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Bakso Indonesian Meatball Soup Recipe

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Bakso Indonesian Meatball Soup Recipe
Bakso Indonesian Meatball Soup

The Bakso Indonesian Meatball Soup Recipe

Bakso Indonesian Meatball Soup Recipe is a famous dish within the rural and cities of Indonesia. This is one of those kinds of dishes that have become comfort food to locals and visitors alike. A must-have for the wearily traveling as they explore the nooks and crannies of their Indonesian adventure.

Bakso adalah makanan Indonesia yang terbuat dari campuran daging sapi dan tepung tapioka. Bakso adalah makanan yang berasal dari cina dan menurut sejarah bakso mulai ada di Indonesia sejak ribuan tahun yang lalu ketika pedagang pedagang dari Tiongkok masuk dan menetap di Indonesia.  

Bakso (Indonesian meat ball)  is Indonesian food made from beef and tapioca flour. Bakso is originally from china and historycally basko is popular in Indonesia since a thousand years ago when  Chinese merchants came and stay in Indonesia

Di Tiongkok sendiri bakso biasanya terbuat dari campuran daging babi tetapi karenamayoritas penduduk Indonesia adalah muslim kami menggantinya dengan daging sapi dan mie bakso sapi menjadi salah satu makanan khas Indonesia.

Catatan: jika anda menyukai bakso danging babi anda masih bisa menemuinya di Indonesia.

Selain bakso sapi masih banyak lagi variant bakso seperti bakso ikan, bakso ayam dll.

In China bakso usually made from pork but because most of the people in Indonesia are Muslims so we changed it with beef and mie bakso sapi (beef meatball soup with noodles) has become the typical food in Indonesia.

Note: if you like Bakso Babi (pork meatballs) you can still find it here in Indonesia.

beside bakso sapi there is a lot of variants of bakso like bakso ikan (fish ball), bakso ayam (chicken meatballs), etc.

Meskipun bakso berasal dari Tiongkok tetapi bakso dari Indonesia berbeda dengan dari  Tiongkong, bakso yang berasal dari Indonesia memiliki cita rasa tersendiri yang khas dari rempah rempah Indonesia dan itu yang menjadikan bakso populer di Indonesia.

Even though bakso is originally from China but Bakso (Indonesian meatballs) is different like in China,

we have our own special and unique taste from Indonesian special seasoning so that Bakso has become popular in Indonesia.

MIE BAKSO SAPI

        Mie bakso sapi memang benar benar terkenal di Indonesia dan hampir semua masyarakat Indonesia menyukainya jadi tidak heran jika mie basko ada di daerah manapun di Indonesia dan tidak heran juga jika bakso menjadi salah satu makan kaki lima populer di Indonesia.

Mie bakso sapi is really popular in Indonesia and almost everyone here loves it so, no wonder if mie bakso is everywhere in Indonesia and has become one of most popular street food in Indonesia.

Kebanyakan pedagang bakso berasal dari solo dan wonogiri karena bakso mereka terkenal sangat lezat,  kota solo dan wonogiri sendiri disebut dengan kota bakso, bakso dari solo dan wonogiri sangatlah terkenal dimanapun karena mungkin mereka sudah berjualan bakso sejak lama dan memiliki usaha bakso secara turun temurun dan pastinya juga rasa yang khas membuat bakso solo dan wonogiri itu sendiri menjadi sangat terkenal.

The most of bakso seller are from solo and wonogiri because their bakso has a great taste, Solo city and Wonogiri is called “The city of bakso” , bakso from solo and wonogiri is really popular everywhere in Indonesia its because maybe they has become bakso seller since a long time ago and have bakso bussines from generation to generation and ofcourse the unique taste and delicious has made bakso solo and wonogiri really popular.

Banyak orang orang solo merantau ke daerah daerah di Indonesia dari kota kecil hingga kota besar mereka merantau untuk membuka usaha bakso biasanya mereka menuliskan “Mie bakso solo” atau “mie bakso wonogiri” pada kedai dan gerobak bakso mereka untuk memberi tahu bahwa bakso tersebut asli solo atau wonogiri.

A lot of people in Solo and wonogiri left home to open bakso business in another place in Indonesia from big city to small town they usually put “mie bakso solo” or “mie bakso wonogiri” in their bakso shop or their gerobak (Indonesian traditional cart to sell street food) to let people know that the bakso is original from solo or wonogiri so they gonna come and try.

