I grew up in a small village in Northern Malaysia, where my father and elders made a living from farming. I went out early and returned late every day, worked hard under the scorching sun. Sometimes it is unavoidable to lose my appetite and hence will not have the strength to work in the field. My mother, Ng Ah Sip, often cooks some sour, sweet, bitter and spicy appetizers for the family on hot days. These home-cooked dishes which was loved by me and my family greatly increase my appetite. Now that my parents have passed on, I have to cook these dishes by myself so that I can savor them.

This Assam Pedas Fish is also my father’s favorite too.