The Grand Mapillai Restaurant Culinary Adventure

My other half-half has joined me in the exciting pursuit of discovering new eateries, a refreshing departure from his usual routine of sticking to familiar places and dishes. The news of his enthusiasm for suggesting novel dining spots was particularly thrilling, considering his previous tendency to opt for the same old eateries and stick to familiar dishes, playing it safe rather than venturing into culinary exploration. I've noticed that people's dining preferences are often influenced by those they choose to share meals with. Some tend to shy away from trying new eateries or exploring unfamiliar dishes unless compelled to by more adventurous companions (Ding Xiang Bak Kut Teh). I've made it a point to avoid dining with those who limit themselves to predictable and mundane food choices.

Easy Pumpkin Curry with Coconut Milk Recipe

(Updated Version)

Who wants to spend hours in the kitchen cooking? Not me! I prefer keeping cooking easy and straightforward. As I’ve mentioned before, it starts with the ingredients you have in your pantry and fridge, creating a delicious meal in no time (EASY SPINACH LENTIL CURRY).

 

Enter Easy Pumpkin Curry with Coconut Milk. Mildly spicy, creamy from the coconut milk (COCONUT MILK CHICKEN CURRY), tangy with the taste of tomatoes, and featuring soft, tender pumpkin pieces. Sounds amazing, right? Of course! This is an oilless, vegetarian, and vegan version with a healthy impact.

Easy Potato Sambal Recipe: Vegetarian

(Updated Version) 

A dish I've made countless times, potato sambal is fuss-free and comes together in just about 30 minutes. With its minimal ingredients, it’s a perfect choice for vegetarian meals (HYDERABADI VEGETABLE BIRYANI), usually paired with rice and a couple of side dishes. This classic dish, also known as spicy potato, is forever loved - don’t believe me? Try it yourself, and I bet you’ll agree. Soft, tender potatoes (MORINGA POTATO CURRY) are coated in a thick, spicy sambal with a hint of zing - a quintessential Malaysian Malay gravy or sauce. Simple, satisfying, and absolutely delicious.

Pork Chops Recipe - Chinese Style

Chinese-style pork chops are a delicious twist on classic pork chops, easy to prepare and full of bold, Asian flavours. Unlike Western-style versions, this Chinese pork chops recipe uses a simple marinade made with common Chinese ingredients like soy sauce, oyster sauce, ginger, and garlic. The best part? You can marinate the chops ahead of time and keep them in the fridge,  or freeze them, for a quick and easy meal later (WILD BOAR CURRY RECIPE).

 

Want to take it further? Try Chinese fusion pork chops by adding butter while cooking for extra richness. You can also mix in green peas or sliced red chillies instead of the usual chilli sauce for that spicy kick loved in Asian pork dishes.

Coconut Chicken Curry Recipe - Indian Style

(Updated Version)

Is Indian food Kerala food? Is Kerala cuisine also Indian cuisine? While you ponder, let’s get to the recipe. It’s a Kerala Indian coconut chicken curry (AUTHENTIC INDIAN CHICKEN CURRIES). How can a Kerala chicken curry be complete without coconut milk and a blend of spices for that punchy, spicy, and creamy thick curry with tender chicken pieces? Get your place of rice and a raw salad (BEST INDIAN NO COOK SALADS) and picture pouring Coconut Chicken Curry and enjoying it with your fingers and hands. Oh-Wow! 

Potato Curry - Vegetarian

When one of the favorite ingredients goes into a curry, it’s a bomb of deliciousness. Potatoes, beloved worldwide, appear in countless dishes, each unique in its own way. From French fries and mashed potatoes to stir-fries and, of course, Indian potato curries, this versatile vegetable shines in every form.

You can also add moringa sticks or fruits from the Moringa tree, also known as Murunggakai or Murungai, though the curry is equally delicious without them (EGG CURRY WITH MORINGA).

Fish Curry with Coconut Milk - Sri Lankan Style

Nothing comes close to the flavor of fresh coconut milk. Creamy, mildly sweet, and nutty, it adds a natural creaminess that elevates any fish curry with coconut milk. When fresh coconut milk isn’t available, canned or packaged coconut milk can be used, and some even use cream for curries.

However, in classic Kerala Fish Curry (KERALA TOURIST SPOTS) or Sri Lankan-style fish curry, fresh coconut milk truly shines, melding beautifully with the spices to release its aroma. Smooth, velvety, and subtly earthy, it gives the curry a pure, fresh taste rather than a heavy feel. 

