Nithya's Kitchen

MINI IDLI SAMBHAR

2016-03-17T15:47:00.000+05:30

Mini Idki Sambhar is one such recipe whereby the sambhar is drinkable,rich,flafourful and is of slightly thin consistency than the usual sambhar.People in Tamil Nady call it as 14 idli sambhar or ghee idli sambhar.Here in Karnataka it is called button idli and is served with sambhar.Whatever the name might be,it is a tasty and filling recipe which can fill your hungry tummy any time of the day.I kept the sambhar here,simple and just added veggies and sambhar powder.It is so flavourful that you can simply drink the sambhar and eat your idlis and enjoy every bit to the fullest.If you are planning to make it for the evening,you can make the idlis and sambhar in the morning itself and reheat it in the evening.So here goes today's recipe.Try out and let me know about how it turned out..

SUMMARY
Course:Breakfast
Cuisine:South Indian
Serves:2
Preparation Time:10 minutes
Cooking Time:20 minutes
Total Time:30 minutes

INGREDIENTS

Idli Batter-1 cup
Oil for smearing on idli Mould-1/2 tsp

FOR SAMBHAR

Tamarind-a gooseberry shaped ball
Sambhar Onions-10
Tomato-1
Cooked Tur dal-1/2 cup
Sambhar Powder-2 tsp
Salt-to taste
Coriander Leaves-for garnishing

FOR TEMPERING

Mustard-1/2 tsp
Red Chilli-1
Green Chilli-1
Fenugreek Seeds/Methi-1/2 tsp
Asafoetida-1/4 tsp
Oil-1/2 tsp

FOR SERVING:

Ghee-2tsp

HOW TO MAKE

Mix idli batter well.Apply oil on small idli mould and pour in the batter.

Steam for 10 minutes and after 5 minutes remove the idlis and place them on a plate for later use.

Soak tamarind in water.In a heavy bottomed vessel,add oil followed by mustard,methi,red chilli,green chilli and asafoetida.

Add sambhar onion0s and tomato.Fry them well..

Add sambhar powder and salt.Add tamarind extract.

Pressure cook tur dal with little turmeric for 3 whistles and keep ready beforehand.Wait till the raw smell of the sambhar powder and tamaarind extract to go away.Add it to the boiling tamarind and vegetable mixture.

Once the sambhar has thickened a bit switch off the flame and garnish with coriander leaves.Just before serving add dollops of ghee.

Enjoy it hot as a breafast or for dinner too.

Notes

You can add carrots and beans or even radish cut into small pieces alongwith onions and tomato.
You can add add freshly roast and ground coriander seeds,channa dal and red chilles alongwith sambhar powder.
Adding ghee enhances the taste.
This will be a hit among kids.
Serve always pipng hot.

MASHED POTATOES

2016-03-16T14:11:00.000+05:30

Mashed Potatoes is an American recipe which is very predominantly used in their cuisine.It is very easy to make and this recipe is made by my dear daughter who loves to make international recipes.I am a bit conditional and do thigs all by myself in cooking,but this was an exeption.Since it is easy and quick to make and one of her favourite recipes,she chose to make this one.She has helped me in many occasions,be it chopping the veggies,preparing a dish,selecting dishes or plates for photography including props.This one is her own recipe and made by her.I am so proud of posting this today as she herself made it.See down below

SUMMARY
Course:Side Dish
Cuisine:American
Serves:2
Preparation Time:10 Minutes
Cooking Time:10 Minutes
Total Time:20 Minutes

INGREDIENTS

Potatoes(big)-3
Butter-1tsp
Garlic-2 pods
Mixed herbs-1/2 tsp
Black Pepper Powder-1/2 tsp
Salt-to taste
Milk-1/4 cup
Grated Cheese-2 tsp

HOW TO MAKE

Boil Potatoes and peel them.Mash with the help of a fork nicely.

In a pan add butter and crushed garlic.Now add mashed potatoes.

Add milk and salt to taste.

Add grated cheese and black pepper powder.

Add mixed herbs and mix well.

Serve with any bread or just as it is.

Notes

Add milk more if you find the potatoes too dry.
Add some more cheese at the time of serving for more taste.
You can top with fresh cream too.

VAZHAIKAI MANJAPODI CURRY/RAW BANANA TURMERIC CURRY

2016-03-15T22:04:00.000+05:30

This recipe may be unknown to many and is a traditional recipe of People hailing from Tanjavur District in Tamil Nadu.They have a typical and one of a kind cuisine.I hail from This place and have tasted this yummy banana curry at home.Mom makes it during Amavasya or no moon day this curry or Vazhakai Podimas.It is customary to make Raw Banana on Amavasya day.This has minimal ingredients,yet it is very tasty and colourful, owing to the addition of turmeric powder as the name itself says.So here is the recipe for Vazhakai Manjapodi curry.

SUMMARY
Course;Side Dish
Cuisine:South Indian
Serves:2
Preparation Time:10 minutes
Cooking Time:15 minutes
Total Time:25 minutes

INGREDIENTS

Raw Banana-1
Coconut Oil-2 tsp
Mustard-1/2 tsp
Urad Dal-1/2 tsp
Red Chilli-1
Asafoetida-1/4 tsp
Turmeric Powder-1/2 tsp
Curry Leaves-1 sprig
Salt-to taste

HOW TO MAKE

Remove skin from raw banana.Chop into cubes and add them in water to prevent them from discolouring..In a pan of water add cubed banana pieces and turmeric powder.

Once cooked and soft and tender,strain.In a pa add cocout oil followed by mustard,urad dal,red chilli,asafoetida and curry leaves.

Add cooked banana and salt.

Mix and toss well.

Serve hot with rice and any gravy like sambhar or rasam.

Notes

This recipe calls only to use coconut oil,so don't forget to add that.
This curry has minimum oil content and it needs o roasting.

