Friday, January 10, 2025

Mental Health Tips & Benefits - Mandala

2 bohemian tapestry hanging on the separate wall. One is dark grey and design, the other, orange, yellow and white.
Mental health and well-being have become essential topics in the 21st century. Before you dive into deep thoughts about mental health (SIMPLE MENTAL HEALTH TIPS) and risk overcomplicating things, let me assure you that mental health and well-being can also be approached gently. It’s true that the percentage of people struggling with mental health issues has risen significantly over the years.

Tuesday, January 7, 2025

Ginger Rice Recipe: Rice Cooker Style

A scoop of ginger rice topped with ginger strips, served on a banana leaf, accompanied by a stem of a ginger plant.
If not the whole world, countless voices have already extolled the benefits of ginger. So, I’m not here to be another parrot. What makes my ginger rice special? It’s made with freshly harvested ginger from Nava’s Zen - specifically, the prized Bentong Ginger variety (WHAT TO DO IN BENTONG). By the way, anyone can grow ginger. There’s no rigid rulebook for it. The same goes for making ginger rice. But a gentle reminder - too much ginger can increase body heat, so moderation is key to reaping its benefits.

Restaurant Mee Kari Jia Siang (Kota Kemuning)

Marble-top dark brown tables and stools with a long counter create the classic ambiance of a Chinese restaurant.
Recommendations and suggestions naturally come when people know you're a foodie, especially as a Zen dining blogger with a supporting YouTube channel. That’s how I ended up at Restaurant Mee Kari Jia Siang, a spot I was told I simply must try. Formerly a mixed rice restaurant, it has now pivoted to offering a variety of noodle dishes and sides.

Sunday, January 5, 2025

Stir-Fried Luncheon Meat Recipe: Korean Style

Luncheon meat cubes stir-fried with zucchini, soy sauce, honey, chili flakes, ginger, garlic, black sesame seeds, and spring onions.
Are you a fan of luncheon meat? Then this recipe is for you! Even if you're not, why not give it a shot? Before diving into the recipe, let's clear up the difference between Spam and luncheon meat.

Spam is a specific brand of canned, cooked pork, while luncheon meat is a more generic term for similar products that come in various types, including pork (PORK CHOP RECIPE), chicken, beef, or turkey. Though some criticize luncheon meat for being unhealthy, there are now higher-quality options available.

Saturday, January 4, 2025

Soto Ayam/Malaysian Chicken Noodle Soup

Broth made from chicken bones, herbs, & spices, ladled over blanched rice noodles, garnished with spring onions, coriander leaves, red chilies & crispy shallots.
The best food for rainy, chilly weather is undoubtedly comfort food. For me, comfort food means a hearty bowl of noodle soup - a wholesome, satisfying meal. Over time, I’ve made various types of chicken noodle soup, but this time I chose to prepare Soto Ayam, a Malay Malaysian Chicken Noodle Soup (VEGETABLE STEW/MASAK LODEH PUTIH)

Friday, January 3, 2025

A Day Trip To Sekinchan, Selangor

A distant view of an Indian lady in a hat, knee-length jeans, and a dark blue T-shirt, posing on the sandy beach.
Similar to Pulau Ketam (WHAT TO DO IN PULAU KETAM - PART 2), Sekinchan is another gem that leaves those who visit it singing its praises. Sekinchan is often touted as a must-visit destination, and if you haven't experienced it, it's like missing out on a significant chapter of life. This, ladies and gentlemen, sparked my curiosity to uncover the allure of Sekinchan.

Crispy Potato Cutlet Recipe: Aloo Tikki

10 medium-sized, crispy on the outside and soft inside, with the aroma of cumin seeds and coriander leaves.
One thing I've learned about cooking is that simplicity and minimal ingredients go a long way. In today's fast-paced world, a well-stocked pantry can make cooking dishes like crispy potato cutlets, or aloo tikki, a breeze. While the potatoes simmer, gather the rest of the ingredients. Once mashed, simply combine everything, shape into balls, flatten, and fry until golden.

Thursday, January 2, 2025

Malaysian Eatery : Traditional Malay Food at Ucu Talapia Terbang

(A video of my dining experience at Ucu Talapia Terbang & Kaklong Rock Kitchen, featuring traditional Malay dishes and an open-air setting).

Wednesday, January 1, 2025

Eye Care Product: Simple Water Boost Hydrating Eye Gel

Outer cardboard slim packaging with a light blue and white color theme for an eye gel.
Taking care of your eyes isn’t just important; it’s essential. Eye care has no age limit - it’s never too early or too late to start (SIMPLE ANTI-AGING TIPS). Whether you’re a teenager or an adult, paying attention to the delicate skin around your eyes can make a difference. When it comes to eye care products, you’ll typically choose between an eye cream or an eye gel. Personally, I’ve grown to favor eye gels over the years.

Stir-Fried Winged Beans: Kacang Botol Goreng Belacan

Winged beans - also known as four-angled beans, four-winged beans, or kacang botol in Bahasa Malaysia, are a popular vegetable in Malaysian ...