My Gourmet Kitchen

The Malnad Cuisine of Chikamagalur

2019-05-20T21:26:00.000+05:30

The Malnad cuisines is one of the undiscovered cuisines of India. Originated from the region of Karnataka, the cuisine of Malnad is known for its rich flavors and aroma. The cuisines got its name because of the heavy rainfall the area received. 'Malenadu' means 'The Land of Rain' in the local language. The Malnad cuisine has strong influence of the fresh and organic ingredients from the locale. These local ingredients that influence the cooking include the locally grown turmeric leaves, raw jackfruit, colocasia leaves, tender bamboo shoots, rice and the rest. The freshly ground masala from the local spices add the flavors to the cuisines.

The Malnad cuisines involves a cooking type which includes less oil and fresh spices. As compared to rest of the South Indian Cuisines, the Malnad Cuisines is mildly spiced. Oil usage is minimal in Malnad cooking, as steaming is more focused upon rather than frying foods. The use of rare ingredients such as tiny local edible mushrooms(akki alubu), tender bamboo shoots(kalule), red ants(chigli) as well as colocasia leaves make the Malnad cuisine one of its kind. As any other South Indian fare, many chutneys and pickles make their way into your food plate. These pickles or chutneys are made with vegetables such as brinjal, lady finger, coconut, turmeric leaves, jack fruit and the rest.

Some of the healthy options to try out include:

Akki Roti - A rice flat bread.

Maamsa Saaru - Local mutton curry

Menthya Sasive - Gravy prepared with fenugreek seeds

Iddiyappam - Breakfast food cooked by steaming rice flour

Halbai - Dessert cooked with rice and jaggery

Kai Kadubu - Steamed dumplings filled with fresh coconut and jaggery.

Benne Kadubu - Rice dumplings

Neer Dosa - Breakfast crepe cooked with rice flour and coconut milk

Hurlisaru - A curry preparation with horse gram(kulith)

Though the serving of food on a green banana leaf may make it appear as any South Indian fare, yet, the strong and appealing cooking of Malnad has its own identity which is making Chikmagalur one of the destinations to visit.

How to Reuse Oil For Cooking

2019-02-04T14:29:00.001+05:30

reuse oil

Oil once used for frying should preferably not to be reused. But sometimes we use large quantities of oil for frying, usually when we have parties or expecting a lot of guests. On such occasions once frying is done, large amount of oil is leftover after frying. In such cases instead of throwing away the oil, here's how you can still reuse the cooking oil to maximum advantage. This can happen if one ensures that the oil is looked after and handled carefully. Follow these few steps to reuse oil used for cooking and frying:

1. Once you are done using the oil for frying, turn off the flame and allow the oil to cool down completely.

2. Used oil often have bits of fried food particles settled at the bottom. Sometimes there is a cloud of light food particles that float as a layer on the used oil. So strain the oil a couple of times to clear it out of any such particles. Use a fine mesh to strain thin and tiny particles if you missed them before. Make sure that you strain the oil immediately after cooling down.

3. Store this oil in a dry and closed container. Make sure to use a clean container.

4. Don't store the reused oil for a longer duration.

5. Use the reused oil for the right cooking. For example, if the oil was used to fry non-vegetarian food items, then it is advisable to use it for cooking non-vegetarian foods only. But if you have fried veg pakoras in the oil, then reuse the oil to make both vegetarian as well as non-vegetarian dishes.

6. Use the oil in proper portions. The reused oil should be only used once.

7. Make sure that if you plan to reuse the oil for frying, then dispose it off once done. Do not reuse the oil again. There is a certain limitation for how many times you can keep frying in reused oil. Reusing oil again and again can have serious damage to your health.

Tip: Do not reuse the oil which has been used to deep fry large batches of food in a mixed variety. For example if you have fried many starters in the same oil for a party, it is advisable to discard such oil after use. Such oil should not be reused again.

Top 10 Cancer Fighting Foods

2019-01-28T20:21:00.001+05:30

Our daily diet reflects on our health! What we eat has a profound effect on our life and it's protection against diseases such as cancer. A healthy diet plays an important role in fighting disease. One can't just depend totally on medication and therapies for fighting diseases. Though they definitely help, yet introducing a healthy diet may work side by side to build a healthy 'you'. One has yet to learn the healing powers of foods. Though we have discovered many such super foods, which we try and introduce in our daily diet, yet their actual health benefits are far from known. The actual list of such super foods that can fight cancer is really very long. But here is a list of the top 10 cancer fighting foods which are available easily and can help save you from the development of cancerous cells as well as work towards detoxification of your body. Even if we include two or three of these foods in our daily diet on a regular basis, it would work in maximizing your potential and protect your body by eliminating toxins.

Top 10 Cancer Fighting Foods

1. Pomegranates

Including pomegranate in your daily diet would help you in the best way possible. Eating pomegranate regularly helps you fight the belly fat. The juice of pomegranate is said to be beneficial for restraining growth of cancerous cells and tumors especially prostate cancer and breast cancer. The ellagitannins that are present in the pomegranate fruit restrains the enzyme aromatose. Aromatose is an enzyme which is responsible for making estrogen in the body. Too much estrogen could relate in severe health related problems such as weight gain, liver problems, cancer and tumors. The ellagitannins present inside pomegranate protects against breast cancer by suppressing the estrogen levels and also in the prevention of other cancer cells. Recent studies and research do indicate that super food pomegranate intake helps fight not just breast cancer but also lung cancer.

Tip: Pomegranates could be added to salads or enjoyed just as it is. Daily intake of pomegranate juice also fights cancer.

2. Broccoli

Brocccoli may not be one of your choices while planning lunches and dinner, but remember broccoli is one of the super foods which can significantly eradicate the risks of breast cancer. Broccoli fights cancer as it contains sulforaphane which is an anti-inflammatory compound. Sulforaphane is a phytochemical which is also found in brussels sprouts as well as cabbages. Sulforaphane has the ability to kill cancer and is known as a potent antioxidant. Being one of the cruciferous vegetables, broccoli has gained quite an attention for its plethora of health benefits. Hence broccoli is one of the miracle foods that cure cancer.

Tip: Broccoli could be eaten in real simple ways by just steaming or sauteing it in olive oil. One could use broccoli in cooking by incorporating it in soups, casseroles, meat and other dishes. We can use most of everything from broccoli right from its florets and soft stems to its hardened base.

3. Spinach

Spinach is one of the cancer fighting foods which has two potential carotenoids, viz - lutein and zeaxanthin that are known to reduce the risks of breast cancer. These carotenoids can also reduce the risk of stomach cancer, cancer of esophagus, ovarian cancer, lung cancer and mouth cancer. It is a strongest food that could fight cancerous cells of almost every type. The rich supply of vitamins, fiber, minerals and antioxidants in spinach could work favorably for your body if consumed abundantly. It is one of the powerful ally that can be used to fight and cure cancer. Recent research has shown that women who included spinach in their daily diet at least twice a week are less prone to breast cancer than women who didn't.

Tip: Replace iceberg by fresh spinach leaves in salads and wraps. Use spinach as side dish by tossing it lightly in olive oil with crushed garlic and salt. Make healthy spinach dip or incorporate super food spinach in stir-fried veggies, kebabs, pulao, dal, smoothies, juices and other cooking.

4. Olive Oil

Research has shown that the regular use of olive oil in our diet could really help prevent cancer. One of the compound found in extra virgin olive oil, known as Oleocanthal is said to have cancer fighting properties. It is said that oleocanthal present in olive oil is one of the promising compounds which could be responsible for killing cancer cells. But one should not confuse extra virgin olive oil with pomace oil. Extra virgin olive oil contains more amounts of cancer fighting phytochemicals compared to pomace oil because it is less processed. Extra virgin olive oil is the olive oil with highest oleocanthal content. An olive oil rich diet is correlated with the reduced risk of bowel cancer. Olive oil is one of the miracle foods that cure cancer as it has the property to kill cancerous cells without causing any harm to the healthy cells. Olive oil along with a Mediterranean diet can help fight and cure malignant melanoma which is one of the skin cancer types.

Tip: Use of extra virgin olive oil can be made in salads, pastas, sauces and other foods. Olive oil should never be used for frying food items. Olive oil is an healthy option for salad dressing and also in making mayonnaise or other dishes.

5. Turmeric

Turmeric is known to be one of the most essential ingredients in Asian curries. More and more people are turning towards this ingredient for it's health benefits. It has been used as a medicine for it's healing properties and other health benefits. But research has also shown that turmeric can prevent or fight cancer. Turmeric spice contains an active anti-cancer compound known as curcumin. Curcumin is said to have chemo-preventive and radio-protective properties. The curcumin present inside turmeric is known to fight many types of cancer including bone cancer, thoracic cancers, ovarian cancer, cancers of liver, stomach, breast and skin. Been on the scientific radar for quite some time, turmeric is one of the wonder foods that can fight cancer.

Tip: Turmeric can be consumed by adding in curries and vegetable preparations. Additionally one could just add turmeric to hot water or hot milk and drink to achieve maximum benefits.

6. Walnut

Walnut is one such miracle foods that cure cancer or help fighting it. It is said that most of the nuts are pertinent and inclusive into a cancer preventive diet. But most of all, walnuts fit the category well enough. Walnuts contain Omega-3 fatty acid namely alpha-linolenic acid which can down-regulate cell proliferation of prostate cancer cells, breast cancer cells and bladder cancer cells. Consumption of walnuts can interfere and discourage the development of cancer. In fact it could also instigate the death of cancer cells.

