tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10345557762791942142024-03-14T00:43:20.059-07:00 The Noisy Kitchen Renihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04624890762564423455noreply@blogger.comBlogger155125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1034555776279194214.post-91636446793130151622019-07-12T07:49:00.000-07:002019-07-12T10:09:41.742-07:00Bhindi Kurkure - Okra Fritters/Chips<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
It is not every day that you feel like a guest blogger in your own blog, but that's exactly how I feel now. I even half expected Blogger to have changed it's looks and setting and braced myself to again learn my way around :) I've totally neglected my blog for the past one year. I have been trying to make a post for quite some time and it's like I've lost touch and can't get myself to write anything. I have so many posts lying in my drafts with pictures and the recipe. But for me a blog post is never complete without at least a small and interesting opening note. Though I call this a food blog and love sharing my recipes, the writing is what actually makes me love my blog. I really wonder if anybody actually bothers to read my blog with the internet filled with committed and regular food bloggers. Thanks to those kind souls who still stop by and drop me a like or a comment, you keep me going. And moreover it's still my little space where I can ramble as much a I please :) .If you have been reading my Blog you would have by this time got used to my long list of excuses of the cold or hot weather ,sickness or holidays and most often laziness. This time I have managed to come up with few new excuses to add to my list,one we've again shifted to a different house and secondly I'm back in the rat race after almost a decade. 'To work or not to work" had been a question that nagged me ever since I gave up my job to take care of my Kids. With both the kids in school for most part of the day I felt that it was time I got back to work. It did take some adjusting in the beginning like when you realise that you can actually use the restroom without having to hold a conversation with someone who's waiting for you right outside the door. Or like when you sit at your PC and half expect someone to scream "Can you come and play with me, you are free now". The best part is when you realise that you don't have to multi task. You don't have to cook, carry a toddler in your arm and try to answer philosophical questions from a 6 year old like "Why are we human beings on earth" while trying to ignore the phone that rings persistently in the back ground. But you also miss the surprise hugs and appreciation that kids give us. Nobody at work would give you the "Wonder Woman" look that your child gives you for a simple task like fetching a bottle of Ketchup from the topmost shelf. Well there are always two sides to a coin.<br />
I have quite a few recipes lying in my post, but I realised to go with this one as I noticed that I've been posting a lot of sweet stuff. I'm not a great fan of frying food, frying happens very rarely at home. And luckily Okra falls under the list of "green" vegetables that my kids eat. It's actually the only vegetable that both my kids love eating. So I don't have to disguise it by frying. I usually make different types of stir fries with it, but tried this as a snack. And it turned to super yummy !The list of powders might look a bit daunting, but you might find most of them in your kitchen. You can mix and match with any powders of your choice for a different flavour :)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3YBkHDp1DSziDhZCcpGtOVDMj8n5A_Hv62LYZHvc6TjW55JAGYmSYIxhMNMecUgI3uK-8ZPc_nWOubSppw_0N5CfQvUCpv4LcNmd3wYX3aO-FSh7Gs19qsiwrZlX36cvH2osTxrQh2Q/s1600/Okra+Chips+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1504" data-original-width="1600" height="600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3YBkHDp1DSziDhZCcpGtOVDMj8n5A_Hv62LYZHvc6TjW55JAGYmSYIxhMNMecUgI3uK-8ZPc_nWOubSppw_0N5CfQvUCpv4LcNmd3wYX3aO-FSh7Gs19qsiwrZlX36cvH2osTxrQh2Q/s640/Okra+Chips+1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>You'll Need:</b></div>
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Okra/Vendakka/Bhindi - 250 g</div>
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Besan/Gram Flour - 3 tbsp or more</div>
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Red Chilli Powder - 1/2 tsp</div>
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Coriander Powder - 1/2 tsp</div>
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Turmeric Powder - 1/2 tsp</div>
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Fennel Powder - 1/2 tsp</div>
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Chaat Masala Powder - 1/2 tsp</div>
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Cumin Powder - 1/2 tsp</div>
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Garam Masala Powder - 1/2 tsp</div>
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Peanut Powder - 1 tsp(dry roast and grind peanuts)</div>
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Salt - a little more than a tsp or as Needed</div>
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Oil- For frying</div>
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<b>Get Cooking:</b></div>
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<b>-</b>Wash the okra and pat them completely dry on paper or kitchen towels. </div>
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-Remove the crown and the tail of the Okra and cut each okra lengthwise into four pieces.</div>
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-Add all the powders and mix well.</div>
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-Let the mixture sit for 10 - 30 minutes.</div>
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-Heat oil in a pan in medium heat and fry the Okra in batches until they are crisply fried.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN9qR5VlhK-Oqub1ZE3s85D0_u8fJpZdX2twd3SEgrVxRFo9MG6LlC4uV5LH0XPpN4x75GW-0LC9u1_qIzQyHwPsfIpuEzkPZ1BE-uGO99ym-yTi6zuxIf3WffNfpVffKK3JVOMJzONA/s1600/Okra+Chips+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN9qR5VlhK-Oqub1ZE3s85D0_u8fJpZdX2twd3SEgrVxRFo9MG6LlC4uV5LH0XPpN4x75GW-0LC9u1_qIzQyHwPsfIpuEzkPZ1BE-uGO99ym-yTi6zuxIf3WffNfpVffKK3JVOMJzONA/s640/Okra+Chips+2.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
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<b>Tips: </b></div>
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-You can use any powder of your choice, you can replace the Peanut powder with Idli Podi, Paruppu podi or any other curry powder that you find in your kitchen.</div>
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-When frying let the oil heat up for 2 -3 minutes between the batches.</div>
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Happy Cooking !</div>
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Renihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04624890762564423455noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1034555776279194214.post-42241859922782785712018-03-24T13:08:00.001-07:002018-03-24T13:08:19.292-07:00Banana Nut Brownies<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Is there anything not to love about brownies, except for their slightly racist name. Soft, moist and yummy,they are simply impossible to resist. Eat them a day after baking or right out of the pan, warm with a scoop of ice cream on the side, they are really delicious. I recently had a spiced version of brownie, pan cooked and straight out of the grill with a scoop of 'Gluehwein' ice cream, it tasted simply divine. And to top all that they are so easy to bake, you don't even have to beat the batter. Once you start baking them at home you'd never ever buy them from the shops.The regular brownies I bake at home are a very dense,moist and Chocolatey version, but these one are soft and simply melt in your mouth. I found the recipe in one of the old BBC good food magazines.I'm probably one of the most outdated foodies you'll come across, I discovered BBC good food only before a year. Just leafing through them is such a delight.The pictures and the props are so beautiful that they put me to shame as a food blogger. I was surprised when I realised that they even have an Indian version of the magazine.</div>
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I'm more of a 'Book' person than a 'Magazine' person.My favourite magazine has almost always been the 'Reader's digest'. I started reading them when I was 10 and all that I could read and understand back then were the sections, 'All in a day's work' and 'Laughter the best medicine'. Through the years the Editors have managed to keep the quality of the magazine intact. With the market today full with all kinds of magazines, with their glossy covers and countless ads, 'Reader's digest' is still one of the magazines where the content is given more importance. It would probably be the first magazine I would ask my kids to read when they are 10, just like my Dad. I still remember sitting with him and a dictionary :) and reading my first Reader's digest ! I read the German version of it now, as we don't find the English version.And funnily after 25 years, I still read it with a Dictionary at my side :)</div>
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Coming to me being a 'Book' person I just finished reading two books,one of them being my usual thriller and the other one, though being sort of a thriller, really got me thinking. I would write about it soon in a new post. So off to the recipe !</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin_DeNWsQ6ib5Y4rVsngWQmX-M8nIY-uYmRtUGZ4vn4ZenGg2mf3hFKagoy79wIro7u18k-FMlY6f7TlDC3b07dVz8PMgUOx8Kyc3npLiy9iUJnOZP3qDj2E7JrM4HRm0gOUMJsVvhOA/s1600/Banana+Brownies+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1394" data-original-width="1600" height="556" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin_DeNWsQ6ib5Y4rVsngWQmX-M8nIY-uYmRtUGZ4vn4ZenGg2mf3hFKagoy79wIro7u18k-FMlY6f7TlDC3b07dVz8PMgUOx8Kyc3npLiy9iUJnOZP3qDj2E7JrM4HRm0gOUMJsVvhOA/s640/Banana+Brownies+4.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>You'll Need:</b></div>
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Butter - 150g</div>
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Muscovado sugar/Brown Sugar - 300 g 1 and 1/2 cups</div>
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Dark Chocolate(broken) - 175g</div>
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Walnut - 100g</div>
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Eggs -3 large ones(beaten)</div>
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Bananas - 2 big ripe (mashed)</div>
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All Purpose Flour - 100g</div>
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Cocoa Powder - 2 tbsp</div>
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Baking Powder - 1 tsp</div>
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<b>Method:</b></div>
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-Preheat the oven to 180°C/ 150°C(with fan)</div>
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-To a baking paper lined tray add the Walnuts and leave them in the oven for 7- 8 minute. Then take them out and break the walnut with your finger into small pieces.</div>
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-Butter the baking pan(18 X 23 cm) , sprinkle flour on the sides and line the base with baking paper.</div>
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-In a small bowl mix the flour, baking powder and cocoa</div>
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-To a pan add the butter,sugar and chocolate and on low flame let them melt. Gently stir them from time to time to help it melt. Remove the pan from the heat.</div>
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-Add the walnuts, beaten eggs and mashed bananas , and with a spatula mix well.</div>
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-Add the flour, baking powder and cocoa mixture and again mix well with the spatula.</div>
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-Pour the mixture into the prepared tray and bake from 35 - 45 minutes, or until when a toothpick inserted in the centre comes out clean without anything sticking to it.</div>
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-Let it cool and cut into squares. Store in an airtight container for a week !</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIESqYbZz5oHKY_2SATQyBjUaKuT6Qf_6YWpErsQSeajl9_gaA2ght6gXui1ACgLVdUymDUX4_x0lQ9Wq4kZAkjEreqXP_eiDjYmkZxElAW9DJjeOHrPRFuKOTGN3-RUJkYPSNmrlpTQ/s1600/Banana+Brownies+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1297" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIESqYbZz5oHKY_2SATQyBjUaKuT6Qf_6YWpErsQSeajl9_gaA2ght6gXui1ACgLVdUymDUX4_x0lQ9Wq4kZAkjEreqXP_eiDjYmkZxElAW9DJjeOHrPRFuKOTGN3-RUJkYPSNmrlpTQ/s640/Banana+Brownies+1.JPG" width="518" /></a></div>
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<b>Note:</b></div>
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-The actual recipe calls for 175 g of butter, but it tastes good with 125 - 150 g of butter.</div>
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-You can replace the Walnuts with any nuts or mixture of nuts of your choice.</div>
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-I used two large Dole Bananas</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcgi6fn3asoEGmn8WVp9PbH0z7uxVuMkuFFo0SOW8zD2k4vJRhj1TlPCHm_ta5a2SnsDYzoAF0uKwYhYoD_AJQZ0kABgzMS4ebUYuKz8dbFFdbPeg0Xqd22VGR4w6mu-ffYllv6cVntg/s1600/Banana+Brownies+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1390" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcgi6fn3asoEGmn8WVp9PbH0z7uxVuMkuFFo0SOW8zD2k4vJRhj1TlPCHm_ta5a2SnsDYzoAF0uKwYhYoD_AJQZ0kABgzMS4ebUYuKz8dbFFdbPeg0Xqd22VGR4w6mu-ffYllv6cVntg/s640/Banana+Brownies+2.JPG" width="554" /></a></div>
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Thanks for stopping by ! Have a sweet day !</div>
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Renihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04624890762564423455noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1034555776279194214.post-23251982198103474532018-02-19T02:25:00.000-08:002018-02-19T02:25:24.258-08:00Badusha - Badusahi<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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It's been a while since I posted. The last time I posted, the trees where still green and the sky was blue, now the trees are barren and the sky is mostly grey. They do look lovely when they are covered with snow. I still remember the first time when I woke up to a white morning with everything covered with snow. Everything from the street lamps to the slated roofs where covered with a beautiful white layer. It felt like God had perfectly Iced everything with the whitest Buttercream Icing. That's how it looks, perfect, serene and pure when you look at it from inside your warm home. I remember telling a friend in India that it had snowed and her first question was 'How does it taste?! '. I would've given anything to just touch snow when I was back in India and now I would give anything to bask for a few minutes in the warm rays of the sun. Grass is always greener on the other side isn't it? Guess snow is beautiful as long as you don't have to shovel it out of the pavement, or scrape the persistent layer of frost on your car's windshield with your cold numb hands or push a pram through it with a child trying to get out of the pram to play in the snow. Well Grass is greener on the other side because it's not real :) Pessimism aside nothing beats the serene white glow of snow !<br />
I always have a countdown running in my head each winter, where I count the 90 days it takes for spring to start. It's beautiful to watch the green landscape take over the grey one. 'Silver White winters that melt into spring' is definitely one of my favourite things too:) <br />
I thought I'll start this year of posting on a sweet note. This is one real easy sweet to make. I always assumed that it would be hard to make and wasn't a big fan of it as I sort of felt that the store bought ones were a tad too sweet and sticky. Though surprisingly it tastes a lot better when u make it at home and keep an eye on the amount of time you let it soak in the sugar syrup. So off to the recipe !<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAH2YRelVgdK95eHnvKt6_OOnJ9BG0MI69TdjpmXcjPUvmAxoistnFhG8MNo4xKVuyDw18aFjhQEHZMxvYiQXZIgq3D0QwAE-ZCTzKNZGBuBhRQsiMft4M6bGuAJADgRNzK3TXLxJ7Qw/s1600/Badusha.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1143" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAH2YRelVgdK95eHnvKt6_OOnJ9BG0MI69TdjpmXcjPUvmAxoistnFhG8MNo4xKVuyDw18aFjhQEHZMxvYiQXZIgq3D0QwAE-ZCTzKNZGBuBhRQsiMft4M6bGuAJADgRNzK3TXLxJ7Qw/s640/Badusha.JPG" width="456" /></a></div>
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<strong>You'll</strong> <strong>Need:</strong></div>
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<strong>Makes 10 - 12</strong></div>
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All Purpose flour/Maida - 125 g / 1 cup</div>
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Curd - 50 g / 3 - 4 tbsp </div>
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Baking Powder - a pinch</div>
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Baking Soda - 2 pinches</div>
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Butter(melted) - 3 - 4 tbsp/ 50 g</div>
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Sugar - 125 g - 1/2 - 3/4 cup</div>
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Water as needed</div>
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Oil to deep fry</div>
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Rose essence - a few drops</div>
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<strong>Method:</strong></div>
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<strong>Sugar Syrup: </strong>In a bowl mix the sugar with about 1/2 -cup water(the water should fully cover the sugar) and let it boil on medium heat for 4 - 7 minutes. Take it off the stove and add the essence and mix well.</div>
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<strong>For</strong> <strong>Badusha</strong>:</div>
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<strong>-</strong>In a bowl sieve the Flour , baking powder and baking soda.</div>
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-Add the melted butter and with your finger tips mix and crumble it.</div>
