Marriage and Culinary Exploration: Vietnamese Delights (Ding Xiang Bak Kut Teh Restaurant)

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.

How to Grow Roses: The Ultimate Guide

(Updated Version)

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).

(These are the rose plants growing in Nava's Zen. You'll see how pruning allows new stems and leaves to grow. However, one of the challenges is the weather. Both too hot and constant heavy rainy seasons can cause the leaves to dry and wither).

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).

Watering
Rainwater works wonders for roses. I position my potted plants where rain can reach them, skipping additional watering during downpours. During dry spells, I water them daily, ensuring they get enough hydration to thrive.

 

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.

Pruning
Pruning is essential after blooms have withered. Removing old branches encourages new growth and keeps the plants thriving. Rooting cuttings in water can also yield new plants, which, once rooted, flourish with proper care.

Handling Thorns
Thorns are an inevitable part of growing roses. Wear gloves to avoid scratches and be cautious as thorns can snag on clothes or pierce deeply. Treat any wounds promptly with antiseptic cream to prevent infection.

Pest Control
Bugs and insects can damage rose leaves and flowers. Organic sprays effectively deter pests without harming the environment. Regular checks keep the plants healthy and beautiful.

 

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.

Growing roses is a fulfilling journey that requires dedication and love. With these steps, you can create your own flourishing rose garden and enjoy the beauty they bring to your life.

 

(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).

The Delights of K2 Kopitiam: A Foodie's Paradise

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.

Bunga Kantan/Torch Ginger: Urban Farming's Culinary Gem

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.

Turmeric Black Cumin Rice - A Health is Wealth Dish

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!

Vegetable Biryani & Pulao: Zen Color & Taste Therapy

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).

Rendang Recipes: Chicken, Goat, Potato & Fish

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..

Lavish Coffee House: A Treat for the Senses

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 Lentil Recipes: 21st Century Wellness

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).

Egg Curry Recipe: Thai Green Curry Style

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?

Signature Tiffins Cafe: Exploring a New Eatery in Bandar Rimbayu (Teluk Panglima Garang)

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.

A Foodie's Journey in Taman Tun Dr Ismail: Unveiling the Culinary Delights of Alora Spices

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.

Curry Leaf Rice: Three Simple Recipes for Zen Wellness

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?).

Simple Anti-Aging Tips

(Updated Version)

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).

A Delicious Evening Delight: Nutz N Boltz Quayside Mall Review

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.