Wednesday, September 11, 2024

Nyonya Pineapple Tarts: Handcrafted, Buttery, and Crispy

Golden baked pineapple tarts, with a few placed inside a canister
(Updated Version)


This Indian lady is definitely a bit different. While most Indian women and men make pineapple tarts for Deepavali, I chose to bake them for Chinese New Year. Strange, right? It was just me using my semester break to make Nyonya Pineapple Tarts. I wanted to practice my baking skills (EASIEST BANANA CHOCOLATE CAKE) - after all, practice makes perfect. But I’m not looking to turn this into a business; it’s just a fun hobby for me (INDULGENT CHEESECAKE SWEET DELIGHTS).

Istanbul, Turkey: Discovering Through Timeless Travels

A tourist posing on a boat during a winter Bosphorus cruise, with chilly waters and scenic views in the background
Turkey, the crossroads of Europe and Asia, boasts a rich history influenced by both continents. This unique blend of European and Asian (CHANDIGARH, NORTH INDIA URBAN MARVELS) traditions creates a vibrant and diverse culture. As a popular tourist destination, Turkey attracts visitors year-round. I recently spent 8 days exploring this fascinating country, starting in Istanbul and traveling through Canakkale, Kusadasi, Pamukkale, Cappadocia, Ankara, and Bolu. The long coach journeys, depending on the distance (SURAKARTA INDONESIA HEARTBEAT), sometimes took almost a full day, with stops at attractions and breaks for meals and comfort. Curious about the places (PRETORIA SOUTH AFRICA MOMENTS) I visited in Turkey? Come, follow me on my journey through this country.

Monday, September 9, 2024

Pork Belly With Salted Fish: Steamed and Stir-Fried

Close-up view of pork belly steamed with salted fish and chillies, garnished with fresh coriander leaves
(Updated Version)

Shhh, let’s keep this between us! Ms. Nava’s got a soft spot for pork—don’t let the holy rollers know! The ultra-religious crowd might bring out their Hinduism rulebook and wag their fingers at me. Yes, Hinduism emphasizes vegetarianism and non-violence, but nowhere in the sacred texts does it say pork is off-limits (MALAYSIAN WILDBOAR CURRY). Ah, Hindus - whether you’re all about pork, mutton, or are a part-time vegetarian (you know, on those countless Hindu holy days), there’s no express ticket to heaven based on what’s on your plate. So, let’s leave the judgment at the door, shall we? Zen Cuisine and Zen Wellness certainly don’t discriminate based on diet (EXQUISITE CHINESE PRAWN RECIPES).

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 (EASY INSTANT RASAM RECIPE). 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? 

Easy Gardening: Seed Sowing for Beginners

(Updated Version) Now that we’ve covered the basics of gardening - understanding climate, choosing the right equipment, and identifying soil...