ROTI JALA

I posted about my first attempt at making roti jala some time ago. Glad to report back here that with practice, this dish which is a favorite with the entire family, has improved tremendously. I am still making it with the same plastic, cheap roti jala sieve. Just goes to show that when you are determined to cook something which is a popular request from people you love, and when the dish is cooked with love, it almost, always turns up well. This was a total of 4 dozens of roti jala which disappeared in about 10 minutes during lunch time when the kids are famished right after school.

Teochew Plain Porridge with Condiments

Plain Teochew porridge is something I really appreciate especially when I am ill. It makes me feel better almost instantaneously. In the olden days, this used to be a simple dish, presumably for people from the low income group who can't afford to serve anything too elaborate on the dinner table. So at that time it was plain, watery, white porridge with a few measely condiments to go with it. Hardly nutritious, I guess. But that was before. As time went by, Teochew porridge has evolved to become a meal that is rather elaborate and certainly not confined to those who can't afford a decent meal. Nowadays people also go out for a teochew porridge meal in the shops. A wide selection is offered and the bill you pay finally, can be a large one, mind you. My hubby's Dad loves Teochew porridge and I remembered how we would always opt for his favourite Teochew porridge when we invited him to join us for or lunch or dinner. I don't recall having much porridge when I was small, except during the times when I was unwell. But somehow, I have grown to like this dish and my kids have also followed suit. So every now and then, I would try to cook this at home for the family. Our favorite is a sourish dish comprising dried prawns, shallots, chillies, a generous amount of lime and soya sauce. It's about the simplest dish to make and has a nice tangy taste to it. Try it, you'd be surprised how well this dish goes with Teochew porridge.