PAPAYA BANANA OAT MILK SMOOTHIE/SUMMER RECIPES

2016-03-14T15:45:00.002+05:30

Papaya Banana Oat Milk Smoothie is a healthy and filling and tasty breakfast smoothie which is highly nutritious and filling.Whenever you happen to skip your usual breakfast,or don't have time to make,try this delicious smoothie and iam sure you will like it.I already have one papaya smoothie in my blog.This one has oats included in it and that makes it more like a hearty and fulfilling drink to kick start your day.I was making a few smoothie recipes and found this recipe while browsing through the net.Simple yet a delightful smoothie which is pure health in a glass.See down below for the recipe and try out this summer..

SUMMARY
Course:Smoothie
Serves:2
Preparation Time:10 minutes

INGREDIENTS

Papaya-1 cup(chopped)
Banana-2 small
Honey-2 tsp
Oats-4 tsp
Chilled Milk-2 cups

HOW TO MAKE

Chop papaya and banana and keep it ready.

Add honey and grind to a paste.

Add chilled milk and blend again.

Serve chilled and consume immediately.

Notes

Papaya and banana when blended tends to get thicker.So add more milk if required.
You can add cornflakes too in place of oats.
You can replace honey with sugar.

SWEET LIME JUICE/SUMMER DRINKS

2016-03-13T22:31:00.000+05:30

Summer season is here and it feels refreshing to drink any fruit juice,be it any time of the day.I have prepared a few juices,milkshakes to combat the heat ad it is really nice to see colourful juices made fresh at home.Sweet lime juice is a simple,yet tasty juice known to have many health benefits.It is filled with Vitamin C and has iron and pottasium content.When you are having common cold,this sweet lime proves to be beneficial.It is also given to patients who are deydrated and also to infants.It can be consumed at time of the day by all with full beefits.Over to the recipe of Sweet Lime Juice..

SUMMARY
Course:Juice,Drink
Serves;2
Preparation Time:10 minutes
INGREDIENTS

Sweet Lime-2
Water-1 cup
Ice Cubes -a few
Sugar-2 tsp
Black Salt-1/2 tsp
Lemon-1 tsp

HOW TO MAKE

Cut sweet lime into two.Peel the skin.

Cut the segments into two thereby removing seeds.Put them in a blender.

Add sugar and water.

Blend well.Sieve to get clear juice.

Press well to extract juice with the back of a spoon.Add lemon juice.

Add black salt and mix well.

Add ice cubes and serve immediately.

Notes

You can add honey in place of sugar.
You can add chaat masala in place of black salt.
While serving patients and infants avoid ice cubes.

UDIPI RASAM POWDER/KARNATAKA RECIPES

2016-03-12T23:40:00.001+05:30

Udipi is a small town in Karnataka which has unique and tasty cuisine of its own.I have always devoured the rasam or saru as it is called in Karnataka very much.The special ingredients added and the spices that are carefully roast and ground to perfection makes it very flafourful.During my visit to Mangalore and Udipi 2 years back i had the chance to eat at the mutt in the temple.I was impressed by the tatse of food served there.It was truly an enchanting experience to see the glory of the GOD KRISHNA and the food served there.Moving to the recipe ,it is a careful mixture of roast and ground spices that are easily available in our pantry.Let's move on with today's recipe..

SUMMARY
Course:Homemade powder for gravy called rasam for lunch
Cuisine:South Indian
Yields:100gms
Preparation Time:10 minutes
Cooking Time:10 minutes
Total Time:20 Minutes

INGREDIENTS

Coriander Seeds-1/4 cup
Jeera/Cumin-1 tbsp
Fenugreek Seeds-2 tsp
Urad Dal=1 tsp
Mustard-1 tsp
Red Chillies-8
Curry Leaves-2 sprigs

HOW TO MAKE

Take a pan and dry roast coriander seeds.Once slightly brown,take thwm out.Now dry roast jeera.

Now dry roast methi and take it out once it changes colour.Add now mustard and urad dal.After mustard crackles and dal turns brown,take them out.

Now it turn for red chillies and curry leaves.Roast them too.Allow all the ingregients to cool down.

Once cooled place them on a blender and grind coarsely.

Udipi Rasam Powder is ready.Store in air light bottle.

Notes

You can a teaspoon of peppercorns,if you want.
You can keep this in an air tight container for a month.
If you want to less spicy,cut down red chillies as per your taste.

PODI IDLI/KIDS RECIPES

2016-03-11T15:30:00.001+05:30

Podi Idli is a very easy recipe that can easily delight kids.It is nothing but small idlis smeared with molagai podi.I have added veggies too to make it healthier and more tastier.Although i make this regularly i realized i didn't have this in my blog.This one too was long pending to post in my draft and thought of posting it today.I also make podi dosa and podi uttappam.Those things will feature in the blog soon.Since it is steamed,you can be rest assured it will be healthy and with mild spices it will taste really good,specially for kids after school.Scroll down for an easy recipe of Podi Idli and let me know how it turned out..

SUMMARY
Course:Snacks
Cuisine:South Indian
Serves:1
Preparation Time:8 hours
Cooking Time:15 minutes
Total Time:8 hours 15 minutes

INGREDIENTS

Idli Batter-1 cup
Molaga Podi-1 tsp
Sesame Oil-1 tsp
Mustard-1/2 tsp
Urad Dal-1/2 tsp
Peanuts-1/2 tsp
Capsicum-1
Carrot(grated)-1/2
Salt-1/4 tsp
Curry Leaves-1 sprig
Coriander Leaves-a few

HOW TO MAKE

Mix well te idli batter.By smearing some oil on the idli moulds pour in the idli batter on to the mouds.

Steam the idlis for 10 minutes.Remove and cool them.

In a pan add oil followed by mustard,urad dal,peanuts and curry leaves.Once they cracle add chopped capsicum pieces.

Add now molaga podi and salt.Lastly add grated carrots.

Don't allow the carrots to cook.Garnish with coriander leaves.

Serve hot with your child's favourite drink.

Notes

You can add peas,chopped cabbage or cauliflower too.
You can also add bell peppers of any colour of your choice.
If you want more spicy add more molaga podi.

