Whether or not we have personally experienced it, I believe that many of us know the hardships of giving birth as well as the changes in mums’ bodies. Hence, confinement is a common practice observed in Asia, and highly valued as it is a period for postpartum mums’ bodies to recuperate and recover from childbirth.
Confinement meals are meals specially curated to ensure mums have sufficient rest and nourishment, and they are most commonly prepared by their families or relatives. However, for those who may not be as lucky, fret not, as there are multiple confinement food caterers islandwide to provide you with the postnatal nutrients that you need; and Zuo Yue Food is one of them.
My first impression of Zuo Yue Food was a pleasant one, as the meal came timely and was packed neatly. Consuming food from plastic containers exposes us to BPA contamination in our foods, so I thought it was really thoughtful for them to pack the meals in thermal containers and flasks for the soup, which helped to keep the food warm too.
The wide variety of carbohydrates to choose from surprised me, varying from three different forms of rice ─ purple, white, brown, and mee sua, which is definitely a refreshing choice after consuming grains for many consecutive days. I chose brown rice, which is packed with much higher fibre and proteins than regular white rice.
Some may have the impression that confinement foods are bland and boring as they only serve to provide nutrients for mums, which is certainly not true! What sets Zuo Yue Food apart from the other caterers is the distinct Malaysian Hakka-Cantonese cuisine. From their traditional Signature Vinegar Pork Trotters with Egg and Mushroom to Papaya Threadfin Soup, the dishes gave me a homely and comforting feeling.
Stir-Fried Broccoli with Ginger and Wolfberry
Although this dish is called stir-fried broccoli, the dish also came with abalone mushroom, carrot and ginger, providing a ton of nutrients and textures. Vegetables are a must in meals, so I thought the colourful dish helped in making it look more appetising overall.
Signature Vinegar Pork Trotters with Egg and Mushroom
In Chinese tradition, pork trotter vinegar is a very common confinement dish served to mums because of the benefits this dish is packed with. It is believed to be warming, replenishing collagen, while also strengthening for their body.
The pork knuckle was tender and melted in my mouth right away. The fats and meat ratio was even, so it was not jelak (surfeiting) at all! The sauce was mildly sweet and had a prominent vinegar taste, which was perfect for a vinegar-lover like me.
Signature Papaya Threadfin Soup
Traditionally rich in boosting milk supply, I can see why this nutritious soup is a hot favourite amongst mums, especially those breastfeeding!
At first glance, the soup was concocted with fresh garoupa ─ which is an exquisite choice of fish and a mixture of huge chunks of green and orange papaya (which was rather unique considering how many caterers only put in green papayas).
They were very generous with the fish slices, which were very tender. The soup was sweet and comforting, and even my family members who do not like soup thoroughly enjoyed it.
Overall, I really enjoyed the meals I tasted from Zuo Yue Food. As a Cantonese Malaysian and one who has a dad who cooks Malaysian cuisine often, the meals offered definitely came close in terms of taste and a sense of home and nostalgia.
For those interested in trying out, Zuo Yue Food offers a huge range of package choices, from a day to a week and more! For more information, you can visit their official website or their social media platforms on Facebook and Instagram.