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Yummy Mixed Veggies!!

This is one of my easiest !

I have been making this mixed vegetable for a while now.. the reason why it came into existence is because my friends sometimes just like to drop in unannounced and of course we chat and then its almost dinner time! So here is something that has a lot of veggies, is good for health and the taste buds love it! and yes! its super quick!!

I must thank all my friends who have appreciated this recipe over time and have asked me for the recipe about a million times.. it is your persuasion that has helped me put this up on the blog. Enjoy!

PS - this is also going to be part of my "ONE-PAN" Recipe series.

INGREDIENTS:

Onion - 1 medium, fine chopped (Opional)

Tomato - 1 medium, fine chopped (Optional)

Green Chilli - 1 small,chopped

Milk/ Creme- 1-2 cup, depending on how thick you want the gravy.

Bag of Mixed Veggies

Fresh Coriander - small bunch, chopped

Cumin Seeds (Jeera) - 1 tsp 

Asafoetida (Hing) - a pinch

Turmeric (Haldi)- 1 tsp

Kitchen King Masala - 1.5 tsp (I use MDH brand)

Shah Jeera (Caraway Seeds) - 1 tsp (optional)

Ghee - 1 tsp (optional)

Oil - 2 tbsp

Salt to taste

OPTIONAL: Before you serve, add tadka with ghee and shah jeera

COOKING TIME: 20 mins

SERVING: Serves 4.

METHOD:

1. Pour oil in a pan, heat it. 

2. Add Cumin seeds, let them splutter.

3. Add Asafoetida and Turmeric powder, move the oil mix. 

4. Add Onion and fry till golden. Add tomatoes and cook till oil separates. (If you are in a real hurry, you can omit the onion and tomatoes and it will still taste great!)

5. Add the bag of veggies and cook covered till done. Make sure the heat is low to medium.

6. Add Kitchen King Masala. Mix in, cook for 3-4 mins. Add Green Chillis.

7. Add milk or if you want it thicker and richer, add creme. Mix well. Remove from fire. (You can add as much milk/creme as you want, to make gravy. I add just enough to move the masala, so mine is like a dry preparation.)

8. Add Salt to taste. Garnish with fresh coriander.

9. To Serve: Add tadka with Shah Jeera spluttered in hot Ghee.

Let me know what you think !!!

'Shahi Paneer' on the occasion of the Shahi (Royal) Wedding

I began writing this post right after the Royal Wedding and somehow did not publish it.. I remember how that one day became an unconventional Valentines Day for all of us.. and was a celebration of relationships all over the globe. Love can truly unite us all...
Although a little delayed.. I hope everyone reading the blog will enjoy this recipe.
Best!

Many Congratulations to the Royal Couple.. William and Kate. Their wedding was celebrated throughout the world today and it reminded us of the wonderful time we had during ours. I was inspired to put together a quick and easy 'One-Pan' Recipe of Shahi Paneer because I love the Mughlai Cuisine and my hubby loves Paneer - oh! the perfect marriage!


INGREDIENTS:

Onion - 1 medium, fine chopped
Tomato - 1 medium, fine chopped
Ginger - 1/2 inch cube, minced
Green Chilli - 1 small, slit through the middle
Milk - 1-2 cup, depending on how thick you want the gravy.
Paneer - 200gms / about 7oz
Fresh Coriander - small bunch, chopped
Shah Jeera (Caraway Seeds) - 1 tsp
Coriander Powder (Dhania) - 1 tsp
Dry Mango Powder (Amchoor) - 1 tsp
Turmeric (Haldi)- 1 tsp
Garam Masala - 1/2 tsp
Green Cardamom (Choti Elaichi) - 1 or 2
Oil - 2 tbsp
Salt to taste

OPTIONAL: Cashew (Kaju) - 4 or 5 kept in water for 30 mins, then made into a paste

COOKING TIME: 30 mins

SERVING: Serves 2

METHOD:

1. Pour oil in a pan, heat it.
2. Add Shah Jeera, fry for a few seconds. Add Green Chilli, stir.
3. Add onions and fry until golden.
4. Add Tomatoes and cook till oil separates.
5. Add ginger, mix in.
6. Add Turmeric Powder, Coriander Powder, Amchoor, Elaichi,and Salt. Cook for a few minutes. (At this point you can also add the cashew paste, if you want to make a rich gravy).

7. Add Milk, mix in.
8. Add Garam Masala, mix in. Slowly add the paneer, turning them over to lap up the gravy.
9. Remove from fire. Add Fresh Coriander and Serve.

For this recipe it is important to cook the onion and tomato well. Raw taste of the veggies would not bring out the aroma of the spices as they should and the texture of the gravy will not be the best. I prefer doing it on slow fire, turning the onion and tomatoes every now and then.

