Creating an effective and comfortable home office
requires careful consideration of several key components. With the rise of
remote working, your home office has become more than just a temporary
workspace; it's a place where productivity, comfort, and technology intersect.
Here are six essential elements to consider for enhancing your home office
space.
The cornerstone
of any efficient home office is ergonomic furniture. This includes a chair that
supports your back and promotes good posture, and a desk that is the right
height to prevent strain. An ergonomic setup reduces the risk of work-related
injuries and increases comfort, which can significantly boost productivity. For
those long hours at the desk, consider a chair with adjustable lumbar support
and a desk that allows for both sitting and standing positions. Remember,
comfort in your workspace directly affects your work performance and overall
health.
Occasionally, if not every weekend, "Nava's
Cooking" is set aside for our love-marriage food bonding escapades (K2 Kopitiam, Teluk Panglima Garang). In
this culinary journey, I proudly wear the badge of the passionate foodie,
leading to explore eateries through the dynamic realm of social media
platforms, where the power of digital marketing unfolds its possibilities.
Otherwise, my other half-half tends to steer us towards Indian cuisine (The Grand Mapillai, Sec 23, Shah Alam), relying on recommendations from his "Teh-Tarik
Gang." Interestingly,
my other half-half, not very immersed in social media, leans towards the
simplicity of a WhatsApp family group. I see this preference as a generational
choice for sharing information from social media and digital newsprints,
fostering a belief of being a step ahead or part of an exclusive class in news
sharing - even if, at times, the news happens to be outdated or fake.
My
other half-half has joined me in the exciting pursuit of discovering
new eateries, a refreshing departure from his usual routine of sticking to
familiar places and dishes. The news of his enthusiasm for suggesting
novel dining spots was particularly thrilling, considering his previous
tendency to opt for the same old eateries and stick to familiar dishes, playing
it safe rather than venturing into culinary exploration. I've noticed that
people's dining preferences are often influenced by those they choose to share
meals with. Some tend to shy away from trying new eateries or exploring
unfamiliar dishes unless compelled to by more adventurous companions (Ding Xiang Bak Kut Teh). I've made
it a point to avoid dining with those who limit themselves to predictable and
mundane food choices.
We’ve gotten to know pumpkin, haven’t we? Yes, we
have. (INDIAN PUMPKIN CURRIES). But there’s more to pumpkin than just its culinary uses. Have you ever
stopped to consider the zen wellness benefits pumpkin offers? Beyond its
versatility in the kitchen, pumpkin is a nutritional powerhouse with a range of Zen benefits:
Rich in
Nutrients
Pumpkin is packed with vitamins A, C, and E, which support immune
function, skin health, and vision.
Pumpkin lovers, rejoice. If you're like me, you
can't get enough of this versatile vegetable. I have a soft spot for our local
Malaysian pumpkins, which are not only budget-friendly but also pack a punch in
flavor. I once made the mistake of splurging on a tiny Japanese pumpkin, lured
in by its exotic allure, only to be shocked at the checkout when it cost me
around $15.00. After cooking it, I realized our local pumpkins are just as
delightful, if not better. The lesson? Appreciate and savor local produce - it’s
often more affordable and just as delicious.
Looking back, I’m amazed at the number of
vegetarian potato sambal recipes I’ve managed to retrieve. (DRUMSTICK/MURUNGAI POTATO CURRY). Different styles of
cooking vary, but the core ingredients are:
Chili Paste: Made from dried chillies, red
chillies, or a combination of both, blended. Shallots or Onions Garlic Lime Juice (or tamarind juice; I always prefer lime
juice for potato sambal) Salt Oil
Hi Pork Lovers, Ms. Nava is back with more pork recipes (PORK BELLY WITH SALTED FISH). Many of my
clients often ask if pork is a healthy meat, and here’s my reply: Pork can be a
nutritious addition to a balanced diet, providing high-quality protein and
essential nutrients like B vitamins, zinc, and iron. However, it's important to
choose lean cuts such as pork loin or tenderloin and prepare them using
healthier methods like grilling or baking to reduce fat and calorie intake. Be
cautious with processed pork products like bacon and sausages, which are often
high in sodium and saturated fats. Moderation is key, and balancing pork
consumption with a variety of other protein sources, vegetables, fruits, and
whole grains is essential for overall health.
