Plant-Based Nasi Ulam/Herbs Rice: Culinary Sustainable Living at Nava's Zen

In the current global shift towards healthier living and sustainable practices, the spotlight on plant-based foods has intensified. Beyond our collective concerns for Earth's well-being and the urgent need to address climate change (Human Impact:Climate Crisis), plant-based living has emerged as a pivotal aspect of this transformative movement. This dietary choice (Lemongrass Rice) not only aligns with ethical and environmental considerations but also embodies a profound commitment to personal well-being.

Creative Cooking: Pumpkin Fish Curry

Have you ever considered adding pumpkin (Vegan Pumpkin Soup) to your fish curry? It might sound unusual, even outlandish, but trust me, it's a culinary experiment that's worth trying (). I ventured into uncharted territory with my first attempt at Pumpkin Fish Curry, and the results were nothing short of fabulous (Pumpkin Salted Fish Curry). The inspiration for this dish? Well, it simply popped into my mind during one of my culinary musings.

Curry Leaf Chutney - A Delightful Accompaniment

Growing and caring for my curry leaf plant has been quite a challenge. Despite its lush growth, pesky black bugs often take shelter between the leaves, causing damage. I've tried various methods to get rid of them, but with limited success. So, I resort to pruning the affected parts and allowing the plant to regrow. During one of these pruning sessions, I decided to utilize the bug-free leaves to make some delicious curry leaf chutney.

Curry leaves offer numerous benefits and their delightful aroma is simply irresistible. They are a favorite ingredient in Indian dishes (Kerala Pepper Chicken Curry, Turmeric Cumin Rice & Spinach Lentil). Creating this chutney is surprisingly easy and straightforward. It pairs perfectly as an accompaniment with rice dishes, or as a dipping sauce for idli and dosa. You can enjoy this flavorful curry leaf chutney right away or store the leftovers in the freezer for later use.

Effortless and Flavorful: Easy Potato Sambal/Sambal Kentang Senang

Let's talk about potatoes - a versatile ingredient that offers countless cooking possibilities. Potatoes hold a special place in my household. Whether they're added to curries (Drumstick Potato Curry), stir-fried (Indonesian Potato Tauchu), or prepared as the beloved Potato Sambal, they are always a top favorite, especially on our meatless or vegetarian days. Today, I'm offering this simple this delicious vegetarian dish, designed for minimalists like me who prefer using pantry-friendly ingredients.

Malaysian-Inspired Pork Chop Delight

Today's culinary delight features pork, a personal favorite of mine. Despite my affinity for all things porky, I've noticed a peculiar trend among my Indian acquaintances - they tend to shy away from pork, with many having never even tasted it. The prevailing perception seems to be that pork is a "dirty" meat, although its place in Hinduism, or lack thereof, remains largely unexplored.

In my observation, the reluctance to try pork stems from a preference for familiar foods among Indians - the cuisine they grew up with holds a special place in their hearts. Even my husband, for instance, abstains from pork without being able to articulate a specific reason why. It's a curious quirk of human behavior, isn't it?

Exploring the Flavors of Kerala: A Delectable Pepper Chicken Curry

As an avid traveler with an insatiable wanderlust, I've had the privilege of exploring some parts of the world, and Kerala holds a special place in my heart (Kochi/Cochin). The beauty of its nature and the mouthwatering cuisine make it an unforgettable destination. Among the delightful dishes I encountered during my travels was the Kerala Pepper Chicken Curry. The marriage of crushed pepper, aromatic spices, and creamy coconut milk creates a truly yummilicious delight. Inspired by my culinary adventures (Nadan Meen Curry/Kerala Fish Curry), I've crafted my own modified version of this flavorful curry, utilizing the ingredients available at home. Allow me to share this delightful recipe with you - a taste of Kerala's culinary magic.

Drumstick/Murungai Potato Curry - A Healthy and Flavorful Delight

If you're looking for a delicious and nutritious meatless curry, look no further than the Drumstick/Murungai Potato Curry. Packed with essential nutrients and bursting with flavors, this dish is perfect for vegetarians, vegans, and anyone seeking a wholesome meal. Curries are known for their health benefits, thanks to the powerful spices they contain, including chili powder, which aids digestion and provides relief from constipation and gas. In addition to the spices, the star of this recipe, the murungai (drumsticks) from the moringa tree boasts a host of health benefits, making this curry a true wellness wonder. As part of our Zen life, the drumsticks from Nava's Zen come from our own moringa tree. Let's delve into the recipe and explore its delightful taste and goodness.

