Thursday, June 8, 2023
Lemongrass/Serai: Benefits and Lemongrass Tea/Cordial
Wednesday, June 7, 2023
Best Vegetarian Okra Salad - Malay Style
No-Cook Vegetarian Okra Salad, or Kerabu Bendi as it's known among the Malaysian Malay community. Isn’t it amazing that even okra can shine in a no-cook salad? By the way, kerabu needs no introduction - I’ve previously shared Kerabu Taugeh/Bean Sprout Salad and Kerabu Mangga/Mango Salad) (KERABU TAUGEH/BEAN SPROUT SALAD).
Tuesday, June 6, 2023
Restoran Top 1 Kopitiam: Malaysia's Vibrant Street Food Scene
Wednesday, May 31, 2023
Gardening Tips for Beginners
Not sure how to start or where to begin your gardening journey? Don’t worry! With over 20 years of experience, I’m here to guide you step by step. Gardening doesn’t have to be overwhelming - it’s all about keeping it simple and fun. In this article, we’ll focus on gardening on the ground, leaving aside container gardening for the time being. Let’s dig in.
Where to Plant
Start by identifying a plot of land within your compound. Even a small area,
like the patch of land near your gate, can work wonders. Consider how much
space you have and choose a location that gets enough sunlight. Accessibility
for watering and maintenance is key - ensure it’s easy to reach and work with.
Cleaning Up
Before planting, clear the area thoroughly. Remove weeds, rocks, and debris
from both the surface and below the soil. A clean foundation is essential for
healthier plants and makes planting easier. Remember, the larger the plot, the
more time it will take to prepare, so start small if you’re a beginner.
Soil Matters
Examine the soil type in your chosen area. In Malaysia, clay soil is common but
tends to harden quickly, especially in hot weather. If the soil is too hard,
water won’t penetrate deeply, which can hinder plant growth. Consider enhancing
the soil by mixing in black soil or compost. Black soil not only improves
moisture retention but also adds an attractive contrast when paired with lush
green plants.
Essential Tools
Equip yourself with the basics:
A hand trowel
for planting and digging.
Pruning shears
for trimming plants.
Garden gloves
for protection and comfort.
A watering can
for precise watering.
Start with these essentials and expand your toolkit as needed. For example, a
small shovel and soil moisture meter can be helpful once you’re more
experienced.
Protection and Safety
Always wear gardening gloves - they protect your hands from dirt, thorns, and
insects. Consider gardening boots if you’re working on uneven or rocky ground.
If you’re out in the sun for long hours, a wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen are
must-haves for your safety.
What to Plant
Choose plants suited to your climate and environment. As a beginner, focus on
low-maintenance options. Those grow easily and
are satisfying to nurture. Avoid ambitious choices to start; small
successes will build your confidence as you grow your green thumb.
Learning Along
the Way
Gardening is an ongoing learning experience. Read books, explore online
resources, or join free gardening workshops if available. Don’t hesitate to ask
for advice at local nurseries - most staff are happy to share tips. Every plant
you grow teaches you something new, making the journey all the more rewarding.
Dedication and Passion
Gardening requires time, effort, and a love for the process. Be prepared to get
sweaty and dirty - it’s part of the experience. Dedication and passion will help
you enjoy the challenges and rewards that come with nurturing your own green
haven.
Happy gardening. In the next article, we will dwell into other matters on gardening.
Friday, May 26, 2023
Pineapple Salted Fish Curry Recipe
Saturday, May 20, 2023
Long Beans Stir Fry Recipes - Chinese Style
The versatile and affordable long beans can be transformed into various dishes - ranging from stir fries to soups or curries. However, nothing beats the simplicity of cooking long beans as a stir-fried dish. Trust me, a long bean stir fry as a pure vegetarian option is absolutely delightful (CHINESE CHILLI CASHEW VEGGIE STIR FRY VEGETARIAN)
Whether you prefer them cooked to a crunchy texture or soft bites, it works beautifully. Especially when stir-fried with common kitchen staples, these effortless, quick dishes are a winner. Ready to dive into the recipes? Not just one, but three easy and delicious options for you (PICKLED RED CABBAGE VEGETARIAN).
Saturday, May 13, 2023
Malaysian Wildboar Curry/Kattu Pandi Kulambu
Wednesday, May 10, 2023
Pickled Red Cabbage Recipe
Thursday, April 20, 2023
Tom Yum Fish Recipe
Have you tried a tom yum fish dish before? No, I’m not referring to steamed tom yum or any other variations that may come to mind. I’m introducing a tom yum fish dish, where fried fish pieces are coated in a thick, homemade tom yum paste. Does it sound familiar or intriguing, but you’re not sure if you should try it?
