Essence of Life - Food
  • Home
  • From My Kitchen
    • Heirloom Recipes
    • From God's Own Country
    • Sadhya
    • Kongu Cuisine
    • Chettinaad Cuisine
    • South East Asian
    • Around the World
  • Ebook
  • I Me Myself
MEE GORENG
MEE GORENG MELAYU - FRIED NOODLES MALAY STYLE


     Mee Goreng Melayu/Fried Noodles in Malay Style is one among numerous recipes and styles of Mee Goreng Recipe. It is as versatile as it is spelt, Mi Goreng, Mie Goreng but solely depends on where it originates. This Mee Goreng Melayu Recipe is slightly different from the Hokkien Mee, where they use Dark Soy Sauce as the base.  But in Malay style Mee Goreng Recipe they widely use Sambal(Chilli Paste) along with some Sauces to enhance the flavour. When you are in a mood for simple cooking then this recipe is a wonderful choice.
     A trip to the grocery store is usually incomplete without a pack of Hokkien Mee/Mee Kuning - Yellow Egg Noodles. And when my daughter is back home, I make sure to prepare Mee Goreng/Bihun Recipes. Or at least we end up with Instant Mee Goreng Packets. 
     Mee Kuning/Yellow Noodle - It is usually thick, round and yellow in colour. They are fresh, soft medium sized Egg Noodles.  We can find them at the Asian Grocery Stores in the refrigerated Section or at wet Markets.  Fresh Mee Kuning is prepared with Wheat Flour, Palm Oil & Salt.  I always feel that even the Mee Kuning Packet is Oily. While I was mentioning about this during a random talk, my friend Santhini suggested me to blanch it twice. This way some of the extra fat, coating the Noodle is removed, at least to an extent.
      You can always substitute it with any other dried Noodles variety. Dried Egg Noodles, commonly marketed as Chow Mein Noodles are one best alternative for this Yellow Noodles, even Spaghetti can be used to prepare this Mee Goreng Melayu. Cook the noodles as per the instruction and then use it in the recipe.

For more NOODLES Recipes, Click here...


Cuisine - South-East Asian, Malaysian
Course - Main
Spice Level - Moderate
Difficulty - Medium
Serves - 3-4
Author - SM

Preparation Time - 20-30 Minutes
Cooking Time - 20-30 Minutes




HOW TO COOK MEE GORENG  MELAYU - FRIED NOODLES MALAY STYLE


INGREDIENTS :

Hokkien Noodles/Yellow Egg Noodles - 500 Gms 
Chicken Breast Meat - 1/2 Cup
Eggs - 2 Nos.
Fish Cakes/Soft Tofu - 1/2 Cup
Cabbage - Few Shreds
Carrot - Few Shreds
Garlic - 3 Cloves
Fresh Red Chillies - 1 No.
Sambal Tumis - 2-3 Tbspn
Chicken Stock Powder - 1 Cube
Pepper Powder - 1 Tspn
ABC Sauce/Dark Soy Sauce - 2 Tbspn
Peanut Oil - 3 Tbspn
Salt - To Taste
Sugar - 1 Tspn

To Garnish :


Bean Sprouts - Handful
Sawi(Mustard Greens)/Choy Sum/Bok Choy - Handful
Spring Onions - few



Serving Suggestion :


Lime Wedges
Extra Sambal Tumis
Fried Onions/Bawang Goreng

For SAMBAL TUMIS RECIPE, Click here...

 

METHOD :

Preparation :
  • Shred the Cabbage and Cut it into thin strips. 
  • Peel, Wash and Cut Carrots into thin strips.
  • In the meantime, heat a small frying pan with Oil and shallow fry the Fish Cakes/Tofu. Keep it aside.
  • Beat the Eggs slightly with a pinch of Salt and Scramble it. Keep it aside.
  • Shallow fry the Chicken Pieces with a pinch of Salt until they are cooked.
  • If using Yellow Noodles, dip them in hot water for a few minutes.  Drain and discard the water.
  • Allow it to drain in a Colander.
  • Finely chop the Garlic Cloves and fresh Red Chillies and keep it aside.

Cooking :
  • Heat Oil in a Wok, Saute finely chopped Garlic CLoves and Red Chillies until garlic turns aromatic.
  • Add Sambal Tumis, Chicken Stock Powder and ABC Sauce/Dark Soy Sauce and give a quick stir.
  • Saute it on a high flame for a few minutes.
  • Add shallow fried Fish Cakes/Tofu, Chicken Pieces and Carrots.
  • Cook this for a while.
  • Add blanched Yellow Noodles and gently mix all the ingredients until well combined. 
  • Mix until all the ingredients and Sauces are well coated to every Noodle strand.
  • Cook on a high flame for about 2-3 MInutes.
  • Finally, add shredded Cabbage, shredded Sawi/Choy Sum, Spring Onions and a handful of Bean Sprouts(Taugeh).
  • Immediately switch off the flame.
  • Serve Mee Goreng Melayu hot along with Bawang Goreng(fried onions), a wedge of Lime and an extra serving of Sambal Tumis.
  • Just before eating squeeze the wedge of Lime.

