Kambu Koozh - Pearl Millet Porridge with Shallots & Curd

Kambu Koozh (கம்பு கூழ் / கம்பன் கூழ்) –  Tamil Nadu’s Traditional Summer Porridge with Pearl Millets! 

    When the sun roasts the earth and our skin starts to sizzle, the body doesn’t crave spice — it longs for something cool, earthy, and soothing. And that’s when Kambu Koozh comes into the picture like an age-old friend with a pot of wisdom.

Iftar & Eid Menu: Breaking Fast with Dates and Tea

"Feasting on Faith: An Iftar & Eid al-Fitr Culinary Journey from Tamil Muslim Cuisine"

Tamil Muslim Cuisine: A Legacy of Trade, Culture & Flavours

    Tamil Muslims, also known as Tamil Nadu Muslims or Tamil-speaking Muslims, have a deep-rooted culinary heritage shaped by centuries of trade, migration, and cultural fusion. Their cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of South Indian traditions interwoven with Persian, Arab, and Mughlai influences—resulting in an exquisite blend of aromatic spices, slow-cooked meats, and indulgent sweets that define Tamil Muslim feasts.

Exotic Herbs of Southeast Asia's Cuisine

The Exotic Pantry: Unveiling the Unique Herbs of Southeast Asian Cuisine

    Welcome to a culinary journey where we unlock the secrets of the exotic pantry that defines Malaysian and Southeast Asian cooking. From the vibrant markets of Malaysia to the bustling streets of Thailand & Indonesia, a treasure trove of unique herbs, spices, and ingredients awaits, ready to transform your cooking into an authentic feast for the senses. In this post, we'll explore these culinary jewels, their uses, and how they contribute to the rich, complex flavours characteristic of this region's dishes. 

      Kulcha is a popular Indian flat bread specifically from North India, It's a typical Punjabi recipe. The whole credit for this Indian bread goes to the city of Amritsar, where Amritsari Chole Bature and Naans are famous for.   It is famous in Pakistan and Kashmir too. Also, it is the most sought Indian bread next to Naan. 

     As such, Aloo Kulcha takes a special place in Indian Breads, as these popular Punjabi flatbreads are stuffed with spicy Potato Mix. These Aloo Masala is cooked in a traditional Punjabi style with Anardaana Powder, Carom Seeds, Amchur Powder, Coriander Seeds, Red Chilli Powder etc.,

AMRITSARI ALOO KULCHA

• Punjabi Chole/Amritsari Chole
• Onion Tamarind (Pyaaz Imli Ki Chutney)
• Sliced Onions with a wedge of Lime.

Can also serve it with any other Vegetarian or Non-Vegetarian Curry of your choice.

For traditional KULCHA RECIPE, Click here...

Cuisine : North Indian (Punjabi & Kashmiri); Pakistan
Course : Main Course
Difficulty : Medium
Serves : 4
Yields : 12 Kulchas
Author : SM

Preparation Time : 15–20 Minutes
Leavening Time : 3–4 Hours
Cooking Time : 20 - 30 Minutes

For more INDIAN BREAD RECIPES, Click here...

 

HOW TO COOK AMRITSARI ALOO KULCHA

AMRITSARI ALOO KULCHA

INGREDIENTS:

For Kulcha:

All Purpose Flour/Maida  -  3 Cups
Milk/ Water -  1 Cup
Curd  -  2 Tablespoons
Baking Powder  -  1 Teaspoon
Cooking Soda / Sodium-bi-carbonate  -  1/2 Teaspoon
Sugar  -  3 Teaspoons
Salt -  To Taste
Oil  -  3 - 4 Tablespoons

For the Stuffing:

Potatoes - 3-4 No's.
Onion - 1 No.
Green Chillies - 1-2 No's.
Carom Seeds - 1 Teaspoon
Red Chilli Powder - 1/2 Teaspoon
Crushed Coriander Seeds - 1 Teaspoon 
Roasted Cumin Powder - 1/2 Teaspoon
Garam Masala - 1/2 Teaspoon
Dry Mango Powder(Amchur) - 2 Teaspoons
Anardhaana Powder - 1 Teaspoon
Coriander Leaves/Spring Onions - Few.
Kasuri Methi - a Few teaspoons 
Black Salt - 1 Teaspoon
Salt - To Taste

 

For Garnishing:

Kalonji - 2–3 Teaspoons (Optional)
Butter - 3 Teaspoons
Coriander leaves /Kasoori Methi -  a Few

Method:

To Knead the Kulcha Dough:

• Sieve All Purpose flour along with salt, Baking Powder and Cooking Soda once.
• Add Sugar to the flour and mix well.
• Make a well in the centre and pour the curd into it.
• Knead it into a pliable dough using enough milk.
• Finally, add oil and knead again for about 7–8 minutes.
• Cover it with a wet cloth and leave it aside for 3–4 hours.
• Before rolling them, knead it again.
• Divide the dough into 10-12 medium-sized balls and keep it aside.
  

For the Stuffing:

• Boil the Potatoes, peel and mash them.
• Add all the ingredients mentioned under "For the Stuffing" and mix well.
• Sprinkle Amchur Powder, Kasuri Methi and finely chopped Coriander Leaves/Spring Onions and mix well.
• Finally, add finely chopped Onions and Green Chillies.
• Divide the Potato Stuffing into 10-12 medium-sized balls and keep them aside.

AMRITSARI ALOO KULCHA

For Aloo Kulcha:

• Roll the dough balls into thin circles.
• Place a little Potato Stuffing at the centre.
• Bring the sides of the dough together and seal them tightly with your fingers, shaping them into a ball.
• Dust some flour and roll the dough with Potato Stuffing into a Circle.
• Then cook Aloo Kulcha in a suitable way.
  

