The modern struggle to relax has multifaceted roots:
Wednesday, February 28, 2024
The Modern Struggle: Unravelling the Challenges of Quieting the Mind
Tuesday, February 27, 2024
Delicious Vegetarian Tofu Recipes: Thai to Malay
Tofu has long been a favorite in my household - loved for its versatility, affordability, and ability to satisfy vegetarians, vegans, and even meat lovers. Widely used in Japan and Korea ((KOREA THROUGH MY EYES, HOKKAIDO WANDERLUST & OSAKA SUNSETS). tofu has become a global favorite, with endless possibilities for simple yet satisfying dishes.
Today, tofu is easily available, from traditional markets to high-end stores, offering many varieties. While I appreciate all types, my go-to is the soft, organic Japanese tofu, free of preservatives. Its mild flavor may seem simple, but it’s perfect for absorbing the bold, spicy, tangy, and sweet flavors of Malaysian and Asian cooking.
What makes
these recipes even more special is that many of the ingredients come from my
own garden at Nava’s Zen - chilies, basil, and spring onions that I carefully
grow.
These tofu recipes are healthy, vegetarian, and ideal for anyone looking
for quick, flavorful plant-based meals.
Steam or
microwave tofu until warmed.
Garnish with crushed peanuts, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, chilies, salt, and fresh cilantro.
Lightly fry
sliced tofu until golden and crisp. Set aside.
In a pan, heat
oil and sweat chopped shallots until translucent.
Add chopped
tomato, chili sauce, tomato sauce, a splash of soy sauce, salt, and spring
onion. Cook until the sauce thickens.
Incorporate the fried tofu into the sauce and cook to achieve your desired texture.
Slice tofu and
set aside.
Heat oil in a
pan and sweat chopped garlic and shallots until fragrant.
Stir in dried
chili paste and chopped tomato. Add vinegar and salt, and cook until the
mixture thickens into a sambal.
Add the tofu
slices and cook until the tofu reaches your preferred texture.
Note: Adjust ingredients according to your taste preferences.
Monday, February 26, 2024
Chong Kok Kopitiam: Delightful Heritage Flavors
Tuesday, February 20, 2024
Bharat Spice: Indian Cuisine Flavors and Experiences in Kota Kemuning
Yet another Sunday dedicated to our food explorations, and this time, we stayed local in Kota Kemuning (Asian Fusion Seafood & Kalyana Virunthu Cafe). Our destination was the recently opened "Bharat Spice," a fresh addition that has taken over the space formerly known as Saffron Spice. Surprisingly, not much has changed - the ambiance retains its familiar feel, and even the menu seems to be a recycled version of the one from Saffron Spice.
Sunday, February 18, 2024
Turmeric Eggs: A Holistic Culinary Wellness
Thursday, February 15, 2024
6 Thai Canned Sardine Recipes: Easy and Delicious
Wednesday, February 14, 2024
Roselle: Exploring Health Benefits and Uses
Roselle, a variety of the hibiscus family (Hibiscus sabdariffa), is known by many names worldwide, including Sorelle, Gongura, Karkadeh, and Bissap. Its glossy, bright red bloom is truly eye-catching, but there’s more to Roselle than its looks. This plant is packed with incredible health benefits that make it a popular choice in both traditional and modern wellness practices. Let’s dive into some of Roselle’s top health benefits and versatile uses.
Health Benefits of Roselle
Rich in Antioxidants
Roselle is a powerhouse of antioxidants, particularly vitamin C and
anthocyanins. These antioxidants help reduce oxidative stress and protect cells
from damage caused by free radicals, promoting skin health and overall
wellness.
Sunday, February 11, 2024
Mandarin Orange Recipes: Reviving Leftover Sustainable Eats
Before delving into creative recipes, let's take a moment to consider those around the world who may not have enough to eat. This reminder prompts us to embrace sustainable living, a crucial aspect of sustainable development. As a first step, consider freezing or storing both the leftover dishes and fruits, as I'm about to guide you through some fantastic recipes to make the most of them (MANDARIN ORANGE PLEASURES: WELLNESS CAKE, SORBET & MARMALADE).
Friday, February 9, 2024
Kalyana Virundhu Cafe - Dining Experience
Monday, February 5, 2024
Asian Fusion Seafood Curry House: Noodle Adventures
Thursday, February 1, 2024
Moringa/Drumstick Leaves Stir-Fry Recipe
Tuesday, January 30, 2024
Nava's Zen: Cultivating Green Living in Urban Zen
Monday, January 29, 2024
Manjoe Taiwanese Dumplings (Kota Kemuning): A Rainbow of Colors
Earthy Green Spinach/Chives
Bright Yellow Pumpkin/Signature
Soft Red Beetroot/Spicy Kimchi
Vibrant Blue
Butterfly Peas Flowers/Fresh Prawns
Original/Fresh Fish
Mellow Black Charcoal/Cabbage ...........all
crafting a holistic wellness color allure on my palate.
Saturday, January 27, 2024
Turmeric Fish Recipes: Healthy Fried, Grilled & Wrapped Creations
(Updated Version)
Turmeric, often referred to as the "golden goddess" of the kitchen, is a staple ingredient in mine. How about you? Is this vibrant, golden-yellow spice a regular in your cooking? If not, it's worth considering. I personally use both dried Indian turmeric powder for curries (INDIAN FISH AND SALTED FISH PUMPKIN CURRY), stir-fries, and more, as well as fresh turmeric, known as kunyit hidup in Malay. At Nava's Zen, we even grow fresh turmeric in a large pot. Although some advice me to dry and grind it, I prefer using it fresh, along with its leaves, especially in my Malay dishes, which I prepare frequently.
Friday, January 26, 2024
Radiant Aging: Dignity Through Holistic Wellness
For me personally, yoga has been a profound mentor of mindfulness - revealing my identity, strengths, and weaknesses. It has guided me in recognizing my tribe, influencing how I conduct yoga sessions with mindfulness as a vital component. This heightened awareness has expanded my thinking, becoming an integral part of my journey as I age with dignity.
Monday, January 22, 2024
Versatile Mixed Vegetable Korma: 3 Irresistible Recipes
(Updated Version)
Curious about kurma or korma? Well, you're in for a treat! This rich, creamy curry, made with vegetables or meat and simmered in a fragrant sauce of yogurt, cream, or coconut milk, is a culinary delight. While "kurma" is beloved in South India and Sri Lanka, "korma" has a global fanbase, spanning North India (SHIMLA HIMALAYAN GEM & CHANDIGARH URBAN MARVELS), Pakistan, Bangladesh, and even the UK and Middle East. Each version brings its own regional flair, creating a dish that's both aromatic and universally loved.
Quick and Fast Pizza: Bread Pizza
((Updated Version) Honestly, I’ve never made pizza dough in my entire life. I personally feel it’s not worth the time, but when I hav...
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(Updated Version) Ever heard of a golden-hued coconut milk stew? For the Indian community in Malaysia, it's known as sodhi, a creamy, co...
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(Updated Version) Ever wondered how many urban dwellers are secretly urban gardeners? Well, I’m proud to say I’m one of them. In our lit...
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(Updated Version) As I reflect on my cooking routine ( SOUTH INDIAN STYLE FISH CURRY ), one dish stands out time and again - Salted Fish ...