清明, 一场迟到的相见 Qing Ming – A Belated Reunion

家庭旧时照片 family photo from the past

清明, 一场迟到的相见

风起
掀起秀发的波澜,
吹散了思绪与回忆,
却吹不走
亲情的思念。

雨落
模糊了几代人的脚印,
迷乱了方向与归径,
也掩不住
重温昔日美好的意念。

幼时
有父母遮风挡雨,
兄姐呵护疼爱。
虽家贫屋小,素衣俭食,
却在无明中,蕴着天伦之乐。

那年,
十八离家,求学在外,
谁料一别竟成永诀。
心中始终压抑着——
那份欲养而亲不待的沉痛。

缅怀
深情盈溢旧时光,
骨灰坛内外,两界相望。
清明墓拜,
唤起一声久别重逢的叹息。

家书
在时间的流逝中默默珍藏,
字迹淡了,
也抹不去您临别的叮咛。
迟到的相见,
如梦回故人曾走过的脚步。

c.h.e.f andy

=====================

published on 20.4.2025

see my English translation 👇🏻

清明, 一场迟到的相见 Qing Ming – A Belated Reunion

The wind rises
Lifting up the wavy hair,
Dispersing thoughts and memories,
Yet unable to blow away
The longing, born of kinship.

The rain falls
Blurring generations of footprints,
Messing up paths and directions,
Yet failing to conceal
The cherished memories of days gone by.

In Childhood days
Parents shielded me from wind and rain,
Siblings guarded and loved me.
Though the family was poor and living spaces small, and clothes and meals were plain,
we lived the simple joy of a happy family.

That year
I left home at eighteen to pursue my studies overseas
Who could have known the parting was also the last farewell?
my heart thus harboured this deep sorrow of having loved ones already departed when I have the wherewithals to care for them

Remembrance
Overflowing with tender memories of the past,
From inside and outside the urn, two worlds gaze upon each other.
Qing Ming worship
Summons a sigh—of reunion after long separation.

The letter from home
Silently treasured through the passage of time,
Its ink now faded,
Yet it cannot erase your parting words.
This belated reunion
Feels like waking from a dream, retracing the steps once walked by those now departed.

没有天上掉下来的馅饼-防诈骗 Avoid Being Scammed

浜松市, 静冈县,Hamamatsu, Shizuoka 28.11.2024

没有天上掉下来的馅饼
-防诈骗

人年纪大了
会有些莫名的恐惧
走路跑步怕跌到, 驾车担心出事
总怕行差踏错

年轻时轻描淡写的事
现在裹足不前,甚至会惶恐?

只想安安稳稳度过晚年
经不起惊吓
经不起折腾
没想要走出舒适区

人生是多面多维度的
在某事某行很成功自信
走出了舒适区也会战战兢兢
犯错了也可能毁了自信

人生也经历过几许惊涛骇浪
也都平平稳稳度过
成败得失都成过去
远离拼搏沙场

莫让平静的湖面掀起了波澜
信心自尊心受到严重打击
而失控失去判断
一时没了舵

劳碌一生
老来自当安享清幽
没必要去求富贵荣华
紧守不要失去所有

世间没有不劳而获
没有天上掉下来的馅饼
只有辛勤奔赴
方能实现梦想

c.h.e.f andy

========================

published on 31.3.2025

my English translation 👇

There is no such thing as a Free Lunch
avoid being scammed

as people age
an unexplained sense of fear creeps in
afraid of falling when walking or running, worried about accidents when driving
constantly fearing missteps

things once taken lightly in youth
now cause hesitation, even anxiety

all one wants is a peaceful old age
no shocks
no turmoil
no desire to leave the comfort zone

life has many facets and dimensions
one may be successful and confident in one area
yet stepping out of the comfort zone can cause one to tremble in fear
a single mistake can shatter one’s confidence

having braved more than a few stormy seas
and sailed through safely and steadily
successes and failures belong to the past
the days of struggle left far behind

let not the calm waters be disturbed
confidence and self-esteem suffering a severe blow
can lead to sudden loss of control and loss of judgment
adrift and directionless without ruddle

having toiled a lifetime
one should enjoy a peaceful old age
there’s no need to chase wealth and glory
just hold on tight and don’t lose one’s life’s savings

there is no reward without effort
there is no such thing as a free lunch
only through hard work
can we realise our dreams

