Thursday, March 23, 2023

Harsh Goenka Found His "Simple Small Pleasure In Summer." Guess What It Is

When the sun is right above your head and the whole city is sizzling in the scorching summer heat, there is only one thing that can cool you down – a chilled glass of creamy lassi. Made using simple ingredients like milk, curd, and sugar, lassi has been our traditional summer cooler for ages. It is creamy, sweet, and works best when you want something refreshing and filling. Toss in some ice, add a layer of fresh malai and you are all set to guzzle down the sweet drink. What reminded us of this? Well, it is industrialist Harsh Goenka's latest Twitter post.

Also Read: Harsh Goenka Shares His Love For Indian Thalis And We Can Relate

The RPG Group Chairman shared a video which will prompt you to go grab a glass of lassi. It shows a street vendor taking a dollop of curd from an earthen utensil and adding it to a steel pot. He then adds sugar and churns the mixture with some milk. The lassi is then served in a kulhad or earthen cup. “My simple small pleasures in summer!” the caption read.

The post went viral in no time. It has also attracted the attention of singer Adnan Sami. He wrote, “The true simple joys of life are unparalleled!.” To this, Harsh Goenka replied, “So true.”

A person said, “RoohAfza is missing.”

Another added, “The secret of health, happiness and success is deep breathing and  buttermilk.”

A user spoke on everyone's behalf when he said, “Kulhad me lassi ka taste to supar se upar.”

Also Read: Harsh Goenka Shares Video Of Appam Being Used To Create Art

Are you chalking up plans to beat the heat this summer? Then make these summer coolers and enjoy the season to the fullest.

Here's 5 Summer Coolers For Summer:

Watermelon basil cooler

Think of a summer fruit and watermelon will surely cross your mind. This watermelon and basil cooler has the flavours and nutrients of watermelon along with hints of pungent basil leaves. Recipe here.

Jal jeera

This is another desi summer cooler made with jeera or cumin. It not only cools you down but also aids digestion. So, jal jeera can be your best summer companion. View the recipe here.

Barley water

Barley water is an old and healthy drink which has loads of nutrients and a satisfying taste. Its preparation is easier and you can gulp it down any time of the day. Recipe inside.

Asiatic bloody mary

This is for those looking for something fancy. It is a fresh version of the traditional bloody Mary. It packs a spice punch and can be relished in brunch. Click here for the recipe. 

Strawberry dawn

With strawberry, lime juice, pineapple, and lemon spritzer, this drink will make you feel immune to the heat. It can be made quickly and enjoyed with some starters. Recipe here.



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Nargis Fakhris Healthy Routine Included Treadmill Run, Cauliflower Rice, And Stir Fried Vegetables

Switching to a healthier diet often means compromising on taste and reluctantly giving up all the lip-smacking foods. We have to keep tabs on our weight and make sure that we don't empty the whole box of chocolates in one go and gorge on the scrumptious pepperoni pizza. Staying on track in your fitness journey requires dedication and if you are looking for some inspiration, then actress Nargis Fakhri can be the right person. She routinely shares updates from her kitchen diaries, and this time too Nargis has left us drooling. In her Instagram Stories, Nargis Fakhri shared a glimpse of her dinner menu. We could see her cooking some delicious cauliflower rice in a pan. See the pics below:

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Also Read: Anushka Sharma Enjoys Delish Maharashtrian Food Courtesy Her Mother
Another dish on Nargis Fakhri's dinner menu was stir fry vegetables, which included broccoli, carrots, red bell pepper and more:
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Doesn't the meal quite yummy? Well, Nargis Fakhri deserved it as she seemed to have burned loads of calories on the treadmill in the morning:
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Now if you are motivated to prepare a healthy meal, then here are some nutritious meal recipes.

1. Cauliflower rice
Let us start with Nargis Fakhri's dinner menu. Cauliflower rice is an alternative to ordinary white and brown rice. Best part? It can help you lose some weight.  And yes, it is not only low in calories but tastes awesome too. Click here for the recipe. 

2. Stir-fried vegetables
Have plenty of vegetables left in the fridge? Do not worry and just follow this recipe to turn your leftovers into lip-smacking stir-fried vegetables. It is nutritious and flavoursome. Recipe inside. 

3. Beetroot uttapam
If you want to relish some south Indian food then go for this beetroot uttapam. Having a pleasing pink colour, this uttapam is topped with vegetables and served hot. View the recipe here.

4. Thai chicken stir fry
Of course, we have some options for meat lovers too. This Thai chicken stir fry can be perfect for dinner. It has the sweet, spicy, and salty flavours of Thai cuisine and goes best with some white rice. Recipe here

5. Dum paneer kali mirch
Creamy paneer is cooked in dum to bring out its flavours dumped and tossed into a spicy black pepper curry. Relish it with some rice and you will surely be left licking your fingers. Click here for the recipe. 

Who said healthy food cannot be tasty? Opt for dishes like these and you'll rediscover your love for food. 



