Suji Cookies Recipe

Crumbly, crunchy, and scented with ghee, these golden yellow Suji Cookies are a festive favorite. Also known as Sujee Cookies, semolina cookies, or spelled as Sugee Cookies, they are usually made for celebrations like Hari Raya, Deepavali, or Chinese New Year (SEMOLINA/SUGEE CAKE). 

This is a simple 4-ingredient recipe (excluding cherries), but the ingredients are flexible. For less sweet cookies, use less sugar. For richer, more indulgent cookies, add extra ghee.

Sambal Belacan

Fiery, salty, tangy, and packed with umami, this is the classic Malaysian spicy dip. Sambal belacan, also known as Chili Shrimp Paste Sauce, is a no-cook or raw dip made traditionally with a mortar and pestle, or more quickly with a food processor or blender (NASI KERABU/HERBS RICE). 

This world-famous condiment comes in various versions. Apart from the popular Malaysian sambal belacan, there is the Thai-style sambal belacan and the Indonesian sambal belacan, also called Sambal Terasi. Each has its own preferred ingredients and flavors.

Misdiagnosis of Depression in Menopause: Yoga for Relief

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 examines the misdiagnosis of depression during menopause and the potential benefits of yoga as a complementary treatment. It highlights the limitations of conventional approaches that often oversimplify menopausal symptoms by labeling them as depression. Through the author's personal experiences, it is demonstrated how yoga can offer significant relief and mental clarity beyond what is typically achieved with standard medical treatments. 

The discussion emphasizes the importance of integrating yoga into mental health care, not only as a supplementary remedy but as a vital tool for enhancing overall well-being. The findings suggest that a more nuanced understanding of menopause-related mental health issues and the inclusion of yoga in treatment plans can lead to improved outcomes and greater self-reliance.

Easy Mango Sticky Rice Recipe - Thai Style

Khao Niew Mamuang, or Thai mango sticky rice, is a dessert loved across the globe, and for good reason. This Thai classic brings together fragrant glutinous rice (KUIH BUAH MELAKA/ONDEH ONDEH RECIPE), rich coconut milk, and sweet, juicy mango for a refreshing tropical treat.

In Thai, “Khao Niew” means sticky or glutinous rice, and “Mamuang” means mango. You’ll often find this dessert sold at street stalls in Thailand, but trust me, not every version is worth raving about. I’ve tasted many, even right in Thailand (RED RUBIES IN COCONUT MILK), and some were just average. But when it’s good, it’s really good, sticky rice that’s soft but not mushy, coconut milk that’s sweet and salty, and mango that melts in your mouth (THINGS TO DO IN THAILAND).

PIneapple Tarts Recipe

Golden and mildly crispy pastry filled with spiced pineapple jam,   that’s the  captivating  pineapple tarts. This recipe features the open-face version, also known as Nyonya pineapple tarts, a favorite during festive seasons and special occasions. Making pineapple tarts may be a tedious job, but homemade tarts are always worth the effort (TEA GOJI BERRY JELLY). 

What makes these homemade pineapple tarts unique compared to other fruity tarts?

 

Butter

Creates an extra crumbly, melt-in-the-mouth texture (BUTTER CAKE RECIPE). 

 

Corn flour

Binds the dough, making it tender and crisp, while enhancing the filling and extending shelf life.

Istanbul, Turkey

Uniquely positioned at the junction of Europe and Asia, Turkey is a country that shares land borders with eight countries. It is also surrounded by the Aegean Sea to the west, the Mediterranean Sea to the south, and the Black Sea to the north. With over 85 million people, the official language is Turkish, though English is widely spoken in tourist areas (COPENHAGEN DENMARK SITES). 

Most travelers enter Turkey through Istanbul Airport, though there are also airports in Ankara and Izmir. Mention Istanbul, and the words mentioned are stunning, historic, and aplenty things to do in Istanbul. Truly a must-visit city for Turkey travel. No surprise, countless attractions in Istanbul have stood the test of time, drawing travelers from throughout the world (VENICE ITALY THINGS TO DO). 