PEAS KOFTA/MATAR KOFTA CURRY/SIDE DISH FOR ROTI

2016-03-10T18:34:00.001+05:30

Koftas are small fried dumplings in any gravy which tastes heavenly with rotis,parathas or rice.I have tasted many types of koftas and this peas kofta curry happens to be my favourite.As it was peas season i had made this a while ago.Though the proceedure is lengthy iam afraid this one is worth a try.You can make lot of kofta recipes with many vegetables.I intend to post a few of them in the near future.This recipe was a contribution by me to a magazine which got publised last month.So let us for the time being this yummy recipe of Peas Kofta Curry..

SUMMARY
Course:Side Dish
Cuisine:North Indian
Serves:3
Preparation Time:15 minutes
Cooking Time:15 minutes
Total Time:30 minutes

INGREDIENTS
FOR THE KOFTA

Green Peas-1 cup
Green Chilli-2
Red Chilli Powder-1/2 tsp
Turmeric Powder-1/4 tsp
Garam Masala Powder-1/2 tsp
Salt-to taste
Oil-to deep fry
Corn Flour-1 tsp

FOR THE GRAVY

Onion-1
Tomato-2
Garam Masala Powder-1/2 tsp
Red Chilli Powder-1/2 tsp
Coriander Powder-1/2 tsp
Turmeric Powder-1/2 tsp
Oil-2 tsp
Jeera/Cumin-1/2 tsp
Coriander Leaves-for garnish

HOW TO MAKE

Grind in a mixer peas and chillies.If you want sprinkle some water.

Add red chilli powder,turmeric powder,garam masala powder and salt.Grind again.

Transfer the contents to a bowl.Add corn flour and mix well.Make small gooseberry sized balls and set them aside.

Heat oil in a pan and slowly drop in the kofta balls.Once golden brown take them out.

Place the koftas on absorbant paper.In a pan add oil and cumin seeds.Once tey cracckle add sliced onions.

Once they turn pink,add red chilli powder,turmeric powder,garam masala powder,coriander powder and salt.

Chop tomatoes and make puree out them with te help of a blender.

Add tomato puree to fried onions.Add water if required.

Once the mixture thickens add fried koftas.

Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.

Peas Kofta/Matar Kofta Curry is ready to be served with rotis or phulkas.

Notes

You can garnish with fresh cream on top.
If you want a richer taste grind 4 cashewnuts alongwith peas and chillies while grinding them.
You can also spinkle kasoori methi while switching off the stove.

VEG KADAI MASALA/REVIEW FOR EASTERN MASALA

2016-03-09T17:04:00.000+05:30

Veg Kadai Masala is a flavourful side dish for rotis or parathas and tastes equally good for pulaos as well.It has been a while that i wrote reviews for Eastern Spices and it was the last one pending in their list that i got.Yesterday on the occasion of woman's day i got an invite from Eastern Spices to attend an award function for inspirational woman organised by them.I got to meet many people and could hear so many inspirational stories.That reminded me i have write one more of the product review.So here comes the Veg Kadai Masala which was an easy one to make,since it was a ready made packet masala.I have also included another version if you don't happen to get this masala,but this was really awesome and the rotis i made with this vanished in no time..

SUMMARY
Course:Side Dish
Cuisine:North Indian
Serves:2
Preparation Time:15 minutes
Cooking Time:15 minutes
Total Time:30 minutes

INGREDIENTS

Potato-1
Onion-1
Capsicum-1
Carrot-1
Long Beans-6
Tomato-2
Green Peas-a handful
Oil-1 tbsp
Jeera/Cumin-1/2 tsp
Coriander powder-1/2 tsp
Turmeric Powder-1/2 tsp
Red Chilli Powder-1/2 tsp
Eastern Veg Kadai Masala Powder-1 tsp
Salt-to taste
Kasoori methi(crushed)-1/2 tsp
Coriander Leaves-a few

HOW TO MAKE

Chop the veggies in small pieces.In a kadai add oil and temper with jeera.

Add grated ginger and chopped onion.Once the onion has slightly browned add coriander powder,red chilli powder,turmeric powder and eastern veg kadai masala powder.

Add chopped tomato in a blender and make puree.

Add this puree to the onion masala mixture.Wait oil leaves sides.

Add rest of the vegetables now.Add water and allow it to cook till they are softened.

Add salt and crushed kasoori methi.Mix well.

Garnish with coriander leaves.

Serve hot with phulkas,rotis or rice.

Notes

If not using eastern veg kadai masala,then dry roast and prepare the masala given below.Rest follow the same proceedure.

For the masala

Coriander Seeds-1 tsp
Red Chilli-2
Cumin/Jeera-1/2 tsp
Garam masala-1/2 tsp
Fenugreek seeds/Methi-1/4 tsp
You can add capsicum of any colour of your choice.
If you want you can parboil the veggies and add to ensure fast cooking.

TAWA CHANNA

2016-03-08T22:07:00.001+05:30

Tawa Channa is a fulfilling,guilt free snack which can be had at any time of the day.I stumbled upon this recipe in Tarla Dalal website and was glad i did.It had an instant liking at home and was easy to make as well.This is less time consuming and when unexpected guests drop over treat them with this scumptious snack and iam confident they'll like it for sure.Whatever be the occasion,be it a party or any gathering this will assume a special place.I have tried it to eat for dinner as well and it was really very filling,yet light on the tummy.This is oil free and with a minimal of spices it is a healthy option to eat without much worries.Scroll down for an easy to make Tawa Channa recipe and do try it out..

SUMMARY
Course:Snack
Cuisine:North Indian
Serves:2
Preparation Time:8 hours
Cooking time:15 minutes
Total Time:8 hours 15 minutes

INGREDIENTS

Black Channa/Black Chick Peas-1 cup
Onion-1
Tomato-1
Ginger(grated)-1/4 tsp
Oil-1 tsp
Red Chilli Powder-1/2 tsp
Turmeric Powder-1/2 tsp
Garam Masala Powder-1/4 tsp
Chaat Masala Powder-1/4 tsp
Salt-to taste
Coriander Leaves-a few

HOW TO MAKE

Soak black channa overnight.Next day pressure cook with a little salt for 3 whistles.

