Saturday, June 14, 2025

5 Simple Mental Health Tips for Daily Well-Being

Yoga instructor standing outdoors, stretching both arms out, surrounded by green nature.
Mental health awareness has grown significantly, but it remains a major challenge in the fast-paced 21st century. This issue affects not only adults but also younger generations and children. The rush, hustle, and bustle of modern urban life have dramatically changed our lifestyles, often impacting mental wellness. The struggles in the mind are real, and instead of letting life’s pressures overwhelm us, it’s time to fasten our seatbelts and take action to protect our mental well-being (NATURE MENTAL HEALTH BENEFITS).

Tuesday, June 10, 2025

Bread Pudding Recipe: Malaysian Style

Bread pudding with screwpine leaves extract, milk, eggs, sugar, and butter in a clear square Pyrex dish.
When it comes to bread pudding, it's all about waste not, want not. This Malaysian-style bread pudding is my go-to when I need to use up near-expiry bread slices - crusts included (VEGETARIAN EASY BREAD PUDDING). No waste, no fuss. And when you add the beautiful aroma of pandan leaves (screwpine), you get that unmistakable local Malaysian flavour.

This is a healthier version of bread pudding. Instead of condensed milk, which is often too rich and sugary, I use plain carton milk and go easy on the sugar. You can even swap in coconut milk if you prefer a richer, creamier texture.

Saturday, June 7, 2025

Best Tourist Spots in South India, India

Indian lady in traditional punjabi attire, with head wrapped in scarf, with both palms together in an Indian temple.
South India comprises several states in the southern part of India - Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Kerala (TOURIST PLACES IN KERALA). Our nine-day trip began in Bengaluru, Karnataka, and continued to Mysuru (also in Karnataka) and Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. Though this was another solo trip for me, I joined a tour group of about 20 people, traveling by coach from one destination to another.

Bengaluru, Karnataka

Lalbagh Botanical Garden

Spanning over 240 acres, Lalbagh Botanical Garden is one of Bengaluru’s must-visit attractions. Established in 1760 by Hyder Ali, it features more than 1,000 plant species from across the world. The garden’s highlight is the Glass House, which hosts an annual flower show inspired by London’s Crystal Palace.

Tuesday, June 3, 2025

Holistic Wellness: 5 Quick Yoga Tips

Yoga instructor stands on a chair, one leg bend, hands on the wall in an advanced standing pose.
What Is Holistic Wellness

Key “holistic wellness” into any search engine and dozens of definitions pop up. Most say roughly the same thing. Ask Ms. Nava, founder of Nava’s Zen Holistic Wellness, and she’ll tell you this:

 

Holistic Wellness is about your complete self - your whole package inside and out - linked to everything that matters to you: where you live, what you do, who you’re with, and when you do it. It’s the connection you discover between breath, body, mind, and soul.

Saturday, May 31, 2025

How to Make Fried Banana Chips - Indian Style

Some Indian style crispy fried green banana chips in a plastic cannister.
Always a favorite, don’t you agree? Fried Banana Chips are a staple in my home - whether as a crispy snack or a crunchy side dish for vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals. I’ve made these Indian-style banana chips countless times, and they never fail to satisfy (CRISPY FRIED BITTER GOURD).

This recipe is pure vegetarian, vegan, and plant-based, made using raw green bananas - known as Valakkai in Tamil. You might hear them referred to as Valakkai chips or sometimes Valakkai poriyal, although poriyal typically refers to stir-fries (FRIED CAULIFLOWER RECIPES).

Tuesday, May 27, 2025

Kopitiam Review: Kawan Place Kota Kemuning

Facade and main entrance of a kopitiam with a signboard mounted above, located on a corner lot.
Located on a corner lot in Kota Kemuning, Shah Alam, Selangor, Kawan Place offers a choice of indoor or outdoor seating. Green is their highlight color - seen on the signboard, façade, and dining area - while the overall ambiance feels clean and welcoming. We arrived on a Monday at about 11:15 a.m.; as we entered the indoor dining area, we noticed a few customers tucking into their meals at the outside pavement dining area (WHERE TO EAT IN PERAK).