Selain bakso Solo dan wonogiri ada juga bakso malang yang juga cukup terkenal di Indonesia, sesuai namanya bakso ini berasal dari malang cara penyajian agak sedikit berbeda dengan bakso solo, pada bakso malang ditambahkan tahu putih yang di rebus dan kerupuk pangsit. pedagang bakso malang juga banyak tersebar di banyak wilayah in Indonesia tetapi tidak sebanyak pedagang bakso solo dan wonogiri, sama hal nya seperti pedagang bakso solo, pedagang bakso malang pun selalu menuliskan “bakso malang” pada kedai mereka atau gerobak mereka. 

Bagi saya bakso malang dan bakso solo memiliki cita rasa yang berbeda tetapi kedua nya sama sama memiliki rasa yang lezat dan juga kedua nya berasal dari jawa.

Beside Bakso solo and wonogiri there is Bakso malang that also popular in Indonesia just like the name “Bakso Malang” this kind of bakso is typical food from Malang they way they serve bakso malang is a little bit different like bakso solo, Bakso malang served with white tofu stew and pangsit crackers. Bakso malang seller is also spread in several places in Indonesia but but a lot like bakso solo and wonogiri seller.  Just like bakso solo and wonogiri seller they also like to put “Bakso Malang” in their shop and gerobak. 

For me bakso solo and bakso malang has a different taste but both of them are delicious and have their own unique taste and both are also from Java.

Di era yang modern ini banyak pedagang bakso yang memodifikasi bakso agar lebih menarik dan unik mulai dari bentuk, rasa, dan jenisnya. Di bantul ada bakso ada kedai bakso yang menjual bakso tumpeng mereka juga menawarkan beberapa ukuran dari mulai kecil sedang dan besar, cara penyajiannya sama yaitu dengan mie  hanya saja bentuk nya tidak bulat lagi melainkan segitiga seperti tumpeng, selain itu juga yang sangat populer saat ini adalah bakso beranak yaitu bakso yang berisi bakso kecil, sosis telur dan cabai dan ada juga bakso keju yaitu bakso yang di isi dengan keju meskipun bakso hasil modifikasi tersebut baru bagi masyarakat Indonesia tetapi sudah bisa mencuri perhatian masyarakat Indonesia dan cukup di terima oleh masyarakat indonesia karna rasa nya tidak kalah dengan bakso biasa

In this modern era theres a lot of bakso seller modified the bakso and make it more intersting and unique, from the shape, taste and kind of Bakso. In Bantul Yogyakarta there is a bakso shop that have bakso tumpeng (cone shaped Indonesian yellow rice) this bakso tumpeng have variant size from small, medium to big the way they serve is just the same like bakso solo only the shape that look different when bakso is always round this one is triangle. Beside that there is also Bakso beranak this big size bakso filled with sausage, egg and small bakso sometimes with chilli, there is also bakso keju a bakso filled with Cheese 

Even those Bakso is something new for Indonesian people are welcome with this modern bakso we love it, its delicious just like a traditional bakso

Resep mie bakso Solo

Untuk kuah kaldu sapi

Tulang sapi 

lemak sapi

bawang merah+putih (haluskan lalu tumis) 

1 liter air

1 sdt garam 

1 sdt kaldu bubuk

Masukan tulang sapi, lemak sapi dan tumis bawang merah dan putih ke dalam satu liter air masak hingga mendidih 

Bakso

400 gr Daging sapi cincang

100 gr Daging ayam cincang 

100 gr Tepung tapioka 

½ sdt baking powder

1 sdt garam

1 sdt merica bubuk

1 sdm bawang merah goreng

1 sdm bawang putih goreng 

1 butir telur 

es batu secukupnya

•Masukan semua bahan bahan di atas ke dalam food processor tunggu sekitar 1-2 menit hingga semuanya merata

•siapkan panci dan masukan air tunggu hingga mendidih 

•bentuk adonan bakso hingga berbentuk bulat, lalu masukan kedalam air mendidih jika bakso sudah mengambang bakso siap di tiriskan.

