Tuesday, August 29, 2023

The Delights of K2 Kopitiam: A Foodie's Paradise

To be known as a foodie is to embrace culinary adventures, exploring flavors from all corners, be it the streets or coffee shops. While high-end restaurants often steal the limelight, it's essential to remember that delicious food can be found in unexpected places, such as Chinese coffee shops that have reinvented themselves as Kopitiams (Malaysia's Vibrant Street Food). In this blog post, we revisit K2 Kopitiam, located in Bandar Rimbayu, a bustling end-lot coffee shop, where we sampled an array of tantalizing dishes from its diverse stalls.

Sunday, August 20, 2023

Bunga Kantan/Torch Ginger: Urban Farming's Culinary Gem

Have you ever caught a whiff of Bunga Kantan, also known as Torch Ginger or Torch Lily? If you have, you'll know the thrill it brings. And if you haven't, you're in for a treat. Beyond its enchanting scent, growing this plant is like adding a vibrant burst of green to your garden. Its simple elegance truly lights up any space. And when those torch-like blooms start to emerge, it's like witnessing a whole new level of natural beauty unfold right before your eyes. As an urban gardener passionate about cultivating local scents, my first attempt at growing torch ginger didn't quite go as planned. But let me tell you, the journey is just as enchanting as the destination.

Wednesday, August 16, 2023

Turmeric Black Cumin Rice - A Health is Wealth Dish

There's a common misconception that rice should be avoided if you're trying to lose weight. However, that couldn't be further from the truth! With the right approach, you can still enjoy a small portion of rice and maintain a balanced diet (Curry Leaf Coconut Oil Rice). Today, I bring you a delicious and wholesome rice dish that combines the goodness of turmeric and black cumin. This recipe not only satisfies your taste buds (Malay Style Turmeric Rice) but also contributes to your overall well-being (Blue Pea Rice). Let's dive into the delightful world of Turmeric Black Cumin Rice!

Tuesday, August 8, 2023

Vegetable Biryani & Pulao: Zen Color & Taste Therapy

Zen Color Therapy in cuisine is all about the art of creating visually stunning dishes that nurture both body and soul. It’s not just about adding color but about crafting meals that engage the senses, enhance well-being, and bring joy. By incorporating a variety of colorful ingredients, you make your dishes not only appetizing but also a feast for the eyes, elevating both the presentation and the dining experience (HYDERABADI VEGETABLE BIRYANI: SPICE INFUSED). 

High-end restaurants understand this, with their focus on plating that turns food into art. Similarly, when you elevate the presentation of your meals, you uplift the happiness of everyone who enjoys them (TURKISH SAFFRON RICE: GOLDEN RICE).

Thursday, July 27, 2023

Mindfulness: Navigating the Modern World with Nava's Zen


In today's fast-paced world, mindfulness and its practice have become widely discussed and embraced by many. People from all walks of life are finding ways to incorporate mindfulness into their daily routines, recognizing its relevance amidst the hustle and bustle of modern life. It's intriguing how life has evolved from a simpler time, where relaxation and navigating through life seemed more attainable. Now, there is an incessant pursuit of success and grand dreams, yet simultaneously, there is a call to slow down and care for our minds.

Monday, July 24, 2023

Rendang Recipes: Chicken, Goat, Potato & Fish

Let’s venture into the world of Rendang, starting with Malaysian Rendang - a favorite among the Malay community. This rich and flavorful dish features meat, usually beef or chicken, slow-cooked in coconut milk and a blend of spices like lemongrass, galangal, turmeric, and chilies. Malaysian rendang comes in various types, including Rendang Tok from Perak, known for its darker, richer flavor due to longer cooking times and the addition of kerisik/toasted grated coconut): KERISIK RECIPES. Another type, Rendang Minang, reflects the influence of the Minangkabau people, with a slightly different preparation and taste.

Personally, I’m most familiar with the classic rendang, always made with a blend of spices and kerisik - an essential ingredient for me. Since we don’t eat beef and my husband avoids chicken, I often make Rendang Kambing (Mutton or Goat Rendang). However, I also prepare Rendang Ayam (Chicken Rendang) when we have guests, and I’ve experimented with other variations like Vegetarian Rendang, Rendang Kentang (Potato Rendang), Rendang Sardine using canned sardines, Rendang Ikan Bawal (Pomfret Fish Rendang), and even TOFU RENDANG..

Saturday, July 22, 2023

The Essence of Qualified Coaching: Beyond Empty Words and Intimidating Stares

In today's world, it seems like everyone is calling themselves a coach. However, the landscape is filled with a mix of qualified and unqualified individuals who are leveraging the term "coach" for personal branding purposes. While some resort to dubious tactics, true coaches bring substance and genuine expertise to their clients. As a qualified coach myself, I understand the importance of continuous learning and strive to provide a positive coaching experience. In this article, I want to shed light on a concerning trend I've observed and offer valuable insights for both aspiring and existing coaches. (Nature Oasis)

Sunday, July 16, 2023

Lavish Coffee House: A Treat for the Senses

Indulge in a culinary journey, for even food enthusiasts deserve a treat from time to time (Signature Tiffins Cafe). Whether it's to reward ourselves for our hard work and dedication or simply to savor life's pleasures, treating ourselves is a nourishment for both the mind and soul (He Ju Kopitiam & Nutz & Boltz). Today, at about 10:15 AM, we found ourselves at Lavish Coffee House (No 16-G, Jalan Eco Santuari 8/2B, Eco Santuari, Selangor) immersed in its captivating ambiance. The menu instantly caught our attention, offering a plethora of options to satisfy our cravings. Among the array of choices, we opted for Ladies Breakfast Set (RM23.00), which came with a steaming cup of Americano and a plate of Kampung Fried Rice (RM19.90), alongside a comforting Cafe Latte (RM9.90).

Thursday, July 13, 2023

Spinach Lentil Recipes: 21st Century Wellness

Spinach is my go-to green - packed with nourishment and bursting with benefits. It’s no wonder it’s considered a superfood, and I proudly grow several varieties in Nava’s Zen. Though, I’ll admit, sometimes it’s tricky to pin down the exact names of each type. But hey, if it’s got those vibrant red or purple stems, I know it’s Malabar Spinach. Why are so many types lumped under the Malabar name? Beats me! But one thing’s for sure: spinach is a must-have in my garden (CURRY LEAF RICE 3 SIMPLE RECIPES).

Now, if you’re thinking you can’t grow spinach, think again. It’s as simple as grabbing seeds, tossing them in soil, and giving them a good drink of water. You don’t need to be a wellness guru or attend gardening seminars to make it happen (BRAZILIAN SPINACH A HIDDEN GEM).

Exploring Betong, Thailand: Hidden Gems and Local Flavors

By 7:00 am ( BETONG: WEEKEND TRIP OF DISCOVERIES ), freshly showered, I headed down to the lobby, ready for the day ahead. Joined by a frien...