Saturday, May 24, 2025

Chinese Steamed Chicken Recipe

Steamed chicken with ginger, cabbage, and spring onions on a silver oblong serving tray.
By far, the easiest, simplest, and most uncomplicated Chinese steamed chicken recipe. This is a homemade version, not to be compared with restaurant-style steamed chicken. Mine is different - I've added my own twist while keeping it budget-friendly (NO-COOK EASY CHICKEN SALAD).

Steamed food is generally healthier than fried food, and this Chinese steamed chicken is no exception. The minimalist cooking method keeps it light and clean. It’s perfect for a light dinner, and if you’re having an early meal, pair it with a small portion of rice. You can also discard the chicken skin if you prefer a leaner version (CHICKEN RENDANG RECIPE).

Tuesday, May 20, 2025

Mental Health Benefits of Nature

Yoga instructor performing chair pose facing the sky in a garden.
In today’s fast-paced urban life, the focus - or rather, the unspoken truth - is on success, achievements, and fame. The daily grind, constant hustling, and overwhelming traffic and pollution contribute to rising stress, burnout, and mental exhaustion. The digital age has also introduced screen fatigue and a culture of prolonged sitting, both of which negatively impact our overall well-being (BENEFITS OF BUTTERFLY BLUE PEA FLOWER).

Sunday, May 18, 2025

Best Turmeric Rice Recipe: Rice Cooker Style

Turmeric rice made with turmeric powder, rice, pecans, raisins, butter, water, and salt.
Turmeric rice is not just delicious - it's a golden symbol of wellness and cultural fusion. At the heart of this dish is turmeric powder, an essential spice in Indian cooking and a celebrated ingredient worldwide for its numerous health benefits (HOMEMADE EASY MANGO CHUTNEY). With the rise of healthy eating and holistic wellness, turmeric has earned its place in kitchens around the globe.

In this recipe, turmeric is the star ingredient, delivering its signature golden hue and earthy, peppery flavor. You might ask, why is this the best turmeric rice recipe? Well, during one of my best memorable travels - to South Africa - I learned to make South African Yellow Rice, a dish influenced by the Indian community there (PRETORIA SOUTH AFRICA MOMENTS).

Tuesday, May 13, 2025

5 Common Mistakes to Avoid If You’re Planning to Remodel Your Kitchen

A kitchen remodel can be an exciting project, but it’s also very complex and involves different kinds of components. Hence, it’s easy to overlook details that can create major problems down the line and lead to overspending.  

While homeowners often think of what they should do to create their dream kitchen, it’s equally important to understand what they shouldn’t do, ensuring a seamless and successful transformation of their culinary space. Below, we outline the most common mistakes homeowners make when remodelling their kitchens so that you can sidestep them and create a kitchen that’s practical and aesthetic at the same time.

Saturday, May 10, 2025

Vegetarian White Bee Hoon Recipe - Indian Style

Blanched bee hoon, stir fried with dried chilies, curry leaves, mustard seeds, shallots and cabbage.
A timeless classic, this Vegetarian White Bee Hoon Indian Style brings back the nostalgia of humble, home-cooked meals. Known for its simplicity, affordability, and wholesome ingredients, this dish is a favourite in Indian households (MEE GORENG/FRIED MEE).

Back in the day, it was a go-to budget-friendly meal for families like mine (EASIEST EGG FRIED RICE) Today, it’s appreciated for its clean, healthy ingredients and nostalgic value. This easy stir-fried white bee hoon (also known as rice vermicelli) is rich in fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, and antioxidants - thanks to cabbage, curry leaves, mustard seeds, chillies, and shallots.

Tuesday, May 6, 2025

Where to Eat in Perak: A Foodie’s Guide

Lady tucking into chicken chop meal in a Chinese restaurant.
Perak is one of Malaysia’s states where food is never in short supply. From hawker stalls and humble street setups to upscale restaurants and hotel dining, you’ll find a variety of hearty meals. As for us, we chose to go with the flow (WHAT TO DO IN PERAK) - stopping wherever caught our attention instead of planning too much. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or you're a curious local (CAMERON HIGHLANDS TRAVEL GUIDE), this guide shares some of the must-try eateries we explored across Perak.