肉骨茶 Bakuteh

自制肉骨茶, homecooked bkt, 23.10.2017

肉骨茶

肉骨茶
风靡东南亚
家喻户晓
新加坡美食,传情千里

浓郁鲜甜
胡椒飘香的肉汤
肥瘦均衡的龙骨
肥而不腻,Q弹带劲
鲜味入喉,唇齿留芳

美味的情缘
蕴含血汗心酸
早年过埠,为了温饱
不论年老年幼
在码头当苦力
只为挣一口饭

骨头熬汤
便宜、便利、填饱、补充精力
方有力气熬过
烈日当头,重担压身
热气蒸腾,汗流浃背
出卖劳力的日子
青春也刻上皱纹

古早味
精烹细熬,清香回甘
配搭酥脆油条
泡在汁中肉香入味
咬一口鲜香喷溢
再来一口功夫茶
人间美味, 此生足矣

c.h.e.f andy

=========================

published on 31.3.2025

see my English translation 👇

肉骨茶 Bakuteh

Bakuteh
a sensation across Southeast Asia
a household name
a Singaporean delicacy, bearer of emotive connections far beyond

rich and savoury
a broth infused with the fragrance of white pepper
prime pork ribs, perfectly balanced in lean and fat
tender yet firm, indulgent yet not greasy
a burst of umami lingers on the palate

a bond of love tied to taste experience
steeped in blood and tears
in the early days, immigrants, to earn a livelihood
young and old alike
toiled as dock labourers – “coolies”
a daily struggle, just to earn a meal

pork bones, simmered into broth
affordable, convenient, fill the stomach, restore the strength
only then could they endure
the scorching sun, the crushing loads
the searing heat, sweat soaking the backs
the days of backbreaking labor
where even the face of youth is lined with wrinkles of time

traditional taste
slowly brewed to aromatic perfection, with lingering sweetness
best paired with 油条 crispy dough fritters
soak in the broth, absorb its richness
a bite unleashes a burst of flavour
followed with a sip of 功夫茶
a taste of heaven, a life fulfilled

生活的节奏 The Rhythm of Life

济州岛海边日出 sunrise @ haemajihaean-ro, Jeju 4nov2024

生活的节奏

早起健步街坊
清晓寂静微曦
朝霞染金云隙
天际旭日窥探
金辉点燃树梢
掀起朝气流光

邻里陆续苏醒
起床梳洗早膳
忙碌备理家常
上学上班买菜
车辆行人川流
新的一天繁杂

城市的脉搏
有规律地跳动
社会如同一头壮伟的巨兽
在宏观的脉络间息息运转

每个人
在这浩瀚的躯体上
随着生活的节奏韵律
在各自的轨道上奔忙

齿轮交结
协调无间地运作
却又各自拥有一方天地
那是属于自己的幸福
在繁忙中悄然绽放

c.h.e.f andy

==================

published on 30.3.2025

see my English translation 👇

生活的节奏 The Rhythm of Life

waking early for a brisk walk in the neighbourhood
the dawn is quiet, bathed in soft glow
the morning hue edges the border of the clouds and slowly dyes them in gold
as the rising sun peeks over the horizon,
golden rays lit up the treetops
bringing forth energy for a new day

neighbours wake one after another
rising, washing up, and having breakfast
busy and ready for daily routines
sending children to school, heading to work, buying groceries
cars and pedestrians begin flowing like a river
another day unfolds in bustling rhythm

the city’s pulse
beats with steady rhythm
society, like a mighty beast,
thrive and move ceaselessly as a macro organism

each person
a part of this vast body
follows the rhythm of life
rushing about along his own orbit

clogs and wheels engage
turn in seamless coordination
yet each person holds a space of his own
a happiness that belongs to oneself
that blooms quietly amidst a busy day

当你老了 When You Are Old

静冈市松林观富士山日落, Mt Fuji sunset@ Miho no Matsubara, Shizuoka 29.11.2024

当你老了

当你老了
还有老伴相陪左右
同步晚年?

当你孤单
可有昔日好友哥们
聊天叙旧?

当你乏了
能觅得一处属于自己的宁静
修复还原?

当你病了
会有家人亲人陪伴
细心照料?

当你老态龙钟
你的世界会愿意放缓脚步
让你跟上?

