Vegetarian Bayam Masak Lemak (Spinach Coconut Stew)

Isn’t it fantastic when you have people like Ms. Nava who can convert even Malay dishes to a vegetarian version (VEGETARIAN ASAM PEDAS)? I can’t tell you exactly how many among the Malays are vegetarians, though within the Malay community, dried shrimp, dried anchovies, and eggs might be considered vegetarian and added into their cooking, such as in masak lemak. That said, they do enjoy a lot of raw salads with sambal belacan, which I love too. 

Among the Chinese, more people are becoming vegetarians, and among Indians, it's quite common. For religious occasions or specific days, many Indians choose to be vegetarian as a way to honor their gods. It’s like a trend - one person becomes vegetarian and influences another. There's also a belief that being vegetarian makes you more religious and that you'll go to heaven, unlike Ms. Nava, who humorously says she might head to hell. But? You can decide what to say after the "but" because I’m done talking.

Chinese Herbal Pork Soup

Are you thinking, "An Indian lady cooking Chinese Herbal Pork Soup?" Yes, she does! I'm one of those Indians who loves pork, even though my husband doesn't. He doesn't mind me cooking it for myself. What's better than a Chinese soup packed with nourishment and goodness? Chinese Herbal Pork Soup sounds fabulous, don't you agree? Plus, it's super easy to cook. I usually use pre-packed herbs from the store, and wow, there are so many choices these days. Just pick your favorite, and let's cook up some soup! I also have a recipe for Chinese Pork Old Cucumber Soup, but let's start with this one - Chinese Herbal Pork Soup.

Vegetarian Asam Pedas (Asam Pedas Sayur)

Let's clear the air before we get cooking. People love to judge at first sight - some see me as a lady of leisure, a glamour queen, and the ultimate non-cook. After I got married, every time I walked into my in-laws' gatherings and mentioned cooking, I'd get sly smiles and those nasty, scrutinizing looks as if they were checking up on my culinary skills. Oh, the expressions on their faces - priceless! Apparently, my appearance didn't fit their cooking connoisseur checklist. How should a lady who cooks look? If only I resembled them, right? Weeeeeee!!

Tamarind Fried Fish: Classic vs. Alternative Dip Recipes

Have you tried Tamarind Fried Fish? It’s a fascinating dish where fish is soaked in tangy tamarind juice before being fried to perfection. If you love zesty flavors, this dish is a must-try. I’m a big fan of such vibrant tastes, and Tamarind Fried Fish, with its lively kick, hits the spot. Even if you’re not usually into zesty foods, pairing this fried fish with a spicy soy dip might just open your taste buds to new flavors.

 

You can use any type of fish for this recipe. I’m featuring two varieties: torpedo scad (cencaru) and mackerel (kembung). Each type of fish comes with its own unique dip, making both versions of this Tamarind Fried Fish equally delightful and easy to prepare.

Egg Curry Trio: Spiced, Tangy & Veggie Delights

Something that I repeat regularly is that I love eggs. They sort of complete my meals. Enough said, I suppose, because I have nothing more to say about eggs, and today, eggs will be featured in curries. I will share with you two types of egg curries, both with potatoes, and also give you another option for how you can elevate your egg curry with vegetables.

That is not all. Let's do it up to a complete egg set meal, including a rice dish and a veggie dish that you can consider pairing with your egg curry. Or just go with the flow of however you want to pair an egg curry. These recipes are nothing complicated - basic recipes with pantry-friendly ingredients.

Surakarta (Solo): Heartbeat of Central Java

The final day of my 5-day, 4-night escapade has arrived (BOROBUDUR ETERNAL LEGEND & YOGYAKARTA REGAL WONDERS). Tomorrow morning, I’ll  be heading back to reality, back to the daily grind. As much as I'd love to keep traveling forever, the truth is, it's time to return home. But not before I embark on my last adventure in Surakarta, also known as Solo.

My day began with a delightful hotel buffet breakfast at Harper Mangkubumi. The spread was a feast for the senses, especially the array of local traditional dishes that tantalized my  taste buds. Satisfied and ready for the day, we set off  (COLOMBO DREAMS & SEOUL THROUGH MY EYES) for Surakarta.

Yogyakarta: Regal Wonders and Indonesian Tastes

It's time to talk about the buffet breakfast at Harper Mangkubumi, and trust me, you're in for a treat! I haven't yet introduced you to this culinary delight, and now is the perfect moment (JOGYAKARTA EXPOSURE). By now, you probably know how much I adore Indonesian cuisine and our local Malay Malaysian food. Oh, yes, please! The buffet breakfast at Harper Mangkubumi was a feast for the senses during my stay (COLOMBO DISCOVERY & NEW DELHI REVELATION). 

The variety was astounding, even featuring different Jamu concoctions, those traditional herbal drinks. Although I’m not a big eater and not usually a breakfast person, I couldn't resist sampling the array of dishes. Such a sensational meal, including the desserts that left me in awe. I know I'll miss this breakfast spread (HOKKAIDO WANDERLUST) once I leave, and I'm sure you'll agree with me after seeing it for yourself.

Jogyakarta: Authentic Indonesian Cuisine & Cultural Exposure

After an action-packed morning filled with thrilling adventures (MOUNT MERAPI JEEP TOUR), lunch was a much-anticipated respite. With a sparse breakfast and energy spent, I eagerly looked forward to a hearty meal. Finally (SEOUL THROUGH MY EYES & CHENNAI DISCOVERY) we arrived at Restaurant Timbul Roso, albeit a bit later than planned. The stunning rustic ambiance, highlighted by rich wood tones, made me feel as if I had walked into a luxurious home in Jogjakarta. I longed to sit outside amidst the mini nature jungle, but our group of four opted for the comfort (OSAKA SUNSETS) of the indoor dining area.

Mount Merapi Jeep Tour: Rugged Adventure

Adventure was calling, and I was ready to answer. The Mount Merapi Jeep Tour promised an experience (JOGYAKARTA TEMPLES) like no other, and while my previous travels had already seen their fair share of thrilling escapades (HOKKAIDO SNOW MOBILE & VARANASI GANGES), I was eager to see what this adventure had in store. As we arrived at the starting point, the sun blazed overhead, and the air was thick with dust. Grateful for my trusty scarf- a staple of my travel gear - I wrapped it around my face and prepared for the ride (CAPE TOWN SEAL ISLAND & PRETORIA MOMENTS). 

Mount Merapi, Indonesia's "Mountain of Fire," loomed majestically before us. This active volcano, near Yogyakarta on the island of Java, is infamous for its frequent and powerful eruptions that have shaped the surrounding landscape and the lives of local communities for centuries. Its fiery temperament has caused extensive damage and loss of life, yet it remains an integral part of the region's culture and spirituality. Those brave enough to hike its slopes are rewarded with breathtaking views and a profound appreciation for the raw power of nature.