Kuih Buah Melaka

(UPDATED VERSION)

Let me take you on a journey into the world of Kuih Gula Melaka, a delightful Malaysian treat that holds a special spot in my heart. Originating from Melaka (MALACCA FOOD FIESTA), it's also known as Ondeh-Ondeh in some parts of the country. Imagine this - small, sticky rice balls filled with palm sugar syrup, all coated in fragrant grated coconut. It's a heavenly mix of sweetness and texture that always leaves me craving for more.

 

Now, if you're thinking of trying your hand at making Kuih Gula Melaka, let me share some tips I've picked up along the way. It's been a while since I last whipped up a batch, but every time I do, it feels like reconnecting with an old friend. First things first, make sure your dough isn't too sticky - trust me, you don't want a gooey mess on your hands. Wetting your palms can make shaping the balls a breeze. And whatever you do, resist the temptation to stuff too much palm sugar inside. Overdoing it can lead to cracked balls, and nobody wants that. Oh, and don't forget to chop the palm sugar (WAJIK PULUT/GLUTINOUS RICE CAKES) into tiny pieces for maximum sweetness in every bite.

Gobi Manchurian & More: Irresistible Veg Cauliflower Recipes

(Updated Version)

For years, I have been cooking with cauliflower, known as Gobi in Hindi. I’ve used Gobi countless times, creating numerous dishes, from soups and curries to stir-fries. One of my household favorites is Gobi Manchurian, along with Gobi Pakora (batter-coated crispy fried cauliflower). Simply fried cauliflower also makes an appearance in my kitchen, and the list goes on. I recall that during my growing-up years, cauliflower was an expensive and rare vegetable, making infrequent appearances in my mum’s cooking. 

Over time, it has become more affordable, which is why I now frequently buy it. I believe that it’s not the expensive ingredients that make a meal delicious, but rather using affordable ingredients creatively to make a sumptuous zen home meal. Cauliflower can be transformed into a zen dish using Indian spices, creating a nutritious, flavorful, and uplifting meal for the breath, body, mind, and soul (PORTUGUESE VEGETARIAN DEVIL CURRY).

I have several cauliflower recipes to share with you, so you can save this post and not have to search for other Gobi or cauliflower recipes.

Mandarin Orange Recipes: Zen Wellness Cake, Sorbet & Marmalade

(Updated Version)

Every year, those mandarins start rolling in like an unexpected gold rush. You know the drill- people you barely see suddenly become your best friends, just as their surplus of mandarins is about to turn into compost. They play it sly, waiting until they’ve exhausted all other options and then “generously” pass on the citrus burden to you. It’s a guilt trip wrapped in orange peel, hitting all the right notes of “Indian sentiment,” though oddly enough, you’re never on their invite list for Chinese New Year festivities.

 

Ah, cultural quirks in Malaysia! It’s a dance of exchange and expectations. Deepavali might have you knee-deep in preparations and guests, but when it comes to Chinese New Year, you get the oranges and the occasional cookie—no dinner invites or grand feasts for you.

Erectile Dysfunction and Libido in Modern Men: Yoga's Natural Remedy

Author

Ms. Krishnan N, a Zen entrepreneur in her 60s, founded Nava's Zen at 58. With 22 years as a lecturer, including 13 years in the Curtin University of Technology Perth, Australia Degree Twinning Program, she is now a certified yoga instructor, coach, and counselor. Her expertise enriches her current work.

Abstract
Erectile dysfunction (ED) and reduced libido present profound challenges for men, intertwined with complex emotional and physical struggles. This article investigates the transformative role of yoga as a holistic remedy for these conditions, presenting it as a powerful complement to traditional treatments. Yoga offers multifaceted benefits: it enhances blood circulation, alleviates stress, balances hormones, and improves overall physical health, all of which contribute to enhanced sexual performance and libido. Beyond its physical advantages, yoga cultivates a deeper mind-body connection, boosts self-confidence, and fosters emotional well-being.

Asam Laksa Faces: Nyonya, Vegetarian, and Instant Styles

(Updated Version)

Asam Laksa is a beloved Malaysian noodle dish known for its rich, fish-based broth, aromatic herbs, and a variety of fresh toppings. Each bowl is filled with a tangy, spicy soup and garnished with ingredients like sliced pineapple, cucumber, and red onion. We've explored Malacca Nyonya, Penang Nyonya (MALACCA'S FOOD FIESTA), Chinese (PENANG FOOD FINDS), and Malay versions, but the Indian version remains a mystery. Have you stumbled upon it? Let me know if you have.

