“Do you like this name?”

“No, I don’t like that name!”

Does that sound like you? Choosing a name for your baby can be an exciting yet emotional experience for new parents.

To start off with, there are thousands of beautiful names out there and yes it can be a little overwhelming.

Secondly, you might be worried that your husband (or relatives) will not like your chosen name and therefore the process starts all over again…ahh how stressful can it be, right?

In Islam, it is essential to name your child with a beautiful, nice meaningful name. This name will be used to address him/her in this life and also in the hereafter.

Tips

1.Don’t rush! You have all the time to think about baby names until you have your little one in your arms.

2. Talk about prospective names with your husband. Include your mother, mother in law and other family members in the discussion. Make them feel part of it and it certainly would make them feel happy as they would have played a part in the decision making.

3. Make sure it goes well with his/her surname. So spell out the names and say it out loud (with the surname). Usually if the surname is short, it is nice to have a long first name. For example, “Safiyyah Saad” or “Abdurrahman Jaree”. Or if the surname is long, it is nice to have a short first name. For example, “Alia Abdullah” or “Khalid Abdul-Malik”.

4. Think about whether you’d like to name your child after someone significant, after a sahabah or a prophet.

It is makrooh to deliberately name someone after immoral people such as singers and actors/actresses, etc. If they have good names, it is permissible to use those names, but it must be because of the meaning of the name and not because of the desire to imitate those people.

5. Short list the names you and your husband like.

6. Keep the list to a maximum of 5 names that you and your husband has agreed upon.

7. Choose a name that will not be used as an insult/tease later on when the child goes to school etc.

7. Pray istikarah.

8. Finally, be proud and grateful of the name that you and your husband has chosen!

Read these fatwas on Islam QA for more information :

Naming a child

Delay in naming a child

Giving children western names in order to avoid racial discrimination

Here are a few helpful Islamic websites to help you get started on choosing names:

http://www.muslimbabynames.net/

http://www.names4muslims.com/

http://www.searchtruth.com/baby_names/names.php

http://www.babynames4muslims.com/

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My sister gave me a box of London Almonds (pictured above) so I decided to make some and give them away in nice gift boxes to some friends too!

Ingredients:
240 grams butter, melted
1/2 cup castor sugar
2 cup plain flour
2 tablespoon cake flour mix
2 teaspoon custard flour mix
1 teaspoon vanila extract
400 grams almond
2 egg yolks

Ingredients for chocolate coating:
700 grams cooking chocolate (dark and milk mix together)
Some chopped peanut pieces

Method
1. Using an electric mixer, beat the sugar and butter.

2. Add in the egg yolks and vanilla extract then keep beating until fluffy.

3. Sift the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and mix with your hands to form a soft dough.

4. Grab about an inch of dough, put 1 almond inside and cover it. Roll it into  an elliptical shape.

5. Bake for about 20 minutes in 150 degrees oven.

6. Once baked, put cookies aside to cool. Once cooled, dip them into warm melted chocolate.

7. Sprinkle on top of it with some peanut bits.

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Answer:

1 – Doing ghusl before going out to the prayer.

It was narrated in a saheeh hadeeth in al-Muwatta’ and elsewhere that ‘Abd-Allaah ibn ‘Umar used to do ghusl on the day of al-Fitr before going out to the prayer-place in the morning. Al-Muwatta’ 428.

Al- Nawawi (may Allaah have mercy on him) said that the Muslims were unanimously agreed that it is mustahabb to do ghusl for Eid prayer.

The reason why it is mustahabb is the same reason as that for doing ghusl before Jumu’ah and other public gatherings. Rather on Eid the reason is even stronger.

2 – Eating before going out to pray on Eid al-Fitr and after the prayer on Eid al-Adha:

Part of the etiquette is not to go out to pray on Eid al-Fitr until one has eaten some dates, because of the hadeeth narrated by al-Bukhaari from Anas ibn Maalik, who said that the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) used not to go out on the morning of Eid al-Fitr until he had eaten some dates… of which he would eat an odd number. Al-Bukhaari, 953.

It is mustahabb to eat before going out to emphasize the fact that it is forbidden to fast on that day and to demonstrate that the fast has ended.

Ibn Hajar (may Allaah have mercy on him) suggested that the reason for that was so as to ward off the possibility of adding to the fast, and to hasten to obey the command of Allaah. Al-Fath, 2/446

Whoever does not have any dates may break his fast with anything that is permissible.

But on Eid al-Adha it is mustahabb not to eat anything until one comes back from the prayer, so he should eat from the udhiyah if he has offered a sacrifice. If he is not going to offer a sacrifice there is nothing wrong with eating before the prayer.

3 – Takbeer on the day of Eid

This is one of the greatest Sunnahs on the day of Eid because Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):

“(He wants that you) must complete the same number (of days), and that you must magnify Allaah [i.e. to say Takbeer (Allaahu Akbar: Allaah is the Most Great)] for having guided you so that you may be grateful to Him”

[al-Baqarah 2:185]

It was narrated that al-Waleed ibn Muslim said: I asked al-Awzaa’i and Maalik ibn Anas about saying Takbeer out loud on the two Eids. They said, Yes, ‘Abd-Allaah ibn ‘Umar used to say it out loud on the day of al-Fitr until the imam came out (to lead the prayers).

It was narrated in a saheeh report that ‘Abd al-Rahmaan al-Sulami said, “They emphasized it more on the day of al-Fitr than the day of al-Adha.”. Wakee’ said, this refers to the takbeer. See Irwa’ al-Ghaleel, 3/122/

Al-Daaraqutni and others narrated that on the morning of Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, Ibn ‘Umar would strive hard in reciting takbeer until he came to the prayer place, then he would recite takbeer until the imam came out.

Ibn Abi Shaybah narrated with a saheeh isnaad that al-Zuhri said: The people used to recite Takbeer on Eid when they came out of their houses until they came to the prayer place, and until the imam came out. When the imam came out they fell silent, and when he said takbeer they said takbeer. See Irwa’ al-Ghaleel, 1/121

Saying takbeer when coming out of one’s house to the prayer place and until the imam came out was something that was well known among the salaf (early generations). This has been narrated by a number of scholars such as Ibn Abi Shaybah, ‘Abd a l-Razzaaq and al-Firyaabi in Ahkaam al-Eidayn from a group of the salaf. For example, Naafi’ ibn Jubayr used to recite takbeer and was astonished that the people did not do so, and he said, “Why do you not recite takbeer?”

Ibn Shihaab al-Zuhri (may Allaah have mercy on him) used to say, “The people used to recite takbeer from the time they came out of their houses until the imam came in.”

The time for takbeer on Eid al-Fitr starts from the night before Eid until the imam enters to lead the Eid prayer.

In the case of Eid al-Adha, the takbeer begins on the first day of Dhu’l-Hijjah and lasts until sunset on the last of the days of tashreeq.

