CHAKKA KURU CHEERA THORAN

      Recently my Husband was speaking to his Mother, she was saying that she had cooked Chakka Kuru and Cheera Thoran.  She was selling off the recipe to him saying that it is one popular recipe in Kerala and how you need to slice the Jackfruit seeds for it etc., And as usual I knew my hubby is going to ask me for this recipe.  Luckily I had both the ingredients and the next day I went along to make this Thoran for the very first time.  Combination Thorans are quite prevalent in Kerala, and I was even amused by the combination of Red Bean & Plantain Flower Thoran, Green bean & Plantain Stem Thorans they used to serve at Shreedhareeyam Ayurvedic hospital. 

      This Thoran recipe is a simple Kerala Style stir-fry prepared with finely chopped Amaranth Leaves or Spinach & along with it goes thinly sliced Jackfruit Seeds alias Chakka Kuru.  This thoran is seasoned with mild spices and condiments and finally topped up with few spoons of grated coconut. Chakka Kuru and Cheera Thoran required two types of cooking, one for the Jackfruit Seeds, which has to be peeled, washed and cut into thin slices.  Jackfruit seeds need some extra cooking time whereas Amaranth Leaves can be cooked within minutes.  So I pre-cooked the Jackfruit seeds in a Pressure cooker for a whistle and then did the tempering, added the seasoning and cooked finely chopped Amaranth Leaves, finally I toss it up with pre-cooked Jackfruit seeds and finished cooking the Thoran with a few teaspoons of freshly grated coconuts.

     Though Onam seasons are not for Jackfruits, if you have some leftoverJackfruit seeds from last summer, then this Thoran is a wonderful add-on to your Sadhya Vattom.  Thoran/Upperi is a predominant Sadhya Item served along with various other dishes in a Kerala Sadhya(Banquet). This quick & easy Chakka Kuru and Cheera Thoran can easily be squeezed into your long list of Sadhya items.

Few other Thoran/Upperi which can be served in a Sadhya or a simple Lunch Menu:

• Cabbage Thoran
• Cabbage, Carrot & Beans Thoran
• Achinga Payar/Long Beans Thoran 
• Cheera/Spinach Thoran 
• Beetroot Thoran/Poriyal 
• Vendakka/Okra Thoran
• Pavakka/Bitter Gourd Thoran
• Cheru Payar Parippu/Yellow Moong Thoran
• Cheru Payar/Green Moong Thoran
• Kovakka/Ivy Gourd Thoran
• Padavalanga/Snake Gourd Thoran 
• Mathanga/Yellow Pumpkin Thoran 
• Vazhakoombu/Plantain Flower Thoran 
• Chena Thoran/Chena Upperi 
• Raw Papaya Thoran/Pappanga Thoran
  

For more  SADHYA Recipes, click here...


Cuisine - Kerala(South India)
Course - Side Dish
Spice Level - Low - Moderate
Difficulty - Easy
Serves - 4
Author - SM

Preparation Time - 25 -30 Minutes
Cooking Time - 15 - 20 Minutes

HOW TO COOK CHAKKA KURU CHEERA THORAN

 

CHAKKA KURU CHEERA THORAN

INGREDIENTS:

To Cook the Jackfruit Seeds:

Jackfruit Seeds(Chakka Kuru) - 1 Cup
Turmeric Powder - 1/4 Tspn
Salt - To Taste
Sugar - a Pinch

For Chakka Kuru Cheera Thoran:

Amaranth Leaves - 2 Cups
Shallots - 4-5 Nos.
Garlic - 1-2 Cloves
Green Chillies - 2 Nos.
Coconut - 2-3 Tbspn
Salt - To Taste
Sugar - a Pinch

For Tempering:

Mustard Seeds - 1 Tspn
Curry Leaves - 1 Sprig
Cumin Seeds - a Pinch.
Coconut Oil - 1 Tbspn.

 

METHOD:

To Cook the Jackfruit Seeds:

• Peel off the white shell from the Jackfruit Seeds.
• Soak the Jackfruit Seeds in Water for at least 3-4 hours or overnight.
• Scrape out the brown skin from the Seeds(Soaking helps you to scrape out the skin easily)
• Cut the Seeds into small pieces, wash and keep it aside.
• Add Turmeric Powder to the Jackfruit Seeds, along with a dash of Salt and a pinch of Sugar.
• Cook this along with 1/2 Cup of Water until the Seeds turn soft.
• Alternatively, can cook the above ingredients in a Pressure Cooker for a whistle.
• Do not overcook the Jack fruit Seeds. 
  

For Chakka Kuru Cheera Thoran: 

CHAKKA KURU CHEERA THORAN

• Chop off the Roots from the Stalks.
• Clean and wash the Amaranth Leaves through running water for at least 3-4 times
• Drain the washed Amaranth Leaves in a colander and keep it aside.
• Finely chop the Amaranth Leaves and keep it aside.
• Finely chop Shallots, Green Chillies & Garlic.
• Heat Oil in a pan, splutter Mustard Seeds and Curry leaves.
• Add finely chopped Shallots, Green Chillies, Garlic and sauté until shallots turn translucent.
• Now add a pinch of Cumin seeds, followed with finely chopped Amaranth Leaves.
• Sprinkle Salt & Sugar and give a quick stir.
• Cover and cook briefly.
• Add in grated coconut and mix well.
• Cook Cheera Thoran/Spinach Stir Fry a while on a low flame.
• Finally, add pre-cooked Jackfruit seeds and give a quick stir. 
• Serve Chakka Kuru Cheera Thoran hot with steamed White Rice/Kerala Rose Matta Rice.
• Can be served along with any Curry and Rice, it goes well as a side dish with Moru Curry/Moru Kachiyathu.
• Can serve this Raw Papaya Thoran as one side dish in the long list of Sadhya Items or along with Kanji(Rice Porridge)/Paal Kanji.
  