Little House Café (Jalan Stesen, Tapah)

A quick online search while passing through Tapah brought us to this old-school, humble kopitiam. We ordered Black Pepper Chicken Chop, Hainanese Chicken Chop with fries, Fish Soy Rice Set, and Petai Squid Rice Set. Every dish was satisfying, home-style, and generous in portion. Halal Malaysian fusion at an affordable price—definitely worth stopping for. (WHERE & WHAT TO EAT IN PENANG). Even as a small eater, I finished my Hainanese Chicken Chop!

Saturday, May 3, 2025

Pepper Mutton Curry/Masala Recipe

Spicy mutton curry cooked with black pepper, spices, and curry leaves.
When it comes to mutton, it's a staple in our household - especially for my husband, who insists on having his mutton fix at least once a month (EASY MUTTON DALCHA/LENTIL CURRY). Over time, I’ve experimented with various styles, and this time, it’s Pepper Mutton Curry, also known as Pepper Mutton Masala.

Black pepper is a key ingredient in South Indian mutton dishes, often featured in curry, dry-style masala, or what’s commonly referred to as mutton varuval or roast. My version can be adjusted based on consistency:

More water: Pepper Mutton Curry

Less water: Pepper Mutton Masala

Minimal water: Mutton Roast

Tuesday, April 29, 2025

Adolescents' Global Mental Health Crisis: Holistic Wellness Yoga

Author
Ms. Krishnan N, a Zenpreneur 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
The mental health crisis among adolescents has become a global concern, with rising rates of stress, anxiety, and emotional challenges. While traditional approaches to mental health often focus on psychological interventions, holistic wellness through practices such as yoga has gained recognition as an effective remedy. Yoga, which integrates breathwork, physical postures, and mindfulness, offers a unique solution to promote mental health, physical wellness, and emotional resilience among adolescents. This article explores the potential of yoga, focusing on its holistic approach to well-being and its benefits in addressing mental health issues faced by adolescents.

Saturday, April 26, 2025

What to Do in Perak: Travel Guide

Woman standing with arms stretched on a long, iconic ancient bridge.
Our travel adventure in Perak continued, revealing a blend of well-known destinations and hidden gems (DISCOVER PERAK: MUST SEE & HIDDEN GEMS) Some of these travel discoveries were truly worth experiencing - especially if you love exploring beyond typical tourist trails. We used Ipoh as our base for the night and journeyed outwards, spending solid hours on the road. But for travelers who don’t mind driving a bit, it’s definitely worth the time and effort (KUALA KUBU BHARU: A DAY TRIP).

Gunung Lang Recreational Park (Ipoh)

For nature lovers visiting Ipoh, Gunung Lang Recreational Park is a fulfilling stop. This serene escape, surrounded by limestone hills and a tranquil lake, is one of Ipoh’s scenic gems. Ideal for a breather from city life, it’s a place to slow down and admire nature. We spent about 15 minutes by the lake and chose not to explore further into the park’s trails (EXPLORING BETONG, THAILAND).

Tuesday, April 22, 2025

Sardine Sambal/Sambal Sardin: Canned Sardine Recipe

One canned sardines with the sauce, cooked with chillies, lemongrass & turmeric leaf.
Our sardine cooking story? Nothing extraordinary. Like many Malaysians, we’ve experimented with canned sardines more than a few times. In fact, we’ve already shared a list of canned sardine recipes (SARDINE VARUVAL DRY STYLE), and yes, they’re all fiery. Why? Because for us Malaysians, spiciness is a must-have in every meal. Without it, we’ll still find our way to a spicy dip or sliced chillies in soy sauce on the side (TOFU SAMBAL RECIPE).

