Bunga Kantan/Ginger Torch Bud Pineapple Cucumber Salad

Don’t you agree that cooking is all about inventing your own recipes rather than desperately trying to replicate others'? This is my cooking philosophy. Why, you ask? I believe in using up the ingredients I have instead of letting them go to waste. Whether it's fresh produce I've grown or items from the fridge, it's crucial to use them wisely. By doing so, you not only reduce waste but also let your creativity shine as you craft your own unique dishes.

 

How about a raw salad? It's convenient and saves time - just prepare the ingredients, then toss and stir. However, remember that raw salads should be eaten immediately. Otherwise, they lose their crunchiness and freshness, and won't look as appealing.

Siem Reap, Cambodia: Exploring Heritage and Human Stories

After a jam-packed day yesterday (Angkor Wat), waking up this morning felt like a bit of a challenge. But hey, that's the life of a traveler (Ho Chi Minh City). When you're on a tour, there's a schedule to stick to, and breakfast is usually a window from 7:30 to 9:00 a.m. By 9:00 a.m., you better be packed and ready to hit the road for some sightseeing!

Our first stop today was Artisan d’Angkor, and let me tell you, it was something special. This place is all about giving back, providing support and training for underprivileged youth. Stepping into the workshop, we watched these talented individuals honing their craft with such focus and dedication. Despite our attempts in making eye contact with them, they were totally immersed in their work. Still, the experience left us in awe of their skills. After the workshop, we explored the shop, filled with handmade treasures. Sure, the prices were a bit higher than what you'd find elsewhere, but knowing that our purchases were making a difference made it all worthwhile.

Malaysian Sodhi (Indian Coconut Milk Stew)

(Updated Version)

Ever heard of a golden-hued coconut milk stew? For the Indian community in Malaysia, it's known as sodhi, a creamy, comforting dish with a rich coconut base. Interestingly, the Malay community also has a similar dish, masak lemak, though each has its distinct twist. But today, we’re diving into the world of sodhi - a dish that’s as simple as it is flavorful.

Sodhi Vegetarian Thali Set
In the picture above, you probably noticed a full vegetarian thali set featuring:
Cauliflower Sodhi
Onion Raita (No-cook Indian yogurt salad)
Potato Sambal
Beans Garlic Stir Fry
Cauliflower Turmeric
Sawi Stir-fried with Coconut
Crispy Fried Curry Leaves in Ghee
Fried Yogurt Chili (Moor Milagai)
Indian Lemon Pickle
Rice

Tasty Vegetarian Recipes: Vegetarian Mutton

Ladies and gentlemen, let’s talk about vegetarian mutton. This isn’t your typical mock or meatless product; it’s made from mushrooms and mushroom stalks. It's a healthier alternative to many mock meats that often contain artificial flavoring and coloring. When purchasing vegetarian mutton, be sure to check the label for ingredients that specify it is made from mushrooms.

I find vegetarian mutton to be a delightful option, although I don't consume it regularly to avoid overindulging. Remember, moderation is key to a healthy diet. In this post, I’ll share five effortless recipes featuring vegetarian mutton, all made from pantry-friendly ingredients.

Pucuk Ubi Masak Lemak (Tapioca leaf In Coconut Gravy)

(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 little corner of the world, Nava’s Zen, we’ve created a lush urban oasis, where veggies flourish. Okay, not all vegetables, but certainly the ones that are easy to grow. I’m all about keeping it old-school, growing the things people used to plant way before the city turned into the bustling, concrete jungle it is today.

 

I’ve got a pretty exciting lineup in my garden: tapioca (or ubi kayu), some vibrant purple sweet potatoes (keledek), and even keladi, the purple elephant yam and also the bigger, beautiful purple kind. On top of that, I grow fresh turmeric, chillies, lemongrass, galangal, and all the aromatic herbs essential for the rich flavors of Malay cuisine. And yes, I'm a huge fan of Malay food (MALAY CHICKEN RECIPES: TEMPTING VARIETIES).

