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

RAGI HEALTH DRINK

RAGI HEALTH DRINK

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

SUNDEW MELON SMOOTHIE

SUNDEW MELON SMOOTHIE

SOURSOP SMOOTHIE

SOURSOP SMOOTHIE

MANGO SMOOTHIE

MANGO SMOOTHIE

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

     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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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. 

SULAIMANI CHAI

      Searching through my thoughts & while unravelling through my memories, I have always known that I have tasted this tea many times during my childhood days but never in the name of Sulaimani Chai.  I had always thought that it was some kind of a tea infused with spices, tasty and aids digestion. Mainly served after a heavy Biriyani Lunch mostly in a Muslim Wedding. What I loved the most in a Muslim Wedding is not the Sulaimani Chai, but my all-time favourite Biriyani. But the Malayalam movie Ustaad Hotel leaves a great impression for this 'Tea' -  Malabar's favourite Sulaimani Chai.


       I am absolutely not a Tea person and my love for Coffee is self-proclaimed, but if at all I have to write about Tea, then starting with a Sulaimani is the best choice. Sulaimani Chai is brewed to a beautiful shade of amber without any milk, served with a hint of Lemon. You can find a fresh Mint/Basil Leaf floating in this Chai/Tea.  Sulaimani Chai is a wonderful digestive agent infused with fresh flavours and a heady aroma.
     Though the origin of this wonderful concoction is from Ghava an infusion prepared with Dates and Spices, when and where this was converted into a Chai with Tea Leaves and Sugar is still a word of question. A culture which never drank tea, became total Teaholics with an unknown overturn. Unconsciously fell into the deep wells of British Marketing, being targeted as the proposed consumers for their propagated cultivation of Tea in India.  The love and addiction for Tea became extravagant in Indian minds that even small villages to towns to Railway Stations you can never miss a Tea Shop in India.  Maybe a small earthen pot, the typical Glass Tumbler or the undesignated Coconut Shells/Aluminum tumblers has become so synonymous to Tea, Tea Shops & Tea Lovers in India.  Least to mention the unfaltering sounds of Chai Wallas in a Railway Station, Chai... Chai... Chai... Chaya, Kappi...Kappi... Chayya...
       Though quite a number of versions are served throughout the region with two basic ingredients the Tea Leaves & Sugar, what makes this Sulaimani Chai so special is the addition of freshly pound Spices.  When it comes to spices, the choice can be made between Cardamom, Clove, Cinnamon - any one or a combination of two or all the three together.  Some versions of Sulaimani Chai leaves a hint of Mint/Lemon in it.  The choice is always to prepare it with ease and to suit your preference.  And finally, don't forget to add a pinch of Love into it.  That's what makes a Sulaimani worth drinking... I get nostalgic along with the wonderful song from the Malayalam Movie Ustad Hotel absolutely romantic and heady as 'Sulaimani Chai'.



Cuisine - Kerala
Recipe Type - Beverage
Difficulty - Easy
Serves -2
Author - SM   


Preparation & Cooking  Time - 5 - 10 Minutes
Brewing Time - 2-3 Minutes

HOW TO MAKE SULAIMANI CHAI

INGREDIENTS :

Water - 2 Cups
Tea Leaves - 1 Tspn/ 1 Tea Bag.
Sugar - To Taste
Cinnamon - 1" Piece
Clove - 2 Nos.
Cardamoms - 2 Nos.

Serving Suggestions :

Mint Leaves - few
Lemon

METHOD :

• Coarsely pound the Spices using a Mortar & a Pestle.
• Heat Water in a Saucepan, add the pound Spices and allow it to boil.
• Switch off the flame and immediately add the Tea Leaves/Tea Bag to the above spice-infused water.
• Cover and let the tea steep for about 2-3 Minutes.
• Add Sugar and give a quick stir.
• Strain and pour it into Tea Cups or Glass Tumblers.
• Serve Sulaimani Chai hot.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve Sulaimani Chai hot with few Mint Leaves in it.
• Or add a dash of Lime Juice and serve it immediately.

