Taste Melanger

Welcome to my Home - A home tour

noreply@blogger.com (Taste Melanger) — Sun, 04 Feb 2018 08:23:00 +0000

Hope you have kickstarted your 2018 on a vibrant note and settled well into the routine as well. For me life has been swinging in different directions, for last few years, but coming back to my home, is what keeps me rooted and composed. Its my space of heaven!! Welcome and have a glimpse.

Shahrukh Khan & Team Raees in Dubai

noreply@blogger.com (Taste Melanger) — Sun, 22 Jan 2017 12:00:00 +0000

Yesterday was a special day for me. And for lots of other Shahrukh Khan fans in Dubai. The King Khan visited Bollywood Parks, Dubai for the promotion of his upcoming movie, 'Raees' and I was there for its press conference. Definitely a special day when you get to meet the king of romance in real.

Shahrukh Khan, dressed casually in jeans and t-shirt was his usual charming, warm and witty self. Even though the press conference was directed at the whole team - the director Rahul Dholakia, the producer - Ritesh Sidhwani and his co star - Nawazuddin Siddiqi, the superstar stole all the limelight. His friendly and easy banter with the media left everyone feeling excited about the movie.

He shared that Dubai was like his second home and his villa in Jumeirah is one of the most blissful place. And that he loves to simply chill and relax there with his friends and family. On being asked about his relationship with the Pakistani actress Mahira Khan and the heroine of the movie, he shared that due to lack of time, not much of personal exchange happened.

Nawazuddin Siddiqi, an acclaimed actor was his humble modest self and shared how he's intimidated by Shahrukh Khan in real life. At the end of the press conference, Sharukh Khan also shared the Arabic version of the popular song 'Zalima' from the movie.

After the media meet, Shahrukh and the team went to meet his fans waiting at Bollywood Park eagerly for him. The crowd were in their most excited form to see their superstar on satge.

Raees, an action thriller revolving around a clever bootlegger, played by Shahrukh Khan is a much awaited potboiler. Releasing on 25th January, go ahead and watch your favourite star in and as Raees.

A bright morning with Vermicelli - Namkeen Seviyan

noreply@blogger.com (Taste Melanger) — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 09:32:00 +0000

With all the dwindling interests of mine, there’s only one that has stood the test of time. And that is my faithful sleep. It’s my favourite companion. In joy, in sorrow, when I’m tired or even I’m drunk, my love for sleep never leaves my side. Thankfully there’s lot of solace in knowing that.

Sometimes when I’m wide asleep I dream of waking up to hot breakfast served in bed, by my dear hubby. See I told you laziness has no limits. It even enters the domain of my dreams. But then even God knows when I’m being dreamy and when I’m being plain lazy, so anyways this desire has yet not been rewarded by hubby in this way. Though he has made breakfasts for me on many occasions, as and when I lovingly requested him to. I guess I should be happy for that!

So on such days when you desire for a simple breakfast in the bed or on dining table to start your day on good note, I would highly recommend trying ‘namkeen seviyan’. A delicious savoury Indian breakfast with a hint of sweetness and warmth of cardamom and nuts. Have it with green tea or ginger tea and your smile will be back for a great morning!

Namkeen Seviyan is vermicelli (a bit thicker variety) combined with mild spices and nuts or veggies to make a hearty breakfast or even a light lunch. Great for packing in lunchbox of kids or to serve when you have unexpected guests.

Namkeen Seviyan/ Vermicelli Pulao Recipe

Ingredients:
Seviyan - 1/2 pack or 1 cup (I used MTR pack, which is bit thick and lightly toasted)
Mustard seeds - 1/2 tsp
Curry leaves - 3-4
Green chilly - 1 slit
Onion - 1 small, finely chopped
Oil - 1/2 tbsp
Boiled veggies - 1/4 cup (optional- like carrots, peas, potatao)
Nuts - 1-2 tbsp (I used cashews, raisins and peanuts)
Salt to taste
Black pepper - to taste
Cumin powder - 1/4 tsp
Sugar - a pinch
Lemon juice - 1/4 tsp
Coriander leaves for garnishing

Method:

1. There are many ways the vemicelli is used for this. Some like to toast it before adding to spices. Since I use thicker mildly toasted one. I prefer to put it boiling water for 2 mins to soften it. And then drain it, just like regular pasta.

2. Heat a pan and add oil/ghee to it. Then add mustard seeds and let it splutter. Add curry leaves and green chilly. Now add the chopped onion and saute it for a min or two, till its translucent. No need to brown it.

3. Now add chopped veggies, if using. Let it cook for a while and when almost done add the drained vermicelli. Add salt, black pepper, sugar and cumin powder and toss it all nicely.

4. Add toasted peanuts and other nuts. Add little lemon juice (optional) and garnish with chopped coriander leaves. Ready to serve . Relish it!

And next time teach your husband too to make this dish. You never know when you get woken up to this tasty breakfast in bed by him!

Dubai Food Diaries - Asha’s Biryani & Kebab Festival

noreply@blogger.com (Taste Melanger) — Thu, 15 Sep 2016 18:35:00 +0000

“A great recipe is like an immortal tune, it happens but only a few times in one’s life” - Asha Bhosle.

Seafood lovers of Dubai. Urban Seafood – Review

noreply@blogger.com (Taste Melanger) — Mon, 25 Apr 2016 07:41:00 +0000

Urban Seafood came as a delectable surprise to me.

Being located right opposite the clinic where I take my kids for visit to the pediatric; I had noticed this outlet on many occasions. Then named as ‘Slapfish’. But not being a big lover of seafood, plus being tucked in the quieter corner of the mall, I didn’t get around to visiting it. Till recently, when I got invited to review ‘Urban Seafood’ restaurant in Ibn Batuta. And realized that it’s the same joint, which has been rebranded.

This time, I decided to cross the bridge & taste the grub, to know for real, what makes it ‘ modern seafood shack’. As claimed by the restaurant. And to get even more authentic review, I took along a hardcore seafood lover friend with me. Yes two to tango!

We visited the place on a weekday noon for lunch and it was very quiet. Not surprising for the timing of the day, week and location. We were welcomed pleasantly by the staff on arrival and were taken in to their bright modern style décor with some vibrant reds & warm yellows. The décor was bright & airy but lacked much of character or interest. The lack of crowd or music made the place much quieter too. Yet it gave us ample room to chatter freely, which many restaurants cannot boast of.

