Hyderabadi Vegetable Biryani: Spice-Infused Rice Classic

(Updated Version)

Let’s dive into the world of Hyderabadi Biryani. Known for its unique dum cooking method, this dish combines marinated meat and rice, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. You have two varieties: kacchi (raw meat cooked with rice) and pakki (pre-cooked meat and rice layered together). It’s a fusion of Mughlai and local Andhra cuisines, often served with mirchi ka salan and raita for a truly delightful experience.

Now, here’s the truth - I’m not even sure if I’ve ever tasted authentic Hyderabadi Biryani. Plans to visit Hyderabad fell through, but I have enjoyed sensational biryanis in Kochi (KERALA: THE KALEISCOPE 0F EXPERIENCES) and New Delhi (NORTH INDIA: A SOULFUL REVELATION), each region offering its unique twist. At home, we lean towards vegetarian biryanis, paired with mutton curry and raita. My version, Ms. Nava’s Vegetable Hyderabadi Biryani, is cooked in a rice cooker and just as mouthwatering as any traditional biryani.

Easy Prawn Laksa Recipe: A Delicious Noodle Dish

(Updated Version)

Are you intimidated by the thought of making laksa? Please don’t be, and don’t let others tell you it’s difficult. People love to boast, claiming that making laksa is a complex task, but in reality, it’s not.

Here’s a guide to help you out
Varieties of Laksa
As far as Ms. Nava knows, there are two main types: asam laksa (ASAM LAKSA VARIETIES) and curry laksa (SINGAPORE LAKSA: MS. NAVA'S VERSION). Let’s not delve into the versions that have been altered beyond recognition - let’s stick to the basics.

One-Day Dubai Adventure: Must-See Attractions & Desert Safari

One of those unexpected twists turned into an adventure I didn’t see coming. After boarding my flight in Turkey (TURKEY TRAVELGRAM: BEYOND BORDERS), everything seemed ready to go, but the plane decided to stay grounded for almost an hour. Passengers scratched their heads as vague announcements about “technical hiccups” left us wondering when we’d finally take off. Two hours later, we were airborne, but by the time we landed in Dubai, my connecting flight to KLIA had already left - oh dear! With nothing to do but wait, I learned the next flight wouldn’t be until the same time the next day.

Here’s where the plot thickens! The airline sorted out a one-day stay at the Copthorne Hotel Dubai, complete with three meals to keep us fueled. While waiting for the room allocation, I made friends with the rest of the passengers, and with a tour agent in sight, we inquired about tours and agreed on a half-day Dubai city tour. We also booked the famed Sunset Desert Safari for later. Sometimes, a travel hiccup can turn into a thrilling adventure - let the journey continue.

Vegetarian Noodle Soup: Chinese Choices and Variations

(Updated Version)

Did you know that soup can nourish not just the body, but also the breath, mind, and soul? This is the essence of Zen cuisine - a mindful way of eating where simplicity and harmony are at the heart of every meal (5 EASY VEGETARIAN RECIPES).

 

There’s something almost magical about a Chinese soup infused with herbs, veggies, and ladled over tender noodles. The flavors blend together in a sensational way. While I’m not strictly vegetarian, I enjoy both meat (like my Chinese Herbal Pork Soup) and meatless meals. Nothing beats the depth of flavor from a homemade vegetable stock, which is key to a truly nourishing bowl.

Foot Creams: Honest Reviews for Dry Skin & Cracked Heels

How are your feet doing? Mine have already become rough, tough, and full of character, with lines and wrinkles forming a natural pattern. Honestly, I don't mind the wrinkling - people rarely notice my feet. Well, maybe they do when I’m conducting yoga sessions, but even then, I embrace the lines and wrinkles. What I do struggle with, though, is the rough, dry skin. At times, I can feel the skin flaking under my fingers. Being an urban gardener and taking care of household chores that involve frequent contact with water makes this almost inevitable.

The real concern for me is if the dry, flaky skin will start peeling and expose raw skin underneath  -  thankfully, that hasn’t happened yet. For some, dry feet can lead to cracked heels, which can be quite painful. Once the cracks deepen, they can bleed, making every step excruciating. Luckily, this hasn’t been my issue, but I’m always mindful of it.

