A Sweet Summer in Hakodate

This summer, we had the chance to visit Hakodate, and it turned out to be such a memorable trip for so many reasons. One of the best parts? Getting to enjoy Snaffles’ famous cheesecakes again after so many years. Twelve years ago, I had my first taste of Japanese cheesecake from Snaffles and I instantly…

Summer Foods to Keep You Cool and Balanced, TCM Style

Summer is officially here, and you can feel it everywhere—longer days, sunshine, and that heat that just screams for ice-cold drinks. But here’s the thing: in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), offers a different perspective on internal balance.  Cooling the body isn’t about the temperature of the liquid, but rather using specific functional foods that naturally help…

Velvety Leek and Potato Soup

Today’s one of those blustery, snowy days that just screams “stay inside!” So, that’s exactly what I’m doing, and I’m whipping up some homemade soup. And really, what’s more comforting than a classic Leek and Potato Soup? It’s creamy, earthy, and just overflowing with cozy vibes. Simplicity and Health Benefits of Homemade Soup Making soup…

Embrace the Dark Side

We always hear about “eating the rainbow,” but today I want to shine a light on the most underrated part of the spectrum: Black Foods. These dark-pigmented ingredients offer significant functional value. I consider them the “underdogs” of the produce aisle—dense with antioxidants that support systemic health and provide a simple way to increase the nutrient…

Wholesome & Affordable: A Guide to Stress-Free Meal Planning

As we grapple with the economic challenges of rising costs, maintaining a healthy diet might seem like an unattainable luxury for many. Meal planning is a super handy way to eat healthy without overspending. I’ve definitely had my moments of struggle, but over the past year, I’ve made a real effort to focus on planning…

Hearty Eats: Braised Short Rib Ragù

Braised short ribs might just be one of my all-time favourite comfort meals. They’re rich, hearty, and exactly what you need on a cozy night in. What I love most is that while they feel fancy, the process is actually very simple. You just let them slow-cook on the stove (or in the oven), and the result…

Baked Alaska: A Timeless Classic Dessert

The first time I tasted Baked Alaska was at a restaurant in Hong Kong, and I was hooked instantly. Despite that early love affair, I hadn’t actually tried making it myself until very recently. With Valentine’s Day around the corner, I thought it would be a fun surprise for my husband and kids. They were so…

Chinese Turnip Cakes

There’s something about the smell of turnip cakes (Lo Bak Go) sizzling in a pan that always takes me right back to my childhood. Every year, without fail, my mom would make batches of these savoury cakes, and they were a total hit with everyone—friends, family, and neighbours alike. In our culture, turnip cakes are…

Smashed Potato Bites

Who can resist crispy, creamy smashed potato bites? Seriously, they’re our go-to snack or appetizer around here, and we just can’t get enough of them. Picture this: that perfect golden, crispy outside with a soft, fluffy center, all topped off with whatever deliciousness you’re craving. My son is absolutely obsessed! What’s really great about smashed potato…

Pandan Ice Cream: A Taste of Comfort and Nostalgia

If you’re craving a flavour that feels both exotic and deeply comforting, you’re in for a treat. Today, I’m sharing my recipe for homemade Pandan Ice Cream. This is one of my all-time favourite unique flavours. Now, I’ll be honest—pandan can be a bit polarizing because it’s so distinct. It’s like a nice blend of rich…

Soul-Warming Homemade Kare Udon

Today, I’m excited to share a real family favourite in our house: Kare Udon. To be honest, it’s my husband’s absolute favourite. I’ve been leaning into making things from scratch lately—there’s just something so satisfying about it, don’t you think? One of my recent kitchen projects has been perfecting my own homemade curry roux. Sure, those…

Honey Miso Glazed Tofu

This honey miso glazed tofu has become a go-to for our meatless nights—it’s one of my kids’ absolute favourites! They devour it every time, and it feels great to see them enjoy something that’s not only tasty but also packed with wholesome ingredients. The tofu soaks up that sweet and savoury glaze, making each bite…

Easy Miso Honey Glazed Salmon

If you love salmon as much as I do, you’ve got to try Miso Honey-Glazed Salmon. It’s one of those easy, go-to dinners that’s both healthy and packed with flavour. The honey and miso glaze is super simple to whip up and takes the salmon to a whole new level. Perfect for busy weeknights or…