Zucchini Bread

This zucchini bread is my go‑to when I want something easy, delicious, and worth gifting.  It bakes up moist every time and fills the kitchen with the sweetest aroma.  Soft, fragrant, and wonderfully moist, this zucchini bread brings a little warmth to any day — the kind of recipe you’ll want to pass along to someone you love.  It is delicious that even people who “don’t like zucchini” suddenly become believers.  Bake at your own risk — neighbors may start showing up at your door.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups all‑purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
• 1 cup grated zucchini
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (your choice)
• 1/4 cup nonfat yogurt or cottage cheese
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp cinnamon powder

Directions:

1. Line an 8 x 5” loaf pan with parchment paper.

2. Preheat the oven to 350°F.

3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.

4. In a Vitamix or blender, combine the egg, vanilla, yogurt or cottage cheese, oil, and sugar.  Blend until smooth.

5. Pour the blended mixture into the dry ingredients. Add the grated zucchini and stir until just combined.

6. Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan.

7. Bake for about 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Let the bread cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a rack to finish cooling.

Easy Sour Cream Blueberry Cake

This moist and tender blueberry cake is perfect for anyone living on their own who still wants a homemade dessert.  Blueberries are rich in antioxidants, and this easy recipe lets you enjoy a delicious coffee-shop–style treat right at home.

Ingredients:

1 cup self-rising flour

1 cup frozen blueberries

2 large eggs

½ cup vegetable oil

½ cup sour cream

1 cup sugar

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon cinnamon powder

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for coating the blueberries)

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Preparing the cake pan:

 Lightly spray it with oil and dust with flour to prevent sticking.

Coating the blueberries:

Toss the frozen blueberries with the 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour.  This helps keep them from sinking in the batter.

Mixing the dry ingredients:

In a large bowl, combine the self-rising flour and cinnamon powder.

Blending the wet ingredients:

In a blender (such as a Vitamix) or mixing bowl, combine the eggs, vegetable oil, sour cream, sugar, and vanilla.  Blend or whisk until smooth.

Combining:

 Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients.  Gently fold in the coated blueberries.

Baking:

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cooling:

Let the cake cool before slicing and serving.

Tips:

If using fresh blueberries, skip thawing and coat them the same way.

For extra flavor, dust the top with powdered sugar or add a light lemon glaze.

Enjoy your soft, comforting blueberry cake!

Easy Mixed Rice (One Rice Cooker Meal)

When you’re short on time but still want to put a warm, nutritious meal on the table, this mixed rice is one of my favorite go-to dishes.  Everything cooks together in the rice cooker, which means less prep, fewer dishes, and lots of flexibility depending on what you have in the fridge.

In about 30 minutes, you’ll have a comforting, flavorful meal the whole family can enjoy.

Ingredients:

Rice ingredients:

1 cup Indian rice (basmati)

1¾ cups water

1 tablespoon cooking oil

Vegetables & Protein:

(About ½ cup each, adjust as you like)

Peas

Corn

Carrots

Chayote

White radish

2 oz. chicken breast, chopped

1 sausage, sliced

2 oz. chopped Spam (optional, for extra flavor)

Seasonings ingredients:

1 tablespoon oyster sauce

1 tablespoon soy sauce

1 teaspoon sugar

1 tablespoon chicken seasoning powder

½ teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon paprika or Korean chili powder (optional, for a little kick)

Garnish ingredients:

Fried onions (available at Asian markets)

Green onions, chopped

Cilantro, chopped

Directions:

Rinse the rice well, then add it to the rice cooker along with the water and cooking oil.

Layer the vegetables and protein evenly on top of the rice.  No need to stir—letting everything steam together keeps the rice fluffy.

Add all the seasonings over the top.

Close the lid and cook as usual until the rice cooker switches to “warm.”

Once done, gently fluff and mix everything together.

Serve hot and top with fried onions, green onions, and cilantro.

This dish is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a simple dipping sauce—soy sauce with a little chili, or anything your family enjoys.

Notes & Tips:

This recipe is very flexible by swapping in tofu, shrimp, or any vegetables you have on hand.

For a lighter version, you can reduce or skip the Spam.

Leftovers reheat beautifully and make a great lunch the next day.