NOTES :

• Adjust the amount of Sugar to suit your taste preference.
• Can add any one or combination of two or all the three spices in Sulaimani Chai.
• Once the Tea is strained, serve it immediately.
• Adding Lemon Juice and Mint Leaves are purely optional.

     Sundew Melons are sweet and creamy melons with a wonderful note of fragrance.  Sundew Melons have a yellow exterior and light golden coloured interiors similar to Cantaloupes. It is also called as Canary Melons due to its bright yellow colour which resembles that of a Canary bird.
    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. 
     Sundew Melon is a fruit with light yellow hued flesh.  It has a delicious combination of a sweet taste & a mild note of fragrance. The flesh 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.
    
       The impressive health benefits of Sundew Melon include its ability to

• Hydrate the body and maintain the body fluids, 
• The high Potassium content in the fruit helps to curb Hypertension.
• The high water content in the fruit proves beneficial for Weight Loss.
• The Calcium content in the fruit helps maintain healthy teeth and bones.
• Vitamin A in Sundew Melon helps maintain a healthy Eye and vision.
• Vitamin C in the fruit proves beneficial for the skin.
• Essential Vitamins and Minerals boosts the overall immune system, 
• Helps to prevent & treat Diabetes,
• The soluble fibres in the fruit help to reduce high Cholesterol level.
• It soothes the stomach and promotes digestion.
• It also strengthens the Kidneys by flushing out the toxins.
• It is good for Pregnant Women.

     Sundew Melons are rich in Vitamins and Minerals. It is loaded with Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Vitamin B and a number of antioxidant compounds. It is a good source of Potassium and other minerals like Zinc, Phosphorus, Iron, Copper, Manganese and soluble fibres.

Recipe Type - Smoothie
Difficulty - Easy
Serves - 3 - 4
Author - SM  

Preparation Time - 15 - 20 Minutes

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

HOW TO MAKE SUNDEW MELON SMOOTHIE

 

INGREDIENTS :

Sundew Melon - 2 Cups
Milk - 2 Cups
Sugar/Honey - 1/4 Cup
Ice Cubes - 1 Cup

METHOD :

• Peel, scoop out the pulp in the centre and discard the seeds.
• Cut the Sundew Melon into cubes.
• Blend the Sundew Melon Cubes, Milk, Ice cubes and Sugar in a blender. 
• Puree until all the ingredients are smooth, creamy, and sugar is well dissolved.
• Pour it out into serving glasses.
• Served Sundew Melon Smoothie chilled.

NOTES :

• Grinding the ice cubes with the fruit yields a perfectly chilled and thick smoothie.
• Can substitute Sugar with Honey.
• Sundew Melons are naturally sweet, can prepare the smoothie without any additional sweeteners.
• Adjust the amount of Sugar/Honey to suit your taste preference.

How to select the Fruit?

• Sundew melons should be slightly heavier than size.
• Choose a fruit that has a smooth, undamaged rind with a waxy outer texture.
• Avoid melons that are very soft or feel damp at the stem end.
• Smell your Sundew Melon. It should give off a strong & sweet aroma.
• Touch the Sundew Melon. It should slightly spring back when you press the blossom end (which is opposite the stem end).
• If the Sundew Melon isn't quite ripe yet, store it at room temperature. 
• Refrigerate it as soon as it ripens to avoid it from becoming overly ripe.
• After melon has been cut it should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days.

