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Mango Lassi

2011-08-10T05:33:00.000-07:00

Mango Lassi is rich in taste and refreshing Indian Mango drink. Here is a simple mango lassi recipe for you.Mango lassi is easy to make, rich, traditional and popular drink of India. Traditional Indian lassi can be salted lassi or sweet lassi. Mango lassi recipe is a boon for those people, who are mango lovers. How to make a mango lassi is not a hard job.If you have not tasted mango lassi yet then surely once you experience the flavor of mango lassi recipe, you will get hooked to its sweet taste, smoothness and creamy richness.

Once mango lassi goes down to your throat, you will feel that this mango drink is very refreshing and also good for your health.

Wish to learn how to make a mango lassi recipe? Following are mango lassi ingredients:

Mango Lassi Ingredients

1 to 2 cups Mango pulp
1 cup thick yogurt (low fat curd)
Honey or sugar to taste
Crushed ice or ice cube
pinch of cardamom powder for extra flavor

Mango Lassi Recipe Method

Peel the mango and cut it to small pieces to make mango pulp.
Combine all mango lassi ingredients and mix until it gets smooth and fine in a blender.
Add some cardamom powder to make a chunkier mango lassi,
Garnish with fresh fruits of your choice and enjoy.
Pour in glasses and serve the delicious mango lassi.

Adjust the mango lassi ingredients as per your taste, if you have a swwet tooth, then for extra sweetness you can add more mango pulp or a scoop full of sugar. You can also freeze this prepared mango lassi in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving.

Mango Lassi Tips

You can make mango lassi in several ways. You can add salt instead of sugar if you prefer a salted lassi.
Buttermilk can also be used instead of yogurt to alter the taste.
The more you add the Mango pulp, more it add a wonderful color to your mango Lassi too.
Refrigerating Mango Lassi for few hours is a good idea. It can be topped with some mango puree or with some chopped mango pieces before serving.
You can also add a teaspoon of fresh lime juice to have a tangy taste.

This is a perfect mango lassi recipe for the summer. Served in a glass with a straw, with nuts sprinkled on top gives your mango lassi a great look.

10-acts-that-will-weaken-or-break-your-fast

2011-08-05T02:20:00.000-07:00

Assalamu Alaikum to all my readers! We are here at the time of the year when blessings are at the highest! It is the blessed month of Ramadan where Muslims fast through sunrise and sunset! We starve ourselves for the sake of Allah and the fear we hold for him. If you do not know what I mean when Muslims fast, please check the article, ‘Why Muslims Fast during the Blessed Month of Ramadan’ to know more! However, do we all fast correctly according to the way our prophet Muhammad (PBUH) had kept it?

Unfortunately, many of today’s Muslims think that fasting is to do with just turning away from food. This is not the case! As we mentioned in the other article, fasting isn’t only to do with food. Fasting is when your whole body is controlled! There are a number of Muslims out there who break their fast and weaken it in many ways. I can also admit that at times, I feel as if my fast isn’t 100% pure and I am show you feel that way as well! There are two articles giving you a total of 10 acts that will weaken or even break your fast. This article has 5 so please do not be discouraged. The second part contains the other 5 acts so please check that out! Enjoy and please comment and ask questions for others to answer!

10 acts that will weaken or break your fast!

Using Foul Languages:

Your mouth should not be used for eating or swearing and arguing. It is very easy for two people to start a series of arguments and fights particularly in Ramadan when they abstain from food. We all do get a little grumpy when were hungry! Using foul language with your mouth will surely weaken your fast so let us all use our mouth the correct way!

Looking at things that will disappoint Allah:

During Ramadan, we should all abstain from looking at things that are impure and forbidden in Islam such as nudity and dancing! We should keep our eye sights at things that would do no harm! So let use our eyes the correct way!

Listening to Music:

This is one common reason how people weaken their fast. They tend to listen to music even though they are fasting. Many of us cannot withstand without music in our lives. Of course, music is one of the most popular things you can listen to! We all love it but Islam forbids music and we have to just live with that! Let us all turn away from music and come towards Allah! Ameen!

Keeping yourself away from harmful places:

Everywhere you go, you may find the odd couple of people getting themselves into trouble by fighting. It happens anywhere you go. Even though a lot of Muslims fight, it seems like they cannot stop them self from harming another! When a person is hungry, he can also be very grumpy which could trigger an argument or a fight. However, in Ramadan, it’s nearly all of us which means that the chances are even greater! We should also stay away from haram places like pubs and clubs where you might do more harm to yourself, others and your fast! Let us use our hands and legs the correct way!

Think with a positive mind:

The hunger that we keep in our self for a full day can also affect our mind. This means that along with our mind, we could get a little angry for over a small situation or problem. This is why we should keep our minds calm and relaxed even though it can be a little hard! Let us use our minds the correct way!

Conclusion:

So here you have 5 acts how someone might weaken or break their fast! But I did promise 10! Please click through the link to take you to the second part of the article which includes the other more advanced 5 acts that many of you might not know about:

Brushing your teeth with toothpaste:

There is no guarantee that your fast will break if you brush your teeth with toothpaste as some of the flavour may still be inside your mouth. The chances of you swallowing the flavour mixed with saliva are great which means that your fast will break. You have a few options you can take.

1) Brush your teeth with toothpaste before sunrise

2) Don’t brush your teeth at all

3) Brush without using any toothpaste

Having intercourse:

To your surprise, having intercourse while fasting will also break your fast. If you and your wife ever want to have intercourse, it is best to have it before sunrise or after sunset! For men who have wet dreams in the mornings, it is advised to clean yourself by having a bath or a shower.

Vomiting intentionally:

Sometimes, fasting can make one feel very ill. Those who fast and vomit unintentionally, their fast remains so please don’t go eating your dinner thinking that your fast is broken.

Eating something not classified as food:

This might be a little stupid but if you see anyone eating anything that isn’t classified as food, please tell him/her that their fast is broken. There might be some people that think they can escape all this by taking an action like this.

Smoking or inhaling other people’s smoke:

As I mentioned before, the mouth is fasting along with the rest of your body. So you should stay away from smoking cigarettes. Please be aware that your fast might break if you inhale someone else’s smoke. Make sure you tell that person to go outside or else it will affect the fast of those around you as well.

