Portuguese Vegetable Pickle/Achar: A Flavorful Delight from Tradition

In 2020, I whipped up this Portuguese vegetable pickle, or achar, as some may call it. This isn't my first rodeo with it - I've made it a couple of times before. You might be wondering why I'm only sharing it now. Well, the idea struck me as I was browsing through our YouTube channel. I thought, "Why not feature it as part of our Zen Cuisine?" Plus, not everyone prefers video recipes; some prefer the written words. 

Named as vegetable pickle, I've experimented with various veggies like carrots, cabbage, long beans, fresh beans, and even ginger. But after a couple of tries, I've settled on just green chilies, shallots, and garlic because these are what we tend to prefer, not the vegetables. That's what you'll find in the final product.

Verona, Italy - Things to Do and Must-See Spots

As the days dwindled down to just two left in Italy (VENICE IN A DAY), a feeling of reluctance settled in (MUST SEE LANDMARKS IN ROME). How I wished our tour could stretch on indefinitely, allowing us to bask in the beauty of this enchanting country a little while longer. But alas, reality beckoned, and we had to prepare for our return to the daily grind.  

Our next destination: Verona. By 9:00 am, we found ourselves standing before the majestic Adige River, its clean waters flowing serenely beneath our gaze. The sight was a balm to our senses, soothing our souls as we took in the natural wonder of the surrounding hills and bridges that dotted the landscape.

Easy Bread Pudding Recipe: Vegetarian

Bread isn’t just a staple in my kitchen; it’s a cherished ingredient! Whether it’s the star of our light dinners or a perfect companion to savory curries, bread brings simple joy to our meals. But what about those leftover slices? Instead of tossing them out, why not transform them into something delicious?

Enter the delightful vegetarian bread pudding! With minimal effort and simple ingredients like canned peaches and raisins, you can create a mouthwatering dessert that’s both satisfying and guilt-free. Raisins add natural sweetness along with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making this a healthy treat. Plus, you control the sweetness - use the syrup from the can or skip it for a lighter version.

Venice in a Day

Amidst the hustle and bustle (EXPLORE THE LEANING TOWER OF PISA), we waited patiently to disembark from the boat and explore Venice on foot. Even with the chaos around us, I was excited to see what Venice had to offer. It was a busy Sunday, and navigating through the crowds in peak summer was a bit of a challenge. There were rules in place to manage the flow of people, allowing only a certain number to walk together to avoid congestion.

We followed our tour guide, trusting him to lead us through the winding streets and alleys. Our “Day in Venice” adventure started at Piazza San Marco, also known as St. Mark’s Square. We looked up at St. Mark’s Church, the tall Campanile Bell Tower, and the impressive Doge’s Palace. We could only admire these landmarks from the outside, but their beauty was clear (PRETORIA SOUTH AFRICA). The square was full of life, with shops, stalls, and cafes all around, giving us a taste of Venetian life.

Gerai Signature (Kota Kemuning): Zen Dining Insights

Reflecting on my past as a blogger, approximately 7 years ago, invitations to private or group dining experiences were anything but straightforward. The portrayal of a zen dining experience often concealed the truthfulness of such reviews. Bloggers were given scripts and instructed to adhere strictly to them, mandating praise regardless of authenticity. These bloggers, now overtaken by so-called social media influencers, were sought after for their ability to craft beautiful narratives in exchange for complimentary food and products, presenting an idealized picture. 

However, I chose to maintain authenticity in my writing, even if it means receiving no invitations. Why would I need such invitations when I can afford to pay for my own meals? Paying for meals frees you from biased reviews, avoiding all the praise in exchange for free food.

Explore the Leaning Tower of Pisa and More

As the sun set on our day in ROME and also, next in FLORENCE, my anticipation for the next morning's journey to Pisa soared. After all, what could be more captivating than the legendary Leaning Tower of Pisa? With excitement coursing through my veins, we embarked on the scenic route to Pisa, a journey that unfurled over four hours of picturesque landscapes and intriguing encounters. 

As we approached Pisa, the sight of street vendors lining the roads, their vibrant displays beckoning to passersby, caught me off guard. What surprised me even more was the diverse array of faces behind the stalls - foreigners adding their own flair to the city's charm (CHANDIGARH URBAN MARVELS). 

Fried Kembung (Mackerel) With Assam Sauce

Cooking with Fried Kembung (Mackerel) and Assam Sauce evokes a journey of flavors and nostalgia. Have you ever wandered through the bustling wet markets or strolled the aisles of a hypermarket, catching glimpses of the humble boiled kembung? Perhaps you've even taken home this unassuming fish, its potential yet to be unlocked in your kitchen.

 

There's a certain beauty in the simplicity of this dish - a beauty that lies in its uncomplicated nature and the rich flavors it offers. Boiled kembung, or mackerel as Google kindly translates, is a fish steeped in saltwater, readily available at local markets and hypermarkets alike. But before diving into the cooking process, a gentle rinse and thorough pat-dry are essential to maintain the fish's integrity during frying. Careful attention to these details ensures a crisp exterior without sacrificing the tender flesh within.