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Anushka Sharma Enjoys Delish Maharashtrian Food Courtesy Her Mother

The festival of Gudi Padwa was celebrated on Wednesday, March 22. Also known as 'Ugadi' in Karnataka, it marks the new year for Marathis and Kannadigas and coincides with the first day of Chaitra Navratri. On this day, it is customary to eat some Maharashtrian delicacies like shrikhand, bhaji and poori. And Anushka Sharma's Gudi Padwa celebrations were no different! The actress enjoyed a wholesome and yummy meal on the occasion of the Maharashtrian New Year. Guess who the chef was? None other than Anushka Sharma's mother, Ashima Sharma. Take a look:

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Also Read: Gudi Padwa 2023: Sameera Reddy Enjoys Hearty Lunch, Courtesy Her Mom-In-Law

In the click, we could see some traditional Maharashtrian treats laid out on a banana leaf, as is typical to Gudi Padwa. There was a bowl of steamed rice along with spicy batata bhaji or aloo bhaji. There was also a bowl of kala channa rasedaar as well as the classic Maharashtrian flatbread - Puran Poli. The meal was completed with two slices of lemon, kala namak and a slice of lemon pickle. "My mom's attempt at making Maharashtrian delicacies. Happy Gudi Padwa," she wrote in the caption.

We surely loved to see this amazing desi feast that Anushka Sharma enjoyed. This is not the only time we have seen the actress-producer relishing yummy food. She regularly shares her food indulgences from across the world for her Instagram fan following of 62.7 million. Recently, she confessed her love for croissants in an Instagram post. Anushka Sharma was enjoying a chocolate-filled croissant and the smile on her lips revealed how much she relished it. "Croissant high," she wrote in the photo carousel. Take a look:

On the work front, Anushka Sharma is gearing up for the release of 'Chakda Xpress'. A sports drama based on the life of ace cricketer Jhulan Goswami, it will be released on OTT soon.



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Wednesday, March 22, 2023

To Eat Or Not To Eat? 11 Best And Worst Foods For Acid Reflux

Acidity is bothersome as it is, and when it is accompanied by acid reflux, it's even worse. Reflux happens acid content in the stomach flows back up to the inflamed oesophagus. It causes nausea, heartburn and general discomfort with pain in many body parts, especially when lying down after a meal. If you have ever experienced it, you know what we are talking about. We already know that the food that we ate last is the cause of the acidity we grapple with later. If food is the culprit, food is also the solution.  

We got some expert tips to tackle acid reflux with a good diet and eating habits. Dietitian Kanupreet Arora Narang shared some dos and don'ts in your diet to prevent and manage acid reflux effectively. Let's check it out. 

Also Read: 12 Amazing Home Remedies For Acidity

Here're 6 Best Foods For Acid Reflux: 

1. Buttermilk 

Milk undergoes a fermentation process to turn into curd, which is used to make buttermilk. This drink contains lactic acid, which is known to curb acid reflux down. Dietitian Kanupreet shared an easy recipe to make buttermilk. Take 2 tablespoons of curd, mix with some water, and season with salt, roasted jeera and black pepper. 

2. Coconut water 

Coconut water is excellent for acidity as it contains electrolytes like potassium, and maintains pH balance in the body. The expert recommends having fresh coconut water only.   

3. Ginger lemon water  

Ginger contains phenolic compounds that relieve gastrointestinal irritation and lemon helps with its alkalising properties. Make ginger lemon water by boiling half an inch piece of ginger in some water. Pass it through a sieve and mix some lemon water. You can also add honey to sweeten it. 

4. Cucumber water 

Cucumber cools down the body and provides relief from a burning sensation. Take half a glass of water, add 1 fresh chopped cucumber piece, some mint leaves, and 2-3 drops of lemon water. Season with salt and black pepper powder. Blend in a grinder to make cucumber water. 

5. Rosemary and chamomile tea

Both herbs have a soothing effect. To make this tea, first, boil water in a pan. Then add equal parts of chamomile tea leaves and rosemary tea leaves, turn off the gas, cover the pan and let it simmer for a few minutes. Strain and drink warm. 

6. Ajwain saunf water 

Both ajwain and saunf are known to ease digestion and prevent issues like acidity. Boil 1/4 tsp of ajwain seeds, and 1/4 tsp of saunf in around 300 ml water. Make sure to boil water well so that all the properties of the spices seep into the water. 

Also Read: 6 Fruits To Combat Acid Reflux Stress

Here're 6 Worst Foods For Acid Reflux 

Dietitian Kanupreet Arora Narang listed down some foods that are a big no-no to preventing and managing acidity. 

1. Tea/Coffee 

The high caffeine content in tea and coffee makes acidity worse. The worst is to start the day with these beverages. The expert suggests drinking lemon water in the morning instead. 

2. Chocolates 

First, the cocoa powder in chocolates is acidic, and second, it increases the production of serotonin in the body, which may cause pushback of the gastric content. So avoid this sweet if you often complain about acid reflux. 

3. Carbonated beverages 

Carbonated drinks like cold drinks and soda may misbalance intra-oesophageal pH for some time. So, it's best to avoid it when feeling acidic. 

4. Chilli and garlic 

Spicy and acidic foods like garlic tend to irritate the oesophagus. If you are already suffering from acidity, it's best to eliminate these from your diet. 

5. Alcohol 

According to a study published in the National Library of Medicine, excessive alcohol consumption can cause oesophageal irritation and mucosal damage, leading to acidity in the body.  

Also Read: 5 Ways To Keep The Risk Of Acid Reflux At Bay

Acid reflux can make you very uncomfortable. Tackle it with a good dietary routine. Sit upright while eating and maintain a 3-4 hours gap between the last meal and sleep. Eat slowly and follow portion control. After every meal, walk at least 1000 steps for around 10 minutes.  



