Laksa Lubuk Dapur Kayu: A Four-Generation Heritage Spanning 64 Years
By: Rosli Mansor Ahmad Razali
Laksa Lubuk Dapur Kayu (LLDK) is a familiar name to laksa lovers visiting the Royal Town of Kuala Kangsar. Since 1960, its unique and renowned flavours have attracted many, but behind its fame lies a rich history.
Norain Hassan, 33, is the fourth generation to continue the LLDK legacy. The laksa recipe was created by her great-grandmother approximately 64 years ago in Kampung Talang, Kuala Kangsar.
“At that time, Kampung Talang was popularly known as Kampung Laksa, as laksa was one of the main sources of income for the locals, including my great-grandmother,” she said.
In 1990, the family relocated to Kampung Lubuk Merbau to continue the laksa business alongside her mother.
“Previously, Laksa Lubuk was more commonly known as Laksa Kak Mah, named after my mother, Normah,” she said during an interview with Ipoh Echo/Peraktastic at Kampung Paya, Lubuk Merbau, about 8KM from Kuala Kangsar.
The uniqueness of this heritage laksa lies in its traditional preparation methods, including the use of a wood-fired stove.
“Wheat flour and water are the basic ingredients for our laksa. We don’t use preservatives, which is why it must be enjoyed fresh. We produce laksa daily to ensure top quality,” explained Norain.
The laksa dough is processed using a ‘kebuk’ (mould) made of brass. The manually mixed dough is placed into the mould and turned 16 times. The laksa then drops into boiling water heated over a wood fire.
“We use a brass mould because the texture of the laksa produced this way is different from machine-made ones,” she added.
The laksa gravy is also traditionally cooked using a wood-fired stove, combining several types of seafish. The smoky aroma from the wood fire adds a distinctive flavour that customers love.
“On weekends and public holidays, we sell up to 60 kilograms of laksa, which amounts to more than 1,000 bowls,” she said.
The price of laksa starts at RM4.00 for a small bowl and RM6.00 for a large bowl, with an additional RM1.00 for a boiled egg.
LLDK operates daily except Tuesdays, from 10:30 AM to 6:00 PM. For inquiries or orders, contact 017 498 3892.
