Kak Nani’s ‘Nian Gao’ Sells Like Hot Cakes in the Lead-up to CNY
A Tradition of Deliciousness
Nian gao, or kuih bakul, is a traditional treat enjoyed during Chinese New Year. In Taman Indera, Kangar, one Malay housewife has been making this sticky sweet delight since 2017. Nani Maslina Sulaiman Najidi, affectionately known as Kak Nani, has perfected her craft after watching videos online.
The Art of Making Nian Gao
Kak Nani’s process of making kuih bakul is not easy. It requires up to 24 hours of cooking, followed by three days of drying the banana leaves to ensure the kuih doesn’t get mouldy. This requires a lot of patience. Thankfully, with years of practice, Kak Nani has made the process smoother.
A Recipe for Success
Each 300g piece of kuih bakul is priced at RM15 and wrapped in banana leaves. Kak Nani also sells the kuih in paper cups, priced at RM11. Her products are in high demand during the festive season, with orders for over 1,200 pieces every Chinese New Year.
A Harmonious Tradition
Kak Nani’s customers include people of all backgrounds, with many buying her kuih bakul as gifts or to serve to visitors during open houses. Her products have also become a symbol of unity among different ethnic groups, with Muslim friends and customers showing appreciation for the traditional Chinese treat.
A Testimonial to Quality
The feedback from customers has been very positive, with Kak Nani sharing a heartwarming story of a customer who ordered her kuih bakul as a gift for his father, who was battling stage-four cancer. This kind of impact has made Kak Nani’s hard work worthwhile.
Delivering Quality
To ensure the quality and freshness of her kuih, Kak Nani uses vacuum packaging for deliveries outside of Perlis. However, she notes that issues such as delays could still lead to the kuih being damaged.
A Legacy of Sharing
Kak Nani is willing to share her kuih-making knowledge and skills with younger generations who are interested in learning to make this Chinese delicacy. Her passion for preserving traditional recipes and techniques is a testament to her dedication to her craft.
Getting in Touch
For more information, follow Kak Nani on Facebook and Instagram, or contact 0111-057 9769.
Conclusion
Kak Nani’s ‘nian gao’ has become a staple during Chinese New Year, with its popularity spreading beyond cultural boundaries. Her dedication to preserving traditional recipes and techniques is an inspiration to many. As the festive season approaches, Kak Nani’s products are sure to fly off the shelves.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is nian gao?
A: Nian gao is a traditional Chinese New Year treat made from glutinous rice flour and often flavored with sesame seeds and sugar.
Q: How do I order Kak Nani’s kuih bakul?
A: Follow Kak Nani on Facebook and Instagram, or contact 0111-057 9769 to place your order.
Q: Can I learn how to make kuih bakul from Kak Nani?
A: Yes, Kak Nani is willing to share her kuih-making knowledge and skills with younger generations who are interested in learning to make this Chinese delicacy.