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-Add the curd and mix well , the dough will be slightly sticky. Let it sit aside for 10 - 20 minutes.</div>
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Make sure you don't knead the dough a lot, just knead until it holds together. It will not be smooth.</div>
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-After 20 minutes , make about 10 - 12 balls out of the dough. Slightly flatten each ball. They will not be smooth.</div>
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-Heat oil in a shallow pan. The oil shouldn't be very hot. When you drop a small amount of dough in the oil it shouldn't immediate float to the top.</div>
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-Fry each ball until they are golden brown, flipping them over in between.</div>
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-Remove from the oil with slotted ladles and drop them in the sugar syrup.</div>
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-Let them sit for 30 seconds on one side and 30 seconds on the other side. Remove them. The amount of soaking time depends on how sweet you like it. Done !</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMU9r7Ty2JQSIR01JLSaK8CNICLNB3rijcWgeP7UpBKipRF4byo45t71E5mviA2eqajERlOGJe18aFLVELJJc52hoxaxQ0RKlaKJxrvL24oMBQv8961uIuXWjkMsgZ_6R1jT_O3Cnebw/s1600/Badusha+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1251" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMU9r7Ty2JQSIR01JLSaK8CNICLNB3rijcWgeP7UpBKipRF4byo45t71E5mviA2eqajERlOGJe18aFLVELJJc52hoxaxQ0RKlaKJxrvL24oMBQv8961uIuXWjkMsgZ_6R1jT_O3Cnebw/s640/Badusha+2.JPG" width="500" /></a></div>
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Thanks for stopping by ! Have a beautiful day !</div>
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Renihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04624890762564423455noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1034555776279194214.post-33061423445568645162017-09-01T02:45:00.002-07:002017-09-01T02:58:50.976-07:00Beetroot Halwa<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
The summer this year was glorious,we are back into action after almost 2 months of summer holidays.Living in a hilly area, we get to experience both the extremes,real hot summers and very cold winters.The plants in my balcony love the hot summers and they are a sight to see with their beautiful colours.Here are some of them ...<br />
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But the sunflowers really stole the show.I could sit back and watch them preening in their beauty the whole day.There was this poem that I learnt as a kid in school,I remember the opening lines of it..<br />
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'Love came to Flora asking for a flower </div>
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That would of flowers be undisputed queen'</div>
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The poem is about how the Lily and the Rose think that they are the Queen of flowers,but Flora decides that the Lotus is the Queen of flowers.Though I would rather called Sunflower the queen of Flowers :)</div>
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I'm not much of a flower person,but to have a little garden patch with my own vegetables and flowers is definitely on my bucket list !!<br />
So here's a recipe for an equally colourful and beautiful dish.It's very much similar to it's counterpart Carrot Halwa !<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirlsPnmNX6n5qVnXjXgDncmmaxOKuZfl4L9EwuOnmq7bzsugrlhjNWKzOR7VWkVAFApUD2CPpa_LekXOdQpZZpXzDqBo4Dl6qhi9nAZXLf7YmzjY_Mh5w8BCc6suqbSuaxO22dt8BQMw/s1600/Beetroot+Halwa+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirlsPnmNX6n5qVnXjXgDncmmaxOKuZfl4L9EwuOnmq7bzsugrlhjNWKzOR7VWkVAFApUD2CPpa_LekXOdQpZZpXzDqBo4Dl6qhi9nAZXLf7YmzjY_Mh5w8BCc6suqbSuaxO22dt8BQMw/s640/Beetroot+Halwa+1.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
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<b>You'll Need:</b></div>
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Beetroots (cleaned,scraped and grated) - 4 cups</div>
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Boiled Whole Milk - 3 cups</div>
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Raisins - 3 tbsp</div>
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Cashew nuts - 1 tbsp</div>
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Almond slivered - 2 tbsp</div>
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Chenna/Paneer/ricotta/Fresh Cheese(crumbled or pulsed in mixer) - 1 cup</div>
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Ghee - 4-5 tbsp</div>
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Sugar - 1 cup</div>
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Cardamom powder - 1/2 tsp</div>
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<b> Method:</b></div>
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-In a a wide mouthed non-stick or thick bottomed pan add the ghee,when it heats up add the raisins, cashew nuts and Almonds.Saute until the nuts are slightly browned and the raisins puff up.</div>
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-Add the grated Beetroot and saute for 5 - 6 minutes until it's all coated with ghee.</div>
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-Add the Milk and mix well.Reduce the flame to medium and let it cook until all the milk evaporates.Keep stirring in between else it tends to stick to the bottom of the vessel.</div>
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-Now add the sugar & mix it well.Let it cook until the mixture gets dry.Keep stirring it often.</div>
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-Once the mixture appears dry keep stirring it until it turns bright and shiny. This can take around 10 -12 minutes.The mixture will start leaving the sides of the vessel and will clump into a ball.</div>
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-Now add the Chenna/Paneer/Cheese and sprinkle the cardamom powder.Stir until the Cheese is well mixed around 5 minutes.Done !</div>
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Thanks for stopping by ! Have a colourful day !</div>
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Renihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04624890762564423455noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1034555776279194214.post-66209152473555740562017-07-17T08:45:00.002-07:002017-07-17T08:45:29.481-07:00Baked French Fries - Baked Pommes<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I grew up in the heart of Chennai,where every corner had a crowded place where the vendors sold their hot samosas,different type of vadas and bhajjis in their push carts.The smell of those hot samosas were as much as a part of my childhood ,as the salty smell of Marina's sea Breeze .In my later years in Bangalore ,my favourite street food was almost always boiled or grilled corn on the cob.<br />
Here in Germany,street food or fast food(Imbiss) is mostly Pommes Frites(French Fries) and various types of Wurst(Sausage) dishes.There are quite a few Turkish Döner & Pizza Shops and Chinese places,but typical German food can be found only during Carnivals,Markets and fests,when the streets are lined with Stalls offering other dishes like Reibekuchen(potato pancakes),Fish shops,Schnitzels,Grilled stuff and other local specialities. Bakeries however are quite popular and found at every corner.They are mostly crowded and offer a wide range of stuff from their Brötchens & Breads to cakes & cookies.But if you find a long queue at some place you can be pretty sure that it's for Pommes. It sure makes a pretty fuss free and filling snack or meal.My kids love it with Ketchup and can have it every day without ever getting bored.I make this baked version of Pommes as it's definitely a lot healthier and tastes as yum as the fried ones.I pretty much bake everything,we very rarely fry things.I'll have to blame my Dad for that,though we were surrounded by street food vendors,he hardly let us eat any of those fried goods.And on those rare occasions when he did get us anything from the vendors,he would never let us eat them before he had pressed them between paper towels to get the extra oil out of them :)So if you are not a big fan of fried stuff,this is a real yummy snack.You just need to find potatoes big enough to cut them into thin fingers and then chop them neatly like Chefs in cook shows.Though the only thing I successfully cut when I try to quickly chop like the Chefs are my poor fingers :)<br />
You can add any flavouring of your choice to spice up the dish.So here's another quickie !<br />
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<b>You'll Need:</b></div>
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Potatoes - 2 Bit ones(Washed & Peeled)</div>
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Olive oil - 1 tbsp</div>
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Salt ,Pepper and spices as needed.</div>
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<b>Method:</b></div>
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-Chop the potatoes into Thin fingers.</div>
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-Boil a large vessel with water,add salt and a few drops of oil to the boiling water.</div>
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-Add the chopped Potatoes to the water and let it cook for 2 mins ,remove them immediately and drain the water.</div>
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-Add salt,olive oil and pepper to the potatoes and mix well.</div>
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-Heat the oven to 220° C/ and line a baking tray with a baking paper.Spread the potatoes on them,make sure that they are spread evenly and don't lie on top of each other.</div>
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-Bake for 20 - 30 mins,until they are crisp.</div>
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-Serve with Ketchup or Mayonnaise.</div>
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-You can add different spices like, Chilli powder,Garlic,Curry masala powder to the potatoes before or after baking them for a more flavourful dish!</div>
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Thanks a lot for Stopping by ! Have a nice day !</div>
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Renihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04624890762564423455noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1034555776279194214.post-91348306242328631972017-07-17T08:45:00.001-07:002017-07-17T08:45:13.523-07:00Tricolour Ice pops<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Right from the day I spotted a multi colour Ice pop in the shops,I wanted to try out something similar at home.So one day when I made a Galia Melon-Strawberry-Orange smoothie,I made these pops too.I still don't understand why kids get all excited about a colourful Ice pop,but shun the smoothies made with the same ingredients :)This is such a simple dish that I was sceptical about posting it.I wasn't sure if it qualified for a blog post,but the picture looked so colourful and cute that I decided to go ahead and post it.So the next time you decide to make a colourful smoothie,make sure to save some for these pops:)<br />
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<b>Makes 4 Ice pops</b></div>
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<b>You'll Need:</b></div>
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Galia Melon - 1/2 cup (Pureed)</div>
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Strawberry Puree - 1/2 cup</div>
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Orange Juice- Squeezed from 1 orange</div>
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Sugar as needed</div>
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<b>Method:</b></div>
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-Add sugar to each of the fruit purees/juices as per taste and mix well.</div>
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-Fill each of the mould with the Galia melon puree until they fill 1/3rd of the mould.Let if freeze for 40 minutes,take it out and insert the ice cream stick or wooden skewer in each of the mould.Let if further freeze for an hour.</div>
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-Take it out and fill each mould with the strawberry puree so that it fills 2/3rd of each mould.Return to the freezer and let it freeze for an hour or two.</div>
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-Take it out again and fill the remaining 1/3rd of all the moulds with the orange juice .Return to the freezer and freeze for 2 to 3 hours.</div>
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-To serve run or place the mould in hot water and loosen the sides with a sharp knife and remove it from the mould.</div>
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Thanks for Stopping by !Have a wonderful day !</div>
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Renihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04624890762564423455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1034555776279194214.post-12564467995757961362017-07-05T07:34:00.001-07:002017-07-05T07:43:38.566-07:00Honey Melon Popsicle(Quickie)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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We had one week of heat wave here with the temperatures soaring to almost 38°C,one of the hottest summers I have endured here .The schools even decided to let the children go early, and as always ,Ironically, it started raining and the weather became cool.I still remember how we would wait for the schools to decide to declare a holiday on rainy days.We would paddle in our rubber shoes in the rain water ,with our polished white school shoes safely wrapped in our back pack on all the rainy days.And exactly on the day when the weather forecast people would predict bad rains and the schools decide to declare a holiday ,would the sun shine brightly.It's kind of like nature laughing at our Weather Prediction skills :)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5JOTxFfVBVyJON__DpXqGVt2_WZZ9tPVg_QhyFI5Fh8eRoLNwPJ0pQd1yU_gJA0ECh1s6Yk13UEgWbNw8dhCEo_yfyblKM9JXyfJ0lRBSRKCLFr2lqUI-YPWZoULb-OODK5M2AzR3Jg/s1600/Honey+Melon+Pops+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1272" data-original-width="1600" height="508" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5JOTxFfVBVyJON__DpXqGVt2_WZZ9tPVg_QhyFI5Fh8eRoLNwPJ0pQd1yU_gJA0ECh1s6Yk13UEgWbNw8dhCEo_yfyblKM9JXyfJ0lRBSRKCLFr2lqUI-YPWZoULb-OODK5M2AzR3Jg/s640/Honey+Melon+Pops+2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I find the summer here hotter than in Chennai,where the sea breeze makes it a little pleasant.<br />
Well we decided to cool off with these Pops.They make great smoothies actually,I love to drink them while my little ones love the pops.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip5qyupWP-7NUitqYzMOo3xQosRQ88-8qStvwb_UhyNc_ob0iBCglExXGlscNinrGCk690TTUE-EBrDz-GoSHw4Wtd7F9GlK4qDvA02YdDF-SIAkc_0_dDmev2RUpQvSRBEQJ8pqfgiQ/s1600/Honey+Melon+Pops+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1320" data-original-width="1600" height="528" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip5qyupWP-7NUitqYzMOo3xQosRQ88-8qStvwb_UhyNc_ob0iBCglExXGlscNinrGCk690TTUE-EBrDz-GoSHw4Wtd7F9GlK4qDvA02YdDF-SIAkc_0_dDmev2RUpQvSRBEQJ8pqfgiQ/s640/Honey+Melon+Pops+3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>You'll Need:</b></div>
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Honey Dew Melon - 1/2 a big one</div>
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Orange Juice or Lemon Juice - 50 - 75 ml</div>
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Quark/Greek Yogurt/Full Fat Yogurt - 1/2 cup</div>
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Sugar - 1 tbsp or more (if needed)<br />
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<b>Method:</b></div>
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-Add all the ingredients to a Blender and pulse for a few seconds.Add sugar and blend again if needed.</div>
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-Pour in the Popsicle mould and freeze for at least 4 hours.After the first one hour of freezing,stick the ice-cream stick in the middle of each mould.</div>
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Thanks for stopping by ! Have a cool day !</div>
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Renihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04624890762564423455noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1034555776279194214.post-91619638652492688622017-07-05T07:34:00.000-07:002017-07-05T07:34:26.731-07:00Mango Condensed Milk Ice pops - Quickie <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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This is yet another simple and super yummy Ice Pops,it tastes very similar to mango Kulfi.</div>
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Condensed milk is really a wonderful ingredient,you have it at hand and you can make so many delicious desserts in no time.I love this recipe mainly because it doesn't turn very hard like the other Pops and melts in your mouth in no time.I couldn't get a proper click, with one kid trying to eat it before I could click and the scorching heat melting it.My kids somehow believe that anything I click is more delicious than the similar thing that they hold in their hands.Taking a picture when they are around is like participating in Takeshi's castle(Hindi dubbed version),where I have to simultaneously make sure that one of my kids doesn't run away with the food and the next one doesn't knock everything down in her attempt to make it look better or wanting to pose ,the camera refusing to respond to different modes and the sun(you too Brutus!) hiding behind the clouds :)So off to the pops which calls for very few ingredients and can be whipped up quickly !</div>
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<b>Makes about 8 - 10</b></div>
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<b>You'll Need:</b></div>
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Mango pulp - 200 g (from 2 mangoes)</div>
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Condensed milk (Sweetened) - 1/2 a tin - 200 g</div>
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Heavy cream - 200 ml - about 3/4th a cup</div>
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Sugar - if needed</div>
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<b>Method:</b></div>
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-Add all the ingredients to a Blender and pulse for a few seconds.Add sugar and blend again if needed.</div>