Chicken Samosa

2011-08-03T05:34:00.000-07:00

In Burmese, they are called samusa and are an extremely popular snack in Burma. Samosas are a staple of local cuisine in the Horn of Africa and Ethiopia, where they are known as sambusa. They are usually reserved for special occasions such as Ramadan, Meskel or Christmas.

The word "Samosa" pronounced "sa'mousa" is used in Bengali, South Asia, Punjabi: smosa, Gujarati: sumosa, Hindi: samosa. It generally consists of a fried or baked triangular pastry shell with a savory filling which may include spiced potatoes, peas, onions, coriander or ground beef, or chicken. The size and shape of a samosa as well as the consistency of the pastry used can vary. Samosas are often served with tamarind chutney or curd.

Different regions have different ways of preparing this samosa are below :

South Asia: The North Indian and Pakistani samosa contains a maida all purpose flour shell stuffed with a mixture of mashed boiled potato, onion, spices, green peas, green chili. The entire pastry is then deep fried
until golden brown color, in vegetable oil. It is served hot with Indian chutney such as tamarind or mint, coriander. Samosas are often served in chaat, along with the yogurt, chopped onions and coriander, chaat masala and chutney.

In Hyderabad, India and Andhra Pradesh, a smaller version of the samosa with a thicker pastry crust and mince-meat filling referred to as "Lukhmi" is eaten, as is another variation with onion fillings called an onion samosa.

Lusophone World : In Goa and Portugal, samosas are called as chamucas, usually filled with chicken, pork, beef or vegetables and they are hot. They are an integral part of Goan cuisine and Portuguese cuisine.

Anglophone World : Samosas have become popular in the United Kingdom, Kenya, south Africa, Canada and in the United States. In Canada, the United Kingdom and the United States frozen samosas are increasingly available in grocery stores.

Ingredients :

- 1 lb boneless chicken

- 1 tsp coriander powder

- 1 tsp red chili powder

- 1 chopped onion

- 4 tbs ginger paste

- 5 tbs garlic paste

- 4 chopped green chillies

- 1 egg (optional)

- few chopped coriander leaves

- salt to taste

- oil for frying

For Samosa Pastry :

- 2 cups maida flour (all purpose flour)

- 1/2 cup water

- salt to taste

Preparation :

For Chicken Samosa Stuffing

1) Wash, clean and chop the chicken into small pieces.

2) Marinate chicken with all ingredients except egg and keep aside for about an hour.

3) Grind the marinated chicken in the mixer grinder.

4) Heat oil and fry the marinated chicken till well cooked and brown.

5) cool and use as stuffing for samosas.

For samosa pastry :

1) To make maida chapathis. Mix half cup water with 2 cups maida (All purpose) flour.

2) Knead the flour into soft dough( use more water if needed).

3) Take a small part from the dough, roll it between the palms and make a ball.

4) Press this maida ball flat on a hard surface and spread it wider with the helping of a rolling pin into a moon shape.

5) Cut into two halves . Join and press together to make a cone.

6) Place a tbs of chicken filling in the cone and seal the third side using the moist finger.

7) Repeat this process with other halves of the chapathis.

8) Heat oil in a kadai, deep fry the samosa's one by one until golden brown over medium heat.

9) Serve hot samosa with chutney or tomato sauce.

Ramadan: The Greatness of Fasting

2011-08-01T07:48:00.000-07:00

1. BREAK FROM BUSY LIFESTYLES

Fasting, as prescribed for the month of Ramadan, is a break from our usual hectic routines, often full of worldly concerns & issues. Ramadan offers us a more spiritual approach & a retreat from our excessive lifestyles, enabling us to focus more towards our religious duties & the improvement of our character.

2. FOOD CONTROL

Abstinence from food & drink allows the gastro-intestinal system to rest & recover from the usual intake of food, due to the fact that fasting helps us control what we eat/drink.

Science proves that fasting allows the body to ‘detox’, meaning to flush out toxic substances built throughout the previous months. It also improves stamina, circulation and strength.

In addition, it promotes clearer skin and whiter eyes as the body feels healthier & less contaminated while fasting.

3. OVERCOMING BAD HABITS

Fasting rapidly decreases cravings for nicotine, caffeine and other drugs. Through helping us to learn abstinence and self-control, fasting has helped many people give up their addiction to smoking & other related habits.

It also provides us with the opportunity to give up habits such as lying, backbiting, gossiping etc. as we know that during this month, our fasts are not complete if we do not abstain from such evil. Therefore it is a suitable time to turn away from these acts & start afresh.

4. MORE TIME FOR REFLECTION

As fasting prevents the need for food, it gives us more time & opportunity to reflect and become closer to Almighty Allah. It allows us to seek spiritual enlightenment without the distraction of food & drink.

5. GRATITUDE & UNDERSTANDING

Fasting enables us to understand the plight of the poor & needy a little more. It allows us to undergo a journey which demonstrates to us a portion of the hardship they endure, and shows us ho difficult it is to survive without food & drink.

Alhamdulillah, we are fortunate enough to know where our next meal will come from and we know that at the end of the fasting day, we will be able to enjoy a good Iftaar. Sadly, many Muslim families around the world are too poor to even have Iftaar and are not even able to break their fasts with a meal.

Thus, it reminds us how lucky we are and we should always thank Almighty Allah for our sustenance especially in Ramadan.

6. TESTS PATIENCE AND STRENGTH

Fasting tests & improves our patience, as well as our inner strength. It allows us to practise self-control and enables us to train our minds to fight its natural desires i.e. food.

7. STRENGTHENS COMMUNITY

Fasting in Ramadan strengthens community links as Muslims living in the same area unite at this time of year, gathering in Masjids & spending their time with their brothers & sisters in faith.

It also strengthens & renews family bonds as Ramadan is a month of forgiveness and families come together to enjoy the blessings it bestows.

Sheer Khurma

2011-07-31T23:35:00.000-07:00

Sheer Korma is prepared (Milk with dates) in Urdu is a festival vermicelli pudding prepared by Muslims on Eid ul-Fitr in South Asian countries.