Description of the takbeer:

It was narrated in the Musannaf of Ibn Abi Shaybah with a saheeh isnaad from Ibn Mas’ood (may Allaah be pleased with him) that he used to recite takbeer during the days of tashreeq:

Allaahu akbar, Allaahu akbar, laa ilaaha ill-Allaah, wa Allaahu akbar, Allaah akbar, wa Lillaah il-hamd (Allaah is Most Great, Allaah is most Great, there is no god but Allaah, Allaah is Most great, Allaah is most great, and to Allaah be praise).

It was also narrated elsewhere by Ibn Abi Shaybah with the same isnaad, but with the phrase “Allaahu akbar” repeated three times.

Al-Mahaamili narrated with a saheeh isnaad also from Ibn Mas’ood: “Allaahu akbaru kabeera, Allaahu akbaru kabeera, Allaahu akbar wa ajallu, Allaahu akbar wa Lillaah il-hamd (Allaah is Most Great indeed, Allaah is Most Great indeed, Allaah is most Great and Glorified, Allaah is Most Great and to Allaah be praise).” See al-Irwa’, 3/126.

4 – Offering congratulations

The etiquette of Eid also includes the congratulations and good wishes exchanged by people, no matter what the wording, such as saying to one another Taqabbala Allaah minna wa minkum (May Allaah accept (good deeds) from us and from you” or “Eid mubaarak” and other permissible expressions of congratulations.

It was narrated that Jubayr ibn Nufayr said: When the companions of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) met one another on the day of Eid, they would say to one another, “May Allaah accept (good deeds) from us and from you.” Ibn Hajar said, its isnaad is hasan. Al-Fath, 2/446.

Offering congratulations was something that was well known among the Sahaabah, and scholars such as Imam Ahmad and others allowed it. There is evidence which suggests that it is prescribed to offer congratulations and good wishes on special occasions, and that the Sahaabah congratulated one another when good things happened, such as when Allaah accepted the repentance of a man, they went and congratulated him for that, and so on.

Undoubtedly these congratulations are among the noble characteristics among the Muslims.

The least that may be said concerning the subject of congratulations is that you should return the greetings of those who congratulate you on Eid, and keep quiet if others keep quiet, as Imam Ahmad (may Allaah have mercy on him) said: If anyone congratulates you, then respond, otherwise do not initiate it.

5 – Adorning oneself on the occasion of Eid.

It was narrated that ‘Abd-Allaah ibn ‘Umar (may Allaah be pleased with him) said that ‘Umar took a brocade cloak that was for sale in the market and brought it to the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), and said, “O Messenger of Allaah, buy this and adorn yourself with it for Eid and for receiving the delegations.” The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said to him, “Rather this is the dress of one who has no share (of piety or of reward in the Hereafter)…” Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 948.

The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) agreed with ‘Umar on the idea of adorning oneself for Eid, but he denounced him for choosing this cloak because it was made of silk.

It was narrated that Jaabir (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) had a cloak which he would wear on the two Eids and on Fridays. Saheeh Ibn Khuzaymah, 1756,

Al-Bayhaqi narrated with a saheeh isnaad that Ibn ‘Umar used to wear his best clothes on Eid.

So a man should wear the best clothes that he has when going out for Eid.

With regard to women, they should avoid adorning themselves when they go out for Eid, because they are forbidden to show off their adornments to non-mahram men. It is also haraam for a woman who wants to go out to put on perfume or to expose men to temptation, because they are only going out for the purpose of worship.

6 – Going to the prayer by one route and returning by another.

It was narrated that Jaabir ibn ‘Abd-Allaah (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: On the day of Eid, the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) used to vary his route. Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 986.

It was said that the reason for that was so that the two routes would testify for him on the Day of Resurrection, for the earth will speak on the Day of Resurrection and say what was done on it, both good and bad.

And it was said that it was in order to manifest the symbols of Islam on both routes, or to manifest the remembrance of Allaah (dhikr), or to annoy the hypocrites and Jews, and to scare them with the large number of people who were with him. And it was said that it was in order to attend to the people’s needs, to answer their questions, teach them, set an example and give charity to the needy, or to visit his relatives and uphold the ties of kinship.

And Allaah knows best.
Islam Q&A

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Answer:

It is better for women to go out to the Eid prayer. This was enjoined by the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him).

Al-Bukhaari (324) and Muslim (890) narrated that Umm ‘Atiyyah (may Allaah be pleased with her) said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) commanded us to bring them (women) out on (Eid) al-Fitr and (Eid) al-Adha, and to bring out adolescent girls, menstruating women and virgins, but the menstruating women were to stay away from the prayer, but were to witness goodness and the gathering of the Muslims. I said: “O Messenger of Allaah, what if one of us does not have a jilbaab?” He said: “Let her sister lend her a jilbab.”

Al-Haafiz said:

This shows that it is mustahabb for women to come out and attend the Eid prayers, whether they are young or not.

Al-Shawkaani said:

This and similar hadeeths indicate that it is prescribed in sharee’ah for women to come out to the prayer-place, with no differentiation between virgins and non-virgins, young or old, menstruating or otherwise, so long as they are not going through ‘iddah (following divorce or death of their husband) or their coming out will be a cause of fitnah or they have an excuse.

Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymeen was asked: what is better for a woman, to come out to the Eid prayer or to stay at home?

He replied:

It is better for them to go out to Eid prayer, because the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) enjoined that the women go out to the Eid prayer, even the adolescent girls and virgins – i.e., women who do not ordinarily go out. He commanded them to go out, and he told the menstruating women to go out but to keep away from the prayer-place. So menstruating women should go out with other women for Eid, but they should not enter the place where the Eid prayer is offered, because the Eid prayer-place is a mosque and it is not permissible for a menstruating woman to stay there, but it is permissible for her to pass through or to take something she needs from it, without staying there. Based on this we say: women are commanded to go out to the Eid prayer and join the men in this prayer, because of the goodness, dhikr and du’aa’ they may experience there.

Majmoo’ Fataawa al-Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymeen, 16/210.

He also said:

But they must go out looking decent, not wearing adornment, makeup or perfume, so that they may combine following the Sunnah with avoiding fitnah.

What some women do of wearing adornment, makeup and perfume is because of their ignorance and negligence on the part of their guardians. This does not cancel out the general shar’i ruling, which is that women are commanded to go out to the Eid prayer.

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Answer:

As Eid is approaching, we would like to point out some things that some people do out of ignorance of the laws of Allaah and the Sunnah of the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). These include the following:

1 – The belief of some that it is prescribed to spend the night of Eid in worship.

Some people believe that it is prescribed to spend the night of Eid in worship. This is a kind of innovation (bid’ah) that is not proven from the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). Rather it was narrated in a da’eef (weak) hadeeth which says, “Whoever stays up on the night of Eid, his heart will not die on the day when hearts die.” This hadeeth is not saheeh. It was narrated via two isnaads, one of which is mawdoo’ (fabricated) and the other is da’eef jiddan (very weak). See Silsilat al-Ahaadeeth al-Da’eefah wa’l-Mawdoo’ah by al-Albaani, 520, 521.