Enter Sardine Sambal, or as we say it in Bahasa Malaysia - Sambal Sardin. But what makes this version unique? It’s not just another spicy sardine dish. This one stands out, thanks to a special touch: Nava’s Zen organic urban gardening produce. The attached video shows it all - don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel for more food stories and lifestyle content.

Saturday, April 19, 2025

Smith's Diner (Kota Kemuning): Western Food Review

White and black signboard mounted above the entrance of a Western restaurant.
The latest buzz in Kota Kemuning, Shah Alam, Selangor - Smith’s Diner caught our attention through a Facebook food group. Curious and ready to explore, we headed over last Sunday.To beat the weekend crowd, we arrived early at 6:30 PM and were the first two customers of the evening.

The ambiance? Nothing overly fancy, but pleasantly inviting. The interior is clean, cosy, and tastefully simple - just the right setting for a relaxed dining experience.

Tuesday, April 15, 2025

Easy Indian Creamed Spinach Curry (Vegetarian)

A bowl of Indian curry, cooked with Brazilian spinach, coconut milk, shallots, turmeric, red chillies, and curry leaves.
Spinach is a regular favourite in my kitchen - healthy, nutrient-packed, and so versatile. Over time, I’ve experimented with countless spinach recipes (COCONUT CREAMED SPINACH RECIPE), but this one comes with a twist: Brazilian Spinach.

Have you heard of it? Are you growing it yet? You should! This glossy, luscious green thrives even in pots and fits beautifully into spaghetti, noodles, soups - and now, into this Indian-style curry (HOW TO GROW BRAZILIAN SPINACH).

Saturday, April 12, 2025

Discover Perak: Must-See Attractions & Hidden Gems

Woman standing in front of a banyan tree, surrounded by nature.
Perak is packed with must-see attractions and unexpected hidden gems. Our journey was unplanned, guided only by road signs that pointed us to well-known sites and surprising discoveries. Town by town, city by city, we explored Perak in the most spontaneous way, uncovering places that made the trip truly memorable (CAMERON HIGHLANDS TRAVEL GUIDE).

HOGA Gaharu Tea Valley (Gopeng)

A road sign led us to HOGA Gaharu Tea Valley, expecting just another tea plantation. Instead, we found a breathtaking valley of Gaharu (Agarwood) trees. The drive uphill, passing rows of young and mature trees, was mesmerizing - a true escape into nature.

Tuesday, April 8, 2025

Raub SYC Hainan Kopitiam Review

Signboard of Chinese eatery mounted atop at the entrance with a banner below.bove
I missed the chance to dine at Raub SYC Hainan Kopitiam during my visit to Raub last year (RAUB, TRAS, PAHANG VISIT) Not a major setback, as they’ve since expanded to Kota Kemuning, Setapak, and USJ. Naturally, the Kota Kemuning outlet was the most convenient, located near Nava’s Zen in Kemuning Greenville.

I visited on a mid-week morning around 9:30 AM. The kopitiam had a spacious and clean ambiance, with about half of the seating occupied and a steady stream of customers. The menu offered a wide selection, and it took some time for the three of us to decide.

Saturday, April 5, 2025

Lou Ho Kee Kopitiam: Uptown Rimbayu, Selangor

Green, white, and orange kopitiam signboard mounted atop the shop.
Opened just about two months ago, Lou Ho Kee Kopitiam joins the growing list of Chinese coffeeshops, now commonly known as kopitiams. Located in Uptown Rimbayu, Bandar Rimbayu, Teluk Panglima Garang, Selangor, this eatery came recommended by someone who knows we’re always on the lookout for new food spots (PENANG FOOD GUIDE: WHERE & WHAT TO EAT).

Upon arrival, we were momentarily confused by the two corner-lot units side by side, separated by a lane. Unsure at first, we entered the right one and soon realized that both share the same ambiance - modern yet reminiscent of a high-end kopitiam. The corridor housing the food stalls is impressively clean, adding to the inviting atmosphere.

