Stir-fried Mushrooms and Onions

Stir-frying is a quick and easy way to create a delicious meal with a variety of textures and flavors, and when it comes to stir-fries, mushrooms and onions are a classic combination. The earthy, umami-rich taste of mushrooms pairs wonderfully with the sweet, caramelized flavor of onions, making for a dish that's as tasty as it is nutritious.

Oyster mushrooms, in particular, are a fantastic choice for those looking to add an Asian flair to their meal. Not only do they have a unique texture and flavor that absorbs sauces beautifully, but they're also packed with beneficial nutrients. Oyster mushrooms are a rich source of polysaccharides, antioxidants, amino acids, polyphenols, and digestive enzymes. These components contribute to a range of health benefits, including immune system support, brain health protection, and stress reduction.

The star of the show in terms of health benefits, however, is beta-glucan. This soluble fiber, found in the cell walls of fungi like mushrooms, has been the focus of much scientific research. Studies suggest that beta-glucans can offer a wide array of health advantages, from bolstering the immune system to protecting against cognitive decline.

This stir-fried mushrooms and onions recipe is not just a treat for your taste buds but also a boon for your health. It's simple to prepare and can be served with hot cooked rice for a satisfying meal. Here's how you can make it at home:

Ingredients:

- 350 grams of oyster mushrooms

- 1 cup of sliced white onions

- 2 green onions

- 2 cloves of garlic, minced

 Sauté sauce ingredients:

- 1 tbsp oyster sauce

- 1 tbsp soy sauce

- 1 tsp sugar

- 1 tsp mushroom seasoning

- 1/4 tsp salt

- 1/8 tsp black pepper

- 2 tbsp oil for stir-frying

Directions:

1. Begin by soaking the oyster mushrooms in water mixed with 1 tbsp of all-purpose flour for 10 minutes. This helps to clean them thoroughly. After soaking, wash and drain the mushrooms well, then squeeze out as much water as possible.

2. Tear the mushrooms into small sections or slice them according to your preference.

3. Separate the white and green parts of the green onions and cut them into 2-inch sections.

4. Heat oil in a sauté pan. Once hot, add the minced garlic and the white parts of the green onions. Stir-fry for 2 minutes or until fragrant.

5. Add the mushrooms and cook for 3 minutes before adding the white onions and the prepared sauce.

6. Continue to cook for another 5 minutes, then add the green parts of the onions and mix well.

And there you have it—a simple yet flavorful stir-fried mushrooms and onions dish that's perfect for any day of the week. Enjoy the savory goodness and the health benefits that come with every bite!

Korean Braised Black Beans: A Nutritious and Delicious Side Dish

The Korean cuisine is renowned for its variety of side dishes, known as banchan, which are served alongside rice and main courses. Among these, braised black beans, or kongjaban, stand out as a nutritious and flavorful option. Not only do they offer a delightful taste, but they also provide significant health benefits.

Black beans are an excellent source of protein, making them a great addition to any meal, especially for those looking to increase their protein intake. They are also rich in essential nutrients that support hair growth and skin health. This makes braised black beans not just a treat for the palate but also a boon for your overall well-being.

The recipe for Korean braised black beans is straightforward and can be easily prepared at home. It requires a cup of dried black beans, preferably the Korean variety with green insides, which are known for their distinctive flavor and texture. The sauce for the beans is a simple yet delicious combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, mushroom seasoning, salt, minced garlic, and diced white onions. These ingredients create a savory and slightly sweet glaze that coats the beans perfectly.

For added gloss and a touch of sweetness, brown syrup or honey is incorporated towards the end of the cooking process. This not only enhances the flavor but also gives the beans an appetizing sheen.

The cooking method is adaptable; while an instant pot can significantly reduce the cooking time, the traditional stovetop method is equally effective. The key is to ensure the beans are well-cooked and have absorbed the flavors of the sauce. Once prepared, these braised black beans can be stored in the refrigerator and enjoyed over several days, making them a convenient and healthy option for busy individuals or families.