     In the process of making Ghee(clarifying Butter) the idea is to remove all water, buttermilk, sediment, salt and other impurities which cause Butter to darken & burn, making it susceptible to becoming rancid. It also expels air during the process and only the purest form of Oil(Ghee) remains. This is done by gently heating Butter. What we have to consider at this point is to leave Butter on a very low heat until all the bubbles subside and Butter is on the verge of caramelization. This makes the best Ghee. The clarification process/ghee making process is extensive, meticulous & should be done in a perfect manner. The resulting Ghee has a wonderful golden hue, with a perfect texture which we call as a grainy texture, manal-manala - like sand, with great aroma and taste.  Ghee has great cooking uses, innumerable health benefits and therapeutic values.

HOW TO MAKE GHEE - HOMEMADE GHEE

      At home, the Ghee making process starts right from boiling the milk.  Collect the Cream, when a whole batch is ready, I whip up the fresh cream, collect the coagulated Butter from the Buttermilk.  Store some Butter and the rest of  Butter is converted into Ghee. But the process can be made simpler if you have ready-made Butter with you.  Unsalted Butter has fewer impurities compared to Salted Butter.
     Butter is heated in a heavy bottomed pan over a low flame. I usually use a Brass Uruli/non-stick pan for the purpose. Initially, the butter melts and starts to froth.  The foam will rise atop as the milk solids separate. Some skim the foam which floats atop, but I just leave it as such. It gradually gets caramelized and starts to settle down at the bottom forming sediments. I add few sprigs of Curry Leaves and Drumstick Leaves at this stage. I have always seen my Mother and MIL do the same, but never knew the idea behind it. The idea of adding Curry Leaves and Drumstick Leaves during Ghee making process is that these substances have Anti-oxidant properties which will improve the shelf life, taste, aroma and also helps to get the perfect grainy texture which is a benchmark for Ghee. Two big Drumstick Trees in my backyard and a Curry Leaf Tree has always kept me with ready supply of the both whenever I needed. Some people add Fenugreek Seeds/Cumin Seeds/Betel Leaves while making Ghee.
     I do the whole process on the lowest flame stirring it at intervals, I do not allow it to darken or burn, which will totally ruin the taste of the Ghee. I switch off the flame when the Ghee turns into golden yellow in colour and the sediments are still yellow in colour(refer picture below).  The rest of the process gets completed with the remaining heat from the Utensil and the Liquid(Ghee). The temperature would be really hot.  So it is highly advisable to leave the utensil on the stove top(flames switched off) until it reaches a safe temperature to handle. Once the Ghee is cool enough, strain the impurities with a sieve or a clean muslin cloth. Store the Ghee in a clean and dry airtight bottles/jars.

INGREDIENTS

Butter
Curry Leaves/Drumstick Leaves

METHOD :

• In a heavy bottomed pan/vessel, heat the Butter on a very low flame.
• Initially, the butter melts and starts to froth.
• The foam will rise atop as the milk solids separate.
• You can skim the foam which floats atop, but I just leave it as such.
• It gradually gets caramelized and starts to settle down at the bottom forming sediments.
• Add few sprigs of Curry Leaves and Drumstick Leaves at this stage.
• Switch off the flame when the Ghee turns into golden yellow in colour and the sediments are still yellow in colour. 
• The rest of the process gets completed with the remaining heat from the Utensil and the Liquid(Ghee).
• Once the Ghee is cool enough, strain the impurities with a sieve or a clean muslin cloth. Store it in a clean and dry airtight bottle/jar.
• Can store in the refrigerator or at room temperature.

 

NOTES :

• The idea of adding Curry Leaves and Drumstick Leaves during Ghee making process will improve the shelf life, taste, aroma.
• It also helps to get the perfect grainy texture which is a benchmark for Ghee.
• Can also add Fenugreek Seeds/Cumin Seeds/Betel Leaves while making Ghee.
• Do the whole process on the lowest flame stirring it at intervals.
• Do not allow it to darken or burn, which will totally ruin the taste of the Ghee.
• Switch off the flame when the Ghee turns into golden yellow in colour.
• The rest of the process gets completed with the remaining heat from the Utensil and the Liquid(Ghee).
• The temperature would be really hot. 
• So it is highly advisable to leave the utensil on the stove top(flames switched off) until it reaches a safe temperature to handle.
• Store it in a clean and dry airtight bottle/jar.