Even when prepared in a Malaysian kitchen (SALTED FISH CURRY WITH PINEAPPLE), fresh coconut milk ensures the dish remains authentically flavorful.

No-Cook Cucumber Pineapple Salad

Some recipes shine not because of fire or fancy cooking, but because of their raw freshness. This no-cook cucumber pineapple salad is one of those gems - crisp cucumbers meet juicy pineapple in a medley that is refreshing, tangy, and lightly spiced. 

It’s the kind of easy tropical salad recipe that works for hot days, quick meals, or as a cucumber pineapple side dish to balance heavier curries.

In North India, a similar version is known as Kachumber, usually made with cucumber, onion, and tomato. Move further south, and you’ll find variations served alongside rice (VEGETABLE BIRYANI) and curries, often simply called cucumber salad.

Marriage and Culinary Exploration: Vietnamese Delights (Ding Xiang Bak Kut Teh Restaurant)

In the journey of marriage, we learn valuable lessons, and one of them is that you don't always have to compromise on your food preferences. Last Sunday, this lesson took me on a delightful food venture in Bandar Rimbayu. As my husband headed to a kopitiam for Indian cuisine (K2 Kopitiam), I found myself at Ding Xiang Bak Kut Teh Restaurant, craving Vietnamese flavors. This unassuming eatery, also serving Bak Kut Teh and Chinese dishes, offered a menu right on the table - a thoughtful touch.

How to Grow Roses: The Ultimate Guide

(Updated Version)

Roses are among the most beloved flowers worldwide, cherished for their exquisite beauty and enchanting fragrance. I particularly adore red roses for their vibrant hue and natural elegance, though I also grow roses in other colors. While they brighten any garden, growing roses isn't as simple as it may seem. After years of trial and error, I've adapted to cultivating these stunning blooms. Here's how you can grow your own roses, even in challenging climates like Malaysia's (GARDENING TIPS FOR BEGINNERS).

(These are the rose plants growing in Nava's Zen. You'll see how pruning allows new stems and leaves to grow. However, one of the challenges is the weather. Both too hot and constant heavy rainy seasons can cause the leaves to dry and wither).

Soil Type

In Malaysia, clay soil dominates, which isn’t ideal for roses. Clay hardens quickly, especially in hot weather, resembling rocks that can dry out roots. To counter this, I dig up the clay, mix in black compost soil, and plant the roses in this enriched blend. This keeps moisture levels balanced and promotes healthy growth.

 

Growing in Pots

Since my garden is reserved for herbs and veggies, I grow roses in pots. For potting, I use black soil mixed with coco peat. Over time, the soil can dry out, so I periodically aerate it using a gardening fork, trim excess roots, and replenish the soil. Proper maintenance ensures water penetrates the soil, nourishing the roots (HOW TO GROW CHILLIES).

Watering
Rainwater works wonders for roses. I position my potted plants where rain can reach them, skipping additional watering during downpours. During dry spells, I water them daily, ensuring they get enough hydration to thrive.

 

Fertilizing

Roses need regular feeding to bloom. I use organic fertilizers every fortnight, adhering to the recommended quantities. Over-fertilizing can harm the plants, so moderation is key.

Pruning
Pruning is essential after blooms have withered. Removing old branches encourages new growth and keeps the plants thriving. Rooting cuttings in water can also yield new plants, which, once rooted, flourish with proper care.

Handling Thorns
Thorns are an inevitable part of growing roses. Wear gloves to avoid scratches and be cautious as thorns can snag on clothes or pierce deeply. Treat any wounds promptly with antiseptic cream to prevent infection.

Pest Control
Bugs and insects can damage rose leaves and flowers. Organic sprays effectively deter pests without harming the environment. Regular checks keep the plants healthy and beautiful.

 

Patience and Care

Roses demand time, effort, and a nurturing touch. I dedicate time every fortnight to care for all my plants, including roses, herbs, and veggies. The reward of seeing fresh blooms is incomparable. Indoors, roses add elegance to vases or, in my case, serve as natural hair accessories with their delightful fragrance.

Growing roses is a fulfilling journey that requires dedication and love. With these steps, you can create your own flourishing rose garden and enjoy the beauty they bring to your life.

 

(Ms. Nava is a dynamic individual in her 60s, leading yoga sessions at Nava's Zen while also embracing her passion for gardening through Zen Blooming. With credentials in gardening and extensive experience, she cultivates a serene environment that reflects her commitment to Zen, inspiring others to find balance and tranquility in their lives).

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.

