Recipes

Recipes

Sautéed Butternut Squash with Kale and Garlic – A Simple Fall Delight

Hey there, friends! As the leaves start to turn and that crisp autumn air settles in, I can’t help but feel a sense of comfort and excitement in the kitchen. One of my go-to fall recipes is Sautéed Butternut Squash with Kale and Garlic. It’s a simple dish that celebrates all the amazing flavors of the season, and trust me, it’s both delicious and healthy! Why You’ll Love This Recipe Picture this: sweet, tender butternut squash, vibrant garden-fresh kale, and a kick of garlic all coming together in one pan. It’s the kind of dish that warms you up from the inside out. Whether you’re looking for a side to accompany your main course or a light meal on its own, this recipe has got you covered. All About Butternut Squash Let’s talk about butternut squash for a minute. This beautiful gourd is a fall superstar, and I’m obsessed with it! Not only is it sweet and nutty, but it’s also packed with nutrients. Nutritional Benefits Butternut squash is like a little health treasure chest. It’s loaded with: Culinary Versatility What I adore about butternut squash is its versatility. You can roast it, mash it, puree it into soups, or sauté it like we’re doing today. It plays well with both savory and sweet dishes, which makes it a staple in my kitchen during the fall. Selecting and Storing When you’re picking out a butternut squash, look for one that feels heavy for its size and has a nice, smooth skin. I like to avoid any with soft spots. You can keep a whole squash in a cool, dry place for weeks, but once you cut it, be sure to wrap it up and pop it in the fridge. Cutting the Butternut Squash Now, let’s tackle the not-so-fun part: cutting the butternut squash. It can seem a bit intimidating, but with the right approach, it’s a breeze! Here’s how I do it: And there you have it! With a little practice, cutting butternut squash becomes much easier, and it’s totally worth it for this delicious dish. Preparing the Kale Before diving into cooking, let’s prep our kale! Fresh kale adds a beautiful color and tons of nutrients to the dish. Here’s how I like to prepare it: Now that your kale is prepped and your squash is ready, you’re all set to start cooking! Why It’s a Great Choice Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s also a nutritional powerhouse! Butternut squash gives you those vital vitamins, and kale adds even more antioxidants and fiber. Plus, garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties, which is a bonus during the chilly months. Conclusion So, this fall, why not give this Sautéed Butternut Squash Recipe a try? It’s simple, healthy, and oh-so-delicious. Whether you’re hosting friends for dinner or just treating yourself to something comforting at home, I promise this dish will not disappoint. And if you’re looking for more seasonal inspiration, check out other fall side dishes such as “Cozy Maple-Roasted Delicata Squash and Caramelized Onions.” or watch the short YouTube video for the recipe! Happy cooking, and let me know how it turns out for you! 🍂🥬🎃

crispy tilapia fillets
Recipes

Crispy Tilapia with Magic Sauce: Quick Recipe in 20 Minutes

Let’s be real—some days, we just want to make something quick, easy, and still super satisfying. That’s where this Crispy Tilapia with Magic Sauce comes in. It’s one of those dishes that looks and tastes like you’ve spent ages in the kitchen, but in reality, you’ll have it ready in just 20 minutes. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something fast yet flavorful. Why I Love This Recipe Honestly, this recipe has been a lifesaver for me more than once. I love tilapia because it cooks so quickly, and with just a few basic pantry ingredients, you can whip up the most delicious sauce that takes the flavor to another level. Plus, who doesn’t love crispy fish? It’s golden, crunchy, and super satisfying. The Secret to My Crispy Tilapia One trick that really makes this recipe stand out is the Vinh Thuan Bot Chien Gion (Crisp Fried Powder Mix). I’ve tried several ways to coat fish, but this mix is a game-changer. It creates a super light yet crunchy crust on the tilapia without being too thick or greasy. The best part? You don’t even need to season the powder mix or the fish. The mix itself creates the perfect crisp, and once you pair it with the magic sauce, it all balances out beautifully. The sauce will handle the flavor, so there’s no need for any extra seasoning—just coat and fry! Putting It All Together Here’s the fun part—drizzling that magic sauce over the crispy tilapia. You can serve it over rice, with a side salad, or even in tacos if you’re feeling adventurous. My family loves it with some steamed veggies on the side for a balanced meal. This recipe is seriously a go-to for me because it’s just so easy. No complicated steps, no fancy ingredients—just a few simple things you probably already have in your kitchen. And in less than half an hour, you’ve got a meal that feels special. Why You Should Try It If you’re like me, you don’t always have a ton of time to spend cooking, but you still want to make something that tastes amazing. This Crispy Tilapia with Magic Sauce ticks all the boxes. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s bursting with flavor. Plus, that satisfying crunch of the fish combined with the sweet and spicy sauce? Total winner. And don’t forget, the Vinh Thuan Bot Chien Gion powder mix makes all the difference. No need to fuss with seasoning—the sauce will balance out all the flavors perfectly.