For more RECIPES WITH JACK FRUIT, Click here... 

NOTES:

• Can add a pinch of Turmeric to the Cheera Thoran, if preferred.
• Some do not add Onions & Garlic while cooking for a Sadhya.
• Adding Garlic & Cumin Seeds are truly optional.
• I have used Coconut Oil in the recipe, can use any other vegetable oil. 
  

 

NENDHRA PAZHAM GHEE ROAST

     Today is Atham, the beginning of Onam Season, "Atham Pathu Onam," in another ten days comes the grand festival Onam, the harvest festival of Kerala.  To commemorate the day, let me present you with a simple Kerala Palaharam prepared with Nendhra Pazham, a Banana, so ubiquitous in God's Own Country - Kerala.

     If one simple snack has loads of nostalgic memories, then this Nendhra Pazham Ghee Roast is one such dish.  A quick & easy Nadan Palaharam, made with Nendhra Pazham, sautéed in Ghee until the Sugar gets caramelized and coats each slice of Nendhra Pazham. It is nothing but Caramelized Bananas roasted in Ghee.  This recipe is usually made with Nendhra Pazham.  But can use any other slightly firm variety of Banana, if you cannot get hold of Nendhra Pazham.

      I had been planning ever since to post this favourite recipe of mine.  But like many other favourites still was lying in my to-write list.  Whenever I make this snack, I usually wouldn't find time to click a picture. So it never made it to my blog until today.  And always have thought this to be a simple snack, a common household dish made in most of the Kitchens.  But it happened to be not a well known or popular snack after all.  For me, it is a comfort food and a dish I relinquish.

 This was one snack my Mom frequents at home, and I am like head over heels for it.  But after getting married, my hubby or his family never liked this.  So I never make this snack at home.  Lately my daughter stayed in India for a few months for her studies and that is when she got into a liking for this snack, as usual the credit goes to my Mom.  

NENDHRA PAZHAM GHEE ROAST

 

     Few days back I made Paal Kanji for Lunch, and I was saying her that I love to combine it up with Nendhra Pazham Ghee Roast.  Another nostalgia of Lunch Box scenario.  I love this snack and usually like to pair it up with Paal Kanji.  And it was also, one combo I used to carry in my Tiffin Box during my school days.  Luckily one ripe Nendhra Pazham was lying out with all inviting notion that, she immediately made a batch with half of the Banana.  It was late night and I had already finished my dinner.  So I was in no mood to eat it.  Next day, with all means & thoughts all set over this Pazham Ghee Roast, I made it first thing in the morning. The overripe Banana was so sweet on its own and just melted away to the heat when sautéed in Ghee.  

    I prefer making this Palaharam with Ripe or over ripe Bananas, but it tends to lose its  shape when sautéed in ghee.  If you prefer a bit still firm ripe Bananas, then it tends to hold the round shape.  Whatsoever the taste of this simple but exquisite Nadan Palaharam is decadent to the core.  Simply eat it up as a snack or pair it up Puttu, Vellayappam, Upma or Paal Kanji.  I feel the combination of Nendhra Pazham Ghee Roast and Paal Kanji as a Keralite delight - a simple replica of Thai Mango Sticky Rice in a typical Kerala Nadan Style. And all the more it is a healthy snacking option and also good for toddlers.

For more KERALA PALAHARAM RECIPES, Click here... 

Cuisine - Kerala
Recipe Type - Nadan Palaharm
Difficulty - Easy
Author - SM

Preparation Time - 5 Minutes
Cooking Time - 10 -15 Minutes

For more RECIPES WITH NENDHRA PAZHAM, Click here...

HOW TO COOK NENDHRA PAZHAM GHEE ROAST - CARAMELIZED GHEE ROASTED BANANAS

 

NENDHRA PAZHAM GHEE ROAST

INGREDIENTS:

Nendhra Pazham  - 1 No.(big)
Ghee - 2-3 Tablespoons
Sugar - 2-3 Tablespoons

 

METHOD:

• Wash, Peel and slice the Nendhra Pazham into rounds.
• Heat Ghee in a Pan.
• Gently add the sliced Bananas and sauté it on a very low flame for a few minutes.
• After a few minutes, flip each slice and sauté it on a low flame for a few more minutes. 
• Once the Banana Slices are half cooked, sprinkle the Sugar over the Banana slices.
• Gently toss it.
• Continue to cook the Banana slices until the Sugar melts and slightly caramelizes.
• Banana Slices would also get slightly fried in Ghee.
• Cook until the Banana Slices turn into golden brown.  
• If you prefer slightly crispier texture and a dark brown colour, cook for a few more minutes.
• Serve Nendhra Pazham Ghee Roast hot or at room temperature.
• Nendhra Pazham Ghee Roast can be served as a snack or for breakfast.
• It pairs well with Puttu, Vellayappam, Upma and my personal favourite is to combine it up with Paal Kanji.