It is not prescribed to single out the night of Eid to pray qiyaam to the exclusion of all other nights, unlike the one whose habit it is to pray qiyaam, in which case there is nothing wrong with him praying qiyaam on the night of Eid.

2 – Visiting graves on the two Eid days.

This is contrary to the purpose of Eid which is to express joy and happiness, and it goes against the teaching of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) and the actions of the salaf. It comes under the general meaning of the Prophet’s prohibition on visiting graves on a specific day and making that like a festival, as the scholars stated.

See Ahkaam al-Janaa’iz wa Bida’uha by al-Albaani, p. 219, 258.

3 – Forsaking the jamaa’ah and sleeping late and missing the prayer.

Unfortunately you see some of the Muslims missing the prayer and forsaking the jamaa’ah. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “The covenant that stands between us and them is the prayer; whoever forsakes it is a kaafir.” Narrated by al-Tirmidhi, 2621; al-Nasaa’i, 463; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Tirmidhi.

And he said: “The most burdensome prayers for the hypocrites are the ‘Isha’ and Fajr prayers. If they knew (what goodness) there is in them, they would come to them even if they had to crawl. I had thought of ordering the call to prayer to be given, then I would tell a man to lead the people in prayer, then I would go, taking some men with me carrying bundles of wood, to people who do not attend the prayer, and would burn their houses down around them.” Narrated by Muslim, 651.

4 – Women mixing with men in the prayer place, the streets and elsewhere, and crowding together with men in those places.

This is a source of great fitnah (temptation) and serious danger. Both women and men should be warned against that, and the necessary means should be taken to prevent that as much as possible. Men and youth should not leave the prayer place or the mosque until after the women have dispersed completely.

5 – Some women going out wearing perfume and makeup, and without veils.

This is a problem which is widespread, and many people take this matter lightly. Allaah is the One Whose help we seek. Some women – may Allaah guide them – even dress up in their finest clothes and put on the best perfume when they go to the mosque to pray Taraaweeh or go to the Eid prayers, etc. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Any woman who puts on perfume and passes by people so that they can smell her fragrance, is an adulteress.” Narrated by al-Nasaa’i, 5126; al-Tirmidhi, 2783; classed as hasan by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Targheeb wa’l-Tarheeb, 2019.

It was narrated that Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “There are two types of the people of Hell whom I have not seen. People with whips like the tails of cattle with which they beat the people, and women who are clothed yet naked, going astray and leading others astray, with their heads looking like the humps of camels, leaning to one side. They will not enter Paradise nor even smell its fragrance, although its fragrance may be detected from such and such a distance.” Narrated by Muslim, 2128.

The guardians of women must fear Allaah with regard to those who are under their care, and fulfil the duty of protecting and maintaining that Allaah has enjoined upon them, because,

“Men are the protectors and maintainers of women, because Allaah has made one of them to excel the other”

[al-Nisa’ 4:34 – interpretation of the meaning]

So they must guide them and show them that which will lead to their salvation and their safety in this world and in the Hereafter, by means of keeping away from that which Allaah has forbidden and striving for that which will bring them closer to Allaah.

6 – Listening to singing and haraam things.

Among the evil things that are widespread in these times is music and singing. They have become very widespread and people take this matter lightly. It is on TV and radio, in cars, homes and marketplaces. There is no power and no strength except with Allaah. Even cell phones are not free of this evil. There are companies which compete in putting the latest music on the ringers of their cell phones, and in this way music has even reached the mosques, may Allaah protect us… This is a great problem and a great evil whereby music is heard in the houses of Allaah. See question no. 34217. This confirms the words of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), “There will be among my ummah people who will regard adultery, silk, alcohol and musical instruments as permissible.” Narrated by al-Bukhaari.

See questions no. 5000, 34432.

The Muslim has to fear Allaah and realize that the blessing of Allaah means that he is obliged to give thanks to Him. It is not gratitude for the Muslim to disobey his Lord, when He is the One Who has bestowed this blessing upon him.

One of the righteous passed by some people who were engaged in idle entertainment on the day of Eid and said to them, “If you did well in Ramadaan, this is not the way to give thanks for that. If you did badly in Ramadaan, this is not the way that the one who did badly should behave.”

And Allaah knows best.

Source

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Ingredients

4 cups rice, washed
1 cup evaporated milk
3 cups water
1 Garlic, chopped
2 Shallots, sliced
2 tablespoon ghee
1 tablespoon oil
1 star anise
1 cardamom
1 clove
2cm cinnamon
1 Screwpine leaf (pandan leaf)
1 tablespoon of yellow colouring (for looks)

Method

Sauté the shallots and garlic in melted ghee in pot.

Add all the spices and fry until fragrant.

Then add the 4 cups of rice.

Pour in the evaporated milk, some water and  screwpine leaf.

Close the lid of the pot and wait till rice is done before stirring.

Once done, add a bit of colouring in a few spots but dont stir it yet. This is so the colour can ’set’ in, hence you get a gradient of colours.

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Famous Lebanese soup during Ramadan! I like the fact that its very simple and takes only 10 minutes to cook.

Ingredients (Recipe for 2 people)

-A couple of tablespoons of ghee
-Handful of thin short spaghetti
-Handful of mince meat (rolled into small balls)
-3 tablespoons tomato paste
-A bit of stock (I use powder stock)
-Water (1-2cups)
-Salt/Pepper

Method

1. Heat ghee in small pot and the fry the meatballs. Once done, set aside.

2. Using the same ghee, fry off the pasta until golden brown then return meatballs to the pot.

3. Add tomato paste, water, stock, salt and pepper.

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Ingredients
250g butter, chopped
180g white eating chocolate, chopped (I used my food processor)
1 1/2 cups caster sugar
3/4 cup milk
1 1/2 cups plain flour
1/2 cup self raising flour
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
2 eggs, lightly beaten

White Chocolate Ganache Topping
1/2 cup thickened cream
360 g white eating chocolate, chopped (I used my food processor)

Method for making ganache:

Combine chocolate and cream in a heatproof bowl over a saucepan of simmering water. Stir with wooden spoon until smooth. Remove bowl from heat. Cover bowl; refrigerate, stirring occasionally, about 30mins or until ganache is of a spreadable consistency.

Method for mud cake
1 Preheat oven to 160 deg. C. Grease deep 20cm round cake pan; line base and side with baking paper.
2 Combine butter, chocolate, sugar and milk in medium saucepan; stir over low heat until melted. Transfer mixture to large bowl; cool 15mins.
3 Stir in sifted flours, extract and egg; pour into prepared pan. Bake, uncovered, for about 1hr 40mins; cool in cake pan.
4 Meanwhile, make white chocolate ganache and chocolate curls.
5 Turn cake onto serving plate top side up. Spread ganache all over cake; top with chocolate curls.

White Chocolate Mud Cake

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Ingredients (serves 4)

415g can Stoneless Black Cherries
1 cup (250ml) Thickened Cream - to be whipped
1/2 cup chocolate sauce
250g pkt chocolate rollettes (cut into 3-4 cm thick)
1 teaspoon hazelnut essence (optional)

Method

1. Drain cherries, reserving 60ml (1/4 cup) of the syrup. Combine the whipped cream and chocolate sauce in a small bowl.

2. Divide half the rollette slices among serving glasses. Drizzle over half the syrup. Top with half the cherries. Pour over the cream mixture.