Angkor Wat, Cambodia: Unearthing Timeless Treasures

Off to Cambodia, there's one place you can't miss: Angkor Wat. The excitement builds, even the night before, fresh from HO CHI MINH CITY. I couldn't sleep; I was eager for morning to come. Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the world's most famous landmarks. Our journey began with getting our passes, with choices from a day to a week of exploration. We chose a day. Walking into Angkor Wat (AYUTTHAYA ESCAPADE), we followed a dusty road lined with towering stone pillars and sculptures. The temple's grandeur unfolded before us as we explored every corner (BOROBUDUR ETERNAL LEGEND & SURAKARTA HEARBEAT).

Trust me, navigating Angkor Wat is a breeze if you follow the signs, allowing you to fully admire and capture its beauty. Continuing inside, you'll stumble upon Angkor Thom, the fortified inner royal city constructed by King Jayavarman VII in the 12th century. There's so much to admire until moving further can literally hold you back. Apart from posing and taking pictures for remembrance, it feels like you're in a lost city all by yourself. Thanks to my tour buddies for helping with my pictures; they were fascinated by my poses. Well, it's just me, but soon they were trying new poses too.

Ikan Balado

(Updated Version)

Ladies and gentlemen, you might be wondering how this Indian Malaysian lady became a small-time shining star in Indonesian cuisine. Well, it all started with my love for local Malay dishes, and along the way, I gradually fell for Indonesian cuisine too. There’s a definite connection between the two, and apart from my trip to Indonesia (YOGYAKARTA TEMPLES & SURAKARTA HEARTBEAT) that deepened my love for their food, I had been cooking Indonesian dishes long before. 

I also picked up cooking tips from Indonesians in Malaysia. When Nava’s Zen was under renovation, I learned even more about Indonesian cooking from the team working on it. The rest, as they say, is history.

Now, onto Ikan Balado and Ikan Balado Hijau/Ijo - the main difference lies in whether you use red chilies or green chilies (Cabe Hijau/Ijo). Indonesians also use jeruk limau (pickled lime), something my late mum used to make as well, similar to the Indian Salted Lime Pickle. Personally, I don’t think it’s a must for Indonesian savory dishes, as you can easily substitute with lime juice (KENTANG INDONESIA & TEMPE OREK).

Kuih Sagu Kukus (Steamed Sago Cake)

Recall our discussion on sago in "EFFORDLESS MALAY DESSERTS"? Let's delve into it again, this time focusing on Kuih Kukus Sago/Steamed Sago Cakes. Despite their delightful flavor, they consistently turned out too sticky. Even after coating them with fresh grated coconut, they clung to fingers, prompting me to serve them in a saucer with a fork, which is actually how the cakes should be served, to prevent spillage and mess on the floor. Baffled by their stickiness, I experimented with various methods: steaming, cooking with water until thick, and chilling. Yet, none resolved the issue.

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: Married Solo Traveler's Insights

Setting off on another Solo Adventure after a few quiet months (CHONBURI & BANGKOK) I packed my bags with excitement bubbling inside. This time, I was off to Vietnam and Cambodia for a 9-day tour. It was just me, joining a group (ROME & COMO) of strangers, but the idea of exploring new places made my heart race. At the airport, the local guide welcomed me, signaling the start of our journey together.

When we landed in Ho Chi Minh City around 2:30 pm, the city's energy hit me like a wave. After settling into my hotel room, I felt eyes on me as I joined the other travelers in the lobby. It was probably because I was the  only solo woman in the group. After freshening up, I was ready to dive into the city. Our guide suggested we check out the Ben Thanh Market, a short walk from our hotel. Despite feeling a bit nervous about wandering alone, I decided to go for it. Along the way, locals smiled cheekily and waved, making me feel welcomed and uneasy as well.

