Exploring the Versatility of Brazilian Spinach

A couple of years ago, Brazilian spinach was relatively unknown in Malaysia. Over time, it has slowly made its presence felt. Gardeners have started exploring it as part of the growing trend in home and urban gardening. Scientifically known as Alternanthera sissoo, it is commonly referred to by simpler names such as Sissoo spinach, Sambu, Samba lettuce, Sabu spinach, and Poor man’s spinach. 

The name “Brazilian spinach” reflects its country of origin, Brazil. With its glossy, attractive leaves, it is a must-grow vegetable at home.

He Ju Kopitiam: A Culinary Adventure Through a Food Critic's Lens

We decided to check out a kopitiam, which has become quite popular lately. It seems that just using the word "kopitiam" in a restaurant's name attracts customers for different reasons. Kopitiams can be simple coffee shops serving Malaysian food or fancier places with nice decorations and air conditioning. The fancier ones may be a bit pricier, but they attract people with their tasty food and cozy atmosphere. The one we went to was somewhere in the middle, offering a variety of delicious dishes from both Malaysia and other countries on their menu.

Vegetarian Okra Recipe: Kerabu Bendi (Lady Finger Salad)

Okra is better known as lady fingers in some parts of the world, whereas in Malaysia, it is called bendi. This long green vegetable can be slimy when cut, but it is packed with numerous health benefits. Affordable and versatile, bendi is often added to curries or stir-fries (BEANS STIR-FRY CHINESE STYLE).

 

One of the simplest ways to eat it is steamed or boiled, paired with a spicy Malaysian dip, or sambal. For a more elevated version, the steamed or boiled okra can be sliced and turned into a Malaysian salad. One popular type is a raw salad (CUCUMBER YOGURT SALAD NO-CO0K) known as Kerabu, a no-fuss recipe using kitchen-friendly ingredients.

Restoran Top 1 Kopitiam: Malaysia's Vibrant Street Food Scene

As an avid food lover, I may not claim to be the world's top foodie, but I've had my fair share of dining experiences both within and outside my country. While traveling abroad, I've had the pleasure of indulging in various cuisines. I must confess, I'm not a picky eater and can enjoy a meal anywhere without following strict food rules. 

Unlike some self-proclaimed foodies, I embrace all sorts of culinary delights, except for beef due to my religious beliefs rooted in Hinduism. Although I cook regularly at home, I often take a break to explore the realm of dining out. Lately, I've found myself drawn to the fascinating world of street food, which offers a delightful array of flavors right here in Malaysia.

Gardening Tips for Beginners

(Updated Version)

Not sure how to start or where to begin your gardening journey? Don’t worry! With over 20 years of experience, I’m here to guide you step by step. Gardening doesn’t have to be overwhelming - it’s all about keeping it simple and fun. In this article, we’ll focus on gardening on the ground, leaving aside container gardening for the time being. Let’s dig in.

 

Where to Plant
Start by identifying a plot of land within your compound. Even a small area, like the patch of land near your gate, can work wonders. Consider how much space you have and choose a location that gets enough sunlight. Accessibility for watering and maintenance is key - ensure it’s easy to reach and work with.

 

Cleaning Up
Before planting, clear the area thoroughly. Remove weeds, rocks, and debris from both the surface and below the soil. A clean foundation is essential for healthier plants and makes planting easier. Remember, the larger the plot, the more time it will take to prepare, so start small if you’re a beginner.

Soil Matters

Examine the soil type in your chosen area. In Malaysia, clay soil is common but tends to harden quickly, especially in hot weather. If the soil is too hard, water won’t penetrate deeply, which can hinder plant growth. Consider enhancing the soil by mixing in black soil or compost. Black soil not only improves moisture retention but also adds an attractive contrast when paired with lush green plants.

 

Essential Tools
Equip yourself with the basics:

A hand trowel for planting and digging.

Pruning shears for trimming plants.

Garden gloves for protection and comfort.

A watering can for precise watering.

Start with these essentials and expand your toolkit as needed. For example, a small shovel and soil moisture meter can be helpful once you’re more experienced.

Protection and Safety

Always wear gardening gloves - they protect your hands from dirt, thorns, and insects. Consider gardening boots if you’re working on uneven or rocky ground. If you’re out in the sun for long hours, a wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen are must-haves for your safety.