RECIPES WITH HOMEMADE GHEE

For more Recipes with GHEE, Click here...

   Ghee is used extensively in Indian Cooking.  It is one of the best cooking Oil which can take a high cooking temperature without burning.  And least to mention the medicinal values and incredible health benefits it has and it is one fat extensively used in Ayurveda and Ayurvedic medicines. Cooking or eating a dish with a drizzle of Ghee adds a wonderful aroma and texture to the dish.

• Use it as cooking oil for high-heat cooking like stir-frying, sauteing or roasting.
• Spread it on your Bread, Chapatis, Rotis, Parathas, Naans, Kulchas etc.,
• Can use it while cooking Lentils/Dhals, which will antidote the dry and astringents qualities of the Dhals.
• Add a drizzle of ghee to steaming hot Rice and serve it along with Curry/Rasam/Veggie of your choice.
• Can use Ghee while tempering Sambar & Rasam.
• Ghee is widely used while preparing Indian Sweets.  Indian Sweets without Ghee?
• Traditional Indian Sweets like Akkaravadisal, Sarkkarai Pongal, Rava Kesari, Halwa, Ney Payasam, Ney Appam all have a good amount of Ghee which enhances the overall taste of the dishes.
• Can use it in recipes like Upma, Venpongal, Rava Kichadi, Sevai, Dhal Kichdi, Paruppu Sadham etc., & etc.,
• Drizzle Ghee while making Dosa, Adai, Uthappams etc.,
• Serve Idli & Sambar with a hearty drizzle of Ghee.
• Ghee is used while cooking Biriyanis, Pulaos, Ghee Rice etc.,
• Payasams, Pradhamans & Kheers also have a note of Ghee in it.
• Can use Ghee for making Cookies like Suji Biscuits. 
• Can try substituting Butter with Ghee for some recipes.

HOW TO STORE GHEE

 

• Since the milk solids have been removed, Ghee is shelf-stable at room temperature.
• Adding few sprigs of Curry Leaves and Drumstick Leaves during Ghee making process will improve the shelf life, taste, aroma and also helps to get the perfect grainy texture. 
• Drumstick Leaves & Curry Leaves have Anti-oxidant properties which will increase the shelf-life.
• As far as traditional concerns it is stored at room temperature( & not stored in refrigerators).
• Can store Ghee in your pantry and it should stay good for months.
• Use clean & dry airtight bottles/jars to store Ghee.
• Store it in a clean, dry place free from moisture.
• Moisture will spoil the Ghee.
• Use Clean, dry spoons while using ghee.
• Keep the jar tightly closed when not in use.
• If storing Ghee for a longer time, it is always advisable to store it in the refrigerator which will surely increase the shelf-life.
• Ghee tends to firm up in cooler temperatures.
• Do not melt the Ghee on a direct flame to soften it.
• Instead, leave it in a bowl of hot water for a few minutes to soften. 

HOW TO MAKE BUTTERMILK

      Let's talk about Buttermilk in Indian terms.  The thin milky substitute we get after removing Butter from the Milk/Cream/Curd is what we literally call as Buttermilk.  But in terms of Cuisine, it is cultured buttermilk, the ones you buy at stores are true cultured buttermilk, which would take about at least 10-12 hours to actively culture a Buttermilk from Milk.  It is thinner than Curd/Yogurt.  And what you need for the purpose is an active Buttermilk Culture(Stale Buttermilk). If you are churning out the butter from Milk/Cream the byproduct is thin Milk which has to be literally cultured using Stale Buttermilk, whereas if you churning out the Butter from Curd, then what we get is cultured Buttermilk as such.
     The Buttermilk which I make at home is a byproduct I get while making Homemade Butter.  The collected cream from the boiled milk is stored in the freezer until I get a whole lot good enough to make Butter at home.  Once I have a whole batch, I whip it up in my blender adding a little bit of ice-cold water to the cream.  Beating the blender in slow whipping mode and making sure that the blender doesn't heat up, I carefully whip the cream and cold water for few minutes until the Butter floats atop.

