Cover Photo: My Asian Kitchen
Photo: My Asian Kitchen
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Have you ever tried century egg or durian kaya?
Kaya or coconut jam is typically made from slow cooking coconut, eggs and sugar with or without the addition of pandan, depending on whether one is making Nyonya- or Hainanese-style kaya. Often slathered on crustless white toast with butter or served with Pulut Tai Tai kuih, kaya is an all-time Malaysian favourite.
Whether you like yours smooth or lumpy, prefer traditional renditions or want to try modernised versions, we’ve rounded up five brands selling all kinds of kaya in the Klang Valley.
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1. My Asian Kitchen
Above Photo: My Asian Kitchen
Above Photo: My Asian Kitchen
Photo: My Asian Kitchen
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Dinesh Rao documents his take on nostalgic Malaysian dishes through aesthetic food photography on Instagram. In doing so, Rao aims to remind people of the simple pleasures in life, such as his sought-after lumpy kaya, which he has always preferred to its smooth counterpart. Though he typically makes kaya to accompany his kuih, Rao occasionally sells his extra lumpy kaya due to popular demand.
To Order
Send @myasiankitchen a direct message on Instagram
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Rao's innovative mix kuih boxes are also a must-try.
2. Eat and Cook
Above Photo: Eat and Cook
Above Photo: Katelyn Tan
Photo: Eat and Cook
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Eat and Cook, which serves omakase-style creative cuisine, celebrates local ingredients through a one-of-a-kind menu—each course is represented by an illustrated icon. Available in the dessert section of their delivery menu is their century egg kaya, inspired by chef-patron Lee Zhe Xi’s love of century eggs. Unique ingredients such as duck egg yolk and gula Melaka are also included in Lee's spin on the local classic, which is lusciously smooth.
To Order
WhatsApp +6018-918 3409
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We personally love the century egg kaya paired with Lee's mandarin skin brioche, also featured on Eat and Cook’s delivery menu.
3. MOKi Foods
Founded by Josephine Mok in June 2020, MOKi Foods’ traditional Hainanese kaya recipe has been in her family for generations. Originating with her late grandfather who worked as a chef in a coffee shop after coming from Hainan to Port Dickson, the recipe was later taught to Mok’s mother who grew up learning to make kaya. Each batch of handcrafted kaya takes a laborious six to nine hours to make and has reduced sugar content.
To Order
WhatsApp +6014-977 0709
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MOKi Foods’ Kaya can also be purchased in grocers such as Qra, BilaBila Mart, Groove Grocer and Common Grocer.
Related: 6 Reasons We Love Qra, A New Premium Supermarket Chain
4. Baba Beng
Above Photo: Baba Beng
Above Photo: Baba Beng
Photo: Baba Beng
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Baba Beng offers authentic Melaka Nyonya kaya, made using a recipe handed down for generations. Rich and thick, the kaya is made with kampung eggs, coconut milk and pandan leaves. Also available is a durian kaya made with aromatic D24 durian pulp, however stocks are seasonal. Both of Baba Beng's spreads contain less sugar and are free of preservatives and artificial colouring.
To Order
WhatsApp +6012-288 7449
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5. Yin's Sourdough Bakery
Above Photo: Yin's Sourdough Bakery
Photo: Yin's Sourdough Bakery
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Yin’s Sourdough Bakery was founded by Chan Su Yin, who started experimenting with sourdough baking after learning about its health benefits. Making kaya has always come naturally, as her family used to run a coffee shop in Ipoh. Slow cooked and stirred for over six hours, Chan’s kaya recipe comes from her grandfather and is made with freshly squeezed coconut milk, pandan leaves, free range eggs and brown sugar.
To Order
Visit Yin's Sourdough Bakery's website
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About
Katelyn is the dining and travel editor of Malaysia and Indonesia. Based in Kuala Lumpur, she offers readers an inside look at the movers and shakers in Asia’s growing food and beverage industry.