 

What to Plant
Choose plants suited to your climate and environment. As a beginner, focus on low-maintenance options. Those grow easily and are satisfying to nurture. Avoid  ambitious choices to start; small successes will build your confidence as you grow your green thumb.

 

Learning Along the Way
Gardening is an ongoing learning experience. Read books, explore online resources, or join free gardening workshops if available. Don’t hesitate to ask for advice at local nurseries - most staff are happy to share tips. Every plant you grow teaches you something new, making the journey all the more rewarding.

Dedication and Passion

Gardening requires time, effort, and a love for the process. Be prepared to get sweaty and dirty - it’s part of the experience. Dedication and passion will help you enjoy the challenges and rewards that come with nurturing your own green haven.

 

Happy gardening. In the next article, we will dwell into other matters on gardening.

(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). 

 

Salted Fish Curry with Pineapple Recipe

Salted Fish Curry comes in different styles. It is one of the most popular curries in Malaysia, among all communities. Salted fish itself is a beloved Malaysian ingredient, like ikan bilis (dried anchovies). It is one of the things Malaysia is famous for.

The basic salted fish curry (INDIAN FISH CURRY) becomes even more delicious when pineapple is added. Pineapple Salted Fish Curry, or Salted Fish Curry with Pineapple, stands out from the usual versions. Adding pineapple into curries is part of Malay food. Salted Fish Curry with Pineapple is also a known Nyonya (Peranakan) dish, called Kiam Hu Kut Gulai or Nyonya Salted Fish Bones Gulai, which can include pineapple as well.

Beans Stir-Fry: Chinese Style

All things delicious in food are stir-fries. Quick stir-fries are easy and simple recipes, and just a few common kitchen staples make cooking convenient.

Beans come in various types - French beans, long beans, snow beans, and frozen green peas,  all affordable and ideal for home-style cooking. For this recipe, it’s long beans, but other types work just as well. Greens make for a healthy dish, even if achieving authentic wok hei at home is difficult (QUICK CHINESE VEGETABLE STIR-FRY).

Malaysian Wildboar Curry/Kattu Pandi Kulambu

Wild boar, or Kattu Pandi in Tamil, may not be everyone’s choice of meat, but it certainly has a global fan base. Across cultures, wild boar is prepared in distinct, flavour-packed ways. In Italy, it’s slow-braised in red wine and tomatoes into a rich wild boar ragu, usually served with pasta. In Thailand, wild boar is stir-fried jungle-style with herbs, chillies, and green peppercorns. Meanwhile, in the Philippines, it’s grilled or stewed adobo-style with vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and bay leaves.

Tom Yum Fish Recipe

Tom Yum is a world-renowned Thai dish, whether spelled tom yum or tom yam, it’s a classic Thai soup that delights with its spicy, tangy, and aromatic flavors. Traditionally, it can be made by simmering fresh Thai ingredients in a broth or by using a prepared Tom Yum paste. This versatile paste is also used for other Thai dishes, such as Tom Yum Fried Rice or Tom Yum Fried Noodles.

Another essential ingredient in Thai cooking is Mae Pranom Thai Chili Paste, widely available in stores and online, in small or large bottles. It is made from dried chili, dried shrimp, garlic, onion, tamarind, sugar, salt, soybean oil, and shrimp paste, adding depth, heat, and authentic Thai flavor (TAMARIND FRIED FISH). If you don’t have it, you can still recreate the taste by using these ingredients in your spice mix.

Chandigarh, India - Things to Do

The City Beautiful reflects the top sites in Chandigarh. Gardens, parks, trees, and flowers bring the colors of nature in India to life. Beyond being a modern and model city, Chandigarh is clean and well-maintained, welcoming everyone with fresh air and sunshine (KERALA INDIA WHAT TO DO). 

Located in northern India at the foothills of the Shivalik Hills, Chandigarh holds the unique distinction of being the capital of two states, Punjab and Haryana. Designed by the world-renowned architect Le Corbusier, the city was envisioned as a symbol of a modern, progressive India. One of the first planned cities in post-independence India, Chandigarh balances functionality, aesthetics, and green spaces.