 

NOTES :

  • Ensure that the Sambal & Sauce mix is not watery while adding the blanched Noodles, it can make Mee Goreng Melayu Soggy.
  • Adjust the spiciness to suit your spice level.
  • Can substitute Sambal Tumis with fresh Sambal Paste.  Saute it well until fragrant and follow the rest of the steps for the recipe.
  • I have used fresh Yellow Noodles(Mee Kuning) in this Mee Goreng Melayu Recipe.
  • Adding Sugar is purely optional.
  • ABC Sauce(Kicap Manis) on its own gives out a bit of sweetness to the dish. Adjust accordingly.
  • Can also add Prawns instead of Chicken pieces or can use both in your recipe.
VEGGIES - STIR FRY
STIR-FRIED BEAN SPROUTS - TAUGEH GORENG


     Taugeh - Moong Bean Sprout is definitely one of the most commonly used ingredients in South East Asian Cooking. It is widely used in Noodle dishes, you can see these Bean Sprouts/Taugeh lavishly garnished in Mee Goreng Recipes, Fried Bee Hoon(Bihun), Singapore Mee, Char Kuey Teow, Hokkien Mee, etc., or as a simple Stir Fry with Garlic and Chillies, some recipes even go to the extent of adding Dried Fish/Firm Tofu/Scrambled Eggs along with these Bean Sprouts.  Fresh bean Sprouts are rolled into Spring Rolls - the regionally famous Popiah and are used as a garnish for Vietnamese Phở and in numerous Asian Soup Recipes or tossed into Fried Noodle dishes. In Korean Cuisine, the Sprouts are blanched and then seasoned with Sesame Oil, Garlic, Salt and served as Banchan.
      It is one must have ingredient used in the hawker stalls in Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, and Thailand. Stir-fried Taugeh is a  common dish that you can find in every economy Rice Stalls, Mamak Shops here in Malaysia. The first time I ate this Taugeh/Sprouted Black Moong Bean Stir fry was at a Mamak Shop. Sprouts these long, awed me though and how they were cooked, retaining the succulence and crunchiness was the nest question.  Then started my trial and error experiments, with few attempts of soggy Taugeh stir-fries, I learned one main technique in South East Asian Cooking, cooking on high heat, briefly.  It fits for ingredients like Asian Greens, Taugeh, Brocolli, Chinese Cabbage, etc.,
     Sprouts, as we all know are power packed with nutrients.  Since childhood, I have seen my mother make Bean Sprouts from Green Moong Bean, Chick Peas, Red Bean, etc., But those sprouts were just-sprouted type.  The kind of Bean sprouts we get in Malaysia are literally long ones, long in the sense they measure upto 1- 11/2 inches in size.  And they are sweet, succulent and has a wonderful crunchy texture if cooked perfectly.  We can also see Bean Sprouts prepared from Black Moong Bean & Soy Bean. they have bigger, droopier heads–which are popular in Korea.
     The best way to eat the freshly sprouted Taugeh is to eat them raw. Cooked Taugeh lose quite a bit of the nutritional values as well as all the enzymes. So the best way is to use it is as a garnish over hot dishes.  I usually stir-in the Taugeh at the final stage while adding it into Singapore Mee/Mee Goreng Recipes. While preparing a Stir-fry cook on a high heat for a brief period of time.  This way Taugeh/bean Sprouts tend to retain their crunchiness, texture and nutritional value.
     Taugeh is considered as a super food that is good for health. Raw Taugeh is full of nutritional value. It contains Vitamins A, C, E, K, and Folate in addition to an assortment of Minerals including Calcium, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Potassium & Manganese
     This recipe is a simple Stir-fry prepared with Taugeh/Moong Bean Sprouts, cooked along with Garlic, Chives, and Bird's-eye Chillies. These wonderful power packed Bean sprouts, take center stage in this quick, flavour filled stir-fry. The addition of just a few ingredients over high heat brings out their sweet succulence.


For more VEGGIES & STIR FRY Recipes, Click here...


Cuisine - Chinese; Southeast Asian
Recipe Type - Stir Fry
Spice Level  - Low
Difficulty - Easy

Serves - 2- 3
Author - SM

Preparation Time - 5 - 10 Minutes
Cooking Time - 5-10 Minutes




 HOW TO COOK STIR-FRIED BEAN SPROUTS - TAUGEH GORENG


VEGGIES - STIR FRY
STIR-FRIED BEAN SPROUTS - TAUGEH GORENG




INGREDIENTS:

Taugeh(Moong Bean Sprouts) - 2 Cups
Garlic - 2 Cloves
Birds-eye Chillies(Red) - 1 No.(Optional)
Chives/Spring Onions - few
Light Soy Sauce - 1 Tbspn
Salt - To Taste
Sugar - a Pinch.
Peanut Oil - 2 Tbspn.


