THE beginning of the new school year coincides with Ramadan this year.
For working mums, this can mean a busy period of prepping meals.
Since time is of the essence, it helps to have all your ingredients well stocked in the fridge, especially curry pastes and sambals which can be turned into a variety of meals and save you the trouble of chopping, pounding and blending on a working day.
You want to aim for minimal stress and maximum flavour in the kitchen this season.
Here are some ideas from Ayam Brand to churn out quickie, easy meals for the whole family during Ramadan.
Chicken Kurma
Prep time: 10 minutes, cooking time: 20 minutes, serves: 4 to 5 pax
When little ones find chicken curry to be too spicy, chicken kurma with its mellow and comforting coriander notes is a good alternative for delicate tummies and a great way to ensure they meet their daily protein intake.
In a medium pan over medium heat, add a pack of Ayam Brand Kurma paste and saute until fragrant. Add 160g of diced potatoes, 160g of diced carrot and 600g of chicken chunks and saute until medium well.
Add 400ml of water, cover the pan with a lid and let it simmer until the chicken and potatoes are cooked. Add two red onions that have been cut into chunks, 160ml of coconut milk, and bring to the boil.
Garnish with coriander leaves and sliced red chillies. Serve with hot rice.
Daging Masak Merah
Prep time: 5 minutes, cooking time: 15 minutes, serves: 4 to 5 pax
This classic Malay favourite is a must-have for many families and is both rice in flavour and high in protein and iron.
In a wok, heat a tablespoon of cooking oil, and fry 600g of sliced sirloin beef and remove to drain.
Slice two red onions into rings, and dice one yellow capsicum, saute them in the same pan, then pour in one pack of Ayam Brand Masak Merah paste and mix well. Add the meat back in, stir well to coat, and let it simmer for a few minutes for the meat to absorb the flavours. Serve with hot rice.
Pucuk Ubi dan Udang Masak Lemak
Prep time: 5 minutes, cooking time: 15 minutes, serve: 4 to 5 pax
Among the most comforting kampung-style dishes is masak lemak that combines creaminess with a spicy kick. This version is both iron and protein rich given its combination of leafy greens and prawns.
Simmer 800ml of water, Ayam Brand Masak Lemak Cili Padi Paste and three stalks of crushed lemongrass in a pot. Add 600g of prawns, then bring to a boil until the prawns are just cooked.
Add in 600g of pucuk ubi, 800ml of coconut milk, and six turmeric leaves that have been thinly sliced. Cook until the liquid thickens into a delicious sauce. Serve with hot rice.
Kari Ikan
Prep time: 5 minutes, cooking time: 30 minutes, serve: 4 to 5 pax
Fish curry goes well with rice or bread and is a nutritious protein-packed meal. This version draws inspiration from the traditional fish curry served with "nasi dagang".
In a wok, heat Ayam Brand Fish Curry Paste until fragrant for approximately three minutes. Add 600ml of water and bring to a slow boil. Add 600g of ikan tongkol or any other fish you have together with 400ml of coconut milk and cover with a lid and simmer on low heat until the fish is cooked. Add curry leaves, and simmer for another three minutes. Garnish with red chillies and coriander.
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