Hello! I’m Little Nonya, and I’m so excited to welcome you to my humble kitchen. Little Nonya is a space where I share the stories, flavors, and heritage of my beloved Peranakan culture. As a young Peranakan lady passionate about our traditions, I created this site to celebrate and preserve the unique blend of Chinese and Malay influences that define our cuisine.
Growing up, I spent countless hours watching my grandmother—whom we affectionately call "Nyonya"—prepare dishes that filled our home with irresistible aromas. The clinking of the mortar and pestle, the fragrant blend of spices, and the colorful ingredients are memories etched in my heart. This site is my way of honoring her legacy and the generations of Nonyas before her who have passed down these recipes through love, care, and, of course, delicious food.
At Little Nonya, I want to share these treasured recipes with you. From the rich, spicy sambal that pairs perfectly with almost anything to the sweet, delicate kueh that brightens up special occasions, each dish tells a story. These are recipes that have been passed down, often without exact measurements, but with plenty of heart. I’ve worked hard to translate these traditional methods into easy-to-follow steps, so you can recreate the magic in your own kitchen—no matter where you are in the world.
This isn’t just about food; it’s about the heritage behind every dish. I’ll be sharing not only the "how" but the "why"—why certain ingredients are essential, why we prepare things a certain way, and why these recipes mean so much to our community. Each recipe comes with cultural notes and personal anecdotes, so you can experience the richness of the Peranakan culture beyond just the flavors.
Little Nonya is more than a recipe site; it’s a living tribute to my heritage. My mission is to make Peranakan cuisine approachable for everyone, regardless of cooking experience. Whether you’re a seasoned chef eager to explore new flavors or someone just starting your culinary journey, I’m here to guide you through every step. I want to bring the warmth of my grandmother’s kitchen into yours and to create a community of food lovers who cherish the stories and traditions behind each dish.
Thank you for being here. Together, let’s keep the Peranakan spirit alive, one recipe, one story, and one delicious meal at a time.
With love,
Little Nonya