For more Recipes with BUTTERMILK, Click here...

BUTTER & BUTTERMILK

     Remove the Butter, and what remains is the Buttermilk.  It can be converted into true Buttermilk by various methods, just simply add acidic substances like Lemon Juice/Vinegar for instant Buttermilk, which would work best for baking or making pancakes etc.,  But the real taste, flavour and nutritional value is enhanced only if it is converted into a Buttermilk using cultured Curd/Yogurt/Cultured Buttermilk/Sour Cream.
     Buttermilk is a versatile ingredient and is used in various dishes for its taste & flavour.  Also, it helps to activate the Baking Soda/Soda-bi-carbonate while baking.  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.
     It is a common scenario in an Indian household to serve Buttermilk to guests.  Buttermilk would be stored in Big earthen pots which keeps it cool naturally, a yester-year refrigerator. It is an etiquette to serve at least a glass of Water to anybody who visits home in Indian culture, and they have taken it the next level by serving Buttermilk rather than Water.

     Lyrical from a Tamil Song which says they serve Buttermilk with love, instead of Water to quench your thirst. That is the kind of love these naive people hold and the aroma of this love & etiquette emanates throughout the soil(region).  It is a culture in South India to serve Buttermilk/Neer Mor to anybody who visits their home.  Then in India, most of the families reared Cows & Buffaloes and had a good supply of Milk and milk products readily available at home. Even in this varied current lifestyle most of the families follow the same etiquette with a style and tradition of their own.  Anyway, India is known for its hospitality after all.

HOW TO MAKE BUTTERMILK 

HOW TO MAKE BUTTERMILK

THE TRADITIONAL METHOD 

     The key ingredient to make Buttermilk is to have a starter or Buttermilk culture available. This can be easily acquired by purchasing Curd/Yogurt/Buttermilk/Sour cream from the store. Once you make your own Buttermilk from the instructions below, you can continue to make it by saving a little off from the previous batch, continuing this process for as long as you’d like to have homemade Buttermilk.

INGREDIENTS :

Milk - 1 Ltr
Stale Curd/Buttermilk - 1- 2 Tbspns

 

METHOD :

• Boil the Milk and allow it to cool.
• When the milk turns lukewarm, add 2 Tbspns of Stale Curd/Buttermilk and stir it well with a spoon or a spatula.
• Cover the bowl and leave it aside in a warm place.
• I usually leave it in the kitchen counter next to the gas stove for the required warmth.
• Leave it overnight for the Buttermilk to set or at least five to six hours undisturbed.
• The time totally depends on the climate.
• This type of cultured Buttermilk tends to be thicker depending on the type of milk used.
• Dilute and use it to suit your preference.
• Once the Buttermilk is set you can refrigerate it and use it for up to 3-4 days.

NOTES :

• Add the Stale Buttermilk/Curd to the Milk when it is lukewarm or at room temperature.
• The buttermilk you yield through this method would be thick, dilute to suit your preference.
• Store the Buttermilk in an Earthen Pot to keep it naturally cool or store it in a refrigerator.
• Serve Buttermilk Chilled.
• Spice it up with your choice of herbs & spices and convert it into Neer Mor/Sambaram/Masala Majjige/Chaas etc.,