In a tawa add oil followed by onions.Once the oions are slightly golden,add grated ginger.

Add chopped tomato.Now add red chilli powder,turmeric powder,garam masala powder,chaat masala powder and salt.Toss well.

Add cooked black channa now.Sprinkle some water so that all masalas mingle with each other.Add some freshly chopped coriander leaves.

Serve Tawa Channa hot directly from the tawa with crispy papdis.

Notes

You can squeeze some lime juice for tanginess.
You can add freshly chopped green chillies for more spice.
Add some black salt if you want to have extra chaaty feeling.

HOMEMADE PEANUT BUTTER

2016-03-07T23:45:00.002+05:30

It was my long wish to make Peanut Butter at home.I was always of the opinion that it would not turn out nice and i will ultimately end up wasting the ingredients used.But when i was a asked to write for Kungumam Thozhi Magazine last month for 30 various dal/legume variety dishes,i knew i have to try this.It is a lot cheaper and more healthier if you make it this way. I searched google for many recipes but ended up in this because of its simple and easy ingredients.And ofcourse it was quick to make too.It took less than 15 minutes for the whole process and when it was served with simple toasted bread,it felt heavenly.I had made only a small batch hesistating about the result but was soon seen making more in the kitchen as the jar was wiped clean by daughter dear.Want to learn how to make this?Scroll below and see..

SUMMARY
Course:Breakfast
Cuisine:American
Preparatio Time:10 minutes
Yields:200gms
Cooking Time :5 minutes
Total Time:15 minutes
INGREDIENTS

Peanuts-200gms
Salt-1/4 tsp
Honey-3 tbsp
Sunflower Oil-2 tbsp

HOW TO MAKE

In a pan dry roast the peanuts till they are slightly brown.

Once cooled down rub them with the help of your palms and phew their skins away and place them on a blender.

Grind it to a fine powder.Add salt.

Add honey followed by sunflower oil.

Grind again to mix all the ingredients well.After 5 minutes run te mixer again.Ensure that the mixer doesn't heat up.You can repeat the proceedure at regular intervals till creamy texture is obtained.

Homemade Peanut Butter is ready.Relish it with toasted bread or cut apple pieces.

Notes

You can add palm sugar or powdered jaggery in place of honey.
You can flavour it with chocolate powder for additional flavour.
You can use this for cakes,cup cakes and muffins,
This can be added to milkshakes as well.

TIFFIN SAMBHAR

2016-03-06T18:00:00.000+05:30

Tiffin Sambhar is a flavourful,aromatic and tasty side dish had with idli,dosa,vada,pongal and some such other tiffin varieties.I have made this hotel style and is made with mixed dals,both toor/pigeon pea lentil and moong/green gram dal.You can add made many veggies but i choose potato and carrot alongwith onion and tomato.Some people make this sambhar with only moong dal,but when you addtoor dal also it addsa nice colour and imparts thickness too.There are many variations of sambhar,but this is the method i follow and is liked by all at home.Do give it a try and let me know how it turned out..

SUMMARY
Course:Side Dish
Cuisine:South Indian
Serves:4
Preparation Time:30 minutes
Cooking Time:30 minutes
Total Time:1 hour

INGREDIENTS

Toor Dal-1/2 cup
Moong Dal-1/4 cup
Turmeric Powder-1/4 tsp
Water for cooking dal-2 cups
Water for adding to tamarind extract-1 1/2 cups
Tamarind-a gooseberry shaped ball
Carrot-1
Potato-1
Sambhar Onion/Shallots-8
Tomato-1
Sambhar Powder-1 tsp
Powdered Jaggery-1/2 tsp
Salt-to taste

TO ROAST AND GRIND

Coriander Seeds-4 tsp
Red Chilli-3
Channa Dal/Bengal Gram Dal-2 tsp
Pepper-1/2 tsp
Jeera/Cumin-1/2 tsp

FOR TEMPERING

Mustard-1/2 tsp
Methi/Fenugreek Seeds-1/2 tsp
Oil-1tsp
Asafoetida-1/4 tsp
Green Chilli-1

FOR GARNISHING

Curry Leaves-1 sprig
Coriander Leaves-a few

HOW TO MAKE

Dry roast the ingredients given in the to roast and grind table.Allow it to cool.

Grind coaresly.Soak tamarind in hot water.

Chop the veggies in cubes.Peel sambhar onions.In a heavy bottomed vessel add the ingredients given in to temper table.

Once the mustard has crackled add onions and chopped tomato.Once the onions are oink and tomato cooked half way add cubed potato and carrot pieces.

Add tamarind extract and sambhar powder.

Allow it to boil for some time.Add salt and once the veggies are cooked add freshly ground masala.

Cook tur and moong dal in water with turmeric powder till mushy.Add it to the boiling mixture.

After the dal is completely mixed add powdered jaggery.

Garnish with curry and coriander leaves.

Tiffin Sambhar is ready to be served with Idli,Dosa,Pongal or Vada.

Notes

You can use beans,yellow pumpkin or radish too along with these veggies.
I have added sambhar powder also alog with roasted and ground powder,but if you want less spicy avoid adding sambhar powder.
Adding jaggery enhances the taste of the sambhar.

SET DOSA/DOSA VARIETIES/KARNATAKA RECIPES

2016-03-05T11:32:00.002+05:30

Set Dosa is nothing but Dosa with poha or flattenened rice,raw rice and urad dal carefully ground into a smooth mixture which when poured is slightly thick than the usual dosas and served in stacks of two or three.The dosa is super spongy and fluffy and is highly filling yet light on the stomach.I have tried thiis dosa many a times here in Bangalore whenever i get a chance to eat out.It is served with Vegetable Sagu and Coconut Chutney.You can prepare this dosa with the normal dosa batter too,but you won't get the fluffy or spongy texture which is so important for the set dosa.So with a little variartion in the batter,try out this exotic dosa variety for a sunday brunch as a weekday breakfast.

