Quick Shrimp Floss (Tôm Chấy Nhanh)

Quick Shrimp Floss (Tôm Chấy Nhanh) Delicate, savory, and rich with umami, shrimp floss (tôm chấy) is a beloved Vietnamese garnish that elevates everything from bánh hỏi and bánh nậm to a humble bowl of rice is one version utilizes pre-cooked shrimp—readily available in U.S. markets—to recreate the signature flavor and texture with minimal effort.  Whether you’re craving a nostalgic touch or adding Vietnamese flair to weeknight meals, this recipe delivers tradition with a twist.  Shrimp floss, or tôm chấy, holds a quiet yet meaningful place in Vietnamese culinary tradition, especially as part of the broader family of chà bông (meat floss), which includes variations made from pork, chicken, and fish.

Ingredients:

1 lb. cooked shrimp

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tbsp onion powder

1 shallot, finely minced

1 tsp sugar

1 tsp fish sauce

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tbsp oil

Directions:

Grinding the shrimp:

Use a meat grinder or food processor to finely grind the cooked shrimp. (Traditional methods use a mortar and pestle for texture, but this shortcut saves time.)

Cooking the shrimp floss:

Heat oil in a pan over low heat.  Add the shrimp mixture along with the minced shallot, garlic powder, onion powder, sugar, fish sauce, salt, and pepper.

Stirring continuously:

Cook on low heat, stirring frequently, until the shrimp dries out and becomes fluffy and separated.  Adjust seasoning to your taste.

Cooling and storing:

Let the shrimp floss cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight jar and refrigerate for longer shelf life.

Enjoy your fragrant, savory shrimp floss with rice, noodles, or your favorite Vietnamese snacks!

 

Tips:

Here's how it fits into the cultural tapestry:

 Preservation Meets Ingenuity

• Shrimp floss originated as a practical solution for preserving seafood in Vietnam’s coastal regions, where shrimp is abundant.
• Drying and shredding shrimp into floss enabled families to store protein for more extended periods, especially in rural areas without access to refrigeration.

 Everyday Comfort Food

• It’s commonly sprinkled over steamed rice, sticky rice (xôi), congee, or bánh mì, adding savory depth and texture.
• Its dry, fluffy texture and umami-rich flavor make it a comforting, shelf-stable topping—ideal for busy households and school lunches.

 Culinary Heritage & Family Tradition

• The process of making shrimp floss is often passed down through generations, with each family adding its twist—whether it's in seasoning, texture, or drying method.
• It’s a symbol of resourcefulness and care, often made in large batches and shared among relatives.

 Cultural Identity & Diaspora

• For Vietnamese communities abroad, shrimp floss evokes nostalgia and connection to home.  It’s a taste of tradition that travels well and adapts easily to modern kitchens.
• Using pre-cooked shrimp, as in this recipe, reflects how Vietnamese cuisine evolves while preserving its soul.

A Toast to Flavor and Simplicity

This roasted sesame seed dressing is a celebration of balance, where nutty depth meets bright citrus and a whisper of umami. Inspired by Japanese flavors and crafted with pantry-friendly ingredients, it’s the kind of dressing that turns a simple salad into a crave-worthy dish.  The honey adds a gentle sweetness, lime juice brings a refreshing tang, and roasted sesame seeds lend a satisfying crunch and aroma.  Whether you're drizzling it over crisp greens, roasted vegetables, or using it as a glaze for baked fish or chicken, this versatile dressing is your shortcut to a meal that feels both nourishing and indulgent.

Ingredients:

1/4 cup honey

1/4 cup Mayonnaise ( I use the Japanese brand)

1/4 cup lime juice

1/4 cup roasted sesame seeds

1 tbsp soy sauce

1 tsp mushroom seasoning

 

Directions:

Place all the ingredients in a blender or small food processor and blend well.

Pour into a glass jar with a lid and refrigerate.

💡 Tip for Using It:

For maximum flavor, try marinating proteins like tofu, salmon, or chicken in this dressing for 30 minutes before baking or grilling. The sesame seeds caramelize beautifully, creating a golden crust that’s packed with flavor.  Bonus: it doubles as a dipping sauce for spring rolls or a drizzle over grain bowls!

🌟 Creative Uses for Roasted Sesame Seed Dressing:

1. Grain Bowl Booster

Drizzle over quinoa, brown rice, or farro bowls topped with roasted veggies, avocado, and a soft-boiled egg.  The dressing adds richness and a pop of flavor that ties everything together.