Sheer Khurma is a special dish which is served on the morning of Eid day in the family and after the Eid prayer as breakfast, and throughout the day to all the visiting guests. It is very popular in Hyderabad in India, Pakistan, Asia, Arab countries and Ambur-Tamil Nadu.

It is a traditional Muslim festive breakfast, and a sweet dessert. Sheer means sweetened milk and Khurma is made from dried dates.

The main ingredients used in Sheer Korma are whole milk, Dates, almonds, cashew nuts, cardamom or cardamom powder, vermicelli, saffron, raisins, rose water and sugar.

Here I am going to share my recipe "how to make Sheer Khurma" which is really delicious and hope anyone tries to make they really love to eat and enjoy this dish too.

Ingredients :

- whole milk 1 liter

- 5 to 6 dried dates

- 1/2 cup vermicelli

- 2 to 3 tbs butter or vegetable ghee

- 10 to 12 chopped almonds (thin sliced)

- 10 to 12 chopped cashews (thin sliced)

- 10 to 12 raisins

- 4 to 5 small cardamom or 1 tsp cardamom powder

- 2 cup sugar ( as per taste)

Preparation :

1) Boil the milk and reduce until it is thickened half of the quantity.

2) Heat butter or ghee in a thick bottom pan, add cashew nuts and fry until golden brown and keep aside.

3) Add almonds and fry until golden brown and keep aside too.

4) Fry raisins and dates slightly and keep aside.

5) Add vermicelli in the remaining ghee and fry until golden brown and keep aside too.

6) When the milk is thickened add the fried vermicelli and let it cook further in a low flame for about 15 to 20 minutes.

7) As the mixture thickens, add sugar and dates.

8) Garnish with fried cashew nuts, almonds, raisins.

9) Sprinkle with cardamom powder and mix well.

10) Serve hot or cold, it tastes good.

Delicious Ramadan Food Chicken Biryani

2011-07-29T02:16:00.000-07:00

Ramadan is the ninth month of Islamic calendar. It is the month of Islamic fasting, in which Muslims refrain from eating and drinking from dawn until sunset.

In Arabian culture the name "Ramadan" had been the name of the ninth month long before the arrival of Islam; the word itself derived from an "Arabic root" rmd, as in words like "ramida"

To prepare or start for fasting, Muslims wake up before dawn and the fajr prayer to eat a meal. Muslims break their fast at Maghrib (at sunset) prayer time with a meal called lftar. Muslims may continue to eat and drink after the sun has set until the next mornings fajr prayer call. It is a time of believing and worshiping God.

Ramadan is also a time when Muslims are to slow down from worldly affairs and focus on self-reformation, spiritual cleansing . In this way they try to establish a link between god and themselves through charity, kindness, prayer and helping others. Since it is a festival of sharing and giving. They prepare foods and buy gifts for their friends, family and give to the poor, needy people or who cannot afford it ; this involves buying new shoes, clothes, food or any other items of need for them. Ramadan is the month of blessings.

In Egypt, during the month of Ramadan there is a substantial increase in consumption of food, electricity and medications related to digestive disorders as compared with the monthly average in the rest of the year.

Here I am going to share my "Chicken Biryani Recipe" which can be eaten during "Ramadan". Hope if anyone tries sure they will love to eat and enjoy their meal too.

Ingredients :

- 1lb chicken ( 500 g chicken cut into small cubes with bones)
- 3 chopped tomatoes
- 4 medium onion finely sliced
- 1/2 tbs red chili powder
- 1/4 tbs turmeric powder
- 3 tbs ginger paste
- 3 tbs garlic paste
- 2 to 3 bay leaf
- 1 chopped potato (fry the potatoes and keep aside)
- 1 cup yogurt
- 3 tbs chicken biryani masala (Available in any Indian grocery stores)
- few cashew nuts (fry and keep aside)
- chopped few coriander leaves for garnish
- salt to taste
- oil for cooking and frying

Preparation :

1) Take 3 cups of basmati rice in a bowl and soak for about 30 minutes.
2) In 6 to 7 glasses of boiling water add 1/2 tbs of salt (salt to taste) and the soaked rice. Boil till the rice is nearly done (half cooked) and almost tender. Remove from heat and drain the water.
3) Take 1/2 kg chicken pieces in a bowl clean and wash it.
4) Heat oil in a thick bottom pan, add bay leaf, ginger-garlic paste and stir for few minutes.
5) Add onion and fry until golden brown. Add tomatoes and fry until the oil separates.
6) Add chicken pieces, potatoes, yogurt, salt, chicken biryani masala and fry 15 to 20 minutes in a medium flame.
7) Add 1 or 2 cup of water and cook on a low flame until the chicken is fully cooked.
8) Then increase the heat and stir again until the oil separates from the gravy.
9) Now spread the cooked chicken and curry over the rice in layers and add food color on the rice.
10) First layer of rice and food color then spread the chicken curry on the rice. Repeat this process .
11) Cover the pot and cook on low heat until the rice is fully cooked.
12) Garnish with coriander leaves and fry cashew nuts.
13) Mix it will before serving.
14) Serve hot chicken biryani rice with vegetable salad and raita.

Mulberry Jam With or Without Sugar

2011-07-26T00:32:00.000-07:00

Making mulberry jam is an easy way to preserve the sweetness of Spring...

Mulberries are a Spring berry delight. Every year, the mulberry trees bear their fruits which turn from green to red to a deep purple. Once these common berries reach full ripeness, they fall from the tree. This is where we can spread a tarp or blanket to catch the fruit of this harvest.

Making mulberry jam is an easy way to preserve the sweetness of Spring. Store it in a jar and give to your closest friends, or have them over for tea and toast with mulberry jam.

Step 1: Collect your mulberries by spreading a tarp or blanket and shaking the branches, or just hand pick them. Soak and wash three times.

Step 2: Next, for the non-sugar version, place 5-1/4 cups of berries in a bowl and use a potato masher to mash the berries.

Step 3: For the sugar version, place 2 cups of berries in a bowl and mash the berries. Add 3-1/4 cup of sugar and mix.