SUMMARY
Course:Breakfast
Cuisine:South Indian,Karnataka
Serves:4
Preparation Time:8 hrs
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time:8 hrs 20 minutes

INGREDIENTS

Par boiled Rice- 1 cup
Urad Dal-2 tbsp
Poha/Aval/Flattened Rice-1/4 cup
Methi Seeds/Fenugreek-1/4 tsp
Salt-As per taste
Water-2 cups for soaking
Water-3/4 cup for grinding
Oil-as per requirement

HOW TO MAKE

Soak rice and urad dal with methi in water for 4 hours.Soak poha for half an hour.Make sure to rinse rice and urad dal mixture and poha for atleast 2 times before soaking.This will ensure a white batter.After the said time place them in a blender along with fenugreek seeds.

By adding water grind it to a smooth paste.Add salt and mix well.

The batter is ready.Allow it to ferment for 8 hours.If you live in a clod place,it might a little longer.

Once the batter is fermented it is ready for use.In a tawa add oil and pour batter slightly thick.You may not need it to spread out as your regular dosa.Close it with a lid,if you want,i do it o ensure uniform cooking.

Turn it to the other side and cook till brown.

Your set dosa is ready.Make 2 or 3 dosas and serve in stacks.Serve it with vegetable sagu and coconut chutney.

Notes

You might add baking soda for more sponginess.
Addition of a half teaspoon of sugar makes the dosa golden brown.
You can also serve this with sambhar or any chutney of your choice.
Allow the batter to ferment nicely so that when you poer them instantly bubbles are formed on top.

DARBARI DAL/SIDE DISH FOR ROTIS

2016-03-04T19:59:00.000+05:30

I was on a long break from this blogging world and now I'm back with a bang.Sorry to be away for this long,but due to some personal commitments,I could not post for quite sometime.I made this Darbari Dal for the Kungumam Thozhi Magazine last month.Needless to say it was creamy,filling and mildly spiced which was loved by all at home.This has a combination of massor dal and moong dal which adds a special creamy texture to the dal.It is different from the usual dals and can be made as a change from the usual sides we make for rotis or parathas.When you are in the mood for a hearty yet easy meal, try this dal and let me know..

SUMMARY
Course:Side Dish
Cuisine:North Indian
Serves-2
Preparation Time:20 minutes
Cooking Time:10 minutes
Total time:30 minutes

INGREDIENTS

Masoor Dal-1/4 cup
Moong Dal-1/4 cup
Tomato-1
Onion-1
Jeera/Cumin-1/2 tsp
Oil-2 tsp
Butter-1 tsp
Green Chilli-1
Red Chilli Powder-1/2 tsp
Turmeric Powder Powder-1/2 tsp
Garam Masala Powder-1/4 tsp
Salt-to taste
Kasoori Methi-1/2 tsp
Coriander Leaves-2 tsp(chopped)
Fresh Cream-1 tsp

HOW TO MAKE

Soak masoor and moong dals seperately in water for 15 minutes.Pressure cook for 3 whistles,mash and keep aside.

Add oil,butter,jeera,green chilli and ginger bit in a pan.Once the butter melts add chopped onion.Fry till translucent.

Add chopped tomato followed by red chilli powder,turmeric powder,garam masala powder and salt.Cook till mushy.

Add cooked dals and mix well.

Add crushed kasoori methi and fresh cream.

Add coriander leaves for garnishing.

Enjoy Darbari Dal with rotis or rice.

Notes

You can add ginger garlic paste for more taste.
You can add thick yogurt in place of fresh cream.
Addition of butter enhances the taste,so don't skip that.
If you want you can add fresh peas and chopped carrots too.

SOYA 65/SOYA RECIPES

2016-01-07T21:23:00.001+05:30

It was a long time back that my recipe Soya65 got published in Kungumam Thozhi May last year.I have made this recipe a couple of times as daughter likes soya products and iam to make it as it is healthy too.Though i have a Paneer 65 recipe iam posting this since this is a little different from the Paneer65 recipe.It is quite a tasty and crispy one with soft in the middle and kids would surely love this for sure.

SUMMARY
Course:Snacks
Cuisine:Indian
Serves:2
Preparation Time:10
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time:25 minutes

INGREDIENTS

Soya Chunks-1 cup
Maida-1/2 cup
Corn Flour-3 tsp
Grated Ginger-1/2 tsp
Crushed Garlic-1/2 tsp
Red Chilli Powder-1/2 tsp
Garam Masala Powder-1/2 tsp
Chaat Masala Powder-1/2 tsp
Salt-to taste
Green Chilli-1
Curd-1/4 cup
Curry Leaves-a few
Oil-for deep frying+for frying sauteeing the soya chunks

HOW TO MAKE

Boil soya chunks in water and once it gets soft and cooked strain and keep aside for later use.

Grate ginger and crush garlic.In a bowl add maida,corn flour, half the quantity of red chilli powder,garam masala powder,grated ginger.crushed garlic and salt.

Add water and make a batter with little water.The batter should be like neither too thin nor too thick.Add now cooked soya chunks.Coat them well in the batter.

In a pan of hot oil fry in batches coated soya chunks.Wait till they turn golden brown.

Take them on a tissue paper.In a pan add oil followed bygrated ginger and crushed garlic.Also add green chilly and curry leaves.

Add red chilly powder,garam masala powder,chaat masala powder and salt..Add curd.

Mix well till moisture is absorbed and oil leaves the sides of the pan.

Add fried soya chunks and toss well.

Soya 65 is ready to be served.Serve it as a snack or as a starter to grace any occasion.

If you want a chinese twist add in the last half a teaspoon of soya sauce.
Adding jeera powder also enhances the taste.
Chilli powder can be substituted for pepper powder.

DAHI PURI/CHAAT RECIPES

2016-01-06T21:57:00.001+05:30

It was a long time that I posted some chaat recipe.As Dhivya is fond of chaats I make these once in a fortnight.As it was a week before I made this and it was due in my list to post.Dahi based chaats are always refreshing and filling too and specially when you have friends coming over,this turns out to be a hit.As a part of New Year Celebrations last week,my daughter invited her friends over and this was one among the menu.I always keep the initial preparations done before and when that is done,rest is just a breeze.I have a few chaat recipes in my blog,but this is the first one which is cold chaat, meaning the one with curd.As chaats are loved by all,iam afraid this will be liked by everyone and do give it a try and let me know..