Kerabu Mangga (Mango Salad)

(Updated Version)

Isn’t there something irresistibly enchanting about a raw mango salad, or kerabu mangga as we call it in Bahasa Malaysia? If you ask me, I’m all for sour flavors, and kerabu mangga is the epitome of tangy delight. I’ve sampled various styles, from Thai to different Malay versions, and let me tell you, each one has its charm.

Nava's Zen: Two-Piece Yoga Outfits Challenge Indian Norms

Eight years ago, when I began my yoga practice, I found myself surrounded by mostly Indian yogis, and yes, they love to be known as all sorts of yogis or masters, instead of yoga instructors. They all dressed in faded t-shirts and faded multi-patterned, multi-colored yoga leggings. It seemed like wearing these clothes was just what you did in Indian yoga circles, and as I got more into yoga, I started dressing the same way.

The message was pretty clear: if you're doing yoga with Indians, wear faded stuff. Decency in temples for yoga, is part of respecting places of worship, which as a Hindu I honour. Yet, most stuck to the faded look. Some even resembled as though they are wearing their home clothes (HOME ATTIRE), and coming straight to temple yoga.

Mochakottai Karuvadu Kulumbu (Field Beans Salted Fish Curry)

(Updated Version)

As I reflect on my cooking routine (SOUTH INDIAN STYLE FISH CURRY), one dish stands out time and again - Salted Fish Curry. It's more than just a recipe; it's a staple in my kitchen, a beloved favorite that makes its appearance at least every couple of months. Each time, I experiment with different ingredients, adding a twist to keep it exciting, but the heart of the curry - the core ingredients - remains steadfast. 

You simply can't go wrong with Salted Fish Curry when the fundamentals are in place! Now, let me take you on a journey of flavors as I share my insights into making this soul-satisfying dish, along with a few creative variations. Trust me, it’s more than just cooking - it’s an experience (INDIAN CRAB RASAM: ZEN INSPIRED).

Rangoon Creeper: Cultivating Zen Blooming Bliss

Rangoon Creeper, also known as Combretum Indicum, goes by many names like Drunken Sailor, Akar Dani, Chinese Honeysuckle, and Red Jasmine. It's like a breath of fresh air in Nava's Zen. Can you believe it? Even at 60, I find myself climbing the ladder to prune and trail my Rangoon Creeper. This lovely plant is native to tropical Southeast Asia, especially Burma (now Myanmar), where it got its common name, "Rangoon Creeper," in honor of the former capital, Rangoon, now known as Yangon. I remember when I visited Myanmar about 8 years ago; I didn't even notice any Rangoon Creeper. Maybe I wasn't paying attention, who knows?

Siamese Laksa Lemak

, 

(Updated Version)

I’ve traveled all over Thailand, from Hyathai to Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, over the span of 10 years. It’s been an amazing journey of discovery. Along the way, I indulged in Thai cuisine, picking up cooking tips from every dish I tasted and experienced. My love for Thai food runs deep (THAI GREEN EGG CURRY) - so much so that I had already started cooking Thai dishes long before I set foot in the country.

 

Of course, there were a few hits and misses. Take the Siamese Laksa I had at a small Muslim Thai roadside eatery in Chiang Mai - not the best, to be honest. But hey, that’s part of traveling and tasting all kinds of food, right? It’s about discovering for yourself. And if the food doesn’t meet your expectations, it’s all part of the learning curve. No need to complain, sulk, or belittle the experience - because you can't always expect the best (CHIANG MAI & CHIANG RAI: AN ENRICHING TOUR).

Mee Rebus (Vegetarian)

Mee rebus is a well-loved noodle dish originating from Malaysia and Singapore. Its name, derived from Malay, translates to "boiled noodles." This dish consists of yellow noodles drenched in a flavorful gravy that strikes a delicate balance between sweetness and spice. The gravy is crafted from a blend of ingredients such as sweet potatoes, shrimp paste, dried shrimp, and a medley of spices. 