Easy Pork Belly with Salted Fish

Pork belly and salted fish. Imagine these two ingredients coming together in one Chinese dish. That’s Pork Belly (PORK CHOPS CHINESE STYLE) with Salted Fish, a popular and much-loved recipe. You’ll often find it at Chinese mix rice stalls, and in restaurants, it’s served bubbling hot in a claypot as Claypot Pork Belly with Salted Fish.

At home, though, it’s all about easy cooking. This steamed version is simple and even considered the healthier choice. Just prep the ingredients, place them on a steaming tray, and steam away.

Thai Red Prawn Curry

Bright red, rich, and filled with the aroma of Thai herbs. Exactly how a Thai Red Prawn Curry should be. Thai curries are usually made with one of the three main pastes: red, yellow, or green curry paste (THAI GREEN EGG CURRY). This recipe uses the Thai red curry paste, the key to bold and fragrant flavor.

There are different ways to prepare red curry paste, from simple homemade versions to more complex blends. A vegetarian red curry paste works as a good base and can be easily adapted into a non-vegetarian curry. Choice of Thai herbs and ingredients can also be adjusted to taste.

Chinese Rice Congee

Rice congee is the watery, lighter version of rice. It’s comfort food at its best. Ideal for rainy or chilly days when you need warmth. Or for those times you’re under the weather yet still crave rice, just in a soft, soupy form. And of course, for true congee lovers, anytime is a good time for a bowl of rice congee.

While congee recipes may seem similar across cultures, Chinese rice congee stands out because it’s not cooked into a mushy, sticky lump. 

Instead, the rice grains remain soft, grainy, and cooked to just the right texture, with enough water to create a light, soothing broth.

Jelly Recipe: Chrysanthemum Goji Berry Jelly

Herbal jelly with loads of health benefits. It’s indeed a Chinese jelly recipe, as chrysanthemum tea and dried goji berries are part of their cooking. Imagine the refreshing and cooling chrysanthemum tea and also the natural sweetness of goji berries (THAI RED RUBIES). 

In a mildly crunchy, yet wobbly jelly, made with lump sugar. Let alone only 4 ingredients (excluding water) for this not a common jelly. But it’s truly a sweet dessert pleasure, whether preferred at room temperature or after chilling in the fridge (ONDEH-ONDEH/KUIH BUAH MELAKA). 

Indian Crab Rasam (Crab Soup)

Among the versions of Indian Crab Rasam (Nandu Rasam), from rustic village-style to modern twists, this spiced South Indian Crab Soup stands out as both nourishing and tasty. Whether you cook with the meaty claws of mud crabs or the smaller legs of blue crabs, the choice is yours (EASY CRAB CURRY).

You can prepare the rasam paste from scratch with fresh spices or use a ready-made spice powder.

 

From a quick, simple crab rasam to a more elaborate version, the heart of the dish lies in a blend of Indian spices. Simmered with crab claws, tamarind juice, tomato, and curry leaves, it carries a bold, spiced taste.

Sri Lankan Mango Fish Curry: Miris Malu:

Village cooking, traditional cooking,  also Kerala style and Sri Lankan style heritage cooking (SRI LANKAN COCONUT MILK FISH). Cooking in clay pot is not only truly meaningful, but considered healthier because it preserves nutrients, requires less oil, and allows slow, even cooking.

This fish curry takes the Sri Lankan fish curry recipe, known as Miris Mallu, cooked in clay pot, but with its own tweet and twist. Still, featuring from a stratch, homemade curry paste. Pan roasted spices to release their aromas, and traditionally pounded, but for easy cooking, blended (KEEMA RECIPE). 

Chilli Chicken Recipe: Chinese Style

A popular order during Chinese meals, or as one of the dishes in a Chinese mix rice (chap fun) eatery, Chilli Chicken features dried red chilies, spring onions, and soy sauce with tender chicken pieces. Its simplicity makes it a sincerely appetizing dish (BEANS STIR-FRY CHINESE STYLE). 