SUMMARY
Course:Snack
Cuisine:North Indian
Serves:2
Preparation Time:20 minutes
Cooking Time:10 minutes
Total Time:30 minutes

INGREDIENTS

Puri	8
Thick Curd	1/2 cup
Sev	1/4 cup
Boiled Potatoes	1/4 cup
Boiled Green Gram Dal	1/4 cup
Onion	1
Green Chutney	2 tsp
Sweet Chutney	2 tsp
Red Chilli Powder	1/2 tsp
Turmeric Powder	1/4 tsp
Cumin Powder	1/2 tsp
Chaat Masala Powder	1/2 tsp
Salt	to taste
Sugar	1/2 tsp
Coriander Leaves	a few

HOW TO MAKE

Mash Potatoes and add red chilli powder,cumin powder,turmeric powder and salt.Mix well and keep ready for future use.Mix sugar and salt with curd and keep it ready.Crack each puri carefully and arrange them on a plate.

Add mashed potato mixture and boiled green gram dhal in the holes of the cracked puris.

Add curd followed by green and sweet chutneys.

Add red chilli powder,chaat masala powder and salt.Add sev on top.

Add chopped coriander leaves.

Serve Dahi Puri immediately.

Notes

Serve puris immediately as soon as you have made this chaat,otherwise it will turn soggy.
You can make the chutneys a day before to save preparation time.
You can add sprouted moong also.
Black channa can be cooked and substituted for green gram dal.

SPRING ONION SOUP/SOUP VARIETIES

2016-01-05T19:28:00.001+05:30

Come winters,it is always comforting to grab a bowl of soup.I made this delectable Spring Onion Soup last weekend for dinner and all enjoyed it to the core.Though soups can be had any time of the day,i like to have it just before dinner.This recipe is adapted from Sanjeev Kapoor's website and i was quite impressed by the recipe,since it was simple and quick to make.I have a few soup recipes but this one is different,as i didn't know such a soup existed.I thought of spring onion as a garnishing green or perhaps used in a subzi or paratha.See down below how i made this..

SUMMARY
Course:Appetizer
Cuisine:Asian
Serves:3
Cooking Time:20 minutes

INGREDIENTS

Spring Onion	1 bunch
Onion	1
Potato	1
Garlic	1 pod
Butter	1 tsp
Oil	1/2 tsp
Pepper Powder	1 tsp
Lemon Juice	1/2 tsp
Salt	to taste

HOW TO MAKE

In a pan add butter,oil and crushed garlic.

Add now white and green part of chopped spring onion.

Add chopped onion and potato now.Fry till it emits a nice aroma.

Add water and cooked till potato is soft.

Once cooled transfer into a blender and puree it.

Transfer it to a pan and add water of desired consistency.

Add salt, pepper powder lemon juice.

Garnish with freshly chopped spring onions.

Enjoy this soup with hot buns.

Notes

You can top the soup with fresh cream.
Adding butter gives a tasty twist to the soup.
You can add ginger also at the time of blending.

NELLIKAI SADAM/AMLA RICE

2016-01-04T18:53:00.000+05:30

Nellikai is Gooseberry in english and Amla in hindi.I recently saw in a magazine this simple and awesome rice recipe and soon gave it a try,This amla is loaded with Vitamin C and has many medicinal properties.It buds immunity and strengthens bones.As we all kow amla was widely used in the making of various ayurvedic preparations and so it is apltly termed as wonder berry.My daughter loves arinellikai which is much smaller in size and tangy to taste. I made this for her lunch and she liked it a lot.A truly filling way with o compromise on health.I have a pickle recipe with amla and iam with you to share this amla recipe too.Scroll down for an easy and quick fix lunch box recipe..

SUMMARY
Course:Lunch
Cuisine:South Indian
Serves :2
Cooking Time-20 minutes

INGREDIENTS

Cooked Rice	1 cup
Gooseberry	2
Mustard	1/2 tsp
Urad Dal	1/2 tsp
Channa Dal	1/2 tsp
Groundnut	1 tsp
Green Chilli	2
Salt	to tatse
SesameOil	3 tsp
Curry Leaves	1 sprig
Lemon Juice	1/2 tsp

HOW TO MAKE

In a pan add sesame oil and add mustard,urad dal and channa dal to splutter.Add groundnuts,curry leaves and chopped green chillies.

Grate amla and add to the pan.

Mix well and add salt and lemon juice.

After a while add cooked rice and mix it well.

Nellikai Sadam/Amla Rice is ready.Serve with raita,chips,curry or papad.

Notes

Use sesame oil for better taste.
After adding grated amla,don't cook for long.
You can add chilli paste also.
If you like to make it richer add cashews.

HOMEMADE HUMMUS

2016-01-03T22:31:00.000+05:30

It was for a long time that I wanted to post this Hummus recipe.Hummus is an egyptian dip or spread made from chickpeas,tahini,garlic and spices.It is an ancient food dip made in olden times dating back to many years and it has its own variations.I wanted to post it with a little homemade style recipe and was somewhat successful too since daughter dear raised her thumbs up.I also learnt that it is made in some countries like Lebanon,Morocco etc.Did you people know that there is one annual event celebrated on third thursday every year?Sounds really intresting to me.This protein filled aromatic dip makes the dish which is eaten with it more tastier and more craved for.As a matter of fact this was throughly enjoyed by all at home.I first heard of this recipe from TLC TV channel and saw it in one of their shows.Now over to the recipe..

SUMMARY
Course:Side or Dip
Cuisine:Middle East
Serves:4
Total Time:10 minutes

INGREDIENTS

White Ckickpeas	1 cup
White Sesame	1/3 cup
Garlic	2 cloves
Red Chilli Powder	1/2 tsp
Black Pepper Powder	1/2 tsp
Hung Curd	3 tsp
Salt	to taste
Olive Oil	2 tsp
Coriander/Parsely Leaves	a few

HOW TO MAKE

Soak chickpeas overnight.Pressure cook for 3 whistles next day.