Step 4:Next -- with either the sugar or non-sugar version -- add 2 tablespoons of freshly-squeezed lemon juice. Mix...

Strawberry Rhubarb Jam

2011-07-25T20:59:00.000-07:00

The deliciously sweet strawberry and the divinely sour rhubarb mix together in this jam in ways that can't be described with mere words. This recipe was passed on to me by my mother, and I am blessed to have it.

Ingredients:

3 cups strawberries, sliced and crushed

2 cups rhubarb, diced

4 Tbsp. Lemon juice

1 pkg. Pen Jel (or any variety of pectin to set the jam)

7 cup sugar (yep, 7)

Measure all of the sugar the recipe calls for in a large bowl or pan. Set it aside to be added all at once.

Place the strawberries, rhubarb and lemon juice in a large pan. Stir in the package of Pen Jel and place the whole on moderate heat, stir continuously to prevent scorching on the bottom, while bringing to a full boil.

Gradually add all the sugar measured previously, stirring well to dissolve well. Bring it to a full, roiling boil that cannot be stirred down, stirring constantly. (If you don’t, it will burn and taste terrible).

Start timing and continue boiling for two full minutes, until the jam sheets off the spoon. Remove the pan from the heat and quickly skim to remove the foam. Immediately fill the hot sterilized jars to about ¼ inch from the top and screw the sterilized flats and rings on tightly. You need to do this while the jam is super hot so that the jam will pour and the jars will seal.

Turn the jars over to stand on their tops to cool. You may hear a ‘pop’ of the lids sealing. When the lids have sealed you can turn the jar over and set it right side up. There will be a ‘no-give’ to the flat when pressed on the middle when the jars are sealed properly. When you look at the jam after it is cooled, it should be ‘jelled’ and not too runny inside the jar.

Recipe yields approximately 8 cups of jam.

Raspberry Jam Cookies

2011-07-25T12:01:00.000-07:00

Energy-packed raspberry jam cookies are easy to make, take anywhere snacks that are brilliant to accompany you on your travels to help combat road fatigue and the carnage it creates.

Raspberry Jam Cookie Ingredients:

2 Cups (300g) of Sifted Plain Flour
¾ Cup (185ml) of Canola Oil
¾ Cup (170g) of Caster Sugar
½ Cup (160g) of Raspberry Jam
2 Eggs
2 Teaspoons O Baking Powder
2 Teaspoons of Vanilla Extract
1 Teaspoon Lemon Essence
1 Teaspoon of Grated Lemon Zest
½ Teaspoon of Freshly Ground Sea Salt
Additional Sifted Sugar (for coating glass for flattening)

Method:

In a large mixing bowl beat together the canola oil and the caster sugar until blended then beat in the eggs, the vanilla extract, the lemon essence and the lemon zest
In another mixing bowl combine the sifted plain flour, the baking powder and the salt
Gradually add and beat the dry ingredients into the sugar mixture and mix well
Preheat oven to 200⁰C
Drop rounded tablespoons of dough about 5cm (2”) apart onto non-greased baking trays
Sift some sugar into a small bowl
Coat the bottom of a glass with non-stick cooking spray, dip the bottom of the glass into the sifted sugar and then use the bottom of the prepared glass to flatten the cookies, redipping in the sugar as required.
Drop ¼ teaspoon of raspberry jam atop the center of each flattened cookie and then transfer the loaded baking trays to a preheated oven and bake at 200⁰C for 8-10 minutes or until the cookies turn golden brown

Once cooked remove the raspberry jam cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking trays for a 1 minute before transferring them to wire racks to cool. Once the cookies have cooled completely transfer them to an airtight container ready for serving.

Serving:

These portions will yield around 3 dozen ever-popular, scrumptious raspberry jam cookies
Delicious raspberry jam cookies make perfect lunch box inclusions as they are always popular with the kids
Raspberry jam cookies are also very popular when presented as an element of a cookie jar or plate of assorted mixed cookies
Not surprisingly, raspberry jam cookies are commonly enjoyed over a cup of your favorite beverage (coffee, tea, milk, juices etc.) along with some good conversation or maybe even a movie.
Not only are raspberry jam cookies a great party hit with the kids they also make great travel snacks when taken along on your travels stored in air tight containers

Pinwheel Cookie Recipe

2011-07-24T20:32:00.000-07:00

This pinwheel cookie recipe is a great one for kids any time of the year.

Kids will enjoy this pinwheel cookie recipe and they will wonder how you created the fun pinwheel design. The pinwheel cookie is a wonderful holiday cookie, but can be enjoyed all year long.

Use these ingredients for the pinwheel cookie recipe:

1/3 Cup Butter

¾ Cup Granulated Sugar

1 Egg Yolk

1 Teaspoon Vanilla

3 Tablespoons Whole Milk

2 Cups All Purpose Flour

¼ Teaspoon Salt

½ Teaspoon Baking Powder

1 Ounce Baking Chocolate

Follow these directions for preparing the pinwheel cookie recipe:

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Mix the butter and sugar together. Beat the egg yolk in a small bowl and add it to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix well. Then add the vanilla and milk and mix. In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder and salt. Add the flour mixture to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix together until cookie dough forms.

If it is too stiff, add a little water. If the dough is not stiff enough, add a little flour. Divide the cookie dough in half. Melt the baking chocolate in the microwave or on top of the stove. Add the melted chocolate to one half of the pinwheel cookie dough. Chill both halves of the dough in the refrigerator for about 2 hours.

Remove from the refrigerator. With a rolling pin, roll out both halves of the pinwheel cookie dough out on separate floured boards to 1/8 inch thick. Place the chocolate dough on top of the plain cookie dough. Roll with a rolling pin to press them together. Then roll up the dough and return it to the refrigerator to chill for another 2 hours. The dough is much easier to work with when chilled.

Remove from the refrigerator. Slice the cookie dough into slices about 1/8 thick. Place on an ungreased cookie sheet about two inches apart. Bake in the oven at 375 degrees for ten to fifteen minutes.

