Tutu Kueh* is a traditional steamed snack that is originated in Singapore by Tan Yong Fa, a man from Fujian, who sold the original steamed cakes in the 1930s with no fillings. Influences of the Malay Peninsula led to ground peanut, grated coconut and gula Melaka (palm sugar) being added as filling. The term “Tutu” was derived from the sound made by the steamers that were used to cook these cakes. These cakes are often placed on a pandan leaf to give it more fragrance.

The shape of Tutu Kueh was influenced by Chrysanthemum flowers. The visual traits of a Chrysanthemum symbol is that it is often symmetrical and radial. In Chinese culture, it also represents autumn, longevity and joviality.

 

*Kueh – A term often used to represent a cake or snack

 

 

 

The process of buying Tutu Kueh from stores is often a heartwarming and enticing one, whereby the seller makes the snack right before one’s eyes. The souvenir being packaged is a Tutu Kueh making kit that includes the necessary items to make the steamed snack at home. Through the souvenir, one can also learn about the origin and significance of the snack.

 

The logos are designed with the Chrysanthemum symbol and form of Tutu Kueh in mind, as well as the fact that the name of this snack is an onomatopoeia. The delicate nature of the snack is being represented using Script MT Bold, a script typeface, for the brand.

 

The packaging aims to be sustainable and features a bamboo steamer as the external packaging, making it protective as an external packaging yet functional as part of the souvenir. Pandan leaves, which is an essential component in Tutu Kueh, is used as a decorative aspect for the packaging.

 

The other components of the souvenir make use of kraft paper, hemp twine and glass bottles for the packaging.

 

Bamboo Steamer (External Packaging) X 1
Pandan Roasted Rice Flour – 200g
Tutu Kueh Mould X 1
Tutu Kueh Guide
Cotton Steaming Cloth X 5
Peanut Fillings – 50g