Hey there, I’m Marvellina!
I’m a self-taught cook, baker, author, and photographer behind What To Cook Today.

I didn’t grow up thinking I’d run a food blog one day! I started cooking out of pure necessity—a new country, limited skills, hungry stomach. But what began as a way to survive turned into something much more: a deep love for food, storytelling, and sharing flavors that connect us to home and culture. What To Cook Today was honored with the SAVEUR Readers’ Choice Blog Award for Most-Inspired Weeknight Dinners in 2017 and has been featured in outlets like Buzzfeed, The Kitchn, HuffPost, and more.

Now, I’m a full-time food blogger based in Minnesota with my hubby and we are raising two amazing kids (ages 11 and 14), who double as my daily taste testers and honest food critics. They’re a big reason I do what I do—I want them to grow up unafraid of bold flavors, connected to their heritage, and curious about food from all cultures.

WHAT I COOK AND BAKE!

I was born and raised in Indonesia, surrounded by vibrant, comforting food. Later, I moved to the U.S. to study (and work as a Registered Dietitian), then spent three amazing years in Singapore—an experience that deeply shaped how I cook and what I love to eat.

What To Cook Today is a collection of recipes inspired by the places I’ve lived, the people I’ve cooked for, and places I have visited—Indonesian, Laos, Cambodia, Singaporean, Malaysian, Myanmar, Thai, The Philippines, Vietnamese, Chinese, Nyonya/Peranakan, and beyond. Some are rooted in tradition, some are simplified to be more accessible, and others are playful Asian fusions made with busy home cooks in mind.

Over the past few years, I’ve also fallen head over heels for baking. From crusty sourdough to delicate cakes and indulgent desserts, it’s become another creative outlet for me. You’ll find plenty of bakes on the blog—many with an Asian twist, whether it’s using familiar ingredients in unexpected ways or reimagining classic flavors through an East-meets-West lens.

Every recipe is tested and tasted in my kitchen—some are instant wins, some take a few rounds to get right, but they’re always tested with care and shared with heart.

The real joy comes from hearing that someone tried a new dish, recreated a taste of home, or baked something they never thought they could. So whether you’re here for nostalgic comfort food, bold Southeast Asian flavors, or a slice of something sweet—I’m so glad you found your way here.

Let’s cook (and bake) something delicious.
— Marvellina