Weekends, public holidays, school holidays, and the year-end break draw countless locals and foreign tourists to Pulau Ketam (FREMANTLE AUSTRALIA THINGS TO DO). For those with flexibility, the island is best visited during off-peak seasons and weekdays. It also serves as a getaway for urbanites, offering an escape from the daily rush and stress, an island to relax and walk around before returning to the usual routine of life.
Enter Ms. Nava, the founder of Nava's Zen, a true enthusiast of urban gardening. Today, she introduces us to the enchanting bread flower, also known as Kesidang, Kerak Nasi, Tikar Seladang, or Vallaris Glabra (Ylang Ylang). These white, star-shaped blossoms have a scent that evokes pandan leaves or the aroma of cooked fragrant jasmine rice. Whenever they bloom, Ms. Nava takes a moment to stand in Nava's Zen and inhale their delightful fragrance. It's her natural way to calm her senses and enjoy a bit of tranquility (Rangoon Creeper).
As a culinary enthusiast, I'm always on the lookout for new dining experiences. This time, I decided to try out Buns & Noodles in Bukit Rimau. Beforehand, I made sure to inform them of my visit, which is important in case they have any limitations or special arrangements, as I mentioned earlier (SAFAA)
You can also take a bus or drive to Fremantle, depending on your preference. However, the train offers one of the most scenic routes, especially as you approach Fremantle and catch sight of the port and ocean in the distance. Once you arrive at Fremantle Station, the town is right at your feet. Fremantle is vibrant and energetic, especially on weekends, public holidays, and school breaks.
Soul food nourishes both the body and the spirit,
and what could embody this better than steamed fish? In our home, we adore
steamed fish (CHINESE STEAMED FISH WITH GINGER AND SCALLION), and it often graces our dining table, lovingly prepared by Ms.
Nava. Today, we’re sharing another beloved style of steamed fish known
worldwide: Thai Steamed Fish with Lime and Chili.
Thai cuisine is a delightful revelation of flavors, and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed indulging in its diverse offerings throughout my travels in Thailand. Wouldn’t you agree that the quintessential tastes of Thai food - spiciness, tanginess, and aromatic herbs - are truly captivating for the soul (TOM YAM SOUP)? This Thai Steamed Fish with Lime and Chili encapsulates all of that deliciousness and comes together effortlessly.
Today, I'm featuring a tempeh dish - an Indonesian recipe that's perfect for vegetarians and vegans. Let me share my passion for tempeh and show you how to incorporate it into your savory dishes.
For those who prefer public transport, take the Mandurah Line from Perth Underground Station (located just below Perth Station). The journey takes around 50 minutes (WHAT TO DO IN PERTH). From Mandurah Station, it’s a short 5–10 minute ride by shuttle bus or taxi to the foreshore and cruise area.
Beef and chicken rendang are the usual choices. But how about making rendang with mutton or lamb? Why not? I’ve made these countless times over the years, and they’ve always turned out fabulous without losing the authentic Malay rendang flavors. Plus, the quintessential Malaysian herbs and spices are a must for any of our rendang recipes (EASIEST MUTTON CURRY RECIPES).
Oh, I must tell you that rendang, on the whole, tastes even better the next day. This means you can cook it ahead, store it in the fridge, and simply warm it up for another meal (LAMB KEEMA RECIPE).
Whether you're here to visit them or as a tourist, it’s worth checking out the popular sights in Perth city. One thing to note, public transport is convenient, with free CAT bus services operating within the city centre. However, be prepared for traffic congestion (TOP THINGS TO DO IN HANOI, VIETNAM), especially during peak hours, as Perth can get busy with daily commuters.
Whether you’re traveling across Vietnam or just exploring Hanoi, the top tourist attractions and street food stand out. The food scene is a treat for the palate, especially the affordable street eats. Street shopping is popular too, alongside international brand stores, a mix that makes Hanoi a must-visit on any Vietnam travel journey.
Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New7 Wonders of Nature, attracts visitors from all over the world. Famous for its towering limestone formations and green waters, it’s one of Vietnam’s most well-known natural attractions. The bay is scattered with nearly 2,000 small islands and rocky outcrops that rise straight from the sea.
Besides the flavorful rice, the condiments served with this Malaysian dish are truly exceptional. If you're expecting the same old Nasi Kerabu Kelantan you've had before, you might be disappointed (BUNGA KANTAN/GINGER TORCH RAW SALAD).