Cooking them on a Griddle: 

* On Direct Flame:

• Heat the griddle.
• Roll Aloo Kulchas into a round or an oval shape.
• Smear oil/butter over one side of the Aloo Kulcha and roll it once again. 
• Brush a little bit of water over one side of the Aloo Kulcha and press them to the griddle.
• Invert the griddle and cook one side of the Aloo Kulcha over a direct flame to give it a tandoor like texture and flavour. 
• Flip it and then brush water over the other side of Aloo Kulcha and spread the garnish over it.
• Then cook the other side of the Aloo Kulcha.
• Follow the suit for the rest of the Kulchas.
  

* Over a Griddle: 

• Heat the griddle.
• Roll Aloo Kulchas into a round or an oval shape.
• Smear oil/butter over one side of the Aloo Kulcha and roll it once again. 
• Brush a little bit of water over one side of the Aloo Kulcha and sprinkle the garnishes over it.
• Placed the rolled Aloo Kulcha over the griddle.  Let the flame be at the high.
• Wait until the bubbles start to form over the Kulchas.
• Now lower the flame, flip and cook the other side of Kulcha. (the side with garnish) for a few minutes. 
• Follow the suit for the rest of the Kulchas. 
  

Baking them in an Oven:

• Preheat the oven to 180 Degree Celsius.
• Place the rolled Aloo Kulchas on the baking tray. 
• Bake them in the preheated oven for about 4–5 minutes. 
• Flip them and bake them again for about 3–5 minutes. 
• Remove them from oven and then brush butter over it.

NOTES:

• Sifting the dry ingredients once makes the flour lighter and combines all ingredients evenly.
• This also makes a soft, pliable dough.
• Can use water or milk to knead the dough.
• Mash the potatoes without any lumps.
• If the Potato stuffing is prepared without lumps and large pieces, the Kulchas will not break while rolling.
• Can Substitute Amchur (Dry Mango Powder) with Lemon Juice.
• Chop Onions and Green Chillies as finely as possible.
• Can avoid adding Green Chillies too.
• Using the ingredients mentioned under 'For Garnishing' is totally optional.
• Iron griddles work best to make this Kulchas. 
• Smear some fresh butter over hot Aloo Kulchas before serving. 

ROSE LASSI

     Yet another refreshing drink, prepared with Rose Syrup, Yogurt/Curd and Milk.  With the richness of traditional Lassi comes along the redolent fragrance of Roses.  Rose Lassi is a delicious combination of a Milk Shake and a Smoothie with an authentic Indian touch.  Some recipes call for adding a pinch of Cardamom or Saffron to enhance the flavour of the drink. 

     Though believed to have originated from Punjab, Lassi can be seen in Gujarat, Rajasthan and even in parts of Pakistan.  A popular drink throughout the Northern States of India, are whipped up into many variations to bring a special note of the same drink throughout India. Lassi comes into limelight along with the arrival of sweltering summer.  Roadside shops and eateries cater this creamy drink during summer.  A sip of the Sweet Punjabi Lassi, topped with a dollop of Malai(fresh cream), is an utter treat and utmost delicacy.    

ROSE LASSI

     It is an astounding fact that Yogurt/Curd is an integral part of Indian Tradition and an unavoidable part of Indian Cuisine. Yogurt/Curd - Dahi/Dai as commonly called in North Indian languages and as Thayir/Perugu/Mosaru in the South Indian States.  Once an agricultural bound Nation, cattle rearing were a part and parcel of their life. Availability and use of Milk and milk products were a part of their daily life. So it's not a wonder that we all like Milk, Dahi/Curd (Yogurt -in our very own form).  All the more, we have a special place for it in our Pantry. And it is a daily routine to make fresh curd on a daily basis at home. We also knew wonderful techniques to convert it into tasty Desserts like Shrikhand, Mishti Doi & Bhapa Doi, healthy Drinks like Chaas, Sambharam and Lassi.  We love to accompany Raithas/Salads with Rice and Roti or make curries out of Yogurt/Curd.

    Lassi may taste like a treat, but it’s one that comes with health benefits! The yogurt in the lassi is full of probiotics that promote gut health, help digestion, and boost the immune system. It also provides protein and Vitamin-D, along with the beneficial properties of any additional fruits, herbs, or spices. Lassi is so refreshing.  

ROSE LASSI

     Rose Lassi is one best drink if you love the sensuous aroma of Rose. Serve it as a refreshing drink to quench your thirst during sweltering Summer days or as a Dessert to wash out the spicy dishes.  Lassi happily falls under the category of a dessert masquerading as a drink.
     Lassi - A popular drink throughout the Northern States of India, are whipped up into many variations to bring a special note of the same drink throughout India. Next to Mango Lassi, Rose Lassi is yet another variation which tops the popularity. A sip of the Sweet and Flavour filled Rose Lassi, is an utter treat and a sensuous delicacy.


For more JUICES, SMOOTHIES & DRINKS, Click here...

Cuisine - North Indian
Recipe Type - Drink
Difficulty - Easy
Serves - 1 Tall Glass
Author - SM  

Preparation Time - 10 - 15 Minutes

For HOMEMADE ROSE SYRUP, Click here...

 

HOW TO MAKE ROSE LASSI

ROSE LASSI

 

INGREDIENTS:

For Rose Lassi:

Rose Syrup - 2 Tablespoons
Thick Yogurt/Curd - 1 Cup
Milk - 1/2 Cup
Ice Cubes - 1/4 Cup
Salt - a Pinch (Optional)

 

Optional Ingredients:

Fresh Cream - 2 Tablespoons
Cardamom Powder - 1/4 Teaspoon
Kewra Water/Essence - a few drops
Dried Rose Petals - for garnishing

 

ROSE LASSI

METHOD:

• Crush the Ice Cubes in a blender.
• Add Rose Syrup, Yogurt/Curd, Milk & Fresh Cream to the crushed Ice cubes and whip it up in a blender for a few minutes.
• Blend until all the ingredients are well combined.
• Pour Rose Lassi into a tall glass.
• Serve Rose Lassi Chilled, garnished with a few dried Rose Petals.
  