THE QUICK METHOD 

HOW TO MAKE CURD/YOGURT - HOMEMADE CURD/YOGURT

     Making Curd/Yogurt is an easy process for most of us.  But many don't find themselves lucky in this process.  So, they buy Curd/Yogurt instead of making it at home. It’s just a simple task if done properly and like anything else, practice makes things perfect. It is a day to day process in most of the Indian households. Curd/Yogurt is used as such, mixed & eaten along with Rice or added into innumerable recipes, converted into tasty & rich dishes, curries, chutneys, desserts, snacks etc.,
     Curd or yogurt is an excellent probiotic and it is great for your digestive system. Curd/Yogurt is a  product of the lactic fermentation of milk. Curd has a smooth texture and refreshing taste.  It is loaded with Probiotics and is an excellent source of Vitamins and Minerals like Calcium, Phosphorus and Riboflavin.  However, preparing it at home is healthier, we know what goes into our stomach and above all, you get fresh & tasty Curd/Yogurt.
     We have always got fresh farm milk in India.  The Milkman with his big milk cans and his bicycle bell have always been our morning alarms. The first thing in the morning is to collect the Milk, boil it and then make Filter Coffee with fresh milk.  Good old days! When I was relocated to Malaysia.  I couldn't find fresh milk, only the processed ones were available in the supermarkets.  Some didn't suit our tastes.  Then tried using milk powders. By the time I found a suitable alternative, I had a lot of mishaps in making curd, least to mention even making Coffees & Teas turned out to be a disaster which was a simple task back in India. Learning to live in a new place took some time.
    But finally, I started making Curd/Yogurt with milk powders, Coffee & Teas with Sweetened Creamers. After quite a lot of trial & errors with most of the Milk Powders/homogenized Milk available in the market.  I finally got a brand which suited our taste and which yielded perfectly textured curd for our preference.  All through these years of our stay in Malaysia, I have been making Curd with Milk Powder/Homogenized Milk until 3 years back.  Since then, I started to get fresh cow milk from a nearby farm.  You may not know how much relieved and happy I was to get fresh Milk.  From then on, no looking back, I make my own homemade Curd, Paneer, Fresh Cream, Buttermilk, Butter, and Ghee(Clarified Butter), Khoya etc., at home.
     Here in Malaysia, many have asked me how I make Curd/Yogurt at home?  And one of my husband's colleagues asks this question, every time she comes home.  She says, she just couldn't get it right.  This post is for those who have trouble making curd and for the beginners.
     Curd/Yogurt has an esteemed place in Indian cuisine. No Indian meal is complete without curd and is one of the basic essentials in Indian Kitchen. Curd/Yogurt is such a versatile ingredient, there are innumerable recipes which incorporates Curd/Yogurt in Indian cuisine. Not a day goes without eating Curd at home.  Finishing off the meal with Curd Rice is a must for me and my husband. But it is for a year I am refrained from eating Curd due to my Ayurvedic treatment, which is one of the favourite food I miss a lot - Curd Rice. But of course, I have it as Buttermilk, which I am allowed to.
         There are various ways to make homemade Curd/Yogurt to ensure fresh, healthy and better consumption. Here are a few ways in which you can make homemade curd.

MAKING A STARTER FOR HOMEMADE CURD/YOGURT

     This is an age-old method followed in rural areas of South India. They make their own culture to use as a starter.  As an experimental method, I tried making in this manner just once to check if it really works. And yes it does, but the curd made using this method turned out to be slightly watery.  But this starter curd can be used to make thick and creamy curd.  The reason behind curdling of Milk is that the Calyx in Dry Red Chillies contains live Bacterium that aids the fermentation process. This method can be used when you have no Curd/Stale Curd to induce fermentation process.

INGREDIENTS :

Warm Milk - 1/2 Cup
Dry Red Chillies - 8-10 Stalks

METHOD :

• Bring Milk to a boil.
• Leave it aside to cool down.
• Let the Milk be lukewarm.
• Add 8 to 10 stalks of Dry Red Chillies for every 1/2 - 3/4 cup of the Milk.
• Leave this aside undisturbed in a warm place to set.