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-Pour in the Popsicle mould and freeze for at least 4 hours.After the first one hour of freezing,stick the ice-cream stick in the middle of each mould.</div>
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-If you want to make an ice-cream out of the mixture.Pour it into a large bowl and let it freeze.Take it out after one hour of freezing and beat it well with a fork to break the ice crystals,and return to the freeze.Do this repeatedly 3 -4 times in intervals of 1 hour.</div>
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Thanks for Stopping by ! Have fun !</div>
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Renihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04624890762564423455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1034555776279194214.post-36123380868395594982017-06-23T01:55:00.001-07:002017-06-28T06:00:21.630-07:00Pav Bhaji <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Some relationships and things remain the same no matter where you are,irrespective of culture,language and traditional practices.On a lighter note,like how you scare kids by telling them that the Police are on their way or how every kid from every generation will always open a cream biscuit and lick the cream from inside,before eating it :).Coming to relationships ,some of them are mostly tricky,like the ones with your in-laws(did u know a funny anagram of the word Mother-in-law - you'll find it at the end of this post:)), or like the one that I'm going to ramble about,the relationship between a Tenant and the Landlord. Due to its proximity to my School we stayed in a Rented house for a real long time,so I have my fair share of experience with dealing with Landlords.I see extremes when it comes to Landlords.mostly there are the nosy types who can get on your nerves,with their overbearing nature,their surprise visits to make sure that you're taking good care of their house or their unsolicited advice on everything pertaining to the house.On the other hand there are people who treat you almost like family just because you stay in their house.I kind of understand the behaviour of the nosy Landlords,especially when they have to rent out their houses to families with kids.It's very similar to the in-law problem,they just can't easily part with their house/kid and strongly believe that only they know what's good for their house or kid .We stayed for almost 10 years in Germany in an apartment where the landlords stayed on the floor just beneath us.They were an elderly couple who lived alone and my landlady was one of the most wonderful person I've ever met. I've never seen her frown at anything, despite both my kids being owls who kept running around even after midnight.She remembered all our birthdays and always made it a point to leave a thoughtful present at our doorstep.There was always something at our doorstep on every occasion,be it Christmas,Easter,Saint Nicholas day or my daughter's first day at school.She was our Santa.She was the one who used to give me a pat on my back and asked me to Hang-on,during the days when I used to walk around like a zombie, tired and sleepless after taking care of my little ones .I still remember one particular incident.My Landlady was a very industrious person,she was 64 years old,close to retirement from a good job,her garden was well maintained and the whole building was always spic-and-span.She had a nice collection of paintings which she had hung all around her house and the stair case walls.One day when the kids & I were as usual late for school and we were hurrying, I somehow managed to knock a painting down and shatter it's glass frame and damage the painting.I was really scared to tell her that I had damaged the painting,I still remembered how my mother used to hesitate before knocking on our landlord's house when we children had broken something or how she used to dread her visits to our house.But I had to set an example to my children about doing the right thing,so I hesitantly knocked on the door to apologise.She opened it with her usual smile and I hardly let her speak and started with my Sorry and Excuses for damaging her painting.She listened to me as always ,her expression didn't change a bit, she just said:</div>
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'Reni ,nicht schlimm ,Das Schlimmste ist den Krieg'</div>
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(Not bad at all,the worst thing that can happen is war)</div>
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That was all that happened of that incident.The next week she had replaced the painting and never mentioned it ever again.I still remember her wise words.Guess she's one of those people ,thanks to whom we still believe in humanity and the goodness in people.We moved away from her house before sometime.She almost cried when we told her that we were leaving.We have so many fond and beautiful memories of the house which will stay with us forever.Have you ever noticed how our surroundings,like our home,the people we meet everyday and the memories almost become like a part of us and stays with us.Sometimes I just pray that I remain lucky and meet more beautiful souls !</div>
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Coming to the recipe,as you would've guessed,I was supposed to post this along with my previous two posts :) This is one of my favourite dishes,it can be whipped up very quickly and has some many veggies in it.We eat it with just some white Bread toasted in Ghee on days when I don't have Pav Buns around. In fact it even pairs up well with Dosa or Chapati.So off to the recipe !!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihjcSA_2PXw6IDz8WVYmw68aN7lf10SinZzgjimFRc_fCzMLAOkc046EEnFcq1Ziwr6iAkHm04BCYHIqQkX0O9rI5cwjhzdDp2LaBDQDCin4NU1I3RxUJMJF1Za7mwde10zz07VVMfTQ/s1600/pb1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihjcSA_2PXw6IDz8WVYmw68aN7lf10SinZzgjimFRc_fCzMLAOkc046EEnFcq1Ziwr6iAkHm04BCYHIqQkX0O9rI5cwjhzdDp2LaBDQDCin4NU1I3RxUJMJF1Za7mwde10zz07VVMfTQ/s640/pb1.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
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<b>Recipe adapted from <i>Sanjeev Kapoor</i></b></div>
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<b>Serves 4 - 6</b></div>
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<b>You'll Need:</b></div>
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Potato - 2 Large (Boiled,peeled,grated or mashed)</div>
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Tomato - 2 Big (finely chopped)</div>
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Onion - 2 (finely chopped)</div>
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Capsicum - 1 (finely chopped)</div>
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Green Peas - 3 - 4 tbsp ( boiled)</div>
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Cauliflower - 3 big florets (grated)</div>
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Green Chillies - 1 - 2 (finely chopped)</div>
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Ginger Garlic paste - 2 - 3 tsp</div>
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<a href="http://reniscooking.blogspot.com/2017/06/pav-bhaji-masala-powder.html">Pav Bhaji Masala Powder</a><span id="goog_2006230760"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a><span id="goog_2006230761"></span> - 1.5 Tbsp</div>
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salt to taste</div>
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Oil/Butter/Ghee - 1 -2 tbsp<br />
Butter - 1 Tbsp</div>
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Coriander leaves - 1 Tbsp (finely chopped)</div>
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Lemon -1<br />
<a href="http://reniscooking.blogspot.com/2017/06/eggless-pav-buns-eggless-dinner-rolls.html">Pav Buns / Dinner Rolls</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoE4Z6NrdECSTsFaJA7p-lG0FHBGFTeS56GHqGJ0PwgXiELfeshXaHfEq-IuEGIJnYLF-kxkux444HM0KTijq0mz_nReDhy6ntqAW9j-rnqZ7m04YbMgVF_TES3x2JhYzeivVRUHxWRg/s1600/pb3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1040" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoE4Z6NrdECSTsFaJA7p-lG0FHBGFTeS56GHqGJ0PwgXiELfeshXaHfEq-IuEGIJnYLF-kxkux444HM0KTijq0mz_nReDhy6ntqAW9j-rnqZ7m04YbMgVF_TES3x2JhYzeivVRUHxWRg/s640/pb3.JPG" width="415" /></a></div>
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<b>Method:</b><br />
-Heat the oil in the pan ,when it heats up add the Onion (save a little for garnishing in the end)and a pinch of salt and saute until it turns translucent. Then add the green chilli and ginger garlic paste and saute for 2-3 minutes.<br />
-Add 3/4 th of the chopped tomatoes and saute until it turns soft.Add a little water if needed and cover and cook on the low flame until the mixture starts oozing out oil.<br />
-Then add the vegetables and about a cup of water,check for salt and add the required amount.Simmer for around 10 minutes.Then mash all the vegetables with the back of the spoon until all of them are well mashed.<br />
-Add the Pav bhaji masala powder and mix well.Add the tomatoes and let the mixture cook on medium heat for 2 - 3 minutes.Take it off the stove.<br />
<b>To serve:</b><br />
-Toast the Pav buns(split into two) with butter.<br />
-To the bhaji add the Coriander leaves,the saved onion slices,the butter and squeeze a bit of the lemon.<br />
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.<img height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEienXlJdkVdRsIermETEgIfX7eVFl59ySRarzqhrvJuHubNv4rMmjXfG1qS3qETW6Fh7Rb3ajBxSzPr4s4lG4us68xWf43rhyvNxGZJoQb4xOt3pNuvXkHvZzCABTjxKqVGqsnSMxgJ_w/s640/pb2.JPG" width="640" /></div>
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And if you are still looking for that funny Anagram of the word <i>Mother-in-law</i> it is <i>Woman Hitler</i> :p</div>
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Thanks for Stopping by ! Have a lovely day !</div>
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Renihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04624890762564423455noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1034555776279194214.post-56450914844784389652017-06-04T08:53:00.000-07:002017-06-08T00:44:31.733-07:00Eggless Pav Buns - Eggless Dinner rolls<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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I would probably call baking the magical part of Cooking.I still remember how I wished to bake a cake even before I got into serious cooking.It fills you with a kind of child like pleasure to mix all the carefully measured ingredients and watch it turn into a beautiful cake,which you could further decorate and beautify. I've never tried to understand the chemistry behind it,though professional bakers would know how the moisture,temperature and alkalinity of the ingredients play a beautiful role in making a delectable baked good.Off late I'm into what I'll call the 'yeast craze' in other words I've started baking buns and breads.It's seriously wonderful to watch the dough puff up and then knock the air out of it and knead and shape to bake into lovely breads and buns,a child would call it magic.I feel that as we grow older we stop noticing the magic around us,it's everywhere in the flowers that suddenly pop up after months of cold winter, in the clouds that form lovely shapes as they move ,everywhere around us in nature.But as we get older ,responsibilities and tough times,kind of takes the magic out of life.Sometimes when I look into the mirror,I wonder what happened to the younger careless person who used to look back.Life hasn't taken the optimism out of me,but it's definitely made me more realistic.The other day I was walking around with my daughter on a nice warm day ,when we passed along this house with a huge garden and a tree house,swing and everything that a kid would wish for.My daughter looked at it and told me</div>
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'Mummy,how I wished we had it'.</div>
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I,being the boring mother who wouldn't miss the chance to teach my child about life and values,promptly started lecturing her with </div>
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'There will always be people with things better than us,we should learn to be happy with what we have as every little thing that we have is a blessing'</div>
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And then the righteous mature realist in me woke up and I added</div>
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'Moreover we don't have that kind of money'</div>
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She looked at me for a moment and said enthusiastically </div>
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'Mummy but we don't money,we only need a magic wand'</div>
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It was then that it hit me,that no amount of reading Harry potter books was going to save me,I was getting old :).I guess to stay happy ,it's very important to keep the child in you alive and your soul young.I know that that's more easier said than done,when your running around the whole day with kids to take care of,keeping a house,work and combating weight gain,hair loss and every other problem that seems to pop up with each passing year,the last thing you think about is magic(and clouds):)But guess all of us have to make time for something which we find magical.Baking is my way of keeping the magic alive,I bake a lot although I hardly post any of it,cause we end up eating most of the stuff when it's hot out of the oven :)So off to the recipe....<span style="text-align: center;"> </span></div>
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<b>Makes about 10 - 12</b></div>
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<b>You'll need:</b></div>
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All purpose Flour - 250 g</div>
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Milk - 200 ml</div>
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Yeast - 2 tsp - 4 gm</div>
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Sugar - 1 Tbsp</div>
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Butter - 4 Tbsp</div>
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salt - 1 tsp</div>
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Some butter,oil and milk to brush</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtZT3WmaQbbb8VAV1ZXOc0dyn3fhGznRUG1eBDRZ9r2Puyb6KUyUhmmi6tBzBvQsd4mZO2QSEvV9Ze3b_Qmx-1lMjese45ZOb_K6lPT7jgGtQ2pDo7tT9Hpc2IKShZf5EasYebQ-yCZg/s1600/pav+buns+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtZT3WmaQbbb8VAV1ZXOc0dyn3fhGznRUG1eBDRZ9r2Puyb6KUyUhmmi6tBzBvQsd4mZO2QSEvV9Ze3b_Qmx-1lMjese45ZOb_K6lPT7jgGtQ2pDo7tT9Hpc2IKShZf5EasYebQ-yCZg/s640/pav+buns+2.JPG" width="496" /></a></div>
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<b>Method:</b></div>
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<b>-</b>Warm the milk,make sure it's lukewarm and not hot,add the yeast and sugar and mix well.Let it sit for 10 - 15 minutes.After 15 minutes the mixture should be frothy.If not please make a new mixture,as fresh or good yeast would froth.</div>
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-Add the Flour,salt and mix well.Add the frothy yeast mixture and knead with your hand,or with a dough hook on your beater .knead until the mixture starts coming together.It will be sticky.</div>
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-Now add the butter and further knead for a few minutes.</div>
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-Now dust your hands with flour and knead the mixture for 10 to 15 minutes,it will a bit sticky,but knead without adding any extra flour.</div>
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-Then keep it in a big bowl and cover with a damp cloth or Plastic foil and let it rise in a warm place until it is double it's size.</div>
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-Now take it out punch and knead again for a few minutes,adding very little flour if needed.Divide the dough into 12- 14 pieces and shape it into small balls and arrange them on a greased/lined with baking paper.Place them about 2- 3 cm apart,pretty close.Cover them with a damp cloth and let them again rise in a warm place for an hour.For Hamburger buns you can round them and place them a little more apart,like the ones in my picture.</div>
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-Preheat the oven for 10 minutes at 200° C.Carefully remove the damp cloth since it tends to stick.Brush with a little milk and bake for 15 minutes at 200°C.</div>
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-Then take them out,brush them with a little butter and let them cool.</div>
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<b>Note:</b>If you stay in a cool place,to let the dough rise:</div>
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-you can keep them near the heater (or)</div>
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-Preheat the oven at the lowest temperature for a few minutes,then switch it off and only switch on the oven light and let the dough rise inside the oven.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheKqKSxz1GTL7Wlfl2i_jAr2vF-75US9c8jYDier_4ZIV-QMi5jdU7l_emaZD1DeFcDudCC4Dssl3FL9i2F1p_Pq1dZT1ULHFZp47YeNFNz_4quZZV62ghMklNzA01mozDK5dm21GQfw/s1600/pav+buns+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheKqKSxz1GTL7Wlfl2i_jAr2vF-75US9c8jYDier_4ZIV-QMi5jdU7l_emaZD1DeFcDudCC4Dssl3FL9i2F1p_Pq1dZT1ULHFZp47YeNFNz_4quZZV62ghMklNzA01mozDK5dm21GQfw/s640/pav+buns+3.JPG" width="460" /></a></div>
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Thanks for stopping by ! Have a nice time Baking!</div>
