Self-rising flour recipe

Self-rising flour is the fastest way to go when you have a short time to make a cake or muffin for breakfast for surprise guests.  You can buy self-rising flour already made in any store.  However, if you run out of it, then this recipe will help you make it at home.  This recipe is from the King Arthur website, so you can be confident in making larger batches

Ingredients:

1 cup all‑purpose flour

1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt  

To scale this to 10 cups of flour, multiply each ingredient by 10, for example:

 Self‑Rising Flour for 10 Cups of All‑Purpose Flour

Ingredients:

10 cups all‑purpose flour

15 teaspoons baking powder

2 1/2 teaspoons salt

 Simplified Measurements to make it easier:

Baking powder:  

15 teaspoons = 5 tablespoons

Salt:  

2 1/2 teaspoons = 2 teaspoons + 1/2 teaspoon

Final Large‑Batch Recipe (10 cups):

10 cups all-purpose flour

5 tablespoons baking powder

2 1/2 teaspoons salt

Whisk thoroughly to distribute the leavening evenly (the page emphasizes whisking all ingredients together) 

Pillow-Shaped Dumplings (Bánh Gối)

Bánh gối, or Vietnamese pillow-shaped dumplings, are a popular street food enjoyed throughout Vietnam. Depending on the region, they may have different names and slightly different fillings, but they are always recognized by their signature crescent shape with a puffy center that resembles a pillow.

Traditionally, the wrapper is made from wheat flour dough and filled with a savory mixture of seasoned ground pork, Chinese sausage, wood ear mushrooms, and vegetables such as jicama and carrots.  The dumplings are then deep-fried until golden and crispy. They are typically served with fresh herbs, pickled vegetables, and a sweet-and-sour fish sauce for dipping.

For this simplified version, I use ready-made empanada dough, which is widely available in most American supermarkets.  It saves time without sacrificing the delicious crispy texture.  Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite ingredients.

Ingredients:

Filling ingredients:

½ lb ground chicken

1 Chinese sausage (lap cheong), finely diced

1 cup finely chopped jicama

½ cup finely chopped carrots

5 dried wood ear mushrooms, soaked, drained, and finely chopped

½ cup finely chopped onion

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon fish sauce

½ teaspoon ground black pepper

1 teaspoon chicken seasoning powder (or chicken bouillon powder)

Wrapper:

1 package empanada dough discs

For Frying:

Neutral cooking oil

Directions:

Heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat.  Sauté the onion until fragrant.

Add the jicama, carrots, and diced Chinese sausage. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.

Add the ground chicken and stir-fry until it is no longer pink but not fully cooked.

Stir in the chopped wood ear mushrooms.  Season with salt, fish sauce, black pepper, and chicken seasoning powder.  Cook for another minute, then remove from the heat and let the filling cool slightly. The filling only needs to be partially cooked, as it will finish cooking during frying.

Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each empanada dough disc.  Lightly brush the edges with water, fold the dough over into a half-moon shape, and press the edges firmly to seal.  Crimp or pleat the edges for a traditional look.

Heat enough oil in a deep skillet or saucepan to reach at least halfway up the dumplings.  When the oil reaches about 320°F (160°C), carefully add the dumplings in batches.

Fry for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the wrappers are puffed, crisp, and evenly golden brown. Transfer to a paper towel-covered in plate to drain.

Sweet and Sour Dipping Sauce:

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon fish sauce

1 tablespoon sugar

1 tablespoon cold water

1 teaspoon vinegar

Minced garlic, to taste

Minced chili, to taste

Directions:

Combine the fish sauce, sugar, water, and vinegar in a small bowl, stirring until the sugar dissolves.  Add the minced garlic and chili, then adjust the seasoning to your taste.   If you prefer a sweeter or tangier sauce, simply add a little more sugar or vinegar.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve the crispy bánh gối hot with a platter of fresh lettuce and herbs, sweet-and-sour pickled daikon and carrots, and the dipping sauce.  The combination of the crunchy wrapper, savory filling, crisp vegetables, and tangy sauce makes this classic Vietnamese street food irresistibly delicious.