Tip: A handful of walnuts everyday can help more than one can imagine. Hence instead of craving on some junk food such as fries or chips, how about eating a handful of walnuts! Crushed or chopped walnuts can also be used as toppings for salads, ice-creams, milkshakes, cake toppings and other dishes.

7. Garlic

Garlic is one of the super foods that is known for its natural antioxidants. It has such super healing properties and is known to be an essential herb for healthier lifestyle. Garlic has tremendous potential when it comes to fighting cancer. Garlic is one of the most important cancer fighting herbs as it can detoxify the potential carcinogens. The phytochemicals present inside each and every clove of garlic fights and helps eradicate cancer. The sulfur compounds present within garlic can strengthen and stimulate our body's immune system and initiate our body's natural defense system against the cancerous cells by preventing its growth.

But instead of eating a whole garlic clove, it is recommended to crush or chop it. Crushed or chopped garlic is known to release allicin. Allicin is known to lower the risks of esophageal cancer, stomach cancer, pancreatic cancer and colon cancer. Recent research has shown that garlic compounds can produce reactive oxygen species in brain cancer cells which could gorge them to death. When included in daily diet by women, it could prevent and fight breast cancer.

Tip: Consuming 1 to 2 cloves of garlic per day could help in decreasing the risk of colon and stomach cancer. Garlic can be chopped and added to salads, sandwiches and wraps. Garlic oil is also known to have cancer fighting properties.

8. Green Tea

Green tea is said to be the best tea for cancer fighting patients. Green tea and the phenolic compounds present within it such as the 'Catechins' are potential antioxidants and natural phenol. The cancer preventive properties of catechins are studied and researched at. Apart from being a potential antioxidant the polyphenols in green tea exhibit anti-inflammatory properties as well as tumor-inhibiting properties. Regular intake of green tea may primarily help in reducing the risk of cancer. The catechins in the green tea could alter the risk of prostate cancer. Green tea intake has also been found to work on shrinking tumors. In fact green tea is also beneficial for preventing and fighting skin cancer. Additionally green tea also helps in detoxification which is an essential element for cancer patients.

Tip: Sip green tea once or twice a day regularly.

9. Black Pepper

One of the important cancer fighting spices and herbs list include black pepper as super food. Black pepper contains 'Piperine' which is one of the important ingredient of herbal and Ayurvedic medicines. Piperine is an alkaloid of black pepper which can inhibit growth of cancer cells of colon. Piperine is not just a well acknowledged antioxidant but also a anti-tumor agent and an anti-proliferative agent. No wonder Ayurveda crowns black pepper 'The king of spices' award. Black pepper has high levels of antioxidants that can help the body fight against oxidative stress and harmful pathogens that could give our body serious diseases such as cancer. Some of the other phytochemicals present inside black pepper such as Limonene is considered to have anti-cancer properties.

Tip: Black pepper can be freshly crushed or grounded to use in many dishes. It can be sprinkled over soups, salads, roast and meat dishes. Black pepper can also work as an alternative for salt.

10. Oregano

Oregano is definitely part of the top cancer fighting food because it is a miracle herb. We enjoy sprinkling or adding oregano to our foods for the flavors it imparts. But apart from that oregano should be included in our food because it can be beneficial for our body. Oregano has high levels of antioxidants which can help neutralize free radical damage to our cells. Oregano can help in preventing and fighting cancers such as breast cancer. The primary component present inside oregano is namely carvacrol which can help in prevention and growth of colon cancer and cervical cancer.

Tip: Oregano can be used fresh as well as dried. Oregano can be used in various dishes such as salads, pastas, pizza and marinades. It can be sprinkled to give an amazing flavor and aroma to dishes that are steamed, sauteed or boiled. Fresh oregano can be fused into oil to imbibe an amazing flavor. It can be used to make various sauces and dips.

10 Fruits and Vegetables for Healthy Glowing Skin

2019-01-18T19:18:00.000+05:30

The lifestyle we enjoy today could be a reason why our skin doesn't glow anymore. The problems that our skin face ranging from acne, premature ageing, wrinkles and dryness could only worsen with the use of cosmetics and dirt our skin faces everyday. Though the daily cleansers and occasional face packs do work their way(topical fixes), yet they cannot provide you with a regular nourishment the skin requires. But that does not mean having a glowing and healthy skin is a lost cause. We often wonder how can get glowing skin naturally, because cosmetics are just topical indulgence. Natural wonders such as honey helps in glowing skin, also alowe vera gives glowing skin. So does a daily intake of certain fruits and vegetables.Including fruits and vegetables in our diet ensure not just a healthy well-being but a beautiful , healthy glowing skin. And here is a list of top ten fruits and vegetables that promises us the same.

10 Fruits and Vegetables for Healthy Glowing Skin

1. Indian Gooseberry (Amla)

Indian gooseberry or commonly referred as amla or awala is a miracle fruit which is rich in Vitamin A. The benefits of Amla are well known to us when it comes to maintaining a good health. Amla is known to treat a sore throat, reduce blood sugar, boost immunity and increase metabolic activity. But rarely people know that including amla in our daily diet ensures maintaining a glowing and fresh skin. It is a storehouse for nutrients and daily intake of this fruit promises glowing skin and hair.

Tip - Amla can be included in your daily diet as a fruit or one can consume amla juice everyday early in the morning. Mix 15 ml of amla juice in a glass of water and drink it early morning everyday.

2. Apple

"An apple a day, keeps the doctor away."

This is what we know about this fruit and add it to our daily diet. But few know that apple has anti ageing properties. People do ask how apple is good for skin? Including apple in your daily food could keep wrinkles at bay. The Vitamin C present inside apple lessens wrinkles and gives a glowing skin. So here's the new mantra - 'An apple a day, keeps wrinkles away.' The skin friendly nutrients inside apple works wonder on our skin and help protect the skin from UV rays and pigmentation. Apple fruit is known to offer a protection against tanning and including it in your daily diet also ensures skin brightening and glowing.

Tip - Eat one apple everyday. Occasionally use apple pulp in face-packs or just apply apple pulp on face and keep for 10 minutes. Wash your face with lukewarm water. Do it at least once a week.

3. Beet root

Beet root is one such wonder food which can provide our body lots of benefits. It is highly nutritional and should be included widely in our daily diet. Few know that beetroot juice helps treating acne and pimples. It also works as a cleanser and purifies blood. The anti-oxidants present inside beetroot has anti-ageing properties. Beetroot should be included in daily diet as it helps in fighting acne, blemishes, dark spots, dark circles and dry skin. Beetroot is also known to be beneficial in skin whitening and skin glow. Beetroot juice if applied regularly on lips make them pink and soft.

Tip - Include beetroot juice in your daily diet. There are several benefits of drinking beetroot juice daily. Steamed and cooked beetroot is good to digest and helps in glowing skin.

4. Carrot

The beta-carotene present in carrots is a good source of Vitamin A which is highly beneficial for skin. Including carrot in our daily diet helps maintain a glowing and healthy skin. The beta-carotene within the carrot can work wonders for our skin as it can slower down ageing process, helps remove acne, remove wrinkles and provide us with glowing skin.

Tip - Include carrot grated or diced in our regular diet. You can also enjoy carrot juice during breakfast. Adding carrot juice to face packs help a lot in skin glow. After removing juice from the carrot, the residue can be used as a face scrub.

5. Lemon

Lemon is a wonder fruit that helps the skin maintain its beauty and glow. Lemon is rich in Vitamin C which provides good nourishment to skin. The juice of lemon can help remove blemishes, scars, black-spots, blackheads, acne and dark circles. Lemon can turn a dull looking skin into a healthy glowing skin. Regular use of lemon promises lightening of skin along with a natural glow. Lemon juice also helps to lighten the tanned skin.

Tip - Drink one glass lukewarm water mixed with 1 tsp lemon juice early morning every day. We can add lemon juice in salad dressings and chutneys. Lemon juice can also be added to face packs and face scrubs.

6. Spinach

Spinach has powerful antioxidants like Vitamin A and carotenoid which lessen the anti-ageing process. The omega 3 fatty acids present inside the spinach dehydrates the skin and helps those with dry skin problem. Spinach also has skin lightening properties. Including spinach in your regular diet also helps in glowing complexion. It is known to prevent or fight acne and dark spots. Spinach juice can also help to get rid of dark circles.

Tip - Spinach leaves can be added to breakfast varieties, rotis or parathas. Cooked spinach can be added in vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Spinach juice can be mixed up with other juices like beet root, apple, or mixed vegetables to be included as a breakfast variety. Cooked spinach pulp can also be used in face packs.

7. Tomato

Of all known vegetables and fruits, tomatoes comes as a winner! Tomatoes are highly beneficial for healthy and glowing skin. Tomatoes contain antioxidant named lycopene. Lycopene is known to keep skin healthy and glowing. Consuming tomatoes daily can help in severe skin related problems. It has anti-ageing properties, helps in glowing skin, treats over open pores, works as an astringent and removes dark spots. Tomato is a known natural bleaching agent and rubbing tomato slice on your face can be highly beneficial. It not just reduce skin pores but help remove dark circles and rejuvenate skin.

Tip - Include tomatoes raw or cooked in your daily diet. Use tomato pulp in face packs or scrubs. Take a tomato slice and slowly rub on your face, leave it for 5 to 10 minutes and wash with lukewarm water. Do this at least once a week.

8. Sweet Potato

Sweet potatoes too are good source of beta-carotene and hence come highly beneficial for skin. The Vitamin A present in sweet potatoes help fight pimples and acne. Sweet potatoes are also known to reduce oil from the skin and thus de-clog your skin pores.