 

For a detailed Recipe on HOMEMADE CURD/YOGURT, Click here...

 

ROSE LASSI

NOTES:

• The Yogurt/Curd should not the sour.
• Can substitute Water for Milk.
• Adjust the sweetness to suit your taste preference.
• Rose Syrup I used has added sugar in it.  So I did not add Sugar in this Recipe.
  
• For thicker Lassi, add fresh cream, but it is totally optional.
• Can add a few drops of  Kewra Essence/Water, if you like the flavour in Rose Lassi. 
• Adding Cardamom Powder, Saffron etc., are purely optional.

Bombay Mixture Recipe | Crispy Homemade Snack with Tea

"Bombay Mixture: A Taste of Nostalgia from Coimbatore"

    Craving a taste of home? For me, Bombay Mixture has always been more than just a snack—it’s a nostalgic reminder of Coimbatore's famous Nellai Periya Lala Sweet Shop. Growing up, we simply called it the "Mixture with Black Dhal," often purchased alongside Oma Podi, another classic favourite.

Cheru Payar Curry served with Puttu, Pappadam, and Pazham

Cheru Payar Curry | Kerala Green Gram Curry for Puttu

If you're looking for a comforting, nourishing, and soul-satisfying dish that pairs beautifully with Puttu, Cheru Payar Curry (Kerala Green Gram Curry) is your answer. Lightly spiced, rich in coconut flavour, and packed with protein, this traditional curry brings together health, taste, and culture in one humble bowl.

PANEER PARATHA

    Being a South Indian, Rice is predominant in my Kitchen, but when I was just pondering through my cooking habits, I find that I have been balancing equally with both Roti and Rice.  At least 2-3 days in a week, I cook Chapati or Paratha for Lunch & Dinner.  Though Chapati takes over my menu very frequently, Parathas pop-up into my Menu as frequently as it is.  The reason is our love for Stuffed Parathas.  My daughter loves Stuffed Parathas and her most favourite is this Paneer Paratha.

    I had taken the picture a few days back, but couldn't find time to write the recipe for Paneer Paratha. Two weeks back I fell sick due to the side effects of some medicines I was prescribed with and to top up the scenario I got infected with Chicken Pox.  I had a tough time tackling both the issues.  Meanwhile, my daughter took over the kitchen and was cooking in a spree, treating me like a mother. Catering juices, tender coconut, porridge etc., & etc., on time with all great dedication and care. Alongside she was cooking all goodies like Parathas, Dhals, Kola Urundai, Appam, Stew, Chicken Curries and what not. She even went a step ahead and cooked Kerala Red Rice and my husband was all amazed by the way she catered food on time with all good precision and perfection.  I was happy that for a first timer she was doing a great job, and finally she was using the recipes from my Blog(I am at all glee).

    One day she came up asking me whether I have posted the recipe for Paneer Paratha & I said not yet.  She was planning to make Paneer Paratha from scratch.  She made Paneer and for dinner she had cooked Paneer Paratha.  Though I couldn't eat it, just for the sake, I tasted a bit and the aroma was so good that it was wafting around.  So, as soon as I am on the recovery process, I planned to write the recipe for Paneer Paratha here.   So, now I know, the sole intention of starting this blog is accomplished in my terms.  I started it to keep up a journal of all my recipes in a blog so that my kids or anybody interested can use the recipes when in need.

PANEER PARATHA

      Stuffed Indian Bread, colloquially named Parathas are Rotis made with immediately available ingredients in an Indian Kitchen. North Indian Cuisine is filled with variable recipes, with a variety of stuffed Parathas. These parathas are made with Whole wheat flour(Gehun ka Aatta).  We can get wild with the choice of stuffings, Aloo Paratha with Potatoes Stuffed in it, or Methi (Fenugreek Leaves) Paratha/Thepla, Mint Paratha, Onion/Spring Onion Paratha, Gobi(Cauliflower) Paratha, Mooli(Radish) Paratha, Dhal Paratha, Paneer Paratha, Green Peas Paratha etc., & etc.,

      Paneer Paratha is one of the most famous Indian Bread stuffed with Paneer.  This is a popular dish originating from Punjab, but can commonly be termed as a North Indian Dish.  Paneer Paratha can be served at any time of the day, it suits well for a breakfast, lunch and dinner.  Serve hot Paneer Parathas with a blob of Butter along with a cup of Curd(Yogurt), Pickle or Raitha.

For more Recipes on INDIAN BREADS, Click here...


Cuisine : North Indian ( Punjabi)
Course : Main Course
Difficulty : Medium
Spice Level - Low
Serves : 4
Yields : 12 - 15 Parathas
Author : SM

Preparation Time : 25-30 Minutes
Leavening Time : 5-8 Minutes
Cooking Time : 15-20 Minutes

For more PARATHA RECIPES, Click here...

HOW TO MAKE PANEER PARATHA - INDIAN COTTAGE CHEESE STUFFED PARATHA

PANEER PARATHA

INGREDIENTS:

For The Dough:

Whole Wheat Flour - 2 Cups
Salt - To Taste
Sugar - 1 Teaspoon (Optional)
Ghee/Oil - 2 Tablespoons
Water - as Required
  

For the Stuffing:

Paneer - 1/2 Cup
Onion - 1 No.
Green Chillies - 1-2 Nos.
Red Chilli Powder - 1/2 Teaspoon
Garam Masala - 1/2 Teaspoon
Dry Mango Powder(Amchur) - 2 Teaspoons
Coriander Leaves/Spring Onions - Few.
Salt - To Taste
Oil/Ghee - 2 Teaspoons

 

For a detailed Recipe on HOW TO MAKE PANEER, Click here...