酌酒恋黄昏,晚霞醉君眸
秋凉人烟寂,华发悄上头
芳华随花落,流水不重逢
年华依梦老,秋意入夜深
历历生前事,淡淡身后名

c.h.e.f andy

===================

published on 27.3.2025

my English translation 👇

当你老了 When You Are Old

when you are old
will your loved one still be by your side
walking in lock-step through the twilight years?

when you feel lonely
will your old pals still be there
chatting and reminiscing the past?

when you are weary
will you find a shelter of quietude of your own
to heal and restore?

when you fall ill
will your family and loved ones
stay by your side and take care of you?

when you are aged and frail
will the world slow down for you
so you can keep up?

sipping wine, enamored with the dusk; the evening glow intoxicates your gaze
autumn chills, the world grows silent, silver hair creeps upon my head
youth fades like falling petals, like water flowing past, never to meet again
years grow old in dreams, autumn deepens into the night
the past lingers vividly, while all fades gently with death

郑漫星仁/秀外慧中

郑漫星仁
秀外慧中

我写给我侄孙女郑漫星的题诗😎

苑钟灵毓才

天繁华浮云

河蕴含无上

爱齐家乐心

my English translation 👇

a poem using the name of my grandniece 郑漫星

the garden of Zheng 郑 is a blessed place that nurtures outstanding talent

an entire sky filled with bustling prosperity is but impermanent and illusory, beyond the drifting clouds

the galaxy of stars hold infinite wisdom

with love and compassion, manage the family in good harmony, and bring joy to the heart

c.h.e.f andy

published on 4mar2025

南怡岛之秋 Autumn on Nami Island

南怡岛枫林 Nami Island maple forest 1.11.2024
南怡岛滑索 Nami Island zip line 1.11.2024
南怡岛银杏落叶 Nami Island gingko leaves 1.11.2024
南怡岛银杏林 Nami Island gingko forest 1.11.2024
南怡岛鸵鸟村 Nami Island ostrich sanctuary 1.11.2024

南怡岛之秋

南怡岛
远眺
秋天落叶,秋意盈漫
枫叶
火焰飘曳点燃了树梢
随着时间的脚步
铺满遍地残红

空滑索
仰望
一线流星,划破蓝空
凌驾
天神之威势临空而降
89米高塔940米地
跨空飞越岛河

银杏树
近观
迎风轻舞,摇首弄姿
杏叶
数千黄折扇挥之潇洒
顺着入秋的步伐
撒满落地黄金

游池塘
环视
水鸭列阵,鲤鱼戏水
鸵鸟
鹤立园中鉴日月时空
伴着镜月的时针
追溯昔日芳华

c.h.e.f andy

====================

published on 1.3.2025

see my English translation 👇

南怡岛之秋 Autumn on Nami Island

Nami Island
gazing into the distance
leaves falling, the mood of autumn brimming and spreading
maple leaves
like flickering flames, they ignite the treetops
with the passage of time
they cover the ground in a tapestry of the crimson past

the Zip Line
looking up
a shooting star streaks, slicing through the blue sky
soaring
with the might of a deity descending from above
from an 89-meter tower, across 940 meters
flying over the islands and river

ginkgo trees
up close
dancing gently in the wind, swaying with grace
ginkgo leaves
thousands of yellow fans fluttering elegantly
following the footsteps of autumn
scattering golden hue across the ground

viewing the pond
looking around
ducks in formation, carps playing in the water
ostriches
standing tall in the garden, witnessing the passage of sun, moon, time and space
accompanied by the illusory hour hand of the moon in the mirror
retracing the transient beauty of youth

香嵐渓 Korankei Gorge

香嵐渓 Korankei Gorge 27.11.2024
香嵐渓 Korankei Gorge 27.11.2024
香嵐渓枫月夜 Korankei Gorge autumn colours lit up 27.11.2024

香嵐渓 Korankei Gorge

香嵐渓
枫叶煽火红遍野
银杏溪畔一树黄
秋林闲步,秋色弥漫

待月橋
巴川清澈天籁音
枫裹待月流溪凉
枫树隧道,红毯轻步

五色枫
微风摇曳五彩霞
青紅橙黃绿满荫
华丽辉映,山川入画

飯盛山 (Mt limori)
红云染图半边天
满山枫叶秋意浓
拾级登高,清心怡神

巴桥
醉燈挑起丹霞夢
千盏迷幻枫月夜
两岸鍍金,绚丽梦幻

c.h.e.f andy

==================

published on 25feb2025

see my English translation 👇

香嵐渓 Korankei Gorge

Korankei
maple leaves fan the hills in fiery red
a lone ginkgo by the side of the stream is shrouded in gold
stroll through the autumn forest, and bath in the colors of fall

Taigetsu Bridge
clear waters of Tomoe River play out nature’s music
maple canopy over taigetsu bridge and the flowing stream spread out coolness
walk the maple tunnel, and step softly on the red carpet

Goshiki Maple (5 colour maple)
maple leaves sway in the gentle breeze like five-coloured clouds
green, red, orange, yellow, lush greenery offering the shade
a dazzling tapestry, the mountain and river woven into an art piece

Mt. Iimori
crimson clouds colour half the sky
the mountain is ablazed with autumn’s embrace
take a step, climb higher, the air is crisp and refreshing

leaning by Tomoe Bridge
in drunken stupor, the lanterns lit up a scarlet dream
a thousand lights enchant the maple moonlit night
golden gleam on both shores of Tomoe, a breathtaking, ethereal sight