Soon we were busy scouring the menu, which had a nice variety with seafood as central ingredient. From ‘crab quinoa salad’, ‘fried calamari’ to ‘prawn kunafa’ in appetiser; ‘tandoori salmon’, ‘thai roasted seafood basket’, lasagna & crab in the main dishes. Alongside it also had ‘handheld food’ like ‘fish tacos’ & ‘grilled lobster cheese sandwich with fries’. Not to forget the fresh juices & drool worthy desserts that was showcased. The menu definitely was well thought of and offered tasteful variety and good mix.

We ordered very simple meal, since we wanted to try the freshness of ingredients and flavour of the dishes. For starters it was ‘crab cake’ & ‘fried calamari” and for mains it was ‘grilled barramundi fillet’ along with fresh orange juice & mojito. The dishes were served promptly, which always works great on a weekday. All the dishes were absolutely fresh and delicious. My favourite was the crab cake – it was extremely tender & flavourful. So was the grilled barramundi, a delightful light dish for lunch. And the 'fried calamiri' added the contrast in texture, though I would have liked even more crunch. The refreshing mojito made the perfect complement to my food. In the end I so wanted to try their sinful ‘chocolate cake in jar with caramel sauce & toasted nuts’, yet I felt highly satiated with the savory ones. But surely will do on my next visit. And I’m sure of one soon.

My friend too totally enjoyed the experience, and we felt we should have visited the place much earlier, specially since its located in the mall we frequent so often. Moderately priced, Urban Seafood can become a cooler place if they add some energy in the restaurant, in terms of warmer hospitality, cooler décor, music just to liven up the place a bit. I would recommend you all to try this place if you are around the area. And I’m sure you will not complain.

Rendezvous with royal Chef - Carolyn Robb

noreply@blogger.com (Taste Melanger) — Thu, 31 Mar 2016 12:45:00 +0000

There are chefs and then there are royal chefs. And today we are talking about the later.

Photoshoots and my learnings

noreply@blogger.com (Taste Melanger) — Thu, 04 Feb 2016 04:05:00 +0000

Wow we have moved to 2016...time has a pace that noone can match. Specially not people like me who like to soak the sun and daydream. Anyone else out there? But 2015 was different, it gave me a new direction, a new dream.

We have always read about following your heart. But many times the heart is as lost as the mind. And for many of the mums who left their corporate life at the threshold of motherhood, this might be a familiar territory. Of loosing their own self in the demands of kids, family and home. The same was my story too. And I used baking & blogging to pursue my interests and to create my little world of creativity and passion. Blogging has given me a lot, apart from a hobby. It gave me lot of friends, numerous interesting events, umpteen yummy dishes and it introduced me to something new - photography. A passion, which grew over the years and made me a better blogger. Till last year, when I ventured into it professionally.

After over a dozen of such family/kids/party shoots in last few months professionally, I'm still a beginner, who is trying to create her space & style. But the important thing is that the journey has started. And like anything which is unfamiliar or new, it gets daunting & overwhelming at times. So I thought it would be good to keep making notes of my learnings & observation after every shoot. And today I want to share them with you....who knows when it might be useful to someone.

So here's my top learnings/some pointers for any of you looking to venture in the trade. Please note that its not a technical post nor do I claim to be a pro. But a glimpse of my learning...

1. Set the expectations right - This is of critical importance to understand, discuss and agree on all aspects of the shoot, like:

Duration of shoot - (whether you are particular that 2 hours is 2 or max 2 hr 15 mins). Else someone might be free to expect you to stretch to 2.5 hr. Is that fine with you? So be specific for the duration

No of shots - whether you are going to give only 'x' number of edited pics of or going to share 'y' number of unedited pics as well. At least a good range should be decided upon. I have experienced that with a birthday party of same duration of 2 hour, some clients have been happy with 80-100 pics, which covered it all; while other client expected nothing less than 500. Of course I had to politely refuse that client, since I wouldn't have liked my quality of image to be compromised by capturing only quantity.
Location/Props/ Clothes
Style/ Kind of shots - Apart from location, which I'm sure would be agreed upon, the style of shots should also be well discussed. Whether its fun style, or posed portrait or a candid shoot...share enough references with client to make them aware of your shoot plan. And for this pinterest is your best friend.
Delivery timeline
Permission to share on your social accounts/website - Don't forget to get a written/email confirmation of the same
Payment date & mode

Be as detailed & specific in your communication as you can be, and it will save a lot of pain later.

2. Make a shoot plan - Once you have it all sorted with the client, then make your own shoot plan. Even if its for a quick family portrait shoot. Plan the sequence you want to do, for eg. - first group, then individual, then 2nd group in 2nd location/dress change. This helps me firstly to plan it in my head how to compose the shot, which lens to use, and how to use the lighting as per the location. Also if a small child is there, its a good idea to get the group shot quickly when he is happy & rested, and then to move to couple shots when he is napping. And of course the basic flow needs inputs from clients to know their dress change or kids schedule.

3 3. Review your shots - This might be a very obvious one, but in the flow of covering the event or family photoshoot, I myself am guilty of not doing enough of this. And that is - Click. Review. Retake. Once you review immediately, you would either find something that is totally wrong or something that can be improved. Like a blurry shot, or low lighting or eye blink....could be anything. But you can fix it there than to regret it later.

4 4. Change your angle - I'm discovering how much wonder a change of angle can do. Again an obvious tip, but only when you put it in practice you will notice the difference. It will make the mundane more interesting, like this one.

6 5. Have fun - Don’t forget to get some fun, unique shots to make the most of the shoot. I can bet that would be the best of the lot and make the experience memorable.

Diwali sweets that sets the mood

noreply@blogger.com (Taste Melanger) — Thu, 19 Nov 2015 18:23:00 +0000

Diwali without sweets is like Christmas without Santa. Unimaginable.

The festive season has enveloped us with abundance of love, breezy wind and an exuberance in the air, that is simply infectious. It’s like falling in love once again. You can never get enough of this festive spirit, that brings family and friends closer, that celebrates love.

And Diwali is the King of festivals for our Hindu community in India. It celebrates the homecoming of Lord Rama and to do that, the homes are cleaned till shining bright, lit with diyas and candles, and the food table is laid with yummy treats to welcome the royalty. The tradition continues, and we all try to keep it alive in our own ways.