METHOD:

  • Clean, snap-off the tails from Taugeh/Moong Bean Sprouts and rinse it thoroughly.
  • Allow it to drain in a Colander.
  • Heat Oil in a pan over high flame.
  • Add finely chopped Garlic, Bird's-eye Chilly and saute it over a high flame until aromatic(for about 20 seconds).
  • Add Taugeh/Moong Bean Sprouts, Light Soy Sauce, Salt and a pinch of Sugar and give a quick stir.
  • Cook this on a high flame for a minute.
  • Add finely chopped Chives/Spring Onions and cook briefly.
  • Immediately switch off the flame.
  • Serve Taugeh Goreng/stir-fried Bean Sprouts immediately.

NOTES :

  • Cook the ingredients over a high flame for a brief period of time.
  • Taugeh/Moong Bean Sprouts should not be overcooked or turn soggy.
  • Adding Bird's-eye Chilly is purely optional.
  • If you want a less spicy version, add Pepper Powder instead of Chillies.
  • I have used Peanut Oil in this recipe, can substitute it with any other vegetable oil of your choice. 



RAITHAS & SALADS
MOOLI RAITA - YOGURT SALAD WITH RADISH


    
     Mooli/Radish Raitha is a common Yogurt based condiment served along with  Parathas/Rotis, Biriyanis/Pulaos etc., Raita means Salad and this recipe has Yogurt(Curd) as a base flavour with finely chopped Radish.  Finely chopped Radish gives a crunchiness along with a mild pungency and sweetness from the vegetable.  When combined with creamy chilled Curd makes this simple dish a wonderful side dish for Chapatis, Roti/Parottas and Parathas or can also be served along with dishes like Biriyanis, Puloas.
     Mooli Raitha or Yogurt/Curd Salad prepared with Radish is a quick fix recipe.  Easy to make, quite comforting and tasty. I learnt this recipe from Winnie Aunty. She artistically chopped the Radish in a typical Kerala Style(Kothi Ariyal).  Radish tends to ooze out the water once chopped.  So slightly squeeze out the extra oozed out water before making this Mooli Raitha, otherwise, the Raitha would turn out to be watery.
     Radish is Fibre rich vegetable, low in calorie. It is good for the liver and soothes the stomach. It also acts as a detoxifier. Radishes also help regulate the absorption of sugars into the bloodstream. Eating Radish in raw form has proven health benefits. Converting it into a Juice or eating raw radish in the form of Raita, helps stabilize blood glucose levels.  Can add into Curries or prepare Sambar with Radish.  Mooli/Radish Paratha is one tasty option to add Radish into your menu.



Cuisine - Indian
Recipe - Condiment
Difficulty - Easy
Serves - 3- 4
Author - SM

Preparation Time - 5-10 Minutes


HOW TO MAKE MOOLI RAITA - YOGURT SALAD WITH RADISH

 

INGREDIENTS:

Radish - 1 Cup
Green Chillies - 1 No.
Cumin Powder - a Pinch
Salt - To Taste
Sugar - a Pinch
Coriander Leaves - few
Curd/Yogurt - 1 Cup


METHOD :

  • Clean and Peel the Radish.
  • Chop Radish into very thin slices & finely chop them
  • Finely chop Green Chillies & Coriander Leaves.
  • Whisk the Curd until smooth, pour it into the chopped Radish and Green Chillies.
  • Add Salt, a pinch of Sugar and mix until well combined.
  • Garnish it with finely chopped Coriander Leaves.
  • Refrigerate the Mooli Raitha until it is served.
  • Serve it along with Chapatis, Roti/Parottas and Parathas/Theplas or along with Biriyanis/Puloas.

NOTES :

  • Finely chopped/grated Radish tends to ooze out water, so slightly squeeze out the extra water from the Vegetable before adding it along with Curd.
  • The Yogurt/Curd should not be sour. Use fresh Curd for the recipe.
  • Refrigerate the curd before mixing it up with Radish.
  • Whisking and refrigerating the Curd will give a good, smooth texture to Mooli Raitha.
  • Adding Sugar to the Mooli Raitha is purely optional.
  • Refrigerate the Mooli Raitha until it is served.
  • Can add a Pinch of Red Chilli Powder for a slightly spicier version of Mooli Raitha.
  • Can also add a pinch of Chaat Masala to add flavour to the Mooli Raitha.


