Pork Chops Recipe - Chinese Style

(Updated Version)

I love pork to its core. I’m an ardent fan, though I don’t cook it regularly at home since my husband follows a pork-free diet. But when he’s not dining at home, I simply can’t resist the temptation of cooking pork (PORK BELLY WITH SALTED FISH).

 

One of the joys of making pork chops is the convenience. You can marinate the chops in advance, store them in the fridge, and have them ready to cook when needed. You can even freeze them, turning pork chops into an effortless meal option anytime.

Coconut Chicken Curry Recipe - Indian Style

(Updated Version)

Is Indian food Kerala food? Is Kerala cuisine also Indian cuisine? While you ponder, let’s get to the recipe. It’s a Kerala Indian coconut chicken curry (AUTHENTIC INDIAN CHICKEN CURRIES). How can a Kerala chicken curry be complete without coconut milk and a blend of spices for that punchy, spicy, and creamy thick curry with tender chicken pieces? Get your place of rice and a raw salad (BEST INDIAN NO COOK SALADS) and picture pouring Coconut Chicken Curry and enjoying it with your fingers and hands. Oh-Wow! 

The Habits of Unhappy People

(Updated Version)

Whether surprising or not, the percentage of unhappy people has spiraled further over the years. It is becoming increasingly difficult to find individuals who can truly connect - those who share simple moments of joy, laughter, and meaningful conversations. 

Socializing or even being around people these days requires a great deal of caution, as people are hyper-sensitive and crave constant validation about themselves. From our coaching and counseling sessions, we have gathered insights into the habits of unhappy people.

Murungai (Moringa) Potato Curry: Vegetarian Recipe

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.

How To Design A Vegetarian Dinner Party Menu

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. 

        Photo by Rene Asmussen  

Quick Ways to Destress

(Updated Version)

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.

Best Mental Health Tips

(Updated Version)

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.

Sri Lankan Fish Curry/Malu Hodhi Recipe

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.

Best Indian No Cook Salad Recipes

(Updated Version)

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).

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 Rice Recipe

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 Recipes

Effortlessly made in the rice cooker, a versatile kitchen appliance designed for simple and efficient cooking. Beyond just cooking rice, the rice cooker excels at preparing a variety of rice-based dishes like vegetable biryani and pulao. I rely on the rice cooker not only for perfectly cooked, fluffy rice but also for all types of rice dishes.

One of the best features is that you don’t have to worry about the rice being burned or undercooked. When preparing biryani or pulao, using long-grain biryani rice ensures the best results. In the end, both vegetarian biryani and pulao are vibrant, spice-enhanced, and grainy rice dishes that are truly irresistible.