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Tuesday, March 21, 2023

Navratri 2023: How To Make Vrat-Friendly Mordhan Ke Dhokale (Easy Recipe)

Chaitra Navratri has begun and many people must be observing vrat (fasting) for the same. There are many strict restrictions on food that devotees pay attention to. They tend to use only specific kinds of flour, spices and vegetables in their food. They abstain from meat and alcohol. If you're keeping a vrat, it is important to choose foods high in nutrients and light on the stomach. This ensures that you also keep any health problems at bay. Are you looking for an easy and different vrat-friendly snack? If yes, you must try mordhan ke dhokale. This vratwala dhokla is a special dish that you will like so much, you will make it even after your vrat is over!

What Is Mordhan Ke Dhokale?

Mordhan Ke Dhokale is made using mordhan, which is also called samvat chawal, samak ke chawal, little millet or barnyard millet. This ingredient is often used in place of regular rice, as the latter is prohibited during Navratri vrat. Mordhan Ke Dhokale also does not contain haldi (turmeric) and besan (gram flour) like regular dhoklas do, as both of these are also not allowed during Navratri fasting. Instead, this vrat-friendly dhokla is flavoured using ginger, chillies, curry leaves and cumin. Sendha namak (rock salt) is also used in place of regular salt. On the whole, these substitutions also make Mordhan Ke Dhokale a nutritious, energy-boosting snack that can be enjoyed anytime. Find the recipe below.

Also Read: Chaitra Navratri 2022: 6 Foods You Can Still Eat While Fasting

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How To Make Samak Dhokla At Home | Easy Recipe for Mordhan ke Dhokale by Niru Gupta

  1. Mix roasted samvat chawal, rock salt, chilli paste, ginger paste and yogurt to form a batter.
  2. This mixture should be allowed to ferment overnight to become spongy
  3. The next day, pour the batter into a tin greased with ghee. Cook it for 20 minutes in a steamer.
  4. You can use a toothpick to check if it is cooked through, as you do with cakes.
  5. Later, allow the dhokla to cool before cutting it into pieces.
  6. Top the dhokla with a tempering of cumin, red pepper and curry leaves heated in ghee.

Click here for the full recipe for Vratwala Dhokla

Did you know that this dhokla is also great for those on a weight-loss diet? Here are other vrat snacks on the same list. Wondering what else you can make with samak chawal? Here's a list of quick recipes.

Happy Chaitra Navratri 2023!



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5 Healthy Flours That Will Make Your Meals More Nutritious And Delicious

All over the world, flour is a common ingredient found in most kitchens. It is used to prepare a wide variety of dishes like bread, rotis and pasta. But, not all flours are healthy and may not be brimming with health benefits. While flour itself is not inherently unhealthy, some flours are less nutritious than others. For instance, all-purpose flour (maida) is highly processed and stripped of its bran, resulting in a loss of fibre and nutrients. If you're looking for healthier alternatives to wheat or all-purpose flour, we've compiled a list of nutritious options that can easily be incorporated into your daily diet.

Here Are 5 Healthy Flours That You Must Add To Your Daily Diet:

1. Chickpea Flour

A staple in Indian cooking, chickpea flour is made from ground chickpeas and has a light, nutty flavour. It's a good substitute for wheat flour if you're looking to cut calories, and it's packed with iron, fibre, and protein.

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Chickpea flour is easily available at any store. Photo Credit: istock

2. Buckwheat Flour

Also known as Kuttu Ka Atta in Hindi, buckwheat flour is a whole grain that is incredibly healthy. It helps manage diabetes, encourages weight loss, and enhances heart health, among other benefits. Plus, it's a great source of fibre, protein, and energy.

Also Read: 5 Best Electric Atta Dough Makers To Buy Online

3. Oat Flour

Made from whole oats, oat flour is easy to make at home by grinding whole oats into a fine powder. Oats are a healthier option than all-purpose flour because they contain more protein and fibre. Plus, their rich texture makes for delicious pancakes, waffles, muffins, and bread.

4. Almond Flour

A great choice for those who eat gluten-free or are diabetic, almond flour is made by grinding almonds into a fine powder. It's a good source of magnesium and omega-3 unsaturated fats and can be used to make cookies, pancakes, bread, and pasta.

Also Read: 5 Best Atta-Based Indian Desserts You Can Try At Home

5. Millet Flour

Millet, also known as Bajra, is a gluten-free grain that is formed into flour. It has a delicate, nutty flavour and is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Millet flour can be used to make cakes, biscuits, rotis, and pancakes at home.

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Bajre ki roti is a staple Indian roti (bread). Photo Credit: istock

Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.



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Egg-citing Eats: Creative Ways To Cook With Eggs For Breakfast, Lunch And Dinner

Just a day left for Navratri, and we are looking for ways to finish up the eggs lying in the refrigerator. While eggs are one of the most popular breakfast foods out there, there's only so much you can cook with them for one meal. You should know that eggs are so versatile that they can be used to make any meal at any time of the day. Plan your full-day menu with eggs without getting bored of the same flavours. We are going to help you prepare different exciting dishes with the same ingredient of eggs. 

Also Read: 9 Indian Egg Recipes You Can Try At Home

Egg-citing Meals All Day Long: Here's A  Full-Day Meal Plan

Egg Recipes For Breakfast 

There are options galore when it comes to making breakfast with eggs. You can make your favourite omelette, or scrambled eggs or simply boil them to make these interesting boiled egg recipes. And if you are feeling adventurous, try this unique Turkish egg or Middle-Eastern Shakshouka, which will surprise your taste buds with a whole new set of flavours. 