Tuesday, April 1, 2025

Tofu Sambal Recipe: Easy & Spicy Tofu Dish

Spicy tofu sambal coated in a tangy chili sauce in a white Pyrex.
Finding a sambal recipe in our space means sambal recipes will keep popping up (SPICY EGGS RECIPE). There are many variations, but the core ingredients remain the same. And for us, tofu and sambal are always favorites (TOFU VEGETARAIN STEW RECIPE).

But why not tweak and modify recipes to make them your own? Cooking is all about adding a personal touch and creativity, wouldn’t you agree? I’ve made Tofu Sambal (Spicy Tofu) countless times, especially for our vegetarian meals, and each time, there’s a small tweak - another version, another delicious outcome (NYONYA PRAWN SAMBAL RECIPE).

Saturday, March 29, 2025

Malay Mix Rice Food Review: Gerai MBSA Shah Alam

Malaysian food court signboard along the road with two ground slits.
By pure chance, we stumbled upon Gerai MBSA, Shah Alam (G-03, SEKSYEN 31, Jalan Anggerik Mokara 31/50, Kota Kemuning). Essentially a food court, it wasn’t fully packed, but a few tables were already occupied with diners enjoying their meals. Arriving early for lunch gave us time to stroll around and scan the stalls before deciding (UCU TALAPIA TERBANG, JALAN BANI, SHAH ALAM).

Among the ample choices, Lailatif Café caught our attention. Freshly cooked dishes were already on display - tempting and mouthwatering. Here, it’s all about self-service: scoop your own rice and pick from a variety of dishes. Trust me, deciding wasn’t easy, especially on an empty stomach.

Tuesday, March 25, 2025

Easy Pickled Brinjal/Eggplant Recipe

A plate of pickled brinjal with turmeric, ginger, garlic, chillies, shallots, vinegar, sugar, bay leaf, and salt.
Pickled brinjal (or eggplant), also known as brinjal vinaigrette, is a dish you can make ahead and store in the fridge (HOMEMADE EASY MANGO CHUTNEY). Just be sure to use a clean, dry spoon each time you scoop some out. Enjoy it as a side, an accompaniment, or even layered in a burger (NO-COOK CHICKEN SALAD).

This easy, no-fuss pickle works with brinjal, eggplant, or aubergine. At Nava’s Zen, we use homegrown bird’s eye chilies and bay leaves (BAY LEAVES: HEALTH BENEFITS & COOKING USES) - because why grow your own food if not to cook with it? But no worries if you don’t have fresh bay leaves - dried ones work just fine.

Tuesday, March 18, 2025

Vegetarian Spaghetti Recipe - Malaysian Style

Plate of Malaysian vegetarian spaghetti, with tofu, red chillies, cheese and crispy coriander in a spicy, creamy sauce.
This spicy, creamy Malaysian-style vegetarian spaghetti is a flavor-packed twist on a classic favorite. Have you tried making vegetarian spaghetti (VEGETARIAN NOODLE SOUP) before? Whether you're a pro or a first-timer, this Malaysian-style vegetarian spaghetti recipe is a must-try! It's spicy, creamy, tangy, and aromatic - a flavor explosion you won’t find anywhere else (MEE GORENG/FRIED MEE).

This special recipe is created by Ms. Nava, founder of Nava’s Zen, blending Malaysian flavors with a pasta favorite. The ingredients are easy to find and budget-friendly - except for the cheese, which can be a splurge. But don’t worry, the flavors hold up even without it.

Saturday, March 15, 2025

Beginner’s Guide to 5 Easy Herbs for Urban Gardening

A woman holding a packet of fertilizer and applying it to big trees.
Growing herbs successfully depends largely on climate. It’s essential to know which herbs thrive in your region, as what grows easily in tropical climates may struggle in four-season countries (EASY GARDENING: SEED SOWING FOR BEGINNERS). Through experience, we’ve learned that some herbs suited for cooler climates simply don’t do well in our environment. 

The herbs we’re sharing here are ideal for Southeast Asia, where temperatures are warm, and rainfall varies throughout the year. While we grow them directly in the ground due to available space, these herbs can also be cultivated in pots.