NOTES :

• It took 5 hours for the Curd to set. I live in a Tropical Climate.
• The time totally depends on the climate.
• Keep the bowl in a warm area without disturbing it.
• Leave it aside for at least five to six hours or overnight.
• The Curd made out of this method turns out to be watery.
• Can use as a Starter for making Curd, when you do not have any supply of Curd/Yogurt to make a whole batch of fresh homemade Curd.

 HOW TO MAKE CURD/YOGURT - HOMEMADE CURD/YOGURT

HOW TO MAKE CURD/YOGURT - HOMEMADE CURD/YOGURT

THE TRADITIONAL METHOD - WITH STARTER OR STALE CURD 

     The key ingredient to make Curd/Yogurt is to have a starter or Yogurt culture available. This can be easily acquired by purchasing Curd/Yogurt from the store. Once you make your own Curd/Yogurt from the instructions below, you can continue to make it by saving a little off from the previous batch, continuing this process for as long as you’d like to have homemade Curd/Yogurt.

INGREDIENTS:

Milk - 1/2 Ltr
Stale Curd - 1- 2 Tbspns

 

METHOD :

• Boil the Milk and allow it to cool.
• When the milk turns lukewarm, add 2 Tbspns of Stale Curd and stir it well with a spoon or a spatula.
• Cover the bowl and leave it aside in a warm place.
• I usually leave it in the kitchen counter next to the gas stove for the required warmth.
• Leave it overnight for the curd to set or at least five to six hours undisturbed.
• The time totally depends on the climate.
• Once the curd is set you can refrigerate it and use it for up to 3-4 days.

NOTES :

• Add the Stale Curd to the Milk when it is lukewarm or at room temperature.
• If you add the stale curd while the milk is hot, the milk would get curdled and turn watery.
• The Curd/Yogurt will not yield a perfectly smooth texture.

 

HOW TO MAKE CURD/YOGURT IN A MICROWAVE OVEN

METHOD :

• For a quicker setting of Curd, the microwave method proves to be quite handy.
• Boil half a litre of milk and cool it down until it is lukewarm.
• In a microwave-safe bowl, beat two spoons of curd.
• Pour the lukewarm milk to the beaten Curd and stir well.
• Microwave on high for two minutes and switch it off.
• Leave the bowl inside the microwave for three to four hours, for the Curd to set.

NOTES :

• The setting time depends on the quantity of milk.
• Can also boil the milk in the microwave and cool it before making the curd.   
• Use Microwave safe bowl for the purpose. 
• This method is useful when you are in short of time and also turns out to be helpful if you are living in a colder region.

 

HOW TO MAKE CURD/YOGURT WITH MILK POWDER

INGREDIENTS :

Milk Powder - 1 Cup
Water - 2 Cups
Stale Curd - 1- 2 Tbspns

 

METHOD :

• Thoroughly mix Milk Powder and Water.  There should be no lumps in the Milk.
• Boil the Milk and allow it to cool.
• When the milk turns lukewarm, add 2 Tbspns of Stale Curd and stir it well with a spoon or a spatula.
• Cover the bowl and leave it aside in a warm place.
• I usually leave it in the kitchen counter next to the gas stove for the required warmth.
• Leave it overnight for the curd to set or at least five to six hours undisturbed.
• The time totally depends on the climate.
• Once the curd is set you can refrigerate it and use it for up to 3-4 days.

NOTES :

• For thicker Curd/Yogurt add more Milk Powder.
• Mix Milk Powder with a little amount of water to make a paste without lumps.
• Then pour the rest of the Water and mix it thoroughly.
• Alternatively can pour boiling water to the Milk Powder and mix it.
• Add the Stale Curd to the Milk when it is luke warm or at room temperature.
• If you add the stale curd while the milk is hot, the milk would get curdled and turn watery.
• The Curd/Yogurt will not yield a perfectly smooth texture.