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Renihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04624890762564423455noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1034555776279194214.post-39018805563627606962017-06-04T08:51:00.001-07:002017-06-08T01:08:43.068-07:00Pav Bhaji Masala Powder<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I'm old school when it comes to cooking,I still believe in making my own spice mixes and preserves at home.After living for almost 10 years away from India ,in a small city with a tiny Asian shop,I felt outdated when I looked at the products stocked on the shelves of the Indian shop here,I felt like someone who was returning back home after years in exile.The market is flooded with products ,there seems to be a ready mix and spice powder for every dish.As much as I'd agree that it would make the job of a busy person easy,I still strongly believe that nothing beats the flavours that a homemade spice mix infuses in a dish.I remember going as a kid along with my mother to the big Grain Mills to grind rice flour and spice powder.It used to be one of those sultry places with the smell of spice powders clinging heavily in the air. There are few of those mills left around now with many people opting for ready made stuff.My mom still grinds her powders in these mills and packs me with them when I visit her.Despite being a working mother she still found or made time for these little chores because she strongly believes, that these things which appear to be trivial actually play an important role in our health.So anything ready made was very rare in our house ,just like eating out :) I usually stock a little of this spice powder in my cupboard,I love sprinkling a pinch of it in many quick dishes.I make it in small batches to keep the flavour fresh.So off to the recipe !<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSuEd8GL9oZyv3Rx5fGRjmtahyphenhyphendbUkj-s6om0PQDo6GTEmZJZkSz6A3FNgq9NdQaeIJQHhYDGWyuB0MpEVNVEDSrNbkfgOVELZ7PG3ESIUra31HFOXNCrQ_6d3POna0PbzQVrnTJqo3w/s1600/Pav+Bhaji+Masala+Powder+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="408" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSuEd8GL9oZyv3Rx5fGRjmtahyphenhyphendbUkj-s6om0PQDo6GTEmZJZkSz6A3FNgq9NdQaeIJQHhYDGWyuB0MpEVNVEDSrNbkfgOVELZ7PG3ESIUra31HFOXNCrQ_6d3POna0PbzQVrnTJqo3w/s640/Pav+Bhaji+Masala+Powder+1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>You'll Need:</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Recipe Adapted from Sanjeev Kapoor</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Armchoor Powder/Dry Mango Powder - 3 Tbsp</div>
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Whole Pepper Corns - 1 tsp</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Whole red Chilli - 20 - 25</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Cumin Seeds - 4 tbsp</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Cinnamon sticks - 10 ( each 3 cm)</div>
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Salt - 2 tsp</div>
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Black Salt - 1/4 tsp</div>
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Cloves - 40 - 50</div>
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Curry leaves - 10 - 12</div>
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Bay Leaves - 4</div>
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Fennel Seeds - 2 tbsp</div>
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Salt - 2 tsp</div>
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<b>Method:</b></div>
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-In a pan on low heat,dry roast the ingredients either one after the other separately or together until they release a nice aroma,Make sure that they don't get burnt.</div>
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-Let them cool and grind to a fine powder<br />
-Store in an airtight container</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiQlcmZq2Nisl7-869W0K5MBCLc2LrUPJPqWJ4lwaPnIiaRn6DefUF4JnwMYWdU3Nbwruncr_D7q2lGF2C54DjIcztceGnPm-xOYntC9Cu2uguEGc-nDCgKSwaqNuZgOHMZbxn93cFRw/s1600/Pav+Bhaji+Masala+Powder+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiQlcmZq2Nisl7-869W0K5MBCLc2LrUPJPqWJ4lwaPnIiaRn6DefUF4JnwMYWdU3Nbwruncr_D7q2lGF2C54DjIcztceGnPm-xOYntC9Cu2uguEGc-nDCgKSwaqNuZgOHMZbxn93cFRw/s640/Pav+Bhaji+Masala+Powder+2.JPG" width="470" /></a><br />
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Thanks for Stopping by ! Happy Cooking !</div>
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Renihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04624890762564423455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1034555776279194214.post-8642471344511920762017-04-27T10:53:00.001-07:002017-04-27T11:04:46.156-07:00Mutton Curry<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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This curry is one of my favourites,I pretty often prepare it at home.I found this recipe in the book Rick Stein's India.This book is really worth a read, you easily get infected with his enthusiasm and passion for Indian food,or what he calls his 'search for the perfect curry'.The book has so many beautiful pictures, not just the usual ones found in books with perfect props and lighting.But very realistic ones too,which perfectly capture the vivid essence and atmosphere of India,the markets with their bountiful produce,the busy roads and people with their earthly,simple expressions.I'm a big fan of his cooking and as I recalled my favourite Chefs I was surprised to find that the list had a lot of men and hardly a few women.Ironically the word Chef in English doesn't even have a female version. I love the German language when it comes to these things,it has no ambiguities,Chefkoch-Chefköchin(Male Chef - Female Chef).I'm not trying to be a feminist ,that's probably one of the most clichéd and misunderstood topics these days :) But surprisingly the recent list of top 10 Chefs around the world,which even had our own Vikhas Khanna on the list doesn't have any women on it.I'd definitely agree that times have changed and men don't look at cooking anymore as only a women's job.It's nice to see most of them pitch in and cook a meal or two sometimes or help around the house.But still I guess in most homes,the major part of the cooking or most of it is still done by women ,irrespective of whether she's a home maker or a working women.I feel that it sometimes takes the joy out of cooking when it becomes a responsibility.I'd call it one of the most thankless jobs around,making sure that there's proper food on the table 3 times a day and everyone is well fed,is a huge responsibility ,but it's not very often recognised or appreciated.What's more funny is that women would still go on doing it contently and happily everyday ,cause that's the way we are wired :)Wonder how often Sanjeev Kapoor and Vikhas Khanna cook at home :P.So off to the recipe,I've slightly tweaked it to suit my quick everyday cooking style,the original recipe calls for overnight marination and about 3 hours of slow cooking !!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSlHKhvNbzste4opILz32kpAMIY3pSA0dFBjz95L1UHU4TMM0sahNLGZtl_j84QR5htJH5NceAaXX_B661oqBDJIlTRSDn7ZdLffih2VWkUTU6NxbTT0r5Y0T6icQ4fUTnRdZxyP6HVw/s1600/Mutton+curry+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="488" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSlHKhvNbzste4opILz32kpAMIY3pSA0dFBjz95L1UHU4TMM0sahNLGZtl_j84QR5htJH5NceAaXX_B661oqBDJIlTRSDn7ZdLffih2VWkUTU6NxbTT0r5Y0T6icQ4fUTnRdZxyP6HVw/s640/Mutton+curry+1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Serves - 4 -6</b></div>
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<b>You'll Need:</b></div>
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<b>To Marinate:</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Ginger and Garlic Grated - 1 tsp each.</div>
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Mutton - 400 g</div>
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Curd - 2 tbsp</div>
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Turmeric powder - 1/2 tsp</div>
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salt a little</div>
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<br /></div>
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Tomato - 1 big one or 2 med ones</div>
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Cashew nuts - 1 tbsp</div>
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-</div>
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Cardamom - 2</div>
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Cloves - 3</div>
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Cinnamom - 1 big piece</div>
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Bayleaf - 1</div>
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Onions - 1 large( finely chopped)</div>
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Coriander powder - 3/4 tbsp</div>
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Chilli Powder - 1/2 tbsp</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Garam Masala Powder - 1/2 tsp</div>
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Ginger garlic paste(coarse ) - 2 tsp</div>
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Coconut milk - 3 - 4 tbsp(optional)</div>
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Oil - 2 tbsp</div>
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salt as needed</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikWW3Y8UVMmBfiy_uw_YiI-IIpYfrrdV4sAR3dLOfzDqhuyx2Ks_AFVZifOm52tFdvCNQQuJ6rcgvz_kH33f4tGetMqUYmOLWVD7ZMsbABB6vvPseDSUnyvVj5VlHNCxOcwd9bMmctXg/s1600/Mutton+curry+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikWW3Y8UVMmBfiy_uw_YiI-IIpYfrrdV4sAR3dLOfzDqhuyx2Ks_AFVZifOm52tFdvCNQQuJ6rcgvz_kH33f4tGetMqUYmOLWVD7ZMsbABB6vvPseDSUnyvVj5VlHNCxOcwd9bMmctXg/s640/Mutton+curry+2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Method:</b><br />
-Marinate the Mutton with the yogurt,turmeric powder and ginger garlic for at least 1 hours,you can also marinate it overnight in the refrigerator.<br />
-In a small vessel add the roughly chopped tomatoes and the cashew nuts and add half a cup of water or more.Let the mixture cook for 5 - 7 minutes.Let it cook and grind to a fine paste.<br />
-To a pressure cooker on medium heat add the oil and when it heats up add the cardamom,cloves and cinnamon and saute it for a few seconds.<br />
-Then add the onion and fry it on a low flame with a pinch of salt for 5 - 10 minutes until they are well browned.Add the ginger garlic paste and fry for a minute,Add the powder and saute for a minute.<br />
-Then add the mutton pieces and some salt and saute for 5 minutes until they are browned.You can add a little water if it gets too dry.<br />
-Add the tomato and cashew puree and saute for a minute,add the bay leaves and add salt it needed.Add about 1/2 - 3/4th cup of water and mix well.<br />
-Now close the pressure cooker and cook until it whistles once on medium flame and for 10 - 20 minutes on low flame(until it's well cooked and soft).The cooking time will be lesser if you have marinated it overnight.<br />
-Take the pressure cooker off the stove and let it cool for a bit.Remove the lid and add the coconut milk and let it simmer for 5 minutes. Done !<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgJkt7xGUrVFMdOaI3EnFk-A-rctZcst_KafWxfJxeoVmZo8lklvpAMTqTdFGrpdz02pXaZQcVLR9WsEW1527Ud9CmujLClB8YTz9KcN5Uzv5Tr6rTfEMmLiZh3joaN51iZoy3P3ZV0g/s1600/Mutton+curry+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgJkt7xGUrVFMdOaI3EnFk-A-rctZcst_KafWxfJxeoVmZo8lklvpAMTqTdFGrpdz02pXaZQcVLR9WsEW1527Ud9CmujLClB8YTz9KcN5Uzv5Tr6rTfEMmLiZh3joaN51iZoy3P3ZV0g/s640/Mutton+curry+3.JPG" width="616" /></a></div>
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Thanks for stopping by ! Happy Cooking !</div>
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Renihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04624890762564423455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1034555776279194214.post-38968404070559386432017-04-03T07:32:00.000-07:002017-04-03T07:39:16.553-07:00Frozen Elsa Birthday Cake - Chocolate Walnut Cake<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
If you were to ask me what I loved about the movie 'Frozen',there would be a real long list,but these three things would definitely top the list.The movie taught little girls that they don't have to wait for their knight in shining armour to save them and true love doesn't always have to be something to do with 'the special one'.I really pity all those helpless fairy tales Princesses who were trapped in towers,cursed or slept for a hundred years until their Prince came along.And honesty I pity the Princes too, who had to fight fire spitting dragons and wicked witches to save the Princess and marry them,only to end up being nagged :)Reminds me when my daughter asked me why all the fairy tales end with 'And they lived happily ever after',guess it should rather be 'And they happily bickered ever after' :P.The second thing I love about the movie is how it brought the colour 'Blue' in the otherwise Pink dominated girl's world.I really wonder who ever came up with these gender based colour notions.Thanks to frozen, it's nice to see so many blue clothes for girls in shops.And the usual pink-Princess filled kids carnival has quite a bit of blue now.My daughter's kindergarten had so many Elsa's during the carnival,there was even a sweet little boy who was dressed up as Elsa.If there's one other thing I love about the movie it's the song 'Let it go'.I'm not talking about the wonderful music or the voice,but the lyrics.Be it 'it's funny how some distance can make everything seem small' or 'to test the limits and break through' or 'the perfect girl is gone',the song is probably one of the most powerful songs I've heard in recent times.I love the other songs in the movie as well,but this one's simply the best.<br />
Thankfully,we are now officially out of the 'Frozen' craze phase ,no more Frozen caps,clips,dresses or shoes :)I wonder what will come along next.I baked this cake for my daughter's 5th Birthday,when she was all into Frozen.I'm very bad when it comes to cake decorating and I respect all those cake decorators who so patiently create those edible wonders.This was my attempt at decorating with fondant.Though I'm not a big fan of Fondant,I must agree that it helps you create beautiful cakes.The cake was a Chocolate Walnut Cake,frosted and filled with Chocolate Ganache and covered with Fondant.The cake is rich and delicious,a perfect Party cake.Believe me, if you like me,are a beginner at cake decorating,this one's easy to make and simply yummy !<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4_PKLtW910zMbB_0xhOsNtskf7rpi9S8K8VABe9Ud6q5J7ul3tSlrjY6xIDtDIFVU6QPqu__cDTgBh5mNPA_w-mZ90Rp10sZke0jx7H7_IN6fYgw3CeBtqhmM6rsAW6HNQJEtUG4thA/s1600/Frozen+Elsa+Cake+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4_PKLtW910zMbB_0xhOsNtskf7rpi9S8K8VABe9Ud6q5J7ul3tSlrjY6xIDtDIFVU6QPqu__cDTgBh5mNPA_w-mZ90Rp10sZke0jx7H7_IN6fYgw3CeBtqhmM6rsAW6HNQJEtUG4thA/s640/Frozen+Elsa+Cake+1.jpg" width="638" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>You'll Need:</b><br />
A small barbie doll,whose legs are detached.<br />
<b>Fondant:</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Blue Fondant - 750 gm - 1 Kg</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
White Fondant - a little</div>
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<b>For the Cake :</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
You will need approximately twice the batter</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(Adapted from Rose's Heavenly Cakes )</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
All-Purpose Flour - 2 cups- 230 gm<br />
Sugar - 1 and 1/4 cup - 250 gm<br />
Butter - 225 g ( at room temperature)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Eggs - 3 large (at room temperature)<br />
Sour Cream - 1 cups - 250 gm</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Baking Powder- 1 and 1/4 tsp<br />
Baking soda - 1/2 tsp</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Cocoa powder - 3/4 cup - 56 gm</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Walnuts - 2/3 cup - 66 gm<br />
Vanilla essence - 2 tsp<br />
<b>Ganache for Filling:</b><br />
Heavy Cream - 200 g<br />
Dark Baking chocolate - 200 g(broken into small pieces)<br />
<b>Ganache for Frosting:</b><br />
Heavy Cream - 300 g<br />
Dark Baking chocolate - 600 g(broken into small pieces)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJv9VinaqOhMLJ9lRLDPPe578SBUdr59TT1XgV1lnenvzT937PpPV2ZaU8sGgYWPi8JUbdi1qHl0LBrui-fA0B5klwygytY3L7UT0DLGgC9MDjk3RKU__vayETj13Ryj-F5OLDHFg-FA/s1600/Frozen+cake+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJv9VinaqOhMLJ9lRLDPPe578SBUdr59TT1XgV1lnenvzT937PpPV2ZaU8sGgYWPi8JUbdi1qHl0LBrui-fA0B5klwygytY3L7UT0DLGgC9MDjk3RKU__vayETj13Ryj-F5OLDHFg-FA/s640/Frozen+cake+1.jpg" width="530" /></a></div>
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<b>Method:</b><br />
<b>For the cake.</b><br />
-I baked them in 3 layers and in one small dome shaped bowl for the dress shape.<br />
-It is better to bake the cake and let it cool overnight,covered by a clean linen cloth.<br />
-Pre-heat the oven to 350°F/175 ° C and spread the walnuts on a baking tray and bake for 5 -7 minutes.Take it out the oven and cool and grind to a coarse powder.Make sure to grind in pulses else they suddenly turn into a paste.<br />
-In a small bowl whisk the sour cream,eggs,cocoa and essence slightly.<br />
-In a big bowl beat the flour,walnuts ,sugar,baking powder,baking soda and salt for 30 sec on low speed.<br />
-Add half of the whisked cocoa liquid mixture and the butter and beat on low speed until everything is moistened.Increase the speed to medium and beat for another minute or two.Scrape the sides of the bowl and beat for another 30 secs.<br />
-Add the remaining cocoa liquid mixture in two parts,beating for 30 seconds after each addition<br />
-Fill the pans until 3/4th full and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F/175 ° C for 30 - 40 minutes.The baking time varies depending upon the pan type,size and the oven.It can take anywhere between 30 - 50 minutes.A small skewer inserted into the middle should come out clean.Make sure you line the pans with baking paper and apply some butter and toss some four on the sides.<br />
-After the cake is cooled in the pan for 5 minutes,loosen the sides and take the cake out.<br />
<b>Ganache</b>:<br />
-In a double boiler,start boiling some water.Now place a bowl with the cream and the broken chocolate on the double boiler such that the bottom of the vessel doesn't touch the water.On low heat as the water simmers let the chocolate melt,mix it gently once or twice with a fork.Once the chocolate is almost melted,remove it from the stove and mix well with the fork so that there are no lumps.Now let it cool overnight until it reaches room temperature.<br />
-Make the Ganache for frosting and filling separately and let them cool overnight,covered with a plastic foil.<br />
<b>Fondant:</b><br />
-Roll the blue fondant to a big round .<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZoDD1RcG5QG2omPYz-jrGc1H2RSB_8DBxnvRcfLuYK1uNriiHlLdKyt07wjnYpueNR887Mlt6iiEAyjvQZXzhbt9CrcTsCJxhrV4iGxKSRFRwZIn1Ikx3TYeHJUzpb6TsyTIO2JsVeQ/s1600/Frozen+Elsa+Cake+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZoDD1RcG5QG2omPYz-jrGc1H2RSB_8DBxnvRcfLuYK1uNriiHlLdKyt07wjnYpueNR887Mlt6iiEAyjvQZXzhbt9CrcTsCJxhrV4iGxKSRFRwZIn1Ikx3TYeHJUzpb6TsyTIO2JsVeQ/s640/Frozen+Elsa+Cake+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Assembly:</b><br />