How To Grow and Care for Torch Ginger (Bunga Kantan)

Scientifically known as Etlingera elatior, this striking tropical plant is more commonly called torch ginger in Malaysia. In fact, regardless of race, Malaysians fondly call it bunga kantan, and it is rarely referred to as pokok kantan. This is the same flower used in cooking, especially when harvested as the unopened edible bud, often called the torch ginger bud.

Across the region, it goes by other names too. In Indonesia, it’s called kecombrang; in Sundanese (West Java, Indonesia), honje; and in Sabah, a state in Malaysia, the Kadazan-Dusun community calls it bokna.

Vegetable Biryani Recipe

Biryani as home-cooking is mainly for special occasions and festive seasons. It’s a rice dish enhanced with various ingredients. The list of biryani recipes is endless. They span continents, cooking styles, layering techniques, and include versions with meat or as a meatless biryani.

Vegetable biryani is particularly apt when hosting both vegetarians and non-vegetarians, as it suits everyone. It’s practical because biryani can be paired with other vegetable dishes as a vegetarian meal. It can also be non-vegetarian when served alongside seafood, chicken (CHICKEN RENDANG RECIPE) mutton, or beef. This easy vegetable biryani recipe is ideal for home cooking and for anyone seeking a tasty meatless option.

Chicken Rendang Recipe (Resepi Rendang Ayam)

When you think of rendang, two countries immediately come to mind: Indonesia (URAP KANGKUNG/WATER SPINACH SALAD) and Malaysia. Rendang is widely recognized as originating from Indonesia, particularly from the Minangkabau people of West Sumatra. Traditionally, it is prepared for ceremonial occasions, and its name refers to the slow-cooking process that tenderizes meat in a rich mixture of coconut milk and spices.

Rendang usually comes in two popular variations: beef rendang (rendang daging) and chicken rendang (rendang ayam). In both Indonesian and Malaysian (KERABU BENDI/OKRA SALAD) versions, the rempah (spice paste) is the heart of the dish.

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).

Spinach Dal Recipe

Spinach is a nutritious leafy vegetable that comes in many varieties, and the list seems almost endless. You’re probably still discovering new ones yourself. Some of the names can overlap, but the most common types include:

Regular Green Spinach
The everyday spinach with tender leaves.

 

Curly Spinach

Crinkly, textured leaves

Egg Curry Recipe

Eggs don’t need much introduction. They are a universal favorite in every household. From breakfast to supper, eggs appear in countless dishes, whether fried, boiled, or poached. They can be eaten on their own or added into salads, stir-fries, fried rice, noodles, or used as a binding ingredient in side dishes.

 

Among these, boiled eggs often find their way into curries, not just Indian curries, but Thai curries as well. Thai (TOM YUM FISH) curries come in many varieties, including red, yellow, and green, and in the Thai Green Curry, boiled eggs make an ideal combination.

 

For a homemade Thai Green Curry, the essential ingredients - herbs (CURRY LEAF RICE), spices, and chili, are traditionally pounded in a mortar, though blending is more convenient for home cooking. The green curry paste is fried in oil to release its fragrant aroma, then coconut milk, seasoning, and boiled eggs are added to complete the Thai Green Egg Curry.

 

Served generously over rice, the staple food of Thailand, this vibrant, creamy green curry is comforting and flavorful. Bursting with bold, aromatic flavours, this Thai-style egg curry is a dish loved across the world (INDIAN FISH CURRY).

Ingredients for Egg Curry
5 green chilies 
1/2 inch galangal 
2 lemongrass stalks 
A handful of coriander leaves 
2 stalks of spring onion 
2 shallots 
1 1/2 tsp cumin powder 
1 tsp belacan (shrimp paste) powder 
Water (as needed for blending)

Other Ingredients

1 cup coconut milk 

10 boiled eggs 

3 green - cut into 2

Palm sugar - as needed 

Lime juice - as needed  

1/2 cup oil 

Salt

How to Make Egg Curry

Heat oil, tip in the green curry paste and cook it until the oil separates. 

Pour in the coconut milk and stir. 

Once it start to simmer, add boiled eggs.  

Season with palm sugar, salt and lime juice. 

Stir and switch off the heat.

Add in the cut into 2 green chilies and stir to combine in. 

A Foodie's Journey in Taman Tun Dr Ismail: Unveiling the Culinary Delights of Alora Spices

Usually, my food hunting adventures take place within Kota Kemuning. However, a week ago, I had the pleasure of venturing into Taman Tun Dr Ismail after a delightful outing with a dear friend in Bukit Bintang. In search of a satisfying late lunch, we stumbled upon Alora Spices, an Indian eatery that instantly captivated us with its inviting ambiance and clean atmosphere. Join me as I recount the flavorsome experience and delectable dishes that awaited us at this hidden gem.