Oatmeal and Egg Soup

A warm bowl of oatmeal and egg soup is a simple, nourishing breakfast that comes together in minutes. It’s especially helpful for anyone trying to lose weight or maintain steady energy throughout the morning – oatmeal provides slow‑digesting fiber that keeps you full, while the egg adds satisfying protein.  The result is a light, comforting meal that’s both wholesome and efficient.

Ingredients:

1/4 cup oatmeal

1 egg

1/8 teaspoon salt

1 cup water

Directions:

Pour the water into a small saucepan and bring it to a boil over medium heat.

Add the oatmeal and salt.  Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats soften and the mixture thickens.

Crack the egg directly into the saucepan.  Stir gently to create silky ribbons of egg throughout the soup.

Turn off the heat and let the soup sit for a minute to finish cooking.

Your warm, protein‑rich oatmeal and egg soup is ready to enjoy.

Savory Variations:

Ginger–Scallion Boost:  Add 1–2 teaspoons of finely chopped scallions and a few slices of ginger while the water heats.  Finish with a splash of soy sauce or sesame without for a light Asian‑style breakfast.

Vegetable Comfort Bowl:  Stir in a handful of spinach, grated carrot, or chopped mushrooms during the oatmeal‑cooking stage.  The vegetables soften quickly and make the soup heartier.

Herb & Pepper Upgrade:  Add black pepper, a pinch of garlic powder, or fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. These brighten the flavor without adding calories.

Chicken Broth Swap:  Replace water with low‑sodium chicken broth for a richer, more savory base.

 

Sweet Variations:

Honey & Cinnamon:  Add a pinch of cinnamon while cooking the oats, then drizzle a little honey after turning off the heat.

Fruit Ribbon Egg Drop:  Add a few slices of banana or berries right before stirring in the egg.  The heat softens the fruit and creates a naturally sweet bowl.

Vanilla Warmth:  A tiny splash of vanilla extract transforms the soup into a cozy, pudding‑like breakfast.

Higher‑Protein Variations:

Double‑Egg Version:  Use two eggs instead of one. Stir gently to keep the texture silky.

Greek Yogurt Swirl:  After turning off the heat, stir in 2 tablespoons of plain Greek yogurt.  It adds creaminess and extra protein.

Protein Powder Boost:  Mix 1–2 teaspoons of unflavored whey or soy protein powder into the oatmeal after removing from heat to avoid clumping.

 

Tofu Soft Cubes:  Add small cubes of soft tofu during cooking.  They blend beautifully into the soup and increase protein without changing flavor.

 

Is Being Vegetarian as Difficult as You Think?

Is Being Vegetarian as Difficult as You Think?

This is a question many people ask when they hesitate to embrace a vegetarian lifestyle.  In reality, becoming vegetarian is not as difficult as it seems.  I have followed a vegetarian diet for more than four years, and I have learned that the greatest challenge is not the food itself – it is our mindset.

Today, there are many plant-based products made to resemble familiar meat dishes, such as vegetarian chicken, fish, and sausage.  These foods can help beginners transition more comfortably into a vegetarian lifestyle.  However, for those who choose vegetarianism as part of their spiritual practice, avoiding imitation meat products may help reduce attachment to the taste and desire for meat, allowing the mind to become calmer and more focused.

Many people also worry that a long-term vegetarian diet may not provide enough nutrition.  However, a growing body of scientific research has shown that a well-planned vegetarian diet can provide all the essential nutrients the body needs while offering many long-term health benefits.

If we think of vegetarianism as simply giving up meat and our favorite foods, we naturally focus on what we believe we are losing.  This mindset makes becoming vegetarian seem difficult.  But when we change our perspective, we discover that vegetarianism is not about loss – it is about cultivating something much greater.