Trust me, it’s all good to go. It’s a unique and outstanding dish that may not be common, but there’s always a first time - and it might not be the last (BALINESE FISH SAMBAL RECIPE).
Tuesday, March 7, 2023
Chandigarh, North India - Urban Serenity & Marvels
From Kullu Manali (KULLU MANALI MAJESTY) to Chandigarh. India's first planned city, Chandigarh stands as a testament to modern urban design and efficiency. Renowned for its well-organized sectors, lush greenery, and wide avenues, Chandigarh blends functionality with aesthetic charm. Designed by Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier in the 1950s, the city boasts clean, tree-lined streets, serene parks, and distinctive architecture. Chandigarh serves as the capital of both Punjab and Haryana states, fostering a vibrant cultural scene alongside its administrative importance. As a model of sustainable urban living (HOKKAIDO WINTER TIME), Chandigarh continues to offer a tranquil yet dynamic environment (SURAKARTA HEARTBEAT & BOROBUDUR ETERNAL LEGEND).
During the six-hour journey, we encountered unexpected challenges. Several tour members fell ill with stomach upset, vomiting, nausea, and fever. Despite their boasts of extensive travel experience across India, they were unprepared for the winding mountain roads, plus, I reckon it’s the effects of late-night meals followed by over-eating again at breakfast buffet. This lack of foresight led to unscheduled stops for fresh air and medical assistance, disrupting the journey. Some had to visit the doctor while others waited on the coach.
Monday, February 13, 2023
Kullu Manali - Experiencing Himalayan Majesty
Next on our itinerary was Kullu Manali (SHIMLA ESSENCE OF HIMALAYSAN GEM). After a comfort break and lunch, we arrived at the Westin Hotel and Resort in Manali past 10 PM. Declining the late dinner, I headed straight to my room and was impressed by its cleanliness and comfort. A refreshing shower marked the end of my day before bedtime. The buffet breakfast the next morning wasn’t remarkable but provided the necessary fuel for our activities at Rohtang Pass (HOKKAIDO WINTER LUST).
Rohtang Pass, nestled in the majestic Himalayas at an altitude of about 3,978 meters, holds significant historical (VARANASI SACRED GANGES) and geographical importance. It has served as a crucial trade route since ancient times, connecting the lush Kullu Valley to the arid Lahaul and Spiti Valleys. The name Rohtang translates to "pile of corpses" due to its challenging terrain and unpredictable weather, which historically made it a difficult passage. Today, Rohtang Pass offers breathtaking vistas of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and alpine meadows.
Friday, January 27, 2023
Shimla, North India: Essence of the Himalayan Gem
Once I dismounted from the horse (SHIMLA - CAPTURING NATURE'S LOVE), the guide shared his number for arranging the ride back down the hill. After waiting for ten minutes and seeing no sign of the rest of my tour group who had opted for the ride, I decided not to wait any longer. I paid the entrance fee and began my trek up the uneven path. As I ascended, the challenge became evident - each step tested my endurance and leg strength. Halfway through, I found myself questioning whether to push forward or turn back. Despite the struggle, I continued, passing stalls selling various local products on both sides of the path (PRETORIA MOMENTS & CAPE TOWN MAGIC).
While my interest in shopping wasn't particularly high, the allure of local bites and drinks was hard to resist. However, observing food vendors handling items without gloves in such a dusty environment gave me pause. The lack of covering for the food at these stalls added to my concern.
My walk eventually brought me to what seemed like the viewpoint (KATAGARAMA SRI LANKA) at Mahasu Peak, where I hoped to catch an overview of Kufri or even Shimla. However, the area was packed with locals who showed no signs of moving. Waiting for my turn seemed futile, especially considering the time constraint to rejoin my tour group, so I decided to return to where my guide was supposed to meet me.
After waiting for 20 minutes with no response to my calls, he finally appeared, casually taking photos as I called the horse "Darling." He corrected me, revealing the horse's name as "Raku." Oh, the innocence of it all! I thanked him profusely with a namaskar and a token before we embarked on the ride downhill.
Back in the van, we switched vehicles midway and eventually reached Jakhu Road by 4:30 pm, missing out on visiting the Shri Hanuman Mandir and Christ Church as per our itinerary. Despite this, hunger was gnawing at me after climbing steep steps, and all we could find was Cafe Under Tree. Quite a surprise! Famished, we indulged in a mix of Western and Indian vegetarian dishes - Mushroom Fried Rice, Vegetarian Biryani, and Manchurian Kofta - all delicious and reasonably priced.