Peach Truffle Cake

Celebrating a friend's Birthday.. with a yummy treat that's appealing not only to those taste buds but also for the eye. An egg-less cake that is just as moist and fluffy. My recipe is simple and quick to put together. Try it out ! Here goes -


INGREDIENTS:

Fresh Peaches - 2 OR Canned Peach - 2 cups
Chocolate Frosting - 1/2 cup
Flour - 1 and 1/2 cup
Powdered Sugar - 1 cup
Water - 1 cup
Salt - 1/2 tsp
Baking Soda - 1 tsp
Vanilla Flavoring - 1 tsp
Chocolate Truffles - 1/2 cup
Vinegar - 1 tbsp
Curd - 3 to 4 tbsp
Oil - 2 tbsp

COOKING TIME: 45 mins

SERVING: Serves 8 to 10

METHOD:

1. Mix the Flour,Chocolate Truffles, Baking Powder, Sugar and Salt together.
2. Add Oil to the mixture, fold it in.
3. Add Vinegar and Curd to the mixture, fold it in.
4. Add Vanilla Flavoring, fold it in.
5. Add half the Peaches and Water, mix it in and prepare the mixture to an even consistency.
6. Pour the mixture onto a baking pan.
7. Bake for 35 minutes at 350 degrees.

Once the cake is done, set it aside to cool. Spread some chocolate frosting and top with sliced peaches.
Serve with fresh fruit salad.. Enjoy !!

Chocolate Frosting
Chocolate frosting is easily available in any grocery store. However, if you prefer something homemade, try this easy RECIPE to make some for yourself.

Dhaasu Rajma Chawal ! (Spicy Kidney Beans Curry with Rice)

INGREDIENTS:

Rajma (Kidney Beans) - 1 1/2 cups, soaked
Onion - 1 large, fine chopped
Red Bell-pepper - 1 medium, fine chopped
Tomato - 2 medium, fine chopped
Ginger - 1/2 inch cube, minced
Green Chilli - 2 small, chopped
Fresh Coriander - small bunch, chopped
Tej Patta (Bay Leaf) - 1 medium
Bhuna Jeera - 1 1/2 tsp
Shah Jeera - 1 tsp
Badi /Kali Elaichi (Black Cardamom) - 1
Cloves - 2 or 3
Coriander Powder - 1/2 tsp
Garam Masala - 1/2 tsp
Oil - 1 tbsp
Salt to taste

COOKING TIME: 30 mins

SERVING: Serves 4

METHOD:

1. Pressure cook the Rajma that was soaked over night and keep aside. Or in the alternative, add the soaked Rajma to the masala already made and pressure cook together.
2. Pour half the oil in a pan, heat it. Add Onion and fry. Keep aside when done.
3. Pour the rest of the oil, keep on high.

4. Add the bell peppers, fry till bellpeppers are lightly browned.
5. Reduce heat to a little less than medium. Add the bay leaf, Badi /Kali Elaichi, Cloves and Shah Jeera. Fry for half a minute. Add the Green Chillies and Ginger, fry for half a minute.
6. Add the tomatoes, fry till oil separates.
7. Mix in the cooked Rajma. Add Coriander Powder, Bhuna Jeera and salt to taste.
8. Cook till the flavors mingle.
9. Add Garam Masala, mix in. Add fresh coriander and remove from fire.

Serve with hot Roti or Naan. Or pour a generous amount over a bowl of rice.
Enjoy !!

TASTY TIP: The Badi/ Kali Elaichi (Black Cardamom) is added for flavor. It can get over powering sometimes, specially if it opens and the seeds disperse. I remove it from the curry before adding the Garam Masala, to ensure there is not too much of a god thing.. sometimes less is more!

Aalu Bhurji (Potatoes Scrambled?) Dont go by the name, just TRY it !

Hey Friends ! I'm back again after a nice long vacation. I learnt a few new tricks this season and will share them along the way... for now lets talk about this dish -

This was a pure accident. Being jet-lagged is a horrible thing.. as I woke up one morning... pretty early... I thought of preparing breakfast instead of getting bored through my head. I began my preps for a real spicy 'Anda Bhurji' which is the Indian version of the scrambled egg.. made with onions and tomatoes and lots of spices!  Now when I reached for the eggs, I realized there weren't any. In all my huff and puff I decided to improvise and  use potatoes instead.. so here goes.. Hope you'll like it !!

INGREDIENTS:

Onion - 1 medium, fine chopped
Red Bell-pepper - 1/2 medium, fine chopped
Tomato - 1 medium, fine chopped
Ginger - 1/2 inch cube, minced
Green Chilli - 1 small, chopped
Potato - 2 medium, fine chopped
Fresh Coriander - small bunch, chopped
Black Pepper - 1/2 tsp
Oil - 2 tbsp
Salt to taste


COOKING TIME: 20 mins

SERVING: Serves 2

METHOD:

1. Pour oil in a pan, heat it. Keep on high heat.
2. Add onions and fry for 1 min.

3. Add the bell peppers, fry till Onion and the Peppers are lightly browned.
4. Reduce heat to a little less than medium. Add the tomatoes, fry till oil separates.
5. Add the potatoes, mix in. Cook till the potatoes are done.
6. Add all the masalas, mix in. Cook till the flavors mingle.

7. Garnish with fresh coriander.
8. Serve with hot toast and chutneys. (Ketchup would work just as well)

Enjoy !!

TIP: Don't cover the potatoes to cook or they will become sticky.

Veggie Hakka Noodles / Vegetable Chowmien

Hello Foodies..
What's cooking?!! It has been straight cut regular Indian meals for us for a while.. needed a change. Veg noodles are my favorite and they are made differently in different parts of the world... I remember how much we enjoyed the simplicity of the noodles we had in China.. decided to go for it today! It turned out great !Try it for yourself and let me know what you think !!