While your first batch of the pinwheel cookie recipe is baking, prepare your next batch using a second ungreased cookie sheet. Depending on the size of your cookie sheet, you will have several batches. This pinwheel cookie recipe makes about 3 to 4 dozen cookies.

Let the cookies cool for ten to twenty minutes after removing from the oven.When preparing this pinwheel cookie recipe, powdered sugar may be substituted for the granulated Vegetable oil or margarine may also be substituted for the butter.

Chocolate Cake With Peppermint Frosting Recipe

2011-07-24T20:05:00.000-07:00

This is a delicious chocolate cake with peppermint frosting recipe is one that you and your family will enjoy.
Follow these easy directions to make your chocolate cake with peppermint frosting recipe. First prepare and bake the chocolate cake. While the cake is cooling, prepare the peppermint frosting.

This recipe takes about twenty to thirty minutes to prepare plus cooking time. This is a delicious dessert that you and your family will enjoy.

Use these ingredients for the chocolate cake:

2 Cups All Purpose Flour

1 Teaspoon Baking Powder

1 Teaspoon Baking Soda

½ Teaspoon Salt

1/3 Cup Butter or Margarine

1 1/4 Cups Granulated Sugar

1 Egg

4 Ounces Baking Chocolate

1 Teaspoon Vanilla

½ Cup Sour Cream

¾ Cup Milk

Follow these directions for the chocolate cake:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Grease two cake pans using butter or margarine. Use 8 inch or 9 inch round or square cake pans.

Mix together the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt together in a large bowl. Mix well and set aside. In another large bowl, mix together the sugar and butter. Beat the egg in a small bowl, then add the egg to the sugar and butter mixture and mix well. Melt the baking chocolate and add the chocolate and the vanilla. Then add the flour mixture. Mix well. Add the sour cream and milk and mix well. Pour the mixture into the twocake pans.

Place in center rack in oven. Bake at 350 degrees for about 30 to 40 minutes. Cool for at least thirty to forty minutes. Remove both cake layers from the cake pans.

Now it is time to prepare the peppermint frosting.

Use these ingredients for the peppermint frosting:

½ Cup Finely Crushed Peppermint Hard Candy

3 Tablespoons Milk

1/3 Cup Butter or Margarine

3 ½ Cups Confectioners Sugar

Follow these directions for the peppermint frosting:

Mix together the crushed peppermint, milk and butter or margarine. Cook over a low heat, stirring constantly, until the peppermint is melted. Remove from heat and add confectioners sugar. Mix well or put through the food processor. Add a little milk if necessary.

Now it is time to frost the cake.

Frost the top and side of one layer of the chocolate cake with peppermint frosting. Place the next layer on top and finish frosting the top and sides of the cake.

Serve and enjoy the chocolate cake with peppermint frosting to your family and guests!

Store any leftovers covered at room temperature or in refrigerator.

Raspberry Jam Sandwich Cookies

2011-07-24T11:09:00.000-07:00

Every popular, raspberry jam sandwich cookies are surprisingly easy to make and what’s more, this versatile recipe can be tweaked to your heart’s content.

Raspberry Jam Sandwich Cookie Ingredients:

1½ Cups (225g) of Sifted Plain Flour
¾ Cup (80g) of Ground Almonds
½ Cup (125g) of Softened Butter
½ Cup (115g) of Caster Sugar
½ Cup (160g) of Raspberry Jam
1 Egg

Method:

In a large mixing bowl cream together the softened butter and the caster sugar until light and fluffy, then in another mixing bowl combine the sifted plain flour and the ground almonds. Gradually add the combined dry ingredients to the creamed mixture and mix well.
Flour a work surface, then turn the dough out onto the prepared (floured) work surface and knead the dough for about 30 seconds. Now shape the kneaded dough into a disc, then cover and refrigerate the dough for 1 hour to chill.
When chilled, remove the dough from the refrigerator, uncover and place the dough disc between two large sheets of baking paper. Use a rolling pin to roll the dough out until it becomes very thin.
Now use a 6cm (2½”) cutter to cut 40 cookie rounds out of the dough and then use a 2cm (¾”) cutter to cut out the centers from half of the cookie rounds. Rework the dough off-cuts into a thin sheet, cut out some more cookie rounds (tops and bottoms) as before and continue this process until all of the dough has been transformed into cookie pairs.
Preheat the oven to 180⁰C and prepare some baking trays by greasing or lining them with baking paper.
Place the cookie tops and bottoms 3cm (1¼”) apart onto greased baking trays, then transfer the loaded baking trays into a preheated oven and bake at 180⁰C for 12-15 minutes or until the cookies turn golden brown.
When cooked remove cookie tops and bottoms from the oven allowing them to cool for 5 minutes on the baking trays before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Once the cookie tops and bottoms have completely cooled spread raspberry jam over the cookie bottoms (the ones without the holes cut out of them) and then top each raspberry jam covered cookie bottom with a cookie top (the ones with the center holes cut out of them).
When all of the raspberry jam sandwich cookies have been assembled transfer them to an airtight container ready to be served.

Serving:

These portions will yield around 1½ - 2 dozen scrumptious raspberry jam sandwich cookies
Raspberry jam sandwich cookies are always a great favorite with the kids, so they really do make wonderful lunch box treats
Also serve them with beverages such as a cup of coffee, café late, Mocha, tea, glass of milk or milkshakes etc. or as an addition to a jar/plate of assorted cookies.

Pumpkin-Orange Jam Recipe

2011-07-24T10:35:00.000-07:00

There are many ways to use or recyle your Halloween pumpkins. Making Pumpkin-Orange Jam is just one way to make a delicious treat your family will love spreading on breakfast bagels or toast this winter.

Pumpkin pies, pumpkin bread and now Pumpkin-Orange Jam...mouth-watering, delicious ways to turn your pumpkins into more than just a melting slush-pile on your front porch steps.