To Cook:

Ghee/Oil - 4-5 Tablespoons (To Drizzle)

METHOD:

For the Dough:

• Mix all the ingredients mentioned under 'For the dough', adding a little water, and knead it into a pliable dough.
• Finally, add oil /melted Ghee and knead it again for about 7-8 minutes.
• Cover and leave it aside for 5-8 minutes.
• Before rolling them, knead it again.
• Divide the dough into 12-15  medium-sized balls and keep it aside.

For the Stuffing:

• I have used fresh homemade Paneer in this recipe.
  
• Grate the Paneer
  
• Mix the grated paneer with finely chopped Onions, green chillies, coriander leaves and other spice powders me mentioned under "For stuffing".
• Mix all the ingredients well until the spice powders are well combined with the Paneer.
  
• Divide the Paneer Stuffing into 12-15 medium-sized balls and keep them aside.

PANEER PARATHA

For Paneer Paratha:

• Roll the dough balls into thin circles.
• Place a little Paneer Stuffing at the centre.
• Bring the sides of the dough together and seal them tightly with your fingers, shaping them into a ball.
• Dust some flour and roll the dough with Paneer Stuffing into a Circle.
• Alternatively, can roll out two chapatis from the dough and then spread the stuffing in the middle.
• Then gently press the edges and roll it out.
  
• Heat a griddle(Tawa) and cook each Paneer Paratha on a medium flame.
• Drizzle 1/4 Teaspoon of Oil/Ghee over each Paratha and cook them until they turn into golden brown colour on both the sides.
• Follow the suit for the rest of the dough balls.
• Serve hot Paneer Parathas with a bowl of Curd(yogurt), Raitha or Pickle.

NOTES:

• Add very little water as required while kneading the dough.
• Adding Ghee/Oil while kneading the dough yields soft Parathas.
• Can Substitute Amchur(Dry Mango Powder) with Lemon Juice.
• Chop Onions and Green Chillies as finely as possible, but both the ingredients are optional.
• Grate the Paneer for the stuffing. Crumbling it with your hands may yield you with bigger pieces of paneer in the stuffing, which may break/tear the Parathas when you roll it out.
  
• I have used fresh homemade Paneer in this recipe, you can use store bought ones too.
  
• Cook Paneer Paratha over a hot griddle.  If cooked at low temperature, Parathas tend to become hard.
• Can avoid adding Ghee/Oil while roasting the Paneer Parathas. But it gives a wonderful aroma to the Parathas
  
• Can also smear a blob of butter over hot Paneer Parathas before serving.
  

 

METHI CHICKEN

    Methi Chicken is a North Indian style Chicken Curry cooked with loads of Fresh Fenugreek Leaves. Fenugreek Leaves are called Methi in hindi and hence the name of the dish.  Methi Chicken is a tasty & rich Chicken Curry with a nice flavour of fresh fenugreek leaves coming through in every bite.  Methi Chicken Curry has hidden within itself multiple layers of flavour. This is a rich, creamy textured and aromatic Chicken Curry.  Methi Chicken is a curry where Pan-seared Chicken pieces are slow cooked in a rich yogurt based spicy gravy. Methi Murg is loaded with flavours from the spices used and the red hue of the curry from Kashmiri Chilli Powder, which treats you with a perfect feast to eyes, nostrils and taste buds.
    

    Methi Leaves are the selling point of this Curry, they impart a smell unique to itself.  Traditionally, fresh Methi/Fenugreek Leaves are used while cooking this recipe.  If you cannot get hold of fresh Methi Leaves use a handful of dried ones,  Though, the fresh ones are surely going to elevate the aroma of Methi Chicken.  I do not get fresh Methi Leaves, where I live.  Have to mention here, that my trial growing Fenugreek Leaves turn out to be futile every time I try to sprout it up from Fenugreek Seeds.  But have given a try once again with all meticulous nuances of trying to sprout & grow Fenugreek Leaves.  As of today, my measures seems to be worthwhile.  Has sprouted up well into microgreens.  Yet to see whether they are going to yield me with wonderful patches of Fenugreek Leaves.  Waiting to make incredible recipes with fresh fenugreek leaves. 

    Methi Chicken is an easy recipe which can be prepared quickly and needs less ingredients. The true flavour of  Methi Murg comes from the intense flavours of the spices added in the curry and above all the strong aroma of Kasuri Methi/Fenugreek Leaves. Curd/Yogurt Base gives this curry a silky texture. Methi Chicken Curry can be served as a side dish for Roti, Naan, Paratha, Chapati, Kulcha, Batura or with steamed Basmati Rice. Goes well with Rice Dishes, Biriyanis & Pulaos too.

Cuisine - North Indian
Course - Side Dish
Difficulty - Medium
Serves - 4-6
Author - SM

Preparation Time - 25 -30 Minutes
Cooking Time - 30- 45 Minutes

For RECIPES WITH FENUGREEK LEAVES/KASURI METHI, Click here...  

HOW TO COOK METHI CHICKEN- CHICKEN CURRY WITH FENUGREEK LEAVES

METHI CHICKEN

INGREDIENTS:

For Methi Chicken:

Chicken - 500 Grams
Onion - 1 No.
Spring Onions - few Stalks
Green Chillies - 4-5 No's.
Garlic - 3-4 Cloves
Ginger - 1" Piece
Fresh Fenugreek Leaves - 2 Cups
Oil/Butter - 2-3 Tablespoons
Cumin Seeds - 1/2 Teaspoon
Fennel Seeds - 1/2 Teaspoon
Asafoetida - a Pinch

For Yogurt/Curd Base:

Curd/Yogurt - 3 Cups
Turmeric Powder - 1 Teaspoon
Red Chilli Powder - 1 Teaspoon
Kashmiri Chilli Powder - 11/2 Teaspoon
Coriander Seed Powder - 2 Teaspoons
Garam Masala - 1 Teaspoon
Sugar - 1 Tablespoon
Salt - To Taste

For Garnishing:

Kasuri Methi(Dried Fenugreek Leaves) - 1-2 Teaspoons
Spring Onions - a Few
Coriander Leaves - a handful

METHI CHICKEN

METHOD:

For Methi Chicken:

• Clean & wash Chicken Pieces and allow it to drain.
• Clean, wash and separate the leaves from the Fenugreek Leaf stalks.  Can use tiny stalks of fenugreek leaves too.
  