INDIAN BREADS
GUJARATI METHI THEPLA - FENUGREEK LEAVES PARATHA

     Methi Thepla is a Gujarati speciality prepared with Whole Wheat Flour, Gram Flour, Fenugreek Leaves and mild spices.  It is a simple Paratha or Indian Bread with an awesome texture and wonderful aroma.  Methi Leaves are the selling point of this Parathas, they impart a smell unique to itself.  Commonly Besan(Gram Flour), Bajra/Jowar Flour is added while preparing Theplas. Add a bit of Curd/Yogurt to knead the dough which will yield you soft Methi Theplas.  But if you are eating these Theplas later/packing it in your lunch box /while travelling avoid adding Gram Flour which will make the Theplas hard.
     You can always buy fresh Methi Leaves from the street vendors who sell Greens/Spinach.  Among the local varieties of Greens, they always have few bunches of Methi Leaves(Menthiya/Venthiya Keerai).  My Mom makes Puli Kuzhambu with Menthiya/Venthaya Keerai.  She always has a patch of these greens in her vegetable garden. She meticulously dries it up and sends me a supply of Kasuri Methi(Dried-fenugreek Leaves) from home.  The dried leaves impart a smell and a whole lot of box with other goodies will have a unique smell, reminiscence of home and Kasuri Methi combined together. This smell has become so acquainted into my senses that I can even smell it right away.
     I do not get fresh Methi Leaves, where I live.  A few months back when I saw a bunch of Methi Leaves in an Indian shop in Kuala Lumpur, I literally wanted to grab it.  But due to travelling plans, I couldn't take the chance of buying it.  Alas, I had to forgo the chance of making Methi Theplas with fresh methi leaves.  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. When my daughter came back home from her recent trip to India, as usual, my mother had sent a fresh batch of Kasuri Methi.  It was long since I wanted to eat these wonderful Methi Theplas, so no second thought immediately got into action and here goes the recipe for Methi Thepla.
     Methi paratha can be made in different ways. I learnt it from my North Indian friend's during my college days.  I like to chop the Methi Leaves and add it while kneading the dough.  Some recipes even call for grinding Methi Leaves into a paste. Can you make Methi Theplas with Kasuri Methi(dried fenugreek leaves)? Innovation is a point of deprivation when you do not get a fresh supply, try your hand with the most equivalent or apt substitute.  Kasuri Methi is nothing but dried Methi Leaves used in various dishes as flavour enhancer/aromatic.  Can just add the dried leaves while kneading the flour.  I soaked the Dried Methi Leaves for about 30-45 Minutes drained it up and then added it into the dough.  But Methi Theplas prepared with fresh Methi Leaves are incomparable, a step ahead of the later in terms of flavour and aroma.
     If you are soaking the Kasuri Methi, drain it well before kneading it along with the flour, otherwise, the dough would be very difficult to handle. Methi Theplas can be eaten with just some Plain Curd,  Curd Raitha or Pickle.  Methi Thepla is usually cooked over the griddle with a drizzle of Oil/Ghee.  The smell of Methi Leaves and Ghee wafts out a pleasant aroma while cooking.

For more INDIAN BREADS, Click here...


Cuisine - North Indian ( Gujarati)
Course - Main Course
Difficulty - Medium
Spice Level - Low
Serves - 4
Yields - 12 - 15 Methi Theplas
Author - SM

Preparation Time - 10-15 Minutes
Leavening Time - 5-8 Minutes
Cooking Time - 15 - 20 Minutes


HOW TO MAKE GUJARATI METHI THEPLA - FENUGREEK LEAVES PARATHA

 

INGREDIENTS :

For the Dough :

Whole Wheat Flour - 2 Cups
Gram Flour(Besan) - 1/2 Cup
Methi Leaves(Fresh Fenugreek Leaves) - 1 Cup
Turmeric Powder - 1/2 Tspn
Red Chilli Powder - 11/2 Tspn.
Ajwain Seeds - 1/2 Tspn
Salt - To Taste
Sugar - 1 Tspn (Optional)
Curd/Yogurt - 1/2 Cup
Oil - 3 Tspns(for Dough)
Water - as Required

To Cook :

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

METHOD :

  • Clean, Wash and Chop Methi/Fenugreek Leaves.
  • In a large bowl, add finely chopped Methi/Fenugreek Leaves and all the dry ingredients mentioned under 'For the dough'. 
  • Pour 2 Tspns of Oil to the above ingredients and mix well.
  • Make a well at the centre and pour in the Curd/Yogurt.
  • Gently mix all the ingredients and knead it into a pliable dough adding little water at a time.
  • Finally, add the remaining 1 Tspn of Oil and knead it again for about 2-3 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.
  • Then roll them out into thin circles.
  • Heat a Griddle(Tawa) and cook each Methi Thepla on a medium flame.
  • Drizzle 1/4 Tspn of Oil/Ghee over each Methi Thepla and cook until they turn into golden brown colour on both the sides.
  • Serve Methi Thepla hot with a bowl of Curd(yogurt), Raitha or Pickle.
  •  

NOTES :

  • If you are making the Theplas to store and eat later, do not add Gram Flour/Besan to the dough.
  • Gram Flour adds a crunch to the Methi Theplas and turns out to be perfect if served immediately.
  • Adding Curd/Yogurt while kneading the dough will yield you with soft Methi Theplas.
  • You can also use Buttermilk instead of Water to knead the dough.  It will make the Theplas softer.
  • If packing these Theplas for travelling avoid adding Curd/Buttermilk and knead the dough with Water. 
  • Add very little water as required while kneading the dough.
  • If fresh Fenugreek Leaves/Methi Leaves are not available, you can substitute it with Kasuri Methi(Dried Fenugreek Leaves) to make the Methi Thepla. Use 3 Tbspn of Kasuri Methi for every 2 cups of Flour.
  • Can substitute Red Chilli Powder for Green Chillies.
  • Garam Masala/Chat Masala can also be added while kneading the dough.
  • Can also smear a blob of butter over hot parathas before serving.