Yoga and Mindfulness for Mental Health: A Healing Journey

Mental health is a crucial topic, often distorted for publicity and social media clout. But what does mental health truly mean? It encompasses how we feel in our minds - whether we are overwhelmed, overthinking, or striving to achieve an ideal state that can still lead to struggles.

In the 21st century, it’s alarming to see rising mental health issues affecting individuals from as young as five to those over seventy. Many of these challenges stem from a relentless pursuit of wealth, fame, and societal validation, heavily influenced by the curated perfection of social media. This trend shows no signs of slowing down.

Biskut Semperit (Kuih Dahlia) - Malaysian Custard Cookies

(Updated Version)

Have you ever tasted the delightful crunch of a Semperit cookie? Whether you call them custard cookies, Biskut Semperit, or Kuih Semperit - also known as Biskut Dahlia or Kuih Dahlia when shaped into a dahlia flower - these cookies evoke nostalgia and celebrate a cherished heritage (EASY EGGLESS VANILLA BUTTER COOKIES). These Malay heritage cookies are beloved for their crumbly texture and attractive appearance. 

They hold a special place in the hearts of those who appreciate them and will never go out of style during festivals, especially during Hari Raya, where they are often served as a treat for guests and enjoyed with family (CHILI CHOCOLATE COOKIES).

Singapore Laksa: Ms. Nava's Version

(Updated Version)

Confession time: This Singapore Laksa might not be the traditional, authentic version. While I’ve tasted what’s labeled as "Singapore Laksa" here and there, I must confess - I’ve never actually been to Singapore. Strange, right? Despite a few plans, none ever materialized, so I’ve yet to taste the famed Singapore Laksa in Singapore.

But here's the thing - I’m a big fan of laksa, whether it’s the curry or asam version. Over the years, I’ve enjoyed them many times and even made several variations of curry laksa myself (HOMEMADE VEGETARIAN CURRY LAKSA, SARAWAK LAKSA & ASAM LAKSA VARIATIONS). After some reading, I realized there’s not much difference between Singapore Laksa and Malaysian Laksa, except that Singapore's version is said to be more lemak (rich and creamy), thanks to the extra coconut milk.

Cempedak Goreng Rangup: Crispy Delight with Black Sesame

Aha! We Malaysians are incredibly familiar with cempedak, and if you’re in Indonesia or Thailand, I’m sure you know exactly which fruit Ms. Nava is referring to! Cempedak is a tropical fruit native to Southeast Asia, closely related to jackfruit but smaller in size. Its outer skin is rough and greenish-brown, while the flesh inside is soft, yellow, and sweet with a distinctive aroma. The texture is creamy, and the flavor is a blend of banana, mango, and durian, making it truly unique.

My Experience with Wardah UV Shield Essential Gel Sunscreen

How many of you actively defend your skin against the sun? It's crucial to acknowledge that indoor lighting, as well as the light from laptops and smartphones, emits rays that can harm your skin. Today, I want to focus specifically on facial skin.

Neglecting to shield your skin from sun exposure and indoor light sources can lead to several adverse consequences:

Accelerated Skin Aging
Prolonged exposure to UV rays can result in fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation.

Increased Risk of Skin Cancers
UV radiation can damage the DNA in skin cells, raising the risk of skin cancers, including melanoma.

Skin Inflammation
The blue light emitted from electronic devices is linked to various skin issues, potentially causing inflammation and contributing to conditions like acne and pigmentation disorders.

Nyonya Lam Mee: Hearty and Nourishing Choice

(Updated Version)

Noodles (MALACCA'S NYONYA FOOD FIESTA) are a delightful culinary experience, offering a welcome break from the routine of rice-based meals. Particularly enjoyable during wet and chilly weather, noodles provide warmth and satisfaction to the palate. Among the various noodle dishes I've explored, my preference often leans toward the soupy varieties. Soups, after all, are not only nourishing but also filling, making them an excellent choice for those mindful of their weight. The key is to opt for soups rich in proteins and loaded with vegetables, steering clear of heavy, calorie-laden options. 