NENDHRA PAZHAM GHEE ROAST

NOTES:

• The diameter of the Nendhra Pazham was big.  So I have cut it into semicircles.
• Adjust the thickness of the Slices to suit along with the texture preference.
• I have used overripe Bananas in the recipe, so I have used just 2 tablespoons of Sugar.  Adjust accordingly.
• If you do not prefer White Sugar, substitute it with Cane Sugar or Brown Sugar.
  
• If you do not prefer Ghee, can substitute it with Coconut Oil.

FRESH ORANGE JUICE

     Today is a special day, I am writing my 700th Blog Post and today happens to be my Son's Birthday.  Five and a half years of blogging and I have finished writing 700 Posts/recipes in my Blog.  Wanted to commemorate the milestone.

     Thinking about the number of posts I have written so far.  Most of the recipes in Essence of Life - Food, are related to memories, tastes and occasions.  When I started the blog, I was even wondering about how long I can keep afresh with the content I have.  The number of frequented recipes, family favourites, new trials & experiments were all in my mind, but I still remember how I felt during the initial days about which recipe to write.  It was like feeding the beast, my brain child.  Now, after five long years of blogging and writing 700 recipes on my blog, I feel I still have quite a number of frequented & favourite recipes missing from the blog.  And least to mention the time, effort and passion it takes to keep up the spirit.

      I wish I could read all the books I want to read and write all the recipes in my mind - may be, a lifetime is not enough. I may not be able to finish off the task wholeheartedly.  But it has been an amazing journey overall, and I am thankful to all who have come across my blog, took time to read, try my recipes, and I am overwhelmed by a few readers who send pictures of the recipes they have tried from my blog.  People around me, who knows me or even new acquaintances have started to relate to me as a Food Blogger.  Simple comments like, You have a wonderful Blog out there, the photographs are good, the way you write is amazing etc., & etc., thanks for noticing and encouraging. 

     Until recently, I was even reluctant to say that I am a Food Blogger, but now when somebody asks, I say, "I am a Food Blogger."  And the questions that follow sometimes cringe me (when it comes to how much you earn out of it?), but this brain child of mine is a product of passion & my hobby.  So I enjoy doing it, and I am sure it has turned into an addiction.  So once again, thank you all for being my readers and motivating me.

 

FRESH ORANGE JUICE

 

     700th Post on a special day.  But a simple recipe - Fresh Orange Juice - my all-time favourite.  What's about writing a recipe on Orange Juice.  But I thought of writing about it because, sometimes, a fresh home-made Orange Juice can turn out too tasty or nasty.  The bitter taste it leaves into the Juice can spoil the whole new refreshing feel of an Orange Juice.  And this has happened to me during my college days, that's my initial days of cooking.  Peeling off an Orange and just dumping it into the Mixer grinder, straining off and then there you go with an Orange Juice.  The preconception missed to the core.  It turned out to be bitter.  The white pith and the seeds make Orange Juice Bitter was a hard revelation.  Then I started peeling off all the unwanted parts, I used ONLY THE ARILS for making a fresh Orange Juice.  Years after this, still when it comes to making fresh orange juice, I do it meticulously.  Depending upon the variety of Orange I am using, I choose the method to squeeze out fresh Orange Juice.

      So, here you go, Orange juice recipe with 3 easy juicing methods. There is nothing quite refreshing like a glass of freshly squeezed home-made orange juice. Bright and sweet with just the perfect amount of acidity; a glass of orange juice is refreshing, rejuvenating and loaded with vitamin C, a natural Immune booster.  Oranges are loaded with vitamins and minerals, it helps to improve immunity naturally. Home-made fruit juices if consumed in moderation are healthy.  Use them Diluted or Undiluted, sweeten it if you prefer, and there you have a glass of fresh home-made Orange Juice without any additives or artificial colouring.

What type of oranges are best for Orange Juice?

 

ORANGE

      When deciding what type of oranges to use for making orange juice, you should select the fruit that will yield the most juice. I personally like Valencia oranges for the very best juice, the next variety which I like are navel oranges. Easy when it comes to cleaning, cut the oranges into two, just slice off the rind & the white segments and mostly this variety has very less or no seeds. I grind them in my mixer grinder juicer jar with a strainer attached to it.   Next when it comes to Orange varieties like Clementines and Tangerines you will get a sweeter beverage. I juice it with a hand Manual Juicer/Squeezer for making Orange Juices with these varieties. 

     You can get easy with whatever oranges that you happen to have on hand, but keep in mind that a fresh orange will be the juiciest and the sweetness depends on the variety of the fruit you are using.

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

Recipe Type - Drink
Difficulty - Medium
Serves - 1-2
Author - SM  

Preparation Time - 25 -30 Minutes

 

HOW TO MAKE FRESH ORANGE JUICE

FRESH ORANGE JUICE

 

INGREDIENTS:

Oranges - 4 Nos.
Sugar/Honey - 1 Tablespoon (optional)
Water -1/ 2 - 1 Cup

Add-ons (If preferred) :

Mint Leaves/Basil - a Few

METHOD:

     Depending on the type of Kitchen equipment you own, you can make Orange juice in a number of ways.  I use a simple blender (Indian Mixer-grinder) which has a Juicer Jar with fitted strainer in it, which makes my work easier.  You can even simply squeeze out the Orange or use a Citrus Juicer.  But the total concept of juicing fresh Oranges is to extract maximum juice out of it. No wastages whatsoever, trying to make the juice without any bitterness which is a hit or miss, when it comes to certain Orange varieties.