Tuesday, March 11, 2025

Homemade Easy Mango Chutney Recipe

Indian mango chutney displayed on banana leaves atop a round dish.

Is mango chutney a favorite? This spicy, tangy, and sweet delight often makes its way onto Indian vegetarian meal spreads or appears during special religious and cultural festivals. Traditionally, it's made with chili powder, giving it a deep reddish hue. (BEST MANGO CURRY RECIPE).

 

But this version? It’s truly unique and outstanding - a bright, vibrant yellow mango chutney made with simple kitchen staples. Our chilies and curry leaves come straight from Nava's Zen garden, and the mango? A kind gift from our neighbor (MANGO PICKLES & MANGO SALAD RECIPES).

 

Let’s cook, foodies!

Saturday, March 8, 2025

Food Review: CUK Bakery & Cafe (Bandar Rimbayu)

Halal bakery café with a welcoming atmosphere, rustic and white décor.
CUK Bakery & Café, with CUF short for Cikgu Una, is located in Bandar Rimbayu, Telok Panglima Garang, Selangor. The moment I stepped in, I was drawn to the ambiance. Though the space is limited - it’s a single lot, rather compact, with minimal space between tables - the rustic décor, cleanliness, and cozy setting make it warm and inviting. What made it even more endearing was the staff’s friendly nature. Their genuine smiles and welcoming attitude added to the comfort as I waited for my lunch companion.

Tuesday, March 4, 2025

Easy Lamb in Soy Sauce Recipe | Flavorful & Quick to Make

Lamb cooked in soy sauce with lemongrass, bird’s eye chilies and turmeric leaves in a thick sauce.
Mutton is usually the go-to in my household (MUTTON & LAMB RENDANG RECIPES), but every now and then, lamb takes the spotlight. Wondering what sets them apart? Lamb comes from young sheep, making it tender and mild, while mutton, from older sheep, has a richer, gamier taste and requires longer cooking. That said, I prefer pressure-cooking lamb - it speeds up the process while ensuring soft, succulent meat (SIMPLE & HEARTY LAMB SOUP RECIPE).

Saturday, March 1, 2025

10 Things to Know Before Starting a Business

Starting a business sounds exciting. Many in their early twenties now choose entrepreneurship over traditional jobs. But if you've tried and failed or are just getting started, this guide will help you think before taking the plunge (RESILIENCE OF AN OLDER INDIAN WOMAN ENTREPRENEUR).

Before you dive in, watch this video.

Wednesday, February 26, 2025

Kopitiam Number One Rimbayu: Hawker Food Worth Trying?

Partial close-up of a Chinese Coffeeshop, Kopitiam, showing a wall menu with various bread and beverage options.
It was yet another recommendation for us to try a different Kopitiam - Kopitiam Number One Rimbayu (Teluk Panglima Garang, Selangor), a branch of Kopitiam Number One Seri Muda. Like most kopitiams in Malaysia, this one was located on a corner lot. Parking was a breeze, especially since we arrived early, just before 11:30 AM, to secure a table. As soon as we walked in, my handphone camera was already in action, capturing the scene (PENANG MAINLAND FOOD ADVENTURES).

Watch the YouTube Shorts Video to see our food adventure at Kopitiam Number One Rimbayu before I share more.

Sunday, February 23, 2025

Easy Pumpkin Barley Dessert Recipe

Dessert made with barley, pumpkin pieces, screwpine leaves, and rock sugar, fully cooked and ready to serve.
Back in the day, I loved baking and making all sorts of desserts. But over the years, I’ve come to appreciate simplicity - desserts that don’t take hours to prepare (DURIAN SWEET PORRIDGE). More importantly, I want something that can be stored in the fridge for a couple of days, ready whenever I crave a little sweetness.

It’s hard to resist desserts (CHINESE EASY DESSERT - LENG CHEE KANG), but making them yourself means you control the sugar - whether you prefer a little, none at all, or just the natural sweetness from ingredients like pumpkin. Pumpkin Barley Dessert, or Barley Pumpkin (EASY PUMPKIN SOUP), is all about simplicity. With just a few budget-friendly ingredients and a gentle simmer, you’ll have a comforting, effortless treat.