 

When you desire more substance in your meal, incorporating noodles into your soup is a fantastic option. Today, the market offers a wide range of healthier noodle choices, making it easier to align your meals with your wellness goals.

Climate Change and Mental Health: A Call to Action

Author

Ms. Krishnan N, a Zen entrepreneur in her 60s, founded Nava's Zen at the age of 58. With 22 years of experience as a lecturer, including 13 years in the Curtin University of Technology Perth, Australia Degree Twinning Program, she is now a certified yoga instructor, coach, and counselor. Her vast expertise enriches her current work, where she blends wellness practices with personal development. She is also the urban gardener of Nava's Zen, passionately incorporating sustainable living principles into her holistic lifestyle and business approach.

Abstract
This article explores the multifaceted impacts of climate change, emphasizing the interconnectedness of individual actions, leadership accountability, and mental health repercussions. It highlights the significant role of food choices in exacerbating climate issues, particularly the wastefulness associated with leftover consumption and the environmental toll of processed foods and single-use plastics. Additionally, the article scrutinizes the effectiveness of leaders and politicians in promoting sustainable practices, questioning their commitment amidst lavish lifestyles that contradict their public advocacy.

Authentic Indian Masala Chicken Curries & Dry Recipes

(Updated Version)

Making masala chicken curry is absolutely doable! Don’t let anyone convince you otherwise. Even if your first attempt isn’t perfect, remember that cooking is about learning from mistakes. Here’s a dose of encouragement: You’ve got this!.

 

Here’s What to Keep in Mind

Masala Basics

Masala means curry paste or spice mix. It sounds fancy, but it’s quite simple.

Types of Masalas

Different masalas create unique flavors. Experiment with them to find your favorites.

Homemade Vegetarian Curry Laksa & Curry Mee - Malaysian Style

There’s always a delightful vegetarian dish emerging from Ms. Nava’s kitchen (EASIEST MALAYSIAN VEGETARIAN NASI LEMAK). Today, we have the renowned Malaysian Curry Laksa, also known as Curry Mee. You might be wondering what the difference is between Curry Laksa and Curry Mee. To me, it’s quite simple: both are essentially the same dish. Curry Mee typically refers to the type of noodles used, namely the yellow or egg noodles. Additionally, there are various styles and regional variations to explore.

I’ve also prepared a Thai-style Vegetarian Curry Laksa, which you can find in my recipe for Siamese Laksa. Moreover, I’m including a recipe for Vegetarian Curry Mee that I created quite a while back; it remains a favorite and is definitely worth a try. 

Easy Tips for Growing Spring Onions in Urban Gardens

Spring onions are known by different names around the world - green onions, scallions, bunching onions, or Welsh onions. In Malaysia, we commonly refer to the green stalks that sprout from onions or shallots as spring onions. I only discovered they’re also called scallions after using the term "spring onions" and finding out they go by both names. Regardless of what you call them, did you know how easy it is to grow spring onions?

Repurposing Shallots and Onions for Growing Spring Onions

Never throw away onions or shallots that are no longer suitable for cooking or are about to spoil. These can easily be repurposed to grow spring onions. That’s exactly how I grow mine.

Easy Vanilla Butter Cookies

(Updated Version)

Indulge in the bliss of homemade cookies that are not only soft, buttery, and vanilla-scented but also incredibly easy to make with pantry-friendly ingredients. These delightful treats aren’t just for festive occasions; they’re perfect for any day when you crave something sweet. Your kids will adore every melt-in-the-mouth bite (INDULGENT CHEESECAKE RECIPES).

What’s more, these cookies are eggless and require minimal effort - just a handful of ingredients. When choosing your vanilla essence, invest in high-quality options rather than synthetic ones to truly elevate the flavor and aroma of your cookies. This recipe highlights purity and taste while keeping health in mind for both kids and adults. Forget fancy cookie cutters; a simple fork will do the trick, just like with the CHILLI CHOCOLATE COOKIES. Plus, a basic hand mixer will save you time and energy in the baking process. Enjoy the simple pleasure of making these scrumptious cookies.