2. Noodle Salad Companion

Toss with chilled soba, rice noodles, or even spaghetti for a quick sesame noodle salad.  Add shredded carrots, cucumber, and scallions for crunch.

3. Savory Toast Upgrade

Spread a thin layer on avocado toast or use it as a base for a savory breakfast toast with eggs and microgreens.

4. Roasted Veggie Glaze

Brush onto roasted carrots, sweet potatoes, or Brussels sprouts during the last few minutes of baking.  The honey and sesame caramelize beautifully.

5. Dumpling Dip

Serve as a dipping sauce for pot stickers, gyozas, or spring rolls. Add a splash of rice vinegar or chili oil for extra zing.

6. Sandwich Spread

Mix with a bit of Greek yogurt or cream cheese and use as a spread for wraps or sandwiches, especially with grilled chicken or tofu.

7. Savory Oatmeal Topping

For a bold breakfast twist, drizzle over savory oats topped with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and a poached egg.

Garlic Paste

Forget the store-bought shortcuts—this homemade garlic paste is a celebration of simple ingredients and timeless flavor.  Made with golden garlic slowly simmered in olive oil and finished with butter and spices, it's the kind of kitchen essential that quietly transforms everyday cooking.  Whether you're whipping up a comforting stew or adding punch to a weeknight pasta, this versatile paste becomes your behind-the-scenes flavor hero.  With just a jar of this on hand, dinner suddenly feels easier... and a little more delicious.

 

Ingredients:

2 cups fresh garlic, peeled

2 cups olive oil

1 stick of butter

Seasoning with salt, pepper, and chili flakes

 

Directions:

Place garlic with oil in a nonstick pan.  Cook on a low heat for 20 minutes or until the garlic turns brown.  Add butter and seasoning.

Let it cool off and blend in the food processor until smooth.

 

Store in the glass jar with a lid and refrigerate.

And here are some flavorful recipes where your garlic paste can shine:

🍝 Garlic Butter Spaghetti – Toss cooked pasta with garlic paste, a splash of pasta water, and grated Parmesan.  Finish with chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon.

🍗 Garlic Roasted Chicken Thighs – Rub garlic paste under the skin of chicken thighs along with rosemary and paprika before roasting for crispy, aromatic results.

🍲 Slow-Cooked Lentil Soup – Add a spoonful of garlic paste to your soup base.  It deepens the flavor as it simmers—perfect for use in an Instant Pot or slow cooker.

🥖 Garlic Bread Spread – Mix garlic paste with softened butter and fresh herbs, then spread over sliced baguette and broil until golden.

🌿 Garlic Hummus – Blend a spoonful of garlic paste into your chickpeas, tahini, and lemon juice for a luxurious twist on classic hummus.

Chicken Ragu - Instant Pot Edition

Long before the hum of an Instant Pot became the soundtrack of weeknight dinners, this comforting dish carried its warmth across continents.  “Ragu"—or "Lagu" as lovingly pronounced in Vietnamese kitchens—echoes French culinary roots yet finds its soul in Vietnam, where a resourceful chef once stewed whole chicken, potatoes, and carrots into something magical.  Over time, this homey classic evolved in both spirit and practicality.

In my kitchen, I reach for chicken thighs—not just for their rich, tender bite, but because they’re budget-friendly and a breeze to prep.  A simple marinade—shallot, garlic, ginger, and the unmistakable depth of fish sauce—forms the fragrant backbone. The rest?  A medley of humble spices is already waiting in your cupboard, eager to be revived.

Now, enter modernity: the Instant Pot.  This kitchen marvel collapses hours into minutes without compromising comfort or flavor.  So let’s revive tradition with a modern twist—bringing nostalgia, thrift, and ease into one pot and onto your plate.

 

Ingredients:

• 2 or 3 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
• 1 lb. russet potatoes, peeled and cut into large chunks
• 2 carrots, peeled and cut into thick slices
• 1 large white onion, sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 small shallots, minced
• 1 tsp minced ginger
• 12 oz. coconut water
• 10 oz. tomato sauce

Spice Seasoning:

• 1 tbsp fish sauce
• 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (or one small stick of cinnamon)

Garnish ingredients:

• Chopped green onion
• Fresh herbs such as basil or cilantro

Directions:

1.    Sautéing the aromatics:

2.    Set your Instant Pot to Sauté mode and add a small amount of oil.  Once the pot is hot, add the minced shallots, garlic, and ginger.  Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

3.    Browning the chicken (optional, but flavorful):

4.    Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down.  Sear for 3–4 minutes until lightly browned.  This step adds depth to the broth but can be skipped for a lighter version.