Cara menyajikan bakso

  • siapkan mangkuk
  • masukan mie kuning dan mie putih (bihun) 
  • masukan tauge 
  • seledri yang telah ti cincang
  • sawi 
  • tambahkan kecap
  • masukan bakso 
  • taburi bawang merah goreng
  • terakhir masukan kuah kaldu sapi yang masih panas
  • jika anda pecinta pedas anda bisa menambahkan saus dan sambal

How to Make Mie Bakso Solo

For beef broth soup you need:

  • bow bones
  • cow fat
  • onion+garlic(blend smooth and then stir-fry)
  • 1-liter water
  • 1 tsp salt 
  • 1 tsp broth powder

cook all the ingredients above together until it boils

Bakso

  • 400 gr minced beef 
  • 100 gr minced chicken
  • 100 gr tapioca flour
  • ½ tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp pepper
  • 1 tbs fried onion
  • 1 tbs fried garlic
  • 1 egg
  • ice cube 
  • Place all the ingredients into food processor mix it together waits until 1-2 minutes until its smooth 
  • Cook clear water in a pot until it boils
  • scoop the meatball paste with your hand and shaped like a ball place into boiling water 
  • if the meatball is float already the meatball is ready to drain

How to serve bakso 

  • place yellow noodles and white noodles (vermicelli noodles) in a bowl
  • add bean sprouts
  • Mustard greens (chopped)
  • celery (minced)
  • add soy sauce 
  • placed the meatballs 
  • add a sprinkle of fried onion 
  • pour boiled beef broth soup 
  • if you like spicy you can add sauce and sambal

And your Bakso Indonesian Meatball Soup Recipe is ready to serve 

You can learn more about Indonesia from it food, culture, and sights by following ExploreTravel and our Indonesia articles here.

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Exploring Majalengka Indonesia West Java

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The quiet side of Majalengka

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Devina Noviyanti

People of Majalengka Indonesia West Java
People of Majalengka Indonesia West Java

Editor Note: ExploreTraveler is active and on the ground in Indonesia with Devina Noviyanti our social media influencer and blogger for the region. We will begin with the Majalengka Indonesia area and expand into different guides and articles.

Indonesia is (Mangoshe), meaning lovely people, cultures, traditions, and it has some of the best local food in any area. Majalengka is one of those places that catches one’s curiosity. The people in Majalengka live modestly and live mainly by Sundanese culture.

Indonesia dipenuhi dengan orang orang menyenangkan dan ramah, budaya, tradisi, dan makanan khas di setiap daerahnya. Majalengka adalah salah satunya, dari sekian banyak kota di Indonesia yang menarik perhatian. Sebagian besar masyarakat Majalengka khususnya di desa desa masih hidup berdasarkan kebudayaan sunda.

Lembah subur dan hijau Majalengka di ambil di Paraland The lush and green valleys of Majalengka , taken at paraland WestJava Indonesia
Lembah subur dan hijau Majalengka di ambil di Paraland The lush and green valleys of Majalengka , taken at paraland WestJava Indonesia

The #Cilutung river one of the biggest river in #Majalengka. #westjava #Indonesia
The #Cilutung river one of the biggest river in #Majalengka. #westjava #Indonesia

The City Of Wind

People from outside Majalengka call it the city of wind, because the wind is significant, especially during the rainy season and many people who come here from afar are surprised by it. They are not only surprised by the wind but also the food and the town. We don’t usually eat at a table (we call it lesehan), or with silverware, but we typically eat with just our hands because the Sundanese people believe eating with one’s hands can enjoy the taste of the food we eat. 

Orang orang dari luar Majalengka maupun di majalengkanya sendiri memanggil kota majalengka sebagai kota angin karna memang angin disini cukup besar khususnya pada saat musim hujan mungkin orang yang datang ke majalengka dari jauh seperti majalengka kaget akan itu tetapi bukan hanya kaget dengan anginnya saja tetapi juga makanannya and juga kota nya sendiri.

Internet is a luxury here, especially in rural areas, as we mainly have to rely on cell phone 3G towers to access the Internet Rather than wired connections. However, we can still get a good internet connection if you live in the downtown city area of Majalengka, where there is more infrastructure.

Kami yang tinggal di desa tidak biasa makan menggukan sendok ataupun garpu karena menurut orang tua jaman dulu makan menggunakan tangan bisa lebih menikmati makananya itu sendiri, selain itu juga kami juga biasanya tidak makan di atas meja atau lesehan itu mungkin sudah jadi kebiasaan orang sunda yang masih melekat hingga saat ini. 