Tip - Usually in India, sweet potatoes are consumed only during fast. But they need to be included in our daily diet. One can eat boiled or roasted sweet potatoes. The best and simple way to eat and enjoy sweet potatoes is to boil and remove the skin. Sprinkle some salt and pepper and just eat it.

9. Strawberry

Strawberry is one of the most appetizing treat for our skin. It's acidic nature helps get rid of the excess oil thus helping us get rid of pimple and acne. The Vitamin C in strawberry works wonder for our skin making it healthy and beautiful. Strawberry is also known to lighten the skin and bring radiance.

Tip - Always enjoy seasonal strawberries. Add strawberry paste to your face packs. Or you could just use strawberry paste as a face scrub. Mix strawberry paste with curd or honey and apply on the skin for 10 minutes. Wash it off with lukewarm water.

10. Papaya

Last but not least, the angel fruit papaya is just the right thing for the skin. Papaya is a versatile fruit as its daily consumption can work wonders for your skin. The nutrients contents within papaya are known for rejuvenating skin and bringing a glow. When used in face packs, papaya helps tighten pores and removes blemishes. Regular use can make skin healthy and glowing.

Tip - Include papaya fruit as a part of daily diet preferably for breakfast. Use papaya fruit paste in face packs or scrubs. Papaya is also used during facials and anti-acne masks.

Learn more about How to make an instant homemade anti-wrinkle face mask

Learn more about How to bring an instant glow on your face

How to Get The Best Out of Fruits and Vegetables

2018-10-21T18:35:00.001+05:30

To get the best out of the vegetables and fruits, one should follow certain rules:

1. Always choose seasonal fresh produce.

2. Do not keep fruits and vegetables at home for a long time. Consume them before they meet the expiry date.

3. Do not wash a vegetable or a fruit after peeling. Washing should be done before peeling.

4. While peeling certain fruit or vegetable certain care needs to be taken. Peel only the inedible skin. Do not peel deep inside the skin, as the nutrients such as vitamins and minerals are generally stored beneath and chances are they can get lost with excessive peeling.

5. Do not over-soak. Prolonged soaking can draw out the water soluble nutrients.

6. Vegetables and fruits should be cooked for shortest time possible on low heat.

7. Minimal water should be used while cooking.

Health Benefits of Flax Seeds

2018-09-30T10:36:00.002+05:30

Flax seeds are also known as linseed or common flax or locally alsi. These seeds come in two varieties one brown and other golden yellow. Irrespective of color, flax seeds contain high nutritional values and equal amounts of omega-3 fatty acids. Flax seeds are slightly larger in size as compared to sesame seeds. They have smooth and shiny hard shell. The nutty flavor of flax seeds is becoming quite popular among health conscious consumers. Flax seeds are available in stores throughout the year. They should be consumed in proper proportion. Excessive consumption may cause diarrhea.

How to Consume Flax seeds

Flax seeds can be consumed either roasted or powdered. Flax seeds when roasted taste crunchy and can be eaten as it is or by adding in salads or as mouth-freshener. Powdered flax seeds can be added to smoothies and cereals.

Learn more about How to make homemade flax seeds mouth freshner(mukhwas)

How to store Flax seeds

Flax seeds can be stored at room temperature for as long as four months. Once you buy flax seeds, store them in airtight container. Powdered flax seeds stay fresh as little as one week only if it is stored in airtight container in the refrigerator.

Culinary Uses of Flax seeds

1. Flax seeds can be added to oatmeal, smoothies, curd, yogurt or water once it is grounded or powdered.

2. Sprouted flax seeds are edible and can be consumed just as any other sprouts. They have a light spicy flavour.

3. Grounded flax seeds can also be added to casseroles, baked dished and snack foods.

4. Whole flax seeds can be added to salads, multi-grain or whole wheat bread, crackers, muffins and energy bars.

5. Sprinkle grounded or whole flax seeds(slightly roasted) on your morning cereal, milkshakes or cooked oats.

6. Grounded or whole flax seeds can also be sprinkled on cooked vegetables.

Health Benefits of Flax seeds

1. Flax seeds are known to contain high levels of lignans which are considered to be beneficial for the heart.

2. Flax seeds contain anti-cancer properties.

3. Being rich source of Omega-3 fatty acids, flax seeds is one of the best vegan health options for foods.

4. Flax seed meal and flour are considered to be high source of fiber and hence can help lower cholesterol levels.

5. Hair massage with flax seed gel is said to stimulate and nourish hair follicles, thus improving blood circulation.

6. Daily consumption of flax seeds is said to be highly beneficial for the skin. It is said to minimize skin rashes and skin irritations. It also moistens the skin and helps get rid of wrinkles.

7. Flax seeds is highly recommended in weight loss diet as consuming flax seeds benefits to loss weight.

Side Effects of Flax seeds

Though flax seeds consumption is good for our health, yet over-consumption of flax seeds can have its own side effects. Flax seeds are to be consumed daily in measured proportion, say about 1 to 2 tablespoons a day per individual. People consuming more than this dosage may experience increase in bowel movements, diarrhea, stomachache, nausea, constipation and bloating. If flax seeds are grounded and stored, then they should be consumed within the mentioned time limit or they could turn rancid.

How to Get Rid of Ants Naturally

2018-07-21T18:30:00.005+05:30

Ants are real pests. They can be a big menace and just bundle up anywhere, especially in the kitchen - around the cabinets or near the food shelf. You get rid of one line of ants, and there they are making a whole new line with great enthusiasm. They are unstoppable and can beat you up. But there are still ways to get rid of ants from your house. Though in doing so we need to be persistent too just like the ants. Take little care everyday, for a few days and you can get rid of ants from your house.

7 Ways to Get Rid of Ants Naturally

1. First of all, the question is what attracts ants into your house or why are ants in your house? The answer is ants are attracted to the sugar scent in the house. They are also attracted to food items like flour, oil, grease, suji(rawa), chocolate and candy wrappers and sweet snacks. So it is important that you get rid of these food scents which attract ants. This can be done by cleaning and wiping out any food spills immediately after cooking. Cleaning with water will not get rid of the smell. Use mild soap solution or vinegar to wipe out food smells.

2. Investigate and find out the holes and cracks from where the ants enter in your house. You will find cracks or holes in and around the wall cabinets, electric switches, pipes, kitchen tiles, gap between floor tiles etc which act as the passage for ants. Once you find these places, seal them off immediately.

3. Book a pest control and get it done thoroughly in the kitchen. Mention the ant problem to person administering pest control and show him the areas the ant frequently visit. The pest control services have special non-toxic sprays that they spray all over the area visited by ants. These sprays have long lasting effects and can stay for a couple of months.

4. Certain essential oils such as cinnamon oil and peppermint oil are known to keep ants at bay. Dip a cotton bud in the oil and apply in the area where you see ants regularly.

5. Vinegar has a special effect on ants. It not only kills ants but also masks the food smell for them. Mix vinegar (white or apple cider) with equal amount of water and fill the solution in a spray bottle. Spray this solution regularly to get rid of ants naturally from your house.

6. Mix Vinegar and water in equal parts and add 2 lemon juice to it. Mix well and pour this solution in a big spray bottle. If you have ant menace in a particular area of kitchen, regularly spray this solution at least three times a day. It really helps. Keep spraying for a few days, even if there is no sign of ants.

7. Borax can also be sprinkled around the corners of floor, where you find ant menace. You can also create a bait for ants by mixing borax with little sugar and placing it in a small container near areas where ants frequently visit. Ants confuse borax with sugar and carry them over. Borax can kill ants and help you get rid of it.

How To Get Rid of Flies From Your Home During Monsoon

2018-07-10T14:31:00.000+05:30

One of the most annoying thing about monsoon is the constant buzzing of flies in the house. These little pests are extremely annoying and irritating. They fly all around the house, create a ruckus in the kitchen and not only create disturbances for us but also spread germs all over the house and make us sick. We have to be very careful during monsoon about keeping food covered. We can't let the flies seat on our food and spread diseases. No wonder, monsoon records for high rate of stomach infections and diarrhea. So here are some tips to get rid of flies from your home during monsoon.

10 Easy Tips to Get Rid of Flies From Your Home During Monsoon

1. Place a Indian basil plant near the kitchen. Indian basil(tulsi) can help keep the flies at bay.

2. Some natural and essential oils such as Eucalyptus oil, lavender oil, lemon grass oil and peppermint oil come very handy to get rid of the flies. What you should do is soak a big cotton ball in anyone of these oils and place it in a airtight container. Now place this container in the room frequently visited by flies and open the lid. It really works. The flies clear the room in a matter of minutes.

3. Always keep your kitchen counter clean all the time. Once you finish cooking, make sure you get rid of every food particle and dirt from the kitchen top. Remove grease residue and clean the kitchen counter with a mild cleanser.

4. Always cover the cooked food. Cover everything that is left open in kitchen - this includes milk vessel, cooked food, chopped fruits, vegetables or salad. Don't allow the flies to sit on the food and spread germs.

5. Have a fly swatter at home. Fly swatter is the best equipment that comes handy to get rid of flies.

6. Take care of your pets. If you have pets in house, ensure that they are kept clean. Give them regular washes and also wash there legs when they come from outside walks. Dirty pets attract flies.

7. Take care of the house plants. Ensure that the plant pots in your house are free of dry and wet leaves. Plus do water the plants only when needed. Do not add more water and make the surrounding areas wet. This water when gets mixed with the loose soil lying nearby the pots becomes a place for flies and mosquito breeding.

8. Put fly mesh on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes, flies and other flying pests away from your house. This way you don't need to keep your windows and doors closed all the time.