Find Your Perfect Fit: Women's Sports Sets That Cater to Your Needs

There is no longer any reason to dress in a manner that is inappropriate for gym wear. Modern activewear has a wide selection to choose from that are of various designs that will make the most of your looks and boost your training effort throughout the course. It does not matter whether you plunge for high-intensity interval training (HIIT), you are a yogi dedicatedly or need a brisk walk to feel comfortable, a perfect Cosmolle sports set for women will have a significant impact on your performance and your comfort.

The Classic Combo: Sports Bra & High-Waisted Leggings

The classic two-in-one still registers in many fans` favorites list despite the presence of other more fanciful models. Sports bras offer distinct levels of support, running from low impact for yoga or any light activity to high impact for some heavy-duty workouts like running or jumping. Seek for moisture particularly wicking textiles which keep you cool and dry throughout your exercises.

Top Must-See Attractions in Florence, Italy

Time seemed to evaporate, slipping away unnoticed. In the blink of an eye, mere moments had whisked me away to a realm of tranquility, a fleeting Zen-like experience. My soul hungered for a deeper immersion in the wonders of  MUST SEE LANDMARKS IN ROME, ITALY, knowing full well that there were myriad treasures yet to uncover. Alas, such aspirations felt like mere fantasies, particularly amidst the constraints of a guided tour. But as one chapter closed, another beckoned with the promise of new adventures (HOKKAIDO WINTER WANDERLUST) and so we set our sights on Florence.

Easy, Simple, and Quick Egg Recipes

When it comes to cooking, lengthy dishes with extra ingredients can be overwhelming (THAI GREEN EGG CURRY). However, simple and easy meals are often the best, especially when it comes to egg stir-fry recipes. On hectic days, I start by rummaging through my fridge for ingredients, and eggs are always a staple in my kitchen. The rest depends on what I have on hand, and then I whip up some delightful egg stir-fry recipes. Let’s dive into these quick and easy dishes (EASY VEGETARIAN SALADS).

Must-See Landmarks in Rome, Italy

Thinking back on my travels, there's something truly soul-stirring about those journeys. Traveling has a way of deeply touching your Zen soul, leaving an imprint on every part of your being, including your breath to your body, and mind. Even years later, those moments remain etched in memory (PRETORIA SOUTH AFRICA) & CAPE TOWN SOUTH AFRICA).  

My first overseas trip took me to Italy, a destination cherished by people from all corners of the globe. The excitement of the journey kept me awake on the night flight. Arriving at Rome airport, a sense of anticipation filled me. After a quick refresh in the washroom, our guide led us to the coach to begin our sightseeing adventure, starting with Vatican City (Seoul Through My Eyes). .

Zen Style Chronicles: The Serene Aura of Home Attire

In today's Zen Style spotlight, let's explore the serene world of home attire. Let's start with a simple question: What's your go-to outfit for lounging at home? This seemingly straightforward inquiry often invites introspection. Do you immediately have an answer, or do you pause to reflect?

As for me, comfort reigns supreme: I opt for shorts and a t-shirt, a choice deeply rooted in familiarity and ease. However, memories of my upbringing alongside my late mother remind me that wearing shorts was once frowned upon in our cultural context. Nevertheless, as I've journeyed through life, I've embraced this relaxed attire, a preference that persists even at the age of 59.

Weighty Issues: Challenges in Healthcare Wellness

Two months ago, my husband was hospitalized for dengue fever. During his week-long stay at the medical center, I couldn't help but notice something concerning among the staff - quite a number were overweight or obese. This raised a red flag as even some doctors displayed protruding stomachs and sluggish movements. It's ironic that while doctors advise patients on diet and exercise, they themselves struggle with obesity.

Nava's Zen Unveiled: Beyond Yoga Asanas

As the founder of Nava's Zen (Nature's Melody) and your in-house yoga coach, let me share a bit of my journey with you. For me, yoga isn't just about striking poses or sweating it out on the mat - it's a profound practice that touches every aspect of our being (Menopause & Yoga Discovery).

I've seen many people miss the true essence of yoga, reducing it to nothing more than physical exercise. But let me tell you, it's so much more than that. It's about finding balance in every breath, every movement, every thought, and every emotion.

 

So, if you're expecting a simple workout routine, you might be in for a surprise. Because yoga, my friend, is a journey - a journey that takes you deep within yourself, where you discover strength, flexibility, and resilience you never knew you had (The Power Of Yoga).

KKSV Restaurant: Malaysian Coffeeshop Eating Culture

Formerly recognized as Restoran Poh Yap, this establishment underwent refurbishment a few months ago and now goes by the name KKSV Restaurant. The makeover includes an expanded, air-conditioned dining area. While some familiar stalls, like the Pork Noodles, remain, new additions have also been introduced, creating an exciting blend of the traditional and the novel (Exploring A Kopitiam).

Bay Leaves: Health Benefits and Cooking Uses

(Updated Version)

In Malaysia, bay leaves are somewhat unfamiliar, with many people unsure of their appearance or uses. Some wonder if these are the same leaves used in biryani rice - referring to the dried ones commonly found in stores. It might seem surprising, but bay leaves offer a wealth of health benefits, making them a valuable addition to any pantry (GROWING SPRING ONIONS IN URBAN GARDENS).

Health Benefits of Bay Leaves

Here are some key health benefits of bay leaves: 

Heart Health

Bay leaves help lower bad cholesterol levels and strengthen blood vessels, reducing heart disease risk.