Thursday, February 20, 2025

Cameron Highlands (Pahang) Ultimate Travel Guide

Indian lady seated on a stone deck, against a nature garden with plants.
With a few sightseeing spots lined up, our hotel-arranged transport arrived at 11 AM (CAMERON HIGHTLANDS WHAT TO DO). Driven by a friendly local driver, we set off to explore some of Cameron Highlands' must-visit attractions. 

Lavender Garden (Cameron Lavender)

Also known as Cameron Lavender, this vibrant garden is a feast for the senses. The RM20.00 entrance fee (per person) is well worth it for the mesmerizing purple blooms and other colorful flowers. A perfect spot for social media-worthy photos and videos, the garden buzzes with visitors even on weekdays (WHAT TO DO IN PULAU KETAM).

Saturday, February 15, 2025

No-Cook Easy Chicken Salad & Salsa: Healthy Recipes

Chicken Salsa with steamed chicken, pineapple, tomato, salad leaves, chillies, spring onions, lime juice, and salt.
Looking for a quick, healthy, and no-cook meal? We’ve got two easy chicken salad recipes for you - both perfect for repurposing leftover chicken, whether it’s roasted, steamed, or fried. You can even use chicken from a curry. Instead of letting leftovers go to waste, turn them into a delicious, protein-packed dish in minutes (NO-COOK BOILED PEANUT SALAD).

Both recipes are essentially chicken salad, but the first one, with its fresh and zesty twist, can also be considered Chicken Salsa - which is why we’ve given it a name of its own . You can check out the attached YouTube video for a step-by-step guide. The second is a classic Chicken Salad - simple, nutritious, and just as delicious (COCONUT CHICKEN CURRY)

Wednesday, February 12, 2025

Cameron Highlands Trip: What to Do

Malaysian female tourist in jeans and t-shirt, lying on her back in a stylish hotel room, enjoying a moment of relaxation.
A break from the city’s hustle and monotony - off we went to Cameron Highlands. No rush, no pressure, no fixed itinerary, just a leisurely drive (A DAY TRIP TO SEKINCHAN). Being an off-peak season and a weekday, traffic was manageable, making the journey all the more enjoyable. A late brunch along the way, and with anticipation building, we looked forward to the cool, crisp air of Cameron Highlands.

Saturday, February 8, 2025

Spicy Eggs Recipe: Resepi Telur Balado Indonesia

A bowl of four boiled and fried eggs, in a red chili-based sauce, lime leaves scented.
Eggs again? Why not! This time, let’s spice things up with Telur Balado, an Indonesian-style spicy egg dish. Think of it as a sambal-infused delight - bold, fiery, and packed with flavor (EGG SAMBAL RECIPE). But of course, Ms. Nava’s twist makes it even better.

The star here is the Balado sauce, a versatile Indonesian sambal that works beyond just eggs (EASIEST EGG FRIED RICE RECIPE). Use it to stir-fry veggies, coat crispy fried fish, or even jazz up poultry. Got more ideas? Go for it (SURAKARTA - INDONESIA'S HEARBEAT TRAVEL).

Wednesday, February 5, 2025

Xiang Bak Kut Teh – Kota Kemuning (Shah Alam)

Traditional Chinese food outlet with a poster showcasing the history and founder on one wall.
On this particular Saturday afternoon, I walked into Xiang Kota Kemuning, a branch of the  Klang Original Xiang Bak Kut Teh, right as they opened at 11:15 AM. As the first customer, I had the freedom to choose my seat. The ambiance, with its classic Chinese design,  made me feel at home - it was exactly the kind of setting you'd expect for an a Bak Kut Teh meal (EASY INSTANT BAK KUT TEH RECIPE).

For those who prefer a visual representation, I’ve captured my experience at Xiang in a video (see below). Don’t forget to subscribe to our Nava’s Zen Channel for more updates. Subscribe Now. But for those who prefer reading, let me share my experience.

