7. Kueh and the Unlikely Dutch Affair

Kueh defies classification. Even kueh experts can't land on a definition. Perhaps that's because kueh has influences from around the world, notably from European colonisers.

After the invasion of Melaka by the Portuguese armada, much of South East Asia faced the firm grip of colonialism. By the 17th Century, the Dutch VOC empire had invaded parts of Indonesia in a violent pursuit to control spice production. But the Malay rulers would soon learn that the enemy of my enemy is my friend.

The kueh of today is a reflection of this colonial past. Kueh-master Christopher Tan (@thewayofkueh) shares some of the most fascinating stories of kueh you will ever hear. He connects the wide-world of South East Asian kuehs with traditions from the Netherlands, Turkey and even the US!

We also hear from Noor Azura, owner of Kuih Keria Antarabangs ...