FRESH ORANGE JUICE

 

Method 1 – Manual Juicing/Squeezing:

     This method requires no special equipment for the purpose.  An age-old method and the simplest Juicing techniques of all time.  Oranges with thinner skin like Tangerines and Clementines suit well for this method. Oranges with thin-skins can simply be squeezed without expressing too much of the bitter oils contained in the skins.  Note that it is hard to juice a lot of oranges this way, and some amount of pulp remains in the fruit.

But first,

• Rinse the fruit well under running water and pat dry them with clean kitchen towels. 
• Cut the fruit into 2 parts.
• Remove the seeds with the help of a knife.
• Squeeze the halved oranges over a glass, to extract the juice. 
• Simply remove any seeds left in the juice. 
• Dilute or use as it is.  Can add any sweetener of your choice, if preferred.
  

NOTE:

• This method works for Fresh thin-skinned Oranges.

Method 2 – Orange Juice with a Citrus Juicer

This is probably the most obvious way to juice oranges. With either a handheld juicer or an electric model, this method is quite effective. Simple wooden citrus reamers work just fine too.

• Rinse the fruit well under running water and pat dry them with clean kitchen towels. 
• Cut the fruit into 2 parts.
• Remove the seeds with the help of a knife.
• Gently press the cut oranges onto a circulating reamer and squeeze out the juice by simply rotating the Orange halves through the ream.
• If you are using an electric Citrus Juicer, the job gets easier.
  
• Strain or simply remove any seeds left in the juice. 
• Dilute or use as it is.  Can add any sweetener of your choice, if preferred.
  

 

NOTE:

• Citrus Juicer yields a good amount of juice with less effort.

 

FRESH ORANGE JUICE

 

Method 3 – Orange Juice in a Blender

     One best way to make fresh Orange Juice is using a Blender.  This seems to be a great option because this method leaves you with very less wastage and more juice.  But you have to be very careful to remove all the white segments and seeds before adding the Peels into the blender.  Otherwise, the Orange Juice can turn out to be bitter.

• Rinse the fruit well under running water and pat dry them with clean kitchen towels. 
• Peel the Orange.
• Remove the white pith or white membrane. Orange pith is nutritious and is a rich source of fibre, however it imparts a bitter taste, so I try to remove as much as possible.
• Cut the fruit into 2 parts.
• Then, remove the seeds with the help of a knife.
• Take the Orange pulp and discard the rinds and linings.
• Add Orange pulp along with some water into a blender.
• Blend until all the Orange pulp is well blended.
• Pour the Orange Juice through a strainer. 
• I use my juicer jar (which came along with my blender) for the purpose, which has a strainer within, which makes the process easier.
• Collect the strained Orange Juice in a bowl. 
• Add Honey/Sugar to sweeten up the Juice.
• Pour it into a tall glass and serve the Orange Juice chilled or at room temperature.
• Muddle a few Mint Leaves and pour chilled Orange Juice over it for a mint flavoured Orange Juice.

 

 NOTES:

• I have used 4 Navel Oranges and I got nearly 3-4 medium-sized glasses of Orange Juice out of it.
• I added very little water while blending the Orange Pulps.
  
• Adding Sweeteners to the drink is purely optional.
  
• Adding Mint Leaves/Basil Leaves to the juice can give you an extra note of taste and flavour to Orange Juice. But it is purely optional.

 

HOW TO STORE FRESH HOME-MADE ORANGE JUICE?

• It is best enjoyed shortly after it is made. 
• However, you can keep it in your refrigerator for 2–3 days in a glass bottle or jar.  Keep it covered.
• Freshly extracted Orange Juice (without added sweeteners) can be stored in the refrigerator for about 2 days. 
• Do not dilute it with water if you're storing it.
  

 

 

LIQUID PARATHA

    A recently popularized recipe in the name of Paratha!!!  Liquid Paratha or a Paratha with Liquid Dough(Batter) it states.  As naturally as it is my very mind announced it cannot be Paratha in any terms.  How can a liquid dough... no batter it is, can make a literal Paratha?!!!  This newly found recipe is sweeping the social media and has got into a high profile recently.

    Though I am sceptical when it comes to such recipes, I wanted to give a try knowing deep within that it could never be like a PARATHA, may be something between Cheela or our very own Gothambu(Wheat Flour) Dosa.  But nothing wrong giving a try.  If at all, if it turns out to be like Paratha?  As quizzical as it is before making it... Would it by any chance, Puff up like a Paratha, as they show in the videos?  All these inquisitive questions fuelled up my idea to give it a try. 

    As mentioned in the recipe, mixed up the so-called Dough... I will say it as batter... Added some finely chopped Spring Onions, Kalonji, Turmeric Powder, a bit of Red Chilli Powder and Salt.  And even I struck to the given measurement of water for the Liquid Paratha Batter.  Rested the batter for about 15-20 minutes, because I was busy making normal Parathas, if at all, this recipe turned out to be a flop.