Dry roast white sesame till they change colour and emit an aroma.

Once cooled powder the white sesame in a blender.

Add now in the blender boiled chickpeas,garlic,red chilli powder,pepper powder,sesame seeds,salt,olive oil and a few coriander leaves.

Grid to a smooth paste.Add hung curd and grind again.

Tasty and healthy Homemade Hummus is ready.We enjoyed with Nachos Chips.

Notes

You can have hummus with finely sliced fresh veggies.
You can add vinegar or half a lemon juice for more tanginess.
You can avoid hung curd,but it gives a creamy texture.
Basically tahini is added,but i have added regular sesame seeds.

BROCCOLI PASTA/PASTA RECIPES

2016-01-01T22:05:00.001+05:30

Broccoli is a cousin of cauliflower which has absolute no taste of its own and so kids hate it.But broccoli has innumerable health benefits and is an excellent source of Vitamin C.It reduces the obesity and decreases the risk of heart disease and has been associated with lowering the rates of colon cancer.So wheever I get a chance,I buy this flower and try to icorporate in the meal.As I was searching for some fancy recipe to attract kiddos and also wanted to make a simple dish I stumbled upon this recipe.It is very easy and the ingredients are very few and which can be made well under 15 minutes.My daughter loved the colour,texture and ofcourse the taste.The Joys of feeding is truly remarkable!.Over to the flavouful recipe of Broccoli Pasta..

SUMMARY
Course:Main Course or an after school snack
Cuisine:Italian
Serves:2
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time:10 minutes
TotalTime:15 minutes

INGREDIENTS

Pasta	1 cup
Broccoli	1/4
Carrot	1
Onion	1
Red Chilli Powder	1/2 tsp
Turmeric Powder	1/4 tsp
Soya Sauce	1/2 tsp
Butter	1 tsp
Oil	1 tsp
Salt	to taste
Mixed Herbs	1/2 tsp

HOW TO MAKE

Take brocolli and cut in to small pieces and put it hot water and take out.In a pan add oil and butter.Boil pasta and strain for later use.

In a pan add oil and butter.Add red chilli powder and turmeric powder.

Add chopped onion and fry till pink.

Add chopped carrot and broccoli and add some water to get cooked.Add soya sauce and salt.

Add cooked pasta and mixed herbs.Mix well.

Serve hot and enjoy.

Notes

You can add grated cheese for more taste.
Similarly you can add peas sweet corn and tomatoes along with broccoli.
If you have fresh or dried basil add that too for that extra flavour.

KALA JAMUN

2015-12-31T22:06:00.000+05:30

It was sometime back that I made these cute Kala Jamuns.I have already in my blog,one recipe each for Khova Jamun and Dry Jamun,but this one is special and apt to post for the new year.This has a nut stuffing inside each of the balls which makes it rich and flavourful.Last year was special to me with few of recipes getting published in various magazines and newspapers.I also gained more viewership and my bloggotnoticed.I thank my readers for that and request you all to have continied support I the near future.As the year gets to a close and new year fast approaching I wish all my readers a Very Happy New Year 2016

SUMMARY

Course:Dessert
Cuisine:Indian
Serves:4-5
Preparation Time:10 minutes
Cooking Time:10 minutes
Total Time:20 minutes

INGREDIENTS

Khova	1 cup
Maida	1/4 cup
Chopped Nuts*	1/3 cup
Sugar	1 cup+ 1 tsp
Water	1 1/2 cup
Food Colour(green)	a pinch
Cardamon Powder	1/4 tsp
Oil	to deep fry
Sodium Bi-carbonate	a pinch

*I used chopped badam and pista

HOW TO MAKE

Take khoya,maida,sodium-bi-carbonate and a teaspoon of sugar in a bowl.Knead to a soft dough by adding milk and water.

Take a small portion of the dough and add chopped nuts and green food colour and mix.This forms the stuffing.

From the remaining dough make balls.Make small balls out of the nut mixture too and place it inside the plain dough.

Close the dough,keeping in mind to fill the stuffing inside.Make all balls like this.

Heat oil in a kadai and slowly drop in the balls and take out when it attains a dark colour.

Take them out on a tisue.In a pan make a syrup with sugar and water.Add also cardamom powder.

When the sugar reaches half string consistency,switch off the flame and add fried jamuns.Soak for an hour.

Take them out and arrange on a plate.

Serve it with finely chopped nuts on top.

Notes

You can add cashews and raisins as a filling.
You can add any food colour.
You can top it with dessicated coconut also.

LEMON CORIANDER SOUP/SOUP VARIETIES

2015-12-30T21:56:00.001+05:30

Lemon Coriander Soup is a most wanted recipe to post on my blog.And when recently when i happened to taste this on my friend's house,i knew this is time is the time for me to try out this at home.Ravi always likes to have something hot just before weekend brunch,so this time i didn't want to miss the oppurtunity to try out.Lemon coriander soup is a light and clear soup and with the aromatic mixture of lemon and fresh earthy flavour of coriander leaves,it gets even better.As you can see it is easy and heart warming recipe.I decided i will make this often.So let us see how i made this wonderful soup..

SUMMARY

Course:Appetizer

Cuisine:Indo-Chinese

Serves:2

Preparation Time:10 minutes

Cooking Time:10 minutes

Total Time:20minutes INGREDIENTS

Baby Corn	3
Corn Kernels	3 tsp
Beans	4
Cabbage	4 tsp
Carrot	1/4
Peas	3 tsp
Capsicum	a bit
Lemon Zest	of a lemon
Lemon Juice	2 tsp
Coriander leaves	1/2 bunch
Salt	to taste
Pepper	to taste
Water	I cup

HOW TO MAKE

Chop coriander leaves alongwith stem reserving a small portion for garnishing.Peel the skin of the lemon.Boil water and add lemon zest and coriander.Strain it and discard the coriander and lemon zest.

Keep the strained liquid for later use.Meawhile chop all the veggies finely.