We have spent almost all the diwali in India with our family, but this year we couldn’t manage to go. Though felt terribly homesick, yet the positivity of the festival and the bright anticipating faces of the kids, motivated me to recreate the feel of the occasion.

So the house was spruced clean; new idols of Ganesha and Laxmi were bought, as per the tradition; and then these yummy sweets were made. Many of you might be familiar with how tricky preparing Indian sweets could be. Yes it requires lot more patience than a simple cake. So I decided to go both routes – traditional way of making sweet and other modern/quicker microwave version. So take your pick of which way to go. Or like me…..create both.

I love all types of sweets made of besan (chickpea flour) like besan ka halwa, besan ke ladoo and this one – besan ki barfi. Ingredients are simple and few, but the trick is to be patient while roasting the flour. It’s a slow process, and you have to constantly keep stirring. Not stopping even for a minute. By following this simple thing, this delicious sweet will adorn your dessert box.

Besan Barfi Recipe

(A delicious fudge like Indian sweet made of chickpea flour)

Ingredients:

Besan (chickpea flour ) – 2 cup

Sooji (semolina) – ¼ cup

Ghee – ¾ cup

Powdered sugar – 1 ¼

Crushed cardamom – ½ tsp

Crushed nuts – ¼ - ½ cup

Method:

In a heavy bottomed pan, melt the ghee. Add besan and sooji on medium flame.

Fry the besan, while constantly stirring, till its nicely browned and smells wonderful. This might take 15-20 mins, but be patient.

Now add the crushed cardamom and mix well.

Then add the powdered sugar, and keep cooking till its well mixed and is coming together. Finally add the chopped nuts.

Grease a tray with ghee and put the mixture on it and make it even. Now keep in fridge to set for an hour. Then cut in desired shape and store in air tight container. Enjoy!

The second recipe is of instant peda, made in 3mins microwave. Yes you heard it right...just 3 min is what you need. The recipe I used is from here, which uses milk powder and condensed milk. The only variation I did was that I added 2tbsp cocoa powder to half the batch and also made chocolate barfi. Great way to add variation to my gift box.

here

Quick lunch for the summers - egg chowmein

noreply@blogger.com (Taste Melanger) — Wed, 12 Aug 2015 19:24:00 +0000

Hello gorgeous! Yes I'm talking to you my reader, and not to the bowl of yummy noodles. How have you been? Hope the summers are treating you nicely. What a question, you might say. Summers are to be enjoyed by soaking all the lovely sunshine, and with great picnics and beach parties. Yes of course, only when we are able to stand outdoor for like 5 mins, in the blazing Dubai. We would surely plan a beach party, but maybe indoors.

You might be wondering where did I vanish yet AGAIN. Yes again has a repeat value in my blogging life. Like a lost child, I keep meandering my ways in the busy life. But like a good friend, it keeps looking for me and takes me back home. And we start again, from where we left, like there was no pause in between. That's how it is with best friends. It gives such a comforting warmth to be back in your own space.

But this time I have been busy with good reasons. And much of it is thanks to my blog. Love you! Yes in last few months, I did so many new stuff, which I was sceptical to try. I did it and it was good fun. And of course I have to share it all with my lovely readers.

Just to refresh your memory, I have been busy taking care of my two cute brats and have been a home maker for few years. Of course baking and blogging is always there in this journey. But lately I took it to next level, by taking baking classes. I still can't believe that while I, who had never used an oven before coming to Dubai, was the one taking classes. But then, the eager smile of the ladies who wanted to learn. and the platter of cookies, pies and cupcakes, assure me that I had indeed learnt something worthwhile. In the same direction, I also made many cakes on order, which was again a first time baking for business. See, calories are not always bad :)

But the bit, that got me even more excited is that I started with my own photography business. Here, I said it!!! Melanger Photography is up and running. I did a portfolio shoot for a three year old, a birthday shoot for one year old and a birthday party too. Next I'm doing a commercial shoot for a dental care centre. Yes the variety is getting wider. Please do check my portfolio here and let me know what you think of it. And if you like it, then do follow my facebook page, just to give me the much needed support.

If these were not enough to keep me busy and occupied, well there was something else too. While net surfing on one boring day, I had chanced upon an "entrepreneurs' competition" and had submitted an idea that was running in my head. And that's it, I forgot about it, the pressed 'enter'. But then few weeks before I was travelling to India for my summer holidays I got a call, that I had been selected in this competition, which was being run all over Middle East and Africa. Hence coming in top 50 from over 3000 participants was also a great deal. Surprised, shocked, nervous and so much more. Yet thinking of making the most of this learning platform, I went ahead, and started shaping my thoughts. Next thing I knew I was in top 10. It surely was one of the most memorable days of my life. Thank God I had holidays soon after this crazy schedule. It helped me unwind, and recharge myself.

After coming back, to the hot temperatures here, cooking and baking are not on top of my list. Specially the elaborate ones. They can wait for the cooler weathers. But hunger pangs can't wait till then. And for that, there are easy comfort recipes, that doesn't take time and yet always tastes yum! After all who doesn't like chinese food. I don;t see any hands out there :)

Easy Egg Chowmien/ Noodles Recipe

Ingredients:

1 packet noodles of your choice (I used Ching's Hakka noodles)
2 tbsp oil (used in parts)
1 onion, thinly sliced
1 capsicum, cut in thin strips
1 medium carrot, cut in fine strips
2 tbsp shredded cabbage
2 garlic cloves, chopped
1/2 ginger, finely chopped
1 tsp chilly flakes (optional)
1- 2 tsp soya sauce
1 tsp vinegar
1 tbsp tomato ketchup
1 tsp chilly sauce
Salt, as per taste
Black pepper
Spring onion, chopped - for garnishing
3 eggs

Method:

Cook noodles, as per packet instruction - in a large pot of boiling water, with salt and little oil. Once done, drain and keep in broad platter with little oil, to avoid sticking.
Keep all the veggies, chopped and ready. Heat a wok or broad thick bottomed pan. Add 1 1/2 tbsp oil and when it gets hot, then add chilly flakes and chopped ginger and garlic. Saute for 30 seconds.
Soon after add sliced onion, saute for few seconds. Then add carrots. and then capsicum and cabbage. Keep stirring to avoid burning. Add salt and let it cook till bit crisp but cooked through.
Now add all the sauces and vinegar and let the veggies absorb it al. Keep rotating the pan to avoid sauce getting burnt. Now add the drained noodles and mix it well.
Add salt, as needed and black pepper. Toss for a minute or two and keep it aside.
Heat another small pan, and add 1/2 tbsp oil. Whisk the 3 eggs in a bowl, with pinch of salt and pepper and add to hot pan. Cook it like an shredded omelette - or egg bhurjee, as in bit golden than the scrambled egg.
Add the egg pieces to the chowmien and mix it well. Crush some extra black pepper and garnish with spring onions (which I didn't have)

Your bowl of yummy chowmien is ready. Just grab a cosy corner and dig in. And with so many veggies packed into one, I'm sure mummies would also be glad to give to the little ones. A good dish for the lunchbox too. Most of the times, you need no side dish too. And when you do, we will make some chilly paneer. But that's for another day. Till then enjoy this one!!