Famous Soy Sauce Or “kecap”

The most iconic things of Majalengka is the famous soy sauce or “kecap” and Gedong gincu Mango or “Mangga gedong gincu”. The Majalengka kecap is famous here because it’s a robust flavor and is legendary in the area. They have produced soy sauce for many years, and they still produce it traditionally, so it makes the kecap or soy sauce has a unique flavor that people enjoyed the taste of worldwide.

   Hal yang paling terkenal di majalengka dan sudah menjadi icon kota majalengka adalah kecap dan mangga gedong gincunya. Kecap majalengka memang sangat terkenal karena merupakan produk yang telah melegenda di majalengka, karena sudah puluhan tahun di produksi dan masih di produksi dengan cara tradisional, mungkin itu yang menjadikan kecap majalengka memiliki cita rasa yang khas dan di sukai banyak orang.

Selain kecapnya yang khas Mangga juga sangat terkenal di majalengka, mungkin banyak jenis mangga di Indonesia tetapi di majalengka mangga gincu lah yang sangat terkenal dan menjadi unggulan, karna memang terkenal majalengka mempunyai monumen gedong gincu di bunderan cigasong.

Exploring Majalengka Indonesia traditional Sundanese cake Serabi
Kue tradisional Sunda #Serabi terbuat dari tepung beras dan kelapa dengan telur di atasnya- A traditional Sundanese cake, #Serabi made from rice flour and coconut with egg on the top


Most of the people in Majalengka work as a farmer we have fruits and vegetable garden as our income, but still mango garden is the most people have here. People who have mango companies regularly export the Mango to Jakarta, but also, there’s a big company that ships the Mango to middle eastern countries.

Orang orang di majalengka yang memiliki perusahan Mangga biasanya mengirim mangga ke jakarta atau ke kota kota lain yang ada di Indonesia tetapi ada juga perusahaan mangga yang mengexport mangga nya keluar negeri seperti  timur tengah.

The laleejewo mango, also known as “Mangga”. A delicious and common food commodity
The laleejewo mango, also known as “Mangga”. A delicious and common food commodity
Musim panen akan segera tiba-Harvest season is coming Guava Majalengka Westjava Indonesia
Musim panen akan segera tiba-Harvest season is coming Guava Majalengka Westjava Indonesia

Here in Majalengka, we don’t have a large mall, and we don’t have a theatre, Mcdonalds, Starbucks, Pizza Hut, KFC, etc. However, it would be something cool for us if we have that. Still, if we want them, have to drive to Cirebon, which two hours driving from Majalengka, but don’t worry, we still have local restaurants that you can try here; we also have a lot of street food.

Disini di Majalengka tidak ada mall besar seperti di ibu kota, kami tidak memiliki bioskop, tidak ada Mcdonald, Starbucks, pizzahut kfc dll, mungkin itu akan jadi sesuatu yang keren bagi kami jika kami bisa memiliki semua itu, tetapi jika kami memang benar benar ingin semua itu, tinggal pergi saja ke mall yang ada di cirebon yang kurang lebih menepuh perjalanan selama 2 jam dari majalengka, tetapi tenang saja meskipun tidak ada itu semua di Majalengka masih banyak restoran restoran lokal yang bisa kalian coba disini selain itu juga banyak sekali makanan kaki lima disini yang engga kalah enak.

Exploring Majalengka Indonesia Gudeg green jack fruit Indonesia
Nangka ada dimanapun di Indonesia, di yogyakarta nangka muda dimasak sebagai gudeg Jack fruit is everywhere in #Indonesia, in #Yogyakarta we like to cook it as #Gudeg (green jack fruit sweet stew) with special Indonesian seasoning.
Exploring Majalengka Indonesia Indonesian yellow turmeric rice
Indonesian yellow turmeric rice

There’s a park that is famously called “alun alun” located in the downtown of Majalengka. You can find many kinds of street food over there, one of people’s favorite street food is “seblak.” It constructed from “kerupuk” (Indonesian crackers), cabbage, noodle chicken finger, and egg with special seasoning and original chili sauce. You don’t have to add chili sauce if you don’t like the spice. Still, people here love spicy, seasoned food, so don’t be surprised if the food here is tasty but a little hot and spicy.