9. Use a strong disinfectant or phenyl to clean the floors. Remove any fallen food particle from the floor.

10. Ensure that you house is always clean during monsoon. Place a floor mat outside your main door and always rub your shoes on the mat before entering the house. Regularly wash the floor mats.

Simple Fish Cake Recipe

2018-03-27T18:14:00.003+05:30

Fish cakes are everyone's favourite. They are simple to make, require very few ingredients, are less messy and taste great. Ingredients such as lemon grass, ginger and Kaffir lime leaves used to make these fish cakes give it a tangy taste and a Thai twist. Serves as an excellent party starter or any time snack.

Ingredients for Simple Fish Cake Recipe

White fish fillet - 350 gm
Kaffir lime leaves - 2
Onion - 1, small
Ginger - 2 to 3 slices
Garlic flakes - 2
Lemon grass - 1 tsp chopped
Coriander leaves - 1 tbsp, finely chopped
Fish sauce - 1 tbsp
Potato - 1 large, boiled and mashed
Green chili - 1
Egg - 1, beaten
Peanuts - 1 tbsp, crushed
Green beans - 8, thinly sliced
Breadcrumbs
Salt
Oil, for frying

Method for Simple Fish Cake Recipe

Blanch the lime leaves in hot water. Allow to cool and shred them.

Grind onion, ginger, garlic, lemon grass and green chili to fine paste.

Put this paste in a food processor and add fish, fish sauce, mashed potato, peanuts and salt. Process till smooth paste.

Remove in the plate and add to it chopped coriander leaves, thinly sliced green beans and shredded lime leaves.

Mix well and divide in equal portions. Flatten the fish cake, roll in breadcrumbs and shallow fry on medium hot oil till golden in colour on both sides.

Serve hot with a dipping sauce.

Tip

You can use fresh lime leaves as a substitute for Kafir lime leaves.

How To Make Fresh Creamy Yogurt at Home

2018-03-08T18:01:00.000+05:30

A simple way of preparing yogurt at home is to adding warm milk into a preferably ceramic bowl along with a starter yogurt (starter yogurt is a small quantity of yogurt left out from the previous batch). This mixture is mixed, covered and allowed to stand for 4 to 5 hours. This process is undisturbed to acquire the best result which is thick curd that tastes good and has a good consistency. A runny curd is not what you wish to acquire as a result. But regular practice and little care can help you prepare the best creamy yogurt. Moreover special care should be taken while preparing yogurt.

8 Tips to For Making Fresh Yogurt at Home

For instance, while making yogurt at home make sure that

1. The milk that is used for making yogurt is fresh.

2. The milk that is to be used for making yogurt should be warm not hot or boiling.

3. Also the container and spoon that is used to make yogurt should be clean and dry.

4. If you plan to use the same container that was used yesterday to prepare yogurt, make sure that the container is clean and dry. Never use the same container without washing.

5. If this is for the first time you are giving a try on making yogurt, you can use store-bought yogurt as the starter milk. But see that the store-bought yogurt is fresh, not too sour and thick.

6. A container that has the capacity to hold up heat is the right container to make yogurt. Containers such as ceramic bowls with lids or small porcelain jar with lids that can trap heat work as a best solution. But you can also use stainless steel bowls.

7. Few are known to include gelatin while making yogurt. Use of gelatin is said to enrich the creaminess of yogurt. But this option is not for vegetarians. Hence even a fresh active culture can surprisingly make a yogurt much creamier.

8. The yogurt mixture can be kept overnight to set, if it is to be consumed next morning or next day.

Learn more about

12 Ways to Cook With Yogurt

12 Health Benefits of Yogurt

Tip on Setting Curd Faster During Winters

How to Set a Quick Curd

12 Ways to Cook With Yogurt

2018-03-04T19:26:00.000+05:30

Yogurt is known to be used as one of the main ingredients in most of the cooking. You could use yogurt for making gravies, you could use it for marinades, you could add them to chutneys, you could make curries, you could use it to make desserts. Thus yogurt can work wonders in your kitchen. We could enjoy the maximum health benefits of yogurt only if we knew how to incorporate it in cooking. There are still many wonders of yogurt that we sometimes are unaware of. For instance you could use them as thickening agents, as tenderizers or substitute for cream. When it comes to cooking with yogurt, we need to follow some rules. Here are some tips that could help you to cook with yogurt.

12 Ways to Cook With Yogurt

1. Yogurt is an excellent option to thicken sauces. It works as a substitute for heavy cream. But whenever using yogurt as an thickening agent, make sure that you keep a watch. Or there is a possibility of curdling. To avoid curdling, make sure you add 2 tsp of cornstarch or 1 tbsp of flour to yogurt and make a paste. Keep whisking on a low flame until the sauce thickens and simmers. Never allow the sauce to boil.

2. There is a possibility that yogurt could separate and curdle when added to hot liquids. Hence in such cases make sure you use yogurt at room temperature.

3. If you need to freeze yogurt, you can do it up to six weeks. Make sure you freeze it in an airtight container. The results of yogurt may vary once they are thawed. Never re-freeze yogurt once thawed. There is a possibility that the yogurt may go little runny. This usually depends upon the quality of brand and the additives in it.

4. The acidity content of the yogurt makes it a great tenderizer and hence can be used to tenderize meat.

5. Yogurt should never be whisked vigorously. Instead it is advisable to fold yogurt gently with the other ingredients the recipe calls for.

6. For people who worry a lot about calories and choose their ingredients carefully, the ideal pick for them would be yogurt, as it is best substitute for mayonnaise and sour cream. Yogurt can be incorporated in salads as dressing to quit worrying about calories and enjoying food guilt-free.

7. For weight watchers who enjoy health diet plans, the ideal way to bake recipes is by substituting cream with yogurt.

8. Yogurt can also be used for tenderizing baked items like bread loaves which need to be moist.

9. Yogurt can be the best acidic counterpart for baking soda to produce a leavening effect.

10. To lengthen the storage period of yogurt, add some sugar to it.

11. If you wish to prevent the souring of yogurt, add a piece of coconut to it.

12. If while cooking yogurt curdles, there is still a chance you could fix it. Make a paste of cornstarch and all purpose flour in a ratio of 1:2 along with little water. Make a thick paste and add to the gravy. Cook on slow flame and continue stirring until the gravy thickens and recombines.

12 Health Benefits of Yogurt

2018-02-26T20:15:00.001+05:30

Call it curd or even simply our 'desi dahi'; the deliciousness of yogurt never fails to amaze us. It is not just any dairy product but an important component of our daily diet. In India yogurt is a one of our staple diet. Right from Kashmir to Kanyakumari yogurt is consumed in different forms depending on their varied climatic conditions. Some of these different forms includes buttermilk, lassi, curd rice, chaas, kadi or simply curd with little sugar. The best part of yogurt is that it is tasty enough to be consumed just as it is. Fresh yogurt is made in most of the Indian homes every single day. Yogurt is basically a form of curdled milk which is prepared by fermenting the milk with an addition of a bacteria and allowed to coagulate the milk to thicken into a creamy texture. Apart from cow milk and buffalo milk, lately yogurt is also been made with Soya milk.

Learn more about 12 Ways to Cook With Yogurt

12 Health Benefits of Yogurt

1. Consuming yogurt is nourishing as it is an important source of protein, essential vitamins, calcium and roboflavin.

2. Importantly people who have problem digesting milk can opt for yogurt instead.

3. The millions of 'friendly live and active' bacteria culture that the body gets when we consume yogurt helps our body in many ways. These bacteria that are present in yogurt, break down the lactose that we consume and make it easier to digest.

4. Consumption of yogurt is also beneficial for patients with disorders such as diarrhea, constipation, dysentery and colitis.

5. Yogurt is also known to fight harmful bacteria which causes food poisoning.

6. One of the most important benefit of consuming yogurt regularly is that it is known to keep ulcer causing bacteria in control.

7. The common misconception that yogurt should not be consumed by one who suffers from sore throat is actually a myth. Fresh yogurt can be consumed anytime even during cold. This rule of avoiding yogurt during cold and sore throat applies to refrigerated yogurt, sour yogurt and stale yogurt.

8. Regular consumption of yogurt is beneficial in controlling the burning and itching caused during vaginal infections.

9. Consumption of yogurt helps ease out the burning and itching sensation caused in rectum.

10. Yogurt acts as an excellent moisturizer for your skin. Applying yogurt just itself or mixing it along with honey, lemon juice, and aloe vera serves as excellent beauty packs and acne pack.

11. Yogurt act as a fantastic hair conditioner for hair. Yogurt can be mixed with henna, aloe vera, egg, honey or lemon for an excellent hair pack that boosts hair growth and provides awesome shine to your hair.

12. Last but not least, one serving of yogurt everyday is associated with longevity. Consumption of yogurt can keep many health related problems at bay and thus help you achieve a healthy, long life.

Fish Moilee Recipe

2018-02-23T18:20:00.000+05:30

Fish Moilee or Meen Moilee is one of the traditional and well known recipes of Kerala. Meen Moilee is traditionally cooked with Surmai or seer fish but one can experiment with almost any kind of fish. Surely the results would turn out fabulous. I am using fish fillets in the following recipe, but traditionally sliced fish is used commonly. Make sure to use thick slices if you are cooking with sliced fish. Do not over cook the fish.