3. Continue layering with remaining rollette slices, syrup and cherries. Top with your choice of topping for decoration.

4. Refrigerate for at least a few hours before serving.

* You can also use custard for this recipe. Found here Original Black Forest Trifle

Black Forest Trifle

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This recipe is from sister Marrwa, who is an Egyptian sister mashaAllah. She put together all the ingredients herself. I have to say this is one of the best rendang’s I’ve tasted and not to mention, very easy to cook too!

This is NOT traditional rendang, but it is similar, very delicious and doesnt require many unfamiliar ingredients.

Ingredients:

1 kg beef chopped into chunks
One Large Onion chopped
2 large garlic cloves (crushed)
3-4 tablespoon Shaan’s Malaysian Biryani Mix)
1 cup desicated coconut
2-3 tablespoon chopped corriander root
4 tablespoons ketcup manis
5 tablespoons lemon juice
5 tablespoons oil
2-4 cups water (4 cups and approx 2.5 hrs cooking time gives very broken down meat)

Method:

Saute onions in oil until translucent.. add meat and fry off until cooked on the outside. DONT brown the onions.

Add garlic + curry powder and stir fry until fragrant.

On the side, add coconut to a dry pan and cook on low heat (stirring regularly) until coconut is deep golden colour (be careful not burn!)

Pound the coconut to a fine powder and add to the meat.

Add 1 cup water + corriander + ketcup manis +lemon juice + salt, cover and allow to cook on medium- low heat.

Add more water regularly until meat is tender (start falling apart). This may require 2-3 or more cups of water.

Cooking time is 1.5 hrs + depending on how soft you want the meat.. but it is still very tasty if you dont cook it for that long (just different kind of flavour/texture)

Once desired tenderness is achieved, allow to cook until sauce is thick as a paste and fry off (stirring regularly for a few mintues) until the oil separates from the paste.(this intensifies flavour and texture)

*Don’t overdo on the salt as the spice mix is already salted. Put salt to taste

Marrwa’s Rendang

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Ingredients

1 Kg Chicken thigh (with bones)**
2 Medium red Onions (1 sliced, 1 quartered)
5 Cloves Garlic (sliced)
1 Inch Ginger (chopped thinly)
2 Green Chillis (slice at the end)
1-2 teaspoon coarse black pepper
2 tablespoon Oyster Sauce
1/2 Cup Thick Caramel Sauce
1 tablespoon Kecap Manis (optional)
Squeeze of lemon juice (optional)
Salt/sugar to taste
1 cup water

**Marinate with 1 teaspoon ginger & garlic, pinch of salt and a teaspoon of turmeric. Set aside for at least 15 minutes.

Method
1. Heat up oil and fry the marinated chicken. Once done, take out and set aside.

2. In a pot, sauté onions, garlic and ginger using the oil from the chicken (about 2 tablespoon of oil) until fragrant.

3. Put black pepper, green chillis and all the sauces. Stir for a few minutes before adding water.

4. Add the fried chicken and simmer for 15-20 minutes.

5. Add salt to taste, if preferred you may add some sugar and lemon juice.

Note: You don’t need to fry the chicken beforehand if you don’t want to. You can cook the chicken in the pot along with the sauces but just add an extra 20-30 minutes to cooking time. However, fried chicken taste nicer.

To save this free printable recipe in PDF format, please download the link below:

Chicken in Dark Soy Sauce

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Ingredients

Cake:
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 eggs
1 cup plain flour
Pinch of salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 cup grated carrots

Icing:
80grams butter, melted
150 grams cream cheese
1 cup icing sugar
1/2 cup pecans or walnut, chopped finely
1 teaspoon vanilla

Method for Cake

1. Mix sugar, oil, and eggs using an electric mixer.

2. Sift together flour, salt, baking soda, baking powder, and cinnamon.

3. Add to first mixture and combine. Add carrots and mix well.

4. Pour into a greased and floured pan and bake until done for 45-50 minutes, depending on the pan you use.

5. Cool completely then put the icing on it.

Method for Icing

In large bowl, mix butter and cream cheese. Add sugar and vanilla, then mix in the nuts. Spread on cooled carrot cake.

To save this free printable recipe in PDF format, please download the link below:

Carrot and Cinnamon Cake

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Ingredients
•  Olive oil for frying
•  Toor dhal/lentil
•  1 onion, sliced
•  3 garlic cloves, sliced
•  1 inch ginger, sliced
•  ½ teaspoon cummin
•  ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
•  ½ teaspoon chilli powder
•  Salt and pepper, bit of vegetable stock
• 1 Green chilli (fresh)
•  2 cups water
•  Carrot/potatoes/tomato (optional)
•  curry leaves (1 stalk)
•  ½ teaspoon mustard seeds (black)

Method
Heat up oil and saute the half the onions, and all of the garlic and ginger.

When onions brown, add the toor dhal, cumin, chilli (fresh& powder) and turmeric then stir to combine for 1-2 minutes.

Add the 2 cups water and bring to boil on a medium heat.

Keep stirring until mixture becomes thick but not too thick. Usually takes 20-30 minutes.

On another stove, sauté the rest of the onions, curry leaves and mustard seeds. Once brown, turn off the heat and then add the dhal mixture and stir well. Keep lip closed and rest.

To save this free printable recipe in PDF format, please download the link below:

Dhal/Lentil

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1. Making the Intention

Simple to do and has a powerful impact. Maybe you want to prepare for Ramadan, but between school, work, family, and any other activities, you just have no idea how to fit in ‘Preparing for Ramadan’ time. Instead of making ‘preparing for Ramadan’ something separate from your daily activities, MAKE your daily activities a means of preparation for Ramadan.
For example, perhaps your mom asked you to pick up your brother from school on the day you finally had time to read a few extra pages of Qur’an. Instead of feeling upset and feeling like you have lost a great preparation for Ramadan opportunity, make the intention that you are picking up your brother to please Allah subhanahu wa ta’ala and prepare for Ramadan by obeying your mother, helping your family members, building ties of kinship… and the list continues.

The point is that preparing for Ramadan does not have to be some magnificent, enormous, extra-special thing that needs to be done at a certain time of the day. Many of your daily actions can be turned into Ramadan preparation actions with a sincere intention, insha’Allah.