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Shakshouka is a popular dish in India now.
Photo Credit: iStock

Egg Recipes For Lunch 

Even tried eggs for lunch? You can actually put together a nice, fulfilling meal. Take the usual roti-sabzi route by making masala egg bhurji, which is made with the same onion-tomato base with lots of masalas. Here's an easy recipe for masala anda bhurji

Or you can make the rich, dense gravy dish of egg curry, again with the familiar Indian spices imbued in the gravy. You can pair this dish with roti, paratha or even with rice. 

Egg Recipes For Evening Snacks 

It's time to brew a hot cup of tea and has a small meal to hold your hunger till dinner time. Pick those eggs from the refrigerator and make delicious snacks. If you ask us, egg pakoda is the best option to make. Crispy fried pakoda with soft egg filling is just the perfect evening snack to pair with your chai. Here's an easy recipe for egg pakoda

Want to avoid fried food? No problem. You can make a lip-smacking egg chaat or egg kebabs, which are roasted not fried.  

Also Read: 5 Oil-Free Egg Recipes You Can Try For Protein-Rich Breakfast

Egg Recipes For Dinner 

Last meal of the day, the last chance to gorge on your favourite eggs. The best dish you can make for a night's meal is a healthy and light egg salad. This salad gives you all the nutrition you need without weighing down your tummy. Click here for some recipes for egg salad

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Egg salad is a light and nutritious meal
Photo Credit: iStock

If you are not a salad lover, you can try this egg fried rice recipe or egg noodles to whet your craving for Chinese flavours. 

Have an egg-licious day! 



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Watch: PM Modi Enjoys Golgappas And More With Japanese PM Kishida

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Japanese counterpart Fumio Kishida had a food-filled day on March 20. The leaders visited the Buddha Jayanti Park in Delhi to carry out discussions about strengthening cultural ties and bilateral relations. As they took a stroll around the park and enjoyed the beautiful weather, they also enjoyed some Indian delicacies. PM Modi introduced PM Kishida to multiple Indian drinks and foods and shared the videos and pictures on Twitter on Monday evening. Take a look:

Also Read: PM Modi Tries Litti Chokha At India Gate:

"A special visit to the Buddha Jayanti Park with my friend, PM Kishida," wrote PM Modi in the caption of the tweet. The duo was also seen enjoying multiple Indian treats including the famous golgappa. Golgappa or pani puri is one of the most-loved street-style snacks across the country. Known by many names, it is basically made of deep-fried puris filled with spicy water, potatoes and chutney. Both the prime ministers looked as if they were thoroughly enjoying the gol gappas. "My friend PM Kishida enjoyed Indian snacks including Golgappas," added PM Modi in his tweet.

Also Read: PV Sindhu Finally Eats Ice Cream With PM Modi, Neeraj Chopra Eats Churma

Apart from golgappa, PM Modi also introduced PM Kishida to some scrumptious fried idlis. Topped with a spicy tempering, the bite-sized treats looked quite delicious. They also relished classic Indian drinks including aam panna, prepared with raw mango pulp. PM Modi and PM Kishida also tried their hands at churning lassi and relishing the refreshing drink later.

Meanwhile, the two leaders took a walk around the Buddha Jayanti park and also sipped tea from earthen cups as seen in the video. "One of the aspects which connect India and Japan is the teachings of Lord Buddha. PM Kishida and I went to the Buddha Jayanti Park in Delhi. Sharing some glimpses," the PM wrote on Twitter. He also gifted the Japanese PM a sapling of the Bal Bodhi tree as per PTI.

What did you think of the food and drinks relished by PM Modi along with his Japanese counterpart? Tell us in the comments.



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Monday, March 20, 2023

Vellai Paniyaram: A Delicious Anytime Snack From The Chettinad Region In Tamil Nadu

A Chettiar wedding in Tamil Nadu's Chettinad region is truly a gourmand's delight. Sandwiched in the arid belt between Pudukottai and Ramanathapuram are the 70 odd villages and towns that make up Chettinad almost every street has a fascinating tale and almost every kitchen can dish up delicious meals. It's the weddings that bring out the best of Chettinad cuisine. The region's cuisine which is still largely a preserve of local cooks is put under the spotlight over days of food binging. It was at one of these weddings that I first sampled the scrumptious Vellai Paniyaram.

More recently I checked this unique dish at Vaadhyar's House in Kannadukathan, a heritage home that has morphed into a chic café that is managed by The Park Hotels. The locals used to refer to this heritage home as Vaadhyar Veedu (or Teacher's house; this has been home to generations of teachers). The name stuck; this café blends and exudes a contemporary vibe with a strong influence of traditional Chettinad architecture.

Are Vellai Paniyaram And Idli Same?

It might resemble an idli (Vellai is Tamil for white) from afar or in blurry food pictures but the vellai paniyaram is not quite the same. It starts with the same prep that combines rice and urad dal but it's the milk that is added after the batter settles and the final step (when these splodges are deep fried). It's the light and crispy texture that sets this snack apart. It's usually served with chutney (see recipe) and works equally well for breakfast or as an afternoon snack.