Ingredients for Fish Moilee Recipe

Fish fillet - 500 gm, cut in large cubes
Coconut milk (thick) - 1/2 cup
Coconut milk (thin) - 2 cups
(Use one large coconut to first extract 1/2 cup of thick milk and then followed by 2 cups of thin coconut milk)
Onion - 1, sliced
Tomato - 1, cubed
Curry leaves - 10/15 leaves
Mustard seeds - 1/2 tsp
Coriander leaves - 1 tbsp, chopped
Green chilies - 5 to 6, slit
Coconut oil - 2 tbsp (you can also use olive oil)
Turmeric powder - 1/2 tsp
Coriander powder - 1 tsp
Cumin powder - 1 tsp
Garlic - 8 cloves
Ginger - 1 tbsp, crushed
Red chili - 4
Cashew nuts - 5 to 6
Coconut slivers - 2"
Salt, to taste

Method for Fish Moilee Recipe

Grind to paste garlic, ginger, red chili, coconut sliver and cashew nut. Set aside.

Heat oil and add to it mustard seeds, green chilies, onion and half the curry leaves. Saute till onions are transparent.

Add the ground masala, coriander powder, cumin powder, turmeric and continue to saute till the raw smell of the masala fades.

Add thin coconut milk, salt and mix well. Gently add to this the fish slices. Add tomatoes and rest of the curry leaves.

Lower the heat and simmer till fish is almost cooked. Add the thick coconut milk and continue to simmer till the gravy turns thick. Garnish with coriander leaves.

Serve hot with rice.

Mutton Mince and Aubergine Rolls Recipe

2018-02-12T16:41:00.002+05:30

The Mutton mince and aubergine rolls work as a perfect starter with a twist! The recipe is easy and serves as a kebab made with eggplant and mutton mince. Most importantly it is baked, but you also have an option of deep frying in absence of oven. Being baked makes it oil free and guilt free to enjoy. Perfect idea for party starters or snacks when served with a green salad. The following portion can serve 5 to 6 and takes 30 to 35 minutes to cook.

Ingredients for Mutton Mince and Aubergine Rolls Recipe

Aubergine (big brinjal/eggplant) - 1 to 2, should weigh 500 gm each
Mutton mince - 500 gm
Onion - 1 big, finely chopped
Mint leaves - 1/4th cup, roughly chopped
Coriander leaves - 1/4th cup, roughly chopped
Green chilies - 2 to 3
Black pepper powder - 1 to 2 tsp
Egg - 2
Breadcrumbs - 1 cup
Oil - 2 tbsp

Method for Mutton Mince and Aubergine Rolls Recipe

Lightly brush aubergines with oil and roast on live flame until well cooked. Once done, remove in a bowl and allow it to cool down.Once cool remove the skin and gently mash the flesh with a fork.

Mix the mince with the eggplant mash. Add to this mint leaves, coriander leaves, pepper, salt and finely chopped onions. Mix well.

Beat eggs and add them into the aubergine-mince mix. Divide the mix into equal portions and shape each portion into long rolls.

Gently roll each in breadcrumbs and place in a greased baking dish. Keep distance between each rolls.

Pre-heat an oven to 200 degrees C and then bake the mutton mince and aubergine rolls for 12 to 15 minutes. Serve hot with a green salad.

Overweight Child Diet Plans

2018-01-27T09:11:00.002+05:30

Starving your overweight child to lose weight is not done. If you seriously wonder how your overweight child can lose weight, you will have to undertake some strong measures yourselves. This would include ensuring that your overweight child enjoys healthy diet plans that can help him lose weight. A healthy diet plan for an overweight child would include cutting down on lot of junk and including healthy food items in the menu that taste good and are beneficial for them.

Overweight Child Diet Plans

Discuss With Your Child's Doctor

Before making any diet plans for your overweight child it is advisable to consult with your doctor. A doctor can determine your child's obesity and accordingly suggest the right diet for your child - What needs to be included and what needs to be excluded from the diet. Accordingly you can make diet plans for your overweight child.

Include Healthy Replacement Options

Including healthy replacement options for the existing ones can help tremendously while making overweight child diet plans. This replacements can help your child lose weight and can also make up for the missing nutrients in your child's body. Some healthy replacement food options are listed in the table below:

No	Regular Food Options	Healthy Replacements
1.	White rice	Brown rice
2.	Refined flour	Whole wheat flour, Multigrain flour
3.	Aerated Drinks	Fruit and vegetable Smoothies, fresh fruit juices
4.	Chocolate bars	Homemade protein bars, granola bars
5.	Ice creams	Fruit popsicles
6.	Sugary cereals	Wholegrain cereals, oats
7.	Pasta	Whole-wheat pasta
8.	Burgers	Healthy sandwiches
9.	Butter	Low fat butter, margarine
10	Whole milk	Low fat milk, soy milk

Encourage Your Child's Involvement in Diet Planning

Involving your child in diet planning helps in a big way. Once you help your child understand how important it is to include healthy foods in your daily diet, involve him or her in your plans for diet plans to lose weight. Take your child grocery shopping and give him an option of choosing his healthy food and drinks. Teach your child how to read food labels and learn about healthy food.

Go For Healthy Snacking

Healthy snacking allows you to nibble on some awesome food options without worrying about calories and putting on weight. For instance instead of munching fried chips, one can try healthy snacking on dry fruits. Involve your children in kitchen by allowing them to help you prepare some healthy snacks at home such as protein bars or granola bars. Kids can always help in making healthy salads or other kid friendly foods such as fruit muffins or fruit flavored yogurt. More they involve in food making process, more they opt to eat and enjoy the healthy foods. Some healthy snacking options can include:

- popcorn without butter

- cucumber, baby carrots and cherry tomatoes lightly tossed with salt and pepper

- yogurt with fresh fruits

- fresh fruits

- fruit muffins

- fruit smoothies

Try Recipes Which Allow Hiding Your Child's Disliked Food Items

Vegetables like broccoli, spinach, beetroot always end up in most disliked foods by kids. Parents often wonder how to incorporate these foods as part of their kid's healthy diet plans. So maybe such foods can find their way in your child's weight in a disguised way. Instead of including these foods in their actual format you could mash them and disguise them to make their way in your child's food without fuss. For examples smoothies, soup, kebabs, cutlets are great way of incorporating food items in a tasty way.

Learn more about how your overweight child can lose weight

10 Tips While Planning Overweight Child Diet Plans

1. Keep in check your child's like and dislikes for certain food. Like for instance few children hate vegetables like broccoli, pumpkin or even bottle-gourd.

2. Remove items such as whole cream, refined flour, excessive sugar, salt, etc from the menu.

3. Include healthy options such as olive oil or reduced fat cheese and cream.

4. Replace refined flour varieties with whole grain varieties. For instance whole wheat biscuits instead of regular biscuits, whole wheat bread instead of white bread.

5. Plan diet revolving around small food portions. Avoid large portions, instead serve your child small portions of food five to six times a day.

6. Include more fruits and vegetables in your diet plan.

7. Include lean meat instead of meat portions with high fat.

8. Prepare healthy food options and keep them in reach for a child to nibble on when hungry. This could include home-made protein bars, smoothies, granola bars, sliced fruits, or homemade fruit flavored yogurt.

9. Include low fat milk or cow milk in your overweight child diet plans instead of whole milk. You could also include Soy products such as soy milk and tofu.

10. While eating out, encourage your child to opt for healthy options other than fried items.

Sweet Corn with Mayonnaise Grilled Sandwich Recipe

2017-11-14T12:02:00.001+05:30

Sweet Corn with Mayonnaise Grilled Sandwich is a perfect breakfast recipe, easy to make and few of it's steps could be prepared well in advance like the preparation of chutney could be done a day before and stored in the refrigerator. This recipe can be a perfect breakfast option or anytime snack for kids. This recipe can also serve as a perfect lunch-box idea!

Ingredients for Sweet Corn with Mayonnaise Grilled Sandwich Recipe

Whole wheat bread - 4 slices
Sweet Corn - 1 cup, boiled
Cheese Slices - 2
Mayonnaise - 1/2 cup
Mustard sauce - 1 tbsp
Green Capsicum - 2 tbsp, finely chopped
Yellow Capsicum - 1 tbsp, finely chopped
Red Capsicum - 1 tbsp, finely chopped
Coriander leaves - 1/2 cup, rinsed
Green chili - 1 or 2
Peanuts - 1 tbsp
Readymade Sev(crunchy noodles prepared from chickpea flour) - 1 tbsp
Lemon juice - 1 tbsp
Salt
Pepper
Sugar - 1/2 tsp

Method for Sweet Corn with Mayonnaise Grilled Sandwich Recipe

To prepare the chutney, grind coriander leaves along with peanuts, green chili, sev, lemon juice, salt, pepper and sugar. Make a fine paste and set aside.

In a bowl, mix boiled sweet corn along with all colored capsicums, mayonnaise and mustard sauce. Add the green chutney and mix well.

Spread heaped spoonful of sweet corn mayonnaise mixture on bread and place a cheese slice on the top. Cover it with a bread slice. Grill the sandwich and serve.

Easy Indian Chicken Curry Recipe - Gavthi Chicken Recipe

2017-11-05T15:27:00.000+05:30

Gavthi Chicken or country chicken often refers to Country Rooster Chicken which is bony and lean and the meat of such chicken is on a tougher side and takes a bit longer to cook than the normal broiler chicken. But such country rooster chicken meat imparts delicious flavour to the curry and rather it is said that it is the curry that is to be enjoyed other than the chicken! Here is an easy Indian Chicken curry recipe which includes coconut, sesame and cumin seeds to impart delicious flavours to the chicken curry.

Ingredients for Easy Indian Chicken Curry Recipe

Indian Country Rooster (gavthi chicken) - 800 gm
Onion - 3 medium
Dry coconut - 1/2 cup, desiccated
Sesame seeds - 1 tsp
Cumin seeds - 1 tsp
Garlic - 8 cloves
Ginger - 1 inch
Coriander leaves - 1/2 cup, washed
Turmeric powder - 1 tsp
Green chili - 2
Salt
Oil - 2 to 3 tbsp
Coriander leaves, for garnish

Method for Easy Indian Chicken Curry Recipe

Clean the gavthi chicken and rub it with turmeric, salt and little oil. Allow it to stay so for 30 minutes.

Roast one whole onion on gas flame. Keep on turning it sides, till done.

Dry roast sesame seeds, cumin seeds and dry coconut on a tawa. Allow the onion, sesame seeds, cumin seeds and coconut to cool.

Heat a heavy bottom pan. Finely chop rest of the two onions and saute. Add chicken and allow to cook for few minutes. Add to it red chili powder, garam masala and little salt. Remember we have added little salt to the chicken earlier. Cover and continue to cook for next ten minutes on slow flame.

Add 4 cups of water and continue to cook the chicken. Cover and allow the chicken to cook for about 30 minutes. Keep checking in between and give it a stir. Then cover and continue cooking.

Once the onion has cooled down, peel and roughly chop the onion. Place it in a grinder and add roasted sesame seeds, cumin seeds, coconut, coriander leaves, garlic cloves and ginger. Add some water and grind this mixture to fine paste.

Add the ground paste to the chicken. Mix well. Check the salt and add little water if you wish to have more gravy. Cover and cook for few minutes till the chicken has cooked perfectly.

Once done, add coriander leaves for garnish and serve hot with roti and rice.

Homemade Flaxseed Mukhwas Recipe - Healthy After Meal Mouth Freshener

2017-11-04T20:08:00.000+05:30

Mukhwas is a wonderful post-dinner snack or a mouth freshener which is widely eaten after meals in India to aid digestion. This homemade mukhwas recipe contains flaxseeds along with the regular sesame seeds and fennel seeds. Flaxseeds (alsi) are rich source of Omega3 fatty acids and are considered as one of the wonder foods. It is said that consumption of just 1 or 2 tsp of flaxseeds is all one needs to gain several health benefits. Hence this is one way how to eat flaxseeds for health benefits. This Homemade Flaxseed Mukhwas Recipe is easy to make and requires only a couple of steps.

Ingredients for Homemade Flaxseed Mukhwas Recipe

Flaxseeds - 1 cup
Sesame Seeds (unpolished) - 1 cup
Fennel Seeds - 1 cup
Lemon Juice - 1 tbsp
Salt - 1/2 tsp
Sugar - 1/2 tsp

Method for Homemade Flaxseed Mukhwas Recipe

In a large bowl, combine flaxseeds, sesame seeds and fennel seeds. Add salt and lemon juice. Mix together. Set aside for an hour.

Dry roast the mixture in a heavy bottom pan for a couple of minutes on a slow flame. Do not burn the mixture or roast for a long time Alternatively you can also microwave this mixture on HIGH for around 30 seconds.

Once done, allow the mixture to cool slightly. Add the sugar and mix the mixture well. Allow the mixture to cool completely.

Once done store the mixture in an airtight container.

Poha Chivda Recipe - Easy Diwali Chivda Recipe

2017-10-17T11:56:00.001+05:30

Diwali is one of the festivals we look forward to! It brings with it happiness, joy and range of yummy Diwali faral, i.e Diwali Foods. The list is countless - Chakali, Besan Ladoo, Rawaa Ladoo, Shankarpali, Kanole or karanji, anaarse and Chivda. There is much more to this list, but these are few of the essential recipes of this festival. Posting the chivda recipe today. Diwali chivda recipe is made either from poha (beaten rice) or cornflakes.

The following recipe is made from poha (thick or jada) and is ready within minutes. It is an easy recipe which I happened to prepare yesterday afternoon. The poha chivda recipe mentioned below is so easy and quick, then you could cook it anytime you wish as an evening snack. The best part about this poha chivda recipe is it requires less oil as compared to other recipes. This chivda recipe belongs to my mom, Mrs. Smita Parab and trust me, it tastes crunchy and tasty. The preparation of this recipe and it's taste makes me quite nostalgic, reminding me of my childhood days back at my parent's place :)

Posting this recipe step by step for easy understanding.

Ingredients for Poha Chivda Recipe

Jada Poha (Beaten rice / flattened rice) - 1/2 kg, cleaned
Garlic - 12 flakes, peeled and crushed
Mustard Seeds - 1 tbsp
Cumin seeds - 1 tbsp
Hing (asafoetida) - 1 tsp
Green chilies - 5 to 6, chopped
Coriander leaves - 1/2 cup, finely chopped
Cashew nuts - 1/2 cup, roughly chopped or halved
Sesame seeds - 1 tbsp
Poppy seeds - 1 tbsp
Peanuts - 1/2 cup
Curry leaves - 20 to 25, washed and dried
Dry coconut - 1/2 cup, finely sliced
Bengal Gram dalia (roasted bengal gram)- 1/2 cup
Turmeric - 1 or 2 tsp
Salt, as per taste
Sugar - 1 or 2 tsp
Oil - 1/2 cup

Method for Poha Chivda Recipe

The first step for poha chivda recipe is to keep all the above mentioned ingredients except poha, salt, sugar and oil ready. This is important once you start making the chivda, as you need all the ingredients such as garlic, peanuts, poppy seeds, sesame seeds, dry coconut, dalia, curry leaves, chopped chilies, cashews etc. handy.

In a heavy bottom pan, dry roast the jada poha on a slow flame till it changes colour slightly. Keep stirring the poha in small intervals so that it doesn't burn. Once done remove it on a plate and set aside.

Take the same heavy bottom pan and heat oil on a slow flame. Add crushed garlic.

Add to this mustard seeds, cumin seeds, green chilies, hing and peanuts. Continue to cook until green chilies and garlic browns. Keep stirring and turning them over.

Add cashews, dalia, coriander leaves, coconut slices, turmeric, coriander leaves poppy seeds and sesame seeds. Continue to stir fry and keep turning them over. Do not leave it unattended or the ingredients could burn. Add a little salt and mix.

Now add the poha and continue to mix. Keep turning the ingredients over in the pan until everything is mixed well.

Once you have mixed well, cover and place the vessel on a tava. Allow the chivda to cook on a slow flame for at least five minutes.

Remove from heat and keep the vessel covered for the next five minutes. Remove the cover and stir the poha chivda. Add salt and sugar and mix well. Allow the poha chivda to cool down and then store it in an airtight container.

CKP Khajyache Kanole Recipe

2017-10-01T20:11:00.000+05:30

Khajyache kanole is one of the most important CKP delicacy prepared during Diwali. It is in fact considered as an art. Though Maharashtrians have various versions of kanole, which Maharashtrains also refer as karanji; yet CKP version of kanole is different and special. There is lot of labor and skill involved in this preparation as the shells of the CKP Khajyache Kanole are multi-layered and light. It takes around 6 to 8 hours to make kanole as each and every step is pretty tedious and time consuming. Not everyone can actually master this recipe, and very often even after careful preparation the recipe fails to show layers or is too coloured(left in ghee for a minute more). Kanole need to be really light and multi-layered. The layers and lightness of the kanola determines the skills of the maker, I mean that is how it is! People are more interested in checking out the layers and the color of the Kanola other than eating it out. The color of the fried kanola is also important, as it shouldn't be too fried and the white cover of the shell should remain white or little off-white but never brown. The following recipe belongs to my mother-in-law Mrs. Anjali Chaubal.

Ingredients for CKP Kanole Recipe

Ingredients for the dough or shell

Barik Rawa (fine semolina) - 3/4th cup
Milk + water - 1/2 cup,in equal proportion
Ghee - 4 to 6 tsps

Ingredients for Saaran

Ghee(solid cube, preferably refrigerated)
Cornflour

Ingredients for the Filling

Dry coconut powder - 1 cup
Sugar, as required according to your preference
Poppy seeds - 2 tsp
Whole wheat flour - 2 tbsp
Cardomom powder - 1/4th tsp
Nutmeg powder - 1/4th tsp
Ghee

Method for CKP Kanole Recipe

Method for the Filling

To prepare the filling, in a non-stick pan heat ghee on a slow flame. Add the whole wheat flour and saute until the flour turns light brown and releases pleasant aroma. The colour of the flour should be light brown and not dark brown. Remove it from the pan onto a plate and set aside.

In the same pan, dry roast the coconut powder until it is golden brown. Once done, set aside.

Saute the poppy seeds in the same pan until they are slightly coloured. Do not brown them. Set aside.

Once the poppy seeds and coconut have cool down, place them together in a mixer and dry grind them. Remove it in a mixing bowl.

Add to this the wheat flour, sugar, nutmeg powder, cardamom powder and mix well. Check the taste for sugar, it should be added preferably in equal quantity as the wheat flour or according to the preference. Once done store this filing in a air-tight container to use later.

Method for the Dough

In a large bowl, mix barik rawa with the milk and water mixture to make a dough. Moisten a cloth and cover the dough for at least 2 to 3 hours.

Remove the cloth and apply a generous amount of ghee and rub it allover the dough. With the help of a pestle start pounding the dough until the dough gets too soft and flexible. You can add little ghee if the dough starts tearing when you pound it. Just rub the ghee on the dough and roll it into a ball and start pounding again until it is flat, soft and flexible. The process is bit tedious and takes at least half an hour to get the best results.

Once done roll the pounded dough into a ball and cover it with a moist cloth. Set aside until you prepare the saran.

Method for the Saran

Take a large plate and place the solid ghee cube on the center. With the help of your fingers start applying pressure on the ghee and spread or stretch it on the plate from one side to other. Continue doing so until it attains a grainy texture and feels smooth and light. As the ghee incorporates air within, it gets lighter and starts changing it's texture. Once it really softens, start adding little cornflour and continue to mix. Add cornflour with small spoon and keep mixing with finger tips in the ghee. The consistency of this saran mixture should be creamy. Once done set aside and keep it covered with a moist cloth.

Method for Kanole

Remove the moist cloth from the dough and roll it slightly into a medium roll(a hot dog). Divide it into 4 equal parts.

Take one part and and make small parts of it. Put it in a mixture along with 1 tsp ghee and the colour of your choice (edible colours such as green or you could use saffron). Run the mixer until the dough gets the desired colour. Once done, remove the dough and place it under the moist cloth. Repeat the same with the other parts of dough. Keep one part uncolored.

Take one part and roll it into a chapati. Press your finger-tips on the dough and make small and light depressions on the dough. Take care that you do not make holes in the capati. Do it carefully. Spread the saran on the role, taking care to fill all the dents and depressions made on the dough. Place the chapati aside.

Take other part and roll it too into a chapati. Repeat the process of making depressions and applying saran. Place this chapati on the first. Don't press one chapatti on other too hard. Repeat the similar process with the rest of the parts and place each chapati on each other with the saran applied side facing above.

Now start rolling the chapati layer from one side and finish it into a tight roll. Ensure that no bubbles have formed within the roll. Dust your hands with little cornflour or rice flour as this helps efficient maneuvering and the dough doesn't stick on either your hands or the base. Once you have rolled the dough into tight roll, start pulling the roll and lengthen it. The roll should be stretched slowly in one direction only and should form a roll twice the actual size. Cut the long roll vertically into two rolls. Now cut each roll horizontally into small portions. Set them aside and cover them with moist cloth.

Place one portion on a flat surface and start rolling it to form a circle. Make use of little rice flour if the dough is bit sticky. You should roll it only from center to the edges, and not the way you roll chapati(back and forward). Place a little filling on one side of the roll. Place your palm edge to ensure that the filling is placed exactly on one half of the dough. Before closing one edge on the other, moisten the edge with the water-milk mixture. Slightly fold the edge to form a kanole. Press the edges firmly and with the help or a pastry cutter or a shankarpali cutter cut out the extra edges. Place the prepared kanole in a plate and cover with moist cloth. Continue the same with the rest of the dough.

Heat ghee in a deep and heavy bottom pan. Make sure that you heat it on a slow flame. Place the kanole and fry them gently. Do not add many kanole and over-crowd the pan. It is preferable to fry one or two kanole at a time. The flame should be slow and the kanole should not be overturned immediately. The heat temperature of ghee needs to be maintained throughout the frying process. See that you do not change the colour of the kanole. Remove it from the heat and place on absorbent paper.

Tip

1. Whenever you are working with one dough, ensure that all the rest of the dough should be covered with a moist cloth. The dough should be removed from the moist cloth only when it is required to work on and then should be placed back gently inside the moist cloth. Otherwise the dough would dry out and would not provide efficient results.

2. Do not add many kanole and over-crowd the pan

3. While frying the oil temperature needs to be maintained or the kanole would not be cooked properly and also the crust colour would change.

4. The filling required for the kanole preparation can be prepared one or two days in advance and stored in a air-tight container.

5. If you plan to make coloured kanole, use saffron for one dough and green edible colour for the other dough.

6. In the above recipe, we have made four parts of the dough, but you can make as many parts you like and thus increase the layers of chapati to be topped on each other.

Easy Shankarpali Recipe

2017-09-23T09:23:00.001+05:30

Shankarpali is one of the favorite sweets prepared by Maharashtrians during Diwali. It is also known as Shakkarpara and is made either sweet or savoury. Shankarpali are diamond shaped preparations that taste crunchy and delicious. During Diwali the sweet version of Shankarpali is usually preferred. This shankarpali recipe is so easy that you can also make it whenever your child feels like enjoying it even on other festive occasions. The shankarpalis made with this mentioned recipe are crispy and delicious, try it out. The recipe is provided step by step with pictures for easy understanding.

Ingredients for Shankarpali Recipe

Maida (refined flour) - 1 cup
Rawa (semolina) - 1/2 cup
Milk - 1 cup
Sugar - 3/4th cup
Ghee (clarified butter) - 1/2 cup
Oil, for frying

Method for Easy Shankarpali Recipe

Step - 1

In a pan, mix milk with sugar and ghee. Mix well and bring it to boil on a slow flame. Keep stirring all the time. Once boiled, remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool.

Step - 2

Mix the maida and rawa together. Once the millk mixture cools, start adding spoonful of maida slowly into it and mix. Continue the procedure until you knead it into a dough. The dough should not be very soft. Cover the dough with a moist cloth for 30 minutes.

Step - 3

Remove the cloth and knead the dough for a minute. Divide the dough into equal large balls. Roll each portion of the dough into a thick chapati. With the help of a pastry cutter or shankarpali cutter or ravioli cutter cut rectangular shaped shankarpali and spread them on a paper. Repeat the same procedure with all the dough and spread out each cut squares on the paper slightly separate from each other, so they don't stick to each other.

Step - 4

Heat oil in a kadai and start frying small batches of shankarpali on a medium flame. Once golden in colour remove them from oil and place them on absorbent paper.

Step - 5

Repeat the same process with rest of the shankarpali. Allow the fried shankarpali to cool. Once done store them in an airtight container. Your crispy and delicious shankarpali are ready in no time.

How to Identify Fake Eggs

2017-08-16T14:15:00.001+05:30

Fake eggs been locally available in the market is indeed a matter of alarm. It makes us take a double take on the eggs available at the grocer, as we do not wish to be fooled into buying fake eggs. They look same and are of same shape as we are told. But consuming fake eggs can be life threatening, as it can cause death in children and also can pose serious health threat to people of any age group. Fake eggs are said to be made in China and are exported in large quantities to countries like India, Bangladesh and Thailand. Fake eggs contain food colour and many other chemicals such as sodium alginate, alum, gelatin, calcium chloride, paraffin wax, gypsum powder and water. The outer shell of egg is made of Calcium Carbonate. It is due to this chemical combination present in these eggs that they are termed to be chemical eggs. But these fake eggs resemble chicken eggs and hence one can easily be fooled to buy it. And also because of the presence of these harmful chemicals such as Calcium Alginate, that fake eggs are not to be eaten as they can be harmful to our body. Most don't even realize they bought fake eggs and consume them regularly. But few people have been complaining about the eggs they bought tasted like plastic after cooking. Consumption of fake eggs could trigger severe health problems which may include nerve cell damage, brain damage, liver damage and metabolism disorders.

How to Identify Fake Eggs

Though people are been fooled into buying fake eggs, yet there are few ways to differentiate and identify fake eggs. Always buy eggs from trusted grocer, from whom you buy eggs often. Never buy eggs from unknown sources. While buying eggs, one can be careful and alert. Few ways to identify fake eggs are mentioned below -

1. The outer shell of fake eggs are pretty much shinier as compared to original eggs.

2. The shape of a fake egg is something to be noted for. A regular egg is never round, a bit elliptical but a fake egg is rather round and big in shape.

3. If you hold the fake egg in you hand and shake it, you would rather hear sloshing noise inside, as if flow of water.

4. Once you have eggs in your kitchen, understand that a real egg is tougher to crack and the sound of breaking is crisp rather than fake eggs. The fake eggs break easily as compared to real eggs. Though spoiled eggs do crack easily, but still such an egg spoiled or fake should be thrown immediately.

5. If an egg is fake, once you break it you would find a yellow and white liquid mixed as if the egg is spoiled unlike a real egg where you would find egg white and egg yolk separate yet intact. Also in fake eggs, even after breaking you find egg white and egg yolk separate, within a matter of seconds, both would mix together on their own which never happens in real eggs.

6. Real eggs smell like raw meat and of you have little yellow on your hand than the eggy smell would stay for some time. But with fake eggs that part is really missing as you just cannot smell them.

7. When you half fry a fake egg, the yolk spreads on the egg white without being touched which never happens with real eggs.

8. The inner membrane of an real egg is thin and slimy, whereas the inner membrane of fake egg is dry and feels like a paper.

9. When you put the outer shell of a fake egg on fire, the shell burns quickly similar to that of a plastic. However if you try the same with real egg shell, the shell takes time to burn.

10. Last but not least, when real eggs are left open on the kitchen counter, flies are attracte to them. The same can't be said about fake eggs.

Health Benefits of Cinnamon

2017-07-26T18:01:00.000+05:30

One of the best known spices, Cinnamon is popular for its aroma and distinct taste. It is widely used in all types of cuisines to enhance the flavour of the food, be it a meat dish or a pie, a main course or a dessert. But apart from the distinguished taste it imparts to food, the cinnamon bark is also known for it's medicinal value. The health benefits of cinnamon are such that it has been traditionally used as a medicinal spice throughout the world since 2000 BC. In Ancient Eygpt, cinnamon was used for consumption because it was cited that cinnamon had strong magical powers. Lets discuss the health benefits of cinnamon.

Ten Health Benefits of Cinnamon

1. Anyone of the two constituents namely Cinnamaldehyde and Eugenol are present in various forms of cinnamon, which are known to fight cancer cells of Leukemia (blood cancer) and Lymphoma (cancer of immune cells or lymphocytes).

2. Cinnamon is known to have anti-fungal properties. To clean a body part affected with fungal infection, one should mix cinnamon oil with water and clean the affected area for three days with this mixture.