Incorporating Korean braised black beans into your diet is a delightful way to enjoy the rich flavors of the Korean cuisine while reaping the nutritional benefits. Whether as a side dish or as a snack, these beans are sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the harmony of taste and health with this easy-to-make, delicious Korean side dish.

Ingredients:

1 cup dried black beans (Korean black beans with green inside)

Sauce ingredients:

2 tbsp soy sauce

1 tbsp brown sugar

1 tsp mushroom seasoning

1/4 tsp salt

2 tsp garlic minced.

1/2 cup diced white onions.

Other ingredients:

1 tbsp brown syrup or honey.

Directions:

Wash the beans until the water is clear, and soak the dried beans overnight or for 8 hours.

I use the instant pot to cook the beans but you can use the pot to cook the beans on the stovetop for 30 minutes.

Add about 2 cups of water to the beans and place them into the instant pot. Turn to use the pressure cook for 7 minutes. Let it naturally release.

Check the beans for doneness and turn the instant pot to the broth function. Add the sauce ingredients and let cook until all the sauce is absorbed. Add the syrup at this point to make the beans shiny.

You can enjoy this side dish for several days if kept in the refrigerator.

Easy Low-Carb Tortilla Pizza: A Quick and Delicious Recipe

 Are you craving pizza but don't want to compromise your low-carb diet? Look no further! This easy low-carb tortilla pizza recipe is perfect for a quick, delicious meal that won't derail your health goals. Inspired by the flavors of California Pizza Kitchen, this recipe uses simple, store-bought ingredients and can be customized with your favorite toppings. This tortilla pizza is not only easy to make but also versatile. Feel free to experiment with different toppings and sauces to create your own unique version. Whether you're looking for a quick dinner solution or a fun cooking activity, this recipe will satisfy your pizza cravings without the guilt. Enjoy your homemade low-carb delight!

Ingredients:

- 1 or 2 low-carb tortillas

- 1/2 cup of your choice of BBQ sauce

- 1 cup cooked chicken (roasted chicken preferred)

- 1/4 cup sliced red onion

- 1 cup shredded cheese (choose your favorite)

- Chopped cilantro for garnish

- Olive oil for frying

Directions:

1. Heat 1/4 cup of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Pan-fry the tortilla until it's golden brown and crispy. Alternatively, you can bake the tortilla in an oven preheated to 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes.

2. Spread the BBQ sauce evenly over the fried or baked tortilla.

3. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the sauce, then add the cooked chicken.

4. Distribute the sliced red onions and cilantro over the chicken.

5. Place the pizza under the broiler for 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Rainbow Fried Rice: A Colorful Culinary Creation

The beauty of a rainbow is universally inspiring, and it's no surprise that it can spark creativity in the kitchen as well. The concept of 'Rainbow Fried Rice' is a testament to the power of nature's palette influencing our culinary endeavors. This dish is a feast for the eyes and a treasure trove of nutrients, thanks to the variety of colorful vegetables used.

The idea behind Rainbow Fried Rice is simple yet ingenious. It takes the staple grain – rice – and infuses it with the vibrancy of vegetables that span the colors of the rainbow. From the deep purple of red cabbage to the bright orange of carrots, each color represents a different set of nutrients and flavors. This dish is a clever way to utilize leftover rice and vegetables, ensuring that nothing goes to waste while creating something delicious and nutritious. The process of making Rainbow Fried Rice is as enjoyable as eating it. Dicing the vegetables into small pieces is almost meditative, and the stir-fry sizzle is a symphony to the ears. As the ingredients come together in the skillet, the kitchen is filled with the aroma of garlic and onions, the sweetness of the corn, and the earthiness of the vegetables The final touch of seasoning brings the dish to life, with soy sauce adding umami depth and a sprinkle of sugar balancing the flavors.