Of course, not everyone eats pork due to religious
reasons, lack of exposure, or personal preferences. And that’s perfectly fine -
our goal isn’t to change others but to share our love for cooking (MALAYSIAN WILDBOAR CURRY).
I
mostly travel solo, (JAIPUR MAGIC & TAJ MAHAL AGRA) though there have been times I've joined tours with
familiar faces or traveled with a married couple who are older than me. I
prefer solo adventures, whether it's joining group tours in countries with
language barriers or when safety is a concern. I also always sleep alone, even
on tours with people I know or don’t know. This approach has taken me to a good
number of countries, driven by a passion for visiting legendary sites and
tasting diverse foods.
I’m comfortable eating anywhere, from roadside stalls to
upscale restaurants, thanks to a stomach well-acclimated to street food and
having taken my hepatitis vaccinations. My experiences have included falling in
love with Kerala’s cuisine (VALAIPOO/BANANA FLOWER STIR FRY), where I learned to make Kerala Pepper Chicken
Curry, which perfectly captures the essence of my travels (THIRUVANANTHAPURAM UNEXPECTED & KOCHI EXPERIENCES).
In
life, we often come across the decision between two special feelings: inner
peace and happiness. Many like the idea of being at peace within themselves,
staying calm and balanced no matter what's happening outside. For them, inner
peace is like a steady ship in the stormy sea of life. Others, like me, prefer
happiness. They believe it's possible to be happy even without a particular
reason. For them, happiness is like a bright light that shines from within. It
can affect not only them but also everyone around them. It's like a warm,
glowing feeling.
Inner Peace: The Calm Harbor
People who like inner peace find it
comforting. It's like an emotional anchor that keeps them steady. No matter how
crazy the world gets, they feel stable inside. It's all about feeling relaxed
and in harmony with themselves. Inner peace doesn't go away when things get
tough. It's always there to lean on. It's like a friend who stays with you,
even when times are hard (Intriguing Mindfulness).
Murungai, known as drumstick in English and moringa
in health contexts, is highly valued for both its fruits and leaves. In North
India, it's often called sahjan, and in some English-speaking regions, it's
referred to as moringa pods. My love for cooking with murungai is boundless, whether
simmering its fruits in a spicy curry or stir-frying the leaves with dried red
chilies, black mustard seeds, and grated coconut, each dish bursts with flavor
and nutrition.
Moringa is a
powerhouse of health benefits. Its leaves are packed with essential vitamins A,
C, E, calcium, and iron, while its pods are nutrient-dense, supporting bone
health and providing a good source of protein. The incorporation of powerful
spices in today's recipe not only elevates the dish's taste but also enhances
digestion, making it an excellent remedy for digestive discomfort.
Throwing a dinner party is the kind of thing you definitely want to get right, and it’s really something of an art because there’s so much planning and hard work to put into making sure everything goes off smoothly. However, when you get it right, and everyone has a good time, you’ll feel great and proud of what you’ve done, and your guests will have a positive and memorable experience.
If you have a
vegetarian guest, it isn’t always easy to make one dish just for them, and what
could be an easier option is to design an entirely vegetarian menu. Not only
does this make things easier for you, but it’s probably not something your
veggie guest has ever experienced before, so they’ll love it. Plus, if you
choose the right food and cook it well, your other guests will enjoy it too,
and it might even show them what can be done when meat’s off the menu. With
that in mind, here are some tips to help you design a vegetarian menu for your
dinner party.
Stress is unavoidable, but there are quick
ways to tackle it and regain your rhythm without resorting to venting or
complaining. Let’s explore how to manage stress effectively before it takes a
toll on your breath, body, mind, and soul.
Identify Stress
The first step is awareness. Take a moment to sit with a pen and paper, and
write down what’s troubling you. Be honest and genuine - this isn’t about
blaming others but about taking ownership of your stressors.
