Sisterhood,
a Samfu story, snapped by Emma
Our Sisterhood series continues - bringing to you conversations with women that share nostalgia, cultural roots and a creative flair. Let's peek into Emma's world (@iam.chungry) - she tells passionate stories through her food on IG & TikTok - always thoughtful, warm and steeped in memory.
Even though we have not met in person (yet!), Emma has been one of the friendliest and warmest collaborator even in the earlier days of Dear Samfu. Having moved back to Hong Kong in 2024 to be closer to family, her lens helps us remember the flavours we grew up with and the stories we shouldn’t forget.
On a memory with Grandma
Making turnip cake with her over Chinese New Year. She makes enough to give all of her friends family which means we end up buying almost 20 kilos worth of turnips. My grandma’s recipe is famous and I love watching her make it. It’s something I totally took for granted growing up and have learned to appreciate only in the last few years.
On words of wisdom from Grandma
My grandma and I were making sweet sesame soup (a Chinese dessert) and it’s important to keep stirring it gently as it cooks so it doesn’t burn in the bottom of the pot. She says that just like a person, you have to be steady and go with the flow. Don’t push against wind, but to keep moving forward. Leave it to my grandma to turn stirring a pot into something deep and philosophical! :D
On her first ever cookbook
It’s always been a dream of mine to write a cookbook. Ever since I started spending time in the kitchen at 10 years old. It mostly felt like an unreachable dream and I still pinch myself thinking that I actually published a cookbook with my dream publishing house. I started collecting cookbooks as a teen and I’ve always loved cooking and writing about food. Apart from the cookbook being a diary of my love of Hong Kong and its food, it reminds me that even when I’m doubting myself the most, you never know what you can achieve in life until you achieve it.
On her fave food to cook
I love cooking any combination of chicken and rice. Whether it be Chinese- style soy sauce chicken with rice, or a Mexican chicken tinga with tomato rice or an Indian chicken curry with rice. It’s the ultimate comfort food and combo for me.
On an easy Chinese recipe to share
Thank you Emma for always reminding us of the rituals and recipes that shaped who we are.