Curry Leaf Rice Recipe: Rice Cooker Style

If not all, there are people who think “superfoods” are rare, exotic, or expensive products found only in specialty stores. But some of the healthiest ingredients are already in our kitchens. They are quietly packed with nutrients that are often overlooked. Curry leaves are one of the best examples of superfood herbs (CUMIN RICE RECIPE).

A staple in Indian households, grown in home compounds, these fragrant leaves are now recognized worldwide for their health benefits, including antioxidants, vitamins, and digestive support.

Easy Crab Curry Recipe - Malaysian Style

Prior-fried crabs in a thick, spicy curry (SALTED FISH CURRY WITH PINEAPPLE) make this Malaysian-style dish incredibly flavorful. Curry can also be referred to as masala, which usually means a mixture of spices (dry or wet) used to flavor a dish.

Spices are essential in Indian cuisine, even for a Malaysian-style curry, and they provide consistent taste across cuisines globally. In restaurants, a thick, spicy curry is often called Masala Crab or Crab Masala, while at home, it’s simply known as crab curry.

Exploring the Versatility of Brazilian Spinach

A couple of years ago, Brazilian spinach was relatively unknown in Malaysia. Over time, it has slowly made its presence felt. Gardeners have started exploring it as part of the growing trend in home and urban gardening. Scientifically known as Alternanthera sissoo, it is commonly referred to by simpler names such as Sissoo spinach, Sambu, Samba lettuce, Sabu spinach, and Poor man’s spinach. 

The name “Brazilian spinach” reflects its country of origin, Brazil. With its glossy, attractive leaves, it is a must-grow vegetable at home.

He Ju Kopitiam: A Culinary Adventure Through a Food Critic's Lens

We decided to check out a kopitiam, which has become quite popular lately. It seems that just using the word "kopitiam" in a restaurant's name attracts customers for different reasons. Kopitiams can be simple coffee shops serving Malaysian food or fancier places with nice decorations and air conditioning. The fancier ones may be a bit pricier, but they attract people with their tasty food and cozy atmosphere. The one we went to was somewhere in the middle, offering a variety of delicious dishes from both Malaysia and other countries on their menu.

Vegetarian Okra Recipe: Kerabu Bendi (Lady Finger Salad)

Okra is better known as lady fingers in some parts of the world, whereas in Malaysia, it is called bendi. This long green vegetable can be slimy when cut, but it is packed with numerous health benefits. Affordable and versatile, bendi is often added to curries or stir-fries (BEANS STIR-FRY CHINESE STYLE).

 

One of the simplest ways to eat it is steamed or boiled, paired with a spicy Malaysian dip, or sambal. For a more elevated version, the steamed or boiled okra can be sliced and turned into a Malaysian salad. One popular type is a raw salad (CUCUMBER YOGURT SALAD NO-CO0K) known as Kerabu, a no-fuss recipe using kitchen-friendly ingredients.

Restoran Top 1 Kopitiam: Malaysia's Vibrant Street Food Scene

As an avid food lover, I may not claim to be the world's top foodie, but I've had my fair share of dining experiences both within and outside my country. While traveling abroad, I've had the pleasure of indulging in various cuisines. I must confess, I'm not a picky eater and can enjoy a meal anywhere without following strict food rules. 

Unlike some self-proclaimed foodies, I embrace all sorts of culinary delights, except for beef due to my religious beliefs rooted in Hinduism. Although I cook regularly at home, I often take a break to explore the realm of dining out. Lately, I've found myself drawn to the fascinating world of street food, which offers a delightful array of flavors right here in Malaysia.

Gardening Tips for Beginners

(Updated Version)

Not sure how to start or where to begin your gardening journey? Don’t worry! With over 20 years of experience, I’m here to guide you step by step. Gardening doesn’t have to be overwhelming - it’s all about keeping it simple and fun. In this article, we’ll focus on gardening on the ground, leaving aside container gardening for the time being. Let’s dig in.

 

Where to Plant
Start by identifying a plot of land within your compound. Even a small area, like the patch of land near your gate, can work wonders. Consider how much space you have and choose a location that gets enough sunlight. Accessibility for watering and maintenance is key - ensure it’s easy to reach and work with.

 

Cleaning Up
Before planting, clear the area thoroughly. Remove weeds, rocks, and debris from both the surface and below the soil. A clean foundation is essential for healthier plants and makes planting easier. Remember, the larger the plot, the more time it will take to prepare, so start small if you’re a beginner.