World Mental Health Day, yet every day
should be dedicated to nurturing our mental well-being. Take a moment to
observe your surroundings, and you'll quickly realize that each one of us,
including myself, requires positive mental health. This awareness is essential
because mental health can encompass both positive and negative aspects. Before
delving into the subject of mental health, consider spending just one minute
silencing your thoughts to listen to yourself. Only through self-listening can
we truly assess our mental well-being. Otherwise, we may find ourselves
preaching about mental health to others without addressing our own needs. It's
paramount to start with self-awareness.
Ms. Nava presents a cherished Sri Lankan dish - Malu Hodhi/fish
curry (MIRIS MALU/SRI LANKAN CLAYPOT FISH CURRY) While she may not be a culinary hero in the traditional sense, her
passion for cooking and dedication to preserving authentic flavors shine
through in every dish she prepares. Cooking is more than just preparing food;
it’s about nourishing the body, mind, and soul. Did you know that the food we
eat plays a significant role in our mental well-being, subtly influencing our
mood and overall health?
Curries, rich
in spices like turmeric, ginger, and chili peppers, offer more than just a
burst of flavor- they’re also believed to support mental well-being. These
spices have long been appreciated for their comforting qualities, making
curries a popular choice for those seeking warmth and balance. When it comes to
fish curry, the benefits are even more pronounced. Fish, especially when
simmered in a spicy, aromatic curry, is known for its nourishing properties,
helping to uplift both mind and body.
In Malaysia, the love for spiciness runs deep in
our culinary culture. Chillies, with their fiery punch, are an essential
ingredient that adds a delightful kick to our dishes or serves as a zesty
accompaniment. As Malaysians, we simply can't imagine our meals without that
familiar spiciness.Whether it's a dash of sliced chillies mixed with
lime juice and soy sauce or vinegar-soaked chillies, the craving for that
distinct heat on our palates is insatiable. Join me as I share my experiences
of seeking chilies abroad, the joys and challenges of gardening them, and the
intrinsic connection between chilies and our well-being.
I’m a huge fan of salads - how about you? I enjoy a
variety of salads (AVOCADO TOFU SALAD), but Indian salads are truly the epitome of Zen Wellness.
They’re refreshing, crunchy, spicy, and tangy - all the qualities that define
Zen Cuisine. While salads, in general, are healthy, Indian salads take it up a
notch. When I used to host gatherings, Indian salads were always a hit because
they’re so easy to prepare: just slice or cut the ingredients, which are both
accessible and affordable. You can prepare them in advance, store them in the
fridge, and serve them chilled or at room temperature. Isn’t that a fantastic
way to entertain, rather than spending hours stir-frying vegetables (ZESTY MALAY OKRA SALAD).
In the journey of marriage, we learn valuable lessons, and one of them is that
you don't always have to compromise on your food preferences. Last Sunday, this
lesson took me on a delightful food venture in Bandar Rimbayu. As my husband
headed to a kopitiam for Indian cuisine (K2 Kopitiam), I found myself at Ding
Xiang Bak Kut Teh Restaurant, craving Vietnamese flavors. This unassuming
eatery, also serving Bak Kut Teh and Chinese dishes, offered a menu right on
the table - a thoughtful touch.
Those
who've been following my social media and blogosphere journey are likely aware
of my deep passion for gardening (The Enchanting World Of Bunga Kantan/Torch Ginger). Gardening is not just a pastime for me; it's
my pride, my joy, and the heart of my fitness sanctuary, Nava's Zen. I have a
special affection for herbs, plants, fruit trees, and, more recently, roses. Initially,
my attempts with roses were less than successful, but I dedicated myself to
mastering the art of rose cultivation. Now, I take pride in the thriving blooms
that grace my garden. Roses, with their exquisite beauty and enchanting
fragrance, have found a special place in my heart.
To
be known as a foodie is to embrace culinary adventures, exploring flavors from
all corners, be it the streets or coffee shops. While high-end restaurants
often steal the limelight, it's essential to remember that delicious food can
be found in unexpected places, such as Chinese coffee shops that have
reinvented themselves as Kopitiams (Malaysia's Vibrant Street Food). In this blog post, we revisit K2 Kopitiam,
located in Bandar Rimbayu, a bustling end-lot coffee shop, where we sampled an
array of tantalizing dishes from its diverse stalls.