Rainbow Fried Rice is more than just a meal; it's a celebration of diversity and a reminder of the simple pleasures in life. It's a dish that can bring people together, encouraging them to eat with their eyes first and then with their taste buds. It's a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit any dietary preference or to accommodate whatever vegetables are in season.

In a world where we often eat in a rush, Rainbow Fried Rice invites us to slow down and appreciate the beauty and flavor of our food. It's a dish that tells a story – of the rainbow after the rain, of the joy of cooking, and of the love of sharing a meal. So next time you find yourself with some leftover rice and a medley of vegetables, why not create your own Rainbow Fried Rice? It's a dish that promises to brighten up any mealtime with its colors and tastes.

Ingredients:

2 cups day-old cooked rice

1 cup combination of: corn kernels, red, green and yellow pepper, carrot, peas, yellow squash, zucchini, and red cabbage all cut into small diced pieces

2 eggs, beaten

1/4 cup diced white onion

2 garlic cloves, minced

Seasoning ingredients:

1/4 tsp each of salt, pepper, mushroom seasoning, soy sauce, and sugar. 

Oil for stir frying.

Directions:

In a large nonstick skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until they become fragrant. Add all the vegetables and stir and cook until softened about 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in rice. Cook, stirring, until they are crispy (about 2 minutes). Add the beaten eggs. Add the seasoning. Continue to cook, stirring until the rice and the eggs are well mixed (about 2 to 3 minutes).

Serve immediately and top with green onions or cilantro.

Enjoy your culinary adventure with Rainbow Fried Rice! Bon appétit!

Almond Oatmeal Cookies

Almond oatmeal cookies are not only a delicious treat but also a powerhouse of nutrition, making them a perfect snack for health-conscious individuals. Almonds, the star ingredient, are renowned for their nutrient density, providing a rich source of vitamins A and E, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin. Moreover, almond oil, derived from these nutritious nuts, mirrors their health benefits. It is particularly noted for its positive impact on heart health, attributed to its ability to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels while raising HDL (good) cholesterol. The presence of antioxidants and vitamin E in almond oil further enhances its appeal by combating free radicals and potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

This almond oatmeal cookie recipe is a testament to how healthful ingredients can be transformed into a delightful snack. The combination of almond flour and oatmeal offers a gluten-free alternative, while the inclusion of ripe banana and raisins adds natural sweetness and texture to the cookies. The use of almond or coconut oil not only contributes to the nutritional profile but also ensures a moist and tender crumb.

Ingredients:

1 cup almond flour

1/2 cup oatmeal

1 ripe banana

1/2 cup raisins

1/3 cup coconut oil or almond oil

1 tsp baking powder

1 tsp vanilla

Directions:

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. Prepare your baking tray with parchment paper cut to size.

3. In a bowl, mash a ripe banana until smooth.

4. Combine the banana with almond flour, oatmeal, raisins, almond or coconut oil, and baking powder, mixing thoroughly.

5. Using an ice cream scoop, portion the batter onto the prepared baking sheet.

6. Bake the cookies for 18 minutes or until they are golden and set.

7. Allow the cookies to cool slightly before enjoying them as a nutritious snack on the go.

Tip: These almond oatmeal cookies are not just a treat for the taste buds but also a smart choice for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. They embody the principle that food can be both enjoyable and beneficial for our well-being. Whether you're looking for a quick breakfast option, a midday snack, or a healthy dessert, these cookies are sure to satisfy your cravings while providing substantial nutritional value. So, the next time you're in the mood for something sweet, consider baking a batch of these heart-healthy, antioxidant-rich cookies. Bon appétit!

 

Gourd Stew: A Vietnamese Delight for Health and Flavor

The gourd, a humble fruit familiar to many Vietnamese households, is the foundation for numerous traditional dishes. Among these, gourd soup stands out for its simplicity and nourishment. The Vietnamese gourd, packed with essential nutrients, offers a myriad of health benefits.