Veggie Hakka Noodles

INGREDIENTS:

Egg Noodles / Angel Hair Pasta - 1 pack
Onion - 1 medium, sliced
Red Bell-pepper - 1 medium, sliced
Green Bell-pepper - 1 small, sliced
Cabbage - 1/2 medium, sliced
Ginger - 1 inch cube, minced
Garlic - 2 to3, minced
Hot Chili Paste - 1 to 2 tsp
Soy Sauce - 3 tbsp
White Vinegar - 1 to 2 tsp (to taste)
Black Pepper - 2 tsp
Oil - 2 tbsp
Sugar - 1 tsp (optional)
Salt to taste


COOKING TIME: 25 - 30 mins

SERVING: Serves 4

METHOD:

1. Fill water in a deep pot, add salt and 1/2 tsp oil, keep on high flame to boil.
2. When the water begins to boil, add the egg noodles / pasta to cook for 5 - 7 minutes.
3. Heat a wok, add oil and keep on high flame.
4. Add sliced onion, stir fry for a minute.
5. Add ginger and garlic, mix in.
6. Add the vegetables, stir fry for 2 to 3 minutes.
7. Drain the noodles / pasta into a colander. Transfer it into a pot of cold water.
8. Once the vegetables are done, reduce flame to medium or less. Drain the noodles / pasta well and add to the vegetables.
9. Mix the noodles / pasta well with the veggies and cook for five minutes.
10. Add hot chili paste, soy sauce, vinegar, salt, sugar and black pepper. Take off of flame and mix well.

To Serve -
11. This noodle could be added to a stew or soup.
12. As seen in the pictures here, I added some chili oil and soy sauce and garnished with fresh coriander. Enjoy !

I have not been able to devote time to taking pictures and writing the recipes in the past month or so... Hope to pick up some of it this month. Super excited about my new Nikon D90. It has taken a lot of work and research to finally get my first DSLR.. and now that I have it, I'm enjoying the learning curve again. Hope you too like the new pictures!

Tangy Pear Cooler

Its been fun experimenting with fruits ! Here is one more to add to the list !
I was craving for an iced cooler and did not want to add sugar based syrups, so I used fruits and juice instead.

DO try it out !

INGREDIENTS:

Ripe Pear - 1 to 2, cut in cubes
Orange - 1, peeled and seeded
Grapefruit - 1/2 to 1, peeled and seeded
Ripe Banana - 1/2, sliced
Guava Juice - 1/2 cup
Ice - 1 cup crushed or shaved

COOKING TIME: 10 minutes

SERVING: Serves 2

 

METHOD:

1. Cut all the fruits.
2. Put all the fruits into a blender and blend in.
3. Add some Guava Juice, blend again.

To Serve -
4. Add half of the shaved or crushed ice into beverage glasses.
5. Pour in the fruit mix half way.
6. Add the rest of the ice shavings.
7. Pour in the rest of the fruit mix to fill the glass.
8. Pour in the remaining Guava Juice, see it sink into the ice to create a band of color.
9.Top up with Pear slices !

This recipe is part of Divya's "Show me your Smoothie" Event.

Tangy Pear Cooler is now linked with Foodista. Readers looking for Packham Triumph Pear would also be able to view recipes of the same with just a click. Enjoy !

Packham Triumph Pear

Pineapple Lychee Smoothie

Its getting warmer by the day.. and evenings are pleasant with cool breezes.. We're really enjoying summer now ! What better time to enjoy pure tropical bliss..!

Pineapple is my favorite tropical fruit. I love how juicy they are.. and the balance of sweet and tangy bold flavor of the fruit totally blows me away. Although pineapples are available all year round, the best time to savor the ripe ones is between March and July.

Here is my little experiment with Pineapple and Lychee as the main ingredients. I added some Banana to add more sweet and to get a thicker consistency. I am thrilled that the combination works and yea, hubby liked it a lot ! Its a success !! Please try it out and send me some feedback !!!!

INGREDIENTS:

Fresh Pineapple - 1, chopped into cubes, 2 cubes shaved & 1 slice for the topping
Ripe Banana - 1/2
Fresh Lychee - 6 to 8, peeled and seeded OR
Lychee Juice - 1/2 cup
Buttermilk - 3 to 4 tbsp
Cheery - for topping


COOKING TIME: 10 minutes

SERVING: Serves 2

METHOD:

1. Cut all the fruits. Pineapple in cubes, Banana into coins, Lychee into halves.
2. Put all the fruits into a blender and blend in.
3. Add the buttermilk, blend again.
4. Pour out the smoothie into beverage glasses.

To Serve -
5. Top it up with shaved Pineapple, Pineapple slice and Lychee with Cherry on top!

This smoothie is full of pulp and unique flavors. Enjoy it chilled, add crushed ice for extra chill power.
Enjoy !


This recipe is part of  Spicy Tastyz "Sizzling Summer Contest"

This recipe is part of Divya's "Show me your Smoothie" Event.

Check out the Show Me Your Smoothie Round-Up HERE !!!

Peachy Mango Smoothie

California Peaches are available from April through October. Summer is the best time to use the ripe n sweet peaches in a smoothie.. and this year I am loving the Mangoes. We still have not found Indian Mangoes in the store, however, the Mexican ones are just as yummm !

This smoothie was a real experiment. I was not sure if all the flavors would work together.. but they turned out just fine and I am thrilled about that! I have used some fresh apple too in this one, and that kinda changes the consistency of the drink to more viscous. I used ice-cream spoons to scoop it instead. To keep it drinkable, you may want to use apple juice.