Boil water and add vegetables and once they are cooked add the lemon zest coriander water.

Add pepper powder and lemon juice.

Add chopped coriander leaves for garnish.

Serve hot immediately.

Notes

You can add all the veggies mentioned or omit some as per your liking.
Adding lemon zest gives unique taste but don't boil it too muchas it may turn the soup bitter.
As this is a no oil soup,you can have it heartily.

SCHEZWAN DOSA/DOSA VARIETIES

2015-12-29T21:13:00.003+05:30

One of the common features at home is what to make for dinner?In my house each one has a different taste and it is sometimes difficult for me to make ad satisfy all.Some of the times i make a variation and add or omit certain things and adjust as per their liking.Dosa is one such recipe.It is loved by all,But to serve the same way each time is boring ad monotonous.To break that i make various stuffing in dosa ad this one was made when my daughter wanted a fusion dinner.Making dosa the same way but with a chinese stuffing.I had planned a noodle dosa but ended up with schezwan dosa,will post that in the near future the recipeof noodle dosa too.So when your kids insist you to make something for a change,try Schezwan Dosa,they will love this for sure.Here comes the delicious Schezwan Dosa..

SUMMARY

Course:Breakfast

Cuisine:Indo-chinese

Serves:3 Total Time-10 minutes

INGREDIENTS

Dosa Batter	1 cup
Schezwan Sauce	3tsp
Garlic(grated)	1/2 tsp
Black Pepper Powder	1/2 tsp
Onion	1
Capsicum	1
Beans	6
Carrot	1
Cabbage(shredded)	1/4 cup
Oil	as needed
Salt	to taste

HOW TO MAKE

Take a pan and add oil.Chop all the veggies in juillenes.

Add onion and fry till pink.Add rest of the veggies and sprinkle some water and wait till it is cooked.

Once cooked add black pepper powder and salt.Add now schezwan sauce.

Once the flavours get amalgamated switch off the flame.Veggie mixture is ready.Take a dosa tawa and spread oil evenly on it.Make a thin dosa.

Apply schezwan sauce on the dosa.Now spread the vegetable mixture evenly on the dosa.

Fold the dosa as shown.Cut into diagonal pieces with the help of a knife.

Serve Schezwan Dosa with tomato sauce and coconut chutney.

Notes

If you don't wat the dosa too spicy don't apply schezwan sauce on top of dosa.As we have added in the curry,less spicy liking people can follow this.
You can add spring onions both green and white part to the veggies for more flavour.You can add a bit of soya sauce for a more chinese flavour.
You can serve this as an after school snack for kids.

BADAM KHEER

2015-12-28T21:26:00.000+05:30

Badam Kheer is a nutty flavourful milk based kheer with the goodness of almonds.It is a very easy and rich dessert with minimal ingredients and which requires a little time to brighten your celebrations.I made this last month during my MIL's birthday and it was a hit.She was happy and thoroughly enjoyed it to the core.It has been a long time that i posted some sweet recipe and here comes this which can be a beautiful oppurtunity to surprise your loves ones.Though you don't need an excuse to make this,surely it will be a highlight if you could make this on any special occasion.Scroll below for a quick version of an excellent kheer recipe.

SUMMARY
Course:Desserts
Cuisine:Indian
Serves:2
Preparation Time-5 minutes
Cooking Time:15 minutes
Total Time:20 minutes

INGREDIENTS

Badam/Almonds	1/4 cup
Milk	3/4 litre
Saffron	2 pinches
Sugar	4 tsp
Condensed Milk(optional)	1/4 cup

HOW TO MAKE

Add badam to boiling water.This way you can peel their skins easily.

Place the badams in the blender and grind it to a smooth paste.

Soak saffron strands in little milk.Boil milk and add sugar and the badam paste.

Add soaked badam strands along with milk.Boil till it becomes thick and creamy.If adding condensed milk add at this stage.

Once the milk has reduced to half and reaches desired consistency,switch off the flame.Serve it hot or cold as per your liking.

Notes

You can add cardamom powder also for enhancing the flavour.
Use full cream milk for thick and rich taste.
For more nutty taste reserve a few badams and chop them to add on top just before serving.

HOT CHOCOLATE DRINK MIX/BEVARAGES

2015-12-14T21:11:00.000+05:30

All are fond of Hot Chocolate at home.The temperature has done down here and it is always comforting to have a hot cup of chocolate anytime for any age group people.I made a fresh batch of Hot Chocolate Drink Mix yesterday and it was a huge hit home.People who are in the habit of drinking coffee will surely like this as this has the sweet taste of milk from the milk powder and slight bitterness from the cocoa powder.I searched for the recipe in the internet and found it quite interesting and sounded tasty and immediately started making it.This is a filling and creamy drink and kids will enjoy it to the core.People who like to gift for some occasion such as Christmas or New Year can easily make this and gift pack for their friends.Sounds like a nice edible gift right? This can be kept for at least 6 months if stored with proper care.So what are you waiting for?Start making your fresh batch of Hot Chocolate Drink Mix and make it and let me know..

SUMMARY
Course:Drink
Cuisine:American
Serves:10
Preparation Time:5 minutes
Cooking Time:5 minutes
Total Time:1o minutes

INGREDIENTS

Milk Powder/Dairy Whitener	2 cups
Cocoa Powder	1 cup
Sugar (Powdered)	1 cup
Choco Chips	3/4 cup
Cinnamon powder	1/4 tsp(optional)

HOW TO MAKE

Take sugar in the blender and powder it.

Add cocoa powder milk powder and cinnamon powder and run the mixer again.

Add choco chips and blend once again to a smooth powder.

Hot Chocolate Drink Mix is ready.Enjoy mixing this mix with hot water or if you want it richer with hot milk.

Notes

You can store it in an air tight container and keep for 6 months.
You can use any milk powder and cocoa powder of your liking.
You can also add dry vanilla extract in place of cinnamon.
After preparing hot chocolate you could top it with marshmallows for additional taste.
Also fresh whipped cream can be topped.
You can also use white chocolate chips.