Every vegetarian meal is an opportunity to nurture compassion, reduce unnecessary suffering, and protect the lives of animals.  As the demand for meat decreases, the need for hunting, fishing, and slaughter also declines.  A small choice made by each of us can contribute to positive changes for animals, society, and the environment.

According to the Buddha's teachings, we are encouraged to cultivate loving-kindness and compassion while avoiding harm to all living beings. Every living creature, whether human or animal, treasures its life and possesses Buddha-nature – the potential to awaken through spiritual practice. Therefore, vegetarianism is not merely a dietary choice; it is a practice that helps us develop compassion and mindfulness in every meal we eat.

Equally important, Buddhists are taught not to become proud or self-righteous because they are vegetarian.  Looking down on those who are not vegetarian contradicts the very principles of humility and compassion that the Buddha taught. Every person has their own circumstances, understanding, and right time to make meaningful changes in life.

From a scientific perspective, a healthy vegetarian diet provides abundant dietary fiber, vitamins C and E, folate, magnesium, healthy unsaturated fats, and many powerful antioxidants. These nutrients help lower cholesterol, support healthy blood pressure, reduce the risk of heart disease, strengthen the immune system, and improve digestive health.  Eating more vegetables, fruits, legumes, and whole grains has also been associated with a lower risk of many chronic diseases and a longer, healthier life.

For these reasons, vegetarianism has become increasingly popular around the world.  It is no longer practiced only by people of faith.  Many individuals choose a vegetarian lifestyle to improve their health, protect the environment, maintain a healthy weight, and enjoy a better quality of life.

What is especially interesting is that science and Buddhism, although they begin from different perspectives, arrive at remarkably similar conclusions.  Science shows that a balanced vegetarian diet promotes physical health, helps prevent disease, and may increase longevity. Buddhism teaches that vegetarianism cultivates compassion, purifies the mind, and reduces the karma associated with taking life.  One approach nourishes the body, while the other nourishes the mind, but both ultimately guide us toward a healthier, more peaceful, and more meaningful life.

In my own experience, if someone wishes to begin transforming themselves, practicing vegetarianism is one of the most accessible first steps.  Eating more whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and legumes makes the body feel lighter and healthier while helping the mind become calmer.  At the same time, it allows us to cultivate compassion, which is one of the fundamental virtues on the path of personal and spiritual growth.

Every living creature values its life and fears pain. When we truly understand this, we begin to appreciate our food in a different way.  Vegetarianism is not about forcing ourselves to give something up.  Rather, it is about expanding our compassion to embrace all forms of life.

You do not have to become a full-time vegetarian overnight.  You can begin with one vegetarian day each week, then gradually increase to two days or simply enjoy a few vegetarian meals each month.  Every small step is meaningful.  As you experience the benefits of better health, greater inner peace, and the joy of knowing that your choices help protect living beings, you may discover that vegetarianism is no longer a difficult sacrifice but a natural, fulfilling, and compassionate way of life.

Sticky Corn Dessert Cooked in a Rice Cooker

Sticky Corn Dessert Cooked in a Rice Cooker

Sticky Corn Dessert is a comforting Vietnamese sweet soup made with tender corn, chewy glutinous rice, and rich coconut sauce.  Traditionally, this dessert is prepared with Vietnamese sticky corn, which gives it a wonderfully chewy texture.  If you only have American sweet corn, don't worry – you can still make a delicious version that's naturally sweeter and equally satisfying. Using a rice cooker makes the process simple and convenient while delivering a warm, nostalgic dessert that's perfect for any time of year.

Ingredients:

Ingredients For the Sticky Corn Dessert:

3 ears fresh corn

1 cup glutinous rice, rinsed

4 cups water

1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)

1/4 teaspoon salt

Ingredients For the Coconut Sauce:

1 (12-ounce) can coconut milk

3 pandan leaves, tied into a knot (optional, but recommended)

2 tablespoons sugar

1 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon cornstarch or tapioca starch

2 tablespoons water (to dissolve the starch)

Directions:

Step 1: Preparing the Corn:

Remove the husks and silk from the corn.

