Gallimaufry#160

Just a gallimaufry of AI-generated photos, real photos and ramblings 📸

Brahminy Kites

Nasi Lemak

More than just a meal, nasi lemak is a symbol of Malaysian identity. With its fragrant coconut rice, fiery sambal, crispy anchovies, peanuts, egg, and cucumber — all wrapped in a humble banana leaf — this dish unites Malaysians across all walks of life.

Served at roadside stalls or high-end restaurants, nasi lemak proudly holds its place as Malaysia’s national food.

Ipoh's famous caramel custard

Ipoh's famous caramel custard might seem like an unlikely addition to a kopitiam menu, especially considering its fancy French roots. Originally a crème caramel or flan from France, this dessert made its way to Malaysia during colonial times when Western influences started mixing with local food. A kopitiam is a traditional Chinese coffee shop, known for its no-frills atmosphere and simple, comforting food like kaya toast, soft-boiled eggs, and, of course, strong local coffee—often referred to as kopi.

Unlike the polished and upscale vibe of a fancy cafe, kopitiams are unpretentious, often small, bustling spots where locals gather for casual meals and drinks. In the early 20th century, Chinese-run kopitiams in towns like Ipoh, a booming tin-mining hub, began serving these Western desserts alongside their everyday offerings. What's ironic is how a dessert with such an elegant French pedigree ended up in these humble, laid-back settings. Over time, the locals gave it their own twist, and today, caramel custard is a beloved treat in these cozy shops, served with smooth custard and rich caramel sauce. It’s a perfect example of how global flavors can find their way into the most unexpected places, turning a once-fancy French dessert into a cherished local comfort food.

Haha! Would you expect crème caramel in a humble kopitiam like this? But here we are, where even French desserts get a local twist!

FROM THE TRAVEL ARCHIVES

Three ducks enjoying a peaceful moment by the water's edge. 🦆🦆🦆

The Cloister of Salisbury Cathedral

The cloisters of Salisbury Cathedral are a stunning example of medieval craftsmanship. Built in the late 13th century, they are the largest cloisters in England (58m x 190ft square) and feature beautifully arcaded walkways surrounding a tranquil garden. Originally, the central space was likely a simple grassy square, but today, it is adorned with a grand tree and carefully managed as a garden.

The cloisters serve as a peaceful retreat, offering breathtaking views of the cathedral’s towering spire—the tallest in England. They also house the Chapter House, which contains one of the four surviving original copies of the Magna Carta.

I’d like to believe that the mice at Salisbury Cathedral have been quietly tending the cloister lawns for generations—donning their little hats at dawn, pushing their squeaky mowers in perfect rows, and taking immense pride in keeping the grass  immaculate.