This recipe follows the same high-fire stir-frying (woi hei) style found in eateries. It also includes crispy fried cashew nuts. This gives it the name Cashew Nut Chilli Chicken or Chilli Chicken Cashew Nut, depending on which you prefer to put first.

 

Get your plate of rice ready. The pairing does not have to be elaborate for this classic Chinese-style chilli chicken (CHILLI PRAWNS CHINESE STYLE). 

Kuih Buah Melaka/Ondeh-Ondeh

Whether known as Kuih Buah Melaka, or spelled as onde-onde or ondeh-ondeh, it’s one of Malaysia’s beloved traditional desserts, or kuih-muih (WAJIK PULUT/GLUTINOUS RICE CAKE). 

Taking a bite into the chewy, pandan-scented glutinous rice balls coated with palm sugar (Gula Melaka), bursting in your mouth, is a true Malaysian treat.

 

Back then, white glutinous rice (pulut putih) was soaked overnight, rinsed, and pounded into flour. These days, making ondeh-ondeh is easier with store-bought glutinous flour, making the process convenient and time-saving.

Crispy Fried Cauliflower Recipe: Gobi 65

Crispy fried cauliflower florets, also known as Gobi 65, are coated in a spiced batter and fried to a golden crisp. Each floret puffs up with a vibrant yellow hue from turmeric, with curry leaves in the batter adding fragrance and visual appeal (POTATO CURRY VEGETARIAN).

This batter-fried cauliflower is a vegetarian take on the famous Chicken 65, offering a crunchy, aromatic snack or appetizer.

 

To make this Gobi 65 recipe, start with the batter. The consistency is key. Too thick, and it overpowers the cauliflower; too thin, and the florets won’t hold together. The right balance seals in each floret for a crispy exterior and a tender bite inside.

Orange Cake Recipe: Eggless

The scent of orange cake, both while baking and after, is uplifting to the tastebuds. A fresh citrus burst in every bite makes this cake simply delicious. That’s exactly what this recipe is about, an eggless and vegetarian orange cake. It uses fresh orange juice and zest from Mandarin oranges.

If Mandarin is not available, any type of orange or even store-bought juice will do. Just ensure store-bought juice is sugar-free, as condensed milk already adds sweetness (NO-BAKE CHEESECAKE). 

Asam Laksa Recipe: Nyonya Style

What makes this Asam Laksa unique and outstanding? It’s a bowl of colorful fish broth, noodles, and fresh toppings. This is the Nyonya Style Asam Laksa, known for its aromatic fresh herbs, which form the base of the fish soup (TOM YUM FISH).

Unlike the typical reddish or dark brown fish soups, this recipe features a yellow hue from fresh turmeric.

 

The rest is mostly about making the fish soup and choosing toppings. Common choices include pineapple for natural sweet and sour notes. There’s no compromising on spiciness, add red chillies or even bird’s eye chillies to taste (HONGKONG WONTON NOODLE SOUP). Garnish with fresh mint leaves for an extra aromatic touch.

Chilli Prawns Recipe: Chinese Style

Succulent, juicy prawns stir-fried in soy sauce, spiced with red chilies, and lifted by the aroma of kaffir lime leaves. This is not your usual chili prawns, and not even the typical Chinese-style chilli prawns. It’s a tweaked version.

Made with common Chinese ingredients but infused with kaffir lime leaves instead of spring onions or coriander (PORK CHOPS RECIPE). 

 

Think of it as a touch of fusion Chinese cooking. Tiger prawns as the star, cooked skin-on for maximum tastiness.

Red Rubies with Coconut Milk

Looking for the best Thai dessert to make at home? It has to be Thai Red Rubies with Coconut Milk, also known as Tub Tim Grob in Thai. This popular dessert is refreshing, chewy, and coconut-creamy, perfect for hot days.

Red Rubies are water chestnuts (or turnips as a substitute) coated in tapioca flour, boiled until translucent, and served in sweetened coconut milk, often with a touch of pandan (screwpine) leaves for fragrance, just like in many Malaysian desserts.