INGREDIENTS:

Fresh Peaches - 1 to 2, cut in half and seeded, 1/4 chopped finely
Fresh Mango - 1, cut into cubes OR
Tinned Mango Pulp - 1.5 cup
Fresh Apple - 1/2 cut into cubes OR
Apple Juice - 1/2 cup
Plain Yogurt - 2 tbsp
Water as needed

COOKING TIME: 10 minutes

SERVING: Serves 2

METHOD:

1. Cut all the fruits. Peaches in halves, Mango in cubes, Apple in cubes.
2. Put all the fruits into a blender and blend in.
3. Add the yogurt and 1/4 cup water (if needed to adjust consistency), blend again.
4. Pour out the smoothie into beverage glasses.
5. Add crushed ice.

To Serve -
6. Top it up with cut peaches.
I used Mango as the topping here just because its in season now.

Alternatively, you can blend in the crushed ice into the smoothie. If you are using fruit juices instead of fresh fruits, there will be no need to add water. Feel free to add more yogurt for a thicker smoothie.

Enjoy !!


This recipe is part of Divya's "Show me your Smoothie" Event.

Mangoes are my favorites.. its amazing how many times I have had to update this post with all the requests from readers. I probably cant thank everyone enough ! Thank you all for trying out the smoothies and for leaving feedback. July is almost here and we can still find some real nice mangoes in the market.. these are the mexican variety, nevertheless, they are really great.. I've had a whole month of Mango Bliss !! YUMM !! YUMM !!!
The Peachy Mango Smoothie is now linked with Foodista. Readers looking for MANGOES will now be able to view recipes of the same with just a click. Enjoy !

Mango

Strawberry Mint Smoothie

Hubby and I enjoy eating healthy. However, I've been feeling that we dont eat a lot of fruits.. and it almost gets impossible to get the daily recommended doze. I like juices, but I often wonder if drinking packaged juices is any good?
Gradually we have been introducing changes into our eating habits to ensure we consume more fruits.. at least a few varieties everyday. My smoothie series is all about getting more fruits into our routine. The Smoothie thought is inspired by a very close friend who loves to cook and is always ready to whip up new recipes every time we meet up!! Thanks Suraj for your inspiring ways....


INGREDIENTS:

Fresh Strawberries - 5 to 6, cut in half and 1 to 2 chopped or sliced
Ripe Banana - 1/2
Ripe Guava - 1 small OR
Guava Juice - 1/3 cup
Fresh Mint Leaves - 4 to 5
Plain Yogurt - 2 to 3 tbsp

COOKING TIME: 10 minutes

SERVING: Serves 2



METHOD:

1. Cut all the fruits. Strawberries in halves, Banana into coins, Guava into 4 to 6 pieces.
2. Put all the fruits into a blender and blend in.
3. Add the yogurt and 2 to 3 Fresh Mint leaves, blend again.
4. Add the chopped strawberries to the bottom of your beverage glass.
5. Pour out the smoothie into beverage glasses.

To Serve -
5. Top it up with sliced Strawberries and Mint leaves.

Enjoy !!

This recipe is part of:
Divya's "Show me Your Smothie" Event !
"RC - 23 Smoothies & Milk Shakes" - An IHM Event !

Mathra (Dried Peas Recipe) Chaat !

Mathra is a very popular North Indian "Chaat". It is made of Dried Yellow Peas. [Matar means Peas in Hindi, Mathra is made of peas.] It is a coveted item on the Menu list in Weddings and Celebrations across North India. I love it spicy and tangy, just the way it is sold by the local chaat-wala (usually street hawkers) in the bazaar!

It is eaten with a number of accompaniments or sometimes its good all by itself. This could very well be a distant cousin of Ghugni, which is a Bengali favorite (a preparation from the Eastern part of India). This is a simple recipe which is very easy to prepare, takes very little time and is always appreciated.

INGREDIENTS:

Yellow Peas - 2 cups, soaked overnight
Cloves - 3 to 4
Black Pepper - 3 to 4
Haldi (Turmeric) - 1/2 tsp
Bhoona Jeera Powder(Roasted Cumin) - 3 tsp
Chaat Masala - 4 tsp OR according to taste
Lemon Juice - 2 tbsp
Onion - 1 medium, chopped finely
Tomato - 1 medium, chopped finely
Green Chilli - 1 medium,chopped finely
Ginger - 1/2 inch cube, chopped finely
Fresh Coriander Leaves - a small bunch, chopped
Water - 1 cup
Salt to Taste


COOKING TIME: 20 minutes

SERVING: Serves 6

METHOD:

1. Soak the dried peas overnight.
2. Place the soaked peas in a Pressure Cooker, add clove, turmeric and black pepper. Pressure cook the peas till they are soft.
3. Once done, remove lid and add Bhoona Jeera Powder and Chaat Masala to taste.
4. Add the lemon juice.
5. Add salt, if needed.

To Serve -
6. Add chopped Onion, Tomato, Green Chilli, Ginger and Fresh Coriander leaves as Garnish.
7. Serve with bread or puffed rice or Bhel !

TIP:
For the Jain version, avoid onion and ginger.
The Garnish items can be used all together or even singularly, as preferred.

Pineapple Tart

Hey Everyone !

I'm back !! My vacation almost turned into a sabbatical.. it was fun traveling and learning new things. I found some resting time as well... and now I am back to my experiments in the kitchen.

