Food & Drink – Page 16

Blueberries are naturally sweet, tart and nutritious – making them a beloved superfood.

Oregon and Washington are the two top blueberry producing states in the U.S. Because of the ideal growing conditions, these two states offer the best quality fruits that garnered much popularity the world over.

For your information, blueberries are popular for their benefits and are known to be a heart-healthy superfood, highly versatile to be enjoyed as it is – a snack or incorporated into various recipes. They are widely used in baked items, salads, desserts, and smoothies. Visually, the fruits look very appealing and energise any meal.

Blueberries as Main Ingredients in Cooking & Baking

To showcase the versatility of using blueberries in cooking and baking, this time Oregon & Washington Blueberries has collaborated with Chef Bob Kamaruddin Adnin to create 2 recipes using Oregon & Washington Blueberries as one of the main ingredients.

I have tried one of the recipes which is the Bean Sprout Kerabu with Blueberry Sauce. Here’s a short clip of my cooking experience.

Sharing my experience in cooking Bean Sprout Kerabu with Blueberry Sauce

Watch Chef Bob in action through these links:
1) Blueberry Crumble Pie : https://youtu.be/WPfCjdEN1jE
2) Bean Sprout Kerabu with Blueberry Sauce: https://youtu.be/Y6L9xp4WMdU

Rich in Antioxidants and Nutrients

Research findings indicate blueberries contain antioxidants and other nutrients that aid our bodies to stay healthy and may help prevent age-related diseases.

Below are the various blueberries nutrition facts and health benefits:

1. One cup (148g) of blueberries contributes 25% of your daily value of vitamin C, 14.4 milligrams of vitamin C.

Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that acts as an antioxidant stabilizing free radicals, thus helping to prevent cellular damage.
Vitamin C aids in collagen production; assists with iron absorption; and helps heal wounds and keep your gums healthy.
Vitamin C may help support the body’s immune system.

2. One cup (148g) of blueberries contains 3.6g fibre, equivalent to 14% of your daily fibre requirement.

Dietary fibre has been shown to provide numerous health benefits, including improving blood lipid levels, regulating blood glucose, and increasing satiety (makes you feel full longer), which may help with weight loss.

3. Blueberries are rich in antioxidants

Blueberries are believed to have one of the highest antioxidant levels of all common fruits and vegetables.
Antioxidants protect your body from free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can damage your cells and contribute to aging and diseases.

4. One cup (148g) of blueberries contributes 36% of your daily value of vitamin K, 28 micromilligrams of vitamin K.

Low intakes of vitamin K have been linked to a higher risk of bone fracture. However, adequate vitamin K intake improves calcium absorption and may reduce calcium loss.

Blueberries are certified as a heart-healthy food by the American Heart Association and contain natural compounds that help the brain stay strong.

For more information about blueberries from the U.S., do check out the links below:
Oregon Blueberries: https://www.oregonblueberry.com/
Washington Blueberries: https://wablueberries.com/wa-blueberry-commission/

Recipe of Bean Sprout Kerabu with Blueberry Sauce

Ingredients:
300 grams beansprouts, tailed and wash thoroughly
Half cup of chopped or julienned French beans
1 medium shallots or red onion, thinly sliced
2 bird eye chillies, finely chopped

150grams of poached prawns
Springs of basil leaves

Half cup of lightly toasted desiccated coconut

SPICE INGREDIENTS – Pound in pestle and mortar
50 grams shallots or red onion – chopped
2 garlic cloves
1 red chilli
1 tbsp dried shrimp, soak in hot water to soften
Pinch of salt
1 tsp sugar

1 tsp vegetable oil

Blueberry sauce
2 tbsp butter
1 cup of Oregon or Washington fresh blueberries
1 to 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 tbsp orange or lemon juice
1 tbsp honey

Method:
In a mixing bowl, mix the beansprouts, French beans, sliced onions, birds eye chillies and set aside.

Heat the 1 tsp of oil in a frying pan and then sauté the pounded ingredients for a few minutes then add in the desiccated coconut, stir to mix. Season with salt and sugar.