Soil Matters

Examine the soil type in your chosen area. In Malaysia, clay soil is common but tends to harden quickly, especially in hot weather. If the soil is too hard, water won’t penetrate deeply, which can hinder plant growth. Consider enhancing the soil by mixing in black soil or compost. Black soil not only improves moisture retention but also adds an attractive contrast when paired with lush green plants.

 

Essential Tools
Equip yourself with the basics:

A hand trowel for planting and digging.

Pruning shears for trimming plants.

Garden gloves for protection and comfort.

A watering can for precise watering.

Start with these essentials and expand your toolkit as needed. For example, a small shovel and soil moisture meter can be helpful once you’re more experienced.

Protection and Safety

Always wear gardening gloves - they protect your hands from dirt, thorns, and insects. Consider gardening boots if you’re working on uneven or rocky ground. If you’re out in the sun for long hours, a wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen are must-haves for your safety.

 

What to Plant
Choose plants suited to your climate and environment. As a beginner, focus on low-maintenance options. Those grow easily and are satisfying to nurture. Avoid  ambitious choices to start; small successes will build your confidence as you grow your green thumb.

 

Learning Along the Way
Gardening is an ongoing learning experience. Read books, explore online resources, or join free gardening workshops if available. Don’t hesitate to ask for advice at local nurseries - most staff are happy to share tips. Every plant you grow teaches you something new, making the journey all the more rewarding.

Dedication and Passion

Gardening requires time, effort, and a love for the process. Be prepared to get sweaty and dirty - it’s part of the experience. Dedication and passion will help you enjoy the challenges and rewards that come with nurturing your own green haven.

 

Happy gardening. In the next article, we will dwell into other matters on gardening.

(Ms. Nava is a dynamic individual in her 60s, leading yoga sessions at Nava's Zen while also embracing her passion for gardening through Zen Blooming. With credentials in gardening and extensive experience, she cultivates a serene environment that reflects her commitment to Zen, inspiring others to find balance and tranquility in their lives). 

 

Salted Fish Curry with Pineapple Recipe

Salted Fish Curry comes in different styles. It is one of the most popular curries in Malaysia, among all communities. Salted fish itself is a beloved Malaysian ingredient, like ikan bilis (dried anchovies). It is one of the things Malaysia is famous for.

The basic salted fish curry (INDIAN FISH CURRY) becomes even more delicious when pineapple is added. Pineapple Salted Fish Curry, or Salted Fish Curry with Pineapple, stands out from the usual versions. Adding pineapple into curries is part of Malay food. Salted Fish Curry with Pineapple is also a known Nyonya (Peranakan) dish, called Kiam Hu Kut Gulai or Nyonya Salted Fish Bones Gulai, which can include pineapple as well.

Beans Stir-Fry: Chinese Style

All things delicious in food are stir-fries. Quick stir-fries are easy and simple recipes, and just a few common kitchen staples make cooking convenient.

Beans come in various types - French beans, long beans, snow beans, and frozen green peas,  all affordable and ideal for home-style cooking. For this recipe, it’s long beans, but other types work just as well. Greens make for a healthy dish, even if achieving authentic wok hei at home is difficult (QUICK CHINESE VEGETABLE STIR-FRY).

Malaysian Wildboar Curry/Kattu Pandi Kulambu

Wild boar, or Kattu Pandi in Tamil, may not be everyone’s choice of meat, but it certainly has a global fan base. Across cultures, wild boar is prepared in distinct, flavour-packed ways. In Italy, it’s slow-braised in red wine and tomatoes into a rich wild boar ragu, usually served with pasta. In Thailand, wild boar is stir-fried jungle-style with herbs, chillies, and green peppercorns. Meanwhile, in the Philippines, it’s grilled or stewed adobo-style with vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and bay leaves.

Tom Yum Fish Recipe

Tom Yum is a world-renowned Thai dish, whether spelled tom yum or tom yam, it’s a classic Thai soup that delights with its spicy, tangy, and aromatic flavors. Traditionally, it can be made by simmering fresh Thai ingredients in a broth or by using a prepared Tom Yum paste. This versatile paste is also used for other Thai dishes, such as Tom Yum Fried Rice or Tom Yum Fried Noodles.

Another essential ingredient in Thai cooking is Mae Pranom Thai Chili Paste, widely available in stores and online, in small or large bottles. It is made from dried chili, dried shrimp, garlic, onion, tamarind, sugar, salt, soybean oil, and shrimp paste, adding depth, heat, and authentic Thai flavor (TAMARIND FRIED FISH). If you don’t have it, you can still recreate the taste by using these ingredients in your spice mix.