One of the most notable advantages of consuming gourd is its ability to maintain stable blood pressure levels. Gourds are rich in flavonoids, nutrients known for their capacity to widen blood vessels, thus contributing to blood pressure stabilization. Extensive global research supports the consumption of Vietnamese gourds for their flavonoid content, which plays a role in preventing cardiovascular diseases.

Beyond its cardiovascular benefits, the gourd is also revered as a "miracle drug" for skin ailments in traditional folklore. It's said that gourds can heal ulcers and other skin conditions.

Another significant health benefit of gourds is their role in preventing kidney stones. They naturally reduce the intake of sodium and oxalate, both of which are factors in kidney stone formation.

For those on a journey to weight loss, gourds offer an additional advantage. They contain saponin, an active ingredient that suppresses appetite and aids in weight management.

With these benefits in mind, I'm excited to share my Vietnamese gourd stew recipe on my blog. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also a healthful addition to your diet.

Ingredients:

- 1 small gourd (bầu)

- 3 cloves of garlic, minced

- 2 shallots, chopped

- 3 red chilis

Stew Sauce Ingredients:

- 1/2 cup coconut water

- 1 tbsp soy sauce

- 1 tbsp vegan oyster sauce

- 1 tbsp sugar

- 1 tsp salt

- 1 tbsp mushroom seasoning

- 1/2 tsp black pepper

Directions:

1. Begin by peeling the gourd and cutting it into 1-inch rounds. Soak these slices in salted water for 15 minutes before draining.

2. Prepare the stew sauce by combining all the ingredients in a bowl.

3. Heat two tablespoons of oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped shallots, cooking them until they become fragrant, about three minutes.

4. Add the gourd slices, chilis and prepared sauce to the pan. Cover and let it simmer on medium heat for 15 minutes.

5. Afterward, remove the lid and continue cooking until the sauce thickens to your preference.

6. Finish by garnishing with chopped green onions and cilantro.

Serve this delightful stew with hot cooked rice and savor the flavors of Vietnam while reaping the health benefits it offers.

Enjoy your meal!

10 Powerful Mantras for Success to Start Your Day Powerfully

Everyone aspires for success, but have you ever felt that it comes easier to some than to others? Perhaps it's time for a new perspective! Start your day with these 10 mantras for success and watch how success comes to you effortlessly and with no stress.

 

#1 Forget Luck, Live by Intent

Sadhguru: A few things may happen by chance. But if you wait for the chance, good things will happen to you only when you are in your grave because things may take their time. Even quantum theory says that if you try, you can walk through a wall once in a "zillion" times because there is a pulsation of particles happening and you may walk through. It is just that before you reach that one zillionth time, you'll have a cracked skull. When you live by chance, you also live in fear and anxiety. When you live by intent and capability, it does not matter what is happening or not happening, at least you are in control of what is happening to you. It is a more stable life.

#2 Stop Fixating on Failure

For a committed man, there is no such thing as failure. If you fall 100 times in the day, it is 100 lessons learned. If you commit yourself like this to creating what you care for, your mind gets organized. Once your mind gets organized, your emotions will get organized because the way you think is the way you feel. Once your thoughts and emotions are organized, your energies and your very body will get organized. Once all these four are organized in one direction, your ability to create and manifest what you want is phenomenal. You are the creator in many ways.

#3 Work with Clarity

What a human being needs is clarity, not confidence. If you want to walk through a crowd of people, if your vision is clear and you can see where everybody is, you can just walk through the whole crowd without touching anyone. If your vision is not clear but you have confidence, you will walk over everybody. Because there is no clarity, people think that confidence is a good substitute. It just cannot be. Let’s say you make all the major decisions in your life like this: get yourself a coin, and flip it. If it’s heads, it’s one way, tails the other. It works 50% of the time. If you are right only 50% of the time, there are only two professions that you can keep – either a weatherman or an astrologer. You cannot keep any other job on this planet.