Pumpkin-Orange Jam Recipe Ingredients:

2 medium sized oranges, rinsed
2 cups sugar
4 cups freshly cooked pumpkin

Recipe Directions:

Grate the outer layer of orange peels and set them aside. Remove and throw away the inner white membrane of the oranges.
Then finely chop the orange pulp until you have about 1 cup.
Place the grated orange peel and pulp, along with any juice in a 3-quart pan.
Stir in the sugar and pumpkin until it is all well blended together
Bring the mixture to a full boil. Reduce your heat and simmer, uncovered, for about 30 minutes. Stir the mixture occasionally while it is simmering, replacing the lid between each stir.
Meanwhile, prepare 7 half-pint canning jars and lids.
Fill jars, leaving 1/8 inch headspace.
Wipe the rims of jars clean with a damp cloth and place lids on jars.
Add and tighten rings, but do not overtighten them.
Waterbath for about 10 minutes.
Let cool completely before handling if you are going to make gift jars.

This recipe makes approximately 7 half-pint jars of Pumpkin-Orange Jam. The pumpkin mellows out the more acidic orange flavor. The jam is a brilliantly colorful jam and tastes great.

To make this recipe for Christmas or other gifts, you may remove the rings. Using pinking shears, cut a circle of fabric (can use Christmas prints, fall prints or any type of print for the gift occasion theme) that is about 1 1/2" diameter larger than the ring. Simply place the fabric evenly over the jar lid and replace the ring, tightening it while holding the fabric in place. You may also tie a little hemp rope or raffia around the jar ring. Use the rope to tie on a hand-crafted tag and label your jam as Homemade by (insert your name) and Pumpkin-Orange Jam.

These beautiful jars of jam make wonderful gifts for fall or Christmas for your friends, coworkers and family members. Gift baskets are a good way to remember the people we see every day without breaking the holiday budget.

Honey Beetroot Soup

2011-07-23T00:26:00.000-07:00

Honey Beetroot Soup is the easy to prepare honey recipe with beetroot, tomatoes, water and whipping cream in it. It is very healthy recipe and rich in iron which is good for anemic patients. Preparation Time: 20 minutes.

Honey Beetroot Soup is the easy to prepare honey recipe with beetroot, tomatoes, water and whipping cream in it. It is very healthy recipe and rich in iron which is good for anemic patients
.

Ingredients:

•    Honey                          1 tablespoon
•    Butter                          1 tablespoon
•    Beetroot                       2 medium sized
•    Tomatoes                     2 medium sized
•    Water                          4 cups
•    Whipping Cream            1 tablespoon
•    Cumin Seeds                 ½ teaspoon
•    Salt                             to taste

Directions:

Peel off beetroot and cut into small pieces.
Cut each tomato into four pieces.
Take a pan and keep on low heat.
Add butter and cumin seeds to it.
Sauté it well.
Add beetroot and tomato pieces to it.
Pour 3 cups water into the pan.
Cover the pan with the lid and let it cook for 10 minutes.
Add the remaining 1 cup of water and mix it well.
Cook for another 2 minutes and remove from heat.
Add salt to the soup and let it cool down.
Take a blender.
Add the mixture and honey to it.
Blend the mixture until smooth soup is ready.

How to Serve: Serve it warm and drizzle the whipping cream over it.

Honey Sweet Corn Soup

2011-07-23T00:17:00.000-07:00

Honey Sweet Corn Soup is the delicious honey recipe with sweet corn in it. Preparation Time: 20 minutes.

Honey Sweet Corn Soup is the delicious honey recipe with sweet corn in it. Swwet corn is loved by children and is delicious too. This recipe can be added to the list of daily soups and easy to prepare diets.

Ingredients:

•    Honey                                1 tablespoon
•    Butter                        2 tablespoons
•    Sweet Corn Kernels              ½ cup
•    Sweet Corn cream style         1 cup
•    Finely chopped Cabbage        1 cup
•    Chopped Carrot                    1 cup
•    Corn starch or Corn flour        2 tablespoons
•    Vegetable stock                   4 cups
•    Ajinomoto (Optional)            ¼ teaspoon
•    Black Pepper powder             ¼ teaspoon
•    Water                                 ½ cup
•    Salt                                    to taste

In Advance Preparation: Add corn starch or corn flour to water and mix well.

Directions:

Heat butter in a pan.
Add chopped cabbage, chopped carrot and corn kernels to it.
Add vegetable stock and boil it.
Add the sweet corn cream style and continue cooking for 2 minutes.
Add salt, black pepper powder, honey and Ajinomoto to it.
Add the corn flour paste to it; stir it continuously till the soup is thick.

How to Serve: The soup is ready. Garnish it with finely chopped coriander leaves.

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Sour And Sweet Honey Grapes Juice

2011-07-23T00:04:00.000-07:00

Honey grapes juice recipe is the combination of sour grapes and sweet honey which is healthy recipe as well. Preparation Time: 10 minutes.

The juice has very attractive and noble color which can be favorite of the children and elders too.

Ingredients:
•    Grapes                   4 cups (1 per serving)
•    Honey                     4 tablespoons
•    Chilled Water        1 cup
•    Salt (optional)         to taste

Directions:

In a blender add chilled water, honey and grapes.
Blend it until smooth juicy mixture is ready.
Add salt to taste and mix well.

How to Serve: Serve the juice in glasses with ice cubes.

Chef's Tip: Honey grapes juice recipe is the combination of sour grapes and sweet honey which is healthy recipe as well. The juice has very attractive and noble color which can be favorite of the children and elders too. The juice can be served as a good appetizer and is good for digestion too.

Delicious Honey Tomato Soup

2011-07-22T23:22:00.000-07:00

Honey tomato soup is the easy to prepare and delicious recipe of soup with honey and tomato and other ingredients in it. Just try it once and you will love it everyday. Preparation Time: 20 minutes.

Ingredients:
•    Honey                              1 tablespoon
•    Edible Oil                         2 tablespoons
•    Chopped Tomatoes            8
•    Ginger paste                     2 teaspoons
•    Red Chilly powder              2 teaspoons
•    Garlic paste                      2 teaspoons
•    curry powder 2 teaspoons
•    Coriander powder              2 tablespoons
•    turmeric powder ½ teaspoon
•    Cumin powder ½ teaspoon
•    Chopped Mint leaves ½ cup (for seasoning)
•    Water 4½ cups
•    Salt to taste

Directions:

Pour water in a deep pan.
Add chopped tomatoes, ginger paste, coriander powder, turmeric powder and 1 teaspoon of curry powder to it.
Bring it to boil.
Lower the heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
Drain it and store the liquid.