<b>-</b>Bake three round layers (I baked 15 cm x 4 cm )of the cake.And another small pan or bowl with the cake batter,to get the dome shape.Insert a skewer in the base of the Doll so that it can be placed on the cake.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx6VXZ01Cjm2GqrGoi4zdq0R1QtN49gQQVLyqD9yXnwdCqHCADEUYBTY63Bb8QmVlzvAgXSaMHjy2T1aJKFge0At4MmddnKp4M6euH_WSBHiQBn3MzqCrq-iPBgnrsEpgrTUjBIAQOmQ/s1600/Pans.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx6VXZ01Cjm2GqrGoi4zdq0R1QtN49gQQVLyqD9yXnwdCqHCADEUYBTY63Bb8QmVlzvAgXSaMHjy2T1aJKFge0At4MmddnKp4M6euH_WSBHiQBn3MzqCrq-iPBgnrsEpgrTUjBIAQOmQ/s320/Pans.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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-Place the cake layers ,one on top of each other filling the layers with the 'Filling Ganache'.Finally place the dome shape.Now carve the cake in the front side of the doll to make a slightly vertical surface,this is the area where the dress (Fondant) falls straight,it has a hump at the back,the dome takes care of the hump.<br />
-Now frost the cake smoothly with the 'Frosting Ganache'.Gently lift the fondant and place it over the cake and arrange it to look like the dress.Cut some more pieces of rolled white and blue fondant to make the dress for the upper body.<br />
-The rolling and lifting the fondant can be a bit tricky.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWxsXwc3qsuvkxdv0R0xvRgWQWzx9Z_FW6Rqa-RPNW19WMJBx0IPPHmfG9FQIwIkP7eFTF8-iLUbEnX3GoFLuVxlXdTDsVHqfTN9Xp3R7k488YEJBKZVKuoCVZAg8dTccJiqrx8T1YYg/s1600/Frozen+cake+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWxsXwc3qsuvkxdv0R0xvRgWQWzx9Z_FW6Rqa-RPNW19WMJBx0IPPHmfG9FQIwIkP7eFTF8-iLUbEnX3GoFLuVxlXdTDsVHqfTN9Xp3R7k488YEJBKZVKuoCVZAg8dTccJiqrx8T1YYg/s640/Frozen+cake+3.jpg" width="522" /></a></div>
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<b>Note:</b></div>
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<b>-</b>The sour cream can be replaced with thick yogurt,this is one more substitute that I found online:</div>
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Homemade sour cream: Mix 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream with 2-3 teaspoons lemon juice in a bowl. Whisk until it starts to thicken. Cover with plastic wrap and leave at room temperature for 1 hour or until thicker (leaving it overnight gives best results)</div>
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This is yet another version of the Chocolate Walnut Cake :</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKgflHIJ4pWDWtzaGBHM_LUJG_MsGDQjktUq3IIkvL39eajGaQ99xgO1tPe-rGeqbm81Lkwz6NzQl2o-wZfRdcHSMtQThU2LrE0q6pC2VlRpHKVLHqLfU-SGXUV3VRUqDn8gA5OMBCLw/s1600/Chocolate+Walnut+Cake.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKgflHIJ4pWDWtzaGBHM_LUJG_MsGDQjktUq3IIkvL39eajGaQ99xgO1tPe-rGeqbm81Lkwz6NzQl2o-wZfRdcHSMtQThU2LrE0q6pC2VlRpHKVLHqLfU-SGXUV3VRUqDn8gA5OMBCLw/s640/Chocolate+Walnut+Cake.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
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Thanks for Stopping by ! Happy Baking !</div>
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Renihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04624890762564423455noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1034555776279194214.post-21157534625987196612017-03-10T03:02:00.002-08:002017-03-10T03:29:43.172-08:00Jangri<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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As an avid reader I would say that there's nothing like the joy of discovering a new author.You would have come across a lot of authors, but there are only a few authors,who with their narration would literally teleport you inside the book.It leaves you with a feeling of not reading but actually watching things unfold in front of your eyes.I recently got to read the book 'Temple' by 'Mathew Reilly',If you enjoy reading fast paced thrillers, where CIA agents go chasing the bad guys with guns drawn and their Hi-Tech devices,you would definitely love this book.The story-line alternates between current happenings and happenings during the Spanish occupation in Peru in the 14th century.It's the historical touch that makes the book very special.I am a big fan of History,I believe that History,like science is one of those things that makes you realise that you are a very tiny part of a big Universe ,but you're still significant.The story is about the search for an Idol worshipped by the Incas,which was carved from a meteorite that hit the earth before a long time.The Idol was hence believed to have rare nuclear properties which could be used to make a destructive weapon.The Incas on the other hand are waiting for the chosen man who would save them and their idol,thereby fulfilling their old prophecy.The story starts with the search of a manuscript which holds the secret hiding place of the Idols.The book takes you back to the period of the Incas,one of the largest and most interesting civilisations. The book gives you a glimpse of everything about the Incas,like how they never used Mortar to construct their Temples,but instead used interlocking stones to build air tight structures or about their sacred animal,the Rapa. I couldn't help thinking about the similarities between Indian mythology and the Inca civilisation,like the belief about how moles on the face have a significance or the construction of their temples,or the usage of the trident , the weapon of Lord Shiva in India and the weapon of Poseidon in Greek Mythology.I wonder how the book has not yet been made into a movie.Though I guess a few Tamil movies like Ayirathil Oruvan and Mundasupatti seem to be inspired from the book :) The book also talks a bit about the atrocities done by the so called Developed or First world countries during their colonisation and occupation in the third world or under developed countries,which makes you think that the word civilisation needs to be redefined. It was an amazing read and once I was done reading the book, I felt like I was back from a trip to South America. I've been reading quite a few interesting books and will soon come back with another one !!</div>
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Coming to the recipe this is one of my all time favourite sweets.It's usually confused with Jalebi,but I would call it a lot healthier(if you ignore the frying and the soaking in the sugar syrup:)) because it's made from Urad dal. It takes a bit of patient cooking ,but it's worth the effort.The cloth press makes all the difference,it doesn't take a lot of time to make,but makes the job very easy.So off to the recipe !!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU43uBlOZpI3Olbw8krNIvCNEjeaMyrZVuDAXnd6y6GZceS02OWIx96_Q7bkz1VmuhzBBl8XAMbZETs-UVT_kK_XySp1cUCdSt1Zm7I0UvKdyQirnm0Dm4eeRWJH5nKsS9bMIfAv3LcQ/s1600/Jangri+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU43uBlOZpI3Olbw8krNIvCNEjeaMyrZVuDAXnd6y6GZceS02OWIx96_Q7bkz1VmuhzBBl8XAMbZETs-UVT_kK_XySp1cUCdSt1Zm7I0UvKdyQirnm0Dm4eeRWJH5nKsS9bMIfAv3LcQ/s640/Jangri+4.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<b>Makes about 30</b></div>
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<b>You'll Need:</b></div>
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<b>To soak and grind :</b></div>
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Urad Dal/Black Gram Dal - 1 cup</div>
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Raw Rice - 1/4 cup</div>
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Red colour a pinch</div>
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salt a pinch</div>
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<b>For the sugar syrup:</b></div>
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Sugar - 1 1/2 to 2 cups</div>
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Red colour powder - a pinch</div>
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Rose essence -1 tsp or Rose water - 2 tbsp</div>
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Water - 2 cups</div>
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Oil to deep fry</div>
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A thick cloth to make the press</div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigXs9yuqgzAedCqxb_8AO158uq29uc-SKvJxTbdzY5xlEjbNgfUICObMhQMtOpqJc8etei3CAnnhtPlXES6VKbbsABknrh6QxffSIqtk2QyzKyiWddEQYoV3OK4WDlPADFPzoOIJteGw/s640/Jangri+3.jpg" /></div>
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<b>Method:</b></div>
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<b>For the press:</b></div>
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-Take a thick cloth and make a tiny hole with a scissor,and them sew around the hole like a button hole to make the hole tight and give it a shape.The total diameter of the hole should be about the diameter of a real big nail,not more.</div>
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<b>For the Batter:</b></div>
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-Soak urad dal and rice in water(the water level should be about an inch above the rice and urad dal) for an hour.</div>
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-In a Grinder add the urad dal and rice and add about two tbsps of water.(Drain the excess water from the urad dal after soaking and you can use this water to add during grinding)</div>
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-Grind under the mixture turns coarse but fluffy. Sprinkle water in little quantities as you grind,the total quantity of water should be a maximum of quarter cup.Be careful about the water as it can make the batter runny.</div>
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-Now remove the batter from the grinder and add the red colour powder into it and mix well.</div>
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<b>For the syrup:</b></div>
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-In a pan mix the water and the sugar and let it boil on medium heat for 3 -5 minutes and,until all the sugar is dissolved and it starts getting thick,it shouldn't be very thick.Add the colour powder and essence and take it off the stove.</div>
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<b style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXlVKCfeFU7z_0MOYoxHab9yS4vJc0Ltj-hB95cej6Neoxt3nOabWDrbLS8sukN4iruRsVrgi6q9R7f33z651gs2q-tc4Avb0UzAdvy_5d451mLY70iaUa2nnuBsyKAx5QqKB2fd0PWA/s1600/Jangri+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXlVKCfeFU7z_0MOYoxHab9yS4vJc0Ltj-hB95cej6Neoxt3nOabWDrbLS8sukN4iruRsVrgi6q9R7f33z651gs2q-tc4Avb0UzAdvy_5d451mLY70iaUa2nnuBsyKAx5QqKB2fd0PWA/s400/Jangri+1.jpg" width="400" /></a></b></div>
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<b>For the Jangeri:</b></div>
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-In a wide mouthed pan, on low to medium heat,heat about 1 to 2 inches of oil .The oil should not smoke or get too hot.It works well when the oil is not too hot.Now start piping the Jangeris. Pipe two big circles and tiny circles around it.Meanwhile keep the sugar syrup warm near by ,it should be warm.If it gets thick you can add some water to it,but make sure it is warm.Cook the Jangeris,flipping them on both sides.Then take the Jangeris out and drop them in the sugar syrup,let them soak for a minute and take them out and store them.Make sure that the Jangeris don't get browned.I found that you can even remove the pan with the oil from the stove if it gets too hot and put it back again,And the sugar syrup has to be warm while dipping,else it doesn't work well.The piping gets easier after you've piped a few Jangeris.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoMO05mcKu5GXGL1xHyKWzHFOHbOig4-wadJDYhKqTmobtroXikL-Ud36-GXhJkW2RtUQoWW6QA5iw5HCf_hQOt12xaXjSnfojDWNVdRYUBuCZhFgMLmcjGebbvv8Ov1EDq0P4_Ua-gA/s1600/Jangri+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoMO05mcKu5GXGL1xHyKWzHFOHbOig4-wadJDYhKqTmobtroXikL-Ud36-GXhJkW2RtUQoWW6QA5iw5HCf_hQOt12xaXjSnfojDWNVdRYUBuCZhFgMLmcjGebbvv8Ov1EDq0P4_Ua-gA/s640/Jangri+2.jpg" width="528" /></a></div>
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Thanks for stopping by ! Happy cooking !</div>
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Renihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04624890762564423455noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1034555776279194214.post-1594598507583068142017-02-10T09:55:00.000-08:002017-02-10T09:55:39.765-08:00Rose Cake<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Guess if you've been following my blog you would have by this time got fed up with my disappearing act.This time apart from the usual excuses like kids sick,holidays,laziness ,I have a new excuse:We moved to a new city.Little did I expect moving to be so difficult,it took me weeks to dig out the modem which I had safely packed in an unlabelled box.Not to mention my kids making moving things from one labelled box to another a game,which made unpacking even harder.I think moving is easy if you are the kind of person who easily parts with things.I have a serious problem with throwing away things.Every little legless doll, broken toy ,book full of scribblings,old dress and twisted spoon is usually associated with a fond memory and packed away safely.I try to save each and every paper and book that I enjoyed reading,which made shifting a nightmare.Shifting taught me a very important lesson for life:to keep things as simple as possible.During the past few months there was a phase when we had to stay in our old house in just one room with sparse furniture for almost a month.Most of our stuff ,including the TV was shifted to the new one.The kids had no toys,just one or two of their favourites, and they seemed to be pretty happy.Mainly because we were spending more time with them .It was then that I realised that most of the things that we pile up are extravagances and what we actually need is very little.We are caught in this whirlpool of buying and updating things that we never actually stop to enjoy the simpler things in life.And some times we let these materialistic things even define us.It reminds me of a strange dream that I once had,I am one of those people who remember their dreams,that's a blessing and a bane :) In this dream I was near a small stream and before me ,people were crossing the stream barefoot on stepping stones.They had just a small cloth pack in their hands.As I approached the river an old man came up to me and told me that once I cross the stream, I won't be able to come back .So I could go back and get three things which matter the most to me to carry along,cause I won't be needing anything else on the other side.Then I woke up.What would you pick if you just had to take three things with you :) Makes me wonder if it is really all that easy to keep things simple.Well the truth is always hard to handle.Guess this turned out to be a philosophical post:)Lots seem to have happened since I last posted .USA has a new president,Jallikattu is back and Tamil Nadu politics has become more thrilling than Game of thrones,I really wonder who'll sit on the Iron Throne :) And hope I'd get to post more regularly !<br />
Coming to the recipe,this cake is for those people who love Rose essence and rose flavour..The cake is extremely soft and spongy and uses very little butter.It looks very appealing when baked in a rose cake form.So off to the recipe !<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggyBN_0jsixhxzqdoLNS5524lgTe-1MmCjmLUgJHDCmqxFf6XNmvdQmaQpDD3gacXSzMZ3hGcICWFEgeX_zgMnrfTi8BjeC5rrn9Iuq28pPClh4pua-8pNl1stuNr8O_L2_fOHjLAWiQ/s1600/Rose+Cake+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggyBN_0jsixhxzqdoLNS5524lgTe-1MmCjmLUgJHDCmqxFf6XNmvdQmaQpDD3gacXSzMZ3hGcICWFEgeX_zgMnrfTi8BjeC5rrn9Iuq28pPClh4pua-8pNl1stuNr8O_L2_fOHjLAWiQ/s640/Rose+Cake+2.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<b>Serves :</b> 8 - 10</div>
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<b>Adapted from</b> : Martha Stewart Cakes</div>
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<b>You'll Need:</b></div>
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Butter - 100 gm -Little less than 1/2 a cup</div>
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All purpose flour/Maida - 1 1/2 cups</div>
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Baking Powder - 1 1/2 tsp</div>
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Salt - a pinch</div>
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Eggs - 3 large(room temperature)</div>
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Sugar - 200 gm - 1 cup</div>
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Whole Milk - 125 ml - 1/2 cup</div>
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Rose Water - 5 Tbsp</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYsNRO1L2EFBhzcsEriacgM86Lsalr-e4i4HxrJWvEG-MtTWJh1Qz1vF22JFqmeSdfMccdZBUUdvF5itVT8ojUVbEc7mApEHAyzd32Fkl9UP8e9ZZDNjw_rXcgLqzicZJU53EHD-SoCg/s1600/Rose+Cake+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYsNRO1L2EFBhzcsEriacgM86Lsalr-e4i4HxrJWvEG-MtTWJh1Qz1vF22JFqmeSdfMccdZBUUdvF5itVT8ojUVbEc7mApEHAyzd32Fkl9UP8e9ZZDNjw_rXcgLqzicZJU53EHD-SoCg/s640/Rose+Cake+1.JPG" width="488" /></a></div>
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<b>Method:</b><br />
-In a big bowl sift the Flour,Baking Powder and salt.<br />
-In another bowl beat the eggs and sugar until it turns fluffy,3 - 5 minutes.<br />
-Preheat the oven to 350 °F. Butter the cake form and dust it with flour (rose form or 9" round form)<br />
-In a small pan ,heat the butter and the milk on low flame until the butter is melted and small bubbles start appearing.<br />
-Now add the sifted flour to the egg&sugar mixture and beat until well combined in medium speed.<br />
-With the beater on medium speed add the milk and butter mixture and beat until well combined.<br />
-Add the rose water and beat for a few seconds.<br />
-Fill the baking pan with the mixture until 3/4th full and bake for 30 - 40 minutes,until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.Let it cool on the pan for 10 minutes,then loosen the sides ,remove it from the pan and let it cool completely.Done !<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Thanks for stopping by ! Happy Baking !</div>