Recipes

Cozy Maple-Roasted Delicata Squash and Caramelized Onions: A Taste of Fall in Every Bite

As the leaves begin to turn and the air gets that familiar crispness, I love to bring the warmth of the season into my kitchen. This maple-roasted delicata squash with onion is one of my favorite fall dishes. It’s simple yet packed with flavor, capturing everything I love about autumn. Delicata Squash: The Sweet and Creamy Star of Fall Delicata squash is a winter variety known for its unique, creamy texture and sweet, buttery flavor. Its distinctive striped skin, often in shades of yellow and green, makes it visually appealing, while its small size and easy-to-handle shape make it perfect for roasting or stuffing. Unlike many other squash varieties, delicata has a thin skin that’s edible, adding to its appeal. Packed with vitamins and minerals, it’s not only delicious but also a nutritious addition to autumn dishes, making it a favorite for seasonal recipes. The sweet, tender flesh of the delicata squash pairs beautifully with the caramelized onions, creating a lovely balance that warms the soul. Drizzling it with pure maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness that reminds me of cozy weekends spent sipping hot cider. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or a quiet dinner at home. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate the harvest and savor the season’s bounty. Simple, Seasonal, and So Satisfying What I love most about this dish—besides its incredible flavor—is how easy it is to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you can have something that feels gourmet but comes together in under an hour. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something wholesome, but it also shines as a side dish for larger family gatherings or holiday feasts. The warm, comforting flavors of maple, squash, and onion bring a sense of nostalgia and celebration, making it an ideal way to celebrate the season’s bounty. Nutritional Benefits of this Seasonal Dish Beyond the cozy flavors, this dish is packed with nutrients. Delicata squash is a great source of dietary fiber, vitamins A and C, and potassium. Onions bring antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties to the table, while maple syrup, in moderation, provides a natural source of energy. It’s a comfort food dish that you can feel good about enjoying, knowing you’re fueling your body with wholesome ingredients. Let’s Celebrate the Season! Whether you’re gathering with loved ones or enjoying a quiet evening in, this maple-roasted delicata squash and onion is the perfect way to bring the essence of fall into your home. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the natural flavors of the season to shine through, creating a dish that’s both comforting and delicious. I hope you love this recipe as much as I do! Let me know in the comments if you tried it, and feel free to share your own favorite fall flavors. I’d love to hear how you bring the warmth of the season into your kitchen.

Recipes

Cherry Tomato, Basil, Jujube, and Fried Egg Toast: Fresh From My Garden to the Plate

Breakfast is always better when it comes straight from the garden. On mornings when I crave something fresh, vibrant, and full of flavor, I turn to this simple yet unforgettable Cherry Tomato, Basil, Jujube, and Fried Egg Toast. There’s something deeply satisfying about using ingredients I’ve grown myself, like the juicy cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, and sweet jujubes from my garden. Each bite is a reminder of the love and care that went into growing those plants, making this toast not just a meal, but an experience. The Inspiration This recipe came together on a lazy weekend morning when I was standing in front of my garden, admiring how the cherry tomatoes were ripening faster than I could use them. I also had fresh basil that was begging to be picked, and the jujube tree had produced these plump, sweet fruits that I’d never thought to pair with toast. The idea struck me—why not combine everything from my garden into a single, flavorful bite? I’ve always loved the combination of fresh, herbaceous basil and the sweet burst of cherry tomatoes, but adding jujube slices brought a whole new twist. Their chewy, honeyed texture balanced perfectly with the savory fried egg. It was a garden-to-table moment that made my morning feel extra special. Ingredients Step-by-Step 1. Toast the Bread Start by toasting your favorite bread until it’s golden and crispy on the outside, but still soft enough to hold the toppings. 2. Fry the Eggs In the same pan, fry your eggs to perfection. I love leaving the yolk a little runny because it becomes a natural sauce for the toast. Season with salt and pepper. 4. Assemble Your Toast Spread a generous layer of cream cheese over the toast, then arrange the sliced tomatoes and jujubes on top. Sprinkle the chopped basil for a burst of fresh flavor, and finish by placing a perfectly fried egg on each slice. 5. Final Touches Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste. If you want to elevate the dish even more, drizzle a little balsamic glaze and chili flake over the toast. The tanginess will tie everything together beautifully. Why I Love This Dish There’s nothing quite like eating a meal where most of the ingredients came from my own garden. The cherry tomatoes are incredibly sweet, the basil adds that fragrant, earthy note, and the jujubes—well, they bring a touch of uniqueness that I love sharing with friends and family. It’s a toast that feels light yet indulgent, with every bite packed with flavor. Plus, the simplicity of this dish makes it perfect for a busy morning or a relaxing weekend breakfast. Whether you’re a gardening enthusiast like me or just someone who loves fresh, vibrant flavors, this Cherry Tomato, Basil, Jujube, and Fried Egg Toast is sure to become a favorite!