Disini ada taman yang terkenal di majalengka yaitu alun alun Majalengka lokasinya tepat di jangtung kota Majalengka, disana kalian bisa menemukan banyak sekali kuliner dari pedagang pedagang kaki lima, salah satu kuliner yang banyak sekali di minati oleh masyarakat Majalengka adalah seblak, seblak ini terbuat dari kerupuk, telor, kol dan ceker ayam dengan bumbu sederhana dan juga kalian bisa tambah kan pedas sesuai selera kalian, tetapi sebagian besar orang orang di majalengka menyukai makanan pedas jadi jangan heran ya kalau kebanyakan makanan disini pedas.

Talking about street food in Majalengka; my favorite food is the “lumpia basah” and I can’t find it anywhere outside the area.  Even when I’m in Jakarta, Lumpia basah made from bean sprouts, jimaca, palm sugar, with simple but special seasoning and chili sauce wrapped with food wrapper(Lumpia). It tasted sweet, salty, and spicy.

Berbicara mengenai kuliner kaki lima di majalengka favorit saya adalah lumpia basah, jika seblak bisa saya jumpai di luar kota Majalengka berbeda dengan dengan lumpia basah saya tida bisa menemuinya di luar kota Majalengka, lumpia basah adalah makanan yang terbuat dari tauge, telor, bengkuang dang gula merah yang di bungkus dengan kulit lumpia dan daun cara memakan nya adalah dengan sumpit sama hal nya dengan seblak lumpia basah ini juga bisa kalian tambahkan pedas sesuai selera kalian rasanya manis, asin, dan pedas.

 

This bridge connects #pasirmuncang and #cikamarang together, providing steady supply between the two villages. #majalengka #westjava
This bridge connects #pasirmuncang and #cikamarang together, providing steady supply between the two villages. #majalengka #westjava

 In Majalengka you can also find a lot of beautiful natural places to visit like a waterfall, Panyaweuyan terrace, tea garden, Ciremai mountains and “Paraland” and a lot more. One area that famous is Paraland it’s a resort where you can see all over Majalengka. So that’s Majalengka I love it here, and it is my home and the place I grew up in.

Di majalengka kalian juga bisa menemukan banyak keindahan alam yang bisa kalian datangi seperti air terjun, teraserind di Panyaweuyan, kebun teh, paraland dan masih banyak lagi. Salah satu tempat yang paling terkenal adalah paraland tempat ini adalah resort dimana kalian bisa melihat seluruh kota majalengka selain itu masih banyak hal lain lagi yang bisa kalian lakukan disini. Nah itu dia majalengka, saya suka di sini, Majalengka adalah rumah saya dimana saya dibesarkan

Next time you want to explore someplace new away from the tourist areas consider exploring Majalengka Indonesia West Java.

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Devina is a social media influencer and blogger for ExploreTraveler Indonesia.

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A Malaysian Experience

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The Straits Of Malacca In Beautiful Malaysia

Perhaps one of the most extreme examples of beauty can be found in the Strait of Malacca. This magnificent waterway provides the connection between the Andaman Sea, also known as the Indian Ocean, and the South China Sea, which is a part of the Pacific Ocean. This breathtaking strait runs between Sumatra, an island of Indonesia, and Peninsular, Malaysia. The very most Southern part of Thailand forms the border on the east. With Sumatra on the West and Peninsular and Thailand to the east, it is a major waterway connecting many different cultures and countries. The strait consists of 25,000 miles making it a waterway to be noted.

There can be no better place to begin your Malaysian experience than on the shores of the Malacca Strait.  It does not matter if you come when the sun is shinning, or when it is setting, beauty is everywhere.

The Strait of Malacca combines with the Singapore Strait providing the main route between the Indian and Pacific Oceans. There is no shorter way to move tankers between Japan in Asia and the Persian Gulf.

The Romantic Malay Peninsula

The Avani Sepang Goldcoast Resort in Selangor, Malaysia is a Malaysian gem of elegance and adventure wrapped into one package. Your suite will be one of over 300 suites that are out over the water. They are very private and deluxe accommodations. Your beach front accommodation will provide you with a wealth of culture and all the adventure you desire. Kuala Lumpur International Airport is only a short drive away, taking about 40 minutes.