• Whisk Curd/Yogurt along with Turmeric Powder, Red Chilli Powder, Coriander Powder, Garam Masala and Salt.
• Whisk until well combined and leave it aside.
• Heat Oil/Butter in a Deep Pan, splutter Cumin & Fennel Seeds on a low flame.
• Add Asafoetida powder and give a quick stir.
• Immediately add the Chicken Pieces to the above and sear the Chicken pieces until the colour changes.
• Sear the Chicken Pieces on a medium flame.
• Add finely chopped Onions, Spring Onions, Green Chillies, Garlic and Ginger to the seared Chicken Pieces.
• Saute the ingredients on a low flame until Onions turn translucent.
• Pour the Yogurt/Curd Base and mix well.
• Cook this on a low flame, stirring occasionally, until the chicken pieces are well cooked, and the raw flavour goes from the Spice -Yogurt mix.
• Sprinkle water if needed.
• Now add the Fenugreek Leaves and give a quick stir.
• Cover and cook for a few minutes, or until the greens wilt and are cooked through.
  
• Cook Methi Murg until oil separates from the Curry, and it reaches the desired consistency.
• Sprinkle Sugar and give a quick stir.
  
• Garnish Methi Chicken with a few teaspoons of finely chopped Kasuri Methi(Dried Fenugreek Leaves) & Coriander Leaves.
• Serve Methi Chicken hot with Roti, Naan, Paratha, Chapati, Kulcha, Batura or with steamed Basmati Rice.
• Goes well with Rice Dishes, Biriyanis & Pulaos too.
  

 

METHI CHICKEN

NOTES:

• Can use any type of vegetable oil for the recipe. Mustard Oil gives an authentic flavour to the dish.
• Slow cooking enhances the flavour of the dish.
• Adding Kashmiri Chilli powder gives a vibrant colour with a red hue in the gravy.
• Kashmiri Chilli Powders are less spicy but have a bright red colour.
• If Kashmiri Chilli Powder is not available, use normal Dry Chilli Powder, but adjust the amount to suit your spice level.
• Can use Red food colouring to do the job, if preferred - which I would suggest not to... 
• The true flavour of Methi Murg comes from the intense flavours of Cumin, Fennel, Asafoetida & needless to say  - fresh fenugreek leaves.
• If you cannot get fresh fenugreek leaves, add about 2-3 tablespoons of dried fenugreek leaves(Kasuri Methi).  
• Adding Sugar is purely optional, but helps to balance the overall taste notes in this Curry.

PANEER BHURJI

       Paneer Bhurji is one latest favourite at home.  I have never made this before, though I make quite a number of various other recipes with Paneer.  Paneer is one must-have ingredient in my pantry, and it is always homemade Paneer.  The reason behind homemade Paneer is that I do not get it locally.  And as a norm at home deprivation leads to innovation and that was how I started making Paneer at home.  

    A few years back I had to stay for an Ayurvedic treatment in Kerala for my eye condition.  There they had a canteen which served good food.  I was allowed to eat only if I am hungry and Kanji was the only dish allowed to eat.  My daughter, who accompanied me, had a tough time managing with the food there. All three meals a day... Indian Food... Vegetarian... mostly bland.  You have to keep in mind that most of the dishes are cooked for the patients who are staying there for treatment. She went crazy enough, one choosy person, who has quite a lot of specifications & preferences, when it comes to eating and all more in cooking too. Mostly she ended up ordering Rotis or Naans, though as much as a compromise.     One day they had this Paneer Bhurji was in their menu, and she was overwhelmed to see it, as Paneer is her favourite.  Went along and ordered it.  But to her dismay the recipe turned out to be bland and tasteless.  I cannot comment how it was, as I didn't taste it.

    So as usual when we came back I wanted to try this Paneer Bhurji and left alone kept in my to-do list for a long time. And all of a sudden this particular recipe popped up when my daughter asked me for Paneer Bhurji.  She had even sent me a link of a recipe, which I am now searching for in vain.  But since then I have made this Paneer Bhurji quite a number of times, and it has become a family favourite.  I add Cashew paste to Paneer Bhurji which makes it rich and gives a wonderful flavour.  And usually I make Paneer Bhurji in a slight gravy version, add some milk.  Skip adding Cashew paste and milk if you want a drier version of Paneer Bhurji.  Rest of the recipe and ingredients remain the same.

      Paneer Bhurji is an extremely popular recipe prepared with crumbled Paneer.  It's one simple and quick-fix recipes which is more or less similar to Egg Bhurji, but with an utter extravagance. What makes Paneer Bhurji special is the addition of spices, cashew paste and milk.  And you can make it dry or into a slight gravy version.  We like the gravy version as it suits best to be combined up with Chapatis, Roti, Batura, Paratha, Kulcha or Naan.  Or make Pav Bhaji recipe a bit extravagant by serving this Paneer Bhurji instead of the conventional Vegetable Bhaji.

     Paneer Bhurji could be cooked up within minutes.  Fresh homemade Paneer compliments the recipe with a remarkable texture and taste.  Finish off it by garnishing it with freshly crushed Kasuri Methi which adds a wonderful aroma to this Paneer Bhurji.

For a detailed recipe on HOW TO MAKE PANEER, Click here...

Cuisine - North Indian
Course - Side Dish
Spice Level  - Medium - High
Difficulty - Medium
Serves - 3- 4
Author - SM

Preparation Time - 15-20 Minutes
Soaking Time - 20 - 30 Minutes.
Cooking Time - 20 - 30 Minutes

For more recipes with PANEER, Click here...