5.    Pour in just enough coconut water and tomato sauce to cover the chicken (do not overfill).  Stir gently to combine.

6.    Pressure cooking the chicken:

7.    Seal the lid.  Set to Pressure Cook on High Pressure for 4 minutes.

8.    While waiting, preparing the vegetables:

9.    While the chicken is pressure cooking, lightly pan-fry the potato and carrot chunks in a skillet until golden on the outside.  This helps them hold their shape and enhances flavor.

10.                       Natural releasing and adding vegetables:

11.                       Once the 4-minute pressure cook ends, allow a natural release for 10 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.

12.                       Canceling any active mode: Open the lid, then add the pan-fried potatoes and carrots, along with the sliced onion, fish sauce, and a touch more coconut water or broth if needed.

13.                       Simmering to finish:

14.                       Switch the Instant Pot back to Sauté mode and simmer for an additional 5–8 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors are well combined.  Adjust seasoning with salt, sugar, or a splash of fish sauce to taste. 

Banana chocolate muffins

When cravings strike and time stretches generously, banana chocolate muffins are my easy-bake bliss.  This recipe leans into pantry staples—ripe bananas, a splash of oil, and just enough chocolate to sweeten the mood.  With self-rising flour in play (yes, the kind you can whip up yourself), these muffins come together with little fuss and plenty of flavor.  They’re proof that a cozy kitchen, a ripe banana, and a humble muffin tin are sometimes all you need.

Ingredients:

1 cup self-rising

1 tbsp cocoa powder

1/2 cup sugar

1 egg

1 ripened banana

1/4 cup chocolate chips

1/4 cup milk

1/3 cup oil

1 tsp vanilla

1/2 tsp cinnamon powder

 

Directions:

Preheating & Prep: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).  Line a medium-sized muffin pan with 6 paper liners.

Mixing Wet Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, mash the ripened banana until smooth.  Add the egg, vanilla, milk, oil, and sugar. Stir until well combined.

Combining Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the self-rising flour, cocoa powder, and cinnamon to evenly distribute.

Making the Batter: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring just until the batter comes together.  Fold in the chocolate chips.

Filling the Pan: Divide the batter evenly among the muffin liners, filling each about ¾ full.

Baking: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Serving Suggestion:

Serve these warm muffins with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of honey for extra comfort.  They pair perfectly with a cup of chai or coffee on slow mornings, and make thoughtful little gifts wrapped in parchment and twine.  For a touch of indulgence, warm slightly and top with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream—instant dessert magic.

 

Storytelling Twist:

Banana chocolate muffins may sound modern, but they carry echoes of resourceful home baking traditions across cultures.  From Caribbean kitchens where bananas are used to their fullest, to Japanese cafés where cocoa meets seasonal fruit in minimalist charm, this muffin stands at the crossroads of nostalgia and innovation.  It’s not just a snack—it’s a tiny tribute to universal comfort.

Discovering the Hidden Power of Fruit Peels and Natural Remedies

 Many people throw away fruit peels without knowing that they often contain powerful medicinal properties. Traditional medicine and modern research alike have shown that these “natural leftovers” can offer surprising health benefits—from detoxification to disease prevention.

1. Watermelon Rind

Watermelon rind is more than just waste—it's a natural cooling agent.  In Eastern medicine, it's used to clear heat, detoxify the body, and even lower blood pressure.  It can help with anemia, sore throat, bladder inflammation, liver cirrhosis, and kidney issues.

2. Winter Melon Peel

This peel has cooling properties and is used to relieve symptoms of kidney, lung, and heart-related swelling, as well as bloating and urinary difficulty.  Boiling the peel and using it as a foot soak can also help treat foot odor.

3. Cucumber Skin

Cucumber peel contains chlorogenic acid and caffeic acid, which have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects.  It also stimulates white blood cells, making it useful for people with frequent sore throats.

4. Banana Peel

Banana peels contain active compounds that fight fungal and bacterial infections.  They are effective in treating itchy skin caused by fungal infections, promoting smooth digestion, and even preventing cracked skin in cold weather.  Ground banana peel with ginger juice is also used for pain relief and inflammation.  Dried and powdered banana peel can be used in natural beauty treatments.

5. Apple Peel

Apple peel acts as an astringent and is used in traditional remedies for acid reflux and excess mucus.  You can brew it as a tea to help digestive health and support respiratory wellness.