 

 

FOR PERFECT HOMEMADE CURD/YOGURT

For Thick Curd: Always use whole milk for the purpose. Diluted milk or low-fat milk will make the curd watery & would not yield thick & creamy Curd/Yogurt.

Sticky Curd: Some milk yields a sticky curd and using starters like Greek Yogurt might also result in the same.  If so try a different brand of milk or starter. I had this kind of problem for a long time while I was in India.  It was due to the Milk, the milkman was supplying then and hopelessly using the Stale Curd from the Sticky Curd resulted in repetitive Sticky Curd.  Tried a different batch of Curd, cultured afresh from Stale Curd(from my Mom) helped me solve the problem.

Amount of Starter :

     The amount of starter/stale curd required to make Curd/Yogurt depends upon the type of Milk used - Homogenized or Non-homogenized.

• Homogenized Milk requires more starter, (can use 2-3 Tbspns of stale curd) as the milk is processed and the particles in it are broken down to keep them apart which increases the shelf life.
• Non-Homogenized Milk needs less starter as they tend to set well faster, adding more starter to it will make the curd sour.
• Adjust the amount of starter accordingly.

Climate :

• During cold climates or winters - use more starter and keep it for a longer time to set.
• Whereas on warm and hot days use less amount of starters and adjust the time to set the curd, checking on it periodically.
• Longer setting time can make the curd sour in summer.
• Adjust the time and starter accordingly.

To keep the Curd Bowl Warm during winters or in Colder regions:

• Keep the bowl of milk in a Casserole or in a Polystyrene/Thermocol box.
• Wrap a Warm Towel/Blanket to the bowl and keep it in a warm place.
• Can place the bowl inside a big rice storage container.
• Alternatively, you can place the bowl in your Wheat Flour Jar/Rice Jar.  Keep the Jar covered.
• Place the Curd bowl carefully while keeping it inside the Wheat Flour Jar/Rice Jar.  If it spills the whole batch of Rice/Wheat would be spoiled.

FOR THICK & CREAMY HOMEMADE CURD/YOGURT

• Use a good quality of Milk - full cream milk yields thick, creamy Curd/Yogurt.
• Boil the Milk before making the Curd/Yogurt.  This is to ensure that the milk is not spoilt.
• When you add Stale Curd to activate the culture process, the Milk should not be hot.
• If the Milk is very hot the milk will immediately curdle and gets coagulated.  The Curd would turn out be watery and grainy textured.
• There will also be a lot of Whey in the Curd/Yogurt
• If the milk is very cold, it may take a long time to get set.
• The perfect way is to add Stale Curd to lukewarm milk.
• Thoroughly mix the Stale Curd uniformly into the Milk with a Spoon/Whisker.
• Adjust the setting time if you are living in a hot region or during summers.
• I usually use about 1-2 Tbspn of Stale Curd for 1/2 a litre of Milk.
• Adjust according to the quantity of homemade Curd/Yogurt you need to make.

 

STORAGE TIPS

• Once the curd is set, refrigerate the Curd/Yogurt.
• Stays good in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Do not leave unused Curd/Yogurt at room temperature for a longer time, this can make the Curd sour.

 

 HOMEMADE DAIRY PRODUCTS 

Curd - Converting the Milk into Curd.
Paneer - Curdle the Milk with an Acidic substance to make fresh Homemade Paneer.
Butter - Boil the Milk, cool it down, collect the Cream & Store it in Freezer until a whole lot is collected to make homemade Butter.
Fresh Cream - The Collected Cream from fresh milk can be whisked to make fresh Cream.

Buttermilk - I get a good supply of Buttermilk as a byproduct while making Butter at home.                
Ghee/Clarified Butter - Can use the homemade Butter, heat it, melt it & convert it into Ghee/Clarified Butter.

HOMEMADE CURD/YOGURT

HOMEMADE PANEER

HOMEMADE BUTTER

BUTTERMILK

HOMEMADE GHEE