The food is suburb.  There are five restaurants and bars, plus one lounge. The choices are not quite endless, but they offer a vast array of refreshing drinks and many International favorites. You can relax by the pool and sip on a nice cool refreshing drink or even grab a bite at the pool side. Dine outside on the deck overlooking the water while enjoying the sunset and many different entertainment options. If you prefer, you can come on inside for dinner and dine in luxury while enjoying the air conditioned dinning room. There are a good selection of local Malay and Chinese specialties offered, as well as specialties from all over the world. If you prefer the seclusion of your private room, there is room service. It is Whatever you want to do, when you want to do it. This is a Malaysian gem!

Tasty Temptations From The Sea

Enjoy anything from the finest lobster, to the many fresh local fish, all kept on ice till they are cooked in any number of fine ways. The Avani Sepang Goldcoast Resort, with it’s five international restaurants, offer only the freshest fish. The fish is supplied from the local fisherman daily, as in all of Asia. Fresh means just off the boat. What an adventure in eating awaits you in this tiny corner of paradise!

Relax On The Deck Overlooking The Water

Relax by the water and enjoy your drink, or just enjoy the scenery that is all around you. Under the covering of the umbrella, you can even catch a short nap. Just want to rest and relax, maybe read a good book, the choices are endless. Whatever you enjoy doing as you gaze out over the water, the options are almost endless. Just lean back and relax, the choices are yours.

The National Monument overlooking Kuala Lumpur

Just a short walk from the magnificent Lake Gardens at Kuala Lumpur is this National Momment. The bronze sculpture was built to remember the sacrifice many brave soldiers made for the freedom of their country. This historic sculpture is one of the tallest groups of bronze sculptures. Another amazing mark in history.

There are many different attractions to do at Kuala Lumpur’s National Monument. The beautiful Lake Gardens provide miles of greenery. It’s lush vegetation is inviting to those who desire rest and relaxation from the concrete jungle of the business world. A short walk through the park from the monument and you will discover the spectacular Lake Gardens. There is not a garden so magnificent anywhere else in Malaysia.

Walking yet a little farther and you will discover the Kuala Lumpur Bird Park. This is one of the most renowned aviaries in the entire world with over 200 separate species represented among the more than 3,000 birds. Take time to do a photo shoot and feed the beautiful birds. Other major attractions the Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Park with what seems like an endless variety of butterflies. Close by the Bird Park is the Kuala Lumpur Deer Park with several species of deer from all over the world on exhibit. Like the Bird Park, you are welcome to feed the animals and take photos.

Among the deep greens of Kuala Lumpur park you will find a beautiful Hibiscus Garden and an Orchid Garden with species of the Orchid plant from all over the world. If you are looking for beauty, you will find it among these two gardens that are just waiting to be discovered.

Central Market Kuala Lumpur Malaysia

The life of this iconic market began in 1888. It was then that Yap ah Loy, the Kapitan of the city at the time, built the wet market. This market served as a central landmark in colonial Kuala Lumpur. In the modern city of Kuala Lumpur this market continues to take an important place in the lives of the people. In the 1980s, the Malaysian Heritage Society campaigned to have the market relocated, saving it from almost certain demolition. Even to this day, this Central Market continues to be an iconic landmark. It is a major destination for locals and tourists, as well as those who just love the arts. If it is shopping you desire to do, then this is the perfect market. Inside it’s walls you will discover local boutiques as well as major chain stores. It is the perfect place for the shopper of the family to spend a few hours searching for that perfect gift, or just to explore the many different and unique shops that you will find.

A Malaysian Experience - A person standing next to a body of water - Boating

Boating Through The Mangroves

Boating through the Mangrove Jungle in the Negeri Sembilan Peninsula Malaysia is an incredible experience. While the mangroves only make up about two percent of Malaysia, they are home to many species of mollusk, shrimp, crab, and a variety of other small fish. These are a major food source for the people living in the coastal communities. These dense and protected forests also provide a place for many different species of fish to hatch and grow into adults safely. Many of the fish found in the coral reefs, had their start in the mangroves. Shrimp, crab, and a variety of other small fish all had their beginnings in these dense waters. 