      It's Summer!!!  It proclaims its arrival with wonderful notes of Chirping birds & Buzzing Bees lingering around the Summer Fruit yielding trees to devour the Fruits. Houseflies loitering behind Mangoes & Jackfruit. The air gets heavy with humidity, comes along slight rustling of dry leaves from a mild breeze & evening showers at times. Along with Summer comes School Holidays commonly called Summer Holidays, Regional New Year, the arrival of relatives or some years go around with trips to your relative's homes. Some go ahead with the ritualistic Summer Vacation Plans.
      The emanating heat from the rise of temperature and way far a step ahead comes the Agni-nakshathram to finish off the Season.  The heat makes us all run helter-skelter in search of some source to cool down own body and system.  Our ancestors have had their own way to tackle the seasons, maybe Summer or Winter the food and regime followed by them were so much down to earth. They lived a life so close to nature that their lifestyle was precisely healthy - sticking on to the rule "FOOD AS MEDICINE".
     Beat the heat, beat the heat - a mind voice repeatedly insists, finding a way to soothe the scorching heat. Most of us come up with ritualistic Summer Food and Drinks which helps to cool down and hydrate our body system.  I have tried to comprise some of the best Juices & Smoothies made from Fresh Fruits and Drinks which are suitable to be catered for Summer. The overall idea is to keep your body cool and well hydrated during Summer.

BUTTERMILK

BUTTERMILK

      Buttermilk is a versatile ingredient and is used in various dishes & drinks for its taste & flavour. Buttermilk is one best drink to beat the Summer heat.  The very nature of Buttermilk along with its probiotics soothes your stomach and also helps to cut down the body heat.  Buttermilk otherwise called as Moru/Mor/Majjige in South Indian languages is converted into flavoured drinks in the name of Neer Mor/Sambharam/Masala Majjige/Chaas etc., It is the same drink prepared with diluted Curd/Yogurt or Buttermilk flavoured with regional preferences.


For detailed Recipe on HOW TO MAKE CURD/YOGURT, Click here...

 

NEERAGARAM/PAZHAYA SADHAM/PAZHANKANJI

NEERAGARAM/PAZHAYA SADHAM/PAZHANKANJI


     Pazhankanji/Pazhaya Sadham/Neeragaram all are the names given to a simple but nutritious dish prepared with soaked and fermented left-over Rice - providing us with Nutrition, Health & Strength. It is made by adding few cups of Water to cooked Rice and leaving it aside overnight which facilitates mild fermentation, dramatically changing the flavour, taste and significantly increasing the nutritious value. Adding a Cup of thick Curd/Yogurt & Salt to this humble dish enhances the overall nature, taste & nutrition of the dish.  Simply add some crushed Shallots and Kanthari Mulagu(Bird's-eye Chillies), there you get the flavours of the seasonings along with added health benefits of the ingredients. It is one best drink which will instantly cool your system.  Best for Breakfast or as a drink.


SAMBHARAM/SPICED BUTTERMILK/NEER MORU

SAMBHARAM/SPICED BUTTERMILK/NEER MORU

     Sambharam/Neer Mor/ Masala Majjige /Chaas is one drink traditionally served in an Indian household as a Drink or had along with rice to finish off the meal. Sambharam/Pacha Moru/ Morum Vellam/Nadan Moru - are all colloquial names for Spiced Butter Milk drink in 'GODS OWN COUNTRY - KERALA'.  Yogurt/Curd is churned using a Thayir Mathu/beaten finely in a blender along with Green Chillies, Ginger, Curry Leaves & Lemon Leaves. The herbs add an extraordinary flavour to the drink giving an overall refreshing feel and instantly cools down our body.
      It is a common practice in a South Indian household to serve Sambharam/Neer Moru when somebody comes home during hot weather. It is a cool and energizing drink for hot summer days. Sambharam is a famous drink and also an unavoidable part of 'KERALA SADHYA'. It is commonly served at the end of the meal/banquet. It helps you to feel refreshed after a heavy meal and aids digestion too.


LASSI - SWEET PUNJABI LASSI

LASSI - SWEET PUNJABI LASSI

      Lassi - Sweet Punjabi Lassi is a pride of Punjabi Cuisine and a wonderful drink to beat the Summer heat. It is a Curd/Yogurt based Smooth, Creamy and Sweet drink traditionally served in tall Punjabi Glasses or in Matkas(Earthern pots).  The results of a tall glass of cool, creamy and sweet Lassi is so instantaneous that it cools your body system immediately, refreshing and rejuvenating your senses. Lassi -creamy, sweet and slightly sour, sometimes salty, sometimes subtly spiced, this drink is utterly refreshing to the core.  Another advantage of drinking a Sweet Punjabi Lassi is that it happily falls under the category of a dessert masquerading as a drink.