Let the pan cook for another one minute then turn the heat off. Let the mixture cool for a few minutes before mixing it to the beansprouts bowl. As the beansprouts are mixed into the warm coconut mixture they will soften slightly while maintaining its crunchiness. Cover and put in the fridge.

Make the blueberry sauce. Heat butter in a pan. Once melted add in the Oregon or Washington fresh blueberries and the rest of the sauce ingredients. Let boil then turn down the heat to simmer for 5 minutes.

To serve: Top salad with poached prawns then drizzle the blueberry sauce onto the salad. Garnish with basil leaves and more chopped chillies if you prefer.

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Han’ei Kaya – A Japanese Izakaya Restaurant That Serves Japanese Dishes and Premium Drinks

August 14, 2022May 10, 2023 dixonthum

If you like Japanese food, you’ll never want to miss this one. Han’ei Kaya is a non-halal Japanese Izakaya restaurant that serves a wide variety of Japanese dishes and premium drinks, located in Plaza Arkadia.

That day, I went to @haneikaya with my buddies and I find the environment here gives me the “exclusive” feel. The interior design exudes a rich Japanese mood and feel that remind me a lot of Japan. Dining here makes me feel like I were in Japan. Furthermore, it’s got several private rooms to cater private or business functions. Very suitable for big group gatherings.

Han’ei Kaya just introduced some new items to its menu like:
▪️ Unagi cheese roll
▪️ Salmon fantasy roll
▪️ Tskune
▪️ Buta grill with garlic sauce
▪️ Buta grill with spicy miso sauce
▪️ Buta grill with pineapple
▪️ Smoke duck with pineapple
▪️ Grill baby scallop with mentai sauce
▪️ Grill fresh oyster
▪️ Cornflake ebi tempura
▪️ Kinoko teppanyaki
▪️ Beef saikoro teppanyaki

I see my friends really enjoyed their buta (pork) grills while I couldn’t stop appreciating the other pork-free options. They do have quite a number of seafood, chicken, vegetable and mushroom selections too.

If you’re game for some authentic Japanese food and drinks, head over to @haneikaya

📍Han’ei Kaya [non-halal]
A-G-7, Plaza Arkadia,
Desa Parkcity, Kuala Lumpur

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Food & Drink

Kanteen, A Neighborhood Cafe in Mont Kiara

August 7, 2022May 10, 2023 dixonthum

I just discovered this neighborhood cafe in Mont Kiara, @kanteen_ serving Malaysian comfort food like nasi lemak ayam rempah, signature tom yum pasta, noodles, pizza, salad and many more. Vegetarian and healthy options are available too! We love the casual ambiance around, we chose a seat outdoor as it was not too hot that day. Indoor seat are available too, of course.

For those who love desserts, you must try their waffles. Delicious!

🆕 Don’t miss their current promotion!
Order any of these:
1. Signature Tom Yum Pasta; or
2. Fish & Chips; or
3. Indomee Ayam Rempah

And receive a second plate of Indomee Ayam Rempah for RM8 only.

📍KANTEEN
Mont’ Kiara Banyan,
Lot GF2, No 28, Jalan Kiara,
Mont Kiara, 50480 Kuala Lumpur

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Food & Drink, Health & Wellness, Lifestyle

U.S. Potatoes Boosts Athletic Performance in Twincity Marathon 2022

August 2, 2022May 10, 2023 dixonthum

Twincity Marathon 2022 flagged off on 23-24 July 2022 in Persiaran Flora, Cyberjaya

I feel so delighted knowing that there so many people participated in the Twincity Marathon 2022 held on 23-24 July 2022 in Persiaran Flora, Cyberjaya. I used to be a long-distance runner too and a proud finisher of three half marathons. Running long distance like any other exercise requires the right food to provide nutrients and energy.

For your information, potatoes are a nutrient-dense vegetable that provides the energy, fiber, potassium and Vitamin C which boost sport performances and help fuel people who do sports or lead an active lifestyle. Recent research findings indicated that potatoes are found to have the nutrients that could benefit fitness buffs, marathoners and sportspersons. Isn’t this great?

