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.
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.
In today’s fast-paced world, maintaining mental health can be challenging, especially when constantly surrounded by people. As a yoga coach and counselor, I’ve gathered insights from my experiences with clients and observations during yoga sessions. Here are some best mental health tips to help you stay practical and protect your mental well-being.
One of the joys of traveling for me is tucking into various cuisines. In Sri Lanka (COLOMBO, SRI LANKA) I discovered how spices, coconut milk, coconut oil, and the freshest seafood shape the incredible flavors of their dishes. Through tasting and learning from kind locals, I brought home a slice of Sri Lankan culinary wisdom. Here's to Sri Lankan Fish Curry, or Malu Hodhi (SALTED FISH PINEAPPLE CURRY).
I’m a huge fan of salads - how about you? I enjoy a variety of salads (AVOCADO TOFU SALAD), and Indian salads? They’re refreshing, crunchy, spicy, and tangy. 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).
Roses are among the most beloved flowers worldwide, cherished for their exquisite beauty and enchanting fragrance. I particularly adore red roses for their vibrant hue and natural elegance, though I also grow roses in other colors. While they brighten any garden, growing roses isn't as simple as it may seem. After years of trial and error, I've adapted to cultivating these stunning blooms. Here's how you can grow your own roses, even in challenging climates like Malaysia's (GARDENING TIPS FOR BEGINNERS).
Soil Type
In Malaysia,
clay soil dominates, which isn’t ideal for roses. Clay hardens quickly,
especially in hot weather, resembling rocks that can dry out roots. To counter
this, I dig up the clay, mix in black compost soil, and plant the roses in this
enriched blend. This keeps moisture levels balanced and promotes healthy
growth.
Growing in Pots
Since my garden is reserved for herbs and veggies, I grow roses in pots. For potting, I use black soil mixed with coco peat. Over time, the soil can dry out, so I periodically aerate it using a gardening fork, trim excess roots, and replenish the soil. Proper maintenance ensures water penetrates the soil, nourishing the roots (HOW TO GROW CHILLIES).
Fertilizing
Roses need regular feeding to bloom. I use organic fertilizers every fortnight, adhering to the recommended quantities. Over-fertilizing can harm the plants, so moderation is key.
Patience and
Care
Roses demand time, effort, and a nurturing touch. I dedicate time every fortnight to care for all my plants, including roses, herbs, and veggies. The reward of seeing fresh blooms is incomparable. Indoors, roses add elegance to vases or, in my case, serve as natural hair accessories with their delightful fragrance.
(Ms.
Nava is a dynamic individual in her 60s, leading yoga sessions at Nava's Zen
while also embracing her passion for gardening through Zen Blooming. With
credentials in gardening and extensive experience, she cultivates a serene
environment that reflects her commitment to Zen, inspiring others to find
balance and tranquility in their lives).
Take a whiff of the torch ginger flower and you’ll fall in love with its delicate, sweet, and subtly floral scent, reminiscent of a tropical garden. Even the leaves emit a mild, citrusy, and slightly herbal aroma. Torch ginger, also known as Pokok Kantan, and its vibrant flowers, known as Bunga Kantan, add a beautiful burst of green to any garden. Its simple elegance truly brightens up any space (PANDAN LEAVES: BENEFITS & USES)
Bak Kut Teh - some call it pork ribs soup, others refer to it as pork bone tea, and for people like Ms. Nava, it's Chinese Herbal Pork S...