    Finished the batch of normal Parathas, then sceptically poured the Batter into the Chapati Griddle, waited for a while, drizzled a few drops of oil, flipped it out and waited and waited and waited for it to puff up like a paratha... it did... but it took some time for the process.  Making a Paratha out of this Batter is slightly time-consuming when it comes to the cooking process.  The final product was more or less like a Paratha.  And my humble *WARNING - EAT IT RIGHT AWAY, otherwise it is going to be like a Cheela/Gothambu Dosa. 

Anyway there was no compromise when it came to the taste of this so-called Paratha.  So, if you are feeling too lazy to knead a dough for Paratha, some days are like that. Or if you are in need of a quick fix recipe & if you can compromise for a real Paratha(Parathas are Parathas) then this Liquid Paratha would turn out to be handy. So no harm in trying out a new recipe which is Quick,  Easy, Tasty & Healthy too... but strictly not sticking on to the norms of a Classic Paratha.  Liquid Paratha is an utter compromising recipe... But still I would vote for it, and I am sure to make it again and again.  

 

For more INDIAN BREADS, Click here...

Cuisine - North Indian
Course - Main Course
Difficulty - Easy
Spice Level - Low- Medium
Yields - 5  Parathas
Author - SM

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

HOW TO MAKE PARATHA WITH LIQUID DOUGH/LIQUID PARATHA

LIQUID PARATHA

INGREDIENTS:

For Paratha with Liquid Dough:

Wheat Flour - 1 Cup
Garlic - 1 Tablespoon
Spring Onions - a few stalks
Turmeric Powder - 1/2 Teaspoon
Red Chilli Powder - 1 Teaspoon
Kalonji(Nigella Seeds) - 1 Teaspoon
Salt - To Taste
Water - 2 Cups
Melted Butter - 1 Tablespoon 

 

For Cooking Liquid Paratha: 

Oil - a few Teaspoons

 

METHOD: 

For Paratha with Liquid Dough:

• Take a wide bowl big enough to hold all the ingredients.
• Finely mince the Garlic Pods & Spring Onions and keep it aside.
  
• First, mix the Wheat Flour and the rest of the dry ingredients, along with finely chopped Garlic and spring Onions.
  
• Then slowly pour in 1 Cup of Water and gently stir it with a whisk.
• Gradually pour in another Cup of Water and mix well until the ingredients are well incorporated and there are no lumps.
• Add in the melted butter and give a final whisk.
• The Liquid Batter should have a consistency similar to Dosa/Cheela Batter.
  
• Leave the Liquid Paratha Batter aside for about 10-15 Minutes.

LIQUID PARATHA

COOKING THE LIQUID PARATHAS:

• Heat a Tava/Griddle on a high flame.
• When the Tava/Griddle turns hot, lower the flame and gently pour in a ladle of Liquid Paratha Batter.
  
• Wait for the colour to change slightly.
• Drizzle a teaspoon of Oil.
  
• Now gently flip it up.  You may need to do this 3-4 times.
• Cook, flip... Cook, flip... Cook, flip, and slowly it will start to Puff up.
• Cook on a very low flame until the Liquid Parathas Puff up.
• Make sure that it is cooked through with brown crispy spots.
• Do not cook Liquid Parathas on high flame or allow it to burn.
• Once cooked, remove the Liquid Parathas from the Tava/Griddle.
• Place it on a plate or in a Casserole.
• Stack up the Liquid Parathas one over the other
• Cover it up with the kitchen towel.
• Just before serving, smear Oil/Butter/Ghee over the Liquid Parathas(optional).
• Serve Liquid Parathas hot with your choice of Vegetarian/Non-vegetarian Side Dishes.
• Goes well with Raithas or Pickles too.

NOTES:

• Some Wheat Flour may require a bit more or less Water measurement, Adjust accordingly.
• I have added  Spring Onions & Garlic in this Liquid Paratha recipe.
• Can add Mint or Coriander Leaves, or use any other herbs of your choice.
• Some recipes even call for adding Garam Masala/Chaat Masala/Cumin Powder etc.,  
• Try new versions of Liquid Paratha recipes with different add-ons.
  
• Do not overheat the Tava/Griddle while cooking the Liquid Parathas.
• If adding Oil while cooking Liquid Parathas do not overheat the Tava/Griddle until smoke forms.
• There will be condensation underneath each cooked Liquid Parathas, Kitchen Towels absorb the moisture and prevent Parathas getting soggy.
• Reverse the stack after piling up the Liquid Parathas.
• If serving later, store them in an insulated casserole lined with a kitchen towel to absorb the condensation.
• But I suggest EAT IT RIGHT AWAY, otherwise it is going to be like a Cheela/Gothambu Dosa.
  

LYCHEE PUDDING

      What would you do when you land up with a lot of fresh Lychees, devour the fresh juicy fruit as fresh as it is.  And as the days go by and a few batches still lying out in the refrigerator staring at me with wide red-eyes, the never ending plan of converting it into some recipe or the other, pops into my head.  Pudding?!!! Sorbet?!!! Or try a Rose & Lychee flavoured cake?!!!  Or go to the extent of converting it into Lychee Syrup??? Finally deciding to cook up an Old-fashioned Lychee Pudding made with puréed fresh Lychee, Gelatin and full cream Milk.  Can use Coconut Cream and Coconut Milk if you prefer a total Vegan version of Lychee Pudding.  This is a perfect dessert as it is rich, creamy and delicious. 