U.S. potato products served to the 4,000 runners in both the full and half marathons

Potatoes USA took on the role of a key sponsor of this Twincity Marathon 2022. An outdoor tent was erected, with various personnel serving U.S. potato products to the 4,000 runners in both the full and half marathons.

The U.S. mashed potatoes served are aimed to help runners replenish energy levels and nutrients needed after the marathon. Educational materials on potato power nutrition to improve sports performance were also distributed at the event.

This event was also graced by the participation of His Excellency U.S. Ambassador to Malaysia, Mr. Brian D. McFeeters, 61 years of age, who took part in the half marathon (21km run). “I am delighted to see Potatoes USA as a sponsor of this marathon and glad to have the information that potatoes are healthy, high in potassium, Vitamin C and fiber – which are great for post recovery,” quipped Mr. Brian. “So now, maybe Malaysian can get to enjoy more potatoes like what we do in the U.S.,” he continued.

U.S. Ambassador to Malaysia, Mr. Brian D. McFeeters participated in the Twincity Marathon 2022

Clocking an impressive marathon finishing time of 2.27 hours, Brian showed that with proper diet and fuel, at his age, he could still beat many younger Malaysians in the half marathon. Despite his busy schedule, he exercises regularly and maintains a healthy diet with the help of U.S. potatoes.

Max Lim, 51, a writer in KL loves to run and is a familiar face at most marathons in town. “As a runner, I love U.S. potatoes because they are a nutritional powerhouse that help me stay fueled for my runs. They are quite easy to digest and reduce hunger pangs during a long or intense run. Furthermore, they are tasty and can be prepared in many ways – there are no limit to the versatility of the U.S. potatoes,” enthused Max.

Runner Kelly Chin, 45 years old, said she enjoys eating U.S. Potatoes for her carbo energy, as it is a healthier alternative. “Potatoes are one of the must-haves in my kitchen because they are versatile, nutrient-dense, and energy packed food. This helps to fuel my workouts and runs,” she explained.

Over the past 40-50 years, numerous studies had been conducted and suggested that carbohydrates are a primary macronutrient for sustaining and improving athletic performance. According to Nutrition Today, a US journal, it is suggested that a balanced diet high in natural, quality carbohydrate rich foods like nutrient-densed potatoes may be optimal to improving physical performance among elite endurance athletes.

Here are some key facts about the potato power:

26 grams of carbohydrate – Potatoes are a nutrient-dense quality carbohydrate, important for optimal physical and mental performance as the primary fuel for your brain and a key source of energy for muscles. And, because your body’s own stores of carbohydrate are limited and may be depleted – even in a single session of intense and/or prolonged exercise– it’s important to replenish them.
620 Milligrams of Potassium – A medium-sized (148g) potato, with the skin-on, provides more potassium than a banana, no fat, no sodium, and no cholesterol. Potatoes are perfect for aiding muscle, cardiovascular and nervous system function during long endurance events.
30% of daily value of Vitamin C – Potatoes are an excellent source of Vitamin C which helps to boost the immune system and aids in collagen production, a major muscle tissue component.
3 grams of plan-based protein – Protein is a key component of muscle and an important nutrient for performance.
2 grams of fiber (7% daily value) – Fiber helps regulate blood glucose and increase satiety, making one feel full longer.
110 Calories for Energy – Easily digestible and more energy dense than any other popular vegetable, potatoes are a good choice to fuel the demands of racing a marathon.

Time to boost your performance with Potatoes USA!
FB: https://www.facebook.com/MYpotatoesUSA
Website: https://uspotatogoodness.com.my/

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Food & Drink, My Personal

Malai Thai Cuisine Awarded Thai SELECT, A Symbol of Authentic Thai Cuisine by Thailand’s Department of International Trade Promotion

July 30, 2022 dixonthum

What is Thai SELECT?
Thai SELECT is a certification awarded by Thailand’s Department of International Trade Promotion, Ministry of Commerce. It certifies the food, hospitality and atmosphere of restaurants, ensuring the preparation of an authentic Thai experience.