时光,生命,缘分

竹岛,三岛村 日出 Takeshima, Mishima sunrise 28.11.2024

时光,生命,缘分

时光
不留人
单程车票
单向的前进
没犹豫没反顾
不停留不会等待
没人,可以驱使左右

人生
没重来
穷极一生
计成败得失
纠结爱恨情仇
在岁月的洪流里
都是,瞬间过眼云烟

生命
啥意义?
奔波忙碌
经悲欢离合
尝尽喜怒哀乐
在光阴的涟漪里
曾经,泡影般飘散去

思悟
圆因果
发挥潜力?
或活在当下
极其体验人生
在时间的长河里
蕴藏,什么玄妙天机?

缘分
是偶然
稍纵即逝
守一生一世
还是擦肩而过?
在轮回的罗盘里
错过,还是无限重复?

c.h.e.f andy

=======================

published on 22.2.2025

my English translation 👇

Time, Life, Fate

Time
waits for no one
a one-way ticket
moving forward, only one direction
no hesitation, no looking back
never stops, never waits
no one, can command or control it

Life
no second chances
a lifetime spent
in obsession with success and failure
and entanglement in the web of love and hate
yet in the torrent that is the passage of time
everything, is but fleeting mist

Life’s Meaning
what is it?
rushing and toiling
experience sorrow, joy, separation and reunion
having tasted the full spectrum of emotions
in the ripples of time
all that have been, float and vanish like a bubble

Contemplation
complete the cycle of cause and effect
and realise one’s full potential?
or simply living in the here and now
fully embracing life’s experiences
within the endless river of time
is there hidden, some cosmic truth?

Fate
a mere chance
fleeting in an instant
to hold and keep for a lifetime
or just brush past each other?
within the compass of reincarnation
do we miss it and pass over, or endlessly repeat?

给自己的一封信 A Letter to Myself

元宵 chap go meh 12feb2025

给自己的一封信

如果
给50年前的我
写一封信
我会说些什么呢?

1975年
祖母隔年便仙逝
父母才刚过六旬,不是很老
却没能再活过5年

哥姐
已然为人师表
灵魂导师,循循善诱
造就桃李满天下

正逢
新加坡经济暴涨、突飞猛进
十年的快速增长
社会面貌、格局在更新

我会说
多陪伴祖母、父母
哪怕没啥交流
就算只是无语相伴
也是彼此欢颜、愉悦
一生珍藏的记忆

我会说
多关心哥姐
多深入了解、交流
日常生活中多熟悉
彼此起居、日需、爱恶
亲情无价,没有替代

我会说
做人最重要有底气
才能有原则,不为人动摇、左右
底气来自内涵
先要自强不息,奋发图强
有学识、有技能、有见地

每个人
际遇不同
人生很多时候,也看缘分
无论命运
丢给你啥样骰子
好活歹活还是自己说了算

人生嘛
没有再来一次,却可以
感恩从今天起,能
好好活够往后的每一天
好好落实要给自己
50年前说的话

c.h.e.f andy

===================

published on 12.2.2025

see my English translation 👇

给自己的一封信 A Letter to Myself

If
I were to write a letter
to myself 50 years ago
what would I say?

1975
my grandmother passed away the following year
my parents had just turned sixty, though not very old yet
they did not live past another five years

my older brother and sister
had already become role models—
spiritual guides, gently leading the way
nurturing countless disciples across the land

it was also the time
when Singapore’s economy was booming and leaping forward
a decade of rapid growth
the face, vision and mindset of society already in a major transformation

I would say:
spend more time with grandmother, mom and dad
even if there isn’t much to say
even if it’s just silent companionship
it will still bring mutual smiles and joy—
a memory to cherish for a lifetime

I would say:
care more about brother and sister
take time to truly understand and communicate with them
familiarize with each other’s daily routines, needs, likes, and dislikes
familiar love is priceless and irreplaceable

I would say:
the most important thing in life is to have inner strength
so you can stand by your principles without being swayed by others
that strength comes from within—
first, strive ceaselessly for self-improvement and success
be knowledgeable, skilled, and insightful

everyone’s
circumstances differ in life
so much depends on fate
no matter what kind of dice
destiny rolls for you
whether the outcome is good or bad ultimately you decide how to live it

after all
life comes only once, yet you can start by being grateful from today—
live each day to its fullest
and truly put into practice
the words i want to tell myself
50 years ago