    The first time I tasted Lychee was during our first trip to Thailand in 2009.  Then it happened to be their National Tourism Week, and they handed a big packet of fresh Lychees to each passenger landing up at Swarnabhoomi International Airport at Bangkok.  We had all together 4 big packets of Lychees.  Though we had them in our hands, we were all busy getting our Entry Visa done and waiting for the Taxi.  Suddenly, an old lady pulled my hand. Alarmed and shocked at the same time, I turned to her... There beside me was a pleasant looking Old Lady, with a pleasant smile & beaming with pride, she said these Lychees are from Chiang Mai, enjoy them!!! Me with my wide smile thanked her and said I will surely eat them right away.  To the word, we gobbled up a whole packet of Lychees within no time.  They were so fresh, tasty, juicy and the Lychee flavour (my first acquaintance). Went back to the counter and got hold of two more packets. I still remember the day with all those evening twilight in Bangkok Airport waiting for our taxi to Pattaya, fresh Lychee and the sweet old lady. The whole stay I stored the Lychee in the hotel room refrigerator and had it heartily.  Even I bought back home a packet of Lychees, which we couldn't finish off. The reminiscence of these anecdotes, travel with me even after all these years, and I still relate Lychees to our trip to Thailand.

    This Lychee Pudding is truly a Tropical dish with a wonderful flavour of a Tropical fruit - Lychee.  Lychee Pudding recipe makes a rich, cool Lychee-flavoured dessert that comes together within minutes! Simply cook the pudding, chill it in the refrigerator until firm, and unmould for an elegant, sweet ending to any meal. For this Lychee Pudding, I have used freshly puréed Lychee & full cream milk with a few freshly sliced Lychee, which gives the needed texture to the Pudding.

     This is a simple Dessert recipe which can be incorporated into your Party menu within no time.  Also, this Lychee Pudding wasn't overly Sweet. Garnish the Lychee Pudding with fresh Lychee Slices or for a much-flavoured version serve it with a few Rose Petals. For an extravagant and rich dessert, serve this simple Lychee Pudding with Whipped Cream.  

 
Recipe Type - Pudding, Dessert
Difficulty - Easy
Serves - 4- 6
Author - SM

Preparation Time - 10 -15 Minutes
Cooking Time - 10 -15 Minutes
Setting Time - 4 - 5 Hours

HOW TO MAKE LYCHEE PUDDING

LYCHEE PUDDING

 

INGREDIENTS:

Fresh Lychee Purée- 3/4 Cup
Water - 1/2 Cup
Gelatin- 1 Teaspoon
Sugar - 1/4 cup
Full Cream Milk - 2 Cups (Thick)
Vanilla Essence - 1/2 Teaspoon
Corn Flour - 2 Teaspoon
Fresh Lychee Slices - a Few

METHOD:

• Purée the Lychee and keep it aside.
• Cut a few Lychees into small pieces and keep it aside.
• Boil 1/2 Cup of Water, add the Gelatin Powder and boil it on a low flame until well combined. Keep it aside.
• Mix Corn Flour along with few teaspoons of cold water/cold milk without any lumps and keep it aside.
• Pour in the Lychee purée & Milk in a wide bowl and boil it on a low flame stirring continuously for few minutes.
• Add Sugar to the above mix and cook on a low flame until Sugar dissolves.
• Add the dissolved Gelatin mix and cook for another few minutes, stirring continuously.
• Stir the ingredients well while you cook the mixture.
• This is to ensure that no lumps are formed in the Pudding.
• Pour in the Vanilla Extract(Optional) to the above mixture and mix well.
• Pour in the Corn Flour mixture and cook on a low flame, stirring continuously.
• Add in the freshly sliced Lychees and give a quick stir. 
• Cook the Lychee Pudding on a low flame, stirring continuously, for a few more minutes.
  
• Cook until the mixture thickens and slightly sticks to the ladle.
• Switch off the flame.
• Allow the Lychee Pudding to cool down.
• Pour it into the Pudding mould or any other serving bowl of your choice.
• Refrigerate the Lychee Pudding for about 4-5 Hours, or until you serve the dish.
• Serve the Lychee Pudding chilled.
• If you need to unmould, run a thin knife around the edge. Invert mould (or moulds) onto a serving plate. 

LYCHEE PUDDING

 

NOTES:

• I have used full cream Milk in this recipe.
• Can substitute Fresh Cream with Coconut Cream for a dairy free Lychee Pudding Recipe.
• Can substitute Gelatin with China Grass.
• I have used 1/4 Cup of Sugar in the recipe, adjust to suit your taste preference.
• Can use Vanilla Extract/Rum to flavour the dessert.
• Soft and tender fresh Lychee Slices tastes great when garnished in this Lychee Pudding.

JEERA RICE

    Jeera Rice - is one of the simplest of all flavoured rice which can be cooked up within minutes. A perfect rice dish which serves best to be served for an elaborate meal or as a simple lunch.  Jeera Rice can be easily sneaked in for a Party Menu when you need to serve something as a Vegetarian Option.  This recipe needs very fewer ingredients & less cooking time.