Kullu Manali India: Best Things to Do

It takes approximately 7 hours from Shimla to Kullu Manali by road. Though 7 hours may sound long to stay on the coach, the journey offers beautiful and stunning views, especially when going downhill, with Shimla slowly disappearing behind (SHIMLA INDIA WHAT TO DO).

The narrow road downhill is picturesque for admiring Shimla’s nature. In the morning, the sunrise looks like a big twinkle over Shimla’s mountains and valleys. As the drive continues, Shimla’s landscapes appear from one spot, disappear, and then appear again from the next.

Shimla, India - Things to Do

At an altitude of about 2,200 metres above sea level, Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh in northern India, is fondly known as The Queen of Hills. Also referred to as The Summer Capital of British India, it lies along the southwestern ranges of the Himalayas. This hill town in India is surrounded by valleys, mountains, greenery, and colourful flowers that brighten the hills through the seasons (HARYANA INDIA SACRED SITES). 

Still preserved from earlier times, the colonial-style buildings, narrow lanes, fresh air, and sunshine say it all about Shimla as one of the top hill stations in India. It remains a peaceful place, away from the rush of city life, where calmness and simplicity fill the days.

Haryana, India Sacred Sites

Incredible India often begins upon arrival at Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in Delhi, the primary gateway to other states and regions of India. Alternatively, travelers can arrive through other airports in the country to reach attractions in Kerala in the south, Rajasthan in the west, or the Himalayan regions in the north. Delhi is generally considered the main entry point and a gateway to North India (TAJ MAHAL, AGRA, INDIA). 

Haryana, India

Haryana is one of the top sites in North India, with its capital in Chandigarh. Haryana by itself has several cities and towns, such as Gurgaon (Gurugram), Faridabad, Panipat, and Kurukshetra. In this state of India, sightseeing spots range from Pinjore Gardens, Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary, Morni Hills, Pehowa, and Panipat.

Egg Curry with Moringa

Eggs are a staple in many kitchens. Versatile, affordable, and packed with nutrients. They provide high-quality protein with all essential amino acids, vitamins (B12, B2, A, D, and choline), and antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin for eye health. While moderation is recommended, eggs remain a go-to ingredient for quick and nutritious meals (CUMIN RICE: RICE-COOKER STYLE).

Moringa sticks, also known as drumsticks, were once considered humble “poor man’s food” but are now recognized as a superfood, rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Only the inner seeds and flesh are edible, while the tough outer skin is discarded.

Shivan Panching & Sri Marathandavar Temples

While exploring sightseeing spots in Kuantan (KUANTAN COASTAL WONDERS) I discovered the Shivan Temple in Gua Charas Panching, which led to an unexpectedly profound journey. We parked at the base of the hill, where the ascent up a steep, uneven stairway tested our resolve. My friends, initially skeptical and grumbling about the difficulty, were reluctantly drawn onward by our determination to reach the temple. The drive to the foothill was equally challenging, with its bumpy, rocky terrain (VARANASI SACRED GANGES, MADURAI SPIRITUAL INSIGHTS, KERALA TEMPLE & KATAGARAMA TEMPLE). 

Sultan Ahmad Shah Mosque: An Unexpected Divine Encounter

I ended up in Kuantan. It was a spur-of-the-moment decision, just a drive with no plans whatsoever, going with the flow. Actually, it was to break free from the mundane life and welcome something new. Landing in Kuantan, I checked into Vistana Kuantan (now known as AC Hotel Kuantan). The room was lovely, with nothing to fault. Next, I made a call to meet up with two friends who fetched me from the hotel, and we took a drive around Kuantan town before I chanced upon the Sultan Ahmad Shah Mosque (Masjid Negeri, Masjid Sultan Ahmad 1). 

Cucumber Yogurt Salad Recipe

Time is the number one thing in current living. It’s time that decides if it’s cooking at home and the types of dishes cooked. Quick meals are generally the go-to, something related to easy recipes and simple cooking. Depending on what the meal is, a vegetable dish (QUICK CHINESE VEGETABLE STIR-FRY) is a must for the fiber, wellness, and healthy living. Furthermore, apart from the quick stir-fry vegetables, there are also salads. What can be a better salad recipe than the raw and no-cook salad?