Braised Tofu and Mini king oyster mushrooms with Lemongrass and Chili

Small king oyster mushrooms have a wonderfully meaty texture and a natural sweetness that makes them a perfect plant-based alternative to meat.  When combined with golden tofu, this dish becomes both nourishing and satisfying for all ages.  You can adjust the chili to make it mild for children or spicy for adults. Fragrant lemongrass, garlic, and shallots create a warm, savory aroma, while the gently reduced coconut sauce brings everything together in a comforting, flavorful braise.  The mushrooms stay juicy and chewy, the tofu soaks up the sauce, and every bite is rich yet light—perfect for everyday family meals.

Ingredients:

16 oz. firm tofu

10 oz. small king oyster mushrooms (king oyster mushrooms)

2 shallots, finely minced

3 garlic cloves, minced

3 tablespoons minced lemongrass

Braising Sauce ingredients:

½ cup fresh coconut water

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon oyster sauce

1 tablespoon sugar

1 tablespoon mushroom seasoning

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon Korean chili powder (adjust to taste)

Directions:

Preparing the ingredients:

Rinse the mushrooms in lightly salted water, then drain well.  If large, slice them into bite-size pieces. Cut the tofu into cubes or thick slices.

Frying the tofu:

Heat oil in a pan and fry the tofu until golden on all sides.  Remove and set aside.

Sautéing the aromatics:

In the same pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil.  Add the Korean chili powder, lemongrass, shallots, and garlic. Sauté over medium heat until fragrant and lightly golden.

Add the mushrooms to the pan and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until they begin to soften and release their aroma.

Add the fried tofu and pour in the braising sauce.  Stir gently to coat everything.  Reduce heat to low and let simmer until the sauce thickens and coats the mushrooms and tofu beautifully.

Adjusting seasoning:

Taste and adjust salt, sweetness, or chili to suit your family’s preference.

This braised mushroom and tofu dish is savory, lightly spicy, and deeply aromatic—perfect with steamed rice and a side of fresh vegetables for a balanced, comforting meal.

Homemade Vegetarian Oyster Sauce (Mushroom-Based)

Vegetarian oyster sauce is an essential ingredient in many plant-based and Asian dishes—it adds depth, richness, and natural umami.  Making it at home not only saves money but also gives you a cleaner, more nutritious sauce with no artificial additives.  Thanks to dried mushrooms and coconut water, this version is especially fragrant, flavorful, and naturally nourishing.

Ingredients:

3 cups mixed dried mushrooms (such as the Costco variety)

12 oz. fresh coconut water

1 cup hoisin sauce

2 cups soy sauce

½ cup mushroom seasoning powder

¼ cup sugar

Directions:

Soaking the Mushrooms:

Place the dried mushrooms in a large bowl and cover with water.  Soak about 1 hour until fully softened. Rinse well to remove any grit.

 

Blending:

Drain the mushrooms and place them in a blender with the fresh coconut water.  Blend until completely smooth.

Cooking the sauce:

Pour the mushroom mixture into a pot.  Add the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, mushroom seasoning powder, and sugar.

Bring to a gentle boil, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.

Simmering:

Let the sauce cook for about 10 minutes, or until it thickens to a consistency similar to oyster sauce.

Adjusting seasoning:

Taste and adjust saltiness or sweetness to suit your family’s preference.

Storing:

Let cool, then transfer to a clean glass jar with a tight lid.  Store in the refrigerator.

How to Use:

This rich, savory mushroom sauce is incredibly versatile. Use it to:

Marinate tofu, vegetables, or plant-based proteins

Stir-fry vegetables and noodles

Add depth to soups and stews

Serve as a dipping sauce for steamed or boiled vegetables

A spoonful of this homemade vegetarian oyster sauce instantly brings warmth, umami, and comfort to any dish.

Jujube Infused in Alcohol (Jujube Wine)

Jujube (Chinese red date) is not only a naturally sweet and nourishing fruit, but also a treasured medicinal herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine.  For centuries, it has been used to strengthen the body, calm the mind, and promote longevity.  When gently infused in alcohol, its beneficial compounds are extracted and preserved, creating a fragrant tonic that is both enjoyable and restorative.

Health Benefits of Jujube:

Supports restful sleep

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, jujube is used to nourish the heart and calm the spirit. It contains natural saponins that help relax the nervous system, making it easier to fall asleep and enjoy deeper, more restorative rest.

Improves digestion and relieves constipation

Jujube is rich in dietary fiber, which supports healthy intestinal movement and improves digestion. Regular consumption helps prevent bloating and constipation.

