Portuguese Vegetable Pickle/Achar

In 2020, I whipped up this Portuguese vegetable pickle, or achar, as some may call it. This isn't my first rodeo with it - I've made it a couple of times before. You might be wondering why I'm only sharing it now. Well, the idea struck me as I was browsing through our YouTube channel. I thought, "Why not feature it as part of our Zen Cuisine?" Plus, not everyone prefers video recipes; some prefer the written words. 

Named as vegetable pickle, I've experimented with various veggies like carrots, cabbage, long beans, fresh beans, and even ginger. But after a couple of tries, I've settled on just green chilies, shallots, and garlic because these are what we tend to prefer, not the vegetables. That's what you'll find in the final product.

Things to Do in Verona, Italy

For those who have visited Verona, it likely feels like a city of love and romance. It’s simply the vibes. During autumn, the weather is cool, although the morning breeze can be overwhelming,  further adding to the sense of love in the air. The stone buildings, still preserved from yesteryear, enhance that feeling (WHAT TO SEE IN VENICE ITALY).

Verona is a city in northern Italy, located in the Veneto region between the larger cities of Milan and Venice. Travelling from Venice to Verona takes around two hours by coach. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Verona has existed for over 2,000 years. No wonder it stands as one of the top tourist spots in the world and a must-visit destination in Italy.

Easy Bread Pudding Recipe: Vegetarian

Bread isn’t just a staple in my kitchen; it’s a cherished ingredient! Whether it’s the star of our light dinners or a perfect companion to savory curries, bread brings simple joy to our meals. But what about those leftover slices? Instead of tossing them out, why not transform them into something delicious?

Enter the delightful vegetarian bread pudding! With minimal effort and simple ingredients like canned peaches and raisins, you can create a mouthwatering dessert that’s both satisfying and guilt-free. Raisins add natural sweetness along with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making this a healthy treat. Plus, you control the sweetness - use the syrup from the can or skip it for a lighter version.

Things to Do & See in Venice, Italy

Mention Venice, and most visitors will picture a water world - boats, gondolas, or vaporetto boats gliding through narrow canals. This historic city in northeastern Italy is built on more than 100 small islands. There are no roads, only canals, with the Grand Canal as the city’s main waterway. If you’re heading from Pisa to Venice, the journey takes approximately 4 hours (5 TOP THINGS TO DO IN PISA).

Sadly, due to climate change, Venice is slowly but surely sinking, and in the years ahead, the outcome may not be favourable. For now, it remains a spectacular must-see city in Italy. Be prepared to be surrounded by thousands of visitors, it’s usually packed. Weekends can be even busier, with Italians from other parts of the country joining in for sightseeing. That’s exactly why Venice is one of the top sights in the world. Your time in Venice is truly priceless, a travel experience of a lifetime (SURAKARTA INDONESIA TRAVEL GUIDE).

Top 5 Things to Do in Pisa, Italy

Spending a day in Pisa, Italy, offers just enough time to see its main attractions. Located about 1.5 hours from Florence by coach (WHAT TO DO IN FLORENCE), Pisa is ideal for a day trip unless you're planning to stay overnight or enjoy a local dinner. Starting in the morning, you can easily cover the top five sights by evening. All of them are located within the spacious Piazza dei Miracoli, officially known as Piazza del Duomo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site also referred to as the “Square of Miracles” for its stunning architecture.

How Does It Begin

The coach drops you off just outside Pisa’s main area. From there, you hop onto an open-air shuttle with other visitors for a short ride closer to the entrance. As you get down, non-Italian street vendors crowd around, selling everything from fake sunglasses and keychains to souvenirs you didn’t ask for. Walk ahead and you’ll find rows of permanent stalls on both sides - bags, hats, T-shirts, fridge magnets, Pisa towers in every size. Keep moving, and soon you’ll pass through an old stone gateway, and your moment of sightseeing in Pisa begins (VARANASI INDIA TOP SIGHTS).

Fried Kembung (Mackerel) With Assam Sauce

Ikan kembung, sometimes spelled kembong and known as Indian mackerel, is a small, affordable local fish common in Malaysia. These fish sometimes come in slightly bigger sizes and are popular across Southeast Asia.

 

In Malaysia, this same fish is boiled in saltwater and sold as Ikan Kembung Rebus, or literally “Boiled Kembung.” This variety is aptly for an easy, no-fuss, traditional Malaysian fish recipe. 

Simple and packed with authentic flavors, it’s a staple in Malaysian street food, especially at nasi campur stalls and casual eateries.

What To Do in Florence, Italy

Florence, the city of art and design, is located in central Italy in the Tuscany region. It lies along the Arno River, surrounded by hills and vineyards, and is known for its romantic dining, complete with Italian cuisine and local wine. From Rome, it takes about 4 to 4½ hours by car or bus (TOP THINGS TO DO IN ROME).

One of the best things about Florence is that vehicle traffic is limited in the city center. Thanks to traffic control zones, it’s convenient for tourists to walk from one attraction to another. Be prepared to walk a lot, and if you visit during autumn, expect chilly mornings and cold evenings. A day is usually enough to cover the main attractions in Florence, unless you plan to explore more tourist spots or discover hidden gems.