    This is a Cumin flavoured  Rice. You would just need a good quality Basmati Rice for a perfect Jeera Rice.  Then, when it comes to spices all you need is Cumin Seeds, Bay Leaves, Cinnamon, Cardamom & Mace and a little Ghee/Butter. Simple ingredients and an easy recipe, but the taste and aroma of this Rice is amazing, appetizing and all the more satiating.

Jeera Rice pairs well with

• Moong Dhal Fry
• Chana Masala
• Paneer Matar Masala
• Dahiwala Aloo
  
• Zafrani Chicken Korma
  
• Chicken Tikka Masala
  
• Mutton Rogan Josh
• Lucknowi Lamb Korma
• Nawabi Egg Korma
• Kadai Egg Masala
  

Cuisine - North India
Course - Main
Spice Level  - Low
Difficulty - Easy
Serves - 3- 4
Author - SM

Preparation Time - 5-10 Minutes
Soaking Time - 15 - 20 Minutes.
Cooking Time - 20 - 30 Minutes

HOW TO COOK JEERA RICE 

JEERA RICE

 Jeera Rice can be prepared in two ways.  

METHOD 1:

    The first method which I commonly use while make Jeera Rice is cooking the Rice with spices first. Then tempering the Rice with Cumin/Jeera & green chillies and then garnishing the Jeera Rice with coriander leaves to finish of the dish. This is the most common method and this is how it is prepared in restaurants. In this method, the Rice is cooked al dente and then the excess water is drained off. So Rice Water Ratio is not a concern in this method.

INGREDIENTS:

To Cook Basmati Rice:

Basmati Rice - 2 Cups
Cinnamon(1" Stick) - 1 No.
Cloves - 2-3 Nos.
Green Cardamoms - 3 Pods
Black Cardamom - 1 No.
Mace - a small strand
Salt - To Taste
Water - as required 

 

For Tempering:

Ghee - 3 Tbspns 
Cumin Seeds(Jeera) - 2 Tspn
Green Chillies 4-5 Nos.
Coriander Leaves - Few

METHOD:

To Cook Basmati Rice:

• Wash the Basmati rice until the water runs clear.
• Soak the rice for 20 minutes.
• Once soaked, drain and discard the water.
• Drain it through a fine meshed colander and keep it aside.
  
• Boil the water and add all the spices mentioned under for "To Cook Basmati Rice." 
• Let the Vessel be big enough to hold both Rice & water.
  
• Drain the soaked Rice.
• Carefully add Soaked Rice along with a dash of Salt into the boiling Water.
• Cook until the Rice is done.
• Drain the excess water from the cooked rice, pouring it out into a colander.

For Jeera Rice:

• Heat 2 tablespoons of Ghee in a pan & splutter Cumin Seeds on a very low flame.
• Care should be taken not to burn the Cumin Seeds, which will totally spoil the taste of Jeera Rice.
• Add finely chopped Green Chillies to the above and sauté it for a while.
  
• Now add the cooked Basmati rice and gently mix it.
  
• Fry this for about 5-7 minutes on a very low flame.
• Add another tablespoon of Ghee to the Jeera Rice and fluff  it up.
• Garnish it with finely chopped Coriander Leaves.
• Serve Jeera Rice with preferred vegetarian or non-vegetarian curries of your choice.

 

METHOD 2(ONE POT METHOD):

JEERA RICE

 

INGREDIENTS:

For Jeera Rice:

Ghee - 3 Tbspns
Cumin Seeds - 2 Tspns
Cinnamon(1" Stick) - 1 No.
Cloves - 2-3 Nos.
Green Cardamoms - 3 Pods
Black Cardamom - 1 No.
Mace - a small strand
Green Chillies - 4-5 Nos.
Basmati Rice - 2 Cups
Water - 3 Cups
Salt - To Taste

For Garnishing:

METHOD:

• Wash the Basmati Rice until the water runs clear.
• Soak the rice for 20 minutes.
• Once soaked, drain and discard the water.
• Drain it through a fine meshed colander and keep it aside.
• Meanwhile, boil 3 Cups of Water and keep it aside.
  
• Heat 2 tablespoons of Ghee in a pan & splutter Cumin Seeds on a very low flame.
• Care should be taken not to burn the Cumin Seeds, which will totally spoil the taste of Jeera Rice.
  
• Add all the spices mentioned under "For Jeera Rice," and fry it on a very low flame until aromatic.
  
• Then, add finely chopped Green Chillies to the above and sauté it for a while.
  
• Now add the soaked Basmati rice and gently mix it.
  
• Pour in 3 Cups of Boiling Water to the above.
  
• Add salt and give a quick stir.
  
• Cover the pan and cook the rice on a low flame until the water is totally absorbed and the rice is well cooked.
• Allow it to cool for few minutes.
• Add One tablespoon of Ghee to the Jeera Rice and fluff  it up.
• Garnish it with finely chopped Coriander Leaves.
• Serve Jeera Rice with preferred vegetarian or non-vegetarian curries of your choice.

