Determined to make the most of my remaining time, we made several stops along the route from Galle to Colombo. We visited two different beaches, likely between Unawatuna Beach, Hikkaduwa Beach, Bentota Beach, Beruwala Beach, and Mount Lavinia Beach. Each beach had stunning, mesmerizing waters that left me in awe. The beauty of these beaches was truly mind-blowing.
Tuesday, January 15, 2019
Colombo - Sri Lanka: From Dreams to Discovery
Sunday, January 13, 2019
Galle - Sri Lanka: Exploring Famed Sightseeing Spots
Our day started at the Okrin Hotel in Kataragama with a breakfast that truly awakened my senses. The buffet offered two choices: Western or Sri Lankan. While my four companions went for the Western option, I opted for the Sri Lankan breakfast. Despite a brief 20-minute wait, the meal that awaited me was well worth it. The flavors of Rice Cakes, Coconut Sambol and Fish Curry were so captivating that even those who had chosen the Western breakfast couldn’t resist sneaking a bite from my plate. I felt deeply grateful for this mouthwatering experience as we prepared to leave Kataragama and head towards Galle (KATARAGAMA & KANDY).
Friday, January 11, 2019
Kataragama - Sri Lanka: Sacred Trails and Serene Adventures
Tuesday, January 8, 2019
Nuwara Eliya - Sri Lanka: Hillside One Day Retreat
Saturday, January 5, 2019
Kandy (Rambukkana/Mawanella/Kandy) - Sri Lanka
Wednesday, January 2, 2019
Negambo - Sri Lanka: A Serene Escape Amidst Traditional Fishing Life
Our first stop was lunch at St. Lachan Hotel, set in a beautiful garden. We were greeted with 'ayubowan,' a Sinhalese greeting similar to Namaste. As we nibbled on crispy snacks and got acquainted, we waited for our food. The 20-minute wait was worth it as we enjoyed an amazing meal, especially the fish curry with veggies and rice.
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
Thai Green Crab & Basil Pepper Crab: Bold Thai Flavors
Let's rewind to what I mentioned earlier about Indian Crab Soup, also known as Nandu Rasam or Crab Rasam. This time, I took a break from the typical Indian-style curried crab dishes and ventured into something different - Thai-style crab. Cooking Thai dishes isn’t new for me (THAI VEGETARIAN EGGPLANT), and here we have Thai Green Curry Crab! It’s not the usual saucy, thick gravy kind of curry. Instead, it’s a dry-style dish, bursting with the quintessential Thai flavors and infused with the aroma of Thai basil leaves.
Monday, November 23, 2015
Easy Banana Blossom/Flower Recipes: Stir Fry and Curry
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.
The Best Pickled Fish/Fish Pickle Recipe
(Updated Version) At first glance, the list of ingredients may seem intimidating, but let Ms. Nava assure you: take a closer look, and you’...
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(Updated Version) Ever heard of a golden-hued coconut milk stew? For the Indian community in Malaysia, it's known as sodhi, a creamy, co...
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(Updated Version) Ever wondered how many urban dwellers are secretly urban gardeners? Well, I’m proud to say I’m one of them. In our lit...
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(Updated Version) As I reflect on my cooking routine ( SOUTH INDIAN STYLE FISH CURRY ), one dish stands out time and again - Salted Fish ...