Early one sunny morning, Lala followed Grandma into the warm, fragrant kitchen, curious about the bowls of colorful ingredients laid out neatly on the table. Today was special — Grandma was going to teach her how to make traditional cakes. Lala’s eyes sparkled with excitement as she washed her hands and tied on a tiny apron, ready for a brand-new experience.
First, Grandma showed her how to soak sticky rice and grind it into soft, smooth flour. Lala carefully poured the water, stirring slowly so nothing spilled. She giggled when a little flour puffed into the air and dusted her nose, making everyone laugh. Next came the coconut milk, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Lala mixed everything together, amazed at how simple ingredients slowly turned into a creamy, fragrant batter.
Then it was time to prepare the fillings. Sweet mung beans were mashed until silky, while pieces of ripe banana were sliced neatly. Lala concentrated hard, holding the spoon tightly and copying Grandma’s gentle movements. Every step felt magical, like she was creating something wonderful with her own hands.
When the batter and fillings were ready, Grandma helped Lala pour the mixture into small leaf-lined molds. The cakes were then placed into a steamer, and soon the kitchen filled with a warm, sweet aroma. Lala waited patiently, peeking inside again and again, unable to hide her excitement. Each minute felt longer than the last.
Finally, the lid was lifted, revealing rows of soft, golden cakes glistening with steam. Lala clapped her hands in delight. After letting them cool, she carefully unwrapped one and took a tiny bite. The cake was tender, rich, and bursting with flavor. Her face lit up instantly, and she happily shared the treats with everyone around her.
By the end of the day, Lala not only learned how to make delicious traditional cakes, but also discovered the joy of patience, teamwork, and family bonding. The sweet taste lingered long after the last bite, leaving behind a memory she would treasure forever.