Review - Pantry Cafe, a gourmet neighbourhood cafe

noreply@blogger.com (Taste Melanger) — Fri, 29 May 2015 09:13:00 +0000

The exuberance of Dubai is infectious. The excitement in the air, the buzz on the streets and the action around you, envelopes you. It prevents a shy one to hide in a cocoon. Rather encourages everyone to step out and mingle. To get introduced to different cultures, and to experience the diversity.

Thanks to being a mum and a blogger, I get to see this diversity of Dubai from various perspectives. And I keep discovering great places to be with friends and family.

One such new place that I discovered last weekend is Pantry Cafe, a friendly gourmet cafe. After the popularity of its Al Wasl branch, Pantry Cafe launched this new cafe, in Business Bay, Dubai. And they invited the blogger community for a taste of their vibrant menu and delicacies.

I visited the place with my family, which included my two kids, aged 6 and 3. And what I loved about the place, was the friendly warmth that it exuded. The cool ambience, the open kitchen and the cheerful smiles, made it all the 'friendly cafe' that it promises to be.

The tasting menu was elaborate and interesting. The kids loved their “Mango lassi” and “Cookies and cream” milkshake, along with the 'margarita pizza”. And as they got busy, relishing their treats, we got to trying their “Taster Menu”.

For starters there were some interesting options. From 'Savory Mushroom Waffles' with feta cheese, semi dried tomatoes and rocket, “Open Eggplant Sandwich” with sriracha, ricotta, roasted red pepper & tomato chutney and “Smokey tomato scramble”.

Then there was the middle eastern delight Shakshouka' - eggs cooked in a sauce of fresh tomatoes, red peppers, onions & spices, topped with crumbled feta & served with toasted pita bread.

The main course dishes kept the menu as interesting with “Baked Brie” and “Green Tea Noodles with smoked salmon”, “Mexican Chicken” and “Katafi Prawns”

For us the highlight were the eggplant sandwich and the green tea noodles. With fresh ingredients, and nice flavour combinations, the dishes were light, fresh and delectable. In fact with every dish, one could see the thought process that had been put into, making the dishes unique, fresh and cafe – style. Perfect for the weekend brunch or weekday bite.

And of course the menu would be incomplete without some yummy desserts. Pantry Cafe lived upto this challenge of giving the final course, a delicious flavour. The dessert menu included – bittersweet chocolate cake, churros, pecan nut tart, lemon curd shortbread and blueberry cheesecake. Yes sinful indeed. And quite a task, to find your favourite from such gorgeous treats. Still for me the cheesecake was like the icing on the cake.

You know you enjoyed your meal, when each member of the family, had their own favorites and loved the place equally. Would definitely recommend this “gourmet neighbourhood cafe”, if you are looking for something beyond sandwiches and wraps. And to enjoy good food in good company.

Eggless Orange Cake

noreply@blogger.com (Taste Melanger) — Fri, 22 May 2015 08:53:00 +0000

Whisking a cake, is more than creaming butter and sugar. For me, it is equal measures of indulgence, fun and absorption. The thought of that elusive perfect cake, keeps lingering in my mind and occupies all the space, in my tiny mind. And I search for 'that' recipe. Everytime.

Once the recipe has been settled for, the fun part of making the cake starts. Seeing few simple ingredients to come together to form a creamy sweet batter, is a pleasure. And then to see the evenly baked, perfectly done cake, emerge from the oven, is a mix of relief and delight.

After the cake, gets its due rest, it becomes my canvas to have fun. With sketchy ideas of the final look or even flavour combinations, and with even sketchier skill sets to decorate, I still jump into the game. And soon the game is won, with something simple and pleasing.

This time, the eggless orange cake became a "sunny" ground, with fluffy peaks. Inspite of it not at all being perfect, I loved this one - I guess, has to do with the bright color. Just made me feel happier and brighter. Yes, we all need some sunshine in life. And this one had some tiny butterflies also taking flights in the sun...as my friend described it :)

This cake was also my first cake on order. Felt good, doing it and hence I ensured that all requests were met: eggless - check, no chocolate - check, less cream - check, and no - butter too. Wow seems like a keeper of a recipe for easy eggless cake.

Eggless Orange Cake Recipe

Recipe Source: Here

(Easy eggless cake, flavoured with fresh orange juice. Makes an 8' inch cake)

Ingredients:

All purpose flour - 1 1/4 cup

Baking Powder - 1 tsp

Baking Soda - 1/2 tsp

Condensed milk - 1 can (400g) sweetened

Orange Juice - 1/2 cup

Oil/ Butter - 1/2 cup (I used oil)

Vanilla essence - 1/2 tsp

Powdered sugar - 1-2 tbsp

Lemon juice - 1 tsp

Orange zest - 1 tsp

Method:

Preheat oven at 180C. Line an 8" pan
Sift together, all purpose flour, baking powder and baking soda, to mix
In a separate bowl, whisk together - condensed milk, orange juice, powdered sugar, oil or butter, vanilla essence and lemon juice, till all mixed
Add this wet mix, to the dry ingredients and combine, till no lumps remain
Add orange zest and fold it in the batter.
Place batter in prepared pan. Tap to remove air bubbles and bake for about 25mins, till tester comes clean
Keep aside to cool, before cutting it

Note: If using fresh juice, check for the sweetness level. For me even 1tbsp was more than enough. Or you can use packaged juice, and skip sugar, all together too.