Have
you ever caught a whiff of Bunga Kantan, also known as Torch Ginger or Torch
Lily? If you have, you'll know the thrill it brings. And if you haven't, you're
in for a treat. Beyond its enchanting scent, growing this plant is like adding
a vibrant burst of green to your garden. Its simple elegance truly lights up
any space. And when those torch-like blooms start to emerge, it's like
witnessing a whole new level of natural beauty unfold right before your eyes.
As an urban gardener passionate about cultivating local scents, my first
attempt at growing torch ginger didn't quite go as planned. But let me tell
you, the journey is just as enchanting as the destination.
There's a common misconception that rice should be
avoided if you're trying to lose weight. However, that couldn't be further from
the truth! With the right approach, you can still enjoy a small portion of rice
and maintain a balanced diet (Curry Leaf Coconut Oil Rice). Today, I bring you a delicious and wholesome rice
dish that combines the goodness of turmeric and black cumin. This recipe not
only satisfies your taste buds (Malay Style Turmeric Rice) but also contributes to your overall well-being (Blue Pea Rice).
Let's dive into the delightful world of Turmeric Black Cumin Rice!
Zen Color Therapy in cuisine is all about the art
of creating visually stunning dishes that nurture both body and soul. It’s not
just about adding color but about crafting meals that engage the senses,
enhance well-being, and bring joy. By incorporating a variety of colorful
ingredients, you make your dishes not only appetizing but also a feast for the
eyes, elevating both the presentation and the dining experience (HYDERABADI VEGETABLE BIRYANI: SPICE INFUSED).
High-end restaurants understand this, with their
focus on plating that turns food into art. Similarly, when you elevate the
presentation of your meals, you uplift the happiness of everyone who enjoys
them (TURKISH SAFFRON RICE: GOLDEN RICE).
Let’s venture into the world of Rendang, starting with
Malaysian Rendang - a favorite among the Malay community. This rich and flavorful
dish features meat, usually beef or chicken, slow-cooked in coconut milk and a
blend of spices like lemongrass, galangal, turmeric, and chilies. Malaysian
rendang comes in various types, including Rendang Tok from Perak, known for its
darker, richer flavor due to longer cooking times and the addition of kerisik/toasted grated coconut): KERISIK RECIPES. Another type, Rendang Minang, reflects the influence
of the Minangkabau people, with a slightly different preparation and taste.
Personally, I’m most familiar with the classic
rendang, always made with a blend of spices and kerisik - an essential ingredient
for me. Since we don’t eat beef and my husband avoids chicken, I often make
Rendang Kambing (Mutton or Goat Rendang). However, I also prepare Rendang Ayam
(Chicken Rendang) when we have guests, and I’ve experimented with other
variations like Vegetarian Rendang, Rendang Kentang (Potato Rendang), Rendang
Sardine using canned sardines, Rendang Ikan Bawal (Pomfret Fish Rendang), and
even TOFU RENDANG..
Indulge in a culinary journey, for even food enthusiasts
deserve a treat from time to time (Signature Tiffins Cafe). Whether it's to reward ourselves for our
hard work and dedication or simply to savor life's pleasures, treating
ourselves is a nourishment for both the mind and soul (He Ju Kopitiam & Nutz & Boltz). Today, at about 10:15 AM, we found ourselves at Lavish Coffee House (No 16-G, Jalan Eco
Santuari 8/2B, Eco Santuari, Selangor) immersed in its captivating ambiance. The
menu instantly caught our attention, offering a plethora of options to satisfy
our cravings. Among the array of choices, we opted for Ladies
Breakfast Set (RM23.00), which came with a steaming cup of Americano and a
plate of Kampung Fried Rice (RM19.90), alongside a comforting Cafe Latte
(RM9.90).
Spinach is my go-to green - packed with nourishment
and bursting with benefits. It’s no wonder it’s considered a superfood, and I
proudly grow several varieties in Nava’s Zen. Though, I’ll admit, sometimes
it’s tricky to pin down the exact names of each type. But hey, if it’s got
those vibrant red or purple stems, I know it’s Malabar Spinach. Why are so many
types lumped under the Malabar name? Beats me! But one thing’s for sure:
spinach is a must-have in my garden (CURRY LEAF RICE 3 SIMPLE RECIPES).