6. Pear Peel

Pear peel has a cooling, sour nature, known for clearing heat from the lungs and heart.  A tea made from pear peel helps soothe coughs with phlegm, and crushed fresh peel can be applied to ulcers or skin wounds to reduce swelling and promote healing.

7. Pomelo Peel

Pomelo peel can help improve circulation, relieve phlegm and cough, ease asthma, and support digestion.  It’s often used in traditional remedies for respiratory conditions.

8. Orange Peel

Rich in essential oils and bioactive compounds, orange peel can stimulate digestion, relieve bloating, reduce phlegm, and lower blood pressure.  It contains glycosides that help open coronary arteries, enhancing blood flow.  Dried and shredded orange peel can be brewed into a refreshing, aromatic tea that boosts energy and aids mental clarity.

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The Powerful Benefits of Grapes

Grapes are not just a delicious snack—they’re a powerhouse of nutrients and antioxidants, offering a wide range of benefits for immunity, skin, heart health, and even detoxification.

Immunity & Anti-Aging

100g of grapes provides about 71 calories, 10-12g of easily absorbed sugars, and 11mg of vitamin C—about 18% of the daily need. They’re easy to digest, hydrating, and rich in polyphenols, which are powerful antioxidants that protect cells from free radicals, helping slow down aging, reduce wrinkles, and boost immune defense.

Grape Seeds – Don’t Discard Them!

Grape seeds are rich in resveratrol, a compound similar to human estrogen, which helps reduce cholesterol and protect blood vessels.  This explains why red wine (in moderation) is beneficial for heart health.

The extract from grape seeds contains proanthocyanidins, which:

·         Are stronger antioxidants than vitamins C and E.

·         Inhibit various types of cancer cells (breast, lung, stomach, leukemia).

·         Support healthy cells and boost immunity.

·         Help fight viruses like herpes and polio.

Grape seed oil is also rich in linoleic acid, which supports male reproductive health and cardiovascular protection, while reducing blood clot formation.

Grape Skin – A Natural Shield

Grape skins have potent antibacterial properties and are rich in resveratrol—7 times more powerful than vitamin E as an antioxidant.  Since resveratrol resists digestion and circulates through the body, it provides systemic protection. So, when you eat grapes, keep the skin on—just be sure to wash them thoroughly.

Grape Juice

A glass of fresh dark grape juice supports heart function, reduces oxidative stress, and improves blood flow. Compared to juices from grapefruit, orange, tomato, or apple, red grape juice has triple the antioxidant activity.

Detoxifying Effect

Grapes are a natural detoxifier. They:

·         Cleanse the liver of harmful toxins.

·         Aid blood regeneration.

·         Are rich in potassium, fiber, and water, supporting kidney and digestive function.

Try to include grapes in your diet once a week to help your body naturally cleanse and recharge.

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8 Vegetables with Cancer-Fighting Power

Vegetables are not only nutritious—they're also powerful natural defenses against cancer.  Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and flavonoids, they help strengthen immunity, suppress cancer cell growth, and reduce inflammation.

Cruciferous Vegetables

Vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts are known to help prevent lung cancer.  Though they can't negate the risks of smoking, they are protective foods for those who quit or avoid tobacco.

Seaweed

Rich in iodine, vitamin E, and fiber, seaweed is considered a top food for breast cancer prevention.  Iodine deficiency has been linked to breast cancer, making seaweed a powerful addition to the diet.

Celery and Lemongrass

These herbs are rich in fiber and help cleanse the digestive tract, promoting the elimination of toxins and supporting colon cancer prevention.  Garlic and sweet potatoes are also powerful allies against colon cancer.

Chives (Garlic Chives)

In traditional medicine, chives warm the kidneys and strengthen vitality.  Modern studies show they protect cells against free radicals, support immunity, and help prevent cellular mutations that may lead to cancer.

Garlic

Garlic boosts immunity, fights bacteria in the stomach, and reduces the formation of harmful nitrates.  It also contains selenium and other anticancer agents that help prevent stomach and esophageal cancer.

Asparagus

The U.S. National Cancer Institute recognizes asparagus for its high glutathione content, a key antioxidant that supports detoxification and cancer prevention, including lymphatic, bladder, and skin cancers.

Soybeans

Soy-based products like tofu and soy milk contain isoflavones and lignins—plant compounds with antioxidant effects.  They inhibit cancer cell division and slow tumor growth, especially for cervical and breast cancers.

Mushrooms

Mushrooms support the immune system and block cancer-causing substances.  Rich in polysaccharides, they help the body resist tumors and are particularly beneficial for those fighting liver cancer, colon cancer, and lymphoma.