Satiated, we returned to the hotel where the experience of bucket bathing added a nostalgic touch to our day. Seated on a stool, filling the bucket and using the scoop brought back memories of simpler times, reminiscent of my childhood in Jalan Chan Ah Thong Brickfields government quarters. A classic way to end my adventurous day in Shimla.
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, this time to explore Shimla and Chandigarh. On another solo trip, I joined a tour group with a mix of familiar faces, 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
Having studied the Bhagavad Gita extensively, I felt a deep connection to the profound teachings shared in this sacred place. The dialogue between Krishna and Arjuna, addressing duty, righteousness, and life's essence, resonated profoundly as I explored the temple grounds, prayed, and sat beneath the Banyan tree. Reflecting on my visit, Jyotisar Temple not only provided a spiritual experience but also prompted introspection on the principles that Hindus cherish and strive to embody.
Monday, December 12, 2022
Easy Malaysian Devil Curry Recipe
(Updated Version)
Devil Curry, also known as "Debel Curry," has Portuguese origins and is widely enjoyed in Sri Lankan, Goan, and among the Malaysian Eurasian community. This rich, fiery red curry is crafted using a blend of spices, vinegar, and soy sauce. The choice of meat can vary, with options like beef, prawns, or chicken. Over time, I have created numerous variations of Devil Curry (EASY DRUMSTICK EGG CURRY), experimenting with different ingredients and combinations, including mutton, with and without potatoes.
Monday, September 26, 2022
Easy Drumstick Egg Curry Recipe
What a combination - drumsticks (moringa fruits or murungakkai sticks) and boiled eggs. All simmered in a spicy curry that tantalizes your taste buds with every mouthful, Aha! Is drumstick egg curry one of your favorites too? Maybe I shouldn’t assume, but this dish is truly a delight to your food senses. And the best part? You don’t need a million ingredients to whip it up. Budget-friendly cooking can be just as delicious, especially with yogurt enhancing the spices and elevating the curry’s flavors. Come on, let’s cook.
Tuesday, August 23, 2022
Best Mango Curry recipe - Vegetarian
No, no, not just another mango curry with green mangoes. This one’s special - a classic, heritage mango curry made with sun-dried mangoes. Back in the day, instead of letting mangoes rot, people sliced and sun-dried them, preserving their goodness.
These sun-dried mango pieces bring a unique depth to the curry. Alongside them are potatoes, spices, curry leaves, and a drizzle of Indian sesame oil to honor the heritage of Indian cooking.
Friday, July 15, 2022
Balinese Fish Sambal & Ikan Masak Merah
Tuesday, June 14, 2022
Easy Carrot Yogurt Salad Recipes
Saturday, March 19, 2022
Shivan Panching & Sri Marathandavar Temples
Thursday, March 17, 2022
Kuantan: Coastal Wonders and Tasty Eats
Visiting Kuantan (SULTAN AHMAD SHAH MOSQUE) is incomplete without exploring its stunning beaches, known for their mesmerizing natural beauty. These beaches are a favorite among Malaysians from various regions, especially during weekends, public holidays, and school breaks. They also attract tourists from around the globe.
With the beaches already on my mind, we made our way to one of these scenic spots. I can't pinpoint the exact location, as there were no signboards, but the experience was unforgettable. The blue waters were simply breathtaking, and just gazing at them felt incredibly fulfilling (KUALA PENYU TRANQUIL NATURE & CAPE TOWN NATURAL STUNNER).
Tuesday, March 15, 2022
Sultan Ahmad Shah Mosque: An Unexpected Divine Encounter
I ended up in Kuantan. It was a spur-of-the-moment decision, just a drive with no plans whatsoever, going with the flow. Actually, it was to break free from the mundane life and welcome something new. Landing in Kuantan, I checked into Vistana Kuantan (now known as AC Hotel Kuantan). The room was lovely, with nothing to fault. Next, I made a call to meet up with two friends who fetched me from the hotel, and we took a drive around Kuantan town before I chanced upon the Sultan Ahmad Shah Mosque (Masjid Negeri, Masjid Sultan Ahmad 1).
Friday, February 11, 2022
Creamy Cucumber Yogurt Salad Recipe
Keep it uncomplicated in the kitchen, yet bold, tasty, and nutritious. Gone are the days when people spent hours cooking, except for specific occasions or individuals. For the rest of us, we want meals that are easy to put together. Wouldn’t you agree? Especially with takeaways and eating out trending. Yet, nothing comes close to the goodness of home-cooked meals.
Saturday, January 22, 2022
Best Saffron Rice - Turkish Style
Saffron strands are among the most expensive spices in the world. Their cost depends on the grading or quality and their country of origin. That said, nothing compares to the premium ones for their stronger aroma, richer flavor, and vibrant color. You only need a pinch or two for a dish like this Turkish-style saffron rice.