2. Do these easy-to-reap-reward actions:

1. Asking Allah to forgive your brothers and sisters. “Whoever seeks forgiveness for believing men and believing woman, Allah will write for him a good deed for each believing man and believing woman.” [at-Tabarani, classed as hasan by al-Albani]

2. It was narrated that Abu Hurayrah (r.a) said “The Messenger of Allah (sal Allahu alayhi wa sallam) said: ‘Whoever says subhanAllah wa bi hamdih (praise and glory be to Allah) 100 times, morning and evening, his sins will be erased even if they are like the foam on the sea.” Narrated by al-Bukhari, 6042; Muslim 2691

3. If a person says “SubhanAllah” (glory be to Allah) 100 times, a thousand good deeds are recorded for him and a thousand bad deeds are wiped away. Narrated by Muslim 2073

4. Remember Allah when you go shopping : “Whoever enters a market and says:
‘Laa ilaha illallah wahdahu la shareeka lah, lahul mulku wa lahul hamdu yuhyi wa yumeetu wa huwa hayyun laa yamoot, bi yadihil khair, wa huwa ‘ala kulli shayin qadeer’[there is nothing worthy of worship except Allah, alone without partner, to Him belongs dominion and praise, He causes life and death and He is the Living and does not die. In His Hand is all the good, and He is over all things competent]Allah will write for him/her a million good deeds and erase a million bad deeds and raise him a million levels.” [at-Tirmidhi, classed as hasan by al-Albani]

3. Up your worship

To help condition your heart for this blessed month, intensify your worship before Ramadan begins. Just a small, consistent amount is enough. The Prophet, sal Allahu alayhi wa sallam told us:
“The deeds most loved by Allah are those done regularly, even if they are small.”

For example, if I always pray 2 rakats of sunnah after ishaa, from this day until Ramadan begins- and even through Ramadan, let me make the intention that I will now pray 2 extra rakats of sunnah after ishaa. And every time I pray these extra 2 rakats, which are more than what I normally pray, let me remember that I am doing these with the intention of asking Allah to help me be prepared to strive and exert my utmost effort during Ramadan.

4. Make a dua’a list today

This is THE MONTH to ask for EVERYTHING, both related to this life and the Next. Let us not wait until the last 10 nights to make special duaas, and then once Eid passes realize that we had completely forgotten about fifty other things we needed to make duaa for. Let us start making our lists now, and add to it as more things come our way. Insha’Allah this should help us remember to make constant duaa in this month where duaa is accepted, and help our hearts pour out to the One Who can make those duaas happen, subhanahu wa ta’ala.

5. Write out your objectives for Ramadan

Praying all of your fard prayers? Praying all of your sunnahs? Reading the entire Qur’an? Giving $1 charity a day? Making itikaaf in the masjid? Leaving one serious sin that you’ve been trying to get away from for some time now? Sincerely turning completely back to Allah?
Write out a list, put them somewhere you will see them, and make duaa for your success in fulfilling these objectives.

6. Make a plan!

Look at your objectives, and try to make a plan on how to actualize those objectives in this month.
For example, perhaps you are really struggling to pray your sunnah prayers. In this month, realize the enormity of the ajr of praying the sunnah prayers… think that perhaps these sunnahs will be the deeds that will be so heavy on your scale of good deeds when you are intense need of them- on yowm al qiyamah. Therefore, fight to keep doing them all throughout Ramadan. If you can’t pray your 2 rakats after dhur right away, make sure to do them as soon as you get a chance.

Thus, your plan might look something like this:

Objective: Pray all of my fard prayers.

Method: Envision myself on the day of judgment seeing the insha’Allah weight of praying my sunnah consistently during this month. Make sure to pray sunnah salah immediately after salah. If I cannot, do it as soon as the opportunity arises… don’t let myself put it off!

Another example is that of finishing the Qur’an:

Objective: Finishing the entire Qur’an in this month.
Method: Read 4 pages of the Qur’an after every salah. 5 prayers X 4 pages = 20 pages. 20 pages= about 1 juz. 1 juz X 30= the entire Qur’an.

——-
So many Muslims have passed away since last month. So many people have not made it to Ramadan this year. Last year was their very last Ramadan. Will you make it to this Ramadan? Will this be your last Ramadan?

Aim to strive in this Ramadan. With a very small amount of effort, such as just making a small intention, or adding a few extra acts of worship, we pray that Allah will help our hearts soften and honor us with making it easy to turn to Him and open up to Him.

May Allah make us of the successful in Ramadan, and make it easy for us to turn to Him completely and perpetually. Ameen.

http://www.suhaibwebb.com/blog/gener…dan-sr-maryam/

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Is it permissible or not for a woman to uncover her breast in front of her mahrams in order to breastfeed her child, if there is no fear of fitnah?

Answer:

A woman’s ‘awrah before her mahrams such as her father, brother, and brother’s son is her entire body except that which ordinarily appears such as the face, hair, neck, forearms and feet. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):

“and not to reveal their adornment except to their husbands, or their fathers, or their husband’s fathers, or their sons, or their husband’s sons, or their brothers or their brother’s sons, or their sister’s sons, or their (Muslim) women (i.e. their sisters in Islâm)” [al-Noor 24:31]

So Allaah has permitted a woman to show her adornment before her husband and her mahrams. What is meant by adornments is the places where adornments are worn, so the site of the ring is the hand, the site of the bracelet is the forearm, the site of the earring is the ear, the site of the necklace is the neck and chest, and the site of the anklet is the calf.

Abu Bakr al-Jasaas said in his Tafseer: The apparent meaning indicates that it is permissible to show one’s adornments to the husband and those who are mentioned alongside him, such as the father and others. It is well known that what is meant is the places where adornments are worn, which are the face, hand and forearm. … This implies that it is permissible for those mentioned in the verse to look at these places, which are the sites of concealed adornment, because at the beginning of the verse it states that non-mahrams are allowed only to see the external adornment, and it is permissible for the husband and mahrams to see the hidden adornments. It was narrated from Ibn Mas’ood and al-Zubayr (that it refers to) earrings, necklaces, bracelets and anklets.

The husband and those who are mentioned alongside him are equal with regard to that. The general meaning indicates that it is permissible for those mentioned to look at the places where adornment is worn, just as it indicates that it is permissible for the husband to do so. Because Allaah mentioned alongside the father other mahrams to whom it is permanently forbidden to marry her, this indicates that those to whom the same prohibition applies come under the same ruling, such as the daughter’s husband, wife’s mother, women who are mahrams due to breastfeeding, and so on. End quote.

Al-Baghawi (may Allaah have mercy on him) said: The words of Allaah, “and not to reveal their adornment” mean that they should not uncover their adornments before non-mahrams. What is referred to here is hidden adornments. There are two types of adornment, apparent and hidden. The hidden adornments include things such as the anklets, henna on the feet, bracelets on the wrist, earrings and necklaces. It is not permissible for her to show them or for a non-mahram to look at them. What is meant by adornment is the site where the adornment is worn.

It says in Kashshaaf al-Qinaa’ (5/11): A man may look at the face, neck, hand, foot, head and calf of a mahram. Al-Qaadi said, based on this report: It is permissible (to look at) that which ordinarily appears such as the head and hands up to the elbows.

These mahrams may vary with regard to closeness and being free of fitnah. Hence a woman may show before her father that which she should not show before her husband’s son. Al-Qurtubi (may Allaah have mercy on him) said: Because Allaah mentioned husbands first and then mahrams, and stated that they were equal with regard to showing adornment, but their status varies according to human nature. No doubt uncovering before a father or brother is safer than uncovering before her husband’s son, so they vary in what may be uncovered before them, and one may show to the father what one may not show to the husband’s son.