赠我 Gift to Me

赠我

赠我一对乐恩的眼睛
秋水清澈,星星闪烁
深邃,蘊含
无上智慧的大眼睛
善好施,感福修
传承千古的仁者

赠我一翩乐瑄的风采
书勤道, 品学兼优
纵横, 盛溢
玉献世的风采
才华横溢,高风亮节
朴实无华的圣者

赠我一双俊利的手
才卓越,鸞鳳翔天
舉善,造福
人濟世的手
奋发勤政,一心奉道
德才兼备的能者

赠我一颗星颖的心
日月辰,千秋蘊慧
麗、俊秀
真挚善美的心
心系寰宇,鴻鵠之志
美慧志全的智者

c.h.e.f andy

注:

得赠我孙儿女,外孙儿女

==================

published on 9.2.2025

my English translation 👇

赠我 Gift to Me

Gift to me the eyes of 乐恩
clear as autumn waters, twinkling like stars
deep and imbued
big eyes that harbor supreme wisdom
kind and charitable, grateful to accumulate blessings
a benevolent one whose virtue endures through the ages

Gift to me the elegance of 乐瑄
joyful in study, diligent in following the Way
exemplary in both character and scholarship
vast and overflowing
being the elegance of a precious gem offered to the world
brimming with talent, noble and upright
a saintly one of unadorned simplicity

Gift to me the hands of 俊利
outstanding in talent, soaring like mythical birds and phoenixes to the heavens
hands that uplift goodness, that bestow blessings
helping others and enriching the world
industrious in endeavor, wholeheartedly devoted to the Way
a capable one who possesses both virtue and ability

Gift to me the heart of 星颖
like the sun, moon, and stars—imbued with wisdom accumulated through the ages
elegant and outstanding
a heart that is sincere and pure
caring for the world, with aspirations lofty as a swan taking flight
a wise one whose beauty, wisdom, and ambition are complete

P.S.

gifted to me – all my 4 grandchildren

四季樱(Shikizakura)

shikizakura 四季樱, Obara Fureai Park 小原ふれあい公園
shikizakura 四季樱, Obara Fureai Park 小原ふれあい公園

四季樱

四季樱花,自然奇观
花开两季,春秋绽放
三月十月,双节共赏
芳华再现,诗情复燃

山野湖川,落叶知秋
火焰枫林,银杏金装
红叶白樱,交相辉映
春秋同舞,画意依然

花期跨季,秋冬盛放
寒露屹立,清雅芬芳
枫叶煽火,樱瓣飘霜
珠璧交辉,四季流转

秋风掀起了
红白色浪漫
艳红的诱惑
雪白的潔净
瓣叶出意境
秋色入诗画
心境在提升
神魂在穿越
古今原此地
天涯还此时

c.h.e.f andy

===================

published on 2.2.2025

my english translation 👇

Shikizakura (Four-Season Cherry Blossoms)

shikizakura, a breathtaking natural spectacle
flowering in two seasons—spring and autumn
in March and October, flower viewing in both spring and autumn seasons
youth and beauty is reborn, poetic sentiments rekindled

mountains, wilderness, lakes, and rivers, falling leaves mark the arrival of autumn
maple forests a fiery red, ginkgo trees in slates of gold
red leaves and white shikizakura blossoms intertwine, bringing out and enhancing each other’s beauty
dancing together in spring and autumn — the artistic mood is enduring and timeless

with a flowering period spanning across seasons, shikizakura flourishes through autumn and winter
standing firm in exposure to the cold, exuding pure elegance
maple leaves fan the spread of red like fire, shikizakura petals flutter and float like frost
a radiant harmony of red leaves and white shikizakura, as the seasons revolve

the autumn wind lifts up
a romance of red and white—
the allure of crimson
the purity of snow-white
shikizakura petals and maple leaves brings up artistic conception
autumn colours weave into poetry and art
an uplifting of the state of mind
a journey of the consciousness through time
past and present return to this very place
the end boundaries of the earth is back at this very time

白斩鸡饭 Chicken Rice

白斩鸡饭

白斩鸡
风靡东南亚
无鸡不成宴
新加坡餐馆、熟食中心
都不能少的
经典美食

鲜甜滑润
鸡皮晶莹剔透
肉质细嫩多汁
原汁原味,滑而不腻
有着淡淡的鸡香,令人
回味无穷

鸡饭亦是一绝
鸡油、鸡汤、姜、蒜烹煮的
香喷喷大米饭
蒜蓉、辣椒酱、黑酱油
添味提鲜,着实
神仙美食

洗净鸡身盐按摩
备水盐姜蒜萝卜
水开小滚鸡下锅
熄火温泡原汁封
冰浴颖献晶滑鸡
去骨熬汤蓄精华
鸡汤浓郁香鸡饭
油润不腻老少馋

c.h.e.f andy

=======================

published on 1.2.2025

my english translation 👇

白斩鸡饭 Chicken Rice

poached chicken
a sensation across Southeast Asia
no feast is complete without chicken
from Singapore restaurants to hawker centers
this is a must-have
classic gourmet dish