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Renihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04624890762564423455noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1034555776279194214.post-40774224975618702072016-10-02T10:20:00.004-07:002016-10-02T10:32:29.040-07:00Rice Murukku<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="text-align: justify;">The other day I met another Indian lady and she smiled back at me.I was surprised,we Indians,as strange as this sounds,never smile at each other.We adeptly recognise each other from pretty far away and then make sure that we don't make eye contact.Our radars are well developed,we even sense if we speak the same language,in other words,we even recognise if we are from the same state or part of India and then decide if we need to smile.I have no clue why most Indians do this,but it could be partly because we are told right from our childhood to be cautious around strangers.Well this lady and me smiled at each other and then started speaking with each other in English.After the lady had left another friend of mine asked me why we Indians always speak with each other in English.</span></div>
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'Is English your mother tongue ?'</div>
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'No,Tamil is my mother tongue.'</div>
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'Then English ?'</div>
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'Well,you could call that my Father tongue '</div>
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She laughs.'Well then German ?'</div>
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Me promptly 'That's my Husband tongue'</div>
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After a good laugh ,I told her how we Indians,despite having so many languages, resort to speaking in English which is more or less a common tongue.And yes we do have our official language Hindi,which we south Indians do speak a bit,thanks to Shah Rukh Khan and Bollywood,but a very few of us actually master it enough ,to hold a decent conversation .Which leaves us with no other choice but to switch to English,which is definitely better than our Hindi ('Ek Ghao mein ek kisaan raghu thaatha ') !!</div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
Coming to the recipe this is a very yummy snack that can be prepared in no time.The flour, if prepared from scratch at home, could take a long time to make,but if you have store brought rice flour at hand,it makes the job very easy.This murruku is usually referred to as 'Thenkuzhal',which i assume has something to do with the press.But I can never call it that because the only 'Thenkuzhal' I remember fondly are the ones I had as a kid in my grandma's place.They,true to the name Thenkuzhal-Honeytubes,were sweet and oozed out sugar syrup.So for me these would always be Muruuku :) So off to the recipe !!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk3jUTkI78hwJxgFpokcW_Vj5s7tDdfFHsy4fies7L5Ntbk1_lRX9axbjH4MsAXJTULgWRTifhHe-hASfXyj0R4v_JcCc-NomfCBr3X5kY9sZ9bW3qpHOAMDnaxkH1PDakRXkwEOFMFw/s1600/Murukku+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk3jUTkI78hwJxgFpokcW_Vj5s7tDdfFHsy4fies7L5Ntbk1_lRX9axbjH4MsAXJTULgWRTifhHe-hASfXyj0R4v_JcCc-NomfCBr3X5kY9sZ9bW3qpHOAMDnaxkH1PDakRXkwEOFMFw/s640/Murukku+1.JPG" width="510" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>You'll Need:</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Rice Flour - 1 and 1/4 cups</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Urad dal Flour - 1/4 cup</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Melted salted butter - 2 tbsp</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Cumin seeds - 1 tsp</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
salt - 1 and 1/4 tsp</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Hing a pinch</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
oil as needed for deep frying</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Water as needed</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Murukku press</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Method:</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
-<b>For the flours : </b>For the rice flour - I used store brought Idiyappam/String hoppers rice flour.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
For the Urad dal flour- Dry roast the urad dal on a pan on low heat,once it gives a nice aroma,grind it to a fine powder.Make sure it doesn't get burnt.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
-In a bowl add the flours and the salt and mix well.Next add the butter and mix with you hand.When you take a little between your fingers and press it,it should hold its shape for a few seconds ,before crumbling.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
-Mix the hing in the water.Add the water little by little to the flour to make a medium tight dough.Be careful with the amount of water as it can make the dough soggy.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
-Heat the oil in the pan and let it heat up,it shouldn't be very hot,let it stay on medium heat.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
-Now add a portion of the dough in the press and pipe shapes on a baking paper or any surface greased with oil so that it doesn't stick.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
-Always keep the remaining portion of the dough covered with a damp cloth.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
-Carefully slide the piped shape into the hot oil and fry it ,turning it over in between.When it's done the oil around it will stop sizzling.Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
-Once they are cooled store them in airtight containers.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6pnKWnVqwDx7eDYz3J6cY07332PE4kcwQbpQ6m00rX1oZje0HgV6v3BWNEyuIMH9S7zLa1ArgG_2n8bhxe_9-0_-bOt_1GseQiSQtAxpln6Up0chn5OBzwtljjxRLOG8ELY4KrtzJYg/s1600/Murukku+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6pnKWnVqwDx7eDYz3J6cY07332PE4kcwQbpQ6m00rX1oZje0HgV6v3BWNEyuIMH9S7zLa1ArgG_2n8bhxe_9-0_-bOt_1GseQiSQtAxpln6Up0chn5OBzwtljjxRLOG8ELY4KrtzJYg/s640/Murukku+3.JPG" width="466" /></a></div>
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Thanks for stopping by ! Have a nice day !</div>
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Renihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04624890762564423455noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1034555776279194214.post-41789801772560907202016-10-02T10:19:00.000-07:002016-10-02T10:19:06.340-07:00Butter Murukku<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
This is another version of Rice Murukku,it can be made more quickly and easily as they don't even need to be pressed into shapes,they can be pressed directly into the oil.The process is more or less similar to the rice murukku,These ones are super soft and melt in your mouth !!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiScgUs6QnPpgTEJ9JypPlQzMzIITdACcRi3i5jhOHiJk5wcrVidbqWpadGozvbunYwZpnXFY620DofywYUf6j31KdRn571zL1yJCM_Shw6aTqnzIHqqtJ1ea4feJ2FPqlXIJygK-Re4g/s1600/Butter+Murukku+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiScgUs6QnPpgTEJ9JypPlQzMzIITdACcRi3i5jhOHiJk5wcrVidbqWpadGozvbunYwZpnXFY620DofywYUf6j31KdRn571zL1yJCM_Shw6aTqnzIHqqtJ1ea4feJ2FPqlXIJygK-Re4g/s640/Butter+Murukku+1.JPG" width="510" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>You'll Need:</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Rice Flour - 1 and 1/4 cups</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Daria/Roasted Chana Dal/Pottukkadalai powder - 2 Tbsp</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Melted salted butter - 2 - 3 tbsp</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Cumin seeds (optional)- 1 tsp</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
salt - 1 and 1/4 tsp</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Hing a pinch</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
oil as needed for deep frying</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Water as needed</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Murukku press<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Method:</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
-<b>For the flours : </b>For the rice flour - I used store brought Idiyappam/String hoppers rice flour.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
For the Daria powder - Just grind Daria to a fine powder.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
-In a bowl add the flours and the salt and mix well.Next add the butter and mix with you hand .When you take a little between your fingers and press it,it should hold its shape for a few seconds ,before crumbling.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
-Mix the hing in the water.Add the water little by little to the flour to make a medium tight dough.Be careful with the amount of water as it can make the dough soggy.<br />
-Heat the oil in the pan and let it heat up,it shouldn't be very hot,let it stay on medium heat.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
-Now add a portion of the dough in the press .<br />
-Always keep the remaining portion of the dough covered with a damp cloth.<br />
-Pipe into the hot oil and fry them ,turning it over in between.When they are done the oil around them will stop sizzling.Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
-Once they are cooled store them in airtight containers.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjywnnsKkHtZQfyiI_p0mMUG6lLUMoE36AYPumnMRURLHHK_aK_6CjS_YNiqkjArO8Wm_lAuUURc9mSlhSe95bOWYfhyphenhyphengJO_rgyyuIIGdXQ3he0wun-UuIcR3rs60X3MQOTzigIDzPhyphenhyphenA/s1600/Butter+Murukku+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjywnnsKkHtZQfyiI_p0mMUG6lLUMoE36AYPumnMRURLHHK_aK_6CjS_YNiqkjArO8Wm_lAuUURc9mSlhSe95bOWYfhyphenhyphengJO_rgyyuIIGdXQ3he0wun-UuIcR3rs60X3MQOTzigIDzPhyphenhyphenA/s640/Butter+Murukku+2.JPG" width="484" /></a></div>
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Thanks for stopping by ! Have a nice day !</div>
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Renihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04624890762564423455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1034555776279194214.post-80690318347106422622016-09-16T10:04:00.002-07:002016-09-18T06:28:55.231-07:00ABC Breakfast Muffins<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Sometimes when you hear a certain old song or read a certain book or watch a certain old movie ,doesn't it make you get all nostalgic and literally take you back in time to a certain phase in life.Mostly they rekindle pleasant and fond memories.Watching them or listening to them makes you feel so happy and young.I have books,songs and movies that mark almost every important phase in my life :)Once you have kids the songs and movies are replaced by cartoons and rhymes.I remember every phase of my daughter's life with cartoons,Mary had a little lamb - she's laughing and cruising,Pocoyo - she's running around, Caillou - she's talking ,Peppa Pig - Kindergarten and now Mia and Me - School :) I know I sound like that perfect bad parent who uses cartoons as her baby sitter.As much as you'd condemn the cartoons,I'm indebted to them.They are those angels who help me get at least 30 minutes of break to get something done around the house.Now I'm not talking about those cartoons where the characters speaks Filmy dialogues :) The last time on my India trip I was honestly astonished with the cartoons on certain TV channels.Chinese cartoon characters speaking Tamil movie dialogues,the world is indeed becoming small.Well I did grow up watching Uncle Scrooge (Duck Tales) talking Hindi ,but watching Hattori sing 'Naan aducha thange maate' is heights of comedy :) I sort of believe that good cartoons do benefit our kids,they do pick up a few good things from them.The only thing I don't like is the way they portray these perfect parents who never raise they voices and keep their calm like a Buddha statue :) Guess cartoons have taken over my life,when everybody else were curious to know who Jon Snow's (GoT) parents were,I was breaking my head over who Charlie and Lola's parents were,don't you think it's spooky,they never ever show them :p</div>
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Coming to the recipe,this is a perfect snack box recipe.What I love about it ,is it's ease of preparing,just mix all the ingredients in a bowl and bake.I stumbled across the vegan version of this recipe on 'The Minimalist baker's blog'.She has a wonderful collection of easy vegan recipes. I've changed the recipe a bit and I used very ripe bananas,it kind of gave it a creamy taste.When you have those bananas which are so ripe that their skins are almost fully black,this is is the perfect recipe to use them up.I named them ABC because they have apples,bananas and carrots in them.They taste super yum for breakfast and stay good for a day or two. So off to the recipe !!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXUibVtmVYnIDhvqjKmcBbRVmkG3foRAhNGqNqcWOLGDWO3U0Azj5usjYnkblypn5kbNeFwxbolZTF6x7gWqPf1V24lb0kmM1mrRmwnl4Wc0pDVagHNk30kh-SvPhBxzdx9RM98_jo5w/s1600/ABC+Muffins+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXUibVtmVYnIDhvqjKmcBbRVmkG3foRAhNGqNqcWOLGDWO3U0Azj5usjYnkblypn5kbNeFwxbolZTF6x7gWqPf1V24lb0kmM1mrRmwnl4Wc0pDVagHNk30kh-SvPhBxzdx9RM98_jo5w/s640/ABC+Muffins+3.JPG" width="512" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Makes about 8 muffins</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Recipe adapted from <a href="http://minimalistbaker.com/one-bowl-carrot-apple-muffins-vegan-gf/">here</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>You'll Need:</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Egg - 1</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Olive oil - 4 tbsp</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Honey - 4 tbsp</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Salt - 1/2 tsp</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Cinnamon powder - 1/2 tsp</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Milk - 1/2 cup - 125 ml</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Carrot - 2 grated - 1 cup</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Apple grated(Finely) - 1 or unsweetened Apple sauce - 1/2 cup</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Half a big banana - mashed - 1/2 a cup</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Spelt Flour/Whole Wheat Flour - 1 cup</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Oats - 3/4 cup</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Almond powder - 3 - 4 tbsp</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Brown Sugar - 1/2 a cup</div>
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<b>Method:</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
-Preheat the oven to 150°C/ .Line a muffin tray with 8 muffin cups.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
-In a big mixing bowl add the egg,olive oil ,honey ,mashed banana and whisk.Next add the salt,cinnamon powder,sugar and apple and whisk.</div>
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-Next add the grated carrot and milk and mix.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
-Finally add the spelt flour,oats and almond flower and mix well.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
-Divide the batter equally among the 8 muffin cups and bake for 25 - 35 minutes.Keep checking from the 25th minute,mine were done by the 30th minute.I use a small OTG,the baking time and temperature might vary with oven.Use the temperature settings used for cake baking :)</div>
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Thanks for stopping by ! Have a nice day!</div>
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Renihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04624890762564423455noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1034555776279194214.post-88471118016579902482016-09-06T01:21:00.001-07:002016-09-06T01:21:05.210-07:00Aviyal<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Have you ever noticed that your food taste changes over the years.I remember being a very picky eater as a kid.I'd rather starve than eat food that I didn't favour,and the list of foods that I didn't like was pretty long.But over the years,call it maturity or ageing, I started eating most of these stuff,partly because I realised the health benefits they offer or I just started liking them.I still don't like certain varieties of Spinach though ,and I still try to swallow them with a cup of water :) Aviyal was probably the last thing on my list as a kid,it was synonymous with my grand mom's place.My mom hails from a small town in the border of Tamil Nadu and Kerala,and everything in the town from the food habits to culture is so similar to Kerala ,that I sometime wonder why the town is still a part of Tamil Nadu. Coconuts,fish and Aviyals are a part of day to day cooking.I started liking Aviyal mainly during my pregnancy,it's such a nutritious dish with so many vegetables and involves absolutely no sauteing.This dish really helps,when your heightened sense of smell and tiredness makes cooking difficult during pregnancy.This is not an authentic version of it,but I tweak it to fit whatever I find in my kitchen :)It pairs up well with rice ,So off to the recipe.....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8HBZ6fmcvl5ytSLFjgDFyHYVnEeIpW52OKWBMc-S3QKjgZdP6gIX-V4BqknzjpamqlEr8qWxlS2FrlJeRaOumBIkaVT-QxJFdvDOLZR-m6IhwVz1JmeNCmrNZmuMR2nrwARLRcVq1HQ/s1600/Aviyal+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="520" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8HBZ6fmcvl5ytSLFjgDFyHYVnEeIpW52OKWBMc-S3QKjgZdP6gIX-V4BqknzjpamqlEr8qWxlS2FrlJeRaOumBIkaVT-QxJFdvDOLZR-m6IhwVz1JmeNCmrNZmuMR2nrwARLRcVq1HQ/s640/Aviyal+1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>You'll Need:</b></div>
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Drumstick - 1/2 a long one(cleaned and chopped into 2" pieces)</div>
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Carrot - 1 medium(cleaned and chopped)</div>
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Potato or yam - a small one(cleaned ,peeled and chopped)</div>
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Raw Banana - 1 big(cleaned ,peeled and chopped)<br />
Curd - 2 - 3 tbsp<br />
Turmeric Powder - a pinch<br />
salt as needed<br />
<b>To Grind:</b></div>
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Green Chilli - 1 to 2</div>
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Coconut- 2 tbsp(grated)</div>
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Cumin Seeds - 1/2 tsp</div>
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Whole Pepper Corns - 1/4 tsp</div>
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<b>To temper:</b></div>
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Coconut oil - 2 tsp</div>
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Mustard seeds - 1/2 tsp<br />