Whenever you travel, finding the Thai SELECT stamp of approval assures you that delicious Thai cuisine is
served in a pleasant environment and charming hospitality – the full journey into the Thai culture.

There are strict guidelines to be followed to be recognized by Thai SELECT, and there are four categories of certification: Signature, Classic, Casual and Unique. Thai SELECT Signature is granted to restaurants that serve authentic Thai food with a taste of premium quality, refined decoration and excellent service, while Thai SELECT Classic is awarded to Thai Restaurants of excellent quality.

The symbol is given to restaurants in four categories, assessed by type of restaurant, decoration, and level of food and service excellence.

Restaurants with Thai SELECT Casual offer good quality Thai food, but have limited services, while Thai
SELECT Unique restaurants are for selected restaurants within Thailand that offer local specialties. There is
also Thai SELECT Products, which are Thai food products made the traditional way.

For more information on the Thai SELECT, check out the following links: https://www.thaiselect.com/en/page/about-us

Thai SELECT Restaurants in Malaysia (13 Restaurants)

	Restaurant Name	Address
1	Malai Thai Cuisine	Cormar Suites, 10, Jalan Perak, Kuala Lumpur, 50450 Kuala Lumpur
2	Thai-in Mookata, Setapak	3, Jalan 14/27b, Desa Setapak, 53300 Kuala Lumpur
3	Thai-in Mookata, Kepong	102, Jln Metro Perdana Barat 2, Taman Usahawan Kepong, 52100 Kuala Lumpur
4	Thai-in Mookata, OKR (Under Renovation)	Jalan Mega Kecil, Off, Jln Klang Lama, Taman United, 58200 Kuala Lumpur
5	Kompassion	5, Jalan SS 20/11, Damansara Kim, 47400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
6	Chilli Head Bar & Eatery, Penang	3A-G-11 Straits Quay Straits Quay, Jalan Seri Tanjung Pinang, Seri Tanjung Pinang Tanjung Tokong, 10470 George Town, Pulau Pinang
7	Whatsaeb Boat Noodle, Penang	173, Lebuh Carnarvon, George Town, 10100 George Town, Pulau Pinang
8	Busaba Heavenly Thai	F15 1st Fl., Bangsar Shopping Center, 285 Jalan Maarof, Bukit Bandaraya 59000
9	Thai Thai	Lot G1-135, Oasis Boulevard, Sunway Pyramid, No.3, Jalan PJS 11/15, Bandar Sunway 46150
10	La Moon	Unit No.2-1,Greens Terrace, Jalan Wan Kadir 3, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, 60000 Kuala Lumpur
11	Amarin Heavenly Thai	S045, Level 2, Centre Court, Mid Valley Megamall, Lingkaran Syed Putra, Mid Valley City, 59200 Kuala Lumpur
12	Celadon	Pavilion, 6.37, Level 6, 50200 Kuala Lumpur
13	Pandan Thai Delight	73, RH Plaza, Jln Stutong Baru, Sedc Woodhouse, 93350 Kuching, Sarawak

Award Ceremony & Luncheon
An award ceremony was held in Malai Thai Cuisine, located along Jalan Perak, Kuala Lumpur on 14 July 2022. This restaurant is awarded Thai SELECT by Thailand’s Department of International Trade Promotion. Nestled a stone’s throw from KLCC on the ground floor of Cormar Suites, Malai Thai has already become a firm favourite amongst many of the locals, expat residents and businesses.

Cooking demo by the Thai Ambassador and representatives from the office of Commercial Affairs of the Royal Thai Embassy.

The Thai Ambassador and representatives from the office of Commercial Affairs of the Royal Thai Embassy even put their hands-on for a cooking demonstration at the restaurant.

I was introduced to a few authentic Thai dishes during the luncheon hosted by Malai Thai Cuisine. The delicious dishes are Green Curry Chicken, Fried Fish with Mango Salad, Tom Yum River Prawns, Shrimps with Minced Chicken, Deep Fried Shrimp Balls and Green Mango Salad. The experience was definitely pleasurable, enjoying authentic Thai dishes with the cozy ambience in the restaurant.

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