Also Read: How To Make South Indian-Style Egg Paniyaram For A Quick Breakfast

Vellai Paniyaram Recipe | How To Make Vellai Paniyaram

Recipe courtesy - Vaadhyar's House

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Raw rice, soaked for 2 hours
  • 2 tablespoons black urad dal (Whole), soaked for 2 hours
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • Salt - to taste
  • Oil - for deep frying

Method

  1. For the Vellai Paniyaram batter, wash and soak the raw rice and urad dal in water for 2 hours.
  2. Grind both ingredients to a very smooth mixture in a mixer grinder.
  3. Add only just enough water for it to grind, do not make it watery. Ensure the batter as thick as possible. This is the key step, this dish depends on the consistency of the batter (ideally thinner than dosa batter)
  4. Add sugar and salt to the batter, and let it rest for another hour.
  5. Heat oil in a kadai/ frying pan for deep frying.
  6. Mix the batter well. Add milk to make it watery at this stage.
  7. Drop one tablespoon full of batter into the Kadai. It will rise and puff up. Once the Vellai paniyaram is cooked on one side, flip it and let it fry for a couple of seconds.
  8. Transfer the hot Vellai Paniyaram onto a kitchen towel. Pat the Vellai Paniyaram with an oil absorbent paper to remove excess oil and serve hot!

Inji (ginger ) Chutney

Recipe courtesy - Vaadhyar's House

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup Ginger peeled and chopped. (1 Cup - 250ml)
  • 1 tbsp Urad Dal
  • 1 tbsp Split Bengal Gram or Channa Dal
  • 1/4 tsp Fenugreek Seeds
  • 4 Red chillies - add as per desired spice requirement
  • 4 Kashmiri Red chillies (optional). Can be replaced with 2 red chillies
  • 1 lemon-size tamarind
  • 1 tbsp Grated jaggery
  • 4 tsp Sesame oil

Tempering

  • 1 tbsp Sesame oil
  • 1 tsp Mustard seeds
  • 1 sprig of curry leaves

Method

  1. Take the lemon-sized tamarind in a bowl. Add 1/4 cup of hot water and set it aside for 10 mins.
  2. Wash the ginger thoroughly and peel the skin. Roughly chop the ginger and set it aside.

Preparation

  1. Heat 2 tsp of oil in a heavy-bottomed pan. When the oil is hot, add the Channa dal, urad dal, fenugreek seeds, red chilli and Kashmiri red chilli.
  2. Fry the ingredients till the dal turns light golden colour. Add these ingredients to a mixer jar.
  3. In the same pan, add 2 teaspoons of oil. When the oil is hot, add the roughly chopped ginger.
  4. Sauté the ginger till golden brown. Add to the mixer jar. Allow the ingredients to cool off.

For grinding:

  1. To the mixer jar, add the soaked tamarind along with the water.
  2. Also, add the grated jaggery to this mixture.
  3. Finally, add salt to taste.
  4. Grind the mixture to a smooth, but thick paste. Add a few tablespoons of water while grinding only if required.

For tempering

  1. Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a pan. When the oil is hot, add mustard seeds and allow it to sputter.
  2. Then add the curry leaves and add it to the pan. Mix once. Switch off the flame.
  3. Add this tempering to the chutney. Mix well

Also Read: 7 Best South Indian Snacks Recipes: Banana Chips, Lukhmi and More

Coconut Chutney | Thengai Chutney

Recipe courtesy - Vaadhyar's House

Ingredients

  • 1 Cup grated coconut
  • 2 Tbsp roasted gram dal (Pottukadalai)
  • 3 Green chillies
  • Salt - to taste
  • 1/4 tsp Tamarind paste
  • For tempering
  • 2 tsp Coconut oil
  • 1 tsp Mustard seeds
  • 2 tsp Split urad dal
  • Curry leaves
  • 2 Red chillies

Instructions

  1. Take grated coconut, green chilli, salt, tamarind paste, roasted gram and add it to a mixer jar and grind all ingredients to a smooth paste.
  2. Heat oil in a pan. Add mustard seeds and allow it to splutter.
  3. Add split urad dal and sauté till the dal turns light brown. Then add curry leaves and halved red chillies. Switch off the flame.
  4. Add this tempering to the Coconut Chutney and finish.


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Sunday, March 19, 2023

Arjun Kapoor And Malaika Arora's Food Diaries Left Us Drooling - See Pics

Who doesn't like digging into fluffy and wholesome pancakes? Whether you prefer sweet or savoury, these yummy delights always offer a lot of room for creativity. And, the best part is pancakes are healthy, filling and satisfying. Plus, they taste super delicious. Looks like Arjun Kapoor also shares our love for these fluffy treats! The actor relished a platter of pancakes to make his Sunday, a “funday.” The delectable meal featured three pancakes, with almond, banana slices and caramel syrup topping. Yum, isn't it?

Take a look:

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Also Read: Arjun Kapoor Eats Yummy Breakfast In Maldives, Malaika Arora Says 'DND'

In case Arjun Kapoor's indulgence has left you craving, we have handpicked some of the best pancake recipes for you to try out. From banana pancakes with caramelised apples to spinach pancakes, click here to get all the recipes. 

Well, Arjun Kapoor was not the only celebrity who made us drool with his Sunday meal. His girlfriend, actress Malaika Arora, who keeps fans (including us) updated with her foodie shenanigans, also enjoyed a “post-show gufff”, which looked every bit yummy. We could spot some curry, bread, some crackers and also what looked like pakoras on her dining table. Malaika was accompanied by her friends Delnaz and fashion designer Vikram Phadnis. 

Check out her post here: 

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What did you think of Arjun Kapoor and Malaika Arora's food diaries? Tell us in the comments. 



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What's The Quickest Way To Make Aam Papad? Check Out This Recipe

Don't you just love aam papad? This layered snack is one of the best ways to enjoy mangoes, especially during summer when the fruit is widely available. Aam papad comes in many versions and each varies slightly. Although mangoes remain the key ingredient, the taste may range from sweet to tangy to spicy to anything in between! What many of us may not know is that aam papad can easily be made at home. It does not require any complex processing or unusual ingredients. If you are used to buying prepackaged versions, you should try out our quick recipe. You will realise that nothing can beat the delight of homemade aam papad.