For Vanilla Frosting:

(Its a very light and not very sweet frosting, so works great to make cakes bit lighter)

Ingredients:

2 packets of Dream whip frosting

1/2 cup cold milk

Yellow food color

1 tsp vanilla essence

Method:

Add milk to the dream whip powder, in a bowl. With a hand blender, whip them together, on high speed, till it forms soft peaks. Add food color and vanilla essence and whip again. Put in piping bag, and use as desired.

Note - Adjust consistency, by adding drops of milk, if needed.

GRANOLA BARS - Guest Post BY SHREYA

noreply@blogger.com (Taste Melanger) — Tue, 19 May 2015 11:57:00 +0000

If there is one topic that will not evade the discussion of mums, it has to be about "eating concerns". Its kind of a bond that unites us all moms. A wave of emotion, that a mother of every origin, experience and character would relate to.

And with 2 fussy eaters of my own, I know its so hard to keep a combination of taste, variety, ease and nutrition in their meals. One "online group" that surely helps me to get inspired, after "PInterest" is the "Nutrition for kids" on Facebook. With almost 8,000 mums sharing their tips and recipes, it gets easier to sail though the "lunchbox mania" Hope you are there too.

Not just the recipes, I also get to interact with some fabulous mums. And such lovely lady is -Shreya Brahme, who is a trained dietician, specialising in "child care nutrition" and "Sports nutrition". Also a a yoga and naturopathy practitioner. Wow, just the kind of person, you would love to discuss about your child's health concerns. Right? So I thought it would be great to share her wisdom with all of you. You can know more about her at her website or her Facebook page. Over to Shreya............

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Hey all!! This is my first time sharing my blog with you, feeling really wonderful! Since 5 years, I’m working as a dietician, as wife and a mother. I’m always trying to keep my family healthy and happy. Cooking, making healthy choices from smart food is my hobby.

My views and tips about today's kids and mums:

According to me many times we are only one responsible for kids' eating habit and our self too (I mean mother too). Healthy food introduction is very important at this age (3-6 yr). It is not good to feed something junk just because he did not have his or her meal properly and he must have to eat before going to sleep. Please don't do this, dear mothers remember it is not only about food it's all about appearance, taste, colour. Please try to understand what your child's actual demand of that time, which colour, taste or food she attracts.

For mother specially newly mother, who tries to manage her job, baby, and housework, in this chore she forget about her meal, don't do this. If there is too much gap between two meals, it may lead to weight gain. Have proper balanced 4 meals in day, it will keep you happy. My funda "Happy mother, healthy child". If you are happy you will be in a good mood to cook healthy food and feed your kid patiently, and kid will healthy.

Tips which I personally follow and tell to my clients too

The best way to manage all this plan your weekly routine.

Spend time with them, educate your kid at their level.

Take them when your are going to shop vegetable, fruits or grocery.

Educate them to read labels.

Kids love granola bars, but store bought ones, will have too much added sugar and preservatives. By making it at home, you will give your child a healthy snack, that is easy and tasty.So presenting my new recipe with you all hope you all find it helpful for you.

Health benefits of this homemade energy bar

 Contain good complex carbs, which releases energy slowly slowly, this will help you stay energized for longer hours.

 I added Oats, which gives good amount of fiber

 Ghee- gives healthy fat to your body.

 It is best pre exercise and sport bar.

 Ideal for Growing kids.

Oats Nutella Energy Bars Recipe:

Ingredients:-

Plain Oats- 1 cup (I use Kellogg’s)

Muesli- ½ cup (I use plain Kellogg’s)

Honey- ½ cup

Nutella- 2 tbsp

Brown sugar- 1 tbsp

Ghee/ homemade butter- 1 tbsp (I used ghee)

Water- 1 tbsp

Vanilla essence- 1 tsp

Dry fruits- 1 tbsp (optional)

Butter paper

Method:-

1. Heats a pan, dry roast the oats until they are slightly brown n colour.

2. Now add muesli, roast for 3-4 mines.

3. Switch off the gas and keep aside

4. Now again heat a same pan with ghee once ghee melted, add honey, sugar, Nutella, vanilla essence, and water. Boil the mixture for 2-3 mins.

5. Now add oats and muesli, dry fruits mix well coat all with honey mixture.

6. Take a plate place a butter paper, spread the above mixture on paper,

and make square or rectangular shape.

7. Cover this with another butter paper, put this into refrigerator for 5 mins

8. Take out from refrigerator, remove covered paper, cut into your desire shape, again cover with same butter paper, refrigerate for 15- 20 mins. or until it becomes crispy

9. Now remove both papers, your oats Nutella bar are ready to eat.

10. You have to store this into an airtight container.

11. Complete the meal with glass of milk.

Please try this recipe and let me know your feedback..Thank you hope we will meet again.
____________________________________________________________________________

Please note that the granola pics in this post is from the earlier Granola recipe and the bar pics are from this recipe.

Thanks Shreya for the wonderful tips and yummy recipe. We also hope to see more of you.

Whisking affair - Baking Class

noreply@blogger.com (Taste Melanger) — Fri, 08 May 2015 03:03:00 +0000

One more birthday cake has been cut. Gifts have been opened and another year has been added next to me. To my age.

As one grows older, birthdays are less about celebrations but more about appreciation. Appreciating and being thankful for all that I have been blessed with. And I have been blessed with lots. Most importantly a lovely family.

Birthdays are also a good time to ponder, to pause and to restart. Almost like New Year. And this birthday I decided to make every day count. Do what the heart desires and to go with the flow. To keep caution away and to live the moment.

The birthday weekend started with a fun outing to the Dreamland water park. And after hours and hours of splashes and rides, giggles and laughters, we were all exhausted. So a restful night at Barracdua resort, right next door, was like a life saver. A perfect quiet way to wind a hectic action packed day.

The days after the weekend, brought a new start with a baking class. Something which I had been keeping on hold for very long, since I wasn't so sure. But then when the timing is right, the heart say yes. So yes I said for this lovely group, who wanted to learn baking. And it was so much fun.

Over chit chat, we all learnt to bake - eggless vanilla cake, checkerboard cookies and tarts. Chocolate mud cake is also on the list. The best part of baking with friends, is the camaraderie. Of sharing the experience, of tasting the treats and laughing over silly things. Yes, definitely I'm doing it again!!

While teaching these recipes, I realised that many of them are not even posted on my blog. Time to add them to my favourites. But the one that is there is the Mud cake . And I'm soon going to update that post with new pics as well.