Using a sharp knife, carefully shave the kernels from each cob.  Set the kernels aside and reserve the cobs.

Step 2: Making the Corn Broth:

In a saucepan, combine the reserved corn cobs, 4 cups of water, and the pandan leaves.

Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the cobs to release their natural sweetness.

Remove and discard the corn cobs and pandan leaves.

Step 3: Cooking the Sticky Corn Dessert:

Place the rinsed glutinous rice and shaved corn kernels into the rice cooker.

Add the sugar, salt, and the warm corn broth.

Stir until the sugar dissolves.

Close the lid and cook using the Porridge setting if your rice cooker has one.  If not, use the regular Cook setting.  Once the cooking cycle finishes, let the dessert rest on the Keep Warm setting for 10–15 minutes, or until the rice is soft and the mixture is thick and creamy.

Step 4: Making the Coconut Sauce:

In a small saucepan, combine the coconut milk, sugar, salt, and pandan leaves.

Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

Mix the cornstarch (or tapioca starch) with 2 tablespoons of water until smooth.

Slowly stir the starch slurry into the coconut milk and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens slightly.

Remove the pandan leaves and set the sauce aside.

To Serve:

Ladle the sticky corn dessert into serving bowls and drizzle generously with the warm coconut sauce.

Enjoy it warm for a comforting treat or chill it in the refrigerator for a refreshing dessert on a hot day.

 

Tips:

Vietnamese sticky corn creates the chewiest texture, but American sweet corn also works well and adds a naturally sweet flavor.

Adjust the amount of sugar to suit your taste and the sweetness of your corn.

Tapioca starch gives the coconut sauce a slightly silkier texture, while cornstarch creates a creamier consistency.

How to Enjoy a Peaceful and Fulfilling Old Age

 How to Enjoy a Peaceful and Fulfilling Old Age

Aging is a natural process that no one can escape. From both a scientific perspective and the teachings of Buddhism, old age is not something to fear but rather an inevitable stage in the cycle of birth, aging, illness, and death.  The quality of life in our later years depends not merely on how long we live, but on how well we prepare ourselves for that stage throughout our lives.

During our younger years, many of us devote most of our time to pursuing wealth, social status, and material success.  However, if we focus exclusively on external achievements while neglecting our physical health, mental well-being, and spiritual development, we are likely to encounter greater challenges as we grow older.  Research in gerontology consistently shows that quality of life among older adults is influenced by several interconnected factors, including physical health, psychological well-being, social relationships, and the ability to live independently.

From the perspective of Buddhist philosophy, genuine happiness does not arise from possession but from mastering one's own mind.  All material things are impermanent – they arise, change, and eventually disappear.  Therefore, if we place all our happiness in wealth or expect our children to care for us throughout our lives, we may experience disappointment when reality unfolds differently.

This does not diminish the importance of family bonds.  Children are a precious source of love and support, yet they also have their own responsibilities, careers, and families.  As we age, maintaining the ability to care for ourselves allows us to preserve our independence, dignity, and inner peace.  Buddhism emphasizes self-reliance, teaching that each individual is ultimately responsible for his or her own happiness and way of living.

One of the most essential elements of healthy aging is mental well-being.  A growing body of scientific evidence suggests that individuals who maintain an optimistic outlook, regulate their emotions effectively, and find meaning in life tend to live longer, experience lower rates of chronic disease, and recover more successfully from illness.  A positive state of mind not only reduces psychological stress but also benefits immune function, sleep quality, and cognitive performance.

In Buddhism, inner peace does not mean living without difficulties; rather, it is the ability to face life's changes with equanimity.  Anxiety, loss, illness, and hardship inevitably arise, yet they also pass away according to the universal law of impermanence.  When we deeply understand this truth, we become less resistant to reality and more capable of accepting and adapting to change.  The practice of mindfulness enables us to live fully in the present moment without becoming trapped by regrets about the past or worries about the future.