Top Things to Do in Rome, Italy

Italy is a land of love, where ancient history lives on and food lovers can enjoy real Italian cuisine. Despite modernization, many of Italy’s historical sites remain untouched. It’s a country that attracts thousands of tourists year-round (HOKKAIDO JAPAN BEST THINGS TO DO).

While Italy can be an expensive destination, especially for Asian travellers, that hasn’t stopped them from visiting. There are many cities in Italy, but Rome is a must. You can easily spend days in Rome going from one sightseeing spot to another, but if you're touring other parts of Italy, two or three packed days in Rome are enough to cover the top sights (CHANDIGARH INDIA TOP PLACES TO VISIT).

KKSV Restaurant: Malaysian Coffeeshop Eating Culture

Formerly recognized as Restoran Poh Yap, this establishment underwent refurbishment a few months ago and now goes by the name KKSV Restaurant. The makeover includes an expanded, air-conditioned dining area. While some familiar stalls, like the Pork Noodles, remain, new additions have also been introduced, creating an exciting blend of the traditional and the novel (Exploring A Kopitiam).

Bay Leaves: Health Benefits and Cooking Uses

(Updated Version)

In Malaysia, bay leaves are somewhat unfamiliar, with many people unsure of their appearance or uses. Some wonder if these are the same leaves used in biryani rice - referring to the dried ones commonly found in stores. It might seem surprising, but bay leaves offer a wealth of health benefits, making them a valuable addition to any pantry (GROWING SPRING ONIONS IN URBAN GARDENS).

Health Benefits of Bay Leaves

Here are some key health benefits of bay leaves: 

Heart Health

Bay leaves help lower bad cholesterol levels and strengthen blood vessels, reducing heart disease risk.

Easy and Quick Vegetarian Salads Recipes

How do salads come to life in my kitchen? It all starts with a quick scan of my fridge and pantry - spotting veggies and fruits that might not last much longer. Waste is something I’m mindful of, so I prioritize ingredients that need to be used up soon. For me, this approach is part of mindful living (INDIAN VEGETARIAN SALADS).

The vegetarian salad recipes I’m sharing are incredibly easy and adaptable. They incorporate what are traditionally considered Western ingredients, which have become staples in Asian kitchens, including here in Malaysia (TURMERIC EGGS).

Easy Tofu Recipes: Vegetarian and Vegan

Tofu has long been a favorite in my household - loved for its versatility, affordability, and ability to satisfy vegetarians, vegans, and even meat lovers. Widely used in Japan and Korea ((KOREA THROUGH MY EYES, HOKKAIDO WANDERLUST & OSAKA SUNSETS). tofu has become a global favorite, with endless possibilities for simple yet satisfying dishes.

Today, tofu is easily available, from traditional markets to high-end stores, offering many varieties. While I appreciate all types, my go-to is the soft, organic Japanese tofu, free of preservatives. Its mild flavor may seem simple, but it’s perfect for absorbing the bold, spicy, tangy, and sweet flavors of Malaysian and Asian cooking.

What makes these recipes even more special is that many of the ingredients come from my own garden at Nava’s Zen - chilies, basil, and spring onions that I carefully grow. 

(Vibrant Sabah chillies in purple, red, and green, grown fresh in Nava's Zen garden)

These tofu recipes are healthy, vegetarian, vegan and ideal for anyone looking for quick, flavorful plant-based meals.

Thai-Style Vegetarian Tofu

Steam or microwave tofu for 1-2 minutes until heated through.

Transfer the tofu to a plate and top with chopped or sliced cucumber, tomato, and chilies.

Drizzle with lime juice and sprinkle with Thai basil leaves and salt to taste.

Steamed Tofu with Soy Sauce
Steam or microwave tofu until warmed.

Garnish with crushed peanuts, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, chilies, salt, and fresh cilantro.

Steamd Tofu with Oyster Sauce
Steam white tofu and place on a plate.

Tip atop vegetarian oyster sauce, some crispy fried shallots and sliced spring onions. 

 

Chong Kok Kopitiam: Delightful Heritage Flavors

When my breakfast crew suggested heading to Klang's Chong Kok Kopitiam for another morning feast, I, being the enthusiastic foodie, readily agreed. I heard tales of this Kopitiam being a stroll down heritage lane from years back, adding to the allure. As we negotiated the usual challenge of finding parking in Klang, we eventually secured a spot in one of the backlanes.As we crossed the road in front of Chong Kok Kopitiam, a sudden realization hit me - I've been here before. While I couldn't recall the name initially, revisiting the same eatery posed no issue.

Turmeric Boiled Eggs Recipe

Brace yourself! These aren’t your fancy, superstar turmeric boiled eggs. These are traditional-style turmeric boiled eggs, made with fresh turmeric. Simple to prepare, and if you grow fresh turmeric like we do at Nava's Zen, you’re all set. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t always have eggs at home? Let’s dive into the recipe.