Heat edible oils in a pan.

Add cumin powder, garlic paste, red chilly powder and sauté well.
Add the stored liquid to it and stir well.
Remove from heat when ready.
Let it cool down.
Add honey to it.

How to Serve: The soup is ready. Season it with chopped mint leaves. It is sour and sweet in taste.

Honey Spicy Mint Juice

2011-07-22T23:13:00.000-07:00

Honey spicy mint juice is the easy to prepare recipe with honey, water, spices powder and mint powder in it. The juice is cooling and refreshing too. It acts as a very good appetizer. Preparation Time: 10 minutes.

Honey spicy mint juice is the easy to prepare recipe with honey, water, spices powder and mint powder in it. The juice is cooling and refreshing too. It acts as a very good appetizers. Mint leaves can be used for decorating the glasses of mint juice. Lemon can also be added to this recipe to make it spicy and sour to taste.

Ingredients:
•    Honey                      4 tablespoons
•    Chilled Water                4 glasses
•    Spices Powder               ¼ teaspoon
•    Mint Powder                  ¾ teaspoon

Directions:

Take a blender.
Add chilled water in it.
Add honey, spices and mint powder to it.
Blend it well in a blender.

How to Serve: Serve it chilled.

Chef's Tip: Adding Jal Jeera, Lemon, Black Salt to the juice can help reduce indigestion and also make the juice more spicy and taste to drink. Serve when chilled to improve the taste. This is the best juice recipe for the summers to increase the appetitie, digest the food and cool the body. Honey spicy mint juice is the easy to prepare recipe with honey, water, spices powder and mint powder in it. The juice is cooling and refreshing too. It acts as a very good appetizer. Mint leaves can be used for decorating the glasses of mint juice. Lemon can also be added to this recipe to make it spicy and sour to taste.

Honey Coconut Milk

2011-07-22T23:04:00.000-07:00

Honey coconut milk is the delicious recipe with honey and coconut milk in it making a very nutritious diet. Preparation Time: 10 minutes.

Honey coconut milk is the delicious recipe with honey and coconut milk in it making a very nutritious diet. It is very easy to prepare coconut milk and then add honey to it to taste well. The sweetness of honey is natural and not harmful for the body as the sugar is. The sweet taste of honey make the milk more favorite to children. This milk can be used in preparing other recipes also.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes.

Ingredients:

•    Fresh Grated coconuts 2 cups
•    Honey 1 tablespoon
•    Lukewarm Water 1 cup

Directions:

Add fresh grated coconut and lukewarm water in a blender.
Blend it together to make fine paste.
Sieve the mixture through a fine filter or muslin cloth.
Collect the thick coconut milk in a bowl.
If you want to make it thin then repeat the steps with the residual after filter.
Add honey to make it sweet.

How to Serve:
Honey Coconut milk is used to make many delicious sweet recipes.

Chef's Tip:
Honey coconut milk is the delicious recipe with honey and coconut milk in it making a very nutritious diet. It is very easy to prepare coconut milk and then add honey to it to taste well. The sweetness of honey is natural and not harmful for the body as the sugar is. The sweet taste of honey make the milk more favorite to children. This milk can be used in preparing other recipes also.

Honey Orange Juice Recipe

2011-07-22T22:56:00.000-07:00

Honey Orange Juice is the recipe with orange juice, honey and black pepper in it.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:

Orange Juice 4 cups
Honey 4 tablespoons
Black Pepper ½ teaspoon

Directions:

Put orange juice in a blender.

Add honey and black pepper to it.

Blend it well.
Add ice cubes to it.

How to serve: Serve it chilled.

Pakoras

2011-07-22T22:23:00.000-07:00

Pakoras are a very tasty Asian dish.Alot of people enjoy eating them.if i show you how to make them then will you be one of those who loves them?Asian dishes in my eyes are the tastiest ever. They are delicious and extremely flavourful. Pakoras are one of my favourites, with samosas being the other.

Pakoras are great for parties too and just like samosas they are very cheap to make too. Pakoras can be made according to your taste. If you like them spicy then just add more spice to the mix. If you have never tried pakoras then mix a little spice to the mix,fry one pakora,taste and then judge how you would prefer them.

pakoras are a very famous Pakistani dish. They are usually made on occasions such as religious gatherings like Eid as well as made in small batches just for the fun of it because they are quick and easy to make.

Ingriedients:-

2cups gram flour

pinch of salt

patato-chopped into very small pieces

onion-chopped into very small pieces

half spoon chilli powder (or according to your taste)

coriander leaves-finely chopped

1 teaspoon garam masala powder

i clove garlic crushed

water

oil for frying

Method:-

Mix the gram flour,garam masala,crushed garlic,coriander leaves,salt,potatoes,onion and chilli powder into a bowl
Add water to turn into a thick paste.make sure it is not too thick either though, but not so runny that it flows like water.
Heat up the oil.when the oil is hot add just one spoon of the pakora mix into it.Take care not to just splash into the oil.bring the spoon close enough and drop so that the mix joins together into that one spot rather than all over
Take out when they are nice,brown,crispy and well cooked.
Taste it and judge. Do you want more spice? maybe you would prefer more salt? or maybe you would prefer to taste more potatoes?
Make the appropriate changes to the mix according to your taste.
Cook the remaining mix.
Serve immediately with a sauce of your choice.

Please let me know if you do try this for the first time nd how it was for you.

Make Homemade Bagel Chips For Your Party

2011-07-22T21:03:00.000-07:00

A recipe and instructions on how to make bagel chips at home for your party.

Do you want a savory snack or appetizer for your next party? Try making these bagel chips in different flavors. They will please your guests. Here is what you'll need:
6 large gourmet bagels from a specialty store (onion, garlic, sesame, poppy seed, salt, egg, or plain)

For a Pesto Topping:

1/4 C prepared pesto sauce -- homemade or store bought

Tomato & Oregano Topping:

2 T. tomato paste
2 T. Olive Oil

2 t. dried Oregano

Butter & Garlic Topping:

2 T. butter
1 large clove garlic, finely chopped

Shallot & Onion Topping:

2 T. butter
2 small shallots, finely chopped
1 green onion, finely chopped
2 T finely chopped white onion

Preheat oven to 225 degrees.

