Thursday, February 22, 2024

Eco-Friendly Delights on Banana Leaves: Nava's Zen Culinary Harmony

I feature my culinary creations on banana leaves, courtesy of the cultivated banana trees in Nava's Zen (Cultivating Sustainable Living). The advantages are diverse:

Eco-Friendly: Biodegradable and sustainable, reducing the need for disposable plates and supporting environmental conservation.


Antimicrobial Properties: Natural compounds in banana leaves may inhibit harmful bacteria when in contact with food.


Enhanced Flavor: The waxy coating imparts a delightful flavor, elevating the overall dining experience.

Tuesday, February 20, 2024

Bharat Spice: Indian Cuisine Flavors and Experiences in Kota Kemuning

Yet another Sunday dedicated to our food explorations, and this time, we stayed local in Kota Kemuning (
Asian Fusion Seafood & Kalyana Virunthu Cafe). Our destination was the recently opened "Bharat Spice," a fresh addition that has taken over the space formerly known as Saffron Spice. Surprisingly, not much has changed - the ambiance retains its familiar feel, and even the menu seems to be a recycled version of the one from Saffron Spice. 

Sunday, February 18, 2024

Turmeric Eggs: A Holistic Culinary Wellness

Turmeric, a vibrant yellow spice widely embraced in Indian culinary traditions, has earned acclaim for its diverse health benefits, primarily attributed to its active compound, curcumin. Within its myriad advantages, the aspect that resonates profoundly with me is its robust antioxidant capabilities - an all-encompassing tonic for the breath, body, mind, and soul. Beyond its culinary significance, powdered turmeric stands as an indispensable element in Indian kitchens, diligently procured and stored for its versatile applications (Turmeric Black Cumin Rice). 

In the realm of cooking, reaching for turmeric powder has become second nature - not just for its rich flavor but also for its remarkable ability to neutralize odors, particularly from poultry and meat (Mutton Bone Marrow Curry). It has undeniably become a culinary staple (Spinach Turmeric Stir Fry).

Saturday, February 17, 2024

Unexpected at 58: Senior Entrepreneurship Revealed Through Yoga Discovery

I discovered yoga during a challenging phase marked by a relapse of menopausal symptoms. This turmoil affected my breath, body, mind, and soul, leading a doctor to recommend yoga as a remedy. Yes, you read it right - recommended by a doctor. Despite initial skepticism and minimal exposure to yoga, I decided to give it a try. Initially, my understanding was clouded by instructors overly emphasizing advanced poses and singling me out as a beginner.

Friday, February 16, 2024

Medication or Holistic Wellness Yoga: My Menopausal Journey

Experiencing a resurgence of menopausal symptoms at 53, following an initial bout at 50, took a toll on my well-being. Seeking answers at the medical center due to issues like body pain, insomnia, and overall health concerns, I found myself overwhelmed and in tears. The fear of a serious health problem added to the emotional strain, also, emotional feelings (Mental Well-Being) which I believe I have been bottling up, causing me to work my mind harder, making this relapse more severe than the first.

Thursday, February 15, 2024

Yam Pla Krapong/Thai Spicy Canned Fish Salad

Embarking on a culinary adventure infused with the essence of Nava's Zen elevates my passion for cooking to new heights. The joy derived from working with organic ingredients, meticulously sourced from the vibrant tapestry of Nava's Zen, is unparalleled. Crafting Yam Pla Krapong/Thai Style Spicy Canned Fish Salad, I proudly declare that 70% of the ingredients are not just any herbs – they are carefully nurtured organic herbs from my very own garden. This culinary endeavor transcends a mere exercise in flavor; it's a soulful experience seamlessly integrated into my therapeutic gardening routine. Cultivating these herbs becomes a mindful practice, nurturing not just the body but also the mind and soul.

Wednesday, February 14, 2024

Gongura/Roselle Recipes: A Nutritional Powerhouse in Culinary Delights

Gongura, also known as roselle or sorrel, stands out as a nutritional powerhouse, offering a spectrum of health benefits that cater to various aspects of well-being. Renowned for its digestive properties, gongura aids in maintaining a healthy digestive system, promoting optimal gut function.

Moreover, this versatile plant contributes to heart health, assisting in managing cholesterol levels and supporting overall cardiovascular well-being. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it a valuable addition for those seeking natural ways to alleviate inflammation within the body.

Tuesday, February 13, 2024

Senior Entrepreneur Ms. Nava's Holistic Journey

Starting a business is like stepping into a world where people are ready to help, showing how kind they can be. Kindness is free, but let's be clear. Hearing from those who began their business from scratch, funding it themselves, gives you real insight.

I'm Ms. Nava, your "Senior Entrepreneur," and I started all this at 58. I prefer calling my hair color "light brown" instead of gray. Over the past two years, I've smoothly navigated the ups and downs of entrepreneurship.

Sunday, February 11, 2024

Mandarin Orange Recipes: Reviving Leftover Sustainable Eats

The festival season and our current Chinese New Year, marked by communal meals and expressions of love, often leave us with delightful leftovers. Even the fruits, integral to these celebrations, like mandarin oranges and others, may find their way into the surplus. So, what do you do with these remnants?

Before delving into creative recipes, let's take a moment to consider those around the world who may not have enough to eat. This reminder prompts us to embrace sustainable living, a crucial aspect of sustainable development. As a first step, consider freezing or storing both the leftover dishes and fruits, as I'm about to guide you through some fantastic recipes to make the most of them.

Mochakottai Karuvadu Kulumbu (Field Beans Salted Fish Curry)

As I peer into the earthen pot , brimming with the flavorful Mochakottai Karuvadu Kulumbu, my appetite awakens. I must admit, I hav...