Based on this, the woman must cover her breasts when she wants to breastfeed her son in the presence of any of her mahrams, so she may offer her child the breast beneath a blanket and the like. This is part of modesty and keenness to remain covered.

For more information please see the answer to question no. 34745.

And Allaah knows best.

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I find disciplining my children difficult and often become angry and beat them. Can you give me any advice on the subject, as well as any books that would be appropriate to read?

Answer:

Raising and educating children is one of the duties required of parents. Allaah has enjoined that in the Qur’aan, and the Messenger (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) also enjoined that. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):

“O you who believe! Ward off yourselves and your families against a Fire (Hell) whose fuel is men and stones, over which are (appointed) angels stern (and) severe, who disobey not, (from executing) the Commands they receive from Allaah, but do that which they are commanded”

[al-Tahreem 66:6]

Imam al-Tabari said, commenting on this verse:

Here Allaah is saying: O you who believe in Allaah and His Messenger, “Ward off yourselves” teach one another that which will protect those who do it from the Fire and ward it off from them, if it is done in obedience to Allaah and they do it in obedience to Allaah. The phrase “and your families against a Fire” means, and teach your families to do acts of obedience to Allaah so that they may protect themselves from the Fire.

Tafseer al-Tabari, 18/165

Al-Qurtubi said:

Muqaatil said: This is a duty that he owes to himself, his children, his family and his male and female slaves. Ilkiya said: We have to teach our children and families religious commitment and goodness, and what they cannot do without of etiquette. This is what Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):

“And enjoin As-Salaat (the prayer) on your family, and be patient in offering them [i.e. the Salaat (prayers)]”

[Ta-Ha 20:132]

And Allaah said to the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) (interpretation of the meaning):

“And warn your tribe (O Muhammad) of near kindred”

[al-Shu’ara’ 26:214]

And the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said:

“And teach them (children) to pray when they are seven years old.”

Tafseer al-Qurtubi, 18/196

The Muslim – any Muslim – is a daa’iyah who calls people to Allaah, so the first people whom he calls should be his children and family who are close to him. When Allaah commanded His Messenger (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) to call people, He said (interpretation of the meaning):

“And warn your tribe (O Muhammad) of near kindred”

[al-Shu’ara’ 26:214]

because they are the first people to whom he should do good and show mercy.

The Messenger (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) gave the parents the responsibility of raising the children and made that obligatory upon them.

It was narrated that ‘Abd-Allaah ibn ‘Umar said: I heard the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) say: “Each of you is a shepherd and each of you is responsible for his flock. The ruler is a shepherd and is responsible for his flock. A man is the shepherd of his family and is responsible for his flock. A woman is the shepherd of her husband’s household and is responsible for her flock. A servant is the shepherd of his master’s wealth and is responsible for his flock.” He said: and I think he said, “A man is the shepherd of his father’s wealth and is responsible for his flock. Each of you is a shepherd and is responsible for his flock.”

Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 583; Muslim, 1829.

Part of your duty is to bring them up from a young age to love Allaah and His Messenger and to love the teachings of Islam. You should tell them that Allaah has a Paradise and a Hell; that His Hell is hot and its fuel is men and stones. The following story contains an important lesson.

Ibn al-Jawzi said:

There was a king who had a lot of wealth, and he had a daughter and no other children. He loved her very much, and he used to let her enjoy all kinds of entertainment. This went on for a long time. Beside the king there lived a devoted worshipper, and whilst he was reciting one night, he raised his voice saying, “O you who believe! Ward off yourselves and your families against a Fire (Hell) whose fuel is men and stones “ [al-Tahreem 66:6 – interpretation of the meaning]. The girl heard his recitation and said to her servants, “Stop!” But they did not stop. The worshipper started to repeat the verse, and the girl kept telling them to stop, but they did not stop. She put her hands to her collar and tore her garment, and they went to her father and told him the story. He went to her and said, “My dear, what happened to you tonight? What made you weep?” and he hugged her. She said, “I ask you by Allaah, O my father, to tell me, does have Allaah have a Fire the fuel of which is men and stones?” He said, “Yes.” She asked him, “Why did you not tell me? By Allaah I will not eat any good food or sleep on any soft bed until I know whether my abode is in Paradise or Hell.”

Safwat al-Safwah, 4/437-438

You have to keep them away from the places of immorality and misguidance; do not leave them to grow up with evil things from the television etc, then after that expect them to be righteous, for whoever sows thorns cannot harvest grapes. That should be done when they are young, so that it will be easy for them when they grow up, and they will get used to it, and it will be easy for you to tell them what to do and what not to do, and it will be easy for them to obey you.

It was narrated that Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Teach your children to pray when they are seven years old, and smack them if they do not do so when they are ten, and separate them in their beds.”

Narrated by Abu Dawood, 495; classed as saheeh by Shaykh al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Jaami’, 5868

But the educator must be merciful, forbearing, easy-going and approachable, not foul-mouthed or unkempt, arguing in a manner that is better, far removed from insulting, rebuking and beating, unless the child is one of those who willfully disobey and rejects his father’s commands and neglects his duties and does haraam things; in that case it is better to use stern measures with him, without causing him harm.

Al-Minaawi said: For a father to discipline his child when he reaches the age of discernment [??] means that he should raise him with the characteristics of the righteous believers and protect him from mixing with evildoers; he should teach him the Qur’aan and good manners and the language of the Arabs, let him hear the Sunnah and the sayings of the Salaf and teach him the religious rulings that he cannot do without. He should warn him then smack him if he does not pray etc. That will be better for him than giving a saa’ in charity, because if he teaches him properly, his actions will be among his ongoing charity, whereas the reward for a saa’ of charity is limited, but that will last as long as the child lives. Discipline is the nourishment of the soul, and training it for the Hereafter.

“O you who believe! Ward off yourselves and your families against a Fire (Hell)…”

[al-Tahreem 66:6 – interpretation of the meaning]

Protecting yourself and your family from it means reminding them of Hell. Discipline includes preaching, warning, threatening, smacking, detaining, giving and being kind. Disciplining one who is good and noble is different from disciplining one who is difficult and ignoble.

Fayd al-Qadeer, 5/257

Smacking is a means of correcting the child; it is not something that it wanted in and of itself, rather it is resorted to if the child is stubborn and disobedient.

There is a system of punishment in Islam, and there are many punishments in Islam, such as the hadd punishments for adultery, theft, slander, etc. All of these are prescribed in order to set the people straight and put a stop to their evil.

Concerning such matters the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) advised parents to deter their children from doing wrong.

It was narrated from Ibn ‘Abbaas that the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Hang your whip where the members of the household can see it, for that will discipline them.”

Narrated by al-Tabaraani, 10/248; its isnaad was classed as hasan by al-Haythami in Majma’ al-Zawaa’id, 8/106

Al-Albaani said in Saheeh al-Jaami’, 4022, it is hasan.

