Beware! Sotongpaku Kepong in Taman Perindustrian Kip will get you hooked on its ‘paku’ salad topped with cuttlefish

In a bustling food court of Taman Perindustrian Kip, Win Kee Food Garden houses numerous food stalls, ensuring visitors won't leave hungry. One such stall, Sotongpaku Kepong, has recently returned to its spot at the food court after a 14-year absence. The owner took the time away while living abroad and recently brought the popular snack back to life.

Sotongpaku Kepong specializes in its unique version of the Sotong Kangkung salad, a dish traditionally served as a snack. This particular version features a mound of black and white sesame seeds topping a thick brown sauce, with green vegetables peeking out and golden brown fried crackers dotting the dish. Upon closer inspection, the golden brown fried crackers are actually Chinese crullers, or you tiao.

The dish is generously covered with toasted sesame seeds and ground peanuts, enhancing the flavors. Customers can choose from options such as blanched brown cuttlefish, jellyfish, and baby octopus, each providing a distinct texture. The brown cuttlefish, reconstituted from lye water, is translucent with a slight bite, while the jellyfish offers a crunchier bite that complements the thick sauce and fern shoots. Baby octopus, served whole, provides a firmer bite, although it can become chewy if overcooked.

For added texture, customers can opt for the you tiao topping, an extra RM2 that helps mop up the thick sauce. The omelettes, both oyster and Lala clams, are served with a sweet-sour chilli sauce on the side, further elevating the flavors of the dish. The owner, who operates alone, can either deliver food directly to your table or accept a RM2 self-pickup discount per dish.

Sotongpaku Kepong is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, except on Mondays. The food court is located in Taman Perindustrian Kip, surrounded by apartments and factories. Keep in mind that the stall is fairly new and still hidden within the bustling food court.