Curry Leaves - leaves from a sprig</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7yxMu4-MmkKT6Z29tPjER48Qqom1HnbbWCSoNMpXAc9nWwydLcy1qkl35my9X9KPfkqmE0ISTIDeLrbI_AM6OzFSF_VsCvs3VO-_GarDz9K1CAjsbHYNtNejvVhD4bdb7La1gIfzA1g/s1600/Aviyal+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7yxMu4-MmkKT6Z29tPjER48Qqom1HnbbWCSoNMpXAc9nWwydLcy1qkl35my9X9KPfkqmE0ISTIDeLrbI_AM6OzFSF_VsCvs3VO-_GarDz9K1CAjsbHYNtNejvVhD4bdb7La1gIfzA1g/s640/Aviyal+2.JPG" width="502" /></a></div>
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<b>Method:</b></div>
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<b>-</b>In a vessel add the chopped carrot,potato,yam,raw banana and drumstick.</div>
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-Add about 1/2 a cup of water,a pinch of turmeric and salt as needed and mix well.</div>
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-On a medium flame let it cook until the vegetables are 3/4th cooked,they should hold their shape and not turn mushy.</div>
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-Add the ground coconut paste and mix well.Let it cook further for another 4 -5 minutes until it loses its raw flavour.</div>
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-Now remove it from the stove and add the curd and mix well.</div>
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-In a small pan heat the coconut oil and splutter the curry leaves and mustard.</div>
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-Add the tempering to the cooked Aviyal and gently mix.Done !</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpQsDuygwvZqz4RUwEEmFgUkVL6ZSbecH9rgPnhL0dzEzKmtOL1Kusbk16eqSX4oe1qwGvlhrVoVXFyqPsuZ1SQU2fc1QIKEv6P2iPw5XZCIdz_W7cvM4BzAcWMgRnRgwmrcme63oq_Q/s1600/Aviyal+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="542" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpQsDuygwvZqz4RUwEEmFgUkVL6ZSbecH9rgPnhL0dzEzKmtOL1Kusbk16eqSX4oe1qwGvlhrVoVXFyqPsuZ1SQU2fc1QIKEv6P2iPw5XZCIdz_W7cvM4BzAcWMgRnRgwmrcme63oq_Q/s640/Aviyal+3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Thanks for stopping by ! Have a nice day !</div>
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Renihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04624890762564423455noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1034555776279194214.post-73125850447632245162016-08-18T05:17:00.000-07:002016-08-26T12:31:41.138-07:00Sweet Corn Vada<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
The Olympic season each time doesn't just bring out the best sport-talent ,but also brings out the best human beings.There are always so many beautiful people who beat the odds to create history.Like I read somewhere 'People who practice so hard for years for just moments of glory'.So many awe inspiring stories of people who push themselves beyond the limits.Michael Phelps turned into an unbeatable legend,it's not just his winning this year ,but the way he fought with his personal struggles,that makes him more remarkable.Bolt ,true to his name ,literally,as always bolted :) He's always been my favourite ,but this year Dipa Karmakar stole the show.For a person from a country where sports(which is almost synonymous with cricket ) is given absolutely no importance, to have come this far is no mean feat.And to be more specific, in a country where people seem to strongly believe that the words sports and fitness have nothing do with girls, what's she's done is the absolute display of will power and strength.I really admire her parents, who I'm sure would've heard a million of times from people around them that they were making a mistake,still took that leap of faith and trusted and stood by their daughter.And today it took another woman,Sakshi Malik to fetch India its first medal.I know this sounds like a feminist:p ,but I'm kind of very happy that it was a woman who finally got the medal.For a country which still boasts of its patriarchal society and shuns the girl child,India sometimes still needs its women to find its glory.Be it Saina Nehwal,Mary Kom or Sania Mirza,Indian women really fight hard and get their place in the Hall of fame.I somehow felt that Dipa Karmakar deserved a medal,but sometimes life can be testing :)Anyway it's a great day for India and I'm waiting for the Men's 200 m run to watch Bolt,probably jog, to get that gold medal !<br />
Coming to the recipe,this is an instant vada. If you love sweet corn ,you are sure to love this.It can be done in no time and tastes amazing !<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjue4P1IshvMzWkqdlgQLsa-W3GOreNluazwQgsy8TP2iREpdTe4ItA7k5kfXkq1OfgmzbDt1zslFyXgKsb0kXjnDpyl1pmoDsQqBEzNWl_Tth6EZdq_Y_W65IsmNjxSGMD8uw2uhcBRQ/s1600/Sweet+Corn+Vada+fn.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjue4P1IshvMzWkqdlgQLsa-W3GOreNluazwQgsy8TP2iREpdTe4ItA7k5kfXkq1OfgmzbDt1zslFyXgKsb0kXjnDpyl1pmoDsQqBEzNWl_Tth6EZdq_Y_W65IsmNjxSGMD8uw2uhcBRQ/s640/Sweet+Corn+Vada+fn.JPG" width="414" /></a></div>
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<b>You'll Need:</b></div>
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Sweet Corn Kernels (boiled) - 2 cups - 250 - 300 g</div>
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Corn Flour - 4 tbsp</div>
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All Purpose flour/ Maida - 4 tbsp</div>
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Ginger (chopped finely) - 1/2 tsp</div>
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Green Chilli - 2 (finely chopped)</div>
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Onion - 1 small (finely chopped)</div>
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Mint and Coriander leaves - 1 tbsp each ( finely chopped)</div>
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salt as needed</div>
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Oil for deep frying</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwSsvKKc0N-tUVr4YeuPfDhOxYrpgtUFlyVZcE0MrdewoJK1J_JmYmivI2L1Fx4cVXw2-C_msTPHWI3U6bM4-QZSCY4yr-dNMDcLvXWOLRspsi1vWy11QeNLAwwXKkOTx689mCQ1dCag/s1600/Sweet+Corn+Vada+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwSsvKKc0N-tUVr4YeuPfDhOxYrpgtUFlyVZcE0MrdewoJK1J_JmYmivI2L1Fx4cVXw2-C_msTPHWI3U6bM4-QZSCY4yr-dNMDcLvXWOLRspsi1vWy11QeNLAwwXKkOTx689mCQ1dCag/s640/Sweet+Corn+Vada+2.JPG" width="436" /></a></div>
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<b>Method:</b></div>
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-I used Tinned corn,so just drained them,If using fresh ones.Boil the corn on the cob and with a knife scrape the corn Kernels</div>
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-Keeping 2 tablespoons of corn apart,grind the rest of the corn kernels to a coarse paste.</div>
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-Now in a bowl mix the paste and all the other ingredients (except for the oil :))and add the 2 tbsps of full corn kernels.</div>
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-Let it rest in the refrigerator for 15 - 20 minutes.</div>
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-In a deep pan heat the oil,to check it it's warm enough add a pinch of the batter,it should rise immediately to the surface.</div>
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-Keep the heat in medium and make small patties of the batter and drop them in the oil.They can be a bit sticky,applying a little oil on your hands or wetting them with water helps.</div>
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-Fry the patties in small batches ,turning them over once or twice and let them drain on paper towels.</div>
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-They taste crisp and yummy when they're had within an hour of frying.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicJmhlmOLiU4zqQkBLL-zioi1fr8EnYfBcgI37urL_2Xe2uGUjONrNDV63lB0Sa2-CeQwCBBfdJKnYuM65KeNJlm3H3XFCGKzjyWX6IXkr94AztN-DOZXuSnHquLkWaILZUzuFZ0AKHw/s1600/Sweet+Corn+Vada+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicJmhlmOLiU4zqQkBLL-zioi1fr8EnYfBcgI37urL_2Xe2uGUjONrNDV63lB0Sa2-CeQwCBBfdJKnYuM65KeNJlm3H3XFCGKzjyWX6IXkr94AztN-DOZXuSnHquLkWaILZUzuFZ0AKHw/s640/Sweet+Corn+Vada+3.JPG" width="570" /></a></div>
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<b>Note</b>:If you find the batter a bit runny,you can add an extra Tablespoon of All purpose flour or rice flour.</div>
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Thanks for stopping by ! Have a nice day !</div>
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Renihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04624890762564423455noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1034555776279194214.post-78968607827234341622016-08-11T06:37:00.001-07:002016-08-11T06:37:13.066-07:00Quick Mutton Curry<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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The summer this year's been an extension of spring.We've had just an occasional week of sun throughout this summer.And that for its part was too hot.Being accustomed to the sweltering heat of Chennai guess I shouldn't be complaining about the heat here.But the sea breeze somehow takes away the edge off the heat there,making it compartitively pleasant.But here you feel the heat till 9 or 10 in the evening.I like the way the sun behaves like a regular office-goer in Chennai,prompt from 6 -6 ,except for the rare rainy days.But here it goes into hiding throughout winter and when it does have to appear in summer,it does it reluctantly :) The rainy weather makes it difficult for me.as I'm then stuck at homes with my little ones.We are usually the weekend non vegetarians with the week having mostly veg dishes and egg.But when it's holidays, it's usually the other way around,mainly because of the ease at which non veg dishes can be prepared.This is one such curry,which needs just 15 minutes of preparation.It pairs up well with any main dish and tastes yum !</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQckFM0Np8Vlg-SWm7nzZeqR4eI_w5EiBe5CLD57_pRkbbDZR7rFeBX9FebwXoUhuz9es7-6odB8nAhEt1VOlgEhfcz4zOAOQOQfv9wB4IDIPzgj6J_ot-myoTffh0faqqStUeNAepqg/s1600/Quick+Mutton+Curry+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQckFM0Np8Vlg-SWm7nzZeqR4eI_w5EiBe5CLD57_pRkbbDZR7rFeBX9FebwXoUhuz9es7-6odB8nAhEt1VOlgEhfcz4zOAOQOQfv9wB4IDIPzgj6J_ot-myoTffh0faqqStUeNAepqg/s640/Quick+Mutton+Curry+3.JPG" width="448" /></a></div>
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<b>You'll Need:</b></div>
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Mutton - 250g</div>
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Onion - 1 large (sliced thinly)</div>
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Timato - 1 large ( chopped finely)</div>
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Oil - 2 Tb</div>
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Coriander powder - 2 tsp</div>
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Chilli Powder - 1/2 - 1 tsp</div>
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Turmeric Powder - 1/2 tsp</div>
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Cinnamon - a small stick</div>
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Cloves - 1</div>
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Cardamom - 1</div>
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Stone flower/Kal Paasi - a small piece</div>
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Star Anise - 1/2 a medium one</div>
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Salt as needed</div>
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Coconut Milk - 3 -4 Tb(optional)</div>
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Coriander leaves - 2 sprigs (finely chopped)</div>
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<b>To Grind to a fine paste:</b></div>
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Garlic - 3 -4 big cloves or 6 -8 small ones</div>
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Ginger - same quantity as Garlic</div>
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Green Chilli - 1 small<br />
Whole Pepper Corns - 1/2 tsp</div>
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Fennel Seeds - 1 tsp</div>
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Poppy Seeds - 1 tsp</div>
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Cashew Nuts - 2 - 3<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr1ZBKuaqRAP5djt270A1p0hvEwwc3HwoZQAkMasas1ctpcI-RfVbl7SjbTV6O05joQ19ubGqOTW9cpkYRcXWEWaH1YmmHaMynHvzBkbVVnpVO6Kydjm3F9U7sRK8ahcCzMOplXWXj3Q/s1600/Quick+Mutton+Curry.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr1ZBKuaqRAP5djt270A1p0hvEwwc3HwoZQAkMasas1ctpcI-RfVbl7SjbTV6O05joQ19ubGqOTW9cpkYRcXWEWaH1YmmHaMynHvzBkbVVnpVO6Kydjm3F9U7sRK8ahcCzMOplXWXj3Q/s640/Quick+Mutton+Curry.JPG" width="438" /></a></div>
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<b>Method:</b></div>
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-To a pressure cooker add the oil and when it heats,splutter the cardamom,cloves,cinnamon,star anise and stone flower.Saute for a few seconds.</div>
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-Add the thinly sliced onions with a pinch of salt and saute for 3 -5 minutes until the onions shrink and are well browned.</div>
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-Next add the mutton pieces and saute for 3- 4 minutes until they turn pale brown.</div>
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-Add the coriander,turmeric and chilli powder and mix well.</div>
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-Add the Tomatoes and mix well.Saute for a few seconds.</div>
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-Add salt as needed.And close the lid.Cook on high heat until it whistles once.</div>
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-Reduce the flame and let it simmer for 10 minutes.</div>
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-Take it off the stove and wait till all the steam is released.</div>
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-Open the pressure cooker and add the coconut milk,coriander leaves and 1/4 tsp Garam Masala powder.Check for Salt and add if needed.Let it cook on low heat for another 3 -5 minutes.<br />
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Thanks for stopping by ! Have a nice day !</div>
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Renihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04624890762564423455noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1034555776279194214.post-39504457605528339562016-08-01T06:50:00.001-07:002016-08-01T07:01:20.287-07:00Mango Kesari - Mango Semolina Pudding<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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This is a quickie post.</div>
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Yet another attempt at adding Mango to desserts.</div>
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It adds a beautiful colour and flavour to the regular Kesari.</div>
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Though the mango flavour isn't very pronounced in the dish,the mangoes give a distinctively pleasant taste and aroma.</div>
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<b>You'll Need:</b></div>
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Semolina/Rava - 2 cups</div>
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Mango - 2,mango pulp - 2 cups</div>
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Water - 6 cups</div>
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Sugar - 1 1/4 cups</div>
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Ghee - 50 ml(4 Tb) + 1 Tb</div>
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Nuts,Raisins - 2 tbsp</div>
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Cardamom powder - 1/4 tsp</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1y1sKFxR_GJhZ1IN3fZf4nLDn-DwO9DT5MnhfDvWUlKo4RPsporbJZOeRtaV0pRLxe44AD4snRpS_014_gQMUhqaYfl3bN8SjeA6YK9FWXq5SLWIMN2bXGXzmLbgH_Rj7Uh-m7cWHJg/s1600/Mango+Kesari+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1y1sKFxR_GJhZ1IN3fZf4nLDn-DwO9DT5MnhfDvWUlKo4RPsporbJZOeRtaV0pRLxe44AD4snRpS_014_gQMUhqaYfl3bN8SjeA6YK9FWXq5SLWIMN2bXGXzmLbgH_Rj7Uh-m7cWHJg/s640/Mango+Kesari+3.JPG" width="512" /></a></div>
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<b>Method:</b></div>
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<b>-</b>In a pan heat the ghee and when it heats up add the nuts and raisins and saute for a minute or two until the raisins puff.</div>
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-Add the Semolina and saute for 2 minutes until it gives out a nice aroma.</div>
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-In another vessel heat the water and when its warm add the mango puree to it and whisk well.</div>
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-Add the mango water mixture to the semolina and stir well ,make sure there are no lumps.</div>
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-Now reduce the flame and cover and cook on a low heat for 5 -6 minutes until the semolina is cooked.The semolina would have absorbed all the water and the whole mixture will be very thick.</div>
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-Now add the sugar and mix well.The mixture will loosen up again.Mix well.</div>
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-It tends to splutter so it's better to cover it and let it cook for a further 4 - 6 minutes until it thickens again.And becomes shiny and glossy.</div>
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-Now add the cardamom powder and the 1 Tb ghee and mix well.</div>
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-Let it again cook for another few minutes.Serve warm !!</div>
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<b>Note</b>: It does splutter a lot,so it's safer to stay at a distance while cooking :)</div>
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Thanks for stopping by ! Have a nice day !</div>