fresh, sweet, and silky smooth
its skin translucent and glistens like crystal
the meat—juicy, delicate, and tender
retaining its pure, natural taste, smooth but not greasy
rich in subtle chicken aroma
it lingers on the palate
unforgettable

the chicken rice is a masterpiece too—
the fragrant rice
cooked with chicken fat, chicken broth, ginger and garlic
paired with minced garlic sauce, chili sauce, and dark soy sauce
enhancing flavor and enriching taste, truly
divine

clean the chicken, massage with salt
prepare pot of water with salt, cut ginger, garlic, and carrots
bring to a gentle boil, submerge the chicken
turn off the heat, let chicken poach, sealing in the juices
ice bath brings out the crystal, silky smooth chicken
debone chicken, boil the bones, and reduce to rich broth
the flavourful chicken rice is fully infused with fragrant chicken stock
aromatic and silky, loved by all ages

福建面 Hokkien Mee

福建面 Hokkien Mee CNY DAY 1 – 29.1.2025

福建面

黄澄澄
滑润润
鲜美食材,秀色可餐

香喷喷
热腾腾
炊香环绕,入口绝妙

味鲜鲜
香飘飘
色香味全,垂涎三尺

福建炒面
新洲美食
鲜虾高汤
锅气镬味
五花肉片
明虾墨鱼
鱼饼芽菜
熟面粗粉
清香爽口
色泽滑润
鲜味十足
唇齿留香

高炉热锅手掌铲
热油花肉蒜炊香
熟面鲜虾快翻炒
粗粉食材全盘端
鲜虾头壳浓鸡汤
高汤入锅扑鼻香
色香鲜味勾食欲
佳肴美食共品尝

c.h.e.f andy

=================

published on 30.1.2025

my english translation 👇

福建面 Hokkien Mee

golden yellow
smooth and glistening
fresh ingredients, a feast for the senses

fragrant and aromatic
steaming hot
the enticing scent surrounds the stove, an absolute delight

rich in umami
aroma surrounds
a perfect harmony of color, aroma, and flavor—mouthwatering!

fried hokkien mee
a signature dish of Singapore
savory prawn broth
wok hei-infused aroma
pork belly slices
juicy prawns and squid
fish cakes and bean sprouts
yellow noodles and laksa thick beehoon
light, fragrant and delightful
colour texture smooth and glistening
bursting with umami
leaving a lingering taste on the lips and teeth

roaring flames, hot wok and spatula in hand
hot oil sizzles as belly pork and garlic release their fragrance
yellow noodles and prawns tossed in quick, skillful strokes
add laksa thick beehoon and all other ingredients
stock from prawn heads and shells enrich with thick chicken broth
as the stock hits the wok, the air is filled with irresistible aroma
a dish with colour, aroma, taste so inviting
a delicacy to be savored and enjoyed together!

过年 Celebrate Chinese New Year

过年

年代不遗,岁月不忘
除夕团圆,中华传统世世流芳
家家有宴,户户有席
围炉守岁,家人代代欢聚一堂

时日不变,风雨不改
炎黄子孙,神州习俗生生守护
长幼有宜,老少有爱
闲话家常,父母子女共享天伦

愿蛇年好运
前方一片光辉灿烂
愿万事如意
阖家过的顺心安详

购物送礼办年货
新柔两地人如龙
芦柑鲍鱼猪肉干
蛋卷杏酥菠萝挞
金桔银柳金钱树
水仙蝶兰朱顶红

家人温馨年夜饭
岁岁团圆阖家欢
蛇年带来新气象
惜旧迎新气昂扬
张灯结彩迎新岁
拜年温旧展新貌

c.h.e.f andy

==================

published on 28.1.2025

my English translation 👇

过年 Celebrate Chinese New Year

time have not left behind, years have not forgotten
on Chinese New Year(CNY) eve, families reunite, carrying on Chinese traditions that shine through the ages
every home holds a feast, every household sets a banquet
around the steamboat, keeping watch on the countdown, generations gather together as one

steadfast through changing times and storms of uncertainty
descendants of Yan and Huang guard the customs of Chinese culture
old and young bonded through kinship, generations joined by love
engage casual family conversations, and parents and children share the joy of togetherness

may the Year of the Snake bring good fortune
with a bright and radiant path ahead
may all things go smoothly according to our wishes
and every family enjoy peace, as the heart wishes, and harmony

shopping and buying gifts and goodies for the New Year
people bustle and line up like dragons to buy goodies in Singapore and Johore
lukan, abalone, bak kwa
love letters, almond cookies, and pineapple tarts
golden kumquats, silver willows, money plants
narcissus, butterfly orchids, and festive amaryllis (holly)

a heartwarming CNY eve dinner with family
reunion year after year, a joyful occasion for all
the Year of the Snake brings new beginnings
cherishing the old and welcoming the new with vigor
hanging up lanterns and making decorations for the New Year
visiting to exchange greetings, reinforce old connections and further new ones