How To Design A Vegetarian Dinner Party Menu

Throwing a dinner party is the kind of thing you definitely want to get right, and it’s really something of an art because there’s so much planning and hard work to put into making sure everything goes off smoothly. However, when you get it right, and everyone has a good time, you’ll feel great and proud of what you’ve done, and your guests will have a positive and memorable experience. 

If you have a vegetarian guest, it isn’t always easy to make one dish just for them, and what could be an easier option is to design an entirely vegetarian menu. Not only does this make things easier for you, but it’s probably not something your veggie guest has ever experienced before, so they’ll love it. Plus, if you choose the right food and cook it well, your other guests will enjoy it too, and it might even show them what can be done when meat’s off the menu. With that in mind, here are some tips to help you design a vegetarian menu for your dinner party. 

        Photo by Rene Asmussen  

Sri Lankan Fish Curry/Malu Hodhi - A Modified and Creative Twist!

Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey to Sri Lanka with a mouthwatering fish curry recipe? Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a modified and creative twist on the traditional Malu Hodhi, featuring the delightful flavors of Sri Lankan cuisine. While it may not be an exact replica of the authentic dish, this version is sure to impress with its fusion of spices, coconut milk, and a touch of creativity that makes cooking an artful expression.

Embracing the Fiery Passion: The Indispensable Chillies in Malaysian Cuisine and Gardening

In Malaysia, the love for spiciness runs deep in our culinary culture. Chillies, with their fiery punch, are an essential ingredient that adds a delightful kick to our dishes or serves as a zesty accompaniment. As Malaysians, we simply can't imagine our meals without that familiar spiciness. Whether it's a dash of sliced chillies mixed with lime juice and soy sauce or vinegar-soaked chillies, the craving for that distinct heat on our palates is insatiable. Join me as I share my experiences of seeking chillies abroad, the joys and challenges of gardening them, and the intrinsic connection between chillies and our well-being.

Indian Kachumber Salad: Tangy, Spicy, Crunchy

Are you craving a salad that bursts with tangy, spicy, and crunchy flavors, without the hassle of cooking (Malay Style Okra Salad)? Look no further than the North Indian-style Kachumber Salad - a refreshing, no-cook delight (Turkish Cucumber Salad) that will elevate your dining experience. This zesty salad pairs perfectly with rice, complements burgers, and is a mouthwatering topping for hot dogs in soft buns. The best part? It requires minimal effort, making it an excellent choice for entertaining guests (Indonesian Water Spinach Salad) or enjoying a quick, healthy treat. Prepare this salad in advance, refrigerate it, and serve it chilled - a perfect appetizer for any occasion.

Bunga Kantan/Torch Ginger: Urban Farming's Culinary Gem

Discover the captivating allure of Bunga Kantan, also known as Torch Ginger or Torch Lily - adelightful flower that can transform your urban or home garden (Ylang Ylang) into a culinary wonderland. This exotic plant not only adds a touch of elegance to your space but also infuses local Malaysian, Indonesian, and Thai dishes with its mesmerizing fragrance. Join me as I share my journey of growing and using Bunga Kantan to elevate my culinary adventures.

Growing Journey and Lessons Learned

A decade ago, my first attempt to grow Bunga Kantan ended in disappointment due to improper soil preparation, causing the roots to rot. Not one to be discouraged, I gave it another shot four years back, this time in a spacious pot. However, the plant seemed constrained, longing for more space to thrive. Deciding to transfer it to the open ground outside my zen space proved to be the turning point, as it began to flourish, rewarding me with its exquisite flowers.

Turmeric Black Cumin Rice - A Health is Wealth Dish

There's a common misconception that rice should be avoided if you're trying to lose weight. However, that couldn't be further from the truth! With the right approach, you can still enjoy a small portion of rice and maintain a balanced diet (Curry Leaf Coconut Oil Rice). Today, I bring you a delicious and wholesome rice dish that combines the goodness of turmeric and black cumin. This recipe not only satisfies your taste buds (Malay Style Turmeric Rice) but also contributes to your overall well-being (Blue Pea Rice). Let's dive into the delightful world of Turmeric Black Cumin Rice!