So raising children should be a balance between encouragement and warning. The most important element of all is making the environment in which the children live a good one, by providing the means whereby they may be guided; this means that their educators should be religiously committed, including their parents.

One of the ways in which a parent may be successful in raising his children is to use a cassette player to play tapes of teachings, Qur’aan recitation, khutbahs and lessons of scholars, for there are many available.

With regard to the books that you asked about, which you can refer to with regard to raising children, we recommend the following:

Tarbiyat al-Atfaal fi Rihaab al-Islam by Muhammad Haamid al-Naasir and Khawlah ‘Abd al-Qaadir Darweesh

Kayfa yurabbi al-Muslim waladahu by Muhammad Sa’eed al-Mawlawi

Tarbiyat al-Abna’ fi’l-Islam by Muhammad Jameel Zayno

Kayfa nurabbi Atfaalana by Mahmoud Mahdi al-Istanbuli

Mas’ooliyat al-Abb al-Muslim fi Tarbiyat al-Walad by ‘Adnaan Ba Haarith

And Allaah knows best.

Islamqa

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American Muslim Mom encourages Muslim Moms to share tips, tools and resources based on the Qur’an and Sunnah (life and actions) of Prophet Muhammad (peace & blessings be upon him).

The community has a large following of non-Muslims, all of who benefits from Islamic, motivational, educational, practical, and fun articles, reviews, videos, contests, give-aways, and much more. Fresh content is added regularly including interviews with other Muslim moms and industry experts, how-to instructional articles, audios and articles dealing with current interests.
While channels such as Home and Garden, Family, and Entertainment are similar to national parenting magazines, American Muslim Mom magazine incorporates Islamic beliefs and principles. For example, additional channels include “Deen/Religion” and “Home Education”.

Examples of unique articles found within each channel include,

• Deen/Religion - Spiritual reflections from the Sunnah of of Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him), and Tips for learning the Qur’an and Sirah (biography) of Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him),
• Health & Wellness - Natual healing methods found in Qur’an and Sunnah, Islamic fashion reviews, etc.,
• Home & Garden - Halal (permissible) recipes without pork, alcohol, etc., such as Halal Pizza,
• Family - Exploring the multiple roles of Muslim moms, such as wife, daughter, sister, business women, etc.,
• Freebies - Popular series “Freebie Friday”  with verses from Qu’ran for spiritual motivation,
• News & Business - Frugal Living tips, home business tips and opportunities with hadiths (sayings and actions) of Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him),
• Entertainment - Reviews of Islamic websites, books, products, clothing/apparal, software, etc., and
• Home Education - Advise and tips to offer children private Islamic education on a shoestring budget.

To kick-off this unique online magazine, American Muslim Mom launched the country’s First Annual Summer Islamic Summer Reading Program for newborns to college students. Free Mommy’s Promotional Campaign, Kid’s Coloring “Design a Button” Contests offer Islamic bookstore gift certificates and Islamic books as prizes.

Additional resources not found elsewhere online include,

• American Muslim Mom eNewsletter - offers free monthly mommy eReport ,
• Two Must-Have eBooks for all Muslim Moms
  • The popular, must-read ebook, “The Muslim Woman and Her Husband”, and
  • The highly-acclaimed and respected ebook, “The Ideal Muslimah - The True Islamic Personality of the Muslim Woman as Defined in the Qur’an and Sunnah” by Dr. Muhammad ‘Ali Al-Hashimi, and
• Regular contests and free give-aways specific to moms,
• Commentary from Owner/Publisher, best-selling author Ponn M. Sabra, MPH on international and national news pertaining to Islam, especially Islam and the roles of women and mother.

Sabra states, “With the guidance and blessings of Allah (May He be Glorified) and Him Alone, I believe the only way to blend the perfection of our faith with the many freedoms and opportunities here in America, we must not assimulate our children (to maintain our unique identities), not isolate them (so we don’t shelter or ostracize them), but to always strive to be emulated because the simplicity and perfection of Islam teachings us to do so. Unfortunately, popular media does not publicize the beauty of Islam, and American Muslim Mom will strive to achieve this ultruistic goal, inshaAllah (God willing).”

Unlike previous Muslim magazines that lauched and ceased publication, American Muslim Mom has partners and sponsors beyond Muslim institutions and organizations to position its long-term success. “Americans are tired of one-sided news reporting. With social media such as the launching of an interactive online magazine, Muslim Moms in America will finally have their passionate and educated voices heard. With pure faith in Allah, American Muslim Mom is here to grow, inshaAllah (God willing)”, Sabra adds.

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Ingredients
200-300grams Rocking Fillets (skin off and de-boned).
2 tbls Chilli Oil (depending on how spicy you like it)
1 Onion (sliced)
3 Cloves Garlic (sliced)
1 tbls Sweet Chilli
1 tbls Tomato Sauce
1 tbls Oyster Sauce
Handful of Spring Onions (sliced thinly)
Any stir fry vegetables you like (I use capsicum, carrots, snow peas…)
Salt, pepper and some Vegeta (vegetable powder)
Cut red chillies (optional)

Method

Cut rockling fish into small pieces then coat in Tempura Batter* and deep fry till golden brown.

Heat chilli oil in wok.

Throw in the sliced onions, fry for 1-2minutes then add garlic and spring onions.

Put in all the sauces (sweet chilli, tomato and oyster) and fry for 1-2 minutes before adding your vegetables. (Don’t overcook the veges or they’ll come out soggy)

Season well and then add the fish pieces and give it a good final stir.

Serve with rice.

*I just used ready made tempura batter coz I had some left in the pantry otherwise its just easy, you can google it.

P/s: Once the fillets are coated and fried, this stir fry literally takes 5 minutes to cook and is best served hot and crunchy…yummm

To save this free printable recipe in PDF format, please download the link below:

Stir Fry Rocking Fillets in Tempura Batter

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Ingredients: (serves 1)

1 Soft Sausage bun
1 Hot dog
A handful of leftover Bolognese
Some mozzarella cheese

Method:

Boil the hotdog for 20minutes.
While hotdog is boiling, cut the bread to open it up lengthways
Once boiled, put it in the bun and pour some Bolognese sauce over.
Drizzle some mozzarella cheese and…
You’re good to go. How easy was that!!
To save this free printable recipe in PDF format, please download the link below:

A&W Style Coney Dog

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This is a famous Malaysian breakfast dish, served with chicken or beef curry.

Ingredients (makes approx 20)

1 Egg
1 ½ cup water
250g Plain Flour
½ can Evaporated Milk
Pinch of Salt
Teaspoon of yellow colouring

Method to make batter

Beat the egg and milk in a bowl.

Gradually sift the flour and stir well.

Add water as you go along.

Make sure the consistency is not too watery or too thick.

Then add the yellow colouring and leave aside for 30minutes.

Method to make pancake

Heat crepe pan and grease with some butter

Pour some batter into the mold and transfer the mold to the pan.

As the batter flows through the holes of the mold, make circular rounds around the pan to form the netty patterns.

Once the top is set and done or when the bottom turns light brown, transfer the pancake out and fold it into triangle shape.