Beginning the New Year with something sweet.. :-)

PINEAPPLE TART

This recipe is a mix of my Mom's biscotto and my cheese cake recipes. It is a low fat version for all calorie counters. I was inspired to create something different for our Jain friends who dont eat any animal products / derivatives. Pineapple was just the thing.. nailed it !
Here goes...

INGREDIENTS:
Miniature Muffin Tray - 1

Tart Base:
All Purpose Flour - 1 cup
Sugar (powdered) - 4 tbsp
OR
Sugar Substitute (Glenda/Equate etc.)- 4 tsp
Olive Oil - 2 to 3 tbsp
Vanilla Flavoring - 1 tsp
Salt - a pinch

Pineapple Filling:
Fresh Pineapple(chopped into cubes) - 1 cup
Cream Cheese Lite - 4 Oz.
Whipping Cream Lite - 4 Oz.
Sugar (powdered) - 2 tbsp
OR
Sugar Substitute (Glenda/Equate etc.)- 2 tsp
Pineapple Flavoring - 1 tsp


COOKING TIME: 40 minutes

SERVING: Serves 10 to 12

METHOD:

1. Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees.
2. For the Tart Base: Mix in the All Purpose Flour, Sugar OR Sugar Substitute and Olive Oil.
3. Add Vanilla Flavoring and Salt. Mix in well to make into dough.
4. Apply slight Olive oil or Spray the Miniature Muffin Tray with a thin coat of Oil.
5. Use the dough to make base for each cup of the Miniature Muffin Tray.
6. Bake for about 20 minutes, until slightly browned.
7. When done, remove the tray from oven and place on a wire rack to cool. When cool, remove the Tart Base from the tray. You can now put in a second batch for baking, if needed.
8. For the Filling: Mix cubed Pineapple, Cream Cheese, Whipping Cream, Sugar OR Sugar Substitute, Pineapple Flavoring and blend. (I use my hand mixer)
9. Refrigerate for 2 to 4 hours. (Sometimes I freeze it overnight, beware coz Pineapple turns bitter too.)
10. To serve, fill up the Tart Base with the filling.
11. Top the Pineapple Tarts with fresh cut fruits - Peach, Strawberry, Raspberry, Blackberry, Grapes or even Pineapple.. whichever you like.

Enjoy !!

Don't forget to write me your feedback !

TIP:
In Step 5, to make even sized cups, I used a smaller cup to press in the dough. Makes the task so much easier and faster.

Rohini's Stuffed Tondli

Tondli or Tindora Zhunka or Kundru is a Gherkin. Like the cucumber this is also a fruit and has similar nutritional value. It is known by various names in different states of India and are prepared in a variety of spices. The Tondli seems like a far off cousin of the Parwal, which is a bigger version of the same. It is said that the Tondli can help reduce blood sugar (Your nutritionist would be the best person to talk about that). Although the taste of tondli is bland, it can be used in many interesting ways.

I love Tondlis, and I have had them only in Maharashtra, India. And therefore, to me this is a typical maharashtrian dish. Of course, this preparation is maharashtrian too.

I tried this recipe from a friend's blog. I have experimented with other traditional recipes for tondli and nothing came close to this one. Rohini's recipe for tondli is by far the best my husband and I have ever tasted !

So dont just read through this post, get started with the preps !!!

Here goes -

http://rohinigore.blogspot.com/2009/08/stuffed-tondli.html

INGREDIENTS:

Tondli - 4 cups

Peanut Powder (Roasted) - 1/2 cup

Dry Coconut Powder - 1/2 cup

Sesame powder - 1/4 cup

Red Chilli Powder  - 1 tsp

Jeera (Cumin) Powder - 1tsp

Dhania (Coriander) Powder - 1 tsp

Garam Masala - 1 tsp

Jaggery - 2 tbsp

Hing ( Asafoetida) - 1/2 tsp

Haldi (Turmeric Powder) - 1 tsp

Mustard Seeds - 1 and 1/2 tsp

Fresh Coriander Leaves - 1/2 bunch, chopped

Oil - 2 tbsp

Water - 1 cup

Salt to taste

COOKING TIME: 35 mins

SERVING: Serves 2

METHOD:
1. Wipe dry the washed and cleaned Tondli.

2. Cut off the top and bottom ends. Slit the tondli in the center, keep aside.

3. Prepare the Masala to go into the Tondli.

Masala:

4.Mix the Peanut Powder, Dry Coconut Powder, Sesame Seed Powder, Red Chilli Powder, Jeera Powder, DHania Powder, Garam Masala, Jaggery, Fresh Coriander and Salt to taste.

5. Stuff this Masala into the Tondlis, keep aside.

6. In a pot, heat Oil.

7. Add Mustard Seeds, let them splutter. 

8. Add Hing and Haldi. Cook for a couple seconds.

9. Add the stuffed Tondli and left over masala, if any.

10. Add the water, mix well.

11. Cook the tondli covered for about 7 to 10 mins.

12. Stir and remove from fire.

Serve hot with Roti or Pulav.

The only thing I do differently sometimes from the recipe mentioned above is cutting the tondlis into half, instead of making a slit and stuffing it with the spices.

Enjoy !!

Renu's Mint Coconut Rice

This is a flavorful recipe. Its a unique blend of spices and goes well with yogurt (Dahi) based curries, works for all occasions !!