Friday, January 31, 2025

No-Cook Boiled Peanut Salad Recipe

No-cook salad made with boiled peanuts, zucchini, tomato, shallots, coriander leaves, with a tangy, sweet dressing.
Isn’t this such a refreshing, eye-catching, and mouthwatering salad? It absolutely is! The best part? No cooking required - just a handful of simple ingredients and a quick toss, and you have a salad bursting with flavor (MANGO SALAD RECIPE). Boiled peanuts, also known as braised peanuts, add a soft, nutty bite, while fresh tomatoes, cucumber, shallots, and chilies bring in crunch and a refreshing contrast.

Monday, January 27, 2025

Durian Food Eatery - Durians Atok, Selangor, Malaysia

Two staff members at a durian outlet, facing away, breaking open durians to remove the fruits inside.
Our Sunday food adventure brought us to Durians Atok, tucked away in Kampung Jalan Kebun, Shah Alam. I stumbled upon this eatery while searching for places near Nava’s Zen (just 10 minutes away), and what a discovery it turned out to be. By 11:30 AM, this unassuming spot was already packed, but we managed to grab a table just as someone was leaving.

Friday, January 24, 2025

Salted Fish Sambal Recipe: Sambal Ikan Asin

Spicy salted fish dish made with dried chili paste, shrimp paste, shallots, garlic, and lime juice.
Sambal Ikan Asin, or salted fish sambal, is a cherished Malaysian classic. This flavorful dish is a staple for those who enjoy rice meals, with salted fish sambal serving as the ideal side or accompaniment to a variety of dishes. Simple yet incredibly rewarding, the recipe calls for just a few pantry-friendly ingredients. While there are numerous variations, the core ingredients remain unchanged (PRAWN SAMBAL RECIPE).

Restoran Kopitiam Number One (Taman Sri Muda) Shah Alam

Big red signboard with yellow lettering for a Chinese coffeeshop, mounted above the front entrance.
Recommended by a friend, we decided to visit Restoran Kopitiam Number One, a corner-lot Chinese coffee shop, on a Saturday. Parking was a bit of a challenge; it took a few rounds before we finally found a spot. Arriving around 11:30 a.m., we were greeted by an array of hawker stalls offering a modest yet varied selection of food. As expected of a traditional coffee shop, staples like bread toast with eggs and hot beverages shared the spotlight with other local favorites.

Wednesday, January 22, 2025

Best Teriyaki Salmon Recipe

Close-up of spicy fried salmon in a soy-based sauce, garnished with fresh spring onions and white sesame seeds.
Why is this the Best Teriyaki Salmon Recipe, you ask? Well, it’s my very own kitchen invention - a unique fusion of Indian and Japanese flavors. The secret lies in the combination of familiar kitchen staples, which I’m sure you already have on hand.

Here’s the twist: the salmon (TANDOORI SALMON RECIPE) is first fried to crispy, spicy perfection before being topped with a luscious teriyaki sauce. Can you imagine the taste? Think spicy, crispy salmon with a delightful balance of saltiness and tanginess, garnished with the fresh aroma of spring onions (EASY TIPS FOR GROWING SPRING ONIONS) and the satisfying crunch of sesame seeds.

Tuesday, January 21, 2025

Skin Care: Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Skin Therapy Oil

Outer cardboard packaging for a 60ml skin therapy oil bottle, with listed benefits, light beige background & dark brown text.
Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Skin Therapy Oil is primarily marketed for body care, though it can also be used as a facial beauty product (LOREAL BRIGHT GLOWING DAY CREAM). I’ve been incorporating this oil into my nightly skincare routine for over three weeks, applying it to my face after cleansing and showering. The product combines key ingredients such as Cocoa Butter, Vitamin E, Natural Rosehip Oil, and Argan Oil, and is formulated to be non-comedogenic, providing 48 hours of moisture.

5 Simple Mental Health Tips for Daily Well-Being

Mental health awareness has grown significantly, but it remains a major challenge in the fast-paced 21st century. This issue affects not onl...