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.
Identify Stress
The first step is awareness. Take a moment to sit with a pen and paper, and write down what’s troubling you. Be honest and genuine - this isn’t about blaming others but about taking ownership of your stressors.
In today’s fast-paced world, maintaining mental health can be challenging, especially when constantly surrounded by people. As a yoga coach and counselor, I’ve gathered insights from my experiences with clients and observations during yoga sessions. Here are some best mental health tips to help you stay practical and protect your mental well-being.
One of the joys of traveling for me is tucking into various cuisines. In Sri Lanka (COLOMBO, SRI LANKA) I discovered how spices, coconut milk, coconut oil, and the freshest seafood shape the incredible flavors of their dishes. Through tasting and learning from kind locals, I brought home a slice of Sri Lankan culinary wisdom. Here's to Sri Lankan Fish Curry, or Malu Hodhi (SALTED FISH PINEAPPLE CURRY).
I’m a huge fan of salads - how about you? I enjoy a variety of salads (AVOCADO TOFU SALAD), and Indian salads? They’re refreshing, crunchy, spicy, and tangy. While salads, in general, are healthy, Indian salads take it up a notch.
When I used to host gatherings, Indian salads were always a hit because they’re so easy to prepare: just slice or cut the ingredients, which are both accessible and affordable. You can prepare them in advance, store them in the fridge, and serve them chilled or at room temperature. Isn’t that a fantastic way to entertain, rather than spending hours stir-frying vegetables (ZESTY MALAY OKRA SALAD).
Roses are among the most beloved flowers worldwide, cherished for their exquisite beauty and enchanting fragrance. I particularly adore red roses for their vibrant hue and natural elegance, though I also grow roses in other colors. While they brighten any garden, growing roses isn't as simple as it may seem. After years of trial and error, I've adapted to cultivating these stunning blooms. Here's how you can grow your own roses, even in challenging climates like Malaysia's (GARDENING TIPS FOR BEGINNERS).
Soil Type
In Malaysia,
clay soil dominates, which isn’t ideal for roses. Clay hardens quickly,
especially in hot weather, resembling rocks that can dry out roots. To counter
this, I dig up the clay, mix in black compost soil, and plant the roses in this
enriched blend. This keeps moisture levels balanced and promotes healthy
growth.
Growing in Pots
Since my garden is reserved for herbs and veggies, I grow roses in pots. For potting, I use black soil mixed with coco peat. Over time, the soil can dry out, so I periodically aerate it using a gardening fork, trim excess roots, and replenish the soil. Proper maintenance ensures water penetrates the soil, nourishing the roots (HOW TO GROW CHILLIES).
Fertilizing
Roses need regular feeding to bloom. I use organic fertilizers every fortnight, adhering to the recommended quantities. Over-fertilizing can harm the plants, so moderation is key.
Patience and
Care
Roses demand time, effort, and a nurturing touch. I dedicate time every fortnight to care for all my plants, including roses, herbs, and veggies. The reward of seeing fresh blooms is incomparable. Indoors, roses add elegance to vases or, in my case, serve as natural hair accessories with their delightful fragrance.
(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).
Take a whiff of the torch ginger flower and you’ll fall in love with its delicate, sweet, and subtly floral scent, reminiscent of a tropical garden. Even the leaves emit a mild, citrusy, and slightly herbal aroma. Torch ginger, also known as Pokok Kantan, and its vibrant flowers, known as Bunga Kantan, add a beautiful burst of green to any garden. Its simple elegance truly brightens up any space (PANDAN LEAVES: BENEFITS & USES)
Effortlessly made in the rice cooker, a versatile kitchen appliance designed for simple and efficient cooking. Beyond just cooking rice, I rely on the rice cooker for a variety of rice dishes. One of its best features is that you don’t have to worry about rice being burned or undercooked (LEMONGRASS RICE).
For this vibrant, colorful, and grainy rice cooked with spices, using basmati super long rice is ideal. Consider splurging on saffron strands - worth the investment for its floral earthy notes, subtle honey-like taste, and light golden hue (SAFFRON RICE).
Assumedly, no Malay function is complete without a rendang dish. Typically, it’s either beef rendang or chicken rendang. But what is rendang? It’s our Malay Malaysian dish, crafted with various local herbs, coconut milk (EASIEST MALAYSIAN NASI LEMAK RECIPE) and a choice of beef or chicken as the base. These are the essential ingredients, though variations with additional elements do exist. Today, as the recipe name suggests, it’s chicken rendang - not the usual kind, but my own version with a creative twist. Interesting, right?
Spinach lentil curry is not only easy to assemble but also bursts with flavor. For this version, I use red Malabar spinach and red lentil, though other varieties work beautifully as well. The blend of spinach, lentil, coconut milk, ghee, curry leaves, and cumin seeds elevates spinach lentil curry as a forever timeless classic Indian dish (CURRY LEAF RICE - 3 VARIETIES).
Have you realized that compared to enjoying a crab meal outside, nothing compares to savoring a crab dish at home (BLACK PEPPER & GREEN CRAB CURRY)? You can sit comfortably, take your time, and use your fingers to dig in, feeling the spiciness ignite sparks on your lips, tongue, and throat. We cherish our home-cooked crab, and nothing beats a crab dish infused with Indian spices - thick, spicy gravy or sauce that coats the crabs, leaving them drenched in fiery, lingering flavor (EASIEST MUTTON CURRY RECIPES). This crab masala dish is exactly that. Sit back and picture yourself indulging in it? Pow!!!
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.
No-Cook Vegetarian Okra Salad, or Kerabu Bendi as it's known among the Malaysian Malay community. Isn’t it amazing that even okra can shine in a no-cook salad? By the way, kerabu needs no introduction - I’ve previously shared Kerabu Taugeh/Bean Sprout Salad and Kerabu Mangga/Mango Salad) (KERABU TAUGEH/BEAN SPROUT SALAD).
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.
Whether you prefer them cooked to a crunchy texture or soft bites, it works beautifully. Especially when stir-fried with common kitchen staples, these effortless, quick dishes are a winner. Ready to dive into the recipes? Not just one, but three easy and delicious options for you (PICKLED RED CABBAGE VEGETARIAN).
How important is sun protection? In my opinion, it’s not just important, it’s non-negotiable for anyone serious about maintaining healthy sk...