Enter cucumber yogurt salad. Refreshing, healthy, minimalist, and made with common ingredients. Grated, sliced, or chopped cucumber with garlic, then tossed with yogurt, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

How to Make Saffron Rice

Homemade saffron rice isn’t something cooked regularly. It’s usually reserved for special occasions and celebrations. However, easy saffron rice can also be a treat for home dining (VEGETABLE KURMA CURRY).  The central ingredient is, of course, saffron strands. For Malaysians, saffron is imported and can be rather pricey, with flavor and price varying depending on the country of origin.

Over time, more choices have become available from Bangladesh, Iran, and Spain, with Iranian saffron being the most popular in Malaysia due to its affordability without compromising quality.

Things To Do in Sabah, Malaysia

A comprehensive trip in Sabah can easily take around two weeks. Starting from Kota Kinabalu and moving further inland, the route passes through highlands and valleys, going from one top spot to another (KOTA BELUD SABAH WHAT TO DO). 

At the very northern tip lies Tanjung Simpang Mengayau in Kudat, famously known as the Tip of Borneo. It is literally the northernmost point of Sabah and all of Borneo. Here, the South China Sea meets the Sulu Sea, marking the end of the land and the beginning of the endless sea.

Things to Do in Kota Belud, Sabah, Malaysia

The second-largest state in Malaysia, Sabah, lies along both the South China Sea and the Sulu Sea, making it one of Malaysia’s top nature destinations. Its coastal districts stretch from Kuala Penyu on the west coast to Kinabatangan and Pitas on the east coast. Along the west coast, the shoreline extends northward from Kuala Penyu to Kota Belud, a district on Sabah’s northwest coast.

Kota Belud is home to the Kadazan-Dusun and Bajau communities and is known for its peaceful rural charm and traditional villages. A day is usually sufficient to explore the district, but an overnight stay in Kota Belud allows for a more relaxed pace.

Sabah, Malaysia - Things to Do in Kuala Penyu

Sabah, a state in East Malaysia on the northern part of Borneo Island, is also known as the “Land Below the Wind.” This nickname comes from Sabah’s location south of the typhoon belt in the Pacific, which means it generally avoids the storms that affect the Philippines and northern Pacific islands. It highlights Sabah’s calmer climate and safer location (YOGYAKARTA INDONESIA THINGS TO DO). 

Sabah is bordered by Sarawak to the southwest and Indonesian Kalimantan to the south, and lies across the sea from the Philippines to the northeast. Sabah is surrounded by the South China Sea to the west, the Sulu Sea to the north and northeast, and the Celebes Sea to the east.

Cumin Rice (Rice-Cooker Style)

The daily cooked rice, a staple food for Asians, Malaysians included, can easily be elevated to another level. Everyday white rice can get mundane and boring, and to break away from it, all you need is to reach for common kitchen ingredients. A handful of cumin seeds, one of the essential Indian spices (INDIAN LEAFY VEGGIE STIR-FRY) for curries and stir-fries, when cooked with rice, infuses fragrant, subtly spiced, and peppery notes.

Fry the cumin seeds in ghee first, letting its buttery aroma coat the rice, then add a red chili for a hint of heat (VEGETARIAN KANGKUNG/WATER SPINACH SALAD). This simple step brings the much-loved flavors of Indian cooking to life. The best part? It’s cooked entirely in the rice cooker, Cumin Rice Indian-Style, the homely yet flavorful upgrade to your daily rice.

Indian Fish Curry Recipe

A long list of ingredients is typical for Indian Fish Curry, but it’s the spices that truly define its deliciousness. Without them, the curry would be simple and mild, lacking the bold Indian flavors. The good news is, with easily available store-bought spice powders or ready-made fish curry powders, this dish becomes simple and convenient to prepare.

But this isn’t your ordinary fish curry (TAMARIND FRIED FISH). It’s enhanced with mango, adding a natural burst of sourness that complements the spices. The curry also uses tomatoes and tomato paste, which not only add depth but give it a vibrant color. This version is somewhat similar to a South African Fish Curry, explaining the choice of ingredients and flavor profile (MALAYSIAN MUTTON CURRY).

Vegetarian Bak Kut Teh

The food culture has changed over the years. For reasons of healthy living or a wellness lifestyle, more people are becoming vegetarians, vegans, or following a plant-based diet. Some are born vegetarians, while others convert to embrace the vegetarian lifestyle. This shift has increased the demand for vegetarian food, especially for home-cooked meals.