炒粿条 Char Kuay Teow

chye guan bought hill street ckt 14apr2021

炒粿条

炒粿条
是新加坡驰名街食
和海南鸡饭、肉骨茶、
肉脞麵、鱼圆面、虾面、
云吞面、 叻沙等
都是狮城的招牌
小贩美食

高炉热镬,镬光铲影
翻云覆雨,掀天掘地
巧手匠心,炒功镬气
金蛋裹面,赢来
腊肠、鱼饼、豆芽、甜酱油
最后来个生蛤
食客便等来了绝世美味😋

不加甜酱油,也行
那便是白粿条
镬气、香味
黑白两条,各有千秋!
我还是喜欢黑粿条
加蛤,就一个蛋
正宗古早味!

猪油渣
纯粹主义者的天堂!
搓碎成大小沙粒
在粿条面里翻炒
简直神来之笔!
添加质地、口感、鲜味
吃了,此生无悔!

c.h.e.f andy

=================

published on 26.1.2025

my english translation 👇

Char Kway Teow

char kway teow is one of Singapore’s most iconic street foods
alongside hainanese chicken rice, bak kut teh
minced meat noodles, fishball noodles, prawn noodles
wonton noodles, laksa, and more
these dishes are among the signature
Lion City’s hawker cuisine

over roaring flames, with a searing wok
the spatula dances as the wok gleams and flashes
tossing, turning, flipping, creating culinary storms
with skillful hands and craftsman’s devotion
the art of stir-frying brings forth superb “wok hei”
golden egg-coated noodles, enhanced by
chinese sausage, fish cakes, bean sprouts, and sweet soy sauce
and finally, raw cockles—
a heavenly delicacy awaits the eager diner😋

skip the sweet soy sauce? for sure
that gives you white kway teow
the “wok hei”, the aroma—
both black and white char kuay teow have their own charm!
but I still prefer black kway teow
top-up more cockles and just one egg—
the authentic old-school flavor!

and the pork lard
a purist’s paradise!
crushed into grainy bits
stir-fried with the noodles
it’s a stroke of genius!
adding texture, richness, and umami
one bite, and life feels complete, no regrets!

咖喱鸡面 Curry Chicken Noodles

curry chicken noodles @ ah heng, hong lim 13nov2024

咖喱鸡面

咖喱鸡面
我的最爱!
艳红的咖喱汤汁
若加上一勺辣椒酱
那真是无得顶!
天下美味之巅
神来佳肴
回味无穷!

粗米粉面
口感特佳
添增不同咬劲、质地
可为最佳搭配
再加咖喱入味的豆卜
还有鱼饼、潮州鱼饼
爽口的土豆, 确实
人间美馔!

咖喱鸡面不是叻沙
更不是咖喱鸡里掺面
汤汁迥然不同
和普通咖喱鸡、叻沙
都不是一个层次
鲜味、香、辣、咸、微甜
嗯,真是
实惠极品!

少不了说到白斩鸡
皮肉滑,肉质鲜甜
整齐排列面上
美观又勾食欲
把鸡肉浸入汤汁
吸收咖喱汁,入味
香艳美食,确实
不可抗拒!

c.h.e.f andy

==========================

publish on 25.1.2025

my english translation 👇

Curry Chicken Noodles

curry chicken noodles
my absolute favorite!
the bright red curry broth
with a spoonful of chili paste added—
it’s simply unbeatable!
the pinnacle of culinary delights
a delicious dish of the gods
an unforgettable taste experience!

thick beehoon, and noodles
perfect “mouthfeel”
adding different “bite” and texture
ideal companion to the dish
add on curry-infused tofu puffs
along with fish cakes and Teochew-style fish cakes
and tasty potatoes with the right “bite”—truly a gourmet feast on earth!

curry chicken noodles aren’t laksa
nor are they just curry chicken with noodles thrown in
the broth is entirely distinct from ordinary curry chicken or laksa,
in a league of its own
umami, aromatic, spicy, savoury, and slightly sweet—
ah, it’s truly
a humble yet exquisite masterpiece!

and of course, there’s the poached chicken
with smooth, silky skin and sweet, fresh meat
neatly arranged atop the noodles
it’s a feast for the eyes and triggers one’s appetite
dip the chicken in the curry broth
let it soak up the rich flavours
a dazzling culinary gem—
utterly irresistible!