Recipes

Savory Tomato-Garlic Stew with Succulent Prawns

This recipe was taken from Donna Hay’s cookbook, Off The Shelf. It’s one of those dishes that’s perfect for a cozy day in, but since I usually cook for one, I made a few tweaks to better suit my needs and preferences. Personal Touches: To start, I halved the original recipe because, let’s be honest, the full portion is a bit too much for me. I also swapped out the canned tomatoes and vegetable broth for no-salt-added versions to keep things on the healthier side. Reducing sodium is a simple way to make a dish a bit better for you without sacrificing flavor. I didn’t have white wine on hand, which the original recipe calls for, so I used white wine vinegar instead. It still adds a lovely acidity, though if you prefer that slightly sweet note from the wine, definitely go for it if you have it in your pantry. A sprinkle of chili flakes adds just the right amount of kick for those of us who like a bit of heat. This stew has quickly become one of my go-to meals. It’s perfect on a chilly day, but honestly, it’s great any time you want something comforting and hearty. Nutrition Facts: Each serving has about 118 kcal, 3 g fat, 2.5 g saturated fat, 8 g carbohydrates, and 14 g protein. It’s a balanced and filling option that won’t weigh you down. Cooking Tip: If you’re using raw prawns, you’ll need around 450-500 g of unshelled prawns to get 250 g peeled. For an extra burst of flavor, try adding mussels to the stew. And don’t forget to serve it with some toasted bread or rolls to soak up all that delicious broth. Recipe Details: Ingredients: Directions: I hope you enjoy this stew as much as I do. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for those days when you want something warm and comforting. Reference: Nutrient composition was analyzed using Food Processor (v10.12.0.0)

Recipes

Exploring the Simple and Comforting Vietnamese Round Bottle Gourd Gourd

There’s something magical about discovering a new ingredient that feels like it’s been hiding in plain sight. For me, that ingredient was the round bottle gourd. This unique vegetable, with its smooth, green exterior and subtly sweet flavor, has a special place in Vietnamese cuisine. Today, I want to share my love for this gourd and guide you through making a comforting Vietnamese round-bottle gourd soup that’s as heartwarming as it is delicious. Meet the Round Bottle Gourd Have you ever come across a vegetable that makes you stop and wonder, “What is that?” For me, that moment happened when I visited my friend’s garden and saw the round bottle gourd. Known as “bầu” in Vietnamese, this gourd is like a green, slightly squat cousin of the more familiar zucchini. It’s crisp, mildly sweet, and incredibly versatile—perfect for soups, stir-fries, or even just a quick sauté. Why I Love Round Bottle Gourd Besides its charming appearance and delicate flavor, the round bottle gourd is packed with health benefits. It’s low in calories, high in water, and loaded with vitamins and minerals. It’s the kind of ingredient that makes you feel good about what you’re eating without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re on a health kick or just looking for something new to try, this gourd is a great choice. My Favorite Vietnamese Round Bottle Gourd Soup One of the best ways to enjoy round bottle gourd is in a traditional Vietnamese soup. This dish has become a comforting staple in many Vietnamese kitchens, and I’m excited to share it with you. The soup is very quick and simple to make (<15 minutes) yet satisfying, and it captures the essence of Vietnamese home cooking. Ingredients Instructions See my tiktok Tips and Variations Why This Soup Matters For me, this round bottle gourd soup is more than just a meal; it’s a connection to Vietnamese culinary traditions and a reminder of the joy of cooking. It’s a dish that’s perfect for a cozy evening or when you need a little comfort. Sharing it with friends and family always brings a smile to my face. I hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy the subtle sweetness and comforting flavors of this traditional Vietnamese soup. If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turns out! Share your thoughts, variations, or any fun twists you add to the recipe. Happy cooking, and here’s to new culinary adventures! Check out my TikTok for a step-by-step cooking video!