Till then, enjoy these virtual treats, from my kitchen to yours.

Taste lies in the dip. Coconut and Peanut Chutney

noreply@blogger.com (Taste Melanger) — Tue, 07 Apr 2015 11:59:00 +0000

I used to hear that having a child, is like a rebirth for the mum. Well I never understood till I experienced. The body transforms and undergoes so much that no words can do justice to the emotional and physical transition. It takes time to absorb it all. The perplexity of the challenge. And one such challenge to see your reflection in the mirror.

I have been blessed with 2 lovely kids. Which is a subtle and beautiful way of saying, that I was hit by this catastrophe twice. Can't say which was a harder blow, but the combination of both, left me in a body, which looks alien to my older self. Yet its the only one I am in twenty hours a day, seven days a week. How I wish I could just change into a better looking and fitting me. Yeah, wish!!!

So here I'm shying from the mirror, even after 2.5 years of my 2^nd pregnancy. I know holding to this reason seems like such a lame excuse, when you have such diva mums around. Each one more ravishing than the other, leaner and fitter than even the Shipa Shettys of the world. But then my story, is much my own, as is my body. It won't change just by looking at anyone else. The change has to come from within. In this crazy schedule of juggling kids and their schedules and their tantrums, the effort of bringing a lifestyle change is not easy. Yet is, when the mind-shift changes.

Thankfully my alien body and not so alien mind, have found solace in making that extra effort for the change. So when I would not even hear of the word diet, yet few good things are happening in my kitchen:

Olive oil has replaced sunflower/canola oil.
Whole wheat atta flour is fortfied with soya/oats and ragi flour.
Meals are becoming more high protein-low carb.
Whole wheat flour is used in baking too
Snacks are becoming healthier with boiled chickpeas, popcorn, or roasted foxnuts.
Fruits are being eaten more
And water consumption is definitely on a high.

Rest is work-in-progress :)

While we try to follow many western trends and diet plans to loose weight or to become fit, we sometimes ignore the simple Indian food that can help us in doing so. One such great dish is Idli – with only 39 calories, per idli. Idlis contain no fat, no saturated fat and no cholesterol. So why are we not having more of it??

Today I'm going to share two delicious chutneys, to relish your yummy idlis with. One is the common coconut chutney and the other not so famous peanut chutney. Both are great to have idli and dosas and are really easy to make.

Coconut Coriander Chutney Recipe:

Blend together - 1 bunch cleaned coriander leaves (thick stalks removed) + 1/2 cup freshly grated coconut + 1 tbsp roasted chana / 1 tbsp sattu ka atta + 2 green chillies
Once blended, add salt to taste and a squeeze of lime. Add water to adjust consistency.
Prepare tempering, by heating 1/2 tbsp oil. Add one dry red chilly and 1 tsp mustard seeds and 2-3 curry leaves. Add this tempering to the prepared chutney.

Note -

Tempering is optional.

The ratio of coconut and coriander can be varied as per liking.

You can also add curd, to adjust consistency.

You can make the chutney as smooth or as coarse as you prefer.

Peanut Chutney Recipe:

Dry roast 1/2 cup peanuts. When slightly cold, remove the skins.
Add skinless roasted peanuts, 2 dry red chillies and 1 clove of garlic to a grinder and make a bit coarse paste, with little water. Add 1 tbsp tamarind pulp and blend again.
Now add salt to taste, pinch of sugar and 1/4 tsp chaat masala. Add water to adjust consistency.
Prepare tempering, by heating 1/2 tbsp oil. Add 1 tsp mustard seeds and 2-3 curry leaves. Add this tempering to the prepared chutney.

Note -

Tempering is optional.

You can add pinch of turmeric powder, to get bit of color in this pale chutney.

Using sugar is also optional.

You can make the chutney as smooth or as coarse as you prefer.

Chana Masala for hearty brunch

noreply@blogger.com (Taste Melanger) — Wed, 01 Apr 2015 05:18:00 +0000

"Staying connected is easy. But connecting truly is not."

My phone beeps, and even while cooking, my fingers move mindlessly to check the notification. I'm trying to teach multiplication to my son, and once again the phone beeps. My phone flashes lovely pics of my schoolmate's daughter's birthday party. Before I even realize, I have “liked” the image and written some generic message on her wall, while my son is waiting for the next instruction. Seems like my phone has become the most privileged one; getting the most undivided attention at all hours of the day. However mundane and meaningless the trigger of that beep is.

My social world is expanding. At least in the virtual world. I am connected to everyone possible. From childhood classmates, to forgotten relatives. From neighbourhood mums to hobby groups. From blogger buddies to my son's batch mates' mothers. Yes everyone. But I wouldn't even know the surname of many or birthdays of most. And just forget about knowing anything about their nature, likes or personalities. After all we are just 'socially connected'. Yes that's how I define these virtual relationships. Though it might be mundane, yet a necessity. To be connected to a world outside your four walls. Specially when you are in a foreign country, away from your loved ones.

But like in all things, balance is the keyword here. Its very easy to fall prey to the trappings of social network, and to stop appreciating the world around. To respond to the beeps than to notice the expressions of the people around. To replace the real for the virtual. And that's when you need to switch off the gadgets, and go for a walk. Breathe the fresh air and smell the roses. And to have a real conversation.

Thankfully, I am blessed to have good company in Dubai. Friends, with whom I can chat and laugh and have coffee. Mostly with kids, when they play endlessly. But sometimes without too, where we are not distracted by the antics of the little ones.

Last month I hosted one such brunch at my place. After all this is something, which you cannot relish virtually. The menu was a mouth watering Punjabi one – kulcha chola, hariyali paneer tikka, mango lassi and brownies. Even writing that menu, is making me crave for more :) Wish I was able to take more pics, before it all vanished.