For the recipe, please visit Renu's Kitchen at -
http://renus-kitchen.blogspot.com/

I have tried this recipe a few times, and it has turned out great each time. The use of mint and fresh coconut is unique and refreshing. Thank you Renu for the recipe.

Here are some pictures from my kitchen.

Enjoy !

Moong Pudina Wali Bharva Shimla Mirch (Bellpeppers stuffed with Green Gram and Mint)

This is the Second in the series of stuffed bell peppers. The stuffing for this one is made of a paste of Green Gram and Mint Leaves. The mix of these flavors is very unique and a dash of lime juice at the end gives it a real spike !



This is surely a dish to inspire. Be sure to hear about it from your guests !!
The dish goes well with Pulao, Biryani and all kinds of Rotis. Adding a simple curry to the mix of dishes makes it a complete dinner extravagance! Hope you like it !

INGREDIENTS:

Green Bell Peppers - 4 medium
Moong Daal (Green Gram) - 1 cup
Fresh Mint Leaves - small bunch
Green Chilli - 1 or 2 small
Lime Juice - a dash
Ginger or Ginger Powder - 1/2 inch cube grated (optional)
Jeera Powder (Cumin Powder) - 2 tsp
Dhania Powder (Coriander Powder) - 1/2 tsp
Garam Masala - 1 tsp
Pam Oil Spray
Water - 1 cup
Salt to taste

COOKING TIME: 40 minutes

SERVING: Serves 4 to 6

METHOD:

1. Boil the Moong Daal and keep aside. Let it cool.
2. After the daal is cooled to room temperature, make it into a paste in a blender. Please read the notes below on how to get the daal to the required consistency.
3. Cut the Bell Peppers into halves or just cut the top and scoop out the seeds and pulp from inside, as you prefer. Keep aside.
4. Make a paste of the Mint leaves, Ginger (optional) and Green Chilli in a mixer.
5. In a pot, add the Moong daal paste, cook it on flame, while adding little water to prevent it from getting burnt at the bottom.
6. Add Jeera Powder, Dhania Powder and Salt. Cook for a bit.
7. Add the Mint-Ginger-Green Chilli paste, cook till the paste blends into the daal mixture. Add Garam Masala.
8. Cook on medium to high flame to let most of the water evaporate to bring to a consistency of a thick paste. Cool the mixture. The stuffing is ready !
9. Spray and thinly coat the Green Bell Peppers with Pam Oil Spray.
10. Prepare a tray for the oven - Cover the tray with aluminium sheet, spray some Pam Oil Spray on.
11. Use the stuffing to fill the Bell Peppers. Put them on the prepped tray, ready to bake.
12. Pre-heat oven to 375 degrees. Bake the stuffed bell peppers for 30 to 35 mins.
13. When done, garnish the stuffed bell peppers with mint leaves or coriander leaves, as you prefer.
14. Add a dash of Lime Juice when you serve.

Serve with Curry, Rice or Roti.
Enjoy !!!

NOTES:

The Moong Daal needs to be boiled in indirect flame -  place the daal in a container and add water in the ratio of 2:1. So, for 1 cup of daal, use 2 cups of water. Place this container inside a cooker with a little water at the bottom of the cooker. Steam the Daal like you would normally do in the cooker. What comes out is daal thats cooked, but has very little water. The advantage of using indirect flame is that it prevents the dall from burning at the bottom and you get a thick consistency of daal that could be used to make the stuffing.

Masala Shimla Mirch (Bellpeppers stuffed with Spicy Mix)

I wanted to create some stuffing for bell-peppers that would be different from all the regular ones that I have tried... and after experimenting with quite a few... I finally settled on these. This will be a series of posts.. coz I dont think all the recipes will fit in one.. so watch out for more.
Hope you will like them all !



MASALA SHIMLA MIRCH

INGREDIENTS:

Green Bell Peppers - 4 medium
Tomato - 1 medium (for Garnish)
Grated fresh Coconut - 3 tbsp
Roasted Peanut Powder - 3 tbsp
Sesame Seeds - 2 tsp
Mustard Seeds - 1tsp
Hing (Asafoetida) - 1/2 tsp
Haldi Powder (Turmeric) - 1 tsp
Jeera Powder (Cumin) - 1 tsp
Dhania Powder (Coriander) - 1 tsp
Red Chilli Powder - 1/2 tsp
Garam Masala - 1/4 tsp
Jaggery - 1 inch cube
Chopped fresh Dhania (Cilantro) - 1/2 a bunch
Oil - 1 tbsp
Salt to taste


COOKING TIME: 30 - 35 minutes

PREPARATION TIME: 5 - 7 minutes

SERVING: Serves 4

METHOD:

1. Mix the Grated fresh Coconut, Roasted Peanut Powder, Sesame Seeds, Jeera Powder, Dhania Powder, Red Chilli Powder, Garam Masala, Jaggery, Cilantro and Salt in a mixer to make paste.
2. Heat Oil in a small pan. Add Mustard Seeds, let them splutter.
3. After the spluttering stops, add Hing and Haldi. Remove from fire, Tadka made.
4. Add the tadka to the mixture. Mix well, the stuffing is ready.
5. Cut the Bell Peppers into halves or just cut the top and scoop out the seeds and pulp from inside, as you prefer. Keep aside.
6. Spray and thinly coat the Green Bell Peppers with Pam Oil Spray.
7. Prepare a tray for the oven - Cover the tray with aluminium sheet, spray some Pam Oil Spray on.
8. Use the stuffing to fill the Bell Peppers. Put them on the prepped tray, ready to bake.
9. Pre-heat oven to 375 degrees. Bake the stuffed bell peppers for 30 to 35 mins.
10. When done, garnish the stuffed bell peppers with chopped or sliced tomatoes. This makes for an interesting blend of flavors.

