Yesterday was a very important milestone for me: my first live TV interview and performance! When I opened the email sent by the producer of Bella NTV7, my heart literally skipped a beat. At first I thought it would just be an interview, but they also requested for me to sing as well as demonstrate a healthy dish. What an honour! I spent a week stressing about this: outfit, song choice, dish to cook, etc etc and finally the day arrived.

I was lucky to get some decent sleep before the show, as I had a gig the night before as well. But nothing could have prepared me for one of the most nerve wrecking experiences to date. I suppose first time is always difficult. Here are some pictures:

I was a little shaky at this point but luckily didn’t forget any lyrics. It was a strange experience because throughout the performance, I was directed to look at different cameras at different timing. Finished the song without collapsing on the floor, which was a good start. Haha. By the way, I sang “Moving On”, one of my originals, you can take a listen here.

I looked so serious here. She asked some really good questions and I was more together at that point so hopefully the interview sounded alright. I think my dress really blends with the floral background.

After the commercial break, we moved to the brand new kitchen (it is a brand new set by the way). I’m proud to say that I’m the first person to actually cook in the studio! We talked about the Paleo Diet, and some common misconceptions people have with eating healthy. While I cook a very simple but delicious dish: Poached Salmon in Coconut Milk (recipe to follow later).

Well, that was definitely a good learning experience for me. I hope there will be more shows like this to come and maybe this singing cook thing can really take off! By the way, that dish was delicious and Elaine definitely enjoyed it. We fed the staff after the show and they were most appreciative too.

And here is the dish I cooked:

They wanted something fast, simple and healthy. Special request: something that doesn’t produce smoke. Hence this recipe was born! I am currently going through a Thai Food phase so it does have a little Thai influence.

The aroma of the coconut milk broth is incredible and this only took no more than 15 minutes to cook. Suitable for busy career women, mums, students and basically everyone who loves fish.

Poached Salmon in Coconut Milk (Gluten-free, Dairy Free, Sugar Free)

2 Salmon Fillets
200ml Coconut Milk
100ml Vegetable Stock
2 Garlic cloves, smashed
1 stalk lemongrass, smashed and chopped
1 shallot, diced
Salt and Freshly ground pepper to taste
Coriander, to garnish
1-2 Red Chili or Chili Padi

Place the coconut milk, vegetable stock, garlic, ginger, lemongrass and shallot in a small pot/pan with lid.

Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce to simmer for a few minutes. Season to taste.

Add the Salmon fillets, keeping the heat low. Cover and cook for 4-5 minutes (turning once), depending on the thickness of the fillets, or desired doneness. Be careful not to overcook.

Carefully remove the fish from the poaching liquid and set side on a dish while let the liquid continue to simmer on a higher heat. Stirring occasionally to prevent burning.

To serve, place the salmon fillets on individual plates, pour the reduced broth over the fillets and garnish with coriander, arugula and sliced chili. Enjoy with a side of steamed vegetable of your choice. I served mine with Arugula on the show, and with bok choy and asparagus at home.

I like my salmon still slightly raw inside for that tenderness. You can choose to let it go for a little longer but salmon cooked this way will be quite soft and silky anyway.

If you missed out on the show and want to catch it online. You can log on to http://www.tonton.com.my and look for episode 223.