Friday, February 11, 2022
Turkish Cucumber Yogurt Salad (Cacik)
Saturday, January 22, 2022
Turkish Saffron Rice (Safranli Pilav)
Tuesday, December 28, 2021
Malaysian Cumin Rice
Monday, November 8, 2021
South African Fish Curry
Tuesday, September 28, 2021
Plant Based Breakfast Platters
Looks
like I'm back in action! After a little break from this cozy corner of mine,
I'm feeling refreshed and ready to sprinkle some culinary magic today. That's
right - it's time to share some zen cooking tales with you all. Ta-da!
Alright, let's get real for a moment. While the URL (nava-k) remains the same (because who needs the hassle of buying a new one, am I right?), this space is now officially known as Nava’s Zen. Why the change, you ask? Well, it's all part of my new journey as I dive into starting my own business. Currently, it's undergoing some renovation and sprucing up, all while expanding my urban gardening efforts under the Nava’s Zen banner. But don't worry, my dear friends, I'm still here to spill the beans on all my culinary secrets.
Wednesday, September 1, 2021
Vegetarian/Plant Based Bak Kut Teh: Veggie Bliss Feast
Those whispers? They came from everywhere - from my mum, my aunts, my in-laws, and even from random encounters. It seemed like everyone had the same script: an Indian woman's destiny is to be married off and become a selfless servant to her husband and kids. But you know what? Over the years, I've learned that I don't have to conform to those outdated notions. I'm breaking free and forging my own path.
Thursday, April 1, 2021
Indonesian Potato Taucu/Kentang Tauchu Indonesia (Vegetarian)
Keeping your culinary journey vibrant and exciting
is key to discovering new flavors that delight your taste buds. While comfort
food holds a special place in our hearts, embracing the diversity of global
cuisines can open up a world of gastronomic pleasure. For me, Indonesian
cuisine (URAP KANGKUNG) stands out as a personal favorite, rich with bold flavors and aromatic
spices that always leave me craving more.
Indonesian cuisine isn't just about meat dishes; it offers a plethora of vegetarian options that are equally satisfying. Take, for instance, Indonesian Potato Tauhu (Kentang Tauchu), a dish that exemplifies this culinary versatility. It's a creation born out of my perpetual quest to innovate in the kitchen, blending potatoes with chili tauhu (fermented soybean paste) to create a dish that's hearty and full of savory goodness.
Wednesday, February 24, 2021
Urap Kangkung (Water Spinach Salad) - Vegetarian
In both Malaysia and Indonesia, kangkung is enjoyed as a raw salad, boiled and paired with sambal belacan. During my time in Indonesia, I discovered Urap Kangkung and brought the idea back to Malaysia, creating my own vegetarian version. This will be the highlight of today's recipe. But don't worry, I'll also share my tried-and-true Kangkung Belacan recipe. Let's kick things off with Urap Kangkung, the vegetarian version (VEGETARIAN BAYAM MASAK LEMAK).
Monday, February 15, 2021
Nava K's Palak Paneer (Spinach Indian Cottage Cheese)
Thanks to global trade, Indian stores around the world offer a variety of paneer options, including those imported from India to places like Malaysia (MUGHAI VEGETARIAN KORMA). This accessibility ensures that no matter where you are, you can still savor the authentic flavors of Palak Paneer with quality ingredients.
Monday, January 25, 2021
Chilli Cashew Stir Fried Veggies
Tuesday, January 5, 2021
Ponnanganni Keerai Poriyal (Sessile Joyweed/Dwarf Copperleaf Stir-Fry)
If you're not familiar with Ponnanganni Keerai, you can see it in the attached video. This green is packed with vitamins and minerals, making it an excellent addition to your diet. It has a mild, earthy taste that doesn't require elaborate cooking methods (MUGHAI VEGETARIAN KORMA). In fact, the simpler, the better, to preserve its natural flavors.
Monday, December 14, 2020
Mughlai Style Vegetarian Korma
Korma, or Kurma, is a beloved dish in the Indian community and has gained popularity far beyond the Indian subcontinent. It's also a favorite in Malaysia, even among the Malay community. Let me not even mention how much Indians love Kurma, whether it's chicken, mutton, or the vegetarian version. Typically, Kurma makes its appearance during festival seasons and wedding functions, rather than as a daily meal, though it does show up occasionally.
Monday, December 7, 2020
Vegetarian Bayam Masak Lemak (Spinach Coconut Stew)
Among the Chinese, more people are becoming vegetarians, and among Indians, it's quite common. For religious occasions or specific days, many Indians choose to be vegetarian as a way to honor their gods. It’s like a trend - one person becomes vegetarian and influences another. There's also a belief that being vegetarian makes you more religious and that you'll go to heaven, unlike Ms. Nava, who humorously says she might head to hell. But? You can decide what to say after the "but" because I’m done talking.
Sunday, October 25, 2020
Sabah (East Malaysia) - Nava K's Discovery (Part 3)
Sunday, October 4, 2020
Sabah (East Malaysia) - Nava K's Discovery (Part 2)
Friday, September 25, 2020
Burmese Masoor Dal. Burmese Dal Gravy.
While exploring the bustling streets, I was drawn to the food stalls. Though my friends were hesitant because the street stalls were not in their best condition, I decided to try a Burmese samosa drenched in a delicious lentil curry. The flavors of that lentil curry lingered in my mind long after, inspiring me to create my own version. Here comes my version of Burmese Masoor Dal/Burmese Dal Curry.
Cantonese Yee Mee: Chinese Style Noodles Simplified
Making Cantonese Yee Mee might seem like a culinary revelation, but it’s actually quite simple. While some may treat cooking as a grand ...
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Let's talk Sodhi - a flavorful Indian coconut stew that's a hit in many households ( RASAM ), including ours! It's like a cousin...
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Growing up in the government quarters of Sungei Besi , just across from the army camp, I've always felt a deep connection to Malay c...
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As I peer into the earthen pot , brimming with the flavorful Mochakottai Karuvadu Kulumbu, my appetite awakens. I must admit, I have a so...