Rare Signs of a Special Soul

According to Carl Jung, among the millions of people on this planet, only the very few carry certain rare signs. If you recognize these signs in yourself, you may belong to that exceptional group—people who are different, profound, and hard to come by.

They are not loud or showy.  They think differently, feel differently, and live differently.  Their souls seem to touch a depth that most of us cannot reach. And their presence often leaves a lasting impression on others.

Carl Jung—the master of analytical psychology—once compared these personalities to “torches in the dark.”  They may be solitary, yet they are also guides.  They are few, but precisely because of that scarcity, they are treasures of humanity. So, do you carry these special signs within yourself?

1. Choosing morality over personal gain

When faced with difficulties, most people weigh risks and personal benefits.  But rare souls look beyond material gain, considering ethical values and the impact on their inner being. They only make choices when those align with their conscience.

2. Thinking deeply and asking uncommon questions

You often ponder things that few people care about, sometimes feeling lonely because no one seems to share your questions.  But this is not a weakness—it is the gift Jung called “seeing through the veil of illusion.”  It allows you to become a light for others.

3. Daring to say what others don’t

In crowds, you may feel uncomfortable, even alienated within your own family.  Yet your courage to speak the truth, even when others stay silent, is a mark of rare strength—though it may cause you to be seen as “eccentric.”

4. Being a source of support for others

You naturally empathize with the sorrow of others, willingly listen, and offer unconditional help.  This rare gift acts like an “antenna” that picks up emotional signals, allowing you to live with compassion and help heal those around you.

5. Feeling like you don’t belong anywhere

Since childhood, you may have carried thoughts far beyond your age, drawn to questions “not meant for children.”  This sense of difference can make you feel isolated, unable to blend into noisy conversations.  Yet this very difference shapes you into one of the rare souls in adulthood.

6. Courageously defending the truth

In an environment full of deceit, where many strive only to move ahead, you remain steadfast in protecting what is right—even if it means being hurt or rejected by the majority. This is the mark of a brave heart.

7. Having convictions, living by conscience

You trust your own reasoning and act in ways you will not regret.  This is done not rigidity, but integrity grounded in conscience. You cannot lie to yourself just to satisfy the crowd.

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Conclusion

If you find one or more of these signs within yourself, congratulations—you are a rare soul. Treasure and cultivate these qualities, even if it means walking alone at times is when remember: you are a “torch” shining for truth and justice, and you will never betray your own conscience just to hide or please the masses.

Vietnamese Tuna Salad: A Fusion of Freshness and Flavor

That that This Vietnamese Tuna Salad is a vibrant twist on a classic dish, where bold Southeast Asian flavors meet the simplicity of Western comfort food.  Packed with protein-rich tuna, fresh herbs, and a zesty dressing made from fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar, it’s a refreshing and nutritious meal that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying.  The roasted rice powder adds a subtle nuttiness and crunch, while mint, cilantro, and green onions bring brightness and depth.  Whether you're looking for a light lunch or a flavorful side, this East-meets-West creation delivers a delicious balance of tang, umami, and freshness in every bite.

Ingredients:

• 2 cans of tuna (drained)
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp roasted rice powder (see recipe below)
• Herbs: 1 cup mixed mint, cilantro, and green onions, chopped

Dressing ingredients:

• 2 tbsp fish sauce
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tbsp sugar

Directions:

1. Making the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar until well combined.  Adjust to taste—add more lime for sourness, fish sauce for saltiness, or sugar for sweetness.
2. Assembling the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine tuna, dressing, sliced onion, roasted rice powder, and chopped herbs. Toss gently until evenly coated.
3. Serving: Plate the salad and serve with fresh lettuce leaves on the side.

How to Make Roasted Rice Powder:

1. For this recipe, use 2 tbsp sweet (glutinous) rice.  To make a larger batch, toast ½ cup sweet rice and store it for later use.
2. In a nonstick pan, add the sweet rice along with three kaffir lime leaves.  Toast over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the rice turns golden brown.
3. Remove and discard the kaffir lime leaves.  Let the toasted rice cool completely.
4. Grind the cooled rice in a small food processor until it becomes a fine powder.
5. Store the roasted rice powder in a glass jar with a tight lid—it will keep for several months.

