Monday, September 9, 2024

Thai Red Curry: Prawn, Mutton & Egg Flavor Profiles

Vibrant red Thai prawn curry in a dish, with a spoon at the back, displayed on a bed of lemongrass stems
(Updated Version)

The vibrant, aromatic Thai Red Curry Paste is the heart of many delicious dishes. Once you've made this paste, you’re almost ready to whip up a flavorful Thai Red Prawn Curry. It’s a versatile paste, perfect for adding your choice of seafood, chicken, or pork. While I can't say for sure if it works with beef, I can definitely vouch for my Thai Red Mutton Curry. In fact, I’ve made it countless times, along with prawn and egg variations (THAI SPICY EGGPLANT).

Sunday, September 8, 2024

Sexual and Mental Affairs of Urbanites: Yoga for Body and Mind

Author
Ms. Krishnan N, a Zen entrepreneur in her 60s, founded Nava's Zen at 58. With 22 years 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 expertise enriches her current work.

Abstract
In the fast-paced urban environment, the pursuit of pleasure and emotional fulfillment has led to an increased prevalence of sexual and mental affairs. This article explores how the demands and dynamics of modern urban life have shifted desires and behaviors, leading individuals to seek connections outside traditional relationships. The article distinguishes between sexual and mental affairs, highlighting how each serves different needs and reflects the complexities of contemporary relationships. It also addresses how these affairs are influenced by factors such as emotional loneliness, libido crises, lust over love, wear and tear of relationship, also, trills of affairs, the quest for personal fulfillment.

Saturday, September 7, 2024

Chinese Rice Congee: Best Accompaniments and Tips

(Updated Version)

Rice congee, or bubur nasi as we call it in Bahasa, is essentially rice cooked with extra water, creating a soft, diluted form of rice. I’m a huge fan of rice congee – how about you? On chilly days, nothing beats the comfort of a warm bowl of it. Now, let’s dive into making rice congee and explore some delightful additions to enhance the experience.

Friday, September 6, 2024

Chrysanthemum Goji Berry Jelly & More Zen Jellies

Round-shaped Chrysanthemum Goji Berry Jelly, beautifully presented on a white plate with a knife, and a few in white paper cups
(Updated Version)

I have a wealth of stories, and one I'm excited to share involves my journey with jellies. When I first launched Nava K, now known as Nava’s Zen, 14 years ago, I started making desserts, and jellies made with agar-agar were among the simplest to create. I'll be sharing these recipes, but the standout is undoubtedly Chrysanthemum Goji Berry Jelly. Although it's a traditional Chinese jelly, I was surprised to find that even many Chinese people were unfamiliar with this style. It left me quite speechless!

Goji berries are a staple in my kitchen, often used in Chinese soups and noodle dishes (CHINESE VEGETABLE NOODLE SOUP). I also regularly make chrysanthemum tea. With these ingredients always on hand, what more can I add?

The Komunal Bukit Rimau: A MIxed Review

I can't provide a detailed history or pinpoint when The Komunal Bukit Rimau first made its mark among the eateries in Bukit Rimau and Kota Kemuning, given the subtle boundary between these two areas (CHAMELEON KOTA KEMUNING & BUNS & NOODLES BUKIT RIMAU). My discovery was serendipitous, as The Komunal Bukit Rimau surfaced during an online search among a plethora of dining options. Positioned at a corner lot in a commercial building with residential condos above, the four of us arrived around 9:30 a.m.

The establishment exudes a cozy atmosphere, enhanced by sunlight streaming through the surrounding glass walls, creating a comfortable and inviting space. After perusing a menu that boasts an impressive variety, we made our selections. Notably, desserts require a visit to the counter to choose from an enticing display.

Thursday, September 5, 2024

Indian Crab Rasam: Zen-Approved Healthy Nandu Soup

Pepper crab, casam and spinach mash served individual bowls,  as a complete meal
(Updated Version)

Rasam, a Zen nutritious Indian spiced soup, is already a powerhouse on its own (RASAM VARIATIONS UNIQUE TWISTS). Now, imagine adding crab claws (often called crab legs) to it - transforming it into what’s known as Indian Crab Soup or Nandu Rasam. Crab Rasam is also a Zen natural remedy for cold, flu, and congestion -  have you tried it? 

Wednesday, September 4, 2024

Miris Malu: Claypot Sri Lankan Mango Fish Curry

Sri Lankan mango fish curry in a silver bowl, a wooden spatula beside it, set against a clay pot with the same curry in the background
(Updated Version)

Miris malu is a cherished Sri Lankan dish (SRI LANKAN CARROT SAMBOLA), celebrated for its bold flavors and spicy essence. The name "miris malu" translates to "spicy fish" in Sinhalese, and this curry lives up to its name with fresh fish simmered in a rich, aromatic gravy. In Ms. Nava’s traditional version, a touch of green mango adds a unique twist. As a Malaysian Indian, this familiar ingredient introduces a natural tang that beautifully complements the thick, spicy curry, resulting in a dish with tender fish pieces immersed in a flavorful sauce. Although I had the pleasure of tasting some of Sri Lanka’s finest fish curries during my visit (KATARAGAMA SACRED TRIALS), I did not encounter one with mango. I wonder why that is (COLOMBO DISCOVERY).

4 Chilli Chicken Recipes

Chinese chili chicken stew with okra and carrot stir fry, spicy dip, and rice on a white plate
(Updated Version)

Chilli Chicken is more than just a staple in Chinese eateries - it's a dish that invites creativity and personal flair. Whether you order it as part of a group meal or spot it at a Chinese mix rice (chap fun) stall, Chilli Chicken is always a crowd-pleaser. The classic recipes are great, but for Ms. Nava, adding her unique twist is a must. If you've noticed in the pictures, she likes to throw in some potatoes - have you ever tried Chilli Chicken with potatoes? If not, it's time to get adventurous in your kitchen (PORTUGUESE CHICKEN DEVIL CURRY). Or why not add your own twist with ingredients that excite you?


I’m about to share how you can transform Chilli Chicken  (MALAY CHICKEN RECIPES) into something entirely new, while keeping chillies and chicken as the stars of the show. Whether you prefer fresh red chillies or dried ones, this versatile dish is all about bold flavors and personal touches. For a typical Malaysian like me, chillies are essential, adding that spicy kick I can’t live without.

Penang Food Guide: Where & What To Eat

A tourist joyfully posing beside the Ernest Zacharevic bicycle mural in Penang, featuring a painted bicycle with two children playfully depicted as if riding along
Hungry for more culinary adventures (PENANG FOOD FINDS)? Let's keep the food hunt going! Calling all fellow foodies to join me as we uncover more delicious eateries across Penang Island (PENANG SIGHTSEEING SPOTS). No time to waste - let's dive right in! Because let's be real, food isn't just a necessity; it's a passion that fuels our lives (PENANG THAIPUSAM JOURNEY OF FAITH). So, are you ready to embark on this flavorful journey with me?

Passions Of Kerala (Taman Brown, Gelugor)

As the name suggests, Passions Of Kerala serves up traditional Kerala cuisine, made from scratch. For lunch, the obvious choice is a banana leaf meal. Along with rice, you'll get curries, chutney, pickle, and side dishes. We also added fried fish, mutton parathal, and chicken parathal. As we dug in, we agreed it was a decent meal. However, the bold flavors didn’t really wake up our taste buds or leave a lasting impression.

Butterfly Blue Pea Flower - Growing, Benefits & Cooking

(Updated Version) Butterfly blue pea flower, known locally as Bunga Telang in our local Bahasa Malaysia language, is also referred to as Cli...