Who wears short shorts?
"Who wears short shorts? dadadadadadada"
Today, it was I who wore short shorts. This is a big deal. I have pined for the days when the air is warm and richly scented of blooms and fresh grass and…sun!
On this glorious Sunday, that day finally arrived. It truly felt like Spring. It seemed that all of Melbourne was as ecstatic as I that the chill had subsided. Every man and his dog was out and about. Some prime puppy spotting was had, as we walked along Brighton beach towards Elwood.
Breakfast was first: stewed apples on greek yoghurt with granola clusters and fresh blueberries.
Instantly energised and inspired to capture some golden rays, we bounded outside for a bit of frisbee fun in the park. This was followed by grilled fish wraps in Port Melbourne. I must apologise - my hunger got the better of me and I inhaled the wrap before I remembered to photograph it :)
Later on in the afternoon, we saw 'The Arrival', a show based on the book by Shaun Tan and produced by some amazingly talented individuals. It was playing in the Melbourne Fringe Festival, and it was such a great show. The young cast (which included my little brother) were brilliant. It was an incredibly topical show too, as it told the tale of immigrants coming to Australia. All proceeds went to the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre, which is really fantastic. Great work, guys!
After the show, a sudden craving for Beef Rendang led us on a Malaysian Mission. We drove to Syndal and ate at Danny's Kopitiam, upon Ben's recommendation. Ben used to live in this area, and sometimes we get cravings for authentic, cheap Asian food that the Bayside area just cannot fulfil. The décor is that which you would expect of a no-fuss Asian restaurant - casual canteen ambiance. The owner is lovely and friendly, the serves generous and the prices fairly cheap.
Green tea for me, lemon ice tea for him.
For the eats, we shared a Beef Rendang ($16) with Roti ($3), and the Curry Laksa ($10).
Honestly, the Laska was a bit lack-luster. The fish balls were lovely, yet I found the soup to lack that certain kick, which I am so fond of in other Laksas. I am by no means a Laksa expert, but I was a bit disappointed with this dish.
The Beef Rending, however, more than made up for any Laksa let-down. Large, tender cubes of oh-so-succulent beef, nestled in a bath of thick, rich, intricately spiced sauce. This dish is pure heaven. Over dinner discussions, Ben and I agreed that this is our favourite curry style dish. Apparently it is not actually a curry, but you get my drift. I love the depth of flavour, and how it is ever so rich, yet never heavy. We had Roti alongside the beef, which was lovely and moist with a delightful crunch to the top layer. So fun to mop up the sauce with. Amazing.
After several brief and random encounters with this delicious cuisine, I see many more Malaysian Missions in the future. The Beef Rendang alone would justify the 30 minute trip to Danny's Kopitiam. As I am quite inexperienced with Malaysian cuisine, I ask whether you know of any dishes, restaurants or cooking tips that I simply must try? I would love to hear your suggestions.
And in terms of Spring sunshine…lets hope that the air stays warm so that my shorts can stay short, and I can keep humming that tune whilst puppy-spotting in the park and enjoying Frisbee fun :)