四季情 Sentiments for Four Seasons

陶渊明 – 採菊东篱下,悠然见南山

四季情

秋菊东篱窥南山
深夜凭栏,月入西厢
黄钟满树十月香
清晓微光,日出扶桑

冬日海棠点点红
凌霜屹立, 香腮轻弹
寒梅傲雪露中宵
一帘幽思,两地情长

春暖花开溢芬芳
杜鹃玉兰,桃红争光
樱花三月意还乡
一缕牵挂,两心荡漾

牡丹花瘦六月天
林里踏青,野鹤山中
湖泊绿肥柳成荫
雁字翱翔,闲云长空

天地川野立舟中
掌桨乘风顺水流
疑是途穷绝境路
峰回水转彼岸丰

c.h.e.f andy

===================

published on 24.1.2025

my english translation 👇

Sentiments for Four Seasons

autumn chrysanthemums by the eastern fence peek at the southern hills
late at night standing by the railing, the moon graces the western chamber
Chinese golden bell tree in full bloom offering the fragrance of October
in the gentle light of dawn, the sun rises on Fusang

winter’s begonia dots the cold with crimson hues
standing erect against the frost, its fragrant cheeks lightly flush
plum blossoms brave the snow, exposed to the elements in the long night
one curtain filled with wistful thoughts, and enduring affection in two places

in the warmth of spring, blossoms overflow with fragrance
azaleas and magnolias, peach blossoms compete in splendor
cherry blossoms in March awaken a longing for home
one thread of care and devotion, and two hearts flutter

peonies fade, bringing forth the month of June
excursion in the woods, cranes roam free in the wild
lake brims with lush green, willows cast their shade
wild geese soar high in 《人》 letter formation, like leisurely clouds in a vast sky

standing on a boat amidst heaven and earth, rivers and the wilderness
with oars in hand, riding the wind and the current flows
what seems like a dead-end road of desperation
with a turn of the peaks and the riverbanks, reveal a far shore lush with abundance

Note:

Fusang – Fusang, mythical island in ancient literature, often interpreted as Japan

余星颖心/美慧志全

余星颖心
美慧志全

我写给我小外孙女余星颖的题诗😎

友人黄国胜老师画上了字画联🙏🌹

a poem I wrote for my granddaughter 余星颖depicting her name. my Malaysian friend, a well known calligrapher, did the wall calligraphy scroll

余莊地靈毓善美
星辰慢舞千秋慧
穎麗俊秀鴻鵠志
心系寰宇才德全

my English translation-

at Yu’s manor, the spiritual environment nurtures goodness and beauty

the star constellation gentle millennial cosmic shifts harbour wisdom through the ages

with outstanding elegance and brilliance, and lofty aspirations like a swan taking flight

the heart caring for the universe, complete with both talent and virtue

附言

这第四首诗是我写给小外孙女余星颖的题诗。

我写给小孙女郭乐恩的第一首题诗也是友人黄国胜老师画上字画联

郭乐恩传/秀手慧心🙏🌹

我写给大孙女郭乐瑄的第二首题诗也是

郭乐瑄品/才华横溢🙏🌹

我写给大外孙儿余俊利的第三首题诗也是

余俊利奋/天道酬勤 🙏🌹

c.h.e.f andy

published on 27.10.2024

余俊利奋/天道酬勤

余俊利奋
天道酬勤

我写给我大外孙儿余俊利的题诗😎

友人黄国胜老师画上了字画联🙏🌹

a poem I wrote for my grandson depicting his name. my Malaysian friend, a well known calligrapher, did the wall calligraphy scroll

余府鸞集鳳翔天
俊才卓越心奉道
利人濟世因果酬
奮發舉善造福勤

my English translation-

at Yu’s residence, auspicious birds gather, and the phoenix soars to the sky.

outstanding talent with a heart devoted to Dao《the way》

benefitting people and contributing to the world and receiving rightful rewards

with vigor and determination, doing good deeds and diligently creating blessings

附言

这第三首是我给大外孙儿余俊利的题诗。

我写给小孙女的第一首题诗也是友人黄国胜老师画上字画联

郭乐恩传/秀手慧心🙏🌹

我写给大孙女的第二首题诗也是

郭乐瑄品/才华横溢🙏🌹

c.h.e.f andy

published on 27.10.2024