Monday, June 19, 2023

Nava's Masala Crab & Nandu Rasam Tips

(Updated Version)
Let’s be real - when you’re craving crab, it’s not just dinner; it’s a full-on event. At home, it’s a rare but glorious treat, and nothing hits the spot quite like a spicy crab dish. Trust me, I’ve whipped up a bunch of different crab recipes, but today, it’s all about Ms. Nava’s Masala Crab. Here’s the thing - eating crab at home versus a restaurant is like night and day. At home, you can go all out, cracking those claws with gusto, maybe even throw a leg up on the chair for good measure. It’s pure, unfiltered crab joy. In restaurants, though? You’re stuck minding your manners and trying not to embarrass yourself, even if you’re at a casual coffee shop. Where’s the fun in that?

Thursday, June 15, 2023

Exploring the Versatility of Brazilian Spinach: A Hidden Gem in the Culinary World

Discovering new ingredients is always an exciting journey, and my encounter with Brazilian spinach, about four years ago, was nothing short of a delightful surprise. Prior to that, I had never even heard of this leafy green vegetable. Its origin remained a mystery, intriguing me to delve deeper into its background. Today, I not only grow Brazilian spinach myself, but also relish its diverse culinary applications. Join me as we explore this fascinating ingredient and its simple yet flavorsome Malaysian-style stir-fry recipe.

Monday, June 12, 2023

Growing and Cooking with Butterfly Blue Pea Flowers


The Butterfly Blue Pea flower, also known as Bunga Telang, is incredibly easy to grow. Just scatter the seeds on the ground or in pots, and they’ll sprout with little effort. The seeds come in pods, and there are plenty of them. I'm growing them along the fence in my fitness area, Nava’s Zen, and they thrive even without much attention

If you're an urban gardener like me, you should definitely consider these beautiful flowers. They bloom in stunning shades of purple or dark blue. No fertilizer is needed; just water them. Plus, these flowers are packed with antioxidants and offer various health benefits, such as aiding in weight loss, improving blood sugar control, and enhancing hair and skin health.

 

The Butterfly Blue Pea flower is versatile and has very few side effects, making it a great addition to your diet. However, it's important to enjoy it in moderation and check for any potential side effects, as what's good for one person might not work for another.

He Ju Kopitiam: A Culinary Adventure Through a Food Critic's Lens

We decided to check out a kopitiam, which has become quite popular lately. It seems that just using the word "kopitiam" in a restaurant's name attracts customers for different reasons. Kopitiams can be simple coffee shops serving Malaysian food or fancier places with nice decorations and air conditioning. The fancier ones may be a bit pricier, but they attract people with their tasty food and cozy atmosphere. The one we went to was somewhere in the middle, offering a variety of delicious dishes from both Malaysia and other countries on their menu.

Thursday, June 8, 2023

Lemongrass/Serai: Benefits and Lemongrass Tea/Cordial

(Updated Version)
Lemongrass has a soothing, fresh, and clean fragrance that combines bright citrus notes with subtle herbal undertones. The aroma (EASY TIPS FOR GROWING SPRING ONIONS) is a delicate balance of lemony zest with earthy sweetness, enriched by a hint of green freshness. It’s an invigorating scent that not only calms the mind but also rejuvenates the spirit, making it one of my favorite fragrances. At Nava’s Zen, lemongrass is an essential part of our wellness practices, offering both aromatherapy benefits and culinary versatility (LEMONGRASS RICE).

Wednesday, June 7, 2023

Zesty Malay Okra Salad: A Veggie Delight

Okra, known locally as "bendi" in Malay and sometimes referred to as lady’s finger, is a versatile ingredient in Malaysian cuisine. It’s often used in curries and stir-fries, which are popular dishes here. However, Ms. Nava not only grows okra but also highlights it in traditional Malay recipes (TOFU RENDANG). Growing okra can be a challenge, especially during heavy rains when the plants don’t survive, requiring her to regrow them. She leaves a couple of okras on the plant to dry naturally, later harvesting the seeds for replanting.

Now, let's talk about Malay Okra Salad, or Kerabu Bendi. One key ingredient is kerisik, which is grated coconut that's dry-fried or pan-fried and then pounded. Sometimes, I make it from scratch, but for convenience, I also buy it. I’ve also created Turmeric Kerisik (NASI KUNYIT/TURMERIC RICE), where turmeric powder is added while frying the coconut, and it can be sprinkled over salads or used in stir-fries.

Tuesday, June 6, 2023

Restoran Top 1 Kopitiam: Malaysia's Vibrant Street Food Scene

As an avid food lover, I may not claim to be the world's top foodie, but I've had my fair share of dining experiences both within and outside my country. While traveling abroad, I've had the pleasure of indulging in various cuisines. I must confess, I'm not a picky eater and can enjoy a meal anywhere without following strict food rules. 

Unlike some self-proclaimed foodies, I embrace all sorts of culinary delights, except for beef due to my religious beliefs rooted in Hinduism. Although I cook regularly at home, I often take a break to explore the realm of dining out. Lately, I've found myself drawn to the fascinating world of street food, which offers a delightful array of flavors right here in Malaysia.

Zen Blooming: Ylang-Ylang's Therapeutic Delights

Ylang-Ylang, a cherished part of Nava's Zen, is a natural essence that perfectly aligns with our zen yoga-fitness-oriented nature therapy. As the gardener (Cultivating Convenient Gardening) I, Ms Nava, made sure to include this plant in my garden from the very beginning. Over time, it has grown to a substantial height, but I carefully trim it to maintain its size. 

The delightful aspect of ylang-ylang lies in its vibrant yellow flowers and their captivating scent. To enhance this aromatic experience, I even place some of the flowers in our rainwater barrel, where they gracefully float and infuse the water with their enchanting fragrance.