HOW TO MAKE PANEER BHURJI

PANEER BHURJI

INGREDIENTS:

For Paneer Bhurji Gravy:

Paneer - 2 Cups
Oil/Butter - 2 Tablespoons
Cumin Seeds - 1/4 Teaspoon 
Garlic - 6-8 Cloves
Onion - 2 large
Green Chillies - 3-4
Ginger - 1" Piece
Turmeric Powder - 1/4 Teaspoon
Red Chilli Powder - 1 Teaspoon
Coriander Powder - 1 Teaspoon
Cumin Powder -1/4 Teaspoon
Garam Masala/Kitchen King Masala - 1 Teaspoon 
Kasuri Methi(Dried Fenugreek Leaves) - 2 Teaspoons
Tomato - 2 Nos.
Milk - 1/4 Cup
Water - 1/2 Cup
Salt - To Taste
Sugar - a Pinch

 

For Cashew Paste(Optional):

Cashew nuts - 10-12 Nos.
Water - 1/4 Cup

 

For Garnishing:

Coriander Leaves - a few 
Kasuri Methi(Dried Fenugreek Leaves) - 1 Teaspoon

 

For a detailed recipe on HOW TO MAKE KASURI METHI, Click here... 

 

METHOD:

• Soak Cashew nuts in boiling hot water for about 20-30 minutes and grind this into a fine paste and keep it aside.
• Grate or crumble the Paneer and keep it aside.
• Heat Oil/Butter in a pan, splutter Cumin Seeds. Let the flame be at low.
• Immediately add, finely chopped garlic and sauté it for a while.
• Next, add finely chopped Onions, Green Chillies & Ginger & sauté it until onions turn translucent.
• Add, turmeric powder, red chilli powder, coriander powder, cumin powder & garam masala.
• Fry the spice powders for a while on a very low flame until the raw flavour goes.  Care should be taken not to burn the ingredients.
• Crush the Kasuri Methi, add  to the above and give a quick stir.
• Now, add finely chopped Tomatoes and cook this on a low flame until tomatoes turn soft & cooked.
• Sprinkle a bit of water at this point and cook until oil separates from the mix.
• Now lower the flame and pour in the Cashew Paste and mix well.
• Pour in some water & cook this on a low flame for a few minutes until the mix turns slightly dry.
• Add in the crumbled Paneer and mix well until well combined.
• Now pour in the Milk along with a pinch of Sugar and mix well.
• Cook this on a low flame until the Paneer is cooked through, and it reaches the desired consistency.
• Switch off the flame and garnish Paneer Bhurji with finely chopped Coriander Leaves and crushed Kasuri Methi.
• Paneer Bhurji suits best to be combined up with Chapatis, Roti, Batura, Paratha, Kulcha or Naan.  
• Or make Pav Bhaji recipe a bit extravagant by serving this Paneer Bhurji instead of the conventional Vegetable Bhaji.
  

PANEER BHURJI

 

NOTES:

• Adding Cashew Paste is purely optional in this recipe,  But it gives a wonderful taste to this Paneer Bhurji.
• You can make Paneer Bhurji dry or into a slight gravy version.
• Skip adding Cashew paste and milk if you want a drier version of Paneer Bhurji.  
• The rest of the recipe and ingredients remain the same.
  
• Fresh homemade Paneer compliments the recipe with a remarkable texture and taste.
• Can also use store-bought Paneer for the recipe.
  

GREEN CHILLI PICKLE

    I got a liking for North Indian Pickles during my college days.  We had a few North Indian friends in our class, and we often shared our lunch boxes.  They loved our Idli, Dosa, Sambar Saadham, Thayir Sadham & I fell for their Dokla, Theplas, Parathas, and least to mention Punjabi Katta Meetta Aam ka Achar, Aam Chunda, Methia Keri Athanu, Katta Meeta Nimbu ka Achar, Hari Mirch ka Achar etc., They would always have Rotis, Subzi and a Pickle and me being a Pickle lover use to fall head over heels for Roti & Subzi and especially along with the Pickles. Hari Mirch ka Achar or the Green Chilli Pickles were one among them. I feel quite nostalgic when I think about this scenario now.

    Green Chilli Pickle, though this recipe is more or less my version of Pickle which suits my likes and preference.  With a mish mash of Punjabi Chilli Pickle and South Indian style pickle, as I add Red Chilli Powder to the Pickle and use Gingelly oil instead of Mustard Oil.  This version started during my initial days of trials with Pickling and I least had an access or knowledge for authentic versions of North Indian Pickles.  But I have always loved to combine it up with Parathas or Chapatis and these Pickles are made just for me at home.  Me being a Pickle lover and others at home even do not bother to take note of something like this exist in my pantry.  So all those numerous bottles of varieties of Pickles lined up in my refrigerator is solely made "ONLY FOR ME."

    I usually make these Green Chilli Pickle with the long variety of Green Chillies available in the local Market(Malaysia). The same variety is used for making Chilli Jeruk or the pickled Green Chillies in Vinegar which is a local favourite which is served along with Noodles & Fried Rice.  These varieties are not that spicy in terms with normal Chillies and the native Chilli Padi available in Malaysia.  But my first attempt with this Green Chillies were with Chilli Padi alias Kandhari Mulagu.  The sole reason behind it was a big Kandhari Mulagu plant the white variety which grew as big as a bush and I had three big plants of the same variety and a few small basket full of Chillies.  So, any extra produce available, gets converted into a Pickle in my kitchen.