Reduces stress and anxiety

Jujube has a gentle calming effect on the nervous system.  It helps soothe mental tension, reduce anxiety, and promote a peaceful, balanced mood.

Powerful antioxidant protection

High in vitamin C and plant antioxidants, jujube helps protect cells from oxidative damage, strengthens the immune system, and supports healthy skin.

Supports healthy blood circulation and blood pressure

Jujube is high in potassium and low in sodium, which supports healthy blood pressure.  Its iron and phosphorus content also helps improve circulation and overall vitality.

Supports cancer prevention

Jujubes contain phenolic compounds and vitamin C that help neutralize free radicals, reducing cellular damage that may lead to cancer development.

Promotes youthful, radiant skin

The vitamin C and antioxidants in jujube stimulate collagen production, helping keep skin firm, smooth, and youthful while protecting against environmental damage.

How to Make Jujube Wine

Ingredients:

4 cups dried jujubes

1–2 tablespoons coarse salt

8 cups sake or other clear rice wine (about 18–25% alcohol)

A clean glass or ceramic jar with a tight-fitting lid

Directions:

Cleaning the jujubes

Dissolve the coarse salt in a bowl of water.  Soak the dried jujubes for about 2 hours to remove impurities and dust.  Rinse thoroughly under running water and drain well.

Filling the jar

Place the cleaned jujubes into the jar.

Adding the alcohol

Pour the sake over the jujubes until they are completely submerged.

Sealing and storing

Close the lid tightly and store the jar in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Infusion time

Let the jujubes infuse for at least 6 months.  Over time, the flavor will become deeper, smoother, and more aromatic.

How to Use Jujube Wine

Drink one small glass (about 30–50 ml) once or twice a day, preferably with meals.

Do not exceed 100 ml per day, as this is a medicinal infusion rather than a regular beverage.

When used in moderation, jujube wine supports sleep, digestion, circulation, and overall vitality.

Jujube wine is a beautiful blend of traditional herbal wisdom and gentle fermentation.  With patience and care, you can create a fragrant, nourishing tonic that warms the body, calms the mind, and supports long-term wellness.

 

from the internet

Braised Tofu in Soy Sauce

Tofu is a staple source of protein in many vegetarian diets. While it may seem bland on its own, tofu has an amazing ability to absorb flavors when prepared properly.  With the right ingredients and cooking technique, it can become deeply savory, satisfying, and comforting.

This braised tofu recipe is rich, aromatic, and well-balanced—perfect even for those who usually think tofu is boring.  Serve it with hot rice for a simple yet nourishing meal.

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Ingredients:

Tofu ingredients:

• 16 oz. firm tofu
• Water for boiling
• 2 cups water
• 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce
• ½ teaspoon salt

Braising Sauce ingredients:

• 1 cup coconut water
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon cooking wine
• 1 teaspoon vinegar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (optional, for heat)

Aromatics & Other ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon cooking oil
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon minced ginger
• 2 green onions, chopped

Garnish:

• Chopped basil or cilantro

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Directions:

1.   Preparing the tofu:
Cut the tofu into slices about ½ inch thick and 2 inches long.  Bring a pot of water to a boil, add the salt and dark soy sauce, then gently add the tofu.  Boil for about 10 minutes to remove excess moisture and help the tofu absorb flavor.  Drain and set aside.

2.   Making the sauce:
In a small bowl, combine all the braising sauce ingredients.  Stir well to dissolve the cornstarch completely.

3.   Sautéing the aromatics:
Heat a pan over medium heat and add the cooking oil.  Add the garlic and ginger and sauté until fragrant.  For extra heat, you may add sliced fresh chilies at this stage.

4.   Braising the tofu:
Pour the sauce into the pan and bring it to a gentle boil. Add the tofu and green onions.  Reduce heat and simmer until the sauce thickens and coats the tofu evenly.

5.   Finishing and serving:
Turn off the heat and garnish with chopped basil or cilantro.  Serve hot with steamed rice.

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Tips:

• For a fully vegetarian version, replace oyster sauce with mushroom oyster sauce.
• Let the tofu simmer a little longer for deeper flavor absorption.
• This dish pairs beautifully with plain rice or brown rice for a balanced meal.

Simple, hearty, and full of flavor—this braised tofu dish proves that plant-based cooking can be deeply satisfying.