Alongside mental well-being, physical health provides the foundation for a fulfilling life in old age.  Aging naturally reduces muscle mass, bone density, metabolic efficiency, and the functional capacity of many organs.  Mild memory decline, lighter sleep, and slower reaction times are all common physiological changes associated with aging.  Understanding these normal changes helps older adults respond with acceptance rather than unnecessary anxiety and encourages them to adopt healthier lifestyles.

A balanced diet plays a vital role in healthy aging. Greater emphasis should be placed on vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, and healthy fats while reducing excessive sugar, salt, and fatty meats.  Combined with regular physical activity, such as walking, gentle stretching, yoga, tai chi, or meditation, these habits contribute to cardiovascular health, muscular strength, balance, and overall vitality.

Equally important is maintaining meaningful social connections.  Many developed countries have established community centers where older adults can gather, learn new skills, participate in recreational activities, and share their life experiences.  Such social engagement has been shown to reduce loneliness, lower the risk of depression, and enhance overall well-being.  If one's spouse remains a companion in later life, it is a great blessing.  If not, building friendships with people who share similar interests and values can provide companionship and emotional support during the years ahead.

Buddhist teachings also emphasize gratitude and compassion.  When we let go of resentment and unrealistic expectations of others, including our own children, the mind becomes lighter and more peaceful.  Rather than feeling hurt because family members are occupied with their own lives, older adults can find joy in life's simple moments: a quiet morning, a meaningful book, a heartfelt conversation, or a few minutes of mindful meditation.  These seemingly small moments often become the true foundation of a deeply satisfying life.

Old age need not be viewed as the sunset of life. Instead, it can be understood as another sunrise – a stage in which we live more slowly, understand ourselves more deeply, and appreciate each passing moment with greater wisdom.  While aging itself is beyond our control, our attitude toward aging remains entirely within our power to choose.

When we care for our bodies, cultivate our minds, maintain an optimistic spirit, and embrace the Buddhist understanding of impermanence, old age ceases to be a burden.  Instead, it becomes a period characterized by peace, wisdom, resilience, and fulfillment.  In this way, modern scientific understanding and the timeless wisdom of the Buddha converge on the same profound truth: authentic happiness begins with a mind that is calm, balanced, and free.

Tofu with Mushroom and Onion Sauce

 You Tofu with Mushroom and Onion Sauce

If you're a vegetarian like me, this tofu with mushroom and onion sauce is sure to become one of your favorites.  The recipe is simple, the ingredients are easy to find, and the result is surprisingly flavorful. Even those who don't usually eat vegetarian meals may find themselves asking for a second helping.

 

Ingredients:

16 oz. (450 g) firm tofu

5 oz. (140 g) mushrooms of your choice, stems removed

½ white onion, diced

3 green onions, chopped (white and green parts separated if preferred)

2 garlic cloves, minced

2 tbsp cooking oil

Sauce 15 ounces

1 cup water

2 tbsp soy sauce

1 tbsp oyster sauce (use vegetarian oyster sauce if desired)

1 tsp sugar

1 tsp mushroom seasoning powder

¼ tsp salt

1 tbsp cornstarch

Directions:

Slice the tofu into thin pieces and pat dry with paper towels.

In a small bowl, whisk together the water, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, mushroom seasoning powder, salt, and cornstarch until smooth.  Set aside.

Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat.   Fry the tofu until golden brown on both sides, then remove and set aside.

In the same pan, sauté the garlic and diced onion until fragrant.  Add the mushrooms and cook for 2-3 minutes, until they begin to soften.

Return the tofu to the pan and pour in the prepared sauce.  Bring to a gentle boil.

Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer until the sauce thickens and coats the tofu and mushrooms.

Stir in the chopped green onions, adjust the seasoning to taste, and remove from the heat.

 

Serve hot with steamed rice and enjoy!