MANGO LASSI

MANGO LASSI

     Yet another refreshing drink for Summer, prepared with ripe Mangoes, Curd/Yogurt and Milk.  With the richness of traditional Lassi comes along the flavour of Summer - Mangoes.  Mango 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.     Mango Lassi is one best way to enjoy the seasonal fruit. Serve it as a refreshing drink to quench your thirst during sweltering Summer days or as a Dessert to wash out the spicy dishes.


BADAM MILK

BADAM MILK



     Badam Milk/Badam Doodh is nothing but a flavoured drink prepared with blanched Almonds ground into a fine paste, mixed along with Milk & Sugar, flavoured with Cardamoms and Saffron. Indian drinks were prepared and served specifically to soothe your body according to the prevailing climatic conditions. Drinks with cooling effects were served during Summers and with heating effects were served during winters. Almonds/Badam with their skin has a heating effect on our body.  If the drink is prepared for Cooling purpose, then soak the nuts in cold water for 8-10 hours or overnight and prepare the Badam Milk.  Soaking them in cold water and blanching them brings out the cooling properties, increases digestibility and their nutritional values.

THANDAI

THANDAI
      Thandai ठंडाई is a special drink synonymous to Holi - an exquisite drink prepared with Milk & loads of Nuts, Rose Petals, Saffron Strands with a delicate note of spices in it. Thandai takes the festive fervour to another level.  Thandai is one favourite drink which comes into the limelight during Holi and it is India's favourite drink to welcome the upcoming Summer.  

RAGI HEALTH DRINK

RAGI HEALTH DRINK

     Ragi Malt or Ragi Koozh is a popular health drink made in most parts of South India. It is one of the best drinks which can hydrate your body and cool down your system. It is commonly prepared with powdered Ragi grain, alternatively can soak the Ragi grain overnight or for at least 8-10 Hours and grind it into a paste, then prepare the same drink.  There are different methods and versions of preparing the same drink.  Can add Milk/Buttermilk/Curd/Yogurt to Ragi Drink to make it tastier and healthier. Ragi health drink is a perfect drink not only during summers but it also suitable all the year through.

BARLEY DRINK

BARLEY DRINK
 
     Barley drink is one best homemade drink to keep your body cool and beat the internal heat.  Barley is a cereal grain, white in colour when hulled, a monocotyledon in the shape and colour of a pearl.  So it is commonly called as Barley Pearls. As Barley has high soluble fibre, it helps in reducing Cholesterol and Blood Glucose Level. It is also a powerful Diuretic, which proves beneficial in keeping your body cool and benefits a healthy Kidney function too.  Barley also helps detoxify our body in a natural way.


FRESH FRUIT JUICE/SMOOTHIES


WATERMELON JUICE

WATERMELON JUICE

      Fruits like Watermelons with rich water content are readily available in the market during Summers.  Water-rich fruits hydrate your body and help to cool down your body heat.  Let's have some cool water filled Watermelons to beat the summer heat. How do you like them- a Big Luscious Slice of Watermelon or a Glass of chilled Watermelon Juice?  Both ways it is one of the best ways to quench your thirst without any guilt of added calories.


HONEYDEW MELON SMOOTHIE

HONEYDEW MELON SMOOTHIE

      Honeydew Melons are sweet and creamy melons with a wonderful note of fragrance.  This Honeydew Melon Smoothie is a quick fix drink, comfortable and refreshing.  The natural sweetness of these Melons serves best to be served as an after meal fruit and when it is in the form of a dessert or a smoothie it would be more perfect. Honeydew Melons has rich water content and are an excellent source of Vitamin C. It is also a good source of Potassium and also helps to maintain the fluid balance in the body.


SUNDEW MELON SMOOTHIE

SUNDEW MELON SMOOTHIE
      
     This Sundew Melon Smoothie is a quick fix drink, comfortable and refreshing.  The natural sweetness of these Melons serves best to be served as an after meal fruit and when it is in the form of a dessert or a smoothie it would be more perfect. Sundew Melons has rich water content and are an excellent source of Vitamin C. It is also a good source of Potassium and also helps to maintain the fluid balance in the body. Drinking juices prepared from fresh fruit which has high water content helps to balance the fluid loss in the body during Summers.  


SOURSOP SMOOTHIE

SOURSOP SMOOTHIE


     Fruit Milkshakes/Smoothies, Batidos or Liquados are popular drinks served all over the world, made by blending fresh fruit with ice, milk and sugar. Eating Fruits and Vegetables is a preferred way makes it more comfortable and refreshing and when it is in the form of a dessert or a smoothie it would be more perfect. Soursop Smoothie is a delicious fruit smoothie that comes together in minutes.