How to make roasted rice powder:

For this recipe, use 2 tbsp of sweet rice. However, you can use 1/2 cup sweet rice to make a larger batch for later use.

In a nonstick pan, add sweet rice with three kiefer lime leaves.  Turn the heat to medium and toast the rice until golden brown.  Discard the kiefer lime.  Let it cool

Place the cool roasted rice in a small food processor and blend it into powder.

Keep the roasted rice powder in a glass jar with a lid, and you can keep it for months.

Cheese Sables: A Golden Bite of Nostalgia and Charm

There’s something quietly elegant about a Cheese Sable—crisp, buttery, and infused with the kind of savory warmth that makes you pause mid-bite and smile.  These golden biscuits aren’t just snacks; they’re little invitations to slow down, pour a drink, and savor the moment.  I first discovered this recipe tucked inside the well-worn pages of an old cookbook called Good Eating, and it’s been a quiet favorite ever since.

With just a handful of humble ingredients—flour, butter, cheese, and a touch of sour cream—these sables come together effortlessly, yet taste like something you’d find at a cozy French café or a well-set holiday table.  Whether you’re hosting friends, prepping a lunch spread, or simply treating yourself, they’re the kind of bite-sized joy that turns any occasion into something special.

Ready to bake a little comfort into your day?  Let’s begin.

 Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 ⅓ cups mixed cheese (shredded)
• 1 stick (½ cup) cold unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp sour cream
• 2 tbsp sesame seeds

Directions:

1.     In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and shredded cheese.

2.     Cut the cold butter into small cubes and add it to the flour mixture.  Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the dry ingredients until the texture resembles coarse crumbs.

3.     Stir in the sour cream and mix until a soft dough forms.  Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

4.     Lightly flour your work surface, then roll out the chilled dough into a thin sheet.  Using a 2½-inch cookie cutter, cut out crackers until all the dough is used.

5.     Place the cut-out crackers onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.  Sprinkle each with sesame seeds, pressing them lightly so they stick.

6.     Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes, or until golden brown.

7.     Allow to cool slightly before serving.  Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

 

Chef’s Tip: For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of paprika, garlic powder, or dried herbs to the dough.

Easy Pull Rotisserie Chicken: A Shortcut to Flavorful Comfort

When life speeds up, the kitchen doesn’t have to slow you down. Rotisserie chicken—tender, seasoned, and ready to go—is the unsung hero of busy households.  It’s not just the most popular item in grocery stores; it’s a gateway to countless comforting meals with minimal effort.

In my kitchen, this humble chicken becomes the heart of spring rolls, the soul of chicken fried rice, and even the base for a rich pho broth.  But today, I’m sharing one of my favorite time-saving tricks: transforming rotisserie chicken into juicy, flavorful pulled chicken using a crockpot.

This recipe is perfect for multitaskers, meal preppers, and anyone craving something delicious without the fuss.  Packed with protein and endless possibilities, pulled rotisserie chicken can be the start of a hearty stew, a quick sandwich, or a cozy rice bowl.

Let’s make convenience taste like home.

 

Ingredients:

• 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions:

1.    In a large saucepan, add the shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, chicken broth, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

2.    Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 15–20 minutes, until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is well blended.

3.    Serve hot on buns, over rice, or alongside coleslaw for a complete meal.

 

Tip:

• For extra convenience, use a slow cooker: combine all ingredients and cook on low for 5–6 hours.
• Add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili powder for a smoky, spicy kick.
• Use leftover chicken to make BBQ chicken nachos, tacos, or baked potatoes.

1. Classic Comfort:

• Soft sandwich buns or slider rolls – Toasted lightly and piled high with pulled chicken and a slice of cheddar.
• Creamy coleslaw – Adds crunch and a cool contrast to the warm BBQ flavors.
• Pickles or pickled onions – For a tangy bite that cuts through the richness.

2. Asian-Inspired Twist:

• Steamed jasmine rice or sticky rice – A gentle base that lets the chicken flavor shine.
• Quick cucumber salad – Toss thin slices with rice vinegar, sugar, and sesame seeds.
• Spring roll wrappers – Fill with pulled chicken, herbs, and veggies for a fresh wrap.