Chana Masala/ Amritsari Pindi Chola Recipe

(A Punjabi style spicy chola/chickpea semi dry curry. Perfect with soft kulchas, naan or even parathas)

Ingredients

1/2 cup chola/ chickpeas (soaked overnight)

2 tbsp oil

1 bay leaf

1 black cardamom

2 cloves

1 tsp cumin seeds

1 large onion, finely chopped

1 tsp ginger- garlic paste

2 green chillies, slit lengthwise

3 medium tomatoes

1 tbsp tomato puree/paste

Salt, to taste

Pinch of sugar

2 tsp coriander powder

1 tsp cumin powder

1.5 tsp Chola Masala/ chaat masala

1/2- 1 tsp red chilli powder

1 tsp garam masala

1/2 -1 teaspoon of tamarind paste/ amchur powder/lemon juice

1 tsp kasturi methi (crushed)

2 tsp tea brewed in 1/2 cup water or 1-2 tea bags

For serving:

Chopped onion, chopped coriander leaves, ginger strips and lemon slices

Method:

Pressure cook chickpea with salt and enough water, till done. (about 4 whistles).
In a pan, heat oil. Add whole spices (bay leaf, black cardamom and cloves) to the hot oil. Let it fry then add the cumin seeds, and let it sizzle. Then add the chopped onion and ginger garlic paste. Saute well, till light brown.
Then add the chopped tomatoes. And the dry spices (coriander powder, chola masala, cumin powder, red chilly powder and pinch of salt and sugar). Cook on medium high heat, till tomatoes are soft and masalas are cooked and oil separates.
Add tomato paste and tamarind paste/amchur powder (mango powder), and cooked chickpea. Let the get well blended with the chola. Cook for 5 mins. Taste and adjust salt and spices.
Now add the brewed and strained tea and dried kasturi methi and over and cook for few mins. The color will get darker. Add more tea if you prefer darker color. Finish off with garam masala and squeeze of meon.
Garnish with chopped onion and coriander leaves. Serve with warm kulcha or bhatura or naan. Its delicious in every way.

Notes:

Like most Indian curries, this one too is a perfect amalgamation of all flavours – salty, spicy, sour and sweet. So do taste and balance the flavours, as per liking.
You can add any souring agent, tamarind is the best, though bit strong os we prefer amchur (mango powder). Even lemon juice does the work.
Dry pomegranate/ anardana adds a unique flavour to this dish. But in absence of that, a good variety of Chola Masala helps. Every masala blend will be different, so while using one, keep a check on other spices. I prefer to start with less and add more, as needed.
Tea is what gives this chola the characteristic black color. You can add tea bags in the pressure cokker, while cooking chola or add later (as I did). But if you prefer non-black curry, skip tea and add 1/2 tsp turmeric powder.

11 easy sweet treats for Holi

noreply@blogger.com (Taste Melanger) — Sun, 01 Mar 2015 03:43:00 +0000

My dreams are not black & white. They are in turquoise, peach and lime green. Yes in specific shades of my favourite colors. My wardrobe is the same. Not segmented by styles, but by swatches of colors. These myriad shades, fill my life with umpteen emotions. With love, care, bliss, solitude, laughter and so much more...

So when there's a festival of colors, then it has to be on top of my list. Holi, is one such festival, we all look forward to. A festival, to celebrate life in all its colors. Full on.

And on another sweet note, the blog gets a rebranding and its own domain. Taste Junction is now Taste Melanger, and here's the new logo. Hope you like it.

So here I'm compiling some really easy and yummy sweet dishes for this special occasion. Plan ahead and I'm sure each one of you can create a lovely spread, made with love and warmth.

1. Gajar (carrot) Halwa

2. Rice Kheer

3. Coconut Barfi

4. Rasmalai

5. Rabri in Chocolate Cup

6. Nankhatai

7. Kaju Katli

8. Chocolate Truffles

9. Mango Fool

10. Raspberry Cooler

11. Aam Panna

Wishing all of you and your family a very Happy Holi in advance. Have a colorful dream!

Welcome to the sweet world of chocolates

noreply@blogger.com (Taste Melanger) — Wed, 21 Jan 2015 18:05:00 +0000

It's the perfect muse in the world of taste. It's bitter-sweet taste tantalizes the taste buds and the satiny finish and creamy texture, takes ecstasy to a new level. It inspires the culinary gurus to create an array of desserts, and becomes centre stage at every spread and gatherings. Yes we are talking about the sinful chocolate here.

Welcome the new year with comfort of old - Swedish Visiting Cake

noreply@blogger.com (Taste Melanger) — Wed, 14 Jan 2015 09:46:00 +0000

Welcome 2015. Welcome January. You are one lucky chap. The rest of the months act funny, play pricey, bring lots of mixed goodies and earn a bad name. But never you. You are always the goodwill ambassador, whom everybody loves to welcome in their home. After all, you bring the ray of hope with you along with announcement of the new year. We love to wait for you, to say goodbye to the year gone bye, and to get ready for new set of excitements and events of our lives. Yes you really are one lucky chap!

Our family always found picnics to be a great way to welcome the new year. The breeze in the air along with the winter sunshine is just the picture postcard way of a perfect family day. At least in Dubai, where this season is too good to be true. Not too cold, to pack us inside, not too warm to make us isolated from the pleasure of winter. Just pitch perfect. So a holiday is one where the whole city can be found in the outdoors. Mall visits can wait till scorching summer, when we would be forced to hide. Till then out we go....

And as comforting are the traditions of mid night parties on new year eve, and picnics on bright new day, same comfort we solicit from food most of the times. The sweet taste of freshly home baked cake, just soothes your senses to a comfort zone. Like the friend you had grown up with. Whom you can bank forever. At any time of the day and night. This recipe is also like that. Unpretentious, bankable and comforting.

The recipe of Swedish Visiting Cake was shared by the baking goddess Dorie Greenspan in her book, and she mentioned that it was friend's mother's recipe. Thanks so much lovely lady, where ever you are, for sharing, this gem of a recipe which is sheer buttery goodness with a sweet topping of almonds and sugar and smells heavenly of vanilla and lemon zest. Now if you are wondering about the rationale behind the name of the cake, then that's an easy one. This delightful cake is so easy to whip, that you can bake it right when you see visitors approaching. And it would be ready by the time they settle down for a cup of coffee. Intrigued? Get your baking pan out then.

Swedish Visiting Cake Recipe

An easy, buttery and delicious tea cake, which can whipped in a jiffy!

