Blog Posts

Peranakan cuisine is more than just food — it’s a living story of heritage, blending Chinese, Malay, and Indonesian influences into dishes rich with flavour, symbolism, and history. Discover what makes Nonya cooking truly unique.

Little Nonya wishes everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Thank you for supporting our journey in sharing Peranakan cuisine. We’re excited to bring you more delicious recipes in 2025. Stay safe, cherish the season with your loved ones, and enjoy the joy of cooking and togetherness. 🎄✨

Explore the rich heritage of Peranakan cuisine with four newly added recipes: Pulut Tai Tai: A visually stunning sticky rice cake with blue pea flower hues, served with creamy kaya. Kueh Dadar: Fragrant pandan crepes filled with caramelized coconut, perfect for dessert or tea time. Bakwan Kepiting: A comforting soup with pork, crab, and bamboo shoot meatballs in a flavorful broth. Otak Otak: Smoky, spiced fish cakes grilled to perfection for an irresistible appetizer or snack. Celebrate tradition with these vibrant recipes that bring authentic Southeast Asian flavors to your kitchen!

We’re thrilled to announce that Little Nonya now supports both English and Chinese! This update brings more accessibility and convenience for our community to explore recipes and content in their preferred language.

In this exploration of Peranakan cuisine, we highlight two iconic dishes: Itek Tim (Braised Duck in Sour Soup) and Udang Masak Lemak Nenas (Prawns in Pineapple and Coconut Milk). Itek Tim features tender duck simmered in a tangy, aromatic broth enriched with preserved salted vegetables and spices, making it a comforting dish often served on special occasions. In contrast, Udang Masak Lemak Nenas combines sweet prawns and tangy pineapple in a creamy coconut milk sauce, created with a fragrant spice paste, resulting in a delightful balance of flavors. Both dishes showcase the complexity and richness of Peranakan cuisine, inviting diners to savor their cultural heritage while creating lasting memories around the table.

Little Nonya introduces four new Peranakan recipes: Ayam Buah Keluak, Steam Kueh Lapis, Nonya Laksa, and Babi Pongteh. The site also celebrates Fan Bingbing as Melaka’s new tourism ambassador, bringing international attention to the region's cultural heritage.

In the inaugural blog post of Little Nonya, the author, a young Peranakan woman, warmly welcomes readers to her culinary journey. She shares her deep connection to Peranakan cuisine, highlighting the rich flavors and stories behind traditional recipes passed down through generations. The blog aims to inspire both seasoned cooks and newcomers by offering detailed recipes and insights into the vibrant culture of the Peranakan people. Readers are invited to explore not only delicious dishes but also the heritage and techniques that make this cuisine unique. Join Little Nonya in celebrating the joy of cooking and the cherished traditions of her upbringing.