Friday, January 21, 2022
Kota Kinabalu, North Borneo: Unmasking Food and Business
Wednesday, January 19, 2022
Ranau, Sabah: Eco-Tourism Gems
In Kota Kinabalu, the next day after visiting Kota Belud (KOTA BELUD UNTAMED BEAUTY) I set out to view two sights. The information needed for these visits was still fluid, but it took about two hours before a decision was made to head to Ranau. This serene district, approximately two and a half hours from Kota Kinabalu, is steeped in historical and cultural significance. Established in the late 19th century, Ranau's history is deeply intertwined with the colonial era and World War II.
The Kundasang War Memorial stands as a poignant reminder of the tragic Sandakan Death Marches, honoring the thousands of Australian and British prisoners of war who perished. Culturally, Ranau is a melting pot of indigenous groups, including the Dusun and Kadazan people, whose traditions, languages, and customs enrich the region's cultural tapestry.
Monday, January 17, 2022
Kota Belud: Untamed Beauty, Sun Watching & Fireflies
Between the 1st and 3rd day, I met up with several people in Kota Kinabalu, which served as my base. What and what not, I will let you know after the finale of my so-called looking for new ventures in Sabah. On the 4th day, I decided to include some sightseeing. I arranged and paid for a drive to Kota Belud. This trip was also to explore this part of Sabah and assess its potential for future ventures, which I can't disclose more about (KUALA PENYU TRANQUIL NATURE).
The drive from Kota Kinabalu to Kota Belud takes about 1 ½ hours, and I requested stops along the way for some discoveries. We stopped at Gerai Kelapa Bakar Kak Tini (Lokan Bakar & Puding Kelapa) on Jalan Sulaman Tuaran, Kota Kinabalu. It's famous for Kelapa Bakar, where whole coconuts are roasted to perfection, resulting in tender, smoky coconut flesh and uniquely flavored coconut water. The coconuts, with their hard outer shells, are roasted over charcoal, and once done, the shells are peeled off before serving.
Saturday, January 15, 2022
Sabah: Kuala Penyu’s Tranquil Nature
A few months ago, I took a trip to Sabah with the goal of meeting new people and exploring fresh opportunities, as promised by an expert who claimed to know the area inside and out. I boarded an early morning flight to Kota Kinabalu and, driven by hunger, made a beeline for the McDonald’s at the airport. Sometimes convenience trumps local flavor when you’re starving. The place was crowded, but I managed to squeeze in and eat to my heart's content.
With my hunger addressed, I took a cab to the Hotel KK Waterfront in Warisan Square, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu. While the hotel itself was nothing remarkable - though clean - the windows provided a crucial connection to the outside world, which is essential for someone like me who prefers not to feel trapped in a room. The main draw for choosing this hotel was its prime location: directly across from the Kota Kinabalu Waterfront and surrounded by various eateries and convenience stores, making it an ideal spot for my needs.
Tuesday, December 28, 2021
Easy Cumin Rice Recipe - Indian Jeera Rice
Monday, November 8, 2021
Cape Town Indian Fish Curry & Malaysian Recipes
During an unforgettable nine-day adventure in South
Africa, I experienced moments that felt like pure magic. Cape Town, with its
dramatic landscapes and vibrant spirit, was an absolute highlight (CAPE TOWN: THE NATURE STUNNER). One evening, while soaking up the rich cultural atmosphere of a local
show, I struck up a conversation with a South African Indian lady beside me. As
we shared stories and laughter, she unveiled her treasured recipe for South
African Fish Curry (PRETORIA MOMENTS & INSIGHTS) - a dish that beautifully echoes the flavors of Indian
cuisine (EGG CURRY TRIO).
That recipe stayed with me, and years later, as I prepared fish - one of my husband’s favorite brain foods—I decided to recreate her South African Fish Curry with my own creative twists. But that's not all! I’m also excited to share another flavor-packed treasure: Malaysian Indian Fish Curry, a recipe from Ms. Nava. Join me on this culinary journey and try these delicious recipes that bridge continents and cultures.
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...

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(Updated Version) Simplicity shines in Sodhi, the Indian coconut milk stew. This much-loved dish also finds a cherished place in cuisines fr...
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(Updated Version) Rasam, a Zen nutritious Indian spiced soup, is already a powerhouse on its own ( EASY INSTANT RASAM RECIPE ). Now, im...
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(Updated Version) For an urban gardener like me, growing veggies, herbs, and fruits is incredibly fulfilling. These are for our own cons...