Now, if you’re
thinking you can’t grow spinach, think again. It’s as simple as grabbing seeds,
tossing them in soil, and giving them a good drink of water. You don’t need to
be a wellness guru or attend gardening seminars to make it happen (BRAZILIAN SPINACH A HIDDEN GEM).
Eggs - they’re the universal culinary treasure,
right? At my house, they’re a staple ingredient, always on standby for those
emergency cooking situations. I mean, who doesn’t love the versatility of eggs?
Countless dishes, endless creativity (THAI GREEN CRAB CURRY & BASIL PEPPER CRAB). But let's get to the basics: how do you
boil your eggs for those perfect recipes? Let me share my trick. I wash them
and pop them into the rice cooker while cooking rice.
Yep, you heard
that right! I’ve boiled up to six eggs at once this way. Once the rice cooker
clicks off, I run the eggs under cold water, so I don’t burn my hands, then
crack and peel. Efficient and energy-saving, right?
Two
weeks ago, a fellow food enthusiast and I embarked on a delightful culinary
adventure in Bandar Rimbayu, uncovering yet another food paradise. As a resident
of Kota Kemuning, I was thrilled to find an expanding dining scene right in our
own backyard. On a leisurely Sunday afternoon, we made our way to Signature
Tiffins Cafe (Blossom Square, 7-G, Jalan Flora 1/4, Bandar Rimbayu, Teluk Panglima Garang, Selangor), a 20-minute drive away, and were pleased to discover that parking
was a breeze. Bandar Rimbayu has truly evolved into a haven for food lovers (Nutz & Boltz, & He Ju Kopitiam) offering us an abundance of new and exciting eateries to explore, including
those in Kota Kemuning.
Usually, my food hunting adventures take place within Kota Kemuning. However, a
week ago, I had the pleasure of venturing into Taman Tun Dr Ismail after a
delightful outing with a dear friend in Bukit Bintang. In search of a
satisfying late lunch, we stumbled upon Alora Spices, an Indian eatery that
instantly captivated us with its inviting ambiance and clean atmosphere. Join
me as I recount the flavorsome experience and delectable dishes that awaited us
at this hidden gem.
In the storm of today's wellness craze, it’s easy
to forget that once upon a time, wellness wasn’t something you chased after - it
was just a part of life. Back then, people were simpler, humbler, and frankly,
more human. Fast forward to the 21st century, and we're all racing for success,
wealth, and achievements, with the daily grind and city traffic serving up
pollution and viruses on a silver platter. Now, instead of wellness being a way
of life, it's become something we scramble for, popping supplements like candy
and treating medicine as food, instead of food as medicine (MALAY HERITAGE TURMERIC RICE).
But for those
of you willing to hit pause, rethink, and maybe even re-look, there's always
the option of simple, homemade wellness. Yes, eating out and ordering in might
seem like the easier route - because who has time to cook, right? But the truth
is, there are plenty of quick and easy dishes that can save the day, especially
if you’re a fan of rice (and let's be honest, who isn't?).
Have you noticed how people seem to be aging faster
these days, even younger ones? So, what exactly is anti-aging? It’s not about
looking 10 years younger than your age but about looking presentable for your
age, aging gracefully, and embracing time with confidence. Anti-aging is about
reflecting your inner and outer beauty as you age, not trying to turn back the
clock.
Here are simple
anti-aging tips to help you maintain a youthful and vibrant appearance:
Eating Habits
Anti-aging
isn’t magic, but it’s all about discipline - especially when it comes to eating.
Drink plenty of water - plain water is best. Include a lot of vegetables, fruits,
lean meats, and opt for steaming or roasting instead of frying. Eat to satisfy
hunger, not for socializing or out of greed. Keeping your eating habits aligned
with anti-aging principles is key. After all, you are what you eat.
Laughter
Therapy Laughter is one
of the best anti-aging therapies. Don’t hold back - let yourself laugh freely.
