Saturday, May 20, 2023

Long Beans Stir Fry Recipes - Chinese Style

1-inch sliced long beans stir-fried with Szechuan peppercorns, dried red chillies, garlic, sesame oil, soy sauce & salt.
The versatile and affordable long beans can be transformed into various dishes - ranging from stir fries to soups or curries. However, nothing beats the simplicity of cooking long beans as a stir-fried dish. Trust me, a long bean stir fry as a pure vegetarian option is absolutely delightful (CHINESE CHILLI CASHEW VEGGIE STIR FRY VEGETARIAN)

Whether you prefer them cooked to a crunchy texture or soft bites, it works beautifully. Especially when stir-fried with common kitchen staples, these effortless, quick dishes are a winner. Ready to dive into the recipes? Not just one, but three easy and delicious options for you (PICKLED RED CABBAGE VEGETARIAN). 

Saturday, May 13, 2023

Malaysian Wildboar Curry/Kattu Pandi Kulambu

An Indian thick, aromatic, and spicy wild boar curry made with a mix of spices and scented with curry leaves.
(Updated Version)

Pork and wild boar are my favorites, but the same can't be said for my hub - another Indian who was never exposed to eating these meats. However, he doesn’t stop me from enjoying them. I cook these two meats every now (PORK CHOPS CHINESE STYLE) and then or get my fix when dining out. 

And when it comes to wild boar, can you imagine a spicy curry with tender meat pieces clinging to the fats? Ohhhh! Truly a food revelation - you just can’t get enough (PORK BELLY WITH SALTED FISH). But wait, cherish the balance of the curry, as I’ll share what to do with it.

Wednesday, May 10, 2023

Pickled Red Cabbage Recipe

Thinly sliced red cabbage, cooked with spices, vinegar, butter, and sugar until soft.
On a whim, I didn’t make pickled red cabbage. Soft, tender red cabbage with a zing and zang, reminiscent of what I’ve tried in German restaurants paired with pork sausages and mashed potatoes. I crafted my version of pickled cabbage, inspired by flavors I've tasted, and added my own unique twist (MALAYSIAN DEVIL CURRY RECIPE). If you’re looking for a conventional pickled red cabbage, you might be surprised (CARROT YOGURT SALAD).

Thursday, April 20, 2023

Tantalizing Tomyam Fish: A Flavor Explosion

Tomyam - a name that resonates with food lovers worldwide, synonymous with the bold, unmistakable flavors of Thai cuisine. It's a culinary journey I've savored for years, honing my skills after exploring every nook and cranny of Thailand's diverse gastronomic landscape.

 

From the bustling streetside stalls to the refined elegance of upscale eateries, Thailand's culinary scene offers a spectrum of delights. Yet, amidst the array of options, one dish stands out - Tomyam. Its fiery spiciness can be a challenge to stomach at times, but oh, the rewards are worth it.

Tuesday, March 21, 2023

Easy Turmeric Rice Recipe: Nasi Kunyit

A scoop of rice cooked with fresh turmeric, coconut milk, salt, and water, served atop 4 turmeric leaves on a plate.
What sets turmeric powder apart from fresh turmeric? Turmeric powder delivers a concentrated, warm, and slightly bitter flavor, while fresh turmeric offers a bright, earthy, and peppery taste with a hint of ginger. The aroma differs too - turmeric powder has a deeper, more intense earthy scent, whereas fresh turmeric’s fragrance is vibrant, pungent, and subtly citrusy. Both are rich in curcumin, celebrated for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Tuesday, March 7, 2023

Chandigarh, North India - Urban Serenity & Marvels

From Kullu Manali (KULLU MANALI MAJESTY) to Chandigarh. India's first planned city, Chandigarh stands as a testament to modern urban design and efficiency. Renowned for its well-organized sectors, lush greenery, and wide avenues, Chandigarh blends functionality with aesthetic charm. Designed by Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier in the 1950s, the city boasts clean, tree-lined streets, serene parks, and distinctive architecture. Chandigarh serves as the capital of both Punjab and Haryana states, fostering a vibrant cultural scene alongside its administrative importance. As a model of sustainable urban living (HOKKAIDO WINTER TIME), Chandigarh continues to offer a tranquil yet dynamic environment (SURAKARTA HEARTBEAT & BOROBUDUR ETERNAL LEGEND). 

During the six-hour journey, we encountered unexpected challenges. Several tour members fell ill with stomach upset, vomiting, nausea, and fever. Despite their boasts of extensive travel experience across India, they were unprepared for the winding mountain roads, plus, I reckon it’s the effects of late-night meals followed by over-eating again at breakfast buffet. This lack of foresight led to unscheduled stops for fresh air and medical assistance, disrupting the journey. Some had to visit the doctor while others waited on the coach.

Monday, February 13, 2023

Kullu Manali - Experiencing Himalayan Majesty

Next on our itinerary was Kullu Manali (SHIMLA ESSENCE OF HIMALAYSAN GEM). After a comfort break and lunch, we arrived at the Westin Hotel and Resort in Manali past 10 PM. Declining the late dinner, I headed straight to my room and was impressed by its cleanliness and comfort. A refreshing shower marked the end of my day before bedtime. The buffet breakfast the next morning wasn’t remarkable but provided the necessary fuel for our activities at Rohtang Pass (HOKKAIDO WINTER LUST).

Rohtang Pass, nestled in the majestic Himalayas at an altitude of about 3,978 meters, holds significant historical (VARANASI SACRED GANGES) and geographical importance. It has served as a crucial trade route since ancient times, connecting the lush Kullu Valley to the arid Lahaul and Spiti Valleys. The name Rohtang translates to "pile of corpses" due to its challenging terrain and unpredictable weather, which historically made it a difficult passage. Today, Rohtang Pass offers breathtaking vistas of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and alpine meadows.

Vegetable Stew Recipe - Sayur Lodeh Putih

Vegetable stew is a beloved dish worldwide, but in Asian countries, it's often prepared with coconut milk. In Sri Lanka ( KIRI HODI RECI...