Roselle: Exploring Health Benefits and Uses

(Updated Version)

Roselle, a variety of the hibiscus family (Hibiscus sabdariffa), is known by many names worldwide, including Sorelle, Gongura, Karkadeh, and Bissap. Its glossy, bright red bloom is truly eye-catching, but there’s more to Roselle than its looks. This plant is packed with incredible health benefits that make it a popular choice in both traditional and modern wellness practices. Let’s dive into some of Roselle’s top health benefits and versatile uses (THE BEGINNERS ULTIMATE GUIDE TO GROWING HERBS). 

Health Benefits of Roselle

Rich in Antioxidants

High in vitamin C and anthocyanins, promoting skin health and reducing oxidative stress.

 

Supports Heart Health

Helps lower blood pressure and cholesterol for a healthy cardiovascular system.

 

Aids in Digestion

Gentle laxative effects support healthy digestion and gut balance.

 

Weight Management

Regulates metabolism and reduces body fat, aiding in weight management.

 

Immune System Booster

High in vitamin C, enhancing immune resilience.

 

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Alleviates symptoms of arthritis and inflammatory conditions.

Growing and Cultivating Roselle

Growing Roselle at home is relatively simple and rewarding. Here are a couple of methods to start your Roselle garden (HOW TO GROW AND CARE FOR TORCH GINGER). 

Starting from a Stem
All you need is a single stem to begin. Roselle plants multiply as their fruits form, and if left alone, the seeds within the fruits will naturally drop, sprouting new plants. Buy a small plant, and you’ll soon have a thriving roselle garden with minimal effort.

 

Propagating from Cuttings
Alternatively, pluck off the leaves and allow the stems to sit in water until roots appear. Once rooted, you can plant the stems directly in soil. With regular watering and a bit of organic fertilizer, you’ll see flowers and fruits flourishing in no time.

Uses of Roselle

Beyond health benefits, Roselle is highly valued for its versatility. Here are some popular uses of this vibrant plant:

 

Nutritional Supplement
Rich in essential vitamins and antioxidants, Roselle is consumed globally as a supplement for immunity, digestion, and heart health. It’s a natural way to incorporate beneficial nutrients into your diet.

 

Traditional Medicine
For centuries, Roselle has been a staple in traditional medicine, used to treat ailments like coughs, fever, and digestive issues due to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

 

Natural Dye
The deep red calyces of Roselle are used as a natural dye for textiles and food. This vibrant color provides an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic dyes.

 

Culinary Uses of Roselle
Roselle is widely used in cooking, adding a unique tangy flavor and vibrant color to various dishes. Here are some simple ways to incorporate Roselle into your culinary repertoire:

 

Roselle Juice
To make refreshing Roselle juice, peel the calyces, remove the seeds, and wash them thoroughly. Blend with water to your desired consistency and add honey for sweetness and/or lemon juice for tanginess. You can choose to strain the juice or leave it unstrained, as the fruit contains fiber and is packed with health benefits, making it a delicious and nutritious drink.

Roselle Jam

To make Roselle jam, clean the calyces and cook them in a pot with sugar and water until they reach a thick, jam-like consistency. This jam can also be diluted with water to make a fruity Roselle drink.

Chutney from Roselle Leaves

Known as sour leaves, Roselle leaves can be used to make a tangy chutney. Boil the leaves to reduce their sourness, mash them, and temper with curry leaves, shallots, and dried chilies for a flavorful side dish. Add salt to taste, and enjoy this unique twist on traditional chutney.

Roselle in Lamb Curry

Add Roselle calyces to lamb, mutton, chicken, or fish curry for a natural burst of sourness, which eliminates the need for tamarind or tomatoes. The calyces also give the dish a rich, red hue that adds visual appeal and depth of flavor.

From its impressive health benefits to its vibrant uses in the kitchen and traditional medicine, Roselle is a plant worth exploring. It’s easy to grow, visually appealing, and loaded with potential for improving overall health and wellness. Whether you’re sipping on Roselle tea, making chutney from the leaves, or adding a pop of color with Roselle juice, this versatile plant has a place in every garden and kitchen.

 

Wouldn’t you agree that growing Roselle is a worthy endeavor? With all its benefits, uses, and easy cultivation methods, Roselle truly deserves a spot in your garden and a staple role in your Zen routine.

(Ms. Nava is a dynamic individual in her 60s, leading yoga sessions at Nava's Zen while also embracing her passion for gardening through Zen Blooming. With credentials in gardening and extensive experience, she cultivates a serene environment that reflects her commitment to Zen, inspiring others to find balance and tranquility in their lives).

Moringa/Drumstick Leaves Stir-Fry Recipe

(Updated Version)

Packed with nutrients, the moringa tree - along with its flowers and drumsticks—is a true blessing for humankind. In the 21st century, where the race for success and wealth often takes a toll on our health, moringa leaves offer a powerful Zen solution. Although cleaning the leaves by pulling them from the stems can be time-consuming, the effort is absolutely worth it, as moringa leaves are celebrated as a Zen superfood. I’ve made this moringa and drumstick leaves stir-fry countless times, both in vegetarian and non-vegetarian versions. The only difference lies in one ingredient: you can choose to add dried shrimps or dried anchovies, or simply leave them out.