Prepare the Fish Broth
Ingredients
Fresh sardines or Indian mackerel (kembung)

Exquisite Chinese Prawn Recipes: Tips and Techniques

(Updated Version)

Cooking prawns is a bit of a luxury in my kitchen, something I whip up maybe once a month. The frequency largely depends on the availability of fresh prawns (FRIED FISH WITH SOY SAUCE) at the hypermarket near my home. Unlike some women, particularly Indian women who prefer high-end grocery stores for their cooking ingredients, I’m content with what I can find nearby. I’ve noticed these grocers often buy from the same hypermarket I go to, clean up the produce, and display it more attractively, where they don't mind paying a whole lot more (HONG KONG STYLE WANTON NOODLE SOUP). But I keep that observation to myself.

Here are a few tips and recipes I’d like to share.
Prawn Prep Tips.

Deveining
Use kitchen scissors to make a small slit along the back of the prawn and pull out the vein with a toothpick. You can also do the same for the underside. Even if you skip this step, it’s not harmful, just a matter of preference.

Tam Tim Krob: The Alluring Secrets of Thai Red Rubies

(Updated Version)
From my journeys across Thailand (CHIANG MAI ENRICHING TOUR), I’ve experienced the rich diversity of Thai cuisine, savoring everything from fiery tom yam to tangy salads (TOM YAM TEMPTATION). But one dish that always leaves me craving for more is the delightful Thai dessert, Tam Tim Krob - better known as "Red Rubies." While you can easily find this gem in Thai restaurants in Malaysia, there’s nothing quite like making it yourself, though my first two attempts were anything but disaster. 

Imagine my excitement in Thailand when I tried to recreate the dessert after a local shared some insider tips (BANGKOK SOLO ADVENTURE). I confidently headed back home, but alas, my red rubies crumbled. Not one to give up, I turned to online resources and tried again - only to face yet another failure. It was on my third attempt that I finally cracked the code.

Obesity in Indian Women in Malaysia: Yoga as Holistic Wellness

Author

Ms. Krishnan N, a Zen entrepreneur in her 60s, founded Nava's Zen at 58. With 22 years as a lecturer, including 13 years in the Curtin University of Technology Perth, Australia Degree Twinning Program, she is now a certified yoga instructor, coach, and counselor. Her expertise enriches her current work.

Abstract
This article explores the complex relationship between social media, weight perception, and weight management among Indian women. It examines how social media celebrates body diversity and sometimes downplays the health risks of obesity. The article focuses on the significant role of yoga in promoting mindful weight management and addressing challenges such as self-esteem issues, eating habits, and societal pressures faced by overweight women.

The article underscores yoga’s holistic benefits for weight loss, mental clarity, and overall well-being, advocating for a balanced approach to health that integrates physical exercise with mindful eating practices. The findings suggest that while social media plays a significant role in shaping body image and weight management behaviors, a nuanced understanding of its impact and a comprehensive approach to wellness are crucial for achieving sustainable health outcomes.

Hong Kong-Style Wonton Noodle Soup: Prawn, Chicken & Pork Wanton

(Updated Version)

Why not make Hong Kong Wonton Noodle Soup in your Malaysian kitchen? Who says you can't? Not me - I’ve already shown you can! Here’s a little confession: I’ve never actually been to Hong Kong (SINGAPORE LAKSA MS. NAVA'S VERSION). But isn’t it refreshing to hear someone like Ms. Nava keeping it real in a world full of fakes, especially on social media?

I’ve certainly enjoyed my fair share of Hong Kong-style dishes right here in Malaysia. From devouring Hong Kong Wonton Noodle Soups multiple times to savoring both Prawn and Pork Chee Cheong Fun from local coffee shop stalls, it’s clear that you don’t need to travel to Hong Kong to enjoy authentic flavors (SARAWAK LAKSA CREATIVE FLAIR).

Sri Lankan Carrot Salad: Healthy No-Cook Recipes You’ll Love

(Updated Version)

Sri Lankan cuisine is a symphony of flavors, where spices and fresh coconut - either as creamy coconut milk or raw - play the lead role. During my seven-day trip in Sri Lanka, I was blown away by the vibrant dishes (COLOMBO DISCOVERY & KANDY SRI LANKA). Not a single meal disappointed, and I even picked up a few new recipes along the way, despite being no stranger to Sri Lankan cooking.

These recipes are not just about taste (SRI LANKAN FISH COCONUT MILK CURRY) - they embody healthy, nutritious eating and align perfectly with the much-loved Zen holistic wellness approach, emphasizing mindful eating and balance.