Recipe Source - Dorie Greenspan

Ingredients:

1 cup + 1 tbsp sugar (for sprinkling)
1 tsp zest of lemon/orange
2 eggs
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp ground cardamom (optional)
1/4 tsp vanilla
1 cup all purpose flour
120gm butter (melted and cooled)
1/4 cup sliced almonds
2 tbsp choco chips

Method:

Preheat oven at 180 degree. Line an 8/9 " baking pan
Take a large bowl and rub lemon zest to sugar. Add eggs, one at a time and whisk well, after each addition.
Add salt and flavourings.
Add the flour and stir till mixed. Then fold the melted butter to it. Do not over mix.
Scrape batter to prepared pan. Top with almonds and choco chips (if using) an sprinkle sugar on top.
Place in oven and bake for about 25-30 mins. Place outside for cooling.
Serve warm or at room temperature.

Note - Some melted butter will remain on top of batter, unmixed and that's fine.

Use of cardamom and choco chips are not part of the exact recipe.

Sending this yummy cake to the Bake Fest#39 being hosted by Vardhini of Cook's Joy.

Festive Baking - Croissants

noreply@blogger.com (Taste Melanger) — Sat, 13 Dec 2014 03:45:00 +0000

Reposting this old post for the Bake Fest. Enjoy!

Virtual Festive Party - Bake Fest #38

noreply@blogger.com (Taste Melanger) — Wed, 03 Dec 2014 06:28:00 +0000

The world of blogosphere works on the same principles like the real world in many ways. You make friends, you share joys and sorrows, you connect and you celebrate! Even in this virtual world we make ways to share the joy of good food, the aroma of our kitchen through virtual events. Such events not only bring strangers closer, but also makes us familiar with new and appetising recipes. So let's welcome one such yummy event - Bake Fest!

Started by Vardhini of Cook's Joy and a dear friend, this series has been running successfully and now is in the 38th edition. I'm sure with the festive season here with Xmas and New Year, there's going to be lots of yummy baking in your kitchen. So simply share it here, for a great party!

The event runs from 1st December to 31st December. The rules of entries are: Dec 1st - Dec 31st.

1. Send in any recipe that has been baked / broiled.

2. Only vegetarian or vegan recipes please. I normally accept eggs in baking and hence eggs are allowed.

3. Usage of the logo is appreciated as it helps spread the word.

4. Link to this post and Vardhini's Bake Fest announcement page.
5. If sending an old entry, it needs to be re-published with the links.

6. You can send in any number of new entries and a maximum of 2 old entries.

An InLinkz Link-up

If facing a problem in posting, then mail me at - anamika.arun@gmail.com. Looking forward to some yummy treats! Happy Baking!!

Souqs, Sea and Skyline: Doha - Travel Diary

noreply@blogger.com (Taste Melanger) — Sun, 21 Sep 2014 03:41:00 +0000

“Round the corner there may wait, a new road or a secret gate.” Tolkein

I had it all planned. And then “Life” happened.

That should be the summary of my life. But no, not in a sad, remorseful way. But in a beautiful reflective way. Only when we embrace the unexpected, we experience anew. And this is exactly what happened to me last week. A sudden trip to Doha. As guests of Qatar Tourism Authority.

It was a mundane day. Rather a bad day. A day when you are home sick, brought to extremes by your little kids. When you think, nothing is right. Yes one of those days, which every mommy can relate so very well. And then I saw this e-mail, in my inbox. To quote, “I am contacting you on behalf of Qatar Tourism Authority. We are very inspired and impressed by your blog, and would like to invite you for a trip to Qatar on the occasion of the Qatar Summer Festival 2014”

A crowd pleaser - Paneer Makhni

noreply@blogger.com (Taste Melanger) — Tue, 09 Sep 2014 03:34:00 +0000

The beautiful garden of the resort was glistening with the golden lighting. The drinks were getting mixed flamboyantly, the pretty ladies were elegantly showing off their solitaires and the music was trying to find its audience. As the party was getting warmed up, the sublime quietness couldn't be mistaken.

At that very precise moment, she entered. Dressed to kill, in that bold yet so sophisticated red dress. The white stilettos, added not just height, but lot of grace and poise to the demure beauty. Many pairs of eyes turned quickly to greet, while others preferred to show ignorance; while making a mental note to know her in person.

Flavours of Africa: Tribes – A Restaurant Review

noreply@blogger.com (Taste Melanger) — Wed, 27 Aug 2014 07:40:00 +0000

Dubai is surely a foodie's delight with its excellent culinary offerings. The modern cityscape, is generously dotted with some of the best restaurants, of a wide range of cuisines. Having recently moved to this cultural melting pot, I was eagerly looking forward to get on a delicious joyride. And being a food lover and a blogger, the reasons were many. One such good reason came in the form of an invite, to review an African restaurant called Tribes.

Tribes, a casual dining restaurant, opened about 4 years ago in the fashion dome of Mall of the Emirates. Its uniqueness is stamped in its African influence. It offers a cultural and culinary experience, inspired by the varied flavours of Africa and its diverse tribes. Bit unsure of my expectations from the place. Yet excited to do the taste testing, I chose my seafood loving, photographer friend, as my companion for the evening.

Celebrating photoshoot with baked custard

noreply@blogger.com (Taste Melanger) — Fri, 22 Aug 2014 11:52:00 +0000

Life is fun when interesting things happen. When pre conceived notions and apprehensions are left behind, to enjoy the new. Last week I too crossed one such mental hurdle. Of being in front of the camera.

Now like most of us, I too have lots of opinions (mostly negative) of the way I look, specially in pictures. My relationship with camera works better, when Im behind it. Though my friends and family have complimented me many times, on being photogenic or looking good in my pictures, yet I always gave credit to their faithful love for me, than anything else. So when I won this opportunity to be a model for "Mandy Toh's" portrait shoot, I amazed myself by taking it up! Yes life needs challenges.

Healthy Lunchbox ideas - A Guest Post

noreply@blogger.com (Taste Melanger) — Thu, 14 Aug 2014 09:28:00 +0000

You know its morning, when the mind is sleeping and the eyes are struggling to stay awake. When there's no desire stronger than getting under the cosy duvet, and shutting the world for few extra minutes. Alas, that would not be so, since its the school time for the kiddo. So wake up 'mumma' and pack a healthy, tasty lunchbox for your dearest.

If you are still enjoying a life without kids, then please skip the post, as you hit the snooze button for the nth time. But if not, then I'm sure you got hooked by the title of the post itself. Like a sponge, every mom tries to get as much info on what to feed their picky eater. How to get some healthy and nutritious food into the little tummies. And yes it got to be quick too, since we are talking about lunchboxes, which gets packed in the wee hours of the morning...and not some lavish brunches, made for the weekend.