A Malaysian Experience - A body of water - Nature reserve

Mangrove jungle in Malaysia
The mangroves are the salt loving rain forests of the tropical seas. Trees and shrubs that love to exist in salt water call this dense tropical forest by the sea home. Not only is it one of the world’s most diverse ecosystems, it is one of the most valuable. It also serves to protect the communities along the coast from many natural disasters. It certainly has earned a special place in the hearts of the local communities. The health of the community is often measured by the health of the mangrove.
The Seedlings Are Ready
The amazing mangroves are filled with seedling, ready to drop off and take root. This process continues and keeps the mangroves thick and lush. As the mangroves replenish themselves year after year, so their value as a storm break for the main island increases. The thicker the mangrove, the less that any tropical storm will harm the villages that depend on them for protection.
Gathering The Seedlings 
On occasion someone comes along to help the seedlings out. Eventually the seedlings will fall into the water and reproduce on their own, but a little help assures that more of the seedlings take root and grow. Sometimes it is just nice to receive a helping hand, as each seedling is very important to the ecosystem.
A Helping Hand

Wild And Wonderful Buddha’s Hand Citron

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Buddha's Hand Citron

 Sweet Buddha’s Hand Citron

The mysterious Buddha’s Hand Citron is sweet and aromatic. Even though it appears like a lemon gone wild, it a completely different fruit in the Citron family. Some varieties have the aroma of lemon blossoms, while others smell more like lavender. It is sweet! It has no pulp! It is free of any juice. So now we know what it is, let’s discover the secret of how to use this mysterious fruit.

It has no pulp or juice. It looks like a lumpy lemon with fingers. It is also mostly rind. It sells in the stores around New Years in many places throughout the world. Beware, this delicacy can come with a high price tag. The Buddha’s Hand Citron usually  costs around 24.00 a pound. So why is it so special? Buddha’s Hand Citron is served around New Years in Japan, China, and other Asian countries. It is believed to symbolize long life, happiness, and prosperity.

Unlike most other members of the citron family, the Buddha’s Hand Citron does not have a bitter rind. Rather, this rind is very sweet. For this reason, it candies very nicely. Buddha’s Hand Citron is usually eaten candied at Lunar New Years.

How to candy Buddha’s Hand Citron

Wash and dry the citron. Cut the citron into pieces. Put in a pan and cover with water and blanch the citron in simmering water for about 30-40 minutes. They should be translucent. Drain and use about 2 cups citron to 3 cups honey. Bring to a boil and then cook till the temp reaches 230 degrees F. If you don’t have a candy thermometer, cook until the syrup is very thick and almost gone. Be very careful not to burn the citron. Remove from heat and let the citron remain in the syrup for one to two hours. When done, strain off syrup and roll in a raw natural sugar and place on a wire rack overnight to dry. If you do not want to use right away, you can leave the citron in the syrup, and keep in the refrigerator. It will keep in the syrup for up to a year. The syrup that is drained off can be kept to flavor things like liquor or coffee. You can also pour over vanilla ice cream, plain yogurt, waffles or pancakes. Just use your imagination, you will discover many uses for the syrup.

You can store the dried citron in a jar and keep at room temperature for a few weeks. You can also keep the jar in the refrigerator and it will last several months.

Buddha’s Hand Citron is a fun fruit to work with. Google has recipes for Buddha’s Hand Good Luck Marmalade, pancakes, and even laundry soap. The uses for this wild fruit are numerous. As the Lunar New Year is approaching, Asian Markets world-wide will have these lucky fruits. As Asian cooks find the Buddha’s Hand Citron, you can be sure that it will be prepared in many ways. Make this the New Year that you take a ride on the wild side and candy up some delightful Buddha’s Hand Citron for New Years. There is nothing like a Buddha’s Hand Citron for a kitchen adventure.

https://www.exploretraveler.com

Published with permission on Steemit at:

https://steemit.com/food/@exploretraveler/wild-and-wonderful-buddha-s-hand-citron

 

Durian Fruit Of Southeast Asia

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Durian Fruit of Southeast Asia
Hong Kong night market with many international selections.

           Durian Fruit Of Southeast Asia

Durian Fruit is known through-out all of China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and other Southeast Asian Countries, as the “King of Fruits!” It is one of the most beneficial fruits there is in all of Asia.  The Durian Fruit is believed to help relieve constipation, bloating, gas, and indigestion. It helps you in  prevention of Osteoporosis! The Durian Fruit will give you an excellent nights sleep. It is believed to  reduce heart disease and will aid in the maintaining of a healthy blood pressure. Many Doctors say that it  helps in the prevention of Cancer, Asthma, and infertility. It is believed to  delay premature aging, age spots, and macular degeneration. These are all things that Alternative Medicine uses the Durian plant for.  The Chinese, Taiwanese, and Indians use the Durian plant to assist in the prevention and control of these diseases and others. With a list of benefits like this, why would anyone  not want to eat one a day?