Traditionally, aam papad is made by keeping the mixture dry under direct sunlight (Recipe here). While there is nothing wrong with this method, it is not convenient for everyone. Furthermore, it takes many hours, depending on the sun's intensity. Hence, we have come up with a recipe for making aam papad in a microwave. Using this technique, your mango papad will be ready in less than 4 hours. Check out our step-by-step recipe below. 

Also Read: Move Over Aam Papad, Try Sweet And Tangy Jamun Papad Ready In 30 Minutes

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Aam papad is a great recipe to preserve mangoes in a delicious form. Photo: iStock

How To Make Aam Papad At Home Using Microwave | Quick Mango Papad Recipe

  1. Cut 3-4 mangoes and remove the pulp. Add it to a blender along with sugar to taste.
  2. Add extra seasonings of choice: cardamom powder, chilli powder, chaat masala (any one or all). Add a pinch of salt.
  3. Blend the pulp to make a smooth, lump-free paste. If it is too thick, add a little water and blend again.
  4. Line a baking tray with parchment paper. Pour the pulp mixture and spread it evenly across the tray. Ensure that you flatten it carefully with a spatula or other tools.
  5. Bake it at 80-100 degrees celsius for 3 to 3.5 hours. It should be completely dried.
  6. Once done, allow it to cool for some time. Then cut and roll the papad in whichever shapes you desire.
  7. You can stack the pieces on top of one another for that special texture.

Also Read: Are Your Berries Getting Spoilt? Make Viral 'Fruit Leather' Recipe With It

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Tips For Making Perfect Aam Papad:

  • After blending the pulp and seasonings, transfer the mixture into a bowl and use a whisk to combine the ingredients some more and introduce some air into the mixture.
  • Always taste the mixture before you spread it out on the baking tray. Mangoes may taste sweet when eaten but may seem rather sour once blended.
  • Some recipes suggest cooking the pulp on a medium flame for a few minutes, if it is too thin. The heat thickens the mixture and may also help enhance the flavour. However, this would depend on the consistency of your mango pulp.

How To Make Aam Papad Without Sugar?

There is no rule that says Aam papad has to contain sugar. It is recommended to use sweet mangoes whether or not you add sugar. You can use sieved jaggery powder in place of sugar if you want a sweet papad. However, you can also choose to add nothing at all and enjoy a tangy-spicy papad. The rest of the preparation method remains the same.

Try making this aam papad as soon as you get your hands on some mangoes! Let us know how it turns out.



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5 Breakfast Oats Recipes To Add Protein And Fibre To Weight Loss Diet

Weight loss routine should start right from the time you wake up. Breakfast plays an important role in fuelling your body for the day, and if you want to lose weight, enrich your morning meal with foods that help. Oats are an excellent food for weight loss and are popularly consumed as a healthy breakfast option. Also known as 'jaie' in Hindi, they are rich in protein and fibre, making them a great addition to a healthy diet. Oats are not only quick and easy to make but they can also be fashioned into a range of interesting dishes.  

Are Oats Good For Weight Loss? 

According to macrobiotic nutritionist Shilpa Arora, "Oats are rich in fibre, which helps you feel full and prevents binge eating. Having oats for breakfast is one of the best ways to ensure you lose weight. The fibre in oats takes time to digest, so it gives you a fuller feeling and prevents you from overeating." 
Also Read: 

Oats are also high in protein, which is essential for building muscles and keeping blood sugar levels stable, preventing insulin spikes that can lead to fat storage. Now let's see how you can include oats in your breakfast diet. 

Also Read: 

Almond and Banana Oats

Oats are popularly consumed for breakfast.

Here're 5 Breakfast Oats Recipes For Weight Loss: 

1. Almond and Banana Oats Porridge 

Oats porridge is the most commonly-known recipe that people make with oats. But most of them make it unhealthy by adding sugar and no other healthy ingredients. This oats porridge adds the goodness of almonds, banana, chia seeds and oats, and sweetens it with just a dash of honey. Click here for the recipe of almond and banana oats porridge.

2. Oats Idli 

Give your south Indian favourite a healthy makeover with this recipe. This idli, made with oats combined with protein-rich urad dal and chana dal, is just the tasty treat you need in the morning. Click here for the step-by-step recipe for low-cal oats idli.

3. Oats Matar Cheela 

Cheela is a quintessential breakfast delight. Add more health and flavour to it with oats and matar. Both foods are rich in protein, which makes this cheela a must-have in your weight loss diet. Click here for the recipe for oats matar cheela. 

4. Oats Pancake 

We love pancakes for breakfast but not for weight loss. But now you can continue enjoying it by replacing maida with oats powder and adding buttermilk, along with eggs and cinnamon for a nutritious meal. Skip adding sugar, and if you want to sweeten it, add some honey. Click here for the recipe for the oats pancake. 

5. Masala Oats 

Go desi for your morning meal with oats. This oats dish is loaded with your favourite veggies and masala to treat your taste buds and tummy at the same time. Make sure to prepare in little oil or ghee and enjoy a fulfilling breakfast. Click here for the recipe for masala oats

Including oats in your diet can help with weight loss and provide numerous health benefits. Include these recipes in your breakfast menu.  