    This Green Chilli Pickle is spicy to the norms as I add Red Chilli Powder along with other ingredients in this recipe, but it is purely optional.  Though the spiciness from the Green Chillies and Red Chillies are balanced and compensated with the addition of Lemon Juice and Jaggery.  For any pickle, Mustard, Asafoetida, Fenugreek seeds and mainly OIL plays a major role.  The type of oil used in a pickle is based on the region from which it originates. South Indian Pickles use Indian Gingelly Oil whereas, North Indian Pickles are laced with Mustard Oil. In this Green Chilli Pickle, the mustard seeds play the main part, imparting a wonderful flavour to this Pickle. We need to add more of crushed mustard seeds compared to other pickles. Another important ingredient for this pickle(any pickle as a matter of fact) is Oil. We should be generous enough while adding oil to Green Chilli Pickle.  This will prolong the shelf life. The spice and oil play a significant role in the shelf life of the pickle.

    This Green Chilli Pickle can simply be paired up with Chapatis, Roti, Batura, Methi Theplas, Mooli Roti, Aloo Paratha, Pudina Parathas, Spring Onion Paratha, Beetroot Chapati, Moong Dal Parathas, Gobi Paratha, Paneer Paratha, Matar Paratha etc.,
 

For more PICKLE Recipes, Click here...

Cuisine - North Indian(Punjabi)
Recipe Type - Pickle
Difficulty - Easy
Yields - 1- 11/2 Cups
Author - SM

Preparation Time - 20 - 30 Minutes
Maturing Time - 2-3 Days.

For NORTH INDIAN STYLE PARATHA RECIPES, Click here...

HOW TO MAKE GREEN CHILLI PICKLE

GREEN CHILLI PICKLE

INGREDIENTS :

For Green Chilli Pickle:

Green Chillies  - 20-25 big variety Chillies
Salt - 2 Tablespoons
Red Chilli Powder - 2-3 Tablespoons(Optional)
Turmeric Powder - 1 Teaspoon
Asafoetida - 1/2 Teaspoon
Jaggery - 1/2 Teaspoon
Gingelly(Sesame) Oil/Mustard Oil - 1/4 Cup

 

For Pickle Spice Mix:

Yellow Mustard Seeds - 2 Tablespoons
Fenugreek Seeds Powder - 1/2 Tablespoon
Fennel Seeds - a Pinch
Coriander Seeds -1 Teaspoons

 

METHOD:

• Sun dry the ingredients mentioned under "For Pickle Spice Mix" for a day or two.
• Alternatively, can dry-roast the ingredients on a very low flame until dry and aromatic.
• Dry roast the Fenugreek seeds, Fennel and Coriander Seeds on a low flame until it splutters and turns fragrant.
• Once completely dry, grind the ingredients coarsely and keep it aside.
• Slightly dry roast the Yellow Mustard seeds for a few minutes.
  
• Coarsely grind or Crush the Yellow Mustard Seeds and keep it aside.
• Meanwhile, wash the Green Chillies and pat dry them with a clean kitchen towel.
• Remove the stalks, and cut the Green Chillies into two, then make a small slit through each portion.
  
• In a large mixing bowl/jar, add the Green Chillies along with Turmeric Powder, Red Chilli Powder, Asafoetida, Salt and mix well.
• Add Crushed Mustard Seeds & the coarsely ground Pickle spice mix, pour in the Lemon Juice and mix well.
  
• Heat the Gingelly Oil/Mustard Oil until it reaches the smoky point.
• Turn off the flame and allow the oil to cool down.
  
• Now, gently pour in the Gingelly Oil/Mustard Oil into the Pickle and mix well.
• Mix all the ingredients until well combined, add the Jaggery powder and mix well.
  
• Adjust the amount of Salt if required.
• Tightly cover the mouth of the jar and leave this in a cool, dry and dark place for about 2-3 days.
• Mix the pickle every day with a clean and dry spoon(preferably a wooden spoon).
• After 2-3 days, Green Chilli Pickle is ready to be used.
• The Green Chilli Pickle is ready once the spice mixture is well infused into the Green Chillies.
• The Green Chillies would have turned soft and tender, once the pickle is ready.
• Store the Pickle in a clean and dry Glass/Ceramic Jar.
• Green Chilli Pickle tastes great with Parathas, Chapatis, Roti, Batura etc., 
  
• Can pair it up with Curd Rice too.

 

GREEN CHILLI PICKLE

NOTES:

• The Green Chillies should be absolutely dry & moist free before cutting them for the Pickle.
• Care should be taken while dry roasting fenugreek seeds.  Do not burn them, which would totally spoil the taste of the pickle.
• Adding Red Chilli Powder to the Green Chilli Pickle is truly optional.
• Adjust the amount of Red Chilli Powder to suit your spice level.
• Pour ample of Gingelly Oil/Mustard Oil to the pickle.  This will prolong the shelf life of the pickle.
• If you feel that extra oil should be added, once the pickle is made, Heat the Oil, cool it and then pour it over the pickle.
• Avoid using steel/aluminium/copper container for preserving the mangoes, as they tend to react with the acidic nature of salt and mangoes.
• A suitable method is to store them in a clean and dry, sterilized Glass/Ceramic/Porcelain Jars.
• Always use clean & dry spoons while handling this Green Chilli Pickle. 
• Wet jars/spoon can spoil the pickle as the moisture in them helps in the growth of Fungus and that would spoil the pickle. 
• If stored properly,  Green Chilli Pickle can last for a year or so. 
• The Pickle should be stored in a dry and dark place.
• In humid climates, it is advisable to keep them refrigerated to avoid spoilage.   
  

 

MOONG DAL PARATHA

      Stuffed Indian Bread, colloquially named Parathas are Rotis made with immediately available ingredients in an Indian Kitchen. North Indian Cuisine is filled with variable recipes with a variety of stuffed Parathas. These parathas are made with Whole wheat flour(Gehun ka Aatta).  We can get wild with the choice of stuffings, Aloo Paratha with Potatoes Stuffed in it, or Methi (Fenugreek Leaves) Paratha/Thepla, Mint Paratha, Onion/Spring Onion Paratha, Gobi(Cauliflower) Paratha, Mooli(Radish) Paratha, Dhal Paratha, Paneer Paratha etc., & etc.,

      Dal Paratha is one of the most famous Indian Bread stuffed with Moong Dhal or Chana Dhal(Bengal Gram Dhal).  This is a popular dish originating from Punjab, but can commonly be termed as a North Indian Dish.  Dal Paratha can be served at any time of the day, it suits well for a breakfast, lunch and dinner.  Serve hot Parathas with a blob of Butter along with a cup of Curd(Yoghurt), Pickle or Raitha.