The many health benefits of this “King of Fruits” come from the Durian Fruits impressive vitamin and minerals. It contains large amounts of Vitamin C, B6, and A. It has impressive amounts of folic acid, thiamine, riboflavin, and niacin. It is loaded with minerals like potassium, iron, calcium, and magnesium. You will find large amounts of sodium, zinc, and phosphorus. It is loaded with phytonutrients, water, protein, and beneficial dietary fiber and fat. Even more than the Avocado. One a day would give you everything you needed. So why not rush out and buy a few today?

Many people find that migraines, fatigue, anxiety, and cognitive malfunction become a thing of the past. People who eat it regularly say that Dementia and Alzheimer’s are hardly seen in this group. So wouldn’t it be good to eat it regularly? Many in Asia due just that. It does have one minor problem that has caused it not to be seen in many cafes or restaurants…….it has a slightly stinky odor. But if you can get it past your nose, it is worth the effort!

For those not used to it, the smell is slightly overwhelming! If you can get it past your nose and not gag, the taste is not too bad. Below is the Durian Challenge of the Summer of 2014, when the Explore Traveler Team decided to cut a Durian.  Of course we like to choose the youngest member of the team to do our video. It is worth noting that all members of the team are eating of the fruit. He seems to have the most interesting reactions. Enjoy the Durian Fruit Challenge!

https://www.youtube.com/v/apyj0ipfJ9o?fs=1%E2%80%B2%E2%80%B2

So what are you willing to do for good health? Can you eat the King of Fruits? It really is not as bad as it looks! Just think of all the good things it will do for your health! Taiwan invites you to come and to experience the famous Durian Fruit for yourself. It really is a medical miracle in one fruit! Enjoy all Taiwan has to offer and get well while you are here! Now that is awesome! Adventure is waiting in Taiwan. See you there!

Exploretraveler.com

This is also an authorized post on seemit under @exploretraveler at: https://steemit.com/treanding/@exploretraveler/exploring-more-of-the-backroads-of-washington

 

Komodo Dragons Malaysia Today and Tomorrow

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Komodo Dragon
Komodo Dragon on remote Tiomon Island Malaysia

Komodo Dragons of Malaysia

Komodo Dragons of Malaysia are real and alive in 2014! When we think of dragons we think of legends, Chinese folklore, stories of the past, but this little one is alive and living on Tioman Island, Malaysia. So what exactly is the Komodo Dragon?

Komodo Dragons, also called Monitor Lizards, are found throughout Africa, Asia, New Guinea, Australia, and yes, even in the Everglades of Florida. These lizards are rare and are highly protected. There is a large number of Komodo Dragons on Tioman Island in the Malaysian State of Pahang. Komodo Dragons are the largest living lizard on earth. The ancestors of the Komodo Dragon go back over 100 million years.

Komodo Dragons were discovered during WWI when a plane crashed into the Komodo Sea. The pilot swam to Komodo Island and that is where they were first seen in modern times.

Komodo Dragons are the largest lizard known to be living on earth. They are often as much as 10 feet long and 155 pounds. They are known to run at speeds of up to 12 miles an hour. Komodo Dragons mainly eat fruit and other vegetation. They are excellent swimmers and move from island to island looking for food. It is rare to see them swimming out in the open sea, however. Who knows, maybe they were one of the first vegetarians!

Komodo Dragons can lay from 7-37 eggs at a time. The life span of the Komodo Dragon is thought to be around 50 years in the wild. The current population is thought to be around 5,700. Most Komodo Dragons live on the Komodo Islands in Indonesia. Even though they have no known predators, they are an endangered species. Their greatest threat are humans and the hunting of deer and water buffalo. Since the creation of the Komodo National Park, this giant lizard has been increasing in numbers slowly.

So on your next venture to Asia, take a look at the many dragon statues, listen to the stories, and remember, dragons are alive and well in 2014. So come on out to the Komodo Islands and see the only known dragon of our time. Read about his ancestors and you will never look at Chinese folklore the same again. Komodo Dragons are waiting to be a part of your next adventure. It is not too early to book your next Asian adventure.

For more information and travel suggestions check out our web sites at:

Exploretraveler.com

https://www.pinterest.com/exploretraveler/i-love-malaysia/

 

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