S’wak laksa cookies a hit at Lo’s open house
by Marilyn Ten, reporters@theborneopost.com. Posted on January 25, 2012, Wednesday
POPULAR ROLLS: Lo’s decadent swiss rolls (available in a variety of flavours).
KUCHING: While visiting Chinese New Year open houses, it is common to come across goodies like pineapple tarts and barbecued ‘bak kwa’ slices as this celebration would not be complete without a smorgasbord of these festive treats.
However, while many opt to purchase their biscuits or sweet treats, Olive Lo is one of the few in Kuching who serves fresh homemade pastries to her guests.
BIRD COOKIES: A favourite among children is Lo’s Angry Bird cookies and cupcakes.
LAKSA IN A COOKIE: Lo with her homemade Sarawak laksa cookies.
One of the goodies that stood out was her Sarawak laksa cookie, which piqued the interests of many who eagerly had a taste of the unique treat served.
Though conventional in its look, the savoury laksa cookies were aromatic and one bite was all it took for the piquant flavours of laksa spices to fill one’s mouth.
Made with the same Sarawak laksa paste used when cooking the ever-popular local dish, Lo came up with this unusual concoction after hearing of the craving pangs for laksa from many of her friends overseas.
“Whenever my friends from abroad would return home for a visit, they would always buy a few packets of Sarawak laksa paste so that they can satisfy their cravings for laksa when they return.
“So I figured, why not bake some cookies and incorporate laksa paste into them to be taken overseas? That way, whenever the urge to have laksa arises, they can have it anytime they want.”
Coming up with the ideal combination of ingredients for the cookies was fairly easy, said Lo, a passionate baker since the age of 12.
“It is simply combining the right amount of laksa ingredients, which must be prepared from scratch, together with a simple butter cookie mixture,” she added.
Apart from cookies, Lo also bakes a wide range of cakes as well as some of the best savoury pastries in Kuching, all of which are perfect for any occasion.
“The Sarawak laksa cookies make perfect gifts especially for Sarawak laksa lovers and those who prefer savoury treats,” she said.