Watch comedy movies and enjoy lighthearted moments to boost those laughter
hormones. Did you know that laughter acts as a natural face massage? It moves
your facial muscles, stimulates circulation, and infuses your skin with oxygen.
Stay Away from
Unhappy People
For more
laughter therapy, surround yourself with happy, soulful people who keep things
simple, easy, and witty. Positive people are like happy hormones - they uplift
your spirit. On the other hand, stay away from those who complain, criticize,
or are constantly negative. More importantly, avoid people who show off or
flaunt their egos. These individuals can drain your energy and negatively
impact your anti-aging efforts.
Find a Hobby Engage in
meaningful activities that don’t cost a lot of money. Coloring, for example,
can be a surprisingly effective hobby for adults. The act of coloring with
vibrant crayons or paints can boost your mood and, since smiling is part of the
process, it also works as an anti-aging exercise by activating your facial
muscles. Other affordable hobbies like gardening can also help reduce stress
and keep you youthful (GARDENING TIPS FOR BEGINNERS).
Yoga Therapy
Yoga is one of
the best anti-aging therapies out there. It’s not just for blood circulation;
it’s also a mental therapy that works on your mind, body, and soul. Even just
an hour of yoga per week helps pump more oxygen into your system, improves
blood flow, and leaves you looking refreshed - like you’ve had a facial. Yoga
provides you with much-needed "me-time," and feeling relaxed and
rejuvenated reflects positively on both your inner and outer self.
Basic Skin Care Yoga should be
complemented by basic skincare routines. After your yoga session, cleanse your
face, then apply eye cream, moisturizer, and sunscreen. These steps are
essential to your anti-aging regimen and much more effective than piling on
makeup to hide your age. A consistent, simple skincare routine is key to
maintaining healthy, youthful skin. (BASIC SKINCARE TIPS).
Time to Take
Charge
Aging gracefully is about taking control of your well-being and making small,
consistent changes. With these simple anti-aging tips, you’ll enhance your
natural beauty and vitality, one step at a time. It’s time to embrace aging
with confidence and grace.
(Ms. Nava is a Zen
entrepreneur who founded Nava's Zen at 58 and is now in her 60s. She is a
certified yoga instructor, coach, and counselor. With over 22 years of
lecturing experience, including 13 years in the Curtin University Australia
Degree Twinning Program, she shares her passion for Zenfulness through the
small steps we take towards aging gracefully and fostering personal growth).
Last
week, we decided to break our routine Sunday lunch outing and instead opted for
a delightful dinner. Thanks to my accommodating husband for adjusting our
plans, as I had some afternoon commitments to attend to. Being a woman
entrepreneur, sometimes we need to shift priorities and adapt our schedules
accordingly. Our destination for the evening was Nutz N Boltz Quayside Mall,
Telok Panglima Garang. Although it had been around for some time, I hadn't
explored it yet. As a passionate foodie, I felt it was time to personally
experience the flavors and determine if the reviews I had read truly held
merit. After all, tasting and discovering food ourselves allows us to form our
own opinions rather than blindly relying on others' experiences, as our palates
and preferences differ.
Let’s be real - when you’re
craving crab, it’s not just dinner; it’s a full-on event. At home, it’s a rare
but glorious treat, and nothing hits the spot quite like a spicy crab dish.
Trust me, I’ve whipped up a bunch of different crab recipes, but today, it’s
all about Ms. Nava’s Masala Crab. Here’s the thing - eating crab at home versus
a restaurant is like night and day. At home, you can go all out, cracking those
claws with gusto, maybe even throw a leg up on the chair for good measure. It’s
pure, unfiltered crab joy. In restaurants, though? You’re stuck minding your
manners and trying not to embarrass yourself, even if you’re at a casual coffee
shop. Where’s the fun in that?
Discovering
new ingredients is always an exciting journey, and my encounter with Brazilian
spinach, about four years ago, was nothing short of a delightful surprise.
Prior to that, I had never even heard of this leafy green vegetable. Its origin
remained a mystery, intriguing me to delve deeper into its background. Today, I
not only grow Brazilian spinach myself, but also relish its diverse culinary
applications. Join me as we explore this fascinating ingredient and its simple
yet flavorsome Malaysian-style stir-fry recipe.
