My dharleeeng is already in his 70s, and his food choices are already different from what I remember growing up. He’s no longer fond of spicy and bitter food and drinks. Although he’s never been a picky eater, he still has his preferred ‘taste’. These days, he rarely drinks coffee, and when he does, he usually goes for the 3-in-1 instant ones.
I remembered how he complained about how strong and bitter the black coffee I brewed for him was a few weeks back. I do need to mention though that I like my coffee black and strong—and I totally forgot to dilute his share with some hot water. Even after he added milk and sugar, it was still too much for him.
Now, his love for sweets is something else, though. Hah. That hasn’t changed.
Kisig: is dis only for hoomans, #WHOoman?
And that’s what inspired this sticky, chocolatey treat that is 100% vegan—something soft and chewy for someone who has grown softer over time too. Like his shift away from the bitter notes of life to the simple joys of something sweet, this recipe is a reflection of the kind of person he is now: warm, mellow, and tender with his sweetness, but still strong as ever.
Being an advocate of #mindful eating whilst knowing how he loves his desserts, I made sure to lessen the sugar and swap out ingredients for healthier alternatives. Instead of refined sugar, I used muscovado for its deeper, caramel-like flavor. Dark chocolate brings a touch of indulgence without overwhelming sweetness. Sunflower seeds add crunch and heart-healthy fats, while virgin coconut oil brings that subtle, nutty aroma. A sprinkle of cinnamon warms the palate just like his laughter fills the room.
Velcro Kisig 'sticking' his nose to a treat he can't enjoy.
And then there’s the mochiko flour—the sticky, glutinous rice base that holds it all together. It’s what binds the treat, and also what reminds me of our bond. No matter how life pulls us in different directions, how tastes shift and routines change, we always find our way back to each other. Just like this sticky treat, we stick it out together—my dharleeeng dad and I, through it all.
To all the fathers out there—whether soft-spoken or stern, sweet-toothed or savory-loving—you are the quiet strength in our lives, the gentle anchor in the ever-turning tide. Thank you for the love you give, in all the ways you know how. Happy Father’s Day!
And to my dharleeeng, I love you to the moon and back! The #bhooiz send their #humpinglove too.
Are you buying or making sweet treats for your dad this year?
Tag me—I’d love to drool over your #foodgasmic creations on IG @amreyskitchen!
Use #amreyskitchen, #amapolism, #vegantreats, #healthysnacking, #guiltfreeindulgence, and #fathersday so we can all celebrate together.
Because remember: sharing is loving.
Let’s keep spreading LOVE with Amrey’s Kitchen™ mindfully crafted creations and recipes!
Happy air-frying, lovelies! #mettalove
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