#4 Embrace the People and Things You Dislike

To handle different kinds of situations in our lives, we need different kinds of identities. If you are fluid about it, if you can change from one to another gracefully, then you can play your role to the hilt and still have no problem with it. But for most people, their personality is like a rock. It sits on them all the time and makes them suffer anything that does not fit into its ambit.

If you have to break that, you have to do something in reverse. This is a simple thing you can do: team up with somebody that you do not like. Spend time with that person, very lovingly, joyfully. Learn to do things that you do not like, be with people that you do not like, and still live your life sensibly, lovingly, and joyfully.

#5 Drop Your Calculations

There is no need to aspire to greatness. If you make the focus and ambit of your life well beyond the concerns of who you are, you will anyway be a great human being. If you look at certain people, greatness happened to them not because they were seeking to be great, but because their way of looking at life was way beyond “What about me?”

If you just drop this one calculation, “What about me?” from your head, and function to the best of your ability, in some way you will be great because you will naturally be looking at, “What can I do about all the life around me?” So, you will naturally enhance your capabilities because there is so much to do!

#6 Yoga For Success

Both the neurological and energy systems branch out in a big way between the shoulder blades and above. So, keeping the neck region in good condition is very important. Within 3-4 minutes of doing these neck practices, you will distinctly see that you are much more alert. There is a higher level of neuronal regeneration, and memory and intellectual sharpness also improve.

#7 Be Equanimous and Exuberant

To be successful in the world, what you fundamentally need is the prowess of the mind and the body. If you want to harness the mind, one of the most important qualities is equanimity. Equanimity gives you access to different dimensions of the mind. If there is no equanimity, your ability to use the mind is greatly reduced. Another important quality is the level of your energy – you need exuberance, both physiologically and internally. Only when your energies are exuberant do you have the ability to tide over obstacles in day-to-day life and move towards success? If equanimity and exuberance are brought into your mind and body, success will come to you much more easily.

#8 Tune Up Your Insight

Insight means you pay attention to life around you in such a way that you can see things that most people cannot see. If there is no insight, there is nothing to follow and toil for. Mediocrity can be transformed into extraordinary activity, only when there is a deep insight into something.

#9 Find Your Inspiration

Another important dimension is to constantly be inspired. Look at the reason why you are doing what you are doing and see the larger dimension of it, the contribution you make through every little thing you do in your life. Every action that human beings perform is a contribution to some dimension of this world. Whatever you may be doing, someone could benefit from it. Being conscious of your contribution will keep you inspired.

#10 Set the Gold Standard in Integrity

Integrity is important because when you want to function in the world, how much trust you generate with the people you interact with determines how easy or hard your daily efforts will be. If there is an atmosphere of trust, your ability to work will be greatly enhanced – simply because everyone will pave the way for you rather than setting up impediments.

Broccoli Stir-Fried with Garlic Sauce:--A Nutritious Vegan Delight

Broccoli, a cruciferous vegetable, is renowned for its wealth of health benefits. It's packed with essential vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. Regular consumption of broccoli can help reduce inflammation, stabilize blood sugar levels, and bolster the immune system. Additionally, it's known to enhance eyesight. As a proponent of broccoli's health advantages, I'm eager to share a simple yet profoundly beneficial recipe for broccoli stir-fried with garlic sauce. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also a fantastic addition to a vegan diet. Enjoy this wholesome vegan dish that brings both flavor and health benefits to your table.

Ingredients:

- 250g broccoli

- 3 cloves of garlic

- A small piece of ginger

Sauce ingredients:

- 1 tbsp soy sauce

- 1 tsp dark soy sauce

- 1 tsp sugar

- A splash of toasted sesame oil

- 1 tsp potato starch

- 2 tbsp water

Additional items:

- 1 tsp avocado oil

- 1 tsp white sesame seeds

Directions:

1. Begin by separating the florets from the broccoli stalk and chopping them into bite-sized pieces.

2. Grate the garlic and ginger. Prepare the sauce by whisking together soy sauce, dark soy sauce, sugar, toasted sesame oil, potato starch, and water in a bowl.