The
Butterfly Blue Pea flower, also known as Bunga Telang, is incredibly easy to
grow. Just scatter the seeds on the ground or in pots, and they’ll sprout with
little effort. The seeds come in pods, and there are plenty of them. I'm
growing them along the fence in my fitness area, Nava’s Zen, and they thrive
even without much attention.
If you're an urban gardener like me, you should
definitely consider these beautiful flowers. They bloom in stunning shades of
purple or dark blue. No fertilizer is needed; just water them. Plus, these
flowers are packed with antioxidants and offer various health benefits, such as
aiding in weight loss, improving blood sugar control, and enhancing hair and
skin health.
The Butterfly Blue Pea flower is versatile
and has very few side effects, making it a great addition to your diet.
However, it's important to enjoy it in moderation and check for any potential
side effects, as what's good for one person might not work for another.
We
decided to check out a kopitiam, which has become quite popular lately. It
seems that just using the word "kopitiam" in a restaurant's name
attracts customers for different reasons. Kopitiams can be simple coffee shops
serving Malaysian food or fancier places with nice decorations and air
conditioning. The fancier ones may be a bit pricier, but they attract people
with their tasty food and cozy atmosphere. The one we went to was somewhere in
the middle, offering a variety of delicious dishes from both Malaysia and other
countries on their menu.
Lemongrass has a soothing, fresh, and clean
fragrance that combines bright citrus notes with subtle herbal undertones. The
aroma (EASY TIPS FOR GROWING SPRING ONIONS) is a delicate balance of lemony zest with earthy sweetness, enriched by a
hint of green freshness. It’s an invigorating scent that not only calms the
mind but also rejuvenates the spirit, making it one of my favorite fragrances.
At Nava’s Zen, lemongrass is an essential part of our wellness practices,
offering both aromatherapy benefits and culinary versatility (LEMONGRASS RICE).
Okra, known locally as "bendi" in Malay
and sometimes referred to as lady’s finger, is a versatile ingredient in
Malaysian cuisine. It’s often used in curries and stir-fries, which are popular
dishes here. However, Ms. Nava not only grows okra but also highlights it in
traditional Malay recipes (TOFU RENDANG). Growing okra can be a challenge, especially during
heavy rains when the plants don’t survive, requiring her to regrow them. She
leaves a couple of okras on the plant to dry naturally, later harvesting the
seeds for replanting.
Now, let's talk about Malay Okra Salad, or Kerabu
Bendi. One key ingredient is kerisik, which is grated coconut that's dry-fried
or pan-fried and then pounded. Sometimes, I make it from scratch, but for
convenience, I also buy it. I’ve also created Turmeric Kerisik (NASI KUNYIT/TURMERIC RICE), where turmeric
powder is added while frying the coconut, and it can be sprinkled over salads
or used in stir-fries.
As an avid food lover, I may
not claim to be the world's top foodie, but I've had my fair share of dining
experiences both within and outside my country. While traveling abroad, I've
had the pleasure of indulging in various cuisines. I must confess, I'm not a
picky eater and can enjoy a meal anywhere without following strict food rules.
Unlike some self-proclaimed foodies, I embrace all sorts of culinary delights,
except for beef due to my religious beliefs rooted in Hinduism. Although I cook
regularly at home, I often take a break to explore the realm of dining out.
Lately, I've found myself drawn to the fascinating world of street food, which
offers a delightful array of flavors right here in Malaysia.
Ylang-Ylang,
a cherished part of Nava's Zen, is a natural essence that perfectly aligns with
our zen yoga-fitness-oriented nature therapy. As the gardener (Cultivating Convenient Gardening) I, Ms Nava, made sure to
include this plant in my garden from the very beginning. Over time, it has
grown to a substantial height, but I carefully trim it to maintain its size.
The
delightful aspect of ylang-ylang lies in its vibrant yellow flowers and their
captivating scent. To enhance this aromatic experience, I even place some of
the flowers in our rainwater barrel, where they gracefully float and infuse the
water with their enchanting fragrance.
