Story behind the cookbook

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NEWLY launched Memorable Recipes for Malay Occasions by Marina Mustafa is more than just a cookbook.

“It is a collection of timeless family recipes that have been passed down from generation to generation. It is a memoir of my family’s history. Every recipe, from the ingredients right down to the preparation and finishing has its own story and relevance in my family,” said Marina.

The cookbook was launched by Puan Sri Norainee Abd Rahman, wife of the Deputy Prime Minister recently.

Marina, who hails from Teluk Intan, Perak, said her book featured dishes for 11 key occasions celebrated by the Malay community, from birth right up to death.

Each recipe is laced with short anecdotes of the traditional beliefs and practices that come with the dish served.

Cook it right: Norainee (right) launching the book by Marina.

She also explains the significance and healing properties of some of the ingredients used.

“Another unique feature of the recipes is the way in which the dishes are made. In those days, our mothers never had the fanciful high-tech kitchenware we are now blessed with. The measuring and cooking utensils too were very simple and basic,” said Marina who has a Business degree from the Edith Cowen University, Perth.

Spurred by her love for cooking, she has worked in the food and hospitality industry both locally and abroad.

She also owned and managed the quaint Café Dania for 14 years, where most of the dishes on the menu were lovingly created and prepared by Marina and her sisters.

When asked what encouraged her to publish the book, Marina smiled and said, “Cooking is a great passion of mine, and I love the feeling of togetherness that comes from everyone sitting around the family dining table enjoying a lovely meal. This is my way of extending that passion.”