3. Bring a pot of water to a boil and add broccoli. Cook for 2 minutes and drain.

4.Warm a nonstick pan over medium heat and add avocado oil followed by gently cooking the grated garlic and ginger for 2-3 minutes.

5. Return the broccoli to the pan, increase the heat to medium, and sauté for about 1 minute.

6. Pour in the prepared sauce. Allow the broccoli to cook for about 30-45 seconds.

7. Stir well to ensure the broccoli is evenly coated with the sauce. Transfer to a plate and sprinkle with white sesame seeds.

8. Serve this nutritious stir-fry alongside cooked white rice for a complete meal.

 

Quick Korean Cucumber Side Dish

Cucumber kimchi or cucumber salad is a staple side dish in the Korean cuisine. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for anyone looking to add a fresh, flavorful touch to their meal, whether it be the main course or an appetizer. This simple yet delicious side dish brings the essence of Korean flavors to your table with minimal effort. Give it a try and enjoy the blend of crisp cucumber with the aromatic spices and seasonings.

 Ingredients:

- 1 small English cucumber

- 1/4 yellow onion

- 1 garlic clove, chopped

- 1 small green onion, chopped (about 1 tbsp)

- 2 teaspoons sesame seeds

- 1/2 teaspoon sugar

- 1 teaspoon sesame oil

- 3 teaspoons soy sauce

- 2 teaspoons red chili Korean pepper powder

-1 teaspoons Korean syrup

Directions:

1. Begin by washing the cucumber under running water to ensure it's clean.

2. Slice the cucumber in half lengthwise before cutting it into thin slices.

3. Place the cucumber slices into a mixing bowl.

4. Peel the onion and give it a good wash, then thinly slice it.

5. Into the mixing bowl, add the yellow onion, chopped garlic, and green onion.

6. Add in the sesame seeds, sugar, sesame oil, soy sauce, and red chili pepper powder.

7. Gently stir all the ingredients together until they are well combined.

8. Once mixed, transfer your Korean cucumber side dish onto a serving plate.

Enjoy your meal!

Tips: For an extra zing, squeeze a little lemon juice over the salad before serving.

Easy Blueberry Scone Recipe

Scones have their origins in the British cuisine and are akin to biscuits, especially when sugar is omitted.  However, by incorporating frozen fruits, such as blueberries, oranges, or mangoes, one can create delightful, sweet scones. This easy recipe features self-rising flour and heavy cream for a simple yet delicious treat. Indulge in these easy-to-make blueberry scones that promise a burst of fruity flavor with every bite!

Ingredients:

- 1 cup self-rising flour

- 1/3 to 1/2 cup sugar (depending on your sweetness preference)

- 1/4 cup cold butter

- 1/3 to 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream

Add-ons:

- 3/4 cup frozen blueberries

- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

- 1 tsp cinnamon powder

Directions:

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a mixing bowl, add the self-rising flour.

3. Cut the cold butter into small pieces and incorporate it into the flour using a fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

4. Gently fold in the frozen blueberries, vanilla extract, and cinnamon powder into the flour mixture.

5. Gradually pour in the heavy whipping cream, using a spatula to gently mix until the dough comes together in a ball.

6. Lightly flour your countertop and transfer the dough onto it. Pat the dough into a rough circle about 2 inches thick.

7. Cut the dough into 4 to 6 even portions and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart.

8. If desired, brush each scone with an egg wash for a golden finish.

9. Bake for approximately 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a scone comes out clean.

10. Serve the scones warm and enjoy!

Tips: you can shape the dough rough shape or rectangular shape

Green Beans & Seaweed Dessert: A Nutritious Summer Treat

As the summer heat waves roll in, there's nothing quite like a refreshing dessert to cool down. This unique dish combines the earthy flavors of green beans and seaweed with the succulent sweetness of aloe vera, creating a nutritious and hydrating treat. Serve this delightful dessert chilled or with ice for an extra cool factor. It's not only delicious but also packed with health benefits, making it an excellent choice for those hot summer days!