Cut each bagel in half crosswise. Slice each bagel half horizontally into 1/4" thick slices. Arrange slices in a single layer on 2 ungreased baking sheets.

Choose and prepare 1 or several toppings. (See directions below)

Spread each bagel slice with selected topping.

Bake bagel slices until crisp, 30 - 35 minutes. Transfer baking sheets to wire racks to cool slightly. If desired, spread bagel slices with more topping.

Pesto Topping: Brush bagel slices with pesto sauce before baking.

Tomato & Oregano Topping: In a small saucepan, cook tomato paste and olive oil over medium heat until just warmed. Stir in oregano. Brush tomatoe mixutre over bagel slices before baking.

Butter & Garlic Topping: In a small skillet, melt butter over low heat. Add garlic; cook, stirring, until just golden. Brush garlic mixture over bagel slices before baking.

Shallot & Onion Topping: In a small skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add shallots, green onion, and white onion. Cook, stirring frequently, until softened, 5 minutes. Brush onion mixture over bagel slices before baking.

For a sweet bagel topping over plain or cinnamon-raisin bagel slices:

Mix together:

2 T melted butter

2 T unsweetened cocoa powder

2 T powdered sugar

Bake until crisp, 30 - 35 minutes. Enjoy!

Be sure to check out my many other recipe ideas in Bukisa!

Easy Cheesy Tart Appetizers

2011-07-22T20:47:00.000-07:00

Easy appetizers for any dinner party. These cheesy tart-lets can be tweaked with several different variations included in this article. There's something for everyone!

Ingredients:

1 - 17.3 oz. package of frozen puff pastry sheets (2 sheets)
1/2 cup of Mozzarella cheese (Shredded)
3 tbsp. of butter (melted)
1 tsp. of garlic powder
1/2 tsp of oregano
1/2 cup of mushrooms (finely chopped)
1/4 cup of sweet onions (finely chopped)

DIRECTIONS:

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

2. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, garlic and oregano.

3. Using parchment paper or foil, line a large baking sheet.

4. Unfold puff pastry onto a lightly floured surface.

5. Using a small round cookie cutter, baby food jar lid or other appropriate object, cut out pastry.

6. Place cut pastry onto the prepared cookie sheet.

7. In a small bowl (NOT the butter bowl), combine the finely chopped mushrooms and onions.

8. With a baking brush, brush the butter mixture over each round pastry piece.

9. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the mushrooms and onion mixture into the round pastry.

10. Bake for about 15 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.

11. remove from oven and top with mozzarella cheese.

12. Place back in oven for 5 minutes to melt the cheese.

13. Remove from oven and set aside to cool for 5 minutes before serving.

* Makes about 18 tart-lets.

* Ready in 30 minutes.

VARIATIONS:

1. Make Taco Tart-lets: Using hamburger or turkey burger brown about 1 cup of meat. sprinkle on taco seasoning as meat is browning. Prepare the puff pastry as described above (steps 3-6). Spoon meat onto pastry. Follow steps10-13, replacing the mozzarella cheese with shredded cheddar cheese. Top with sour cream or Salsa.

2. Make Pizza Tart-lets: Add finely chopped pepperoni and pizza sauce to the onion and mushroom mixture. Follow all of the above steps, increasing the first baking time to 20 minutes.

3. Make Vegetable Tart-lets: Add Broccoli, finely chopped, to the onion and mushroom mixture. Instead of butter, use 3 tablespoons of milk. Replace the garlic and oregano with 1 teaspoon of ranch dip mix (or add to taste). Use shredded cheddar instead of mozzarella. Follow the steps from above.

Prawns Thokku

2011-07-22T02:25:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:
Prawns- 30 (shelled,deveined)
onion- 1 (big,chopped)
ginger garlic paste- 2 tsp
tomato- 3/4 (big,chopped)
turmeric powder- 1/2 tsp
sambar powder- 2 tsp
salt
curry leaves

Procedure:
Heat oil in kadai and fry onions until golden brown. Then add ginger garlic paste and turmeric. Now add tomatoes, sambar powder and salt. When soft, add prawns and 1/2 cup water. Cook until half done. Add curry leaves. Remove lid and allow to dry until you reach the desired consistency.

How to Make Gulabjamun, India's Popular Dessert

2011-07-21T21:29:00.000-07:00

Gulabjamun is one of India's most popular desserts. It gets this name from the combination of two words: Gulab which means rose and Jamun which is a kind of purple color Indian berry. We can eat this gulabjamun by itself or topped with ice cream.
We know that everyone love to eat sweet dish. In India gulabjamun is very famous as a sweet dish or dessert. This is a dessert which we can eat anytime or after meal. I am going to write the steps how to make gulabjamun and hope if anybody tries to make this gulabjamun their family will really enjoy this dish when they will eat.

Ingredients :

1) 6 glass of water.

2) 2 1/2 glasses of sugar according to taste how much sweetness you want. If more , then use 3 glasses of sugar.

3) All purpose flower or 1/2 cup maida .

3) 1 teaspoon green cardamom powder.

4) 4 cup powdered milk or khoya .

5) Oil for frying.

Preparation :

1) Prepare syrup by dissolving 3 glasses of sugar in 6 glasses of water and boil at a high heat. You can use the spoon to check the thickness of the syrup , if it sticks in your finger it means the syrup is ready. Keep aside and let it cool.

2) To prepare the dough add powdered milk or khoya and maida instead of water add with milk . Knead gently with a soft and smooth dough.

3) Apply oil or ghee on both the palms and then shape round and smooth small or medium sized balls without cracks from the dough.

4) Deep fry in oil on medium heat until golden brown. Keep aside let it cool.

5) Soak the gulabjamun in the syrup . Add cardamom powder on it and let it dissolve for an hour or if you prefer it to taste more sweet and tasty leave it for at least a day or 4 to 5 hours.