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Scoop Up These 5 Irresistible Indian Sweets and Ice Cream Combinations

Sweet cravings can be irresistible and desserts are often seen as the ultimate reward for a hard day's work. With a multitude of options available, it can be difficult to decide what to indulge in. But as fusion cuisine becomes increasingly popular, people are looking for new and creative ways to satisfy their sweet tooth. The combination of traditional Indian sweets, or "mithai," with ice cream has become a popular trend. These innovative and delicious dessert pairings offer a unique twist on classic desserts, making them a must-try for anyone with a love of sweets and a sense of culinary adventure.

Here Are 5 Delicious Indian Sweet and Ice Cream Combinations That You Must Try:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream with Gulab Jamun:

This combination is simply unbeatable. The warm, soft, and sugary gulab jamuns are deep-fried dough balls that are then soaked in sugar syrup, and they pair perfectly with the cold, creamy vanilla ice cream.

2. Kulfi with Jalebi

The thought of this mouthwatering combination will have you drooling. Most of us have tried the syrupy jalebis with rabri, but for a unique twist, try pairing the hot jalebis with kulfi made with rabri.

Also Read: 11 Delicious, Sugar-Free Indian Desserts You Can Make At Home

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3. Pista Ice Cream with Rasmalai

You can't forget the extra-soft rasmalai, with its distinctive flavors of pistachios, milk, and sugar. Pair this sweet with a generous scoop of pista ice cream, and you have the perfect combination.

4. Strawberry Ice Cream with Rasgulla

If you've never heard of rasgulla paired with strawberry ice cream, you're in for a surprise. Simply scoop in some ice cream with spongy rasgullas, and enjoy the heavenly dessert combination.

5. Kaju Barfi with Cassata

Cassata is a unique ice cream that's bursting with flavors. It consists of round sponge cake moistened with fruit juices and layered with ice cream. To make it even more decadent, grate kaju barfi and sprinkle it on top of your cassata slice.

We hope you enjoy these Indian sweet and ice cream combinations. Let us know in the comments which one is your favourite!



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Take Pizza Night To The Next Level With These Fun And Easy Pizza Cones

Pizza is one of the most beloved foods, and what's better than making it at home with a twist? We all love pizza, with its soft bread and delicious toppings, but have you ever tried making pizza cones? This is a great weekend activity to do with your family and friends. Pizza cones are versatile, unique, and easy to hold. You can quickly make hot, cheesy pizza cones loaded with your favourite toppings at home. The best part is you can add anything of your choice and customise it the way you like. These cones are a fun way to spice up your pizza party at home.
Also Read: Cooking Tips: How To Use Leftover Pizza? 5 Unique Snacks With A Pizza Twist

How to Make the Perfect Pizza Dough:

Preparing pizza dough is the most crucial step. It can be tricky, but it's quite simple once you get the hang of it. Using the right method is important because we don't want a super hard pizza crust or an extremely soft one that won't hold the shape of the cone. To make the perfect pizza dough, you will need flour. You can use refined flour, but if you want a healthier option, then using wheat flour would be a good choice. Next, you will need yeast, which, when mixed with water, activates and starts the fermentation process in the dough, giving it fluffiness. We will also require sugar, salt, and a few spices to add to the flour to enhance the taste of the dough. Click here for the step-by-step recipe.
 

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Preparing pizza dough requires simple ingredients and basic kneading skills. Photo Credit: iStock

How to Shape the Pizza Cone:

To make a pizza cone, it is essential to design and structure the cone in a way that it doesn't have any loose ends or gaps, as this may result in sauce leakage from the cone. All you need is glass; it would be a better choice to use steel or aluminium glass instead of easily breakable glass because you will have to put a little pressure on the glass to shape the dough. Just take the rolled dough sheet, put it on the sides of the glass, and form it in the shape of a cone. Ensure fix the sides to avoid leakage. You can also reuse soda drink cans to shape the cone in the same method.
Also Read: Weekend Binge: 5 Unique Pizzas You Can Make Under 30 Minutes

How to Make Pizza Cones in Simple Steps

These are the basic steps you need to follow to make the pizza cone.

  • Prepare the dough. Make sure it is fermented properly.
  • Next, prepare the pizza sauce. The sauce is made from cooked tomato puree, which is the main ingredient of the recipe.
  • Prepare the pizza cones with the help of a glass.
  • Slice the vegetables and meat of your choice. This could be zucchini, mushrooms, corn, olives, chicken, pepperoni, etc.
  • Now, spread some homemade pizza sauce with the help of a spoon, add in the toppings, and put in a generous amount of cheese.
  • On top, add seasonings of your choice.
  • The final step is to cook the pizza in the oven. For this, you can put cones in the aluminium glass and place them in the oven.

For the detailed recipe, click here.

Enjoy the weekend with this fulfilling recipe!
Also Read: 5 Easy and Cheesy Mug Pasta Recipes Ready In Less Than 10 Min



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Anupam Kher Relished This Epic Kashmiri Dish For Breakfast

Anupam Kher can't get enough of home-cooked treats. His wonderful food diaries feature a range of traditional Indian dishes which he enjoys. Well, we have to admit that he continues to amaze us with his various culinary adventures. Anupam Kher binged on a mouth-watering breakfast on Sunday. His weekend indulgence included a popular Kashmiri dish called chhir chot. Sometimes called chawal ki roti, chhir chot is a kind of Kashmiri pancake made using rice flour and ajwain. The actor shared an Instagram Story showcasing his meal.In the clip, you can see the actor who is seated at filmmaker Ashoke Pandit's house, gushing over "chawal ki roti," made by Ashoke's wife Neerja Pandit. The pan-fried dish looked utterly delightful. Anupam says, “I have come to Ashoke Pandit's house. Now, I am going to dig into this appetising chhir chot, chawal ki roti made by his wife Neerja ji.” Addressing the viewers, the veteran actor says, “Now, I'll eat this and you all can feel it.” See a screengrab from the video below:

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Also Read: Anupam Kher And His Mother's Banter About His Food Habits Is So Relatable
How often do you savour desi pancakes at home? If you are someone who likes to satiate their rumbling tummies with this drool-worthy dish, refer to the list of recipes below. These are five tasty Indian pancake-like dishes that can be prepared for breakfast.  