MANGO SMOOTHIE

MANGO SMOOTHIE

     Mangoes are one versatile fruit which can be converted into delicious smoothies or desserts. The soft pulp of the fruit is used for preparing beverages, desserts, smoothies, and candy, as well as it is loaded with a wealth of traditional medical treatments that are used in many parts of the world.

APPLE, PEAR, BANANA SMOOTHIE

APPLE PEAR BANANA SMOOTHIE

     Apple, Pear, Banana Smoothie is a wonderful combination of fruits converted into a delicious and refreshing drink. I have sweetened this Smoothie with Dates & Honey. It is an easy smoothie recipe and all the more it is a completely satisfying & delicious drink which suits best to be served for Breakfast.  Smoothies with combinations of Fruits makes it a wonderful drink with notes and flavours from each fruit with combined benefits of all the fruits.  Apple, Pear, Banana Smoothie is a tasty and nutritious way to start your day.

POMEGRANATE JUICE

POMEGRANATE JUICE

     Eating the Pomegranate Arils or drinking it as a Juice, both ways the fruit proves to be beneficial.  It is one fruit which is equally good as a fruit and the juice.  The reason being the peel contains the maximum amount of antioxidants when juiced releases most of its nutrients.  Some find it difficult to deal with the little seeds, which makes juicing the fruit the best way to consume it.  All the more drinking Pomegranate Juice allows for quick and easy assimilation of nutrients into the bloodstream.
     Pomegranates are loaded with nutrients and has innumerable health benefits.  It is a great source of Antioxidants & has a rich source of Vitamin A, C and E.  It is also loaded with Minerals such as Calcium, Phosphorous, Potassium, Iron, Folic Acid, Niacin, Thiamin, Folates and Riboflavin.

ILANEER NANNARI SARBATH

ILANEER NANNARI SARBATH
   Ilaneer Nannari Sarbath is a cool & refreshing combination of Tender Coconut Water, a syrup made from a cooling natured herb Nannari/Sarsaparilla and Lemon, served with Tender Coconut shavings for a more comforting and refreshing feel.  This is a wonderful drink with a perfect combination of taste, flavour, aroma and above all, it cools down your body heat.


GREEN APPLE JUICE WITH HONEY, LEMON & GINGER 


GREEN APPLE JUICE WITH HONEY, LEMON & GINGER


     This is a wonderful and all the more a detoxifying fruit juice prepared with Green Apples along with Ginger and Lemon.  I usually sweeten this drink with honey.  Combined together the ingredients which go into this drink helps boost immunity, aids digestion, increase your energy levels and detoxifies your body. Green Apple Juice helps to get rid of Toxins and harmful elements from your liver, kidney and digestive system. Though this drink might be a simple recipe, it comes with a punch. The flavours combine for a sweet-tart concoction that hits your taste buds with a spicy kick from Ginger.

VIRGIN PINA COLADA

VIRGIN PINA COLADA


     Virgin Piña Colada - A simple mocktail recipe, creamy, refreshing and all the more non-alcoholic.  It's a sip of paradise in every glass which will surely help you dream yourself sitting under a shady palm tree on a beach, relaxing to the monotonous sound of the waves. An absolute sneak-in for a party -  Virgin Pina Colada is so rich and tasty that you won't even miss the alcohol.
     This Virgin Piña Colada is a mocktail recipe & one of the easiest drink you can ever make.  It’s literally a few chunks of Pineapple and cream of Coconut (Coconut Milk), two distinct and uniquely flavoured ingredients when combined together that they complement with each other so perfectly. Throw the ingredients into a blender along with few ice cubes, blend it up into a smooth, rich and creamy drink. The traditional Piña Colada is garnished with either a Pineapple Wedge, a Maraschino Cherry, or both. Follow your whims and fancy to garnish your Piña Colada, add a small paper umbrella to make it look fancier.


TOMATO JUICE

JUICES & DRINKS TO BEAT THE SUMMER HEAT, JUICE
TOMATO JUICE

     Tomato Juice prepared from fresh Tomatoes is a wonderful drink and it is power-packed with nutrition and a wide range of health benefits.  Above all, it cut down your calorie intake and help you create that calorie deficit required to lose weight. Drink Tomato Juice as a beverage or convert it into a wide range of Cocktail.

GRAPE JUICE

JUICES & DRINKS TO BEAT THE SUMMER HEAT, JUICE
GRAPE JUICE


      It’s very easy to make fresh grape juice at home, no peeling, coring, de-seeding, etc., Just blend the grapes with water in a blender, strain the juice and there you go with a wonderfully refreshing Grape Juice. You don't even need fancy Juicers for the purpose, you can get the job done using a simple blender.  Along with loads of health benefits, this homemade Grape Juice is an absolute refreshing drink.

