Tuesday, December 13, 2016

Golden Prawns: Oats-Coated & Cereal-Egg Toss

(Updated Version)

There are countless ways to cook a prawn dish, and of course, I’m one of those people who just has to experiment. Why? Because my love for Zen Cuisine is so deep, and well, I’m just that adventurous when it comes to food. Variety is the spice of life, right? Cooking, after all, is not just about food—it’s about keeping the mind and soul sharp. You know, keeping the gears turning so the ol' brain doesn't wither away and slip into the dangerous zone of mind contentment. Because we all know what happens then - boredom sets in, and suddenly, the devil's workshop is open for business. Gossip, backstabbing, and rumor-mongering, anyone?


So, next time someone’s talking behind your back, just remember - it’s not their fault. Their mind isn’t working properly. Misery loves company, and a poorly functioning mind just loves to drag others down.

But don’t worry - you can stay on the right side of things. Be part of Ms. Nava’s Zen Cuisine! Challenge yourself to try new recipes, mix and match ingredients, and get creative with what’s in your pantry. Got some oats and cereal? Perfect. 

Sunday, August 28, 2016

Bread Pizza: Fusion Tuna Spicy Version

I've never made pizza dough in my life, and frankly, I don't see the need to learn. We're not big pizza fans at home - it’s more of an occasional treat that we usually grab from a pizzeria for convenience. With so many varieties and toppings available, it's easier to buy than to make from scratch. But with some bread slices nearing their expiration, I decided to whip up these bread pizzas instead. My zen garden is overflowing with daun kaduk, also known as Thai betel leaves, which are a nutritional powerhouse in cooking.

These leaves are packed with antioxidants, anti-inflammatory benefits, and support digestive health, making them a great addition to any dish. Thai betel leaves are easy to grow - maybe it’s time you considered adding them to your garden?

Monday, July 4, 2016

Black Pepper Crab & Green Curry Crab: Thai-Style Recipes

(Updated Version)

I’m stepping away from the usual curried crab and exploring something different - Thai-style crab. While cooking Thai dishes isn’t new to me (check out my Thai Vegetarian Eggplant), this time it’s Black Pepper Crab, Thai Style, and Green Curry Crab, Thai Style. The one ingredient that makes a world of difference in both dishes is Thai Basil, which you can grow effortlessly. The aroma of this famous herb is invigorating and adds a delightful depth to both dishes. 


The Black Pepper Crab offers a bold, savory flavor with tender crab meat coated in a fragrant, spicy black pepper sauce. Likewise, the aroma of Thai basil enhances the thick green curry, elevating the dish and the tender crab to new heights.

Monday, November 23, 2015

Easy Banana Blossom/Flower Recipes: Stir Fry and Curry

(Updated Version)

Banana blossom, or banana flower, which is the flower from the banana tree, makes its appearance on the banana trees grown in Nava's Zen. This nutritional Zen is often overlooked. While popular in traditional home kitchens, especially among Indians, it’s rarely seen in modern recipes or restaurants. In fact, during my trips to India, I surprisingly didn’t find any banana blossom dishes in eateries. Perhaps it’s due to the meticulous cleaning process, which I've shared in this Zen cuisine.

 

Despite its known Zen benefits, this superfood is slowly fading from our diets, replaced by processed options and supplements. Easy to prepare and delicious in stir-fries and curries, banana blossom allows us to enjoy wholesome flavors while reaping its many health benefits.

Monday, January 27, 2014

Oatmeal Raisin Cookies: A Delicious Classic

As my break was winding down, I felt a strong urge to bake one last batch of cookies. This time, I chose Oatmeal Raisin Cookies - a classic and comforting treat. The recipe promised simplicity, unlike my previous adventures with more complex cookies (BISKUT SEMPERIT/KUIH DAHLIA/CUSTART COOKIES).

But as I started baking, I faced a challenge with sticky dough that refused to shape properly. In a moment of creativity, I added extra oats and a little flour to salvage the mixture.

Tuesday, January 7, 2014

Easy Fish Head Curry - Malaysian Style

(Updated Version)

If you enjoy fish head curry, you’re in good company! Today, I’m sharing an easy recipe (SRI LANKAN FISH CURRY) for Malaysian-style fish head curry. For natural sourness, I’ve chosen belimbing buluh, a small variety of starfruit, though tamarind juice or tomatoes work well too—just remember to taste as you go, since tomato acidity can vary. While the ingredient list may seem a bit extensive (EASY SOUTH INDIAN FISH CURRIES), all items are readily available at grocery stores, markets, or hypermarkets. This simple recipe delivers the beloved spiciness, tangy notes, and creamy coconut richness, enhanced by aromatic spices and a perfectly tender fish head.

Mee Siam Recipe Singapore

(Updated Version) Mee Siam, the Singaporean version - though I must confess, I’ve never actually been to Singapore ( SINGAPORE LAKSA ). D...