Recipes

Sweet-Spiced Carrot Muffin Snack for a Fall Day

These sweet-spiced carrot muffins are a real treat! They’re not just delicious but also packed with nutrition, making them a perfect on-the-go snack. They are a perfect snack to eat with a warm cup of tea on a cool Falls day. Here’s a little guide to help you bake them to perfection. Nutrition facts: Yield: 18 muffinsServing Size: 1 muffin These muffins are also a good source of vitamin A from the carrots! They’re the perfect snacks to microwave when you’re on the run. Cooking tips: For a softer raisin, combine ½ cup (125 ml) boiling water and the raisins and let stand for 5 minutes. Drain, discard the liquid, and add the raisins to the batter.

Recipes

A Taste of Home: Vietnamese Malabar Spinach Soup

Growing up in Vietnam, I have vivid memories of the comforting and simple dishes that filled our table. Among them, Malabar spinach soup, or Canh Rau Mồng Tơi, holds a special place in my heart. Vietnamese people often enjoy this soup on hot days, as it is believed to help cool down the body’s temperature. This is a very simple dish but you can find it often in vietnameses’ meals. What is Malabar Spinach? Malabar spinach, known as Rau Mồng Tơi in Vietnamese, is a leafy green that might surprise you with its versatility. Despite its name, it’s not related to traditional spinach. Instead, it’s a succulent green with heart-shaped leaves that thrives in the warm, tropical climate of Vietnam. Its ability to grow quickly and robustly makes it a staple in many Vietnamese gardens and kitchens. Health Benefits of Malabar Spinach As a Vietnamese, I’ve always appreciated how our traditional ingredients not only bring flavor but also offer numerous health benefits. Malabar spinach is a powerhouse of nutrients: How to grow Malabar Spinach? Growing Malarbar spinach is actually very simple. It can be easily propagante from cuttings. You can first buy it from Asian grocery stores. Then, select healthy, non-flowering stems about 6-8 inches long, and cut just below a node. Remove the lower leaves and either place the cuttings in water or directly into moist soil. In water, roots should develop within 1-2 weeks. For soil propagation, ensure the node is buried, keep the soil moist, and cover the pot with plastic to maintain humidity. Once roots form, transplant to a sunny spot with well-draining soil, provide support for the vines, and water regularly. Depend on the climate, Malabar spinach will most likely need daily watering or deely watering once or twice a week. My Favorite Recipe: Vietnamese Malabar Spinach Soup One of my favorite ways to enjoy Malabar spinach is in a simple yet delicious Vietnamese soup. It’s a dish that brings warmth and comfort, reminiscent of family meals. Here’s how I make it: Ingredients: Instructions: Tips for Enjoying Malabar Spinach Soup Conclusion For me, Vietnamese Malabar spinach soup is more than just a dish; it’s a taste of home and a reminder of family gatherings. I hope you find as much joy in this recipe as I do. Give it a try, and let this vibrant, nutritious soup bring a bit of Vietnam to your table.

Recipes

Orange-Glazed Salmon with Sautéed Spinach: Healthy & Flavorful Dinner Idea

Healthy Tip: This dish isn’t just delicious—it’s also a powerhouse of nutrients! Salmon, the star of this recipe, is brimming with heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids that help keep your heart and brain in top shape. Plus, it’s packed with vitamin B12 and vitamin D, giving you a daily dose of these essential vitamins. Nutrition facts: Per serving, 284 kcal, 11 g fat, 1 g saturated fat, 24 g carbohydrate, 4 g fibre, 24 g protein. Number of servings: 4Serving size: approximately 3 oz. (85 g) salmon Ingredients 1 Orange, washed, grated, and juiced (reserve grated orange rind for garnish, grated the orange prior juicing)   2 Tbsp Honey 30 mL 1 Tbsp Brown sugar 15 mL 2 tsp. Canola oil 10 mL ¼ tsp Red pepper flakes 1 ml 12 oz. (340g) Salmon fillets, cut into 4 pieces   8 oz. Fresh spinach, trimmed   1 tsp. Canola oil 5 mL 1 Tbsp Lemon juice 15 mL 1/8 tsp. Freshly-ground black pepper 0.5 mL Directions: Why You’ll Love This Recipe: This orange-glazed salmon with sautéed spinach is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of fresh, vibrant flavors and nutritious ingredients. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress and satisfy. Enjoy every bite of this healthy and flavorful delight!