Ingredients:

- 1 cup dried whole mung beans

- 1/2 cup shredded seaweed

- 1 cup aloe vera meats

- 1/2 cup sugar

- A few pandan leaves

- 4 cups water

Directions:

1. Begin by thoroughly washing the mung beans several times before soaking them overnight. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.

2. Once soaked, place the mung beans in a steamer and steam for about 20 minutes, or until they are soft and tender.

3. While the beans are steaming, prepare the seaweed by soaking it in water for 15 minutes, then drain well.

4. For the aloe vera, carefully remove the outer layer and dice the meat inside.

5. Wash the pandan leaves and keep them ready.

6. To remove any bitterness from the aloe vera, wash it multiple times.

7. In a pot, combine 4 cups of water with sugar, pandan leaves, diced aloe vera meat, and seaweed. Bring this mixture to a boil and let it cook for about 10 minutes.

8. Finally, add the steamed mung beans into the pot and stir well.

The desert is ready.

Korean Mung Bean Sprouts Side Dish

In the vibrant array of the Korean cuisine, side dishes play a pivotal role in complementing the main course. Among these, mung bean sprouts is a popular choice for their crunchy texture and nutritional benefits.  Growing them at home adds a touch of freshness and personal touch to the meal.

 Ingredients: 

- 1 lb mung bean sprouts

- 1/2 cup water

Sauce ingredients:

- 1 tbsp light soy sauce

- 1 tsp sugar

- 1 tsp mirin

- 1 tsp rice vinegar

- 1 tsp sesame oil

- 2 slices of green onion

- 1 slice of hot chili

- 1 minced garlic clove

- 1/4 tsp roasted sesame seeds

Directions:

1. Begin by thoroughly washing the mung bean sprouts to ensure they are clean. After washing, allow them to drain completely.

2. Prepare the sauce by combining light soy sauce, sugar, mirin, rice vinegar, sesame oil, green onion slices, hot chili slice, minced garlic, and roasted sesame seeds in a mixing bowl. Once combined, set the bowl aside.

3. Use a large pot to add the mung bean sprouts. Create a small well in the center and carefully pour water into it. Cover the pot with a lid and place it over heat.

4. Allow the sprouts to steam for approximately 2 to 3 minutes. After steaming, remove them from the pot and let them cool down for a bit.

5. The final step is to pour the previously prepared sauce over the cooled mung bean sprouts.

This dish can be served either hot or cold, depending on your preference. It's a simple yet delightful addition to any meal that brings a taste of Korea right to your table.

The Best Ever Banana Bread

This is a simple and delicious recipe for banana bread that uses only one bowl and some basic ingredients. You can use up your overripe bananas and enjoy a moist and flavorful loaf. Here is how to make it:

Ingredients:

- 3 ripe bananas

- 2 cups of all-purpose flour

- 2 eggs, lightly beaten

- 1/2 cup of brown sugar

- 1/3 cup of granulated sugar

- 1/2 cup of oil or melted butter

- 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking soda

- 1/4 teaspoon of salt

- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon

- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

- 1 cup of chopped walnuts, divided

- A 9x5 inch baking pan

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease and flour the baking pan.

2. In a large bowl, mash the bananas with a fork until smooth. Add the eggs, oil or butter, and both sugars and mix well.

3. Stir in the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and vanilla. Fold in half of the walnuts.

4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and sprinkle the remaining walnuts on top.

5. Bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

6. Let the bread cool slightly in the pan before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

7. Enjoy your banana bread with some butter, jam, or honey if you like.