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Renihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04624890762564423455noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1034555776279194214.post-51672945609233917482016-07-15T07:58:00.001-07:002016-07-17T03:38:56.989-07:00Fish curry - Meen Kulambu<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Traditions are funny things aren't they,neither can you put up with them nor can you do without them.And in their own way they characterise and make a culture unique. I've never been a huge fan of them and most of the time I follow them just to avoid fruitless and draining arguments.This is something you learn as you grow older,when you're young you question things and try to rebel and as you grow older you realise that tolerating things,more bluntly said indifference, saves you a lot of much needed energy :) Well, these days I look at traditions and customs with interest.As a kid when I found them illogical,I demanded for an explanation,and depending upon the mood of the grown up,I would either be threatened that not following them would bring evil or given a lecture about how I would understand their significance once I get old.Some patient people would tell me that each custom usually had some scientific reasoning behind it.I hope I'll one day figure out the scientific reason behind hanging a lemon on a vehicle or keeping a broomstick under the bed :) I was somehow of the idea ,that being raised in India I had seen it all when it comes to traditions, but I was in for a surprise. Every country seems to have their own share of traditions.Like I mentioned in my previous post my daughter's kindergarten years are over and she had a farewell party on her last day.Surprisingly or I'd rather say miraculously we were in time,I'm sure the whole kindergarten was shocked,we are always late .As we entered, the teachers were very excited and asked me if I was having mixed emotions about the 'Rausschmiss<span style="background-color: white; color: #313234; font-family: "roboto" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"> </span>.Now Rausschmiss directly translates to 'Throwing out'.That's the way things are here, everything from their language,clothes to their cakes, are pretty straight forward and practical,you'd rarely find anything very flowery or sugar coated,I have a separate post about that coming up later :)Coming to the 'Throwing out' part,I could sense the other parents moving about with a feeling of sadness and excitement.So we had an usual farewell party after which the parents were asked to take everything and go out and wait.I had no idea what I was waiting for when the teachers pulled up a big bed and threw it near the door.And then ,they carried the kids one by one and threw them out on the bed as the parents went near the bed to hug each one.The kids were super excited ,with each one demanding to be thrown higher than the previous one.One teary eyed mom standing near me whispered in my ears how it reminded her of her own 'Throwing out', where the kids were made to jump out of a window on the ground floor onto a similar bed.Guess though I didn't understand the reasoning behind the tradition,it would always be a cherished memory for the kids.Made me wonder if that was the whole idea behind some traditions,making memories.After all aren't memories one of those things which keeps us going !!<br />
So now we have two months of holidays in our hands, and I literally have '<i>Two little monkeys jumping on the bed</i>' :)Guess I'd be posting more sporadically,with both of them at home.Coming to the recipe,over the years my cooking style and taste has changed a lot.But this is one traditional recipe where I blindly follow my mom and Grandmother.This is a traditional south Indian dish. It is so easy to prepare and gives me that feeling of home.......<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiuMwM69MFHNu6WhczwVNO5tGCBkGFPPvHrTFaVZNilv88snOI3eLrDxMves0AV7OuJAN2dbUJXBh39VoDv84CVhF-1rs94nT2_BX-nGvRWnQgDRVJ46mpW4IonMEAXMdUPT2qjcLv7Q/s1600/Fish+Curry+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiuMwM69MFHNu6WhczwVNO5tGCBkGFPPvHrTFaVZNilv88snOI3eLrDxMves0AV7OuJAN2dbUJXBh39VoDv84CVhF-1rs94nT2_BX-nGvRWnQgDRVJ46mpW4IonMEAXMdUPT2qjcLv7Q/s640/Fish+Curry+1.JPG" width="486" /></a></div>
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<b>You'll Need:</b></div>
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Fish - 200 g</div>
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<b>For the Masala Paste:</b></div>
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Small onion (shallots) - 7 -9 (peeled and chopped into two)</div>
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Tomato - 1 very big(finely chopped)</div>
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Coriander leaves - 3 -4 sprigs(finely chopped)</div>
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Curry leaves - from one sprig</div>
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Coconut - finely chopped -3 tbsp</div>
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Garlic - 5 -6 small cloves - chopped</div>
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Ginger - a tiny peice(optional)</div>
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Turmeric powder - 1/2 tsp</div>
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Fenugreek seeds - 1/4 tsp</div>
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Mustard seeds - 1/4 tsp</div>
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Fennel seeds - 1 tsp</div>
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Whole pepper corns - 1/2 tsp</div>
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Carom seeds -1/4 tsp(or lesser)</div>
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Cumin seeds - 1 tsp</div>
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Coriander powder - 1.5 tsp</div>
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Chilli powder - 1 tsp</div>
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Oil - 2 tsp</div>
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<b>For the curry:</b></div>
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Tamarind - about the size of one or two big gooseberries</div>
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(soak in a cup of warm water for 20 minutes and squeeze and drain to extract the juice)</div>
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<b>For the tempering:</b></div>
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Oil - 1 - 2 tsp</div>
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Mustard seeds - 1/4 tsp</div>
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Fennel seeds - 1/2 tsp</div>
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Curry leaves - a few</div>
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salt as needed</div>
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<b>Method:</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
-<b>For the masala: </b>Add 2 tsp of oil to a pan ,when it heats up splutter the peppercorns, mustard,fennel ,carom and cumin seeds.Add the curry leaves and garlic.Saute for a minute or two.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
-Add the small onions with a pinch of salt and saute for 2 minutes,Then add the Tomatoes along with the Turmeric,coriander and chilli powder and mix well.</div>
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-Simmer and let it cook until the mixture oozes out oil.</div>
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-Then add the coriander leaves and mix well.Finally add the coconut and saute for another two minutes.</div>
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-Remove the mixture off the stove,Let it cool and grind to a slightly coarse paste.</div>
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-Extract the juice from the Tamarind.</div>
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-Clean and chop the fish.</div>
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<b>For the Curry:</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
-In a vessel add the paste and the tamarind juice and mix well.On a medium heat let the mixture cook for 4 -5 minutes.Check for salt and add as needed.</div>
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-Then add the fish and mix carefully.</div>
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-Let it cook on a low to medium flame for 10 - 15 minutes until it is full cooked.Do not mix often as the fish might break into pieces.Let it simmer for another 2 -3 minutes.</div>
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-In a another pan heat the oil for tempering and splutter the other ingredients.</div>
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-Add the tempering to the curry and take it off the stove.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy8TX6j6F6NCujQQWEV9sBmq0Qqjxn4QfM2PMRuqQNp2NCqzTKPpLDAiSbUwxLkti-gfUKTMbT1coW7seLCsCeWiGh-MhKvbJILTpMatUop4be4zqmHg0lEm32bRgfR2OyVlaxpwpRMA/s1600/Fish+Curry+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy8TX6j6F6NCujQQWEV9sBmq0Qqjxn4QfM2PMRuqQNp2NCqzTKPpLDAiSbUwxLkti-gfUKTMbT1coW7seLCsCeWiGh-MhKvbJILTpMatUop4be4zqmHg0lEm32bRgfR2OyVlaxpwpRMA/s640/Fish+Curry+3.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
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<b>Note</b>:This curry pretty much works with any variety of fish,but the ones with bones taste better.</div>
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Thanks for stopping by ! Have a nice day !</div>
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Renihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04624890762564423455noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1034555776279194214.post-65739992375993440472016-07-07T03:43:00.002-07:002017-03-10T03:16:00.692-08:00Fish Patties - Meen Vadai<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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It has been a real hectic week with one of the kids falling sick and the other one having a sleepover at her kindergarten. I've never had a sleepover in all my life and when my little one's kindergarten said that they had a sleepover as a part of their farewell,I was a bit sceptical.But her enthusiasm was so contagious that I had to give in.It was fun to watch the almost 6 year old kids standing excitedly with their torch lights and backpacks,and the parents standing tiredly nearby with their makeshift beds.A part of me was happy when my little girl said 'Mummy leave I'm fine' and a part of me was also sad that she's suddenly all grown up and didn't say 'Mummy stay'.Having studied at the same school from kindergarten for 14 years,I find the system here a bit strange.The kids go to kindergarten for 3 years,then they move on to a Primary school for 4 years after which depending on their capabilities and accomplishments they move to different schools until they get to college.I am somehow convinced that most of the deep lasting friendships start in school and when the kids have to keep moving from one school to another, it would be difficult to find and hold on to a friendship.Not to mention the language and cultural barriers that they face with the kids coming from different countries.But on the other hand I guess it would also make them more adaptable and tougher.It's difficult being a parent, a part of you wants them to be tough and independent,and there's this other part which wishes that they'll always need you.Guess it's a long journey,the only way to keep going is to take one step at a time !</div>
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Coming to the recipe,this is an all time favourite at home .This is one starter that I prepare when I have guests coming over as it's easy to make and definitely a hit !</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAr_CQ7lluzaowiJGIVW2mN3RqoRX2hxGs7nf4XUF01fhPxtLk_bz-ukjyu5hIJeJha3PrkPtNFORIqjHGlYopLoVado9O7-Rtw5Jv15PjjO7YTDl9OnqiXfhq3HiOjCCL7C-llScq0g/s1600/Fish+Patties+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAr_CQ7lluzaowiJGIVW2mN3RqoRX2hxGs7nf4XUF01fhPxtLk_bz-ukjyu5hIJeJha3PrkPtNFORIqjHGlYopLoVado9O7-Rtw5Jv15PjjO7YTDl9OnqiXfhq3HiOjCCL7C-llScq0g/s1600/Fish+Patties+5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Makes 12 - 14</b></div>
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<b>You'll Need:</b></div>
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Tuna or any bone less fish - 200 g (boiled and mashed)</div>
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Potatoes - 3 big (boiled,peeled,mashed)</div>
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Onion - 1/2 a medium one (finely chopped)</div>
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Ginger (grated) - 1/2 tsp(heaped)</div>
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Garlic (grated) - 1/2 tsp(heaped)</div>
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Green Chillies(finely chopped) - 1/2 tsp</div>
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Coriander leaves(finely chopped) - 1 tbsp</div>
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Curry leaves(finely chopped) - 1 tbsp</div>
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Garam Masala Powder - 1/2 tsp</div>
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Red Chilli powder - 1/4 tsp</div>
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Pepper Powder - 1/2 tsp</div>
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Turmeric powder - 1/2 tsp</div>
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Salt as needed</div>
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Oil as needed</div>
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<b>Method:</b><br />
-Boil,peel and mash the potatoes.<br />
-If using fresh fish:Clean,boil and mash the fish as well.Boil the fish with a little water and then simmer until all the water evaporates.If using Tinned fish u can directly drain the oil or water in it and use it.<br />
-In a pan heat the oil and when it heats up splutter the ginger,garlic and green chillies.When they are slightly browned,add the onions and saute until they turn soft.<br />
-Now add the powders,curry leaves and coriander leaves along with salt and mix well.Saute for another 2 - 3 minutes.Take it off the stove.<br />
-Add the finely grated potatoes and mix well.Then add the fish and mix well.Check for salt ,adding more as needed.<br />
-Shape the mixture into small round patties.<br />
-Heat a little oil in a fat pan and shallow fry the patties turning them carefully after 4 minutes on each side.<br />
-You can also deep fry them in oil or just smear some oil on them and bake in a preheated oven at 200 °C for 15 minutes,turning them over once after 8 - 10 minutes.<br />
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<b> Note:</b><br />
If you wish to make cutlets,dip the patties in egg(one egg well beaten with a fork) and roll them on bread crumbs and fry them.<br />
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Thanks for stopping by ! Have a nice day !</div>
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Renihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04624890762564423455noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1034555776279194214.post-88502264074583620862016-06-21T08:22:00.001-07:002016-06-21T08:32:30.407-07:00Potato Pudding <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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It's football season again with the Euro Cup in full swing.The shops are again loaded with T shirts and small horns and everything else that goes with the season.I sort of miss the South American Teams,I even asked my hubby the other day when Argentina was playing when he reminded me that it was the Euro cup :)I still remember my initial days in Germany when I was surprised one day when everybody seemed to be blaring their car horns in the middle of the night.It was like a car horn chorus and went on for quite sometime. It was only later that I got to know that it was kind of a ritual and it was their way of celebrating their country's victory.Sort of reminded me of the stories from ancient days where they blew their horns once a battle was won.You hardly see anybody honk their car horns impatiently at you here,in traffic or on the road.Everybody follows the rules even when they know that nobody's watching and the cars seem to move like they are in a procession.It's not just the driving,people seemed to practice discipline and following rules like a regular thing here.</div>
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I found it impressive when compared to the chaos back in India. But when I tell friends here about how we sometimes honk when a cow decides to cross a road at its own pace during peak hours,or other stories of day to day chaos they find it interesting .They tell me that they would love to visit India as it's so full of life and colourful,and they find their life more mechanical and boring.</div>
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Guess grass is always greener on the other side :)</div>
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Coming to the recipe ,I watched this recipe on a TV show some time back.It's a warm dessert and takes no time to prepare.Tastes real yummy and no one would guess that it has potatoes in it.The dish is originally from Himachal Pradesh and since it din't have a name I decided to christen it as 'Potato Pudding ' :)</div>
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<b>You'll Need:</b><br />
<b>Serves 6 - 8</b></div>
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Ghee - 2 Tb</div>
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Potatoes - 2 (small,peeled and grated)</div>
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Digestive biscuits - 5 (Crushed)</div>
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Cornflakes - 4 Tb(crushed)</div>
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Dry fruits and nuts - Dates,Dried Figs or Apricots,Raisins,Almonds,Cashew nuts- 1/4 - 1/2 cup</div>
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Desiccated Coconut - 5 Tb</div>
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Sugar - 3 - 5 Tb(adjust according to taste)</div>
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Milk - 400 ml (boiled)(or more if needed)</div>
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<b> Method :</b><br />
-Crush the cornflakes and biscuits by pulsing them in a blender for a few seconds,Use any Tea Biscuit or Digestive biscuits ,I used Marie Biscuits.<br />
-In a hollow pan,heat the ghee,once it heats up add the potato and saute for a 5 -7 minutes on a low flame.<br />
-Next add the biscuits and corn flakes and mix well.<br />
-Add the coconut and dry fruits and mix well.<br />
-Add the milk and mix well.Add the sugar and mix well.Check and add more sugar if needed.Simmer for a few minutes.<br />
-Serve hot !</div>
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<b>Note</b>:The dish tends to thicken as it cools,so add a little hot milk just before serving.</div>
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Thanks for stopping by ! Have a nice day !</div>
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Renihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04624890762564423455noreply@blogger.com1