Take Bak Kut Teh  as an example. The traditional Chinese herbal soup (QUICK CHINESE VEGETABLE STIR-FRY) made with Chinese herbs as the core ingredient. These days, there are choices, and it’s easy to pick one that’s affordable.

Vegetarian Water Spinach Salad (Urap Kangkung)

In Malaysia, water spinach, commonly known as “kangkung”, is a well-loved vegetable in Malaysian cuisine. A simple favorite is stir-fried kangkung with garlic, while Kangkung Belacan, water spinach stir-fried with shrimp paste, is another popular dish. Among the most common Malay (VEGETARIAN ASAM PEDAS/SOUR SPICY CURRY) and Indonesian dishes featuring kangkung is Urap Kangkung, a traditional vegetarian water spinach salad.

 

Urap Kangkung is a type of salad related to Kerabu Kangkung, though the ingredients can vary. In both dishes, the water spinach is softened in hot water before being tossed or mixed with other ingredients. The result is a fresh, tasty, and healthy Southeast Asian salad.

Spinach Cheese Recipe

In Malaysia, tofu is often preferred over Indian cottage cheese, but in India, paneer (homemade Indian cheese) is a staple ingredient. While tofu is made from soybeans and paneer from milk, both are protein sources for vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. Paneer is indeed an alternative to tofu and is now widely available in Indian grocery stores as ready-made cheese.

Feel free to substitute tofu for Indian cottage cheese. However, the classic Spinach Cheese dish, known as Palak Paneer, is a comforting home-style dish that combines paneer and spinach into a creamy, satisfying recipe (SPINACH COCONUT MILK CURRY VEGETARIAN).

Quick Chinese Vegetable Stir-Fry

A beloved Chinese dish, known for its crunchy, colorful vegetables and healthy, vegetarian-friendly appeal. This quick and easy vegetable stir-fry is so flavorful, you can enjoy it on its own without any side dishes or rice for a simple night meal.

The addition of roasted cashew nuts brings a rich, buttery crunch that complements the fresh vegetables perfectly. Soaked and softened fu chuk sheets (tofu sheets) add a delightful chewy texture and absorb the savory sauce beautifully. Meanwhile, dried chillies lend a spicy kick that balances the dish’s flavours.

Vegetable Stir-Fry Recipe: Ponnanganni Keerai

Ponnanganni Keerai, also known as Sessile Joyweed, is a nutritious Indian green leafy vegetable packed with vitamins and minerals. Popular in traditional South Indian cooking (VEGETABLE KURMA CURRY), this humble green is valued not only for its mild bitterness but also for its many health benefits, from cooling the body to improving digestion.

Ponnanganni keerai is commonly found at local markets, usually sold by Indian vegetable traders, but it’s also easy to grow at home. Simply plant the stems after plucking the leaves for cooking. They’ll thrive with minimal care, for your home garden.

Vegetable Kurma Curry Recipe

Kurma curry ranges from chicken, mutton and beef to vegetable versions. The kurma mix generally consists of common ingredients (SPINACH COCONUT MILK CURRY VEGETARIAN), with variations depending on the country or specific region. The differences mainly come down to the spices used and whether it’s a homemade kurma paste or a store-bought curry mix.

Nowadays, countless brands offer a variety of curry mixes, including kurma curry. These ready-made mixes are convenient for quick recipes, catering to today’s busy lifestyle. While the essential ingredients remain in ready-made kurma powders or mixes, some differences may occur between brands.

Spinach Coconut Milk Curry Recipe (Bayam Masak Lemak)

A perfect combination: spinach and coconut milk. Both are affordable superfoods. When it comes to spinach, there are a couple of varieties, including Amaranth Spinach. It is truly affordable and can be cooked into spinach stir fry, anchovies spinach soup, lentil spinach curry, and many more spinach recipes.

Today’s recipe is also a curry style, Malay-style vegetable curry (VEGETABLE SOUR SPICY CURRY/ASAM PEDAS). It falls under vegetarian and vegan recipes. It begins with making the rempah, a homemade spice mix. Then, amaranth is added, which is mild and slightly sweet. Cooked with the spice mix and coconut milk, it becomes a thick, mildly sweet curry. The curry is a vibrant color mix of yellow, green, red, and reddish-purple, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious.