Welcome to Raaji's Kitchen

MURUKKU

noreply@blogger.com (raaji) — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 22:45:00 +0000

INGREDIENTS:

Rice Flour--------------1.5 Cups

Besan/Gram Flour-----1/2 Cups(Both in 1:3 ratio)

Ajwain seeds-----------1/4 tsp crushed

Red Chilli Powder------1/2 tsp

Salt--------------------to taste

Oil---------------------1 tbp + for deep frying

DIRECTION:

1.Ina bowl combine both the flour, Salt, Red chilli powder, Crushed Ajwain and mix well.

2.Add 1 tbsp of slightly heated Oil to the above flour mixture and make a crumble mixture.

3.Now add enough water and knead into a soft dough. Heat Oil in a frying pan.

4.Place the dough in presser with medium sized round holes disc fixed to it and when Oil is ready slightly press the presser to release the dough into the oil.

5.Fry them till nice light brown in batches on medium flame and place them on tissues to absorb oil.

Sending Vankaya Poornam, Dosakaya Pappu, Bagara Rice, Sorakaya Pulusu to State Special event

ANNOUNCING ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL CAKE EVENT

noreply@blogger.com (raaji) — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 22:07:00 +0000

I am having some problem editing my posts. Recently i tried to update few already published posts(just happened to change the style ,add a new pic to those old post) .To be more specific the posts are: Fruit Custard, Veg Noodles. After editing I re-published them. When i happened to open my blog I could see new comments on these posts waiting for my approval. When i just looked around, all I could see is that the previous c

omments on those posts have been deleted and it automatically updates all your blogroll list with link to these posts rather than my most recent post. his is quite annoying.

Coming to the point, I decided to host an event for a change. This would be my first one. Hope to get it right . The Theme would be : "Anniversary Special--Cake" . This might sound quite funny but the reason to come up with such an event would be my own personal experience. As a daughter, I have never paid much attention to what my mom cooks on their Wedding day or their B'day(Mom's and Dad's). But I was so particular about the menu for my B'day(not even for my Bro's .Anway he has his own priorities). Post-Marriage everything changes. It's no longer about just "You"...It changes to "Us". Your opinion/outlook / liking / priorities everything changes. The change which your parents were asking for always remained a dream to them and I used to be so proud for being just myself. But now, I don't even notice what I have left behind along with my parents...Well, now I become over-ambitious ,When it comes to celebrating special occasions like our Marriage Anniversary or my Hubby's Birthday(forget about mine). I prepare a menu, make a list of the ingredients that goes into it ,go shopping ,cook them for the special day.... I like giving surprises for my hubby !! Everything sounds nice until ,I started realising that ,I always ended up Cooking the same everytime(except for few recipes...). Whats the fun in giving them a surprise, when they already knew whats going to be on the table?...So this is where I landed..Hosting up an event for the So special Ocassion. Lets start this event with something sweet ,moist and perfect "CAKE"for getting started....So lets get busy!!!!

Here are the things you need to know :

Theme: Cakes.

Ingredients: No limit.Can contain egg/butter/flax seeds /nuts....

Flavor: Anything...Chocolate/Vanila/caramel whatever...be innovative. Cann have any number of flavors.

Cooking method: Must be baked in a Conventional Oven/can use Old sand stove-top methods.No microwave cooking.

Complexity: The simple the better. Can use any kind of frosting.

Number of Entries: No limit. Both have to be of different flavor.

Deadline: 30th SEPTEMBER '09.

Have something in mind....Then what are you waiting for.....Just shoot me an email.Here what you have to do.

1.Make a Cake,Make a note of the ingredients proportion,Take a picture,Publish it on your blog between 21August '09 and 30thSep'09.

2. Mail me with the following details to raajis[dot]kitchen[at]gmail[dot]com with Subject as: "Anniversary Special--Cake Event".

Your Name,Your Blog Name,Your Recipe, Your Recipe URL,Picture of the recipe.

3.Non bloggers too can participate.

4.Archived posts are accepted too...Make sure to link back to this event with logo in your upcoming posts(between 21Aug and 30Sep).

5.Sit back and wait for the round-up......

Waiting for the entries.....

BROCCOLI PATOLI

noreply@blogger.com (raaji) — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 22:02:00 +0000

INGREDIENTS:

Small Cut Broccoli Florets---------1 cup steamed for 5 mins

Yellow Moong dal------------------1/3 cup soaked for 30 mins

Channa dal-------------------------3 tbp soaked for 15 mins and ground coarsely

Onion-------------------------------1 medium one chopped

Green chillies----------------------4

Garlic pods-------------------------3 chopped

Cumin seeds-----------------------1 tsp

Turmeric---------------------------1/2 tsp

Oil----------------------------------4 tbp

DIRECTIONS:

1.Heat oil in a skillet and add cumin seeds, chopped garlic.When done add onions, turmeric ,green chillies and saute till nice and done.

2.Now add the steamed broccoli and cook uncovered for 4 mins on medium heat.Then add soaked moong dal,salt.

3.Mix and let it cook covered for another 5-7mins on medium heat.Donot add any water.See that the broccoli and dal are thoroughly cooked.

4.Now add the ground channa dal and cook for another 3 mins.turn off.Serve hot.

GOBI MASALA

noreply@blogger.com (raaji) — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 20:52:00 +0000

Both of us are not such a good eaters when it comes to Cauliflower.I tried making cauliflower curry many times ,using different proportions of ingredients,but everytime it ended up tasting the same. Some months ago, I followed someones blog for this recipe. I made a note of the ingredients ,but not the blog. However am very thankful to that blogger for including this flower in our meal.Very tasty curry that makes the gobi-haters want for more. Very good especially with Rotis.

INGREDIENTS:

Cauliflower Florets-------------2 cup boiled for 4 mins in boiling water

Onion---------------------------1 big one

Tomato-------------------------1 big one

Red chilli Powder--------------1 tsp

Coriander Powder-------------1 tsp

Turmeric-----------------------1/2 tsp

Yogurt--------------------------2 tsp

Oil,Salt--------------------------as required

Roast and Grind to Powder:

Cashews,Poppy seeds---------1 tsp

Grind to a coarse paste:

Green chillies------------------3

Ginger--------------------------1 " piece

Garlic---------------------------3 pods

DIRECTIONS:

1.Heat oil in apan and add the chopped onions and saute till light brown.

2.Add the ground coarse paste and saute them for a min. Now add chopped tomatoes and let it cook covered on medium heat for 4-5 mins.

3.Now add redchilli powder,coriander powder,turmeric,salt and cook till the tomatoes are soft.

4.Turn the flame to low and add yogurt.Mix well.Add salt,boiled cauliflower florets and saute them unil the florets are coated with masala.Cook covered for 2 mins.

5.Add the ground powder,1/2 cup of water.Cook for 5-7 mins or until gravy thickems and cauliflower absorbs all the flavor.

6.Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and serve hot.

Sending this to "Side Dish for chapathi" event hosted by Viki.

ZEBRA CAKE

noreply@blogger.com (raaji) — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 21:03:00 +0000

This is one beautiful cake that I baked a long time ago ,that has both vanila and chocolate flavors Guessed mine would be as beautiful as Farida's but it managed . Beautiful in the sense, its more appealing to the eyes than any other cake(for me). It doesn't mean it isnt tasty. A first look at the cake makes one think ,that its quite tough to get those stripey/curvy patterns (known from the zebra stripes), but believe me its all in the consistency.

INGREDIENTS:

All Purpose Flour---------------2 standard cups

Granulated Sugar---------------1 standard cup

Unsalted Butter----------------1/2 of standard cup

Eggs----------------------------4 at room tempurature

Milk----------------------------1-1/4 standard cup

Cocoa Powder------------------2 tbp

Cinnamon Powder-------------1/2 tsp

Baking Powder----------------1 tbp

Vanila Extract-----------------1 tbp

DIRECTIONS:

1.In a large mixing bowl, combine eggs,sugar and whisk using hand wire or electric-mixer until light and creamy. To this add milk,butter,vanila and blend in nicely.

2.Ina seperate bowl combine flour, cinnamon powder, baking powder well. Now slowly add-in the flour and gently fold till all the flour is well incorporated.The mixture will be thick.

3.Divide this mixture into two equal portions.Keep one portion plain and add cocoa powder to the other portion.

4.Grease the baking pan(choose a round one) and place a laddle-ful(capacity of 2-3tbp ) of plain batter into the middle of the baking pan.Let it spread by-itself. Then place a laddle-ful of cocao batter onto the top of the plain batter.The chocolate batter will push the vanila batter towards the edges slowly. Preheat oven to 350F.

5.Continue pouring the two batters alternatively until all the batter has been used-up.Donot try to spread the batter or tilt the pan.As you keep placing the next ladleful of batter it keeps spreading on all by-itself.

6.Place the pan in the oven and bake for 40-50 mins. When ready check using a toothpick or fork. Turn over and Let it cool down before making slices.

Sending this to Think Spice:Spiced Sweet Treats.

ORANGE DELIGHT

noreply@blogger.com (raaji) — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 01:24:00 +0000

Few weeks back on one of my regular doctor visit, I simply stumbled upon one of their monthly subscription(don't exactly rem) which has simple columns on diet,baby-stuff, food for moms-to-be, parenting tips,...I was kind of picturing my boy from their fancy ad-pages ...and then slowly my eyes settled on one of those pages...excited enough to lookup for the ingredients. It seemed almost like I have seen this before somewhere other than this magazine ...but where???? Came home Image googled it with name "Orange Dessert" .As a match to my search,I could find sorbet recipe with the same serving style and then this. I clicked on the image...It leaded me to a very colorful blog Mishmash. The recipes ,her style, her attitude really thrilled me...she had a very good blog that i somehow missed all these days... I somehow managed to create a twin of her delight with slight changes...but I guess hers would have been heavenly..Thanks to her.! And thats it...It ended up in my blog with the same cool idea of serving the goodness of orange in halved and scooped-out orange cups. It has akind of creamy texture to it ,with the tangy flavor from oranges making it quite enjoyable esp in this hot season.

INGREDIENTS:

Fresh Orange Juice---------------1 cup(I squeezed from 3 navel oranges)

Whip cream-----------------------1/2 cup or can add more.

Sweetened condensed milk------3-4 tbp or more

Unflavored Gelatin---------------1 tbsp melted in the above orange juice

Any chopped fruit bits------------3 tbp

DIRECTIONS:

1.Whip the cream until it doubles in volume and has nice creamy texture.

2.Add sweetened condensed milk, orange juice ,chopped fruit bits and mix well gently.

3.Adjust the condensed milk if you feel its less sweet. Chill for 5-6 hrs and then serve as desired, either in orange cups or dessert bowls.

AWARDS AND A TAG

noreply@blogger.com (raaji) — Tue, 04 Aug 2009 22:45:00 +0000

Hi All,

Its award and tag time for me..

Hari Chandana has tagged and showered me with these awards.

Thank you Chandana....

Rules :

You must thank the person who has given you the award.
Copy the logo and place it on your blog.
Link to the person who has nominated you for the award.
Name 7 things about yourself that people might find interesting.
Nominate 7 other Kreativ Bloggers.
Post links to the 7 blogs you nominate.
Leave a comment on which of the blogs to let them know they have been nominated.

Coming to the TAG...it ofcourse is fun answering all the 31 questions.

1. What is your current obsession?

Eating Spicy Food cooked by anyone else except me. Haa i dont feel confident cooking anymore..hahaha

2. What are you wearing today?

Night Suit

3. What’s for dinner?

Black-eyed Peas Sundal, Yoplait,2 Chapatis with Moong Dal Curry

4. What’s the last thing you bought?

Chickoo Ice-Cream and few maternity clothes last week.

5. What are you listening to right now?

Nothing. Its quite here

6. What do you think about the person who tagged you?

We both have names with the same meaning

7. If you could have a house totally paid for, fully furnished anywhere in the world, where would you like it to be?

In a quite Suburb away from the main Hyderabad city.

8. What are your must-have's for summer?

Centralised AC, few cotton attires, Umbrella/Hat

9. If you could go anywhere in the world for the next hour, where would you go?

To India.

10. Which language do you want to learn?

Nothing.

11. What’s your favourite dish?

Biryani, Mudda Pappu with Mango Pickle, Fish Curry....

12. Who do you want to meet right now?

My mom, grandma,...and if possible my baby boy.

13. What is your favourite colour?

Black, Pink

14. What is your favourite piece of clothing in your own closet?

My blue/pink churidar

15. What is your dream job?

To become Microstrategy Administrator.

16. What’s your favourite magazine?

None..

17. If you had $100 now, what would you spend it on?

Few baby Items maybe...

18. What do you consider a fashion faux pas?

Trendy and Confidence.

19. Who are your style icons?

None.

20. Describe your personal style.?

Simple and elegant.

21. What are you going to do after this?

Go over for a short-walk.

22. What are your favourite movies?

Many to name...

24. What are three cosmetic/makeup/perfume products that you can't live without?

Am not so fond of particular brand products.

23. What inspires you?

Good Music

24. Give us three styling tips that always work for you:

Good matching Earrings/Footwear, Kajal and Lipgloss...your all set to go with any outfit.

25. What do you do when you “have nothing to wear” (even though your closet’s packed)?

Go for sth that I havnt worn in the recent months....Atleast that way you can feel you have sth new to wear.

26. Coffee or tea?

None. Just Milk.

27. What do you do when you are feeling low or terribly depressed?

Just lie down.

28. What is the meaning of your name?

Moon light.

29. Which other blogs you love visiting?

I Love visiting all the blogs but coulnt find time.

30. Favorite Dessert/Sweet?

Bakshalu/Puran poli, Rasmalai.

31. Favorite Season ?

Rainy

The rules are:

Respond and rework – answer the questions on your own blog, replace one question that you dislike with a question of your own invention, and add one more question of your own. Then tag eight or ten other people.

I would like to share this awards and tag with..

MY 200th POST & MY 20th WEEK

noreply@blogger.com (raaji) — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 17:12:00 +0000

Hi All.......

This would be my 200th post and for those who havnt caught up with the news ,I'am 20 weeks pregnant. It's a BOY!!!......

Am loving this whole pregnancy thing.....Getting as much sleep/food as you want, getting all kind of attention from my dear hubby/parents, with the baby moving inside once in a couple of hours, feeling happy looking over and over at the ultrasound pictures, haaa all that is a real fun one shouldnt miss.

First of all, It was a planned one. I found out that I was pregnant on April 18th '09 with a home-pregnancy kit. This just happened two days before my 25th B'day ie: April 20th. I was just 6 weeks then. Not knowing this,Just a couple of weeks earlier I invited over few common friends(around 12) to my place for my B'day(it was on 19th evening). Me and my hubby were so excited about this pregnancy thing and planned to tell our parents on my B'day. The evening went well with all the ladies chit-chatting inside and men BBq'ing in the patio. I couldn't stop thinking over to tell my parents while i was with them. I didn't want them to know about this before our parents knew. Later had our dinner..The menu was: My BBQ chicken, Grilled CornCob, Haldirams snack pack, My Bagara rice, My Palakura pappu,My Kadhai Bhindi, Hubby's Awesome Chicken curry, Hubby's Mutton Curry, My Pappu Charu, Hubby's Raita, My Fruit Salad . A few hours later,around 12' O clock i cut a cake. They all left after half-an-hour and I was eagerly waiting for my parents call .We couldn't sleep till 2 in the morning.I thought maybe they would call and wish me in the morning. But they didn't. It was sooo frustrating.We both went to the temple and had dinner along another couple at PFchang. Again I was waiting for their call....i couldnt sleep....unable to withhold my emotions, i made a call at around 10.30PM . It was my brother this time. It was 11.00Am in India.

Bro:Hello!! Haa Akka tell me...How r u?? Happy B'day akka!!!

Me:Thank you!! Hey how stupid you guys dont even care to call me even though u remember it was my B'day...Wheres maa and daddy???Give them the phone.

Bro:Maa and daddy both are sleeping. I will ask them to give a call in the morning. Ok.

Me: What???Sleeping at this time of the day??? Comeon no prb if they are sleeping...Wake them up...

After few seconds.....

Bro: Maa said she will talk to you later...she's in deep sleep.And daddy too.

I didnt believe what he was saying...I felt sth was going on....i could hear my maa talking to dad.

Me: No problem...comeon dont try to fool me ...i know she is fine...i could hear her and dad over the phone..

Bro: Maa.....Akka on the line.

Maa: Haa Raju...How are u??Its 11.00 am here, Isn't it too late for u there....

Me:What maa..why is that nobody cared to wish me on my B'day??? not even dad..

Maa: Haa hello raju...Hello.....what did u say???Hello....i cant hear u nana....i will call you in the evening...ok.

I didn't find any disturbance over the line...she sounded soo gloomy to me...not much of an excitement in her tone that always accompanies her..still i was waiting for their blessings...

Me:(witha curious tone) Maa...I could hear u properly...Whats the matter....You all dont sound soo good...Is everything fine ..comeon tell me...

Maa: (Witha harsh tone)haa...what?? what r u talking about??nothing of that kind...everyones fine...haa sorry raa...happy b'day.

Her words made me think...whats going on???I couldnt say anything else except for hanging up without sharing the wonderful news with them..We both were quite worried thinking of what might have happened. Two days passed. There were no calls from both the sides. At last I called my mom thinking everythig might have been ok. But there was no to answer. I was even more worried. After two days my mom called me.

Me: Hello maa..where have u guys been???i tried to call you several times. Arn't you at home??

Maa: Haa raju...we wen to your grandpa's(mom's dad) village for 2 days. Everybody(my uncles/aunts) gathered there aftera very long time. just for a change.

Me: Why was that all of a sudden??? You've been there last month too right...

Maa: haa but this time everone was coming over...so thought this would be good. thats it. So hows everything?? how's R??

Me: He's fine...listening to our conversaation right now...He says he wants to talk to dad...Is dad there...

Maa:Haa..wait..

R:Hello mamayya..hows everthing going...

Dad:Hello R......(they cover everything from politics,current market trends, housing market to movies)At last he cracks the goodnews to my dad...Both of us talked to mom and dad for around 20-25 mins. They were happy about this...immediately R calls our in-laws to share the same news....They were even more excited about this...Finally I was totally relieved of this burden.

But exactly after 2 weeks i came to know that my Uncle's(moms elder bro) Younger daughter kiran had passed away on 19th. She was diagnosed in May '08 with some kind of cancer at the age of 22, just months after her marriage. Doctors wer'nt sure what it was. A small spreadable lump was developing on her back ,which got even worse after repeated operations.Even after several chemotheraphy sittings we couldnt get her back. I still couldnt imagine she left us all. Whenever I think of her I always get the feeling that she's living happily just as everyone of us are.

MICROWAVE BESAN LADOO

noreply@blogger.com (raaji) — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 18:20:00 +0000

This was something I was thinking of to make ever since I saw Srivalli's laddoo. I bookmarked it so that i could try whenever I crave for something sweet. So finally today felt like giving it a shot as I wanted to offer something on this first Sravana shukravaram(friday).I didnt know making ladoo would be such a fun and easy job.

INGREDIENTS: Makes 10-12 medium sized ladoos

Besan/Chickpea flour-------------------1 cup of standard measuring cup
Fine granulated Sugar-------------------1/2 cup

Ghee--------------------------------------6-8 tbp melted or more
Cardamom powder----------------------1/2 tsp
Cashews/Raisins-------------------------For decorating

DIRECIONS:

1.Mix Besan and melted Ghee in a microwave safe bowl well till incorporated and microwave on high for 5-6 minutes dpending on ur MW.

2.Keep stirring in between after every minute.Once it crosses the first 4 mins be sure to check it for every 30 secs.

3.The end product should usually be a nice light brown mixture with a nice aroma. The mixture should not dry like powder, otherwise the ladoos will not hold up their shape. Let it cool completely.

4. Once cooled, add the sugar, cardamom powder and cashews/raisins. Mix well and make small round ladoos of your own size. Enjoy!!

NOTE:

If you are not able to form nice shaped laddoos then it means the ghee was not sufficient .So adjust accordingly and try.

You can replace ghee with unsalted butter too.

DOSAKAI PAPPU/ DAL

noreply@blogger.com (raaji) — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 23:47:00 +0000

INGREDIENTS:

Toor Dal----------------------------------------------3/4 Cup of standard measuring cup

Dosakai/Round Indian Yellow Cucumber---------2

Jalapenos---------------------------------------------3

Onion-------------------------------------------------1/2 of medium one chopped

Tomato-----------------------------------------------1 medium one

Garlic pods-------------------------------------------4 chopped and crushed

Tamarind pulp---------------------------------------1 tbp

Coriander Powder------------------------------------1 tsp

Dry red chilli-----------------------------------------3-4

Cumin,Mustard Seeds------------------------------1 tsp each

Curry leaves-----------------------------------------few

Oil----------------------------------------------------4 tbp

DIRECTION:

1.Peel the skin of cucumber, Cut in half, Scoop off the excess seeds(can use few in dal), Cut to medium to big sized pieces(taste a small piece to see if bitter).

2. In a Pressure cooker add 3 tbp of oil and add Cumin seeds,Mustard seeds, chopped Jalapenos, dry red chillis, Garlic ,curry leaves and saute for 2mins.

3.Now add chopped onions and saute for 3-5mins ,then add soaked dal.

4.Add 2 cups water, tamarind pulp and cook till 2 whistles on medium flame.Then turn down the flame to low and cook for 5-7 mins.Then turn off and allow to stand till the pressure goes off.

5.Now add 1tbp oil in a big cooking vessel and add chopped tomatoes.when they turn soft add the cucumber chunks.Mix well ,cover and cook for 3-5 mins on medium flame.

6.Now the cucumber starts leaving some water.Add 1/4 th cup of water to this, some salt and cook till 3/4th done but not too tender and the water has almost lowered.

7.Transfer the pressure cooked dal to this cooked cucumber and mix well. Cook on medium-low flame with some salt/water(if needed) for 10 mins or till the cucumbers are done.

NOTE: If Dosekai is bitter theres no chance of using it in the dal. select ones that are not mature and soft enough.They become quite soggy when cooked.

There are two ways of cooking this dal: 1. Pressure cook dal and cucumber together with rest of the ingredients. Sometimes the cucumber becomes too soft and hard to find them in the dal.

2.Cook Cucumber and tomatoes with some salt till 3/4th cooked, then add in the pressure cooked dal+rest of ingredients, and and simmer low for 8-10 mins. This way i can see and taste some cucumber in the dal

Sending this to State Special Event.

BHARVAN BHINDHI

noreply@blogger.com (raaji) — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 20:50:00 +0000

INGREDIENTS:

Okra-------------------------------20-25 fresh
Onion-----------------------------1 sliced thinly
Jalapenos-------------------------2 chopped finely
Dry Red chillies-------------------2
Garlic------------------------------3 pods crushed
Cumin&Mustard Seeds-----------1/2 tsp each
Oil----------------------------------2 tbp

For stuffing:

Chana dal-------------------------1/3 cup of standard measuring cup(dry roast)
Coconut powder------------------2 tbp
Cumin Seeds---------------------1 tbp roasted
Garlic------------------------------3 pods roasted
Red chilli powder-----------------1-1/2tsp
Coriander powder----------------1 tbp
Garam Masala--------------------1/2 tsp
Lemon juice-----------------------1 tbp
Oil----------------------------------2 tbp

DIRECTIONS:

1.Wash okra , dry with paper towel and make a slit in the middle and keep aside.

2.Grind all the ingredients under ' For stuffing' section to a powder( except oil and lemon juice ).

After making a powder transfer 2/3rd powder to a small mixing bowl and add oil and lemon juice and mix well.

3.Add some water if required to make a smoothe paste and stuff each okra with it and Place all the stuffed okras in a steamer or idli plates. Cook them for 8-10 min.

4.Now heat oil in a wide pan ,add cumin seeds , musturd seeds , dry red chillis , garlic , green chillis and onions.

5.Sautee till onions are cooked for like 5-8 min and then add steamed okras.Cook them without lid ,on low flame for 15 min until well roasted.

6.Keep mixing in between .Finally sprinkle the remaining 1/3rd of the stuffing powder,some salt , mix well and cook for another 5 min.

7.Turn off ,serve hot with roti , or rice.

PINEAPPLE FRIED RICE

noreply@blogger.com (raaji) — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 02:15:00 +0000

INGREDIENTS:

Cold Cooked Rice--------------------3 cups
Pineapple chunks--------------------1 cup
Carrot Pieces ,Peas------------------1/4 cup each
Onion-------------------------------1 small one finely chopped
Spring onion------------------------2 finely chopped
Jalapenos---------------------------2 finely chopped
Garlic pods--------------------------3 finely chopped and crushed
Cashews/raisins--------------------1 tsp each(optional)
Soy sauce---------------------------2 tsp
Oil----------------------------------3 tbp + 1 tsp

DIRECTIONS:

1.Seperate the refrigerated cooked rice grains with hand by using 1tsp of oil and set aside.

2. Heat oil in frying pan and add cashews/raisins, chopped Jalapenos, Carrots, Peas, chopped onions, chopped white part of spring onion, crushed garlic and saute till onions are done.

3. Now add soy sauce and saute for a minute. Then add the rice, pineapple chunks, enough salt.

4. Stir-fry over medium-high heat for about 3-5 minutes.Remove from heat.

5.Garnish with chopped coriander leaves, chopped green part of spring onions and tsp of lime juice.

SPICY CHICKEN MASALA CURRY

noreply@blogger.com (raaji) — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 20:30:00 +0000

INGREDIENTS:

Chicken cleaned and washed--------------2 lbs

Chilli Powder------------------------------2-1/2 tsp adjust

Turmeric---------------------------------1 tsp

Ginger Garlic Paste-----------------------1-/2 tsp

Salt---------------------------------------to taste

Oil----------------------------------------3 tbp + 2 tbp

Onion-------------------------------------1 big one

Tomatoes---------------------------------2 big ones

To dry roast and make fine powder:

Coriander Seeds---------------------------1 tbp

Peppercorns-------------------------------1 tsp

Cumin seeds-------------------------------1 tsp

Cloves--------------------------------------6

Cardommon-------------------------------2

Cinnamon---------------------------------2" stick

Cashewnuts-------------------------------8-10

DIRECTIONS:

1.Marinate the Chicken in Chilli powder,Turmeric, Ginger-garlic paste, Salt for about 30 mins.

2.While the chicken pieces are marinating, make the powder as per the ingredients listed under the first section and set aside.

3.Heat 2 tbsps of oil and add the onions and saute till done for about 8 mins on medium heat. Then add the coarsely chopped tomatoes and let it cook for 8-10 mins.Turn off heat. Cool , grind and Keep aside.

4. Heat 3 tbsps oil and add the marinated chicken and cook on high flame for 6-8 minutes, then reduce the heat and cook covered for another 6-8 minutes.

5. Now add the ground paste, ground powder,enough salt and combine well. Add 1-1/2 cup of water or more and cook covered.

6.Cook till chicken pieces are done and you get the desired curry consistency.Turn off and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

COCONUT ALOO FRY

noreply@blogger.com (raaji) — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 21:20:00 +0000

INGREDIENTS:

Potato--------------------------2 large ones(peeled & cubed to medium sized)

Chilli powder------------------1-1/2 tsp

Garlic pods--------------------4 chopped finely

Oil------------------------------5-7 tbp for shallow frying + 1 tsp

Salt----------------------------as required

Lemon juice-------------------1 tbp

Curry leaves------------------few

Roast and grind to fine powder:

Coriander seeds---------------1 tbp

Cumin seeds------------------1 tbp

Poppy Seeds------------------2 tbp

Dessicated Coconut-----------3 tbp

Cloves--------------------------4

Cinnamon stick---------------1"piece

Cardommon------------------3

DIRECTIONS:

1.Microwave cubed potatoes in turmeric and salt water for 6-8 mins on high.

2.Take a wide pan and on medium heat shallow fry the microwaved potato cubes in batches with 3-4 tbp of oil till slightly browned on the sides.

3.Heat 1 tsp of the oil in a kadai and add chopped garlic,curry leaves and then after a minute add the shallow fried potatoes.

4.Fry them for 2-3 mins then add enough salt,chilli powder .Mix,cook uncovered for 3-5 mins or till the potatoes are completely cooked through.

5.Turn off the heat and add the ground powder,lemon juice and mix well till incorporated.

6.Serve with roti or naan.

Sending this to eventLet's go Nuts

AVOCADO DESSERT

noreply@blogger.com (raaji) — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 00:24:00 +0000

Have anybody tasted/tried some good recipes with avocados except for a dip???.....No,not me for sure. I see very few uses of it in cooking.....I always wonder when people buy them in bulk...what would they do with them????...Make dippings or Eat them raw or What??? .
You know what i thought this would be my 2nd post on avocado but guess what??? I made rotis with them too...How could i forget what i've cooked...Ok the coming to my 3rd post this can be reffered to as "Avocado Whip". I loved its taste when real cold.Go ahead give it a shot if you donot detest Avocado's.

INGREDIENTS:

Avocado-------------2 ripe ones

Sugar----------------1/4 cup or less depending on ur taste

Whipping cream-----1/3 cup

Lime juice-----------2-3 tbp

DIRECTIONS:

1.Wash the avocado and scoop out the flesh neatly with a spoon into a mixing bowl.

2.With the back of a spoon slowly mash the flesh into a uniform mixture.

3.Combine the rest of the ingredients and refrigerate for an hour.

4.Serve them with any syrup on the top or as you like.

DONDAKAYA/TINDORA VEPUDU

noreply@blogger.com (raaji) — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 23:08:00 +0000

Before going into the details of this recipe, I would like to thank each and everyone for their wishes and their caring words...That really made me feel good!!! Coming to me though am not much into cooking these days(Don't worry am eating:) ) most of the recipes that you'll come across in the coming days are quite old recipes that i have tried and tasted(some months back).

Dondakaya/Tindora is one such vegetable that people either hate it or just love it. I, for one donot belong to any of these category, but still prepare it once in awhile. This is astir fry version that requires tindoras to be crunchy in texture even after stirring it for over 25-25mins.

INGREDIENTS:

Dondakaya/Tindora/Ivy Gourds-----1/2 lb or 250gms appx of long variety(not the round ones)

Peanuts------------------------------1 tbsp

Fresh curry leaves-------------------10-12

Turmeric powder---------------------1/2 tsp

Dry Red chillies-----------------------2

Mustard seeds------------------------1/2 tsp

Oil------------------------------------2 tbp

Salt-----------------------------------to taste

To be Dry-roasted and ground to a coarse pwd:
Peanuts------------------------------2 tbp

Cumin Seeds-------------------------1 tsp

Coriander seeds----------------------1/2 tbp

Dry red chillis------------------------3-5

DIRECTIONS:

1.Heat Oil in a cooking vessel and once hot add the mustard seeds and let them splutter.

2.Add the curry leaves ,stir them. Roast 1 tbp of peanuts till light brown.

3.Adjust the flame to medium-low and add the freshly lengthwise-sliced tindora or frozen ones to the peanuts.

4 .Combine well and keep sauteing on medium-low heat for 3-4 minutes then add turmeric,salt and let it cook covered for approx 15-18 minutes or until the tindora lose moisture and have a wrinkled appearance and turns to a deeper shade.

5 .Keep stirring in between and see that you dont burn or overcook them. When you see that tindoras are done with that nice wrinkled and crunchy texture add the ground coarse pwd and mix well.

6. Let them be cooked for another 3-5 minutes on medium flame.Turn off and serve hot.

BEERAKAYA PAPPU / DAL

noreply@blogger.com (raaji) — Wed, 27 May 2009 20:10:00 +0000

I know that its been really like a cat-mouse game for you guys....I disappear and appear all of a sudden with some excuse. But i have been visiting all your blogs for once in awhile but couldnt leave any comments.Thats unexcusable???.. But you know sneaking thr' your blogs and all the previous posts one at a time was like a one-day batting before the final exams for me...Thats a silly comparision!!!..I finally have a news to share with you all....I want you all to guess, why i feel like sleeping for more hours,eating more of pickles,tangy fruits,last but not the least am eating for two .....

This dal is something i came up with almost like a few months back , when i had a small portion of beerakaya/ridge gourd in my fridge. I couldnt make pachadi/chutney as it wouldnt even yield a cup. I was all the way through its cooking was of the opinion that it would be a disaster as I didnt see my mom making this dal till now. But atlast i was happy that this beerakaya pappu didnt end up in the trash. It tasted quite different from the regular dals maybe due to beerakaya flavor.

INGREDIENTS:

Beerakaya/Ridge Gourd--------------1 small one washed,peeled slightly,cut in disc and halved.

Toor Dal------------------------------1/4 cup of standard measuring cup washed,soaked for 30 mins.

Tomato-------------------------------1 small one coarsely chopped

Red Onion----------------------------1 small one thinly sliced

Green chillies-------------------------3-5 depending on their spice level

Garlic---------------------------------3 pods coarsely chopped and crushed

Ginger--------------------------------1-1/2" piece crushed

Coriander powder------------------- 1 tsp

Salt,turmeric-------------------------as required

Tempering:

Oil------------------------------------2 tbp

Mustard,Cumin seeds--------------1 tsp each

Dry red chillies-----------------------3 halved

Curry leaves--------------------------8-10

DIRECTIONS:

1.In a pressure cooker vessel heat oil. Sauté the tempering ingredients until nicely fried.

2.Then add the sliced onions,green chillies,crushed ginger,crushed garlic and fry till onions are done.

3.Add chopped tomatoes,coriander powder,turmeric and cook till the tomatoes are soft.

4.Now add dal, ridge gourd and saute for a minute.Add 1/2-3/4 cup of water ,some salt and pressure cook for 2-3 whistles.

5.Turn off and let till the pressure goes off. Open the lid ,garnish with chopped coriander leaves,taste it and adjust the spices as per the taste.

RICE KRISPIES TREAT BARS

noreply@blogger.com (raaji) — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 20:05:00 +0000

Yes, These are made at home(not store ones)for under 4 bucks under 10 mins....Do u believe it.????? This is my second post that has Rice Krispies Cereal as the main ingredient,the first being a Hot Savory Rice Krispy Snack and this one that complements it . Another yummy idea is to use any flavored marshmallows or add chocolate chips to the cereal before mixing.Go crazy creating plain or choclate coated-Easter eggs .They're perfect for when you are short on time or for kids party time and stays fresh for 2 days outside(that means refrigerate after 2 days).I simply followed the recipe on the back of the Cereal box and here they are as it is. without any modifications.......

INGREDIENTS:20-25 medium sized ones(as in pic)

Rice Krispies----------------------6 cups

Butter----------------------------3 Tbps

Regular Sized Marshmallows------1 packet of 10 Oz size(contains about 35-40) Plain

DIRECTIONS:

1. In large saucepan melt butter over low heat. Add marshmallows and stir until completely melted. Remove from heat.

2. Add KELLOGG'S RICE KRISPIES cereal. Stir until well coated.

3. Using buttered spatula or wax paper evenly press mixture into 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan coated with cooking spray. Cool for 20-30 mins. Cut into 2-inch squares. Best if served the same day.

Note:
1.The recipe calls for 6 cups of Rice krispy cereal and 1 packet marshmallow which makes too much for a family without kids.So I suggest couples, just cut down the measurements by half .

2.I took a large sheet of Aluminium foil(double the size of pan), pressed the foil on to the sides of the pan instead using cooking spray and transferring the mixture into the pan.Then again simply folding it over the top compleely.

3.Better to refrigerate after 2 days.Make desired shape when cool but still warm enough to mould them.

POMEGRANATE POTATO SALAD

noreply@blogger.com (raaji) — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 19:43:00 +0000

Who doesnt love these Gems????In California, some local grocery stores carry this fruit, usually around November-February month,which of course is quite a short season for me. During that time I load my cart with the juiciest, largest "Gems=Pomegranates!" ,as many as I can and start having those seeds, without caring about the stains they leave all over the kitchen counter/Bowls/ clothes (difficult to get rid off).

This simple salad besides looking juicy, makes a great appetizer, too.If you ar too conscious then try replacing Potatoes with your favorite vegetable(Steamed carrot/cauliflower...) but dont compromise with the sour cream.Its different!!!!

INGREDIENTS:

Pomegranate---------------------------1 De-seeded

Potatoes--------------------------------2 medium ones boiled,peeled and cut to bitsize pcs

Sour Cream----------------------------4tbp or less or more

Red onion----------------------------- 1 medium to small one chopped

Cilantro+Mint-------------------------1 tsp each chopped

Salt+Pepper+Chat masala------------to taste

DIRECTIONS:

1.Extract the seeds from pomegranate.I guess everyone knows how to......

2.In a bowl combine all the ingredients together and mix together thoroughly.

3.Refrigerate for 2--30 mins till it gets chilled.

4.Serve plain or with bread.

ANGEL COOKIES

noreply@blogger.com (raaji) — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 18:59:00 +0000

Hey guys am back!!!!
I know i've been disappearing for quite a long time....But you know what it is like to spend some quality time with your loved ones.......Ofcourse I was in India for about 2 months..........Oh My!!! I couldnt explain how busy i was for 2 months shopping,attending parties,dinners......I was so spoilt.....

I just dropped by few of ur blogs and i couldt believe i missed them all......

Ok then lets get back to our cooking world....I made these cookies a long time back following the instruction on the back of a Flour Packet...They called them Sugar cookies.....But i'd love to call them the Angel Cookies b'coz they melted so fast in my mouth and looked sooo wonderful like Angel..........I would've done far better(coming to the shape)if i had used shortening,granulated sugar instead of butter,Confectioners sugar....B'coz using butter and regular sugar they melted in the oven and came out pretty flat rather than the cookie look....But heres the original recipe

INGREDIENTS:Yields 3 dozen cookies

All purpose flour-------------1 Cup

Shortening-------------------3/4 Cup

Confectioners sugar----------1-1/2 Cup

Salt--------------------------3/4 tsp

Vanilla ----------------------1 tsp

Roasted nuts-----------------2/3 Cup of ur choice

DIRECTIONS:

1.Preheat Oven to 325 deg. F.

2.Beat shortening & confectioners sugar until light and creamy.

3.Add salt & vanilla & beat to combine.Add flour at low speed, blending just to combine.Stir in nuts.

4.On a lightly floured board, press dough out to approximately 1/4" thickness and Cut out cookies with 1 1/2" round cookie cutter.

5.Place on a tray maintaining some gap.Bake 7-8 minutes. Note: they don't brown, so they will still be white when you pull them out of the oven.

6.Cool them and pop it into your mouth!!!!

ROSEMARY POTATO WEDGES

noreply@blogger.com (raaji) — Sun, 15 Mar 2009 00:41:00 +0000

INGREDIENTS:

Potatoes---------------------------2 big ones

Fresh Rosemary chopped----------1/2 tbp

Chilli Powder-----------------------1 tsp

Pepper Powder---------------------1/4 tsp

Garlic pods crushed-----------------4

Lemon Juice------------------------2 tsp

Oil----------------------------------2 tbp

DIRECTIONS:

1.Preheat oven to 400 degrees and spray a large baking pan with nonstick spray.

2. Mix together rosemary, garlic, chilli powder, pepper, lemon juice, salt to taste and oil in a large bowl.

3. Wash,peel and cut the potatoes into thin wedges and simply toss them in the above mix, to coat evenly.

4. Spread wedges in a single layer about 1/4 inch apart on the prepared baking pan and Bake them turning occationally until tender and crisp, about 30 minutes. Serve immediately.

FRUIT CUSTARD

noreply@blogger.com (raaji) — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 02:11:00 +0000

Great and easy dessert for a huge crowd.

I used Brown & Polson custard powder with vanilla flavor.

INGREDIENTS:

Fat-Free or 2%Milk----------3 Cups

Custard Powder--------------3 tbp dissolved in 1/4 cup of warm milk

Sugar------------------------6 tbp or more

Dates------------------------10 chopped roughly

Cut Fruits--------------------2 cups(use any variety)

DIRECTIONS:

1.Boil 3 cups of milk with sugar on med-low flame in a heavy bottomed vessel. See that the milk doesnot burn at the bottom.

2.When the milk comes to a rolling boil , set the vessel aside off the flame for 2 mins . Now stirring the boiled milk continiuosly pour the custard powder mix slowly.

3.Then immediately put on the flame and let it again come to a slight boil on med-low heat stirring in between.

4.Turn off.Cool down the mixture stirring once in awhile to avoid small custard lumps and chill.

5.Just before serving add in the cut fruits ,dates and Serve.

CRISPY ALOO FRY

noreply@blogger.com (raaji) — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 23:10:00 +0000

INGREDIENTS:

Potatoes-----------------------3 medium sized ones pelled and cut to bite size pieces

Rice Flour---------------------1 tbp

Sambar/Rasam powder-------1 tsp

Chilli powder------------------1 tsp

Turmeric----------------------1/2 tsp

Cumin seeds-------------------1/2 tsp

Oil----------------------------2 tbsp

DIRECTIONS:

1.Microwave the potatoes in some boiling water for 5-7 mins until they are cooked.

2.Remove and run under cold water.Pat dry.Heat oil in a pan.

3.Add cumin seeds.curry leaves when hot.Coat the potatoes with rice flour+ sambar powder+ chilli powder+ turmeric mixture and fry in oil.

4. Add salt and toss them until potaotes turn golden brown.

5.Serve hot with rice or roti.

VEGETABLE & EGG STIR-FRY NOODLES

noreply@blogger.com (raaji) — Sun, 15 Feb 2009 17:33:00 +0000

INGREDIENTS:

Egg noodles----------------1 packet (boiled, drained in cold water and tossed in 2 tsps oil)
Mixed Cut vegetables------2 cups (carrots, beans, cabbage,broccoli/cauliflower capsicum)
Eggs-----------------------2
Spring onions--------------2 chopped finely
Pepper Powder------------1 tsp (use freshly ground)
Soya sauce-----------------2 tsp
Rice Vinegar---------------1 tbp
Oil-------------------------1 tbp(Sesame) + 2 tbp (any other)

DIRECTIONS:

1. Heat 1 tbp sesame oil + 2 tbp any other oil in a large wok. Once the oil is hot, add the spring onions and stir fry for 1 mt on high.

2 Add the cut vegetables and toss them on medium-high heat for 4-5 mins.

3.Then break two eggs ,place lid and let it cook for 3mts on medium heat.. Then scramble the eggs. Mix well with other vegetables.

4.Add salt, pepper pwd, soya sauce and combine. Add the drained noodles and combine well.Cook on medium heat for 4-6 mins.

5 .Add vinegar, toss the noodles and vegetables on high heat for a few seconds. Turn off heat. Garnish with chopped spring onion greens.

CHEDDAR GARLIC BISCUITS

noreply@blogger.com (raaji) — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 23:24:00 +0000

The name itself says am "Cheesy".This particular pale-colored cheese is so different in flavor and smell that at simply having a bite you dont even know whether it can enhance or simply spoil any dish....To be honest i really dint like its taste when eaten raw.I was recommended by one of my friend to have it as its real good for women and kids.I was so curious and bought it.....But I was dissappointed at the first bite.....I didnt want to simply throw it away....I googled for some recipes where i found this one and tried it.I used the same cheese in making Mac&cheese ,in burgers ,whereever i felt like.....after a few tries i really dont have any inhibitions about using.having it the next time. And one more thing the older [this cheese] gets, the more the bacteria produce enzymes that break down its fats and proteins.

These biscuits were an easy enough thing to make, came out simple soft and they turned out to be a great Evening food/Bfast that I strongly suggest for this weekend!

INGREDIENTS:

All Purpose Flour----------------2 cups

Butter Unsalted-----------------2 tbps

Baking powder-------------------1 tsp

Milk------------------------------1 cup

Garlic-----------------------------2-3 cloves minced

Sharp cheddar cheese-----------1/2 cup-1 cup packeddepending on your obsession

Egg wash-------------------------1 egg+1 1/2 tablespoons water or milk(optional)
DIRECTIONS:

1.Preheat oven to 425 degrees and use a large non-stick baking sheet or line a tray with parchment paper..

2.In a large bowl sift together the flour and salt.See that u use butter at room tempurature and crumble into the dry ingredients until a crumbly meal is formed.

3.Add in the cheese and garlic and combine. Mix in the milk slowly without kneading.

4. When fully incorporated, take a big tbp of the batter and drop it onto the baking sheet until all of the dough has been used. No need of shaping them.

5.Gently brush them with eggwash and bake them for 25-35 minutes or until lightly browned on the top.

6.Serve hot with any dip or just them.