3. Cinnamon acts as a weight reducer and helps in blood thinning. It also helps promote blood circulation. Cinnamon and honey combination is perfect for weight loss. This combination can be used in tea or can be consumed directly for weight loss.

4. Known for its anti-bacterial properties, cinnamon is the best remedy for stomachaches and stomach flu.

5. Regular intake of cinnamon in tea or other foods can be beneficial for those with Type 2 Diabetes, as it helps control their blood sugar variations and also helps those with insulin resistance.

6. Regular intake of cinnamon helps reduce arthritis pain. A regular massage with cinnamon oil also works wonders for arthritis patients.

7. Being a rich source of manganese and iron, cinnamon can be used in the skin treatments. Many skin related problems such as dandruff or acne can be cured with cinnamon. A cinnamon and honey mixture if applied on acne for a couple of days, helps treat the acne problem.

8. A rich source of calcium, regular intake of cinnamon can help fight osteoporosis.

9. Cinnamon tea also helps fight sore throat. Honey and cinnamon tea, if consumed regularly, can help fight cold symptoms and keep throat infections at bay. Many home remedies include key ingredients as Cinnamon and honey for sore throat and cough.

10. Cinnamon is known to lower LDL, i.e. the bad cholesterol. People with hereditary heart disease and cholesterol problems should include cinnamon in their daily diet without fail.

Apart from these top ten health benefits, cinnamon is also known to help treat patients with symptoms of neurological disorders such as Alzheimer and Parkinson. And hence cinnamon is considered to be one of the super foods.

Health Benefits of Spiny Gourd or Kantola

2017-07-13T18:53:00.000+05:30

As soon as monsoon sets in, we look forward to enjoy spiny gourd, locally known as teasle gourd, Kantola, kantoli or kakrol. Spiny gourd is often considered to be bitter because, for many, it resembles a bitter gourd. But that is not true at all! Spiny gourd has spines all over the body and are comparatively smaller in shape, resembling big, green lemons with spines. In mountain regions of Maharashtra, Spiny gourd is one of the healthy vegetables, that grow wildly on creepers all throughout the mountain areas or shrubby areas during monsoon. They are made available to us in the markets by the local tribes. Though many farmers are known to cultivate this vegetable nowadays for its health benefits and popular demand. Once spiny gourd seeds are sown in the field, the vines of the vegetable sprout at the onset of monsoon every year. Spiny gourd can be prepared in very little oil and tastes lovely. Few scrape the spiny gourd off its spines before cooking while few cook them just the way they are. It cooks quickly and can be prepared into a simple sabji with onions and green chilies. Apart from the taste, spiny gourd are also beneficial for health.

Health Benefits of Spiny Gourd

1. Being a rich source of Vitamin C, spiny gourd can help fight cancer.

2. Spiny gourd has large proportions of falvonoids including lutein, beta-carotene, alpha-carotene and zeaxanthin. These flavonoids work as anti-ageing components and help us look younger.

3. Spiny gourd are rich in Vitamin A, which is necessary for good eye sight.

4. The tender vines of spiny gourd if boiled for a couple of minutes and then the water strained and mixed with honey to prepare a mixture, which when drank can help fight viral fever.

5. To reduce sweating and to beat body odour, powdered spiny gourd can be added to warm water before bath. It also ensures smooth skin.

6. Adding a tablespoon of powdered spiny gourd to glass of water and drinking regularly can help remove kidney stones.

7. Spiny gourd contains large amount of fibre and regularly including this vegetable in our daily diet helps fight constipation.

How to Preserve Fruits

2017-07-08T11:37:00.000+05:30

Every new season brings with it array of happiness, beauty and hope. As if this is not enough, it also brings with it beautiful, colorful and tasty fruits which last only till the season does. These fruits are categorized as seasonal fruits only because they are available for a specific period of time every year. So it is important that we try and enjoy each of these fruits as much as possible. But we do long for some of these fruits for the rest of the year and wait and wonder when are these fruits going to be back.

Each fruit seasonal or perennial are power-packed with its own set of nutrients including iron, antioxidants, fibre and loads of Vitamin A which is needed for our body. And not just that, but the way they taste - for examples mangoes. Mangoes are truly devoured in it's season and then missed later throughout the year. Same is the case with few other fruits like grapes and strawberries! And then all we do to enjoy it even the season is over is by buying fruit concentrates, canned fruit pulp or juices.

But what if we could store these fruits right at home, even after their season is over? Wouldn't that be a great idea! Instead of buying these fruits that we enjoy eating so much in other forms which are charged exorbitantly and do not taste just the same; we can actually preserve these seasonal fruits in our own refrigerator and use it whenever we wish to. Let us learn some fruit preservation recipes which can allow us to enjoy our favorite fruits even when they no longer exist in the market.

Fruit Preservation Recipes

1. Fruit Pulp

The best way to store foods in the freezer is by making fruit pulp and storing it. Making fruit pulp out of a fruit is one of the best fruit preservation recipes that one could find. Just a little amount of hard work and you get to enjoy your favourite fruit whenever you wish. It also answers that one simple question we usually have in mind which is how to preserve fruit longer? Once the fruit is carefully pulped and placed in the freezer, then the fruit pulp can stay fresh for months together. The best way to enjoy the frozen fruit pulp would be by incorporating it with easy fuit pulp recipes such as smoothies, juices or even using them in ice-creams and other desserts.

Learn more about How to Preserve Mangoes

Suggestions on some Fruit Pulp Recipes

1. Fruit Flavoured Yogurts - Use fruit pulp in yogurts to make yummy fruit flavoured yogurts. To tell you the truth, the fruit flavoured yogurts made at home taste way better than the one available in markets. For making fruit flavoured yogurt, all you need to do is thaw the required amount of fruit pulp and mix it in the yogurt. Make sure the yogurt is fresh and not very sour. Once you add the fruit pulp, there is no need of adding any sugar or sweeteners. The best fruits that you have stored as fruit pulps which can be used in yogurt include mango, strawberry and grapes.

2. Toppings - Fruit pulp can be used as a topping for pancakes, waffles, crepes and even ice-creams. All you have to do is prepare the pancakes or waffles or crepes as per the recipe. Thaw required amount of fruit pulp. Place freshly prepared pancakes, crepes or waffles on a serving plate and top it with your favourite fruit pulp.

3. Smoothies - The best way to enjoy fruit pulp is by incorporating it with various other ingredients such as spinach, lemongrass or any other fruit and to make excellent smoothies. In this case, you need not thaw the fruit pulp and use it as it is. Just mix the frozen fruit pulp with rest of the ingredients, the smoothie recipe calls for and there you go!

4. Milkshakes - Fruit pulp can be blended with milk, and some ice to make tasty milkshakes. You need not add sugar in this milkshakes. All you need to do is take some cold milk in a blender, and add some scoops of the thawed fruit pulp and some ice cubes.

5. Excellent Base for Desserts - Fruit pulp prepared at home could be used as a base to make excellent desserts such as mousses and ice-creams. Fruit pulp could also be used in preparing fillings for pies or even for cheesecakes such as mango cheesecake. Just thaw the required amount of fruit pulp and use as per the instructions of the recipe you wish to prepare.

6. Fresh Fruit Juice - With the help of the fruit pulp you prepared at home, you can makes excellent fruit juices. Just thaw the required amount of fruit pulp and blend it with a couple of mint leaves. If you wish you can just drop in the mint leaves right in the glass along with the fruit pulp. Now add some lemon juice and top up the glass with chilled filtered water or soda.

7. Sorbet - Fruits pulps can be used to make tasty sorbets. For making a sorbet, just add the thawed fruit pulp in a glass. Sprinkle some rock salt over it and some lemon juice.

8. Whip it with Cream - You can use fruit pulps to give that extra fruity layer for cakes. All you need to do is thaw the required amount of fruit pulp and whip it up with fresh cream. Now just use it up to layer cakes or pastries.

9. Fruit Tea - Fruit teas are the best thing one can enjoy! With fruit pulp of guava, grapes or strawberry one can make excellent fruit tea at home. Fruit teas are easy to make and taste delightful. Here's how you should make a fruit tea with fruit pulp you prepared at home. Learn how to make an Easy Fruit Tea Recipe

10. Fruit Slushies: Add 1 cup of fruit pulp in a blender along with 1 cup of ice or you could use fruit ice, 1/4th cup of sparkling water and 1 tbsp mint leaves. Blend till the ice is crushed completely. Serve the fruit slushies right away. You can replace mint leaves with basil, lemon juice, honey or ginger for variation.

11. Fruit Popsicles - Fruit pulp could be used for making excellent fruit pops or fruit popsicles. For doing so, bring the required amount of fruit pulp to room temperature and use it in fruit Popsicle recipe. Learn how to make an Easy Strawberry Popsicle Recipe

2. Fruit Ice

Fruit Ice come real handy while making sorbets and smoothies. They can also be used as toppings for fruit juices. Instead of adding plain ice to your juice, add a couple of fruit ice of your choice to your juice and enjoy the taste. You can always experiment by adding different fruit ices for a twist of flavour.

3. Preserving Whole Fruit

Some fruit such as strawberries or grapes can even be preserved whole. This way you can just take them out of the freezer and eat away as a snack or even add in blenders to make smoothies. To do so, you will have to pack them away in large airtight containers. One benefit out of preserving whole fruit is that no sugar is needed to preserve them, as the natural sugar content within the fruit acts as the preservative for them. So does it's acid level! These two components the natural sugar content and the acid level within the fruit act as their preservatives and helps us to preserve them.