NOTES:

• Can substitute half the amount of ghee with oil.
• Splutter Cumin seeds on a very low flame.
• Care should be taken not to burn the Cumin Seeds, which will totally spoil the taste of Jeera Rice.
• Can add fried Cashew Nuts, as garnish.
• Adjust the number of green chillies to suit your spice preference.
• Can use Basmati Rice or any long grained raw rice for this dish.

 

GUJARATI AAM CHUNDA - RAW MANGO  SWEET PICKLE

 

    I got a liking for this Aam Chunda during my college days.  We had a few Gujarati 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, Thepla and least to mention Aam Chunda, Methia Keri Athanu, Katta Meeta Nimbu 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 for the Pickles.  I feel quite nostalgic when I think about this scenario now.

    Since then, I always make a batch of Aam Chunda, and it is one default pickle in my refrigerator.  The moment we serve Lunch, the first thing I put into my plate would be a Pickle and my daughter would always come up with a dialogue... You have pickle for Rice, Pongal, Upma, Sevai... special pickles for Chapatis too?!!! I make a separate batch of Green Chilli Pickle, Brinjal/Eggplant Pickle and this Aam Chunda especially to go along with Chapatis, Rotis/Parathas in a typical North Indian Style.  And most of the other Pickles would be in South Indian Style.

    Aam ka Chunda or simply Raw Mango Sweet Pickle is a very popular pickle from Gujarat. Aam Chunda is a classic Gujarati Mango pickle prepared with Raw Mangoes.  Traditionally grated Raw Mangoes, seasonings & Sugar/Jaggery are mixed and then left under the sun. The heat of the Sun melts down the Sugar and slowly turns it into a syrupy consistency.  Gradually, the grated Mangoes turns translucent and cooked under the heat of the Sun. We can say that it is sun-dried or literally sun-cooked. Usually traditional methods tastes authentic, but it is rather time-consuming. 

    But this is an instant version, a quick fix pickle which could be made within minutes. In this instant version, grated mangoes are slow cooked in Sugar until it reaches one string consistency. Perfect string consistency and slow cooking is the secret behind perfectly textured Aam ka Chunda. The Sugar should be melted into one string consistency on a very low flame, which yields you with a perfectly textured translucent mango strands and also it helps you to store this pickle for a long time. With no preservatives and additives it is the sheer perfect cooking method which makes this pickle last for a long time.  I store it for upto a Year, it lasts longer if stored in the refrigerator.

    Gujarati Aam Chunda /Khummar/ Khaman can be served as a pickle/chutney/relish or as a side dish. It goes very well with Chapatis, Roti, 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 - Gujarati (North Indian)
Recipe Type - Pickle
Spice Level  - Low
Difficulty - Easy
Yields - 1- 11/ 2 Cups
Author - SM

Preparation Time - 15 - 30 Minutes
Cooking Time - 15-20 Minutes
Maturing Time - Instant

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

HOW TO MAKE GUJARATI AAM CHUNDA - RAW MANGO  SWEET PICKLE

 

GUJARATI AAM CHUNDA - RAW MANGO  SWEET PICKLE

INGREDIENTS:

• Wash and wipe the raw mangoes.  I have used 2 big size raw mangoes in this recipe which was about 11/2 Cups.
• Peel the mango skin and then grate them.
• In a wide heavy bottomed or non-stick pan, combine the grated Mangoes along with Salt, Turmeric and Sugar. 
• Mix well and cook this on a medium- low flame for about 2-3 Minutes or until the sugar dissolves completely.
• Once the Mango-Sugar mixture starts to bubble, reduce the flame to low.
• Mix well and cook this on a very low flame, stirring it occasionally, until it reaches one-string consistency and the grated mangoes have turned translucent.
• Switch off the flame.
• Now, add in the Red Chilli Powder and Cumin Powder and give a quick stir.
• Allow Gujarati Aam Chunda to cool down completely before storing it.
• Store Gujarati Aam Chunda in clean & dry airtight bottles.

 

 

EGG & GREEN PEAS MASALA

    Green Peas Curry a.k.a Pattani Curry is one most frequented Curry in our house.  One reason being, it's my Son's favourite Curry.  Whenever I make this curry my husband says that he gets a similar curry in Greenland Hotel near his College(PSG Tech), but the curry served would have boiled Eggs in it.  He always laments saying that, he has never got enough of this combo - Parotta and Green Peas Masala.  The moment the food is ordered, & there it vanishes off, shared by his friends.  But has never felt the pinch then, happy old days. 

    A delicious curry prepared with fresh Green Peas & boiled Eggs in an Onion and Tomato gravy.  This is an easy restaurant style Curry which can be incorporated within no time. Egg & Green Peas Masala is a popular restaurant style dish which can be served with Rotis, Parathas, Naan, Kulcha or simply serve it along with Steamed Basmati Rice, Pulaos, Jeera Rice, Ghee Rice etc.,    

    Green Peas & Egg Masala is a tasty treat rich with flavours. This Curry compliments as a party menu for Vegetarian lovers.  To make this Green Peas Masala recipe richer and flavour filled, add ground Cashew Paste and fresh Cream.

For more RECIPES WITH GREEN PEAS, Click here...

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

Preparation Time - 25-30 Minutes
Cooking Time - 20-30 Minutes

For a detailed recipe on HOW TO BOIL EGGS, Click here.... 

 

HOW TO MAKE EGG & GREEN PEAS MASALA

EGG & GREEN PEAS MASALA