Delicious Homemade Pakistani Biryani: A Vegetarian Twist

Making biryani at home (Burmese Biryani) is not something that happens every day. It involves a bit of time and effort to gather all the ingredients, but thankfully, the cooking process is simplified with the use of a rice cooker (Vegetable Biryani). Occasionally, however, biryani becomes a special treat, especially when I have guests coming over. Entertaining is a rare occasion for me, considering the amount of work involved - from cooking to serving, and not to forget the cleaning up afterward. But this time, I was in the mood for something extraordinary (Hyderabadi Vegetable Biryani).

Rendang Minangkabau/Chicken Rendang

When it comes to rendang, the world of flavors opens up with various types to explore (Chicken Rendang). While the common rendang is widely known, let's embark on a flavorful adventure with Rendang Minangkabau, a true gem originating from Indonesia. During recent trip to Indonesia, I had the pleasure of savoring this exquisite dish that is often found alongside other delectable offerings in the Nasi Padang spread. While the cooking technique may resemble the traditional rendang, the ingredients used in Rendang Minangkabau (Mutton Rendang) possess their own unique twist. In the attached video, I shared my firsthand experience and knowledge of Rendang Minangkabau, but now let's delve into the tantalizing recipe. Gather these ingredients to recreate the magic in your own kitchen.

Effortless Spinach and Lentil Delights: Nourishing Recipes Made Easy

Spinach, a leafy green vegetable packed with essential nutrients, has become a favorite for many due to its affordability and ease of cultivation in urban settings. Not only are spinach leaves a healthy addition to your diet, but their seeds also offer an opportunity for urban farming enthusiasts to grow their own fresh produce. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of spinach, its effortless cultivation, and a simple yet delicious recipe that is budget-friendly.

Thai Green Egg Curry: A Spicy Green Goddess

When it comes to cooking Thai dishes, I consider myself quite the enthusiast. I embarked on a remarkable journey across the vibrant landscapes of Thailand, immersing myself in the richness  of their cuisine. From bustling markets to humble home kitchens, I eagerly absorbed the essence of Thai food, through firsthand experiences and encounters with generous individuals who graciously shared their treasured recipes. Today, I'm thrilled to add another gem to my collection of Thai culinary delights - the exquisite Thai Green Egg Curry.

Signature Tiffins Cafe: Exploring a New Eatery in Bandar Rimbayu (Teluk Panglima Garang)

Two weeks ago, a fellow food enthusiast and I embarked on a delightful culinary adventure in Bandar Rimbayu, uncovering yet another food paradise. As a resident of Kota Kemuning, I was thrilled to find an expanding dining scene right in our own backyard. On a leisurely Sunday afternoon, we made our way to Signature Tiffins Cafe (Blossom Square, 7-G, Jalan Flora 1/4, Bandar Rimbayu, Teluk Panglima Garang, Selangor), a 20-minute drive away, and were pleased to discover that parking was a breeze. Bandar Rimbayu has truly evolved into a haven for food lovers (Nutz & Boltz, & He Ju Kopitiam) offering us an abundance of new and exciting eateries to explore, including those in Kota Kemuning.

Exquisite Delights: The Aromatic Fusion of Curry Leaf Coconut Oil Rice

If you've been following my Zen Cuisines, it's no secret that I have a deep love for rice. Today, I want to share with you a rice dish that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also fits perfectly into a weight loss journey. Yes, you heard that right - you can still enjoy rice while shedding those extra pounds. Now, let's talk about dinner. I personally tend to avoid rice in the evening because it takes longer to digest, and we tend to be less active after our last meal of the day. Those unburned calories can easily lead to unwanted weight gain. However, I have a solution for you: a moderate portion of rice, primarily for lunch, a healthy and aromatic rice dish that will leave you satisfied without worrying about the calories.

Nava's Masala Crab: A Spicy Delight for Seafood Lovers

Having crab at home is truly a feast for us. It's not something we indulge in regularly, but every few months, the craving for a delectable crab dish arises. In our Indian family, we particularly relish crab prepared in a thick masala or curry gravy - a tantalizing blend of spices that ignites our taste buds. When it comes to cooking crab, I reserve the legs or claws for a flavorful Indian crab soup, while the bodies take center stage in a fiery and aromatic dish. Pairing these two preparations together with a simple stir fry completes our seafood extravaganza.