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

A bowl of wonton noodles in prawn-based soup - bouncy prawn wontons, leafy Chinese kale, and a sprinkle of spring onion. Hong Kong–Style Wonton Noodle Soup recipe: sumptuous and satisfying (CANTONESE YEE MEE). 

 

The prawn broth is effortless to make. The wontons, however, take some work. It’s less about how pretty they look. It’s more about preparing the prawn filling and wrapping them in store-bought skins. This can take some time.

 

Once that’s done, and the prawn broth is seasoned, its about assembling a hearty bowl of homemade wonton noodle goodness.

No-Cook Carrot Coconut Salad: Sri Lankan Style

Fresh, crunchy, with a hint of mild spice and tang, and fragrant with coriander leaves. This no-cook carrot coconut salad is sheer pleasure. Its vibrant color immediately catches the eye.

While not exactly a classic Carrot Mallum (since cucumber isn’t included) and comparable to Carrot Kosambari without the split yellow moong dal and curry leaves, it remains a beloved raw salad featuring fresh coconut (SRI LANKAN COCONUT MILK FISH).

Wajik Pulut: Glutinous Rice Cake Recipe

Wajik Pulut is a traditional Malay dessert made with glutinous rice, coconut milk, palm sugar, and pandan leaves. This sticky rice cake is part of Malay kuih-muih, or sweet treats (PULUT INTI/GLUTINOUS SWEET COCONUT), often served during celebrations. Traditionally, making Wajik Pulut takes hours, as the rice needs constant stirring.

This easy homemade Wajik Pulut recipe is lighter and faster. You can reduce sugar and coconut milk for a healthier version. The rice is steamed until soft, then stirred into a thick coconut palm sugar mixture, cutting down on cooking time. 

Basically, stirring a couple of times until it becomes a sticky rice dough. 

What to Eat in Penang - Chinese Food

Food is the heart of Penang (PENANG MALAY FOOD GUIDE). Tourists, locals, and food lovers from around the world visit the island to experience its flavors. Among all the options, Penang Chinese food stands out. From family-run eateries and bustling food courts to hawker stalls and high-end restaurants, Chinese dishes consistently draw crowds.

 

Chinese cuisine has deep roots in Penang, brought by early settlers from Hokkien, Cantonese, Teochew, and Hainanese communities. They adapted their traditional recipes using local ingredients, creating dishes that are truly unique to Penang. Passed down through generations, these recipes continue to attract food lovers from everywhere (WHAT TO EAT IN SOUTH AFRICA). 

It’s impossible to list every dish, as each is special in its own way. Still, some are widely loved and considered must-try Chinese dishes in Penang, even though taste is always personal.

Penang Asam Laksa

Asam Laksa is one of the most famous Chinese dishes in Penang. It has a thick, tangy fish broth made with tamarind and a mix of herbs and spices. The broth is simmered with fish, assembled with noodles, and pineapple, cucumber, and red chillies for adding spiciness, tanginess, and texture. Depending on how spicy it is, it can really wake up your taste buds!

 

This dish has its roots in the local Peranakan culture, where Chinese and Malay culinary traditions meet. What makes Penang Asam Laksa special is the balance of sour, spicy, and savory flavors, as well as the combination of fresh ingredients that give it a distinctive texture. Unlike other laksa varieties, the sourness from tamarind is the highlight, making it refreshing and unique.

 

When people think of Penang Asam Laksa, Air Itam Asam Laksa is often the first place that comes to mind. They mainly operate on weekends now, but equally delicious bowls can be found at other spots.

 

Top Picks
• My Own Café - Cannon Street, George Town
• Mute Asam Laksa - next door to Air Itam Asam Laksa
• Penang Road Famous Laksa - No. 5 Lebuh Keng Kwee, George Town

Penang Curry Mee (Penang Curry Laksa)
Penang Curry Mee, also called Curry Laksa, is a beloved Penang noodle dish known for its spicy, aromatic curry broth. Choices of noodles include yellow noodles, mee hoon (rice noodles), kuey teow (flat rice noodles), or a mix of these. The noodles are blanched, and the thick curry is assembled on top with toppings like chicken, pork, seafood, and the local favourite, blood cockles.