3. Cozy Bowl Style:

• Mashed potatoes or sweet potato mash – Comfort food heaven.
• Roasted vegetables – Think carrots, bell peppers, or broccoli tossed in olive oil and garlic.
• Cornbread or garlic toast – Perfect for soaking up extra sauce.

4. Light & Fresh:

• Mixed greens or arugula salad – Add cherry tomatoes, avocado, and a lemon vinaigrette.
• Quinoa or couscous – A protein-packed grain that’s quick to prepare.
• Fruit salsa – Try mango or pineapple salsa for a tropical touch.

Braised Tofu with Mushrooms in Coconut Sauce

Rooted in the gentle rhythms of Vietnamese home kitchens, this chay (vegetarian) dish brings together the humble elegance of đậu hũ (tofu) and the earthy sweetness of nấm rơm (straw mushrooms) or other kinds of mushrooms, such as king oyster.  Simmered in a rich coconut milk sauce with soy and vegan oyster flavors, it’s a comforting kho-style braise that speaks to generations of quiet nourishment.  No elaborate ingredients—just the familiar staples tucked into every Vietnamese pantry.  Serve it hot with a bowl of cơm trắng (steamed rice), and you’ll taste the kind of love that’s passed down through ladles and laughter.

  

Ingredients:

• 16 oz. medium-firm tofu, cut into ½-inch cubes
• 5 oz. straw mushrooms (or substitute king oyster mushrooms, sliced)

Seasonings Ingredients:

• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 shallots, minced
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Fresh chili slices (optional)

Braised Sauce Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp vegan oyster sauce
• ½ cup fresh coconut milk
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tbsp mushroom seasoning (or vegetarian broth powder)
• Nuoc Mau or Anato oil

For garnish:

• 2 stalks green onion, sliced

 

Directions:

1.    Preparing the tofu:

·         Heat a little oil in a pot or deep skillet.

·         Add tofu cubes and fry until lightly golden on all sides. Remove and set aside.

2.    Building the flavor:

·         In the same pot, sauté minced garlic and shallots until fragrant.

·         Add mushrooms and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes.

3.    Braising:

·         Return the fried tofu to the pot.

·         Mix all the braising sauce ingredients in a small bowl, then pour over the tofu and mushrooms.

·         Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes until the sauce thickens and the tofu is infused with flavor.

·         Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

4.    Finishing & Serving:

·         Stir in sliced green onions and fresh chili (if using).

·         Serve hot with steamed rice.

 

Chef’s Tips:

• Crispier tofu: Before frying, pat tofu dry with a paper towel and lightly dust with cornstarch.  This helps create a golden, crisp outer layer that holds up better in the sauce.
• Spicier kick: Add sliced Thai chili, a spoonful of chili paste, or a drizzle of chili oil to the braising sauce.
• Healthier option: Use less oil when pan-frying or air-fry the tofu until golden. You can also reduce sugar slightly and balance it with a squeeze of lime juice at the end for freshness.
• Extra depth: Add a small piece of lemongrass or a kaffir lime leaf while braising for a fragrant Vietnamese-style twist.

Shortcut BBQ Chicken Pizza: A Taste of California, Made Simple

There’s something universally comforting about pizza—it gathers people, sparks joy, and satisfies cravings in every bite.  This recipe is inspired by my time at California Pizza Kitchen, where creativity met convenience in the most delicious ways.  While some may debate what makes a “real” pizza, I’ve always believed that flavor and heart matter more than tradition.

This Shortcut BBQ Chicken Pizza brings that spirit home.  It’s a nod to the beloved California-style BBQ Chicken Pizza, but with a twist that makes it accessible to anyone, anytime.  No need to knead dough for hours or simmer sauces from scratch—grab a few high-quality, ready-made ingredients and let the magic happen.

