MELAKA, Dec. 18 -- There's something quietly comforting about watching putu piring being made.

No fuss, no theatrics - just pale little cakes rising from steam, soft as morning fog. Break one open and the interior reveals a molten heart of gula Melaka, dark and rich.

It's amazing how three simple ingredients - freshly grated coconut, rice flour, gula Melaka - and a light touch blend to create a truly peerless putu piring. Simplicity, in the right hands, can feel like artistry.

For many of us, a bite of this brings back memories we didn't realise were stored away. Evenings wandering pasar malam stalls with the family, waiting impatiently for treats that always seemed too hot to handle.

Back then, putu piring was everywhere - ubiquitous...