Friday, June 2, 2023

Personalized Diet Plans: Your Unique Weight Loss Journey

Losing weight and achieving your desired shape and size is a personal journey that requires careful consideration of various factors. While someone else's diet plan may have worked wonders for them, it's crucial to understand that one size does not fit all. We are unique individuals with different lifestyles, ages, professions, likes, and dislikes. This article aims to shed light on the importance of customized diet plans and the positive impact they can have on your weight loss journey.

Embrace Your Individuality

Every person's body is different, and what works for someone else may not necessarily work for you. It's essential to recognize and appreciate your individuality when it comes to your diet and weight loss goals. Your lifestyle, preferences, and specific needs should all be taken into account.

Wednesday, May 31, 2023

Gardening Tips for Beginners

Gardener on ladder in Nava’s Zen garden
(Updated Version)

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.

Nutrient-rich soil for gardening

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.

Essential gardening tools for beginners

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.

Gardener’s credentials and expertise

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.

Applying fertilizer to garden plants
(Ms. Nava is a dynamic individual in her 60s, leading yoga sessions at Nava's Zen while also embracing her passion for gardening through Zen Blooming. With credentials in gardening and extensive experience, she cultivates a serene environment that reflects her commitment to Zen, inspiring others to find balance and tranquility in their lives). 

 


Sunday, May 28, 2023

Basic Skincare Tips: Glowing Healthy Skin

Inner peace and confidence contribute to a glowing complexion
Let’s be real - skin care starts with taking a good look at the skin on your face. Forget the layers of makeup and skincare for a moment. What’s beneath? The bare skin in the mirror reflects how you care for yourself. Let’s talk basic skincare tips to help that face of yours glow with freshness, vitality, and confidence.

Hands Off, Please.

First things first - always wash your hands before touching your face. If you don’t, you’re transferring dirt, oils, and germs right onto your skin. No wonder it feels dull, lifeless, or even breaks out. Clean hands = clean skin. Simple, but vital.

Friday, May 26, 2023

Pineapple Salted Fish Curry & Pineapple Recipe

I’m the ultimate foodie - always on the hunt for new flavors and never one to shy away from a culinary adventure (SZECHUAN LONG BEANS). From five-star restaurants to roadside stalls, you’ll find me indulging in just about anything. There's no "mudguard" mentality here; I'll eat wherever and whatever catches my fancy. But there’s a downside to this passion: the people in my life are fussy eaters with endless restrictions. “I don’t like this, “I can’t eat that,” and “Street food? No way!” - you get the idea.

Eating out with them is like replaying the same old song at the same eateries, ordering the same dishes. It’s become so monotonous that I’ve resorted to dining solo. Even my husband, bless him, has a laundry list of limitations - except when it comes to Indian food. Put a plate of curries in front of him, and he’s all smiles. It took me years to expand his culinary horizons (TOM YAM FISH), and while he’s gotten better, he’s still pretty reluctant to try new things. The funniest part? These folks won’t even try something before deciding they don’t like it. Funny, right?

Wednesday, May 24, 2023

Blossoming Passion: A Journey of Gardening, Learning, and Perseverance

Step into the tranquil beginnings of my journey in Kota Kemuning two decades ago, where amidst the calm, a yearning for vitality stirred. With my spouse often away, I craved solace and purpose. Balancing academia and domesticity, the idea of crafting a blog and delving into culinary ventures beckoned.

 

Yet, it was the sight of the barren plot outside my home that ignited an insatiable desire for lush greenery. Having only dabbled in indoor plants before, the notion of gardening felt foreign. However, the vast potential of this newfound space sparked an intense passion within me.

Saturday, May 20, 2023

Versatile Long Beans: Szechuan, Basic, & Egg Stir-Fry

A couple of years ago, I grew long beans, but unfortunately, their lifespan is only about 4 months, so you need to replant them to continue harvesting. I didn't get around to replanting them back then, but now I've started growing them again. The plants are slowly coming up, and I'm hopeful for a good harvest for my cooking. In the meantime, I buy them, and they are quite affordable (VEGETARIAN TOFU RENDANG). Long beans are a favorite in my household.

I cook them in Indian style (VEGETARIAN DEVIL/DEBEL CURRY), but for a quick Chinese-style dish, stir-frying is the way to go. This recipe is quite simple, and as someone who cooks Chinese dishes regularly, I always keep peanut oil, sesame oil, and soy sauce on hand. Szechuan peppercorns, available at Chinese grocers, also last a long time and should be stored in the fridge.

Saturday, May 13, 2023

Malaysian Wildboar Curry/Kattu Pandi Kulambu

(Updated Version)

It’s always amusing, or maybe just expected, that among a group of ten Indians, only one or two might indulge in pork. It doesn’t exactly ruffle my feathers, but dining out with them can be quite the adventure, as they tend to steer clear of any place serving pork dishes. This tendency is especially strong among the older crowd, although the younger generation is more open to pork.

 

Interestingly, those who shy away from pork (CHINESE PORK CHOPS RECIPES) often have a hard time explaining why. Some claim it's because pork is “unclean,” others cite religious reasons, and many just stick to what their parents did, continuing a long-standing tradition. Indians generally prefer the familiar over the exotic, which is a bit of a contrast to my own adventurous palate. Dining out with them often involves a careful check of their preferences and, amusingly, a lot of fuss over trivial matters, even though they brag about dining at Jamie Oliver’s or Gordon Ramsay’s spots. Oh, the irony.

Crispy Fried Prawns Recipes: Oats & Cereal Coated

(Updated Version) Cooking prawns is a fun adventure, and with Zen Cuisine, it’s all about creativity ( CHINESE PRAWN RECIPES ). Today, I...