1. Besan ka cheela
Made with the goodness of chickpeas and other homely masalas, this besan ka cheela screams indulgence. It can be relished for breakfast as well as for brunch on the weekend. Make this at home and pair it with ketchup or a blob of mint chutney. Recipe here.  

2. Pesarattu (green gram dosa)
Want to try your hands on a healthy breakfast item? Pesarattu is the answer. Originating in Andhra Pradesh, this dish carries whole green gram and spices, of course. Blessed with a plethora of nutrients, you must include green grams into your diet. Find the recipe here.

3. Oats and vegetable pancakes
If you are bored with the regular way of eating oats, it's time to give it a little twist. You can make this quick and delectable oats and vegetable pancake perfect for the first meal of the day. Indeed, the combination of oats and vegetables stands out in this dish. Click here for the recipe.

4. Paneer besan chilla
Looking for a heavy and filling breakfast rich in protein? Go for this amazing paneer besan chilla. For this, you have to make a batter, first. After this, prepare a usual pancake on a tawa or pan. Once it turns golden brown and crispy, assemble some grated paneer on top along with onion, black pepper, and coriander leaves. Fold it and serve hot. Recipe here.    

5. Spinach pancakes with oats and walnuts
You can always trust this mouth-watering recipe for a nutritious breakfast. Combine the delicacy with cottage cheese, walnuts, and honey for a good experience. Find the recipe here.    

We hope these recipes come in handy whenever you decide on cooking traditional pancakes at home.
Also Read: List Of Most Fast Food-Obsessed Countries In The World. The First One Is...



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5 Restaurants In Indirapuram That Have Become Favourites Of The Area

The NCR has come up in a big way and now you don't have to go all the way to Delhi for anything, not at least for eating out. Take Indirapuram, for instance. The area is buzzing with a host of restaurants, cafes and bars, and will cater to all kinds of cravings. With good food, a good ambience and good music, you will find whatever you are looking for here. We came across some really good restaurants located in Indirapuram and listed them down here. Visit these places if you haven't already.
Also Read: These 9 Oldest Running Restaurants In Delhi Will Show You Another Side Of The Capital

Here're 5 Restaurants In Indirapuram You Must Visit:

1. The Beer House Cafe

Unwind your hectic day with beer and some interesting cocktails at The Beer House Cafe. It's not just the beverages that will entice you, the food here is pretty good too. Try their Chicken Shawarma, Fish Fingers and Corn Salt and Pepper next time you visit. The menu offers a wide range of Italian, European and Mexican foods.

Where: First Floor, Indirapuram Habitat Centre
When: 11 am - 11:30 pm
Cost: INR 2000 for two (approx.)

2. Paprika Park

Looking for a quiet dinner with family? There's another place In the Indirapuram Habitat Centre, you should try. Paprika Park is a multi-cuisine restaurant offering North Indian, Chinese and Mughlai cuisines. Don't worry there's a bar too in case you want to drink, and there is a special menu for bar food too. Their corn tikki, dahi ke kebab, Chinese platter and rose ice cream from the dessert section are quite popular.

Where: First Floor, Indirapuram Habitat Centre
Cost: INR 1,700 for two people (approx.) without alcohol

Also Read: 12 New Restaurants In Delhi-NCR On Every Foodie's Bucket List

3. Mystery Of Food

Mystery Of Food is the place to relax with great food and even better cocktails. Pick from north Indian or Chinese or Thai cuisine and enjoy a wonderful dining experience. While you are there, do try their Mutton Gilafi Seekh Kebabs, Paneer Tikka Pudina and Haryali Kebab.

Where: Eros Market Place, Shakti Khand 2, Indirapuram, Ghaziabad
When: 12:30 pm - 11.30 pm
Cost: 2,500 for two people (approx.)

4. Pind Balluchi

If your stomach is hankering for a desi Indian meal, just head to Pind Balluchi and gorge on heart-warming dishes like Dal Baluchi, Paneer Lababadar and Masala Chaap. And don't forget to pair your meal with the super tasty mango lassi.

Where: Shop 379, 1st Floor, J Block, Indirapuram Habitat Center
When: When: 11 am - 11 pm
Cost: INR 1,400 for two people (approx.)

Also Read: Love Parathas? You Cannot Miss Out On These 11 Famous Paratha Joints In Delhi

5. Reader's Cafe

Love to read? This café is perfect for you. Enjoy mouth-watering delights while turning the pages of an interesting book at the Reader's Café. With their wooden shelves lined up with all kinds of books, and wooden seating to enjoy these books, the place will offer you a good break. Choose from the range of Italian and Continental dishes on the menu.

Where: Indirapuram Habitat Centre
When: 11 am - 11:00 pm
Cost: INR 1,200 for two (approx.)

Choose one of these spots the next time you wish to eat out in Indirapuram!
 



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