How about a raw salad? It's convenient and saves time (EASY VEGETARIAN SALAD RECIPES) - just prepare the ingredients, then toss and stir. However, remember that raw salads should be eaten immediately. Otherwise, they lose their crunchiness and freshness, and won't look as appealing.
Cambodia
is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Southeast Asia, and its
crown jewel is undeniably Angkor Wat. Angkor Wat, the legendary, world-famous
temple complex and a top highlight in Cambodia (ANGKOR WAT CAMBODIA). But beyond the awe-inspiring
ruins, Cambodia holds a painful and unforgettable past, one you can discover at
Wat Thmey, also known as the Killing Fields of Siem Reap.
Located along Sivatha Road, Wat Thmey may not appear on every traveler’s must-visit list, nor is it often promoted as one of the top tourist attractions in Cambodia. However, for those who wish to understand Cambodia’s tragic history, this site offers a sobering and meaningful experience (MOUNT MERAPI INDONESIA TOUR).
Simplicity shines in Sodhi, the Indian coconut milk
stew. This much-loved dish also finds a cherished place in cuisines from other
parts of the world, like Sri Lanka and especially Kerala. Making Sodhi is
effortless: just add all the ingredients to a pot, simmer, season with lime
juice and salt, and you're done.
You can create various types of Sodhi, and to make it a one-pot dish, adding vegetables is a great option. I often do this to keep the dish interesting and avoid monotony. Plus, it saves me the trouble of preparing a separate vegetable dish (EASY VEGETARIAN TOFU RECIPES).
Ladies and gentlemen, let’s talk about vegetarian
mutton. This isn’t your typical mock or meatless product; it’s made from
mushrooms and mushroom stalks. It's a healthier alternative to many mock meats
that often contain artificial flavoring and coloring. When purchasing
vegetarian mutton, be sure to check the label for ingredients that specify it
is made from mushrooms.
I find vegetarian mutton to be a delightful option, although I don't consume it regularly to avoid overindulging. Remember, moderation is key to a healthy diet. In this post, I’ll share five effortless recipes featuring vegetarian mutton, all made from pantry-friendly ingredients.
For an urban gardener like me, growing veggies, herbs, and fruits is incredibly fulfilling. These are for our own consumption. Amongst what I grow are tapioca, sweet potatoes, and recently, I’ve added purple yam. While I haven’t experimented with purple yam leaves yet, tapioca leaves and sweet potato leaves are absolutely wonderful when transformed into a Malay dish (NASI ULAM/HERBED RICE RECIPES) known as Masak Lemak.
Rightly so, a "wonder of Southeast Asia," a "man-made wonder," and a "must-see ancient wonder." It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, drawing thousands of visitors throughout the year.
Balado is a spicy Indonesian chili sauce, or sambal, that’s both versatile and fiery, depending on how many red chilies you use. Originating from West Sumatra, it’s a key feature in Padang-style cooking and often served with mixed rice dishes across Indonesia (KERABU MANGGA/MANGO SALAD). Made by blending red chilies with shallots, garlic, and a touch of lime, balado can be used raw or sautéed until aromatic (TAMARIND FISH).
It’s delicious on its own as a condiment or as a base for dishes like Ikan Balado (fish in chili sauce). You can prepare balado ahead of time and store it for adding to rice meals, vegetables, or other protein dishes whenever you need a spicy kick (FRIED FISH WITH ASAM SAUCE).
Recall our discussion on sago in "EFFORDLESS MALAY DESSERTS"? Let's delve into it again, this time focusing on Kuih Kukus Sago/Steamed Sago Cakes. Despite their delightful flavor, they consistently turned out too sticky. Even after coating them with fresh grated coconut, they clung to fingers, prompting me to serve them in a saucer with a fork, which is actually how the cakes should be served, to prevent spillage and mess on the floor. Baffled by their stickiness, I experimented with various methods: steaming, cooking with water until thick, and chilling. Yet, none resolved the issue.
It was once called Saigon during French colonial rule in the 19th century, and you can still see the influence in its colonial buildings and street layout. After Vietnam’s reunification in 1975, it was renamed to honor leader Ho Chi Minh.
Today, the city is developed and growing fast. While not everyone speaks English, most tour guides can speak it well and are trained to help tourists. Sightseeing is easy and enjoyable with a guide (BANGKOK THAILAND TRAVEL).
Kerabu
Mango or Mango Salad is a beloved and well-known Asian mango dish, especially
popular in Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Malaysia. While the core
ingredients are similar - green mango, chilies, herbs, and a tangy dressing, each
country adds its own local touch. It's called Kerabu Mangga (VEGETARIAN OKRA SALAD/KERABU BENDI) in Malaysia, Som
Tum Mamuang in Thailand, Gỏi Xoài in Vietnam, Nhoam Svay in Cambodia, and Rujak
Mangga in Indonesia.