Common toppings include hard-boiled egg, fried tofu, green onions, bean sprouts, and occasionally crispy shallots. I've had the pleasure of trying various renditions of mee rebus, both from restaurants and street vendors. Interestingly, some of the most satisfying versions I've encountered have been from street vendors, often at a more affordable price. 

Things to Do in Bangkok, Thailand

Calypso Cabaret Show

Returning to my room at the Pathumwan Princess Hotel after a day in Ayutthaya (EXPLORING THE ANCIENT CITY OF THAILAND) I felt the urge to discover more of Bangkok. After all, time was on my side, and this led me to my first-ever cabaret show in my life. In Bangkok, it was the Calypso Cabaret Show, seated among none of the people I knew. It was truly mind-blowing, full of soul, and a lively show. It kept me glued to the stage until it felt like the show flew by very fast. The dazzling colors, captivating performances, and stunning costumes left me enchanted. If you find yourself in Bangkok, experiencing this show is an absolute must—one of the best things to do in Bangkok. 

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

The next morning, it was a different kind of experience. I enjoyed a thrilling long-tail boat ride through Bangkok's nature waterways. What a moment! The soothing ride was truly an escape from the city's hustle and bustle (THINGS TO DO IN LAKE COMO & LUGANO). Arriving at Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, it was so jammed that getting down from the boat took a while, and I was the only Indian amongst the hundreds of older Westerners. Given an hour here, I treated myself to fluffy coconut pancakes and coffee from the boat vendors. As I explored the stalls filled with Thai goods, I couldn’t resist picking up saffron strands as a memento of this vibrant market.

Royal Thai Handicraft Center

Next, we visited the Royal Thai Handicraft Center. No doubt, the craftsmanship was to be admired, but since I’m not really into shopping, I took one quick round, came out, and waited for the rest of the group to arrive.

Phra Pathom Chedi

Hopping back into the coach, we headed to Phra Pathom Chedi in Nakhon Pathom, the largest pagoda in Thailand. It was truly something to admire—the golden Buddha and the breathtaking architecture surrounding this historical site. The grounds also featured a bustling market offering Buddha amulets and delicious Thai treats. However, the hot weather made it really uncomfortable, and the heat literally drained my energy. I spent maybe 20 minutes there before hopping back into the coach.

Rose Garden Riverside

For lunch, this all-paid-for tour took us to the serene Rose Garden Riverside restaurant. Nestled amidst lush greenery, it was an amazing place, facing the lake while tucking into delicious Thai dishes. The food was beautifully plated, and the desserts were unique and outstanding as well. We also had a Thai cultural show, which required us to walk across to the theater. There was a mini museum nestled in the nature, where I spent some time looking and admiring. The show started off promisingly, but after the first 15 minutes, I felt bored, leading to a sleepy afternoon. I couldn’t escape, as leaving would interrupt the Westerners who were all hyped up over the show. So, I stayed put until finally, thank God, the show ended.

Shopping at MBK Mall

The next morning, with a few hours to spare, I walked over to MBK Mall, conveniently located near the Pathumwan Princess Hotel. I was glad I stayed at this hotel because MBK Mall has everything. It’s filled with eateries where I enjoyed some meals and plenty of shopping options, including stalls on the top floor. Although I'm not usually a shopping person, I couldn't resist the sales on Triumph undergarments. They were so much cheaper than buying them in Malaysia, so I made sure to stock up.

 

Final Thoughts

As I packed my belongings and prepared to leave Bangkok, I felt proud that I had spent three days alone in the city—my first-ever solo trip. I made sure to spend my time discovering Bangkok and enjoying the various Thai foods.

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Ms. Nava, a spirited Zen entrepreneur in her 60s, founded Nava's Zen at the vibrant age of 58. With over 22 years as a lecturer, including at Curtin University’s Degree Twinning Program, she dreams of traveling 365 days a year. However, she embarks on her enchanting 'Zen Journeys' whenever her yoga instruction, coaching, and counseling profits allow her to.