Serve with Curry Vegetables, Rice or Roti.
Enjoy !!!

Celebrating Indian Independence with Eggplant and String Beans in Garlic Sauce

Its been a while that I made anything Chinese at home.. its time !
Celebrating Indian Independence with Chinese food ? Its truly a united world !!! :)

This platter is a full meal with Eggplant and String Beans in Garlic Sauce served with Soy Rice. Its a healthy preparation and does not use Ajinomoto or any artificial color. The Beans and Eggplant are lightly sauted for the recipe and its the sequence in which the ingredients are added that sprinkles stardust on this recipe !!

To celebrate Indian Independence Day, this recipe uses the colors of the Indian flag:
Orange - Eggplant preparation
White - Rice cooked with Soy Beans
Green - String Beans preparation

Hope you like it !

INGREDIENTS:

Thai Eggplant - 2 medium, cut into thin pieces
Spring Onion - a small bunch, chopped
String Beans - 200 gms or a bunch, cut into long pieces
Garlic - 10 to 12 cloves, chopped
Ginger - 1 inch cube, chopped
Almonds - 3 or 4, grated
Sweet & Sour Sauce - 1 tbsp
Soya Sauce - 2 tbsp
Water - 1 pot
Oil - 6 tbsp
Salt to taste

COOKING TIME: 30 to 40 minutes

SERVING: Serves 2

METHOD:

1. In a pot, add water and bring to boil.
2. Add the string beans and cook covered for 2 to 3 minutes.
3. Take the beans off flame, drain and cool under running water.
4. In a pan, add 1/2 tbsp oil, add ginger and saute for a minute. Keep aside.
5. In the same pan, add 1/2 tbsp oil, add garlic and saute for a minute. Keep aside.
6. In the same pan, add 1 tbsp oil, add spring onions and saute for a minute or two. Keep aside.
7. In the same pan, add 3 to 4 tbsp oil, add cut eggplant and fry for 5-6 minutes. Keep aside.
8. In the same pan, add 1/2 tbsp oil, add grated almonds and fry for a minute.
9. Add half of the sauted garlic, move it around in the pan.
10. Add the boiled and cooled string beans, saute for a few minutes.
11. Add soya sauce, mix well and remove from flame.
12. Adjust the salt to taste.
13. Heat another pan, add the sauted Ginger, Garlic and Spring Onion. Mix well.
14. Add the sauted Eggplant. Lap it up.
15. Mix the sweet & sour sauce in. If the sauce seems too thick, add some water.
16. Simmer the eggplants for a few minutes, remove from flame.

Serve with white or brown rice. In the pictures here we have white rice cooked with Soy beans for some added proteins.

Enjoy !!!

Baingan Masala (Eggplant in a spicy Curry)

A simple yet delectable recipe made with small eggplants.

INGREDIENTS:

Small Eggplants - 8 to 10 medium
Onion - 1 large, chopped
Tomato - 2 medium, chopped
Green Chilli - 1 medium,chopped finely
Garlic paste - 1 tsp
Fresh Corriander Leaves - a small bunch, chopped
Jeera Powder(Cumin) - 1 tsp
Dhania Powder (Corriander) - 5 tsp
Red Chilli Powder - 1 tsp
Garam Masala Powder - 1/4 tsp
Haldi (Turmeric) - 1/2 tsp
Oil - 1 tbsp
Water - 1 cup
Salt to Taste


COOKING TIME: 45 minutes

SERVING: Serves 6

METHOD:

1. Slit the Eggplants along the length, making an X at the top. (You can keep the ends of the eggplant, I prefer to cut them off)
2. Mix the Corriander Powder, chopped Green Chilli and Salt.
3. Fill this mixture in the eggplants, keep aside.
4. In a pot add oil, let it heat.
5. Add Onions, fry till done.
6. Add Garlic Paste and cook for 2 to 3 minutes.
7. Add Turmeric, Red Chilli Powder and Cumin Powder, mix well.
8. Add the chopped tomatoes, cook till oil separates.
9. Let the mixture cool. Blend this mixture in a blender to make paste.
10. Pour the paste into a pot and heat. Add water to make gravy.
11. Add the stuffed Eggplants into the gravy.
12. Cook till the eggplants are done.
13. Add the Garam Masala Powder in the last.
14. Add salt to taste, Remove from flame.



To Serve -
15. Place the eggplants in the serving tray and pour the gravy over it.
16. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves or sliced tomatoes.

Enjoy !

Veggie Kofta Curry - Mughlai Cuisine

Koftas are a part of Mughlai Cuisine which finds its origins in the imperial kitchens of the Mughal Empire. Mughlai food has been strongly influenced by Persian and Turkic cuisines. The tastes of Mughlai cuisine vary from extremely mild to spicy, and is often associated with a distinctive aroma and the taste of ground and whole spices. The rich preparation of Mughlai food consists of flavored sauces and butter based curries... and it is the slow cooking on low flame that makes every dish mouthwatering. A Mughlai course is an elaborate buffet of main course dishes with a variety of accompaniments.