This raw mango salad is easy to prepare at home, including vegetarian versions of kerabu mangga or mango salad. The method is effortless: just slice, mix, and toss the ingredients together. Some versions include roasted white sesame seeds, but the crunch of affordable roasted or fried peanuts often steals the food show (VEGETARIAN HERBED RICE/NASI ULAM).
Every beloved and timeless dish, salted fish curry is something I’ve made countless times. Each time, there’s a twist that brings a new variation. While the core ingredients remain the same, the types of beans can vary - from mochakottai (field beans), chickpeas, or kondakadalai (chana dal). Additional ingredients like potatoes, brinjals, white radish, okra, or murungakkai (moringa fruits/sticks) offer endless possibilities (SOUTH INDIAN FISH CURRY RECIPES).
Rangoon Creeper, or Combretum Indicum, is also known as Drunken Sailor, Akar Dani, Chinese Honeysuckle, and Red Jasmine. This charming plant originates from Southeast Asia, particularly Myanmar. Its name pays tribute to Rangoon, now known as Yangon. In Nava's Zen garden, it brings both beauty and fragrance (ROSELLE - BENEFITS & USES).
Fragrance and
Blooms
Rangoon Creeper isn’t just about its appearance; its scent is truly captivating. The sweet, fruity aroma fills the air, creating a serene and relaxing ambiance. The flowers begin as delicate white buds and gradually transition into clusters of rich red blooms. Over time, the slender stems grow into strong, lush vines, perfect for adorning pergolas or trellises.
(Updated Version)
I’ve traveled all over Thailand, from Hyathai to
Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, over the span of 10 years. It’s been an amazing
journey of discovery. Along the way, I indulged in Thai cuisine, picking up
cooking tips from every dish I tasted and experienced. My love for Thai food
runs deep (THAI GREEN EGG CURRY) - so much so that I had already started cooking Thai dishes long
before I set foot in the country.
Of course, there were a few hits and misses. Take the Siamese Laksa I had at a small Muslim Thai roadside eatery in Chiang Mai - not the best, to be honest. But hey, that’s part of traveling and tasting all kinds of food, right? It’s about discovering for yourself. And if the food doesn’t meet your expectations, it’s all part of the learning curve. No need to complain, sulk, or belittle the experience - because you can't always expect the best (CHIANG MAI & CHIANG RAI: AN ENRICHING TOUR).
Common toppings include hard-boiled egg, fried tofu, green onions, bean sprouts, and occasionally crispy shallots. I've had the pleasure of trying various renditions of mee rebus, both from restaurants and street vendors. Interestingly, some of the most satisfying versions I've encountered have been from street vendors, often at a more affordable price.
Booking a tour saves time and avoids the hassle of negotiating with tuk-tuk drivers, helping you steer clear of unwanted issues such as language barriers or drivers insisting on tips. It’s a more convenient and structured approach to sightseeing in Bangkok.
Whether you choose to stay overnight in Ayutthaya or prefer a day trip from Bangkok (BANGKOK TOP ATTRACTIONS), exploring the ancient city is convenient and accessible. Most hotels in Bangkok and local tour operators offer affordable packages to Ayutthaya, with transport included. These tours typically handle all the arrangements, including pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation. If you're heading out in the morning, be ready by 7:00 AM. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours, depending on traffic. (KULLU MANALI INDIA SIGHTSEEING).
Rasam, often referred to as Indian Pepper Soup, needs little introduction (CRAB RASAM RECIPES). Light, healthy, and flavorful, it’s a staple in Indian households. For us, rasam is often the star of the meal, pairing wonderfully with a variety of dishes. As seen in the photo above, rasam is a versatile companion to spinach cooked in coconut milk, pan-grilled turmeric curry leaf tofu, and a spicy fish dish. For vegetarians, it can easily be paired with a range of vegetarian sides (EASIEST MALAYSIAN VEGETARIAN NASI LEMAK).
There’s plenty to experience. The best things to do in Bangkok often revolve around its legendary landmarks and classic tourist spots. No matter your travel style, the top attractions in Bangkok continue to draw visitors. These sightseeing spots are must-visits at least once, whether or not you plan to return again.
Petai, also known as stink beans, may not be everyone’s favourite, but they are much loved in Malaysia and Indonesia. Packed with health ben...