 

Some bowls are enhanced with coconut milk, while others keep the curry lighter and spicier. Curry Mee can be found at market stalls, night markets, food courts, and specialty restaurants. Clay pot Curry Mee has also become popular, giving the dish a traditional, authentic feel with its slow-cooked aroma.

 

What makes Penang Curry Mee special is the combination of flavors and textures—the spiciness of the curry, the chewiness of the noodles, and the freshness of the toppings all come together in one satisfying bowl. For those looking for authentic Penang curry noodles, trying different stalls and eateries is part of the experience, as every vendor has their own unique twist.

 

Top Picks
• Air Itam Sister Curry Mee - Air Itam
• Lorong Seratus Tahun Curry Mee - Lorong Seratus Tahun, George Town
• Tua Pui Curry Mee - Lebuh Kimberley, George Town

Penang Char Koay Teow
Penang Char Koay Teow is one of the most popular Chinese dishes in Penang. Those who have tried it know why, and those who haven’t may find themselves coming back for more.

Available throughout Penang, this beloved wok-fried flat rice noodle dish is made with prawns, egg, bean sprouts, chives, and often Chinese sausage or fresh cockles. For cockle lovers, no Penang Char Koay Teow is complete without them.

 

The best plates are fried over high heat, with each noodle strand separated yet silky soft, like lifting ribbons with chopsticks. A generous dollop of chili paste adds the spiciness many crave. While widely available, finding the best Penang Char Koay Teow can be a challenge. Foodies and reviews consistently point to these top spots. 

 

Top Picks
• Tiger Char Koay Teow - Ping Hooi Café, Carnarvon Street
• Siam Road Char Koay Teow - Siam Road, George Town
• Ah Leng Char Koay Teow - Jalan Dato Keramat, George Town

Penang Ice Kacang (Ais Kacang)

Penang Ice Kacang, also called Ais Kacang, is a classic Penang dessert and a favourite among locals and tourists alike. It starts with a mountain of finely shaved ice, assembled with toppings like red beans, sweet corn, grass jelly, and attap chee. The dessert is drizzled with red sugar syrup, sometimes green, and finished with either condensed milk or coconut milk for sweetness and creaminess. Some variations include peanuts, jelly cubes, or durian for added flavor.

 

A popular street food in Penang, Ice Kacang has been served for generations. Stalls are often busy, and when all tables and chairs are full, standing to have a bowl becomes part of the experience. Its combination of textures - soft shaved ice, chewy toppings, and smooth syrup, makes it an irresistible treat, especially on hot, humid days. 

 

Top Picks
• Kek Seng Coffee Shop - Penang Road, George Town
• Penang Road Famous Teochew Chendul - Lebuh Keng Kwee (off Penang Road), George Town
• Presgrave Street Hawker Centre (3rd Road Ice Kacang) - Lebuh Presgrave, George Town

Penang Hainanese White Bread Toast

Penang Hainanese White Bread Toast is a classic breakfast staple in Penang, found in most kopitiams and Chinese coffee shops. Many traditional vendors still bake their own white loaves, often sold by the loaf. The bread is sliced and either steamed or grilled. Some places serve kaya and butter (or margarine) separately, allowing customers to spread as they like, while others serve it pre-filled.

 

This toast is commonly paired with soft-boiled eggs and a cup of coffee, making it a simple yet satisfying breakfast. Its popularity has kept it widely available across generations and a signature item in Penang.

Penang Chinese Coffee and Tea
Penang Chinese coffee and tea are traditional beverages in Penang, served in porcelain cups and saucers in kopitiams and Chinese coffee shops. Coffee (kopi) and tea (teh) are typically brewed thick and strong using a cloth sock filter. They can be sweetened with condensed or evaporated milk, or served black with just a touch of sugar. For some, the flavour may be strong and the sweetness pronounced, so it’s common to request less or no sugar.

