In January, I had an idea.
I wanted to do something no Gemini would ever think it would be possible.
Stick to a routine.
The plan?
Every Monday for the next three months, I’d share a dish that is inspired by someone. I didn’t think I would be able to stick to it. But I did.
13 Mondays later, it was done.
Here is the full list of dishes. Enjoy.
1st Entry: Sambal (spicy Malaysian condiment)
This is inspired by my mom. Sambal is a must have, delicious South East Asian condiment. It’s spicy yet sweet. It’s great to go with rice, noodles, meat, fish, vegetables. Pretty much anything.
2nd Entry: Dry Wonton Noodles
This is inspired by my dad. Delicious Dry Wonton Noodles, flavored with Garlic & Shallot Oil. Served with smoky Chinese BBQ Pork & sour and spicy Pickled Green Chilies.
3rd Entry: Taiwanese Chicken Rice
This is inspired by Mr. V, my hubby. Taiwanese Chicken Rice is one of Taiwan’s traditional & most popular dishes. Juicy & tender shredded chicken with a special sauce & fragrant rice.
4th Entry: Bibimbap (Korean mixed rice)
This is inspired by my sister in law, TJ. Bibimbap, a signature Korean dish is rice, assorted vegetables, meat & eggs mixed together with a sauce. It’s beautifully simple & delicious.
5th Entry: Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins
This is inspired by my sister, Ai Yuen. Moist & fluffy Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins. Made from overripe bananas, yogurt & chocolate chips. Perfect for breakfast, snack or dessert.
6th Entry: Potato Egg Salad
This is inspired by my M.I.L., QQ. Classic creamy Potato Egg Salad. It’s deliciously perfect as appetizers, sides or even entrees and is always the party or picnic favorite.
7th Entry: Asam Laksa (Malaysian spicy sour noodles soup)
This is inspired by my sister, Ai Vy. Asam Laksa is an addictive & popular Malaysian spicy & sour noodles soup with poached mackerel in tamarind, chili, mint & lemongrass broth.
8th Entry: Braised Soy Vinegar Ribs
This is inspired by Mr. V’s grandmother. Tender Braised Soy Vinegar Ribs, coated in a sticky, finger licking, perfectly balanced sweet, salty & sour sauce. Enjoy them with steamed rice.
9th Entry: Thai Pineapple Fried Rice
This is inspired my F.I.L., Dan. This Thai Pineapple Fried Rice is simple yet packed with so much flavor. It can be whipped in a jiffy and beats take out any day.
10th Entry: Tamarind Prawn (Asam Prawn)
This is inspired by my aunt, May. Asam or Tamarind Prawn is plump juicy prawns coated with a delicious sticky sweet & sour sauce and fried with chilies, onions & curry leaves.
11th Entry: Perfectly Crispy French Fries
This is inspired by one of my bffs, Sandy. Make perfectly crispy French Fries that stays crispy outside yet fluffy inside. No more gummy fries that goes soft on you in 10 minutes.
12th Entry: Stir Fried Black Pepper Venison
This is inspired by my uncle, Meng. Black Pepper Venison with silky, velvety meat that’s so tender, so succulent, with every piece coated with a rich, savory & peppery sauce.
13th Entry: Tonkotsu Ramen
This is inspired by my brother in law, Mr. Han. Rich, delicious pork & chicken broth with fresh Ramen noodles, soft yolk eggs & melt in the mouth pork belly. The ultimate comfort food.
Who or what inspires you?