Serve with chicken/beef curry.

To save this free printable recipe in PDF format, please download the link below:

Lacy Pancake/Roti Jala

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The main ingredients in this recipe is the really soft and tender beef and the dark soy sauce. Make sure the beef is thinly sliced and marinated with oil at least one night, but best after 2 nights. There is no egg in this recipe.

Ingredients (serves 2-3)

500g thinly sliced beef (marinate with lots of oil, garlic and pepper)
1 packet Hokkien noodles
1 packet fish cake, sliced
1 Onion, sliced
2 Garlic, sliced
1 tablespoon Oyster sauce
2 tablespoon Dark Soy sauce
Vegetables (bok choy, carrots, baby corn, broccoli etc)
Salt and pepper to taste

Method

Pre-heat pan/wok and add the oil to fry the onions, fish cakes and beef.

Then saute your garlic along with the vegetables.

Add hokkien noodles, sauces and salt/pepper.

To save this free printable recipe in PDF format, please download the link below:

MONGOLIAN NOODLES

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>> Plan your dinner a week in advance!

By planning out your weekly dinner, you can do all your shopping needs in one go!

>> Cook in bulk and freeze, freeze, freeze!

Freezing your food comes in very handy especially for those lazy days when you just cant be bothered cooking. It saves you time, energy + money (gas/electricity/water).

>> Go out with your family; be it once a week or once a month!

Get rid of routine,take your family out for a nice meal and enjoy not having to cook.

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We should all get into the habit of drinking water and that means, getting your kids drinking water at a very young age! I have seen many families, where they give sugary drinks to their kids but regret doing that now because their kids have grown to love sugary drinks and have ditched the ‘pure water’ which is meant to be very good for their health.

Pepsi, juice and all sugary drinks are not considered healthy drinking! Although, there is nothing wrong with minimum consumption of sugary drinks, if given on special occasion or as a treat.

Water is crucial to your family’s health and wellbeing. It makes up, on average, 60 percent of your body weight. Every system in your body depends on water.

Some benefits of drinking water are:

• Improve Your Energy

• Increase Your Mental and Physical Performance

• Remove Toxins & Waste Products from your body

• Keep Skin Healthy and Glowing

• Help You Lose Weight

• Reduce Headaches and Dizziness

• Allow for proper Digestion

• Help to keep you more Alkaline

Sometimes, people find drinking plain water is boring…”there is no taste”. Well, spice it up! You can always add some drops of lemon, orange or whatever fruit you like and InshaAllah once your kids get the hang of it, they probably don’t even need the extra taste anymore. And remember, make sure you keep a bottle with them at all times. It definitely comes in handy especially when they have been running around.

Wassalamualaikum.

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Furthermore, salah was the first act of worship that was made obligatory by Allah. Therefore, due to its extreme importance to the Believer, salah should be one of the first acts of worship that parents should teach their children.

When discussing teaching children how to make salah parents typically ask when is it necessary to begin teaching their children. Let us be realistic; learning how to make salah is not easy for children or in some cases adults. It can take a lot of work to master even the simplest elements of salah. The learner must memorize the various du’aa and Surah’s of the Qur’an- not to mention the other required portions of the salah. Furthermore, there must be work on proper pronunciation and rules on how, when, and what makes salah valid. This is not an overnight process but rather one that takes times. Therefore, this leaves us with the question-when should children learn how to make salah?

Abdullah ibn Amr ibn al-As, narrated that the Apostle of Allah, sallallahu alayhe wa sallam, said,

“Command your children to make salah when they become seven years old, and spank them for it (salah) when they become ten years old, and arrange their beds (to sleep) separately.” (Abu Dawud).
This does not mean that parents can only start teaching their children how to perform it when they reach the age of seven. Rather, informal instruction should start when a child starts to show an interest in salah, which usually occurs around the age of two. It is only human nature that children love to imitate their parents. In fact, this is one method that Allah has provided us for teaching our youth.

Therefore, it is important for parents of small children to let them “pretend” to make the salah along side of the parents. The benefits for this are twofold. First, it teaches children that it is necessary to make salah everyday five times a day. And second, it helps children learn the physical movements of the salah. It really is amazing how fast a two-year-old will learn the phrase Allahu-Akbar when he performs salah along side of his parents!

The next step is to teach your child al-Fatihah. This should begin around the age of three or four. When teaching children Surah’s or any other portions of the salah that must be memorized; it is important to remember to break down the instructions by using a reasonable number of verses or small segments. In other words, teaching a child how to perform the salah should be done progressively in small steps. It is important to practice reciting the previously learned material consistently everyday along with any new material. These practice sessions should only last between 5 to 15 minutes. At this age, length of practice is not as important as consistency. Also, it is important to note that not everyday will your child be ready to learn new material. Work on mastery of material not quantity. The other question many parents ask is whether or not to teach Surah’s using Tajweed. Actually, many parents find it helpful to combine the two. Children have an amazing ability to remember songs in commercials or various children’s song. For many children, the act of singing actually makes it easier to memorize. However, at this age it is important not to focus on the rules of recitation but rather on the content.

While the presence of a teacher or parent teaching children the proper method of making salah can not be underestimated, many parents find supplemental materials helpful in teaching their children how to make salah. Every year new educational products are being introduced into the Muslim market. Today, Muslim parents have available coloring books, storybooks, developmentally appropriate teaching videotapes, audio tapes, and computer programs to enhance the learning process. Generally children learn new tasks best if teaching material is presented in a variety of formats. The use of such material will only help increase the speed and amount of learning for your child not to mention that it will make the experience more enjoyable.

Lastly, one of the most important aspects of successful teaching is praise and encouragement. Remember that children like to please their parents. Also, it is really important that parents praise and celebrate their children’s accomplishments. This is especially true for learning how to make salah. After the mastery of a section, children typically feel a strong sense of achievement. Praise motivates the child to continue to learn and accomplish new goals.
By Maysoon Zaza
http://sisters.islamway.com

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A child can also be taught to understand the bounty of Allaah and the blessing of good health that He has bestowed upon him. For example, you could say to him, “Who gave you your hearing, sight and mind? Who gave you strength and the ability to move?” and so on. The child can also be encouraged to love Allaah and to thank Him for this blessing and bounty. Making a child love Allaah and the things that Allaah loves is a good action which will bring educational benefits sooner or later, by Allaah’s Leave.

A mother opened a window on the second floor of the house to let some air in, but her child came and quickly closed it. When his mother asked him why he had done that, he said, “I saw the dish on one of our neighbours’ roofs and I don’t want to look at anything that my Lord does not like.”

A child may ask about his Lord, whether He eats or sleeps. In that case we have to answer and tell him that there is nothing like Allaah, and He is the All-Hearing, All-Seeing; neither slumber nor sleep overtakes Him. Allaah is not like us, He does not need to sleep, eat or drink.

If these meanings are made simple for a child and explained to him in a way that is suited to his age, then the veneration of Allaah in his heart is one of the things that will help him to be aware that Allaah is watching him in secret and in public.

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