Chinese Prawn Recipes: 4 Varieties

(Updated Version)

Prawn dishes are not a regular feature in my house; they’re more like a once-a-month treat. However, having cooked for so many years, I’ve prepared a variety of prawn dishes, including Chinese prawn varieties. What I like about Chinese dishes is that they are quick to cook, provided the ingredients are prepared and ready near the wok (PRAWN SAMBAL NYONYA STYLE). 

Red Rubies in Coconut Milk: Dessert Recipe

(Updated Version)
From my journeys across Thailand (CHIANG MAI ENRICHING TOUR), I’ve experienced the rich diversity of Thai cuisine, savoring everything from fiery tom yam to tangy salads (TOM YAM TEMPTATION). But one dish that always leaves me craving for more is the delightful Thai dessert, Tam Tim Krob - better known as "Red Rubies." While you can easily find this gem in Thai restaurants in Malaysia, there’s nothing quite like making it yourself, though my first two attempts were anything but disaster. 

Imagine my excitement in Thailand when I tried to recreate the dessert after a local shared some insider tips (BANGKOK SOLO ADVENTURE). I confidently headed back home, but alas, my red rubies crumbled. Not one to give up, I turned to online resources and tried again - only to face yet another failure. It was on my third attempt that I finally cracked the code.

Obesity in Indian Women in Malaysia: Yoga as Holistic Wellness

Author

Ms. Krishnan N, a Zen entrepreneur 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
This article explores the complex relationship between social media, weight perception, and weight management among Indian women. It examines how social media celebrates body diversity and sometimes downplays the health risks of obesity. The article focuses on the significant role of yoga in promoting mindful weight management and addressing challenges such as self-esteem issues, eating habits, and societal pressures faced by overweight women.

The article underscores yoga’s holistic benefits for weight loss, mental clarity, and overall well-being, advocating for a balanced approach to health that integrates physical exercise with mindful eating practices. The findings suggest that while social media plays a significant role in shaping body image and weight management behaviors, a nuanced understanding of its impact and a comprehensive approach to wellness are crucial for achieving sustainable health outcomes.

Hong Kong-Style Wonton Noodle Soup: Prawn, Chicken & Pork Wanton

(Updated Version)

Why not make Hong Kong Wonton Noodle Soup in your Malaysian kitchen? Who says you can't? Not me - I’ve already shown you can! Here’s a little confession: I’ve never actually been to Hong Kong (SINGAPORE LAKSA MS. NAVA'S VERSION). But isn’t it refreshing to hear someone like Ms. Nava keeping it real in a world full of fakes, especially on social media?

I’ve certainly enjoyed my fair share of Hong Kong-style dishes right here in Malaysia. From devouring Hong Kong Wonton Noodle Soups multiple times to savoring both Prawn and Pork Chee Cheong Fun from local coffee shop stalls, it’s clear that you don’t need to travel to Hong Kong to enjoy authentic flavors (SARAWAK LAKSA CREATIVE FLAIR).

Sri Lankan Carrot Salad: Healthy No-Cook Recipes

(Updated Version)

Sri Lankan cuisine is a symphony of flavors, where spices and fresh coconut - either as creamy coconut milk or raw - play the lead role. During my seven-day trip in Sri Lanka, I was blown away by the vibrant dishes (COLOMBO DISCOVERY & KANDY SRI LANKA). Not a single meal disappointed, and I even picked up a few new recipes along the way, despite being no stranger to Sri Lankan cooking.

These recipes are not just about taste (SRI LANKAN FISH COCONUT MILK CURRY) - they embody healthy, nutritious eating and align perfectly with the much-loved Zen holistic wellness approach, emphasizing mindful eating and balance.

Wajik Pulut: Glutinous Rice Cake Recipe

(Updated Version)

Wajik Pulut, the dark glossy brown sticky Malaysian rice cakes, as I translate it. Made with white glutinous rice, coconut milk, palm sugar, and pandan leaves for a fragrant scent – these ingredients are staples in many Malaysian desserts (PULUT INTI RECIPE). Traditionally, Wajik Pulut involves steaming glutinous rice, then stirring it into a mixture of coconut milk, palm sugar, and scented with pandan leaves. Watching my mother prepare it taught me the patience required for this delicate process. However, I’ve simplified the recipe, reducing the amount of coconut milk and palm sugar to create a version that is still rich in flavor but not overly indulgent. It turned out well (SAGU GULA MELAKA RECIPE). How about giving it a try?

Penang Food Finds: Classic Eateries and Hidden Gems

Hey foodies! It's time for another food adventure (BUTTERWORTH FOOD ADVENTURE), and this time we've landed on Penang Island. This place is a true food paradise (MALACCA TRIALS) with so many options to choose from. Even though I've been to Penang Island 8 times already, there's always a new eatery waiting to be discovered. Here are the spots I've tried so far (KOTA KINABALU FOOD SPOTTING), and I'm excited to share them with all of you.

Paal Sangam Café (Jalan Dato Keramat, George Town)

Paal Sangam Café did not disappoint! Their vegetarian banana leaf lunch was fantastic. The Tofu Sambal, Stir Fried Beansprout, Potato Podimas, Chutney, and Curries all tasted truly authentic. It's definitely some of the best vegetarian food around. I loved it, although the Kesari (Indian Semolina Cake) was a bit dry. The service was a bit slow due to peak lunch hour, but it was worth the wait.

Asam Pedas Ikan Bawal: Malay Fish Dish

(Updated Version)

Did you know that the herbs in Asam Pedas, like the sourness of asam (tamarind juice or dried tamarind pieces), are more than just flavor enhancers? They’re packed with health benefits, adding more than just taste to our plates - they add value to our well-being.

 

Now, if you're under the impression that making Asam Pedas is complicated, think again. It’s actually quite simple, and don't let anyone convince you otherwise. It all starts with gathering the herbs and pantry-friendly ingredients to make the Asam Pedas rempah. You can make it from scratch or opt for store-bought versions. But here’s how you can whip up the rempah at home.

Zen Mango Pickles: Three Unique Recipes to Savor

(Updated Version)

Aam ka Achaar, or mango pickle, isn't just a beloved staple in India and Pakistan; it's a sensation across South Asia. Even Western pals have caught on and are nailing it with their own versions of mango pickle. Oh, before I digress further, let me tell you - mango pickles in India (CHANDIGARH UBRAN MARVEL) are so incredibly salty! I can’t fathom why. They even pack them like butter, in those small plastic compartments, and they’re so salty I couldn’t even manage a tiny dip (NEW DELHI REVELATION). 

Tanni Saar (Sweet Leaf In Dhal Gravy)

(Updated Version)

Tanni Saar - now that’s a name that might raise an eyebrow or two! Directly translated, tanni means water and saar means juice. Oh dear! I’m not going to dwell on that translation, but let me tell you what Tanni Saar actually is. It's a delightful concoction of dal and sweet leaves, specifically known as tausi murungai keerai in Tamil. Think of it as a hybrid between dal curry, stew, and soup, with light coconut milk and your everyday kitchen staples rounding it out.