Wednesday, September 4, 2024

Penang Food Guide: Where & What To Eat

A tourist joyfully posing beside the Ernest Zacharevic bicycle mural in Penang, featuring a painted bicycle with two children playfully depicted as if riding along
Hungry for more culinary adventures (PENANG FOOD FINDS)? Let's keep the food hunt going! Calling all fellow foodies to join me as we uncover more delicious eateries across Penang Island (PENANG SIGHTSEEING SPOTS). No time to waste - let's dive right in! Because let's be real, food isn't just a necessity; it's a passion that fuels our lives (PENANG THAIPUSAM JOURNEY OF FAITH). So, are you ready to embark on this flavorful journey with me?

Passions Of Kerala (Taman Brown, Gelugor)

As the name suggests, Passions Of Kerala serves up traditional Kerala cuisine, made from scratch. For lunch, the obvious choice is a banana leaf meal. Along with rice, you'll get curries, chutney, pickle, and side dishes. We also added fried fish, mutton parathal, and chicken parathal. As we dug in, we agreed it was a decent meal. However, the bold flavors didn’t really wake up our taste buds or leave a lasting impression.

Monday, September 2, 2024

Kuih Buah Melaka

Ondeh-ondeh, traditional bite-sized treats made from rice flour dough stuffed with melted palm sugar, arranged neatly in a basket
(UPDATED VERSION)

Let me take you on a journey into the world of Kuih Gula Melaka, a delightful Malaysian treat that holds a special spot in my heart. Originating from Melaka (MALACCA FOOD FIESTA), it's also known as Ondeh-Ondeh in some parts of the country. Imagine this - small, sticky rice balls filled with palm sugar syrup, all coated in fragrant grated coconut. It's a heavenly mix of sweetness and texture that always leaves me craving for more.

 

Now, if you're thinking of trying your hand at making Kuih Gula Melaka, let me share some tips I've picked up along the way. It's been a while since I last whipped up a batch, but every time I do, it feels like reconnecting with an old friend. First things first, make sure your dough isn't too sticky - trust me, you don't want a gooey mess on your hands. Wetting your palms can make shaping the balls a breeze. And whatever you do, resist the temptation to stuff too much palm sugar inside. Overdoing it can lead to cracked balls, and nobody wants that. Oh, and don't forget to chop the palm sugar (WAJIK PULUT/GLUTINOUS RICE CAKES) into tiny pieces for maximum sweetness in every bite.

Indian Cauliflower Recipes - Vegetarian

Batter fried cauliflower florets, coated in a thick spicy soy sauce sauce, garnished with spring onion
(Updated Version)

Did you know there are so many recipes you can create with cauliflower? It used to be quite expensive, but over the years, it has become more affordable. Traditionally, cauliflower is stir-fried with spices in Indian recipes or added to curries—both of which are included in this sharing. But that's not all! I’ll also share other exciting dishes you can make with cauliflower.

Sunday, September 1, 2024

Mandarin Orange Recipes: Zen Wellness Cake, Sorbet & Marmalade

Mandarin orange vegetarian cakes, featuring a half-loaf and slices displayed on a flat baking tray, with a knife resting beside them
(Updated Version)

Every year, those mandarins start rolling in like an unexpected gold rush. You know the drill- people you barely see suddenly become your best friends, just as their surplus of mandarins is about to turn into compost. They play it sly, waiting until they’ve exhausted all other options and then “generously” pass on the citrus burden to you. It’s a guilt trip wrapped in orange peel, hitting all the right notes of “Indian sentiment,” though oddly enough, you’re never on their invite list for Chinese New Year festivities.

 

Ah, cultural quirks in Malaysia! It’s a dance of exchange and expectations. Deepavali might have you knee-deep in preparations and guests, but when it comes to Chinese New Year, you get the oranges and the occasional cookie—no dinner invites or grand feasts for you.

Erectile Dysfunction and Libido in Modern Men: Yoga's Natural Remedy

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
Erectile dysfunction (ED) and reduced libido present profound challenges for men, intertwined with complex emotional and physical struggles. This article investigates the transformative role of yoga as a holistic remedy for these conditions, presenting it as a powerful complement to traditional treatments. Yoga offers multifaceted benefits: it enhances blood circulation, alleviates stress, balances hormones, and improves overall physical health, all of which contribute to enhanced sexual performance and libido. Beyond its physical advantages, yoga cultivates a deeper mind-body connection, boosts self-confidence, and fosters emotional well-being.

Thursday, August 29, 2024

Asam Laksa Recipe: Nyonya Style

Nyonya Asam Laksa with garnishing served with a scoop of Petis Udang in a white spoon
(Updated Version)

A bowl of vibrant broth, noodles, and a mix of fresh ingredients - this is the essence of Asam Laksa (PENANG GUIDE: WHERE & WHAT TO EAT). While the standard version is well-loved, have you tried Nyonya Asam Laksa? Let me share my take on this flavorful dish (MALACCA'S FOOD FIESTA). But before we dive into the recipe, here’s what you need to know when preparing Asam Laksa:

 

Fish Type 

I use sardines and Indian mackerel, but feel free to experiment with other fish to discover your preferred flavor.

Wednesday, August 28, 2024

Chinese Prawn Recipes: 4 Varieties

Tiger prawns cooked with ginger, garlic, soy sauce, red chillies, kaffir lime leaves  and lime juice.
(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.

Tuesday, August 27, 2024

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.

Indian Food Near Me: Restaurant Dhiyaz Curry House

Restaurant Dhiyaz Curry House, which opened its doors in April, is one of the newer additions to the growing list of eateries in the now-pop...