This recipe comes with a slight twist. This can be prepared the rich Mughlai way, or could also be toned down for the health watchers. I have both the recipes here... use the one that suits you best. :)

THE MUGHLAI KOFTA CURRY

INGREDIENTS:

Onion - 1 large, chopped
Tomato - 2 medium, chopped into cubes
Ghiya or Lauki (Bottlegourd) - 1 medium, peeled and grated
Zucchini - 2 medium, grated
Cabbage - 1/4 to 1/2 medium size, grated
Green Chilli - 1 medium
Ginger-Garlic paste - 1 tsp
Fresh Corriander Leaves - a small bunch, chopped
Cashewnut Paste - 2 tbsp
Besan () - 2 tbsp
Shah Jeera (Caraway Seeds)- 1 tsp
Jeera Powder(Cumin) - 1 tsp
Dhania Powder (Corriander) - 1 tsp
Red Chilli Powder - 1 tsp
Garam Masala Powder - 1/4 tsp
Haldi (Turmeric) - 1/2 tsp
Oil for shallow-frying
Ghee - 1 tbsp
Cream - 2 tbsp (optional)
Water - 1 cup
Salt to Taste


COOKING TIME: 75 minutes

SERVING: Serves 6 to 8

METHOD:

For the Koftas -
1. Mix the grated Bottlegourd and Zucchini together.
2. Squeeze the water out of the grated veggies and keep aside. Mix the cabbage with the veggies.
3. Add half the Green Chillis, Jeera Powder, Dhania Powder and Besan. Mix well.
4. In a shallow pan, heat oil for shallow frying.
5. Once the oil is hot, add salt to the mix of veggies & masala and make into small balls.
6. Shallow fry the Kofta balls on low flame (see picture below). The balls are real soft so they need to be turned carefully in oil.
7. Once the Koftas are fried, dab them with a tissue to remove excess oil.
Keep them aside.





For the Curry -
8. In a pot add ghee, let it heat.
9. Add Shah Jeera, let them splutter.
10. Add Onions and fry them till done.
11. Add the Ginger-Garlic paste, Green Chillis and fry for 2 to 3 minutes.
12. Add Red Chilli Powder, Turmeric and stir.
13. Add the Tomatoes, let it cook over low flame till ghee separates.
14. Add the Cashewnut paste and mix well.
15. Add salt to taste.
16. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes on low flame, stirring once in a while.
17. Add Garam Masala Powder and mix well. Turn off heat.
18. After the mixture cools, blend it well in a mixie.
19. Pour the mixture in the pot and heat it, add water to bring to the consistency of gravy.

To Serve -
20. Arrange the Koftas in a Serving Tray and spread the gravy over Koftas.
21. Let the Koftas soak in the curry.
22. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves or cream(optional).



THE CALORIE WATCHER'S KOFTA CURRY

INGREDIENTS:

Onion - 1 large, chopped
Tomato - 2 medium, chopped into cubes
Ghiya or Lauki (Bottlegourd) - 1 medium, peeled and grated
Zucchini - 2 medium, grated
Cabbage - 1/4 to 1/2 medium size, grated
Green Chilli - 1 medium
Ginger-Garlic paste - 1 tsp
Fresh Corriander Leaves - a small bunch, chopped
Besan () - 2 tbsp
Shah Jeera (Caraway Seeds)- 1 tsp
Jeera Powder(Cumin) - 1 tsp
Dhania Powder (Corriander) - 1 tsp
Red Chilli Powder - 1 tsp
Garam Masala Powder - 1/4 tsp
Haldi (Turmeric) - 1/2 tsp
Pam Spray
Ghee or Oil - 1 tbsp
Water - 1 cup
Salt to Taste


COOKING TIME: 75 minutes

SERVING: Serves 6 to 8

METHOD:

For the Koftas -
1. Mix the grated Bottlegourd and Zucchini together.
2. Squeeze the water out of the grated veggies and keep aside. Mix the cabbage with the veggies.
3. Add half the Green Chillis, Jeera Powder, Dhania Powder, Besan and Salt. Mix well.
4. Make small balls out of the mixture.
5. In a shallow pan, spray PAM and light fry the Koftas on low flame, turning them frequently. The balls are real soft so they need to be turned carefully in pan.
6. Once the Koftas are fried, dab them with a tissue to remove excess oil.
Keep them aside.

For the Curry -
8. In a pot add Ghee or Oil, let it heat.
9. Add Shah Jeera, let them splutter.
10. Add Onions and fry them till done.
11. Add the Ginger-Garlic paste, Green Chillis and fry for 2 to 3 minutes.
12. Add Red Chilli Powder, Turmeric and stir.
13. Add the Tomatoes, let it cook over low flame till ghee separates.
14. Add salt to taste.
15. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes on low flame, stirring once in a while.
16. Add Garam Masala Powder and mix well. Turn off heat.
17. After the mixture cools, blend it well in a mixie.
18. Pour the mixture in the pot and heat it, add water to bring to the consistency of gravy.

To Serve -
19. Arrange the Koftas in a Serving Tray and spread the gravy over Koftas.
20. Let the Koftas soak in the curry.
21. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

This recipe with its rich gravy and crisp Koftas is a delicious extravagance that will leave your family and friends asking for more !!!!
Enjoy with Naan or Parathas !