 

These drinks are served all over Penang and pair well with many meals, from spicy dishes to breakfast combos and lunch options. Whether at plastic tables and chairs or at marble tables with wooden chairs, the choice of where to have them depends on personal taste.

Asam Pedas Ikan Bawal

Asam Pedas, absolutely fragrant and reddish in hue, oozes with popular Malaysian Malay herbs. This is the Malay-style spicy gravy, cooked with a variety of local herbs and the tang of tamarind pieces.

 

The herbs blended as a rempah (spice paste) are packed with numerous health benefits, adding nutrients to the dish. Fish, such as black pomfret (ikan bawal hitam), provides protein, making Asam Pedas one of the healthiest Malay foods (EGG SAMBAL/SAMBAL TELUR). 

 

You can also choose not to fry the spice paste, which is then called Asam Pedas Rebus, but frying enhances the fragrance and flavour profile of the herbs.

Mango Pickle Recipe

One of those dishes you can make ahead, bottle, and store in the fridge. Mango pickle(Aam ka Achar) is tangy, spicy, and aromatic, filled with the fragrance of curry leaves and spices (TOMATO CHUTNEY). 

Making it is simple, with a straightforward recipe and easy cooking style. It doesn’t need to be loud or overpowering. Everyday Indian spices, along with the beloved curry leaves, come together.

 

Once cooked, the mango cubes coated in chili powder and spices make the chutney irresistible, almost impossible to wait to pair with a meal (POTATO SAMBAL VEGETARIAN). 

Tanni Saar (Sweet Leaf In Dhal Gravy)

Sweet leaves, known as Tauchimurangai in Tamil and Cekur Manis in Malay, are cooked with dhal and light coconut milk. When scented with spices and curry leaves, they make Tanni Saar (Sweet Leaf In Dhal Gravy). A traditional, authentic Indian dish. It’s a dish you will yearn for at least once a month.

 

For those intending to grow Tauchimurangai keerai, there is little to do. Simply poke the stems into the soil after plucking the leaves. Buying a bunch of sweet leaves is also inexpensive, which you can use for stir-fried sweet leaves.

Prawn Mee Recipe

Prawn mee is a mouthwatering Chinese noodle dish made with prawn stock, noodles, and  toppings, served with a spicy dip. There are a few varieties, including the Penang version, Hae Mee, and another called Mee Yoke. Whatever the style, the heart of prawn mee is the prawn stock (PRAWN FRIED MEE).

How to make prawn stock
Simmer prawn heads and shells in water to extract flavor.
You can also lightly fry the heads and shells in oil first.
Pour water, add salt, and simmer to extract the prawny stock.
Strain to discard the heads and shells.

Aging Faster Today: Yoga as a Natural Anti-Aging Therapy

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 paper explores the profound benefits of yoga as a natural remedy for anti-aging, contrasting it with contemporary quick-fix solutions and aesthetic treatments. Yoga is presented not merely as a physical exercise but as a holistic approach that nurtures the breath, body, mind, and soul, offering significant advantages for maintaining a youthful appearance and overall vitality. The paper highlights how yoga fosters genuine skin nourishment and rejuvenation, reducing the reliance on heavy makeup and superficial enhancements. However, it also cautions against overdoing yoga, as excessive practice can lead to fatigue, injury, and may paradoxically accelerate the aging process.

Tomato Chutney Recipe: Indian Style

An accompaniment, a side dish, or even a spread for sandwiches and burgers. Indian-style tomato chutney is like a thick tomato sauce that is spicy, sweet, tangy, and aromatic.

There are two common cooking styles. One is chopping the tomatoes and cooking them with the rest of the ingredients after sautéing until the tomatoes turn soft and mushy. The other is blanching the tomatoes, mashing them, and then adding them to the sautéed ingredients along with curry leaves (SPINACH DAL RECIPE).