Herlira Cahay Ningsih, fondly known as Lira, is a passionate Balinese chef and the owner of Sanur Cooking Class in Bali. With over a decade of experience, Lira specializes in authentic Indonesian and Balinese cuisine, blending traditional techniques with a touch of modern flair. Her culinary journey is deeply rooted in her love for sharing the rich flavors and cultural heritage of Indonesia with food enthusiasts from around the world. Lira's classes are designed to be a hands-on, immersive experience, where guests not only learn to cook but also discover the stories behind each dish.
Lira's inspiration to establish Sanur Cooking Class came from her deep love for Indonesian culture and a desire to share its rich culinary traditions with the world. Growing up in a family where food was at the heart of every celebration, she learned the secrets of authentic Indonesian cooking from her mother and grandmother. Seeing the joy her dishes brought to friends and family, Lira envisioned creating a space where visitors could experience the magic of Balinese cuisine first-hand. Her cooking school combines her passion for teaching with her dream of preserving and promoting Indonesia's vibrant food heritage.
Lira's happiness from teaching comes from seeing the joy and excitement on her students' faces as they master the art of Indonesian cooking. She finds fulfilment in sharing her culture and traditions, knowing that her students will carry a piece of Bali with them through the dishes they learn to create. For Lira, the greatest reward is witnessing the connections formed over food and the pride her students feel in crafting authentic Indonesian meals.
Lira carefully selects her menu based on authenticity, seasonality, and guest preferences. She ensures each dish reflects the rich culinary heritage of Bali and Indonesia, incorporating traditional techniques and locally sourced ingredients. The menu is designed to balance savory with sweet flavors and includes popular classics alongside lesser-known gems. Most importantly, Lira chooses recipes that use ingredients commonly available in her guests' home countries, ensuring they can easily recreate the dishes and share the essence of Indonesian cuisine wherever they are.
Lira enjoys the creativity and connection that cooking brings. For her, it's not just about preparing a meal but about telling a story and preserving cultural traditions through flavors and techniques. She finds joy in experimenting with ingredients to create dishes that delight the senses and bring people together. The most rewarding part is seeing the happiness her food brings to others and knowing it has the power to create lasting memories.
"If you have any special requests, feel free to let us know! Our motto is simple: If we can eat it, we can cook it! We love creating dishes that cater to your preferences and make your cooking experience truly unforgettable."