APPLE SMOOTHIE

JUICES & DRINKS TO BEAT THE SUMMER HEAT, JUICE
APPLE SMOOTHIE


     Apple Smoothie is an absolute bliss to taste buds, a delicious way to treat yourself in the morning. is a tasty and nutritious way to start your day.  It will help you feel fuller and all the more it is a guilt-free drink less in Calories. This kids-friendly fresh fruit smoothie recipe is a simple blend of Apple, Dates, Milk, Almond and Honey. This is a quick fix drink, comfortable and refreshing.  The natural sweetness of this fruit serves best to be served as an after-meal fruit and when it is in the form of a dessert or a smoothie it would be more perfect. Apple Smoothie I have used a Red Apple and have sweetened the Smoothie with Dates and Honey.  I usually use Milk in my smoothie recipes, can substitute Milk with Almond Milk/Yogurt too.

CARROT JUICE

JUICES & DRINKS TO BEAT THE SUMMER HEAT, JUICE
CARROT JUICE

     Carrot Juice is an easy recipe which can be blended up within minutes in a mixer/juicer. The best way to consume Carrots is to have them raw.  So Juicing is one best way and you even don't have to worry about losing the nutrients from it.


STRAWBERRY MILK SHAKE

JUICES & DRINKS TO BEAT THE SUMMER HEAT, JUICE
STRAWBERRY MILK SHAKE

     This Strawberry Milkshake tastes like pure Strawberry, with a natural taste not too sweet & not too milky. This Milkshake is loaded with Strawberries and Strawberry Ice Cream to give a creamy, thick & pink coloured treat.


PINEAPPLE JUICE

JUICES & DRINKS TO BEAT THE SUMMER HEAT, JUICE
PINEAPPLE JUICE

     Homemade Pineapple Juice – refreshingly sweet, a bit tangy with just the right amount of tartness made from real fresh pineapples. Easy, simple and loaded with tons of nutrients in every glass. A glass of Pineapple juice is fit enough to serve you with an essential dose of Vitamin C for a day. A delicious tropical delight, which can boost your immunity & also can suppress inflammation.

PANAGAM - TRADITIONAL SOUTH INDIAN REFRESHING DRINK


JUICES & DRINKS TO BEAT THE SUMMER HEAT, JUICE
PANAGAM
     Panagam is a natural coolant and it helps to get our body hydrated. This drink is absolutely not limited to be prepared as a Prasadham.  It is a totally refreshing drink which can be easily made to quench your thirst on a hot day. Almost all the ingredients in Panagam has health benefits which makes this a totally wonderful and refreshing drink suitable for all Seasons.

     So enjoy the Summer by keeping yourself healthy, fit and hydrated.  Beat the Summer heat naturally with the above drinks and juices. 





Newer Posts Older Posts Home

Search Essence of Life - Food

Popular Posts

  • Pesaha Appam & Paal Recipe | Traditional Kerala Indri Appam for Maundy Thursday
  • How to Make Kerala Kanji | Traditional Rice Porridge with Payar, Chammanthi & Achar
  • Maida Chapati - All-Purpose Flour Chapati
  • Kizhi Parotta: Kothu Parotta and Salna Wrapped in Banana Leaves
  • Madurai Mutton Chukka Varuval

Ebook - "What I Cook – For Onam"

Ebook - "What I Cook – For Onam"
Celebrate Onam the authentic way! Discover 25 timeless Kerala Sadya recipes in my ebook What I Cook – For Onam. From avial to payasam, bring home the flavours of tradition. Available now on Amazon!

I Me Myself

SM - Essence of Life
Essence of Life - Food is all about daily cooking with a simple sense of taste and health. It is all about food. Not a day goes by without eating for most of us, so what we eat matters on the whole.

Food in the mode of goodness increases the duration of life, purifies one's existence, and gives strength, health, happiness, and satisfaction. Above all ingredients, the most vital one in my kitchen is love.
Sm
@ Essence of Life - Food

Subscribe Essence of Life - Food

"Guide to our Cookie Policy"

  • Cookie Policy

ASK FIRST!

Please note that all rights for the photographs and texts on this blog, unless otherwise mentioned, rests with the author. Please do not use without permission.

Labels

AROUND THE WORLD 160 BAKING 23 BEVERAGES 18 BIRIYANI & PULAO 28 BREAKFAST 78 CURRIES 103 DESSERTS 118 FROM GODS OWN COUNTRY 178 From My Family's Kitchen - Heirloom Recipes 52 GLOSSARY 23 HOW TO... 64 KERALA PALAHARAM 20 KONGU CUISINE 21 KUIH MUIH 5 MALAYSIAN CUISINE 80 MIDDLE EASTERN CUISINE 12 Manvasanai - Flavours from Tamil Soil 126 PICKLES 26 RICE DISHES 65 ROTIS 9 SADHYA 117 SNACKS & SAVOURIES 69 SOUPS 10 SPICE POWDERS 18 TIFFIN ITEMS 64 VIRUNDHU 15 WINES 10 eBook 1