Thursday, January 19, 2023

Shimla - Capturing Nature's Love

Waking up (UTTAR PRADESH), oh-my! I realize that I am in Shimla. Shimla is like a love name for me, just like how I felt when I was in Jaipur and also Agra. Shimla, nestled in the serene hills of Himachal Pradesh, holds significant historical importance as the former summer capital of British India. Established in the early 19th century, it served as a pivotal center of colonial administration and cultural exchange, reflecting the grandeur of Victorian architecture and British influence. Today, Shimla stands as a testament to its storied past, attracting visitors with its cool climate, panoramic vistas of the Himalayas, and a blend of colonial charm with vibrant local culture. Its enduring appeal lies not only in its historical significance but also in its role as a picturesque retreat (SURAKARTA HEARTBEAT & BOROBUDUR ETERNAL LEGEND). 

Thursday, December 29, 2022

Uttar Pradesh & Haryana: Sacred Legends of North India

Back to India (NEW DELHI & JAIPUR ), this time to explore Shimla and Chandigarh. On another solo trip, I joined a tour group with a mix of familiar faces (CHENNAI & MADURAI )and new acquaintances for a 7-day, 6-night adventure. The journey began in New Delhi, where I finally hit the bed in my room past 1 AM. By 8:30 AM the next morning, we were on our way to Shimla, embarking on an almost 10-hour road journey. Leaving New Delhi on a busy Saturday, we faced peak weekend traffic, taking at least an hour to get onto the roads leading to Shimla (HOKKAIDO WANDERLUST & GALLE SPOTS).

About two and a half hours later, we stopped for a comfort break at Mama Yadav, Shiva Dhaba in Babugarh, Uttar Pradesh, which was bustling with people. After a quick visit to the loo, I opted for a fresh, hot tea in a clay cup instead of sitting down to eat. The experience of watching the tea being poured into the clay pot made me grin, and the taste was delightful, transporting me to an ancient time

Monday, December 12, 2022

Portuguese Devil/Debil Curry: Bold Punch of Eurasian Spice

Devils are in play and in power when it comes to Portuguese Devil or Debil Curry (EURASIAN PINEAPPLE SALTED FISH CURRY). Why the name? Well, let’s just say the truth is stranger than fiction. As someone who’s often labeled a “devil” by the more religiously inclined Indian women, I’ve earned that nickname for being lively, outspoken, and keeping things spicy in my 60s - unlike those who spend their days praying, banging their heads on the temple floor, and chanting mantras. I’m definitely not in that “holier-than-thou” crowd. So, maybe the curry is named after me, the Devil Ms. Nava! Weeeeeee!

But if you’re genuinely curious about why it’s called Devil or Debil Curry, I think it’s all about the fiery spices and bold ingredients that give it its kick (PADA SALTED FISH PICKLE). The flavor profile is nothing short of explosive, and the vibrant red hue might just be the devil's favorite color - hot, bold, and totally eye-catching. Over the years, I’ve whipped up various versions of Portuguese Devil Curry - prawn, mutton, chicken - and now, I’m bringing you my latest creation: a vegetarian version. Has anyone else tried a veggie Devil Curry? Who cares! I didn’t bother to check. Real recipe creators don’t snoop on others’ recipes.

Monday, September 26, 2022

Easy and Healthy Drumstick and Egg Curry Recipe

This super easy and healthy drumstick and egg curry showcases pantry-friendly ingredients that make cooking a breeze. Packed with nutrition from drumsticks (or moringa sticks), eggs, yogurt, and spices, this dish is as wholesome as it is delicious. The next time you spot a moringa tree, don't hesitate to ask for the drumsticks - though they may not always be freely given! If not, buying them is your next best option, although fresh drumsticks can sometimes be pricey.

 

This Drumstick and Egg Curry is a delightful revelation, as curries are always a favorite and inherently

Tuesday, August 23, 2022

Sun-Dried Mango Curry: Healthiness & Deliciousness

It's been ages since I used sun-dried mangoes in my cooking. Growing up, my mum often used these tangy delights in various dishes. Sometimes she soaked them to soften, then lightly fried them to serve with rice (LEMONGRASS RICE) and other side dishes. The sour notes always brought immense joy to my palate. Whenever mum cooked dishes with sun-dried mangoes, I was in food heaven.

Sun-dried mangoes had slipped from my memory until I recently spotted them at the Indian grocer. Affordable and full of flavor, these mangoes need to be soaked in water to soften before cooking. They add delightful sour notes to dishes, especially traditional curries with potatoes. The combination of sourness, spiciness from the spices, tender potatoes, the aroma of asafoetida powder, and a drizzle of gingerly oil creates an indescribable taste sensation.

Monday, August 1, 2022

Lemongrass Rice (Nasi Serai): 3 Citrus-Fresh Dishes

I have a whole list of things to share with all of you about lemongrass, or as we call it in our local language, serai. The most important thing is that I grow them right here in Nava’s Zen. In fact, I have a few bunches growing now, as I use lemongrass quite regularly in my cooking. One of the simplest things I do is make lemongrass rice (AROMATIC CUMIN RICE), also known as Nasi Serai (BALINESE FISH SAMBAL) amongst us Malaysians. I have three different recipes to share with you. And oh, before I forget (VEGETARIAN POTATO SAMBAL), I also grow Thai betel leaves and papaya trees as part of Nava’s Zen urban gardening.

Friday, July 15, 2022

Balinese Fish Sambal & Ikan Masak Merah

Back in 2009, I had the pleasure of spending six unforgettable days in Bali. This island, with its rich culture and history, left me spellbound. Years later, when I returned to Indonesia (YOGYAKARTA THE KICKOFF & SURAKARTA HEARTBEAT), my passion for Indonesian cuisine led me to savor a variety of dishes to my heart’s content. While Indonesian cuisine share some similarities with Malaysian Malay cuisine, particularly in the use of sambal - a fiery blend of fresh or red chilies, shallots, garlic, ginger, and tangy tamarind or lime juice - Indonesian sambal has its own unique charm. My sambal recipe also includes terasi (belacan) for an extra layer of depth.

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’...