MOONG DAL PARATHA

      Dal Parathas are Whole Wheat Indian Bread with a heartwarming pre-cooked Dal Stuffing.  I have made this recipe with freshly cooked Moong Dal and then it is mixed along with seasonings & spices.  The Moong Dhal mix is used for stuffing the Paratha. Make sure that the Moong Dals aren't overcooked which will make it mushy.    The same recipe can be prepared with Chana Dal, but when prepared with Chana Dal, the Paratha becomes filling and slightly heavier than Moong Dal Paratha.  And the Prathas tastes unique to the Dhal used for stuffing.  The same recipe can be prepared with left-over Dal too. 

    What makes Moong Dal Paratha special is the soft and tasty filling of Moong Dal flavoured with mild spice powders and seasonings. Garam Masala gives this Paratha a wonderful flavour and Amchur(Dry Mango Powder) adds a tinge of tanginess to the dish. Usually, Parathas are roasted with lots of Ghee(Clarified Butter) and served with dollops of Butter. Moong Dal Parathas are wholesome as they are, so serve them with simple side dishes. These Parathas taste best when served hot with Pickles /Aachar, Curd or Raitha.  Moong Dal Paratha is one best dish which can be packed in a Lunch Box, as it stays fresh and soft even after a long time.

 

For more Recipes on INDIAN BREADS, Click here...


Cuisine : North Indian ( Punjabi)
Course : Main Course
Difficulty : Medium
Spice Level - Low
Serves : 4
Yields : 12 - 15 Parathas
Author : SM

Preparation Time : 25-30 Minutes
Leavening Time : 5-8 Minutes
Cooking Time : 15-20 Minutes

For more PARATHA RECIPES, Click here...

 

HOW TO MAKE DAL PARATHA - MOONG DAL STUFFED CHAPATIS

 

MOONG DAL PARATHA

INGREDIENTS:

For The Dough:

Whole Wheat Flour - 2 Cups
Salt - To Taste
Sugar - 1 Teaspoon (Optional)
Ghee/Oil - 2 Tablespoons
Water - as Required
  

For the Stuffing:

Moong Dal - 1/2 Cup
Onion - 1 No.
Green Chillies - 1-2 Nos.
Cumin Seeds - 1 Teaspoon
Red Chilli Powder - 1/2 Teaspoon
Garam Masala - 1/2 Teaspoon
Dry Mango Powder(Amchur) - 2 Teaspoons
Coriander Leaves/Spring Onions - Few.
Salt - To Taste
Oil/Ghee - 2 Teaspoons

To Cook:

Ghee/Oil - 4-5 Tablespoons (To Drizzle)

METHOD:

For the Dough:

• Mix all the ingredients mentioned under 'For the dough', adding a little water, and knead it into a pliable dough.
• Finally, add oil /melted Ghee and knead it again for about 7-8 minutes.
• Cover and leave it aside for 5-8 minutes.
• Before rolling them, knead it again.
• Divide the dough into 12-15  medium-sized balls and keep it aside.

For the Stuffing:

• Cook Moong Dal in a Saucepan or in a pressure cooker with enough water.
  
• Once cooked, drain the dal for about 15-20 minutes.
• Make sure that the water used for cooking is drained off before making the stuffing.
• Can mix all the other ingredients mentioned under "For stuffing" raw or sautéed.
  
• If Sautéing, heat Oil/Ghee in a Pan over medium flame.
• Splutter Cumin seeds, add finely chopped Onions and Green Chillies.
• Sauté them until Onions turn translucent.
• Add, Red Chilli Powder, Garam Masala to the above and fry this on a very low flame for few minutes.
• Add slightly mashed Moong Dal along with a dash of Salt and mix well.
• Sprinkle Amchur Powder and finely chopped Coriander Leaves/Spring Onions and mix well.
• Leave this on a low flame for a few minutes and switch off the flame.
• Allow it to cool.
• Divide the Moong Dal Stuffing into 12-15 medium-sized balls and keep them aside.

For Moong Dal Paratha:

• Roll the dough balls into thin circles.
• Place a little Moong Dal Stuffing at the centre.
• Bring the sides of the dough together and seal them tightly with your fingers, shaping them into a ball.
• Dust some flour and roll the dough with Moong Dal Stuffing into a Circle.
• Heat a griddle(Tawa) and cook each paratha on a medium flame.
• Drizzle 1/4 Teaspoon of Oil/Ghee over each Paratha and cook them until they turn into golden brown colour on both the sides.
• Follow the suit for the rest of the dough balls.
• Serve hot Moong Dal Parathas with a bowl of Curd(yoghurt), Raitha or Pickle.

MOONG DAL PARATHA

NOTES:

• Add very little water as required while kneading the dough.
• Adding Ghee/Oil while kneading the dough yields soft Parathas.
• Can Substitute Amchur(Dry Mango Powder) with Lemon Juice.
• Chop Onions and Green Chillies as finely as possible.
• Can avoid adding Green Chillies too.
• Slightly mash the Moong Dal for the stuffing.
•  I have sautéed all the ingredients for the stuffing.
• Alternatively, can mix all the other ingredients mentioned under "For stuffing" raw along with cooked Moong Dal.
• Cook Moong Dal Paratha over a hot griddle.  If cooked at low temperature, Parathas tend to become hard.
• Can avoid adding Ghee/Oil while roasting the Parathas.
• Can also smear a blob of butter over hot Moong Dal parathas before serving.