 

Ingredients:

• 2 (8-inch) ready-made pizza doughs
• 1 cup cooked chicken, chopped
• ½ cup BBQ sauce (sweet and spicy recommended)
• ¼ cup Gouda cheese, shredded
• 2 cups Mexican blend or mozzarella cheese, shredded
• ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped

 

Directions:

1.    Preheating the oven:

2.    If using a pizza stone, place it in the center of the oven and preheat to 500°F (260°C) for 1 hour before baking.

3.    Preparing the chicken:

4.    Toss the chopped chicken with two tablespoons of BBQ sauce to coat.

5.    Assembling the pizzas:

·         Spread the remaining BBQ sauce evenly over both pizza doughs, leaving a small border around the edges.

·         Sprinkle half of the Gouda and half of the Mexican (or mozzarella) cheese evenly over the sauce.

·         Distribute the BBQ chicken evenly across both pizzas, then top with sliced red onions.

·         Finish with the remaining cheese on top of the chicken.

6.    Baking:

7.    Transfer the pizzas to the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the crust is crisp and golden, and the cheese is melted and bubbly in the center.

8.    Finishing and Serving:

9.    Remove from the oven, sprinkle with chopped cilantro, slice, and serve hot.

 

Why Ready-Made Ingredients Work (and Work Well)

Using store-bought dough, rotisserie chicken, and your favorite BBQ sauce isn’t cutting corners—it’s choosing ease without sacrificing flavor. Here is why:

• ⏱ Time-Saving Without Compromise: Life is busy. Ready-made dough and pre-cooked chicken let you skip the prep and jump straight to the fun part—assembling and baking.
• 🧡 Consistency & Quality: Brands like Trader Joe’s and Costco offer reliable, delicious ingredients that rival homemade versions.  You get restaurant-level results with half the effort.
• 🎉 More Time for Connection: Less time in the kitchen means more time enjoying the meal with loved ones.  That’s what pizza night is all about.

 

Whether you're hosting a casual dinner or just craving something cozy and satisfying, this Shortcut BBQ Pizza delivers bold flavor and warm memories—without the fuss..

All-Purpose Stir-Fry Sauce

A beloved staple in Asian kitchens, this versatile sauce brings depth and harmony to everything from sizzling meats to vibrant vegetables.  In restaurants, it’s the quiet hero behind countless stir-fried dishes.  At home, having a jar ready in the fridge means you’re just moments away from a flavorful meal. Whether you're cooking for omnivores or vegetarians, this recipe adapts beautifully with just a few tweaks.

🌟 Ingredients:

• 1 cup oyster sauce (use vegetarian oyster sauce for plant-based version)
• 1 cup water
• ½ cup soy sauce
• ½ cup sugar
• ¼ cup vinegar (rice vinegar preferred)
• ¼ cup ketchup
• ¼ cup cooking wine (Shaoxing or dry sherry works well)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 tbsp bouillon powder (chicken or mushroom, depending on preference)

🔥 Durations:

1.    Combine all ingredients in a saucepan.

2.    Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar fully dissolves.

3.    Remove from heat and allow to cool completely.

4.    Transfer to a clean glass jar with a tight-fitting lid.

5.    Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

🍽️ Usage Tip:

For each stir-fry dish, use approximately ¼ cup of sauce per serving.  Adjust to taste depending on the ingredients and desired intensity.

Alternative ingredients can be used:

🧂 Umami Base:

OriginalAlternatives

Oyster sauce , Vegetarian oyster sauce (made from mushrooms), hoisin sauce, mushroom soy sauce.

Chicken bouillon powder , Mushroom bouillon, vegetable stock powder, miso paste (adds depth and saltiness).

🍶 Salty & Savory:

OriginalAlternatives

Soy sauce Tamari (gluten-free), liquid aminos, coconut aminos (lower sodium & sweeter).

🍭 Sweetness:

OriginalAlternatives

Sugar , Honey, maple syrup, brown sugar, coconut sugar, or a sugar-free sweetener like stevia or monk fruit (adjust to taste).

🍷 Tang & Acidity:

OriginalAlternatives

Vinegar : Rice vinegar, apple cider vinegar, white wine vinegar, lemon juice.

Ketchup , Tomato paste + a touch of sugar and vinegar, chili sauce for a spicy kick.

🍸 Aromatic Depth:

OriginalAlternatives

Cooking wine , Shaoxing wine, dry sherry, mirin (sweeter), sesame oil or omit and add a splash of vinegar for brightness.