GEORGE TOWN, October 19 – The aroma of spices and coconut milk filled the air at The Malaysian Kitchen, Penang Marriott Hotel, as guests gathered for an exclusive Cook Like a Chef masterclass led by Chef Elossa Danette, Head Banquet Chef of Aloft Kuala Lumpur Sentral.
The session, part of the Thursday Buffet Dinner series at Sago on Level 2, treated participants to a one-hour culinary journey into the heart of Malaysian comfort food — the iconic Laksa Sarawak. Chef Elossa, known for her creative flair and precision, demonstrated how to balance the rich, creamy laksa gravy with the perfect blend of lemongrass, ginger flower, and homemade laksa paste.
Guests watched in awe as she layered the dish with thin rice vermicelli, shredded chicken, prawns, bean sprouts, and delicate egg omelette strips — each ingredient adding texture and depth. The final touch, a squeeze of calamansi and a spoonful of sambal belacan, elevated the dish with a burst of tangy heat that complemented the creamy broth perfectly.
True to its reputation, the Laksa Sarawak was every bit as indulgent as Anthony Bourdain once described — “the breakfast of the Gods.” Crafted by a Sarawak-born chef, this version rivalled even Kuching’s best, offering a rich, spice-laden soup that lingered beautifully on the palate.
For food lovers seeking an authentic Malaysian experience, The Malaysian Kitchen’s Cook Like a Chef sessions promise a delicious way to learn, savour, and celebrate the art of local cuisine.
