Saturday, June 22, 2024

Masi Magam Thiruvizha/Festival, Pulau Pangkor


I am definitely not the most devout person. I certainly don’t look like one, alright? But I believe deeply in my religion, Hinduism. You won't find me in the temple, fervently praying and performing rituals, because my philosophy towards Hinduism is that being a good human is what being religious truly means. Are you a good human (CHANDIGARH INDIA TEMPLES)

When I was invited to attend the Pulau Pangkor Masi Magam Thiruvizha, or festival, I thought, why not? It would be my first experience, and I was eager to see what it was all about. My friend took care of all the arrangements, including transport. On Sunday, we departed from Klang Sentral Bus Terminal and arrived in Lumut by late afternoon for the ferry ride to Pulau Pangkor (CHENNAI TEMPLES & NEW DELHI TEMPLES).

Easy Chickpea Spinach Curry with Coconut Milk

Thick, vibrant chickpea spinach curry with coconut milk in a see-through Pyrex dish

Chickpeas cooked with spinach and enriched with creamy coconut milk - doesn’t that sound fabulous? Why not? At Nava’s Zen, spinach is one of the many things we grow. Different varieties thrive here, and some even sprout up unexpectedly, much to my surprise.

 

This dish, known as Chole Palak in India, isn’t something I often see prepared in Indian households in Malaysia - curious, isn’t it? No matter. Here, Ms. Nava is delighted to share her version of this recipe. It’s vegetarian, vegan, and oh-so-luscious, creamy, aromatic, and absolutely delicious.

Tuesday, June 18, 2024

Easy South Indian Fish Curries: Coconut & Veggie Options

South Indian fish curry with coconut milk, served with half a salted egg, simmered green Japanese beans, and rice on a banana leaf
This is one of the easiest South Indian-inspired fish curries with a Malaysian twist (TURMERIC FISH). No grinding or roasting is needed - just pantry-friendly ingredients and store-bought curry powder. In Malaysia, we often add veggies to fish curry, such as okra (ladies' fingers) or brinjal, though South Indian fish curries traditionally don’t include them. This version, adapted by Ms. Nava, brings a unique Malaysian flair (LAMB KEEMA/SPICY MINCED LAMB). Here, I’m sharing two variations: a Fish Curry with Coconut Milk and another with Okra. Feel free to add your choice of vegetables to either recipe.

Things to Experience in Norway

Fjord cruise scenery with a woman tourist jumping in happiness
Exploring the Scenic Beauty of Vossestrand and Beyond

The next morning, we set off for Vossestrand, a picturesque destination known for its stunning landscapes and natural beauty (OSLO NORWAY ATTRACTIONS). The drive, though long, was an adventure in itself, filled with several stops to take in the incredible surroundings. Towering mountains, lush valleys, and tranquil lakes lined the road, transforming each stretch into a living postcard. The untouched nature seemed endless, making every turn feel like a new discovery.

Friday, June 14, 2024

Mango Salad Recipe: Vegetarian & Nyonya Style

Vegetarian mango salad with sliced green mango, sliced red chili, fried shallots, roasted sesame seeds, and coriander leaves
The love for mango salad doesn’t need words to express. It’s all about a dish that bursts with flavor and excites your taste buds - don’t you agree? This vegetarian, Nyonya-style mango salad is a perfect choice for both vegetarians and non-vegetarians. Minimalist and easy to prepare, it’s a refreshing addition to any meal.

Just one tip: mango salad is best consumed immediately after it’s made. This helps retain its freshness and prevents it from becoming soggy over time.

Thursday, June 13, 2024

Easy Tips for Healthy Eating Habits

Woman smiling to represent easy healthy eating habits
We’ve discussed how what we eat affects our health. But staying healthy isn’t just about eating salads all day. It's about cultivating healthy eating habits that contribute to a balanced lifestyle - not just for weight loss, but for overall well-being (LOSE WEIGHT FAST: THE HEALTHY WAY). Wouldn’t you be interested in discovering healthy eating habits that are simple, sustainable, and effective?

Mastering Meal Planning

Meal planning is the cornerstone of mindful eating. It’s about making decisions ahead of time, rather than acting on impulse. Whether you plan for a day or a week, having a meal plan keeps you aware of what, when, and where you eat. This practice also helps you organize your grocery list, ensuring you have the right ingredients on hand.

Oslo, Norway: Top Attractions and Things to Do

Malaysian Indian woman tourist happily posing with the two kids naked stone sculptures in Frogner Park Norway
Akershus Fortress: A Glimpse into Oslo’s Pas
Our first stop (COPENHAGEN: KRONBORG CASTLE) was Akershus Fortress, a historical gem dating back to 1290, originally constructed to defend Oslo from invasions. This impressive stone structure has served various roles over the centuries, including a royal residence and a military base. Walking through the grounds, we admired the views over the harbor and Oslofjord, along with the beautiful rose garden. Though we couldn’t enter the Armed Forces Museum, it’s a must-visit for military history enthusiasts. Akershus offers a unique mix of history, beauty, and tranquility - a perfect way to start our day (PERTH, AUSTRALIA: ATTRACTIONS & DINING).

Adolescents' Global Mental Health Crisis: Holistic Wellness Yoga

Author Ms. Krishnan N, a Zenpreneur in her 60s, founded Nava's Zen at 58. With 22 years as a lecturer, including 13 years in the Curtin ...