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Indian Cuisine

The moment we Indians hear the word food our mind gets filled with hundreds of pictures of herbs, spices, dishes, sweets and what not. In India its not just about eating to live in fact it’s the other way round that is living to eat. When our moms cook food for us it is not just about taste but also her love served in the form of food. All of us have seen the serene look on our mothers’ face after we eat what she cooks for us. Any person would trade the world for it.

Coming back to Indian cuisine, which is in itself a very vast topic to be discussed because India is a land of many religions and cultures and people belonging to different cultures have different taste pallet. Each state in India has some or the other kind of food that is exclusive to that state. In fact some states are known by the food served there. Bihar is known for its traditional dish “litti chokha”, west Bengal for fish and rice, Rajasthan for “daal-baati” and Punjab for “sarson ka saag.” There is a great deal of diversity in flavors in each of these dishes.

Ingredients used in Indian cuisine are a great way to understand the distinction between various kinds of food cooked in India. While most of the dishes are cooked in vegetable oil, peanut oil is famous in northern and western India, mustard oil in eastern India and coconut oil in south India. Each culinary region also has a distinct blend of spice mix; also known as garam masala and it varies for individual chefs. Use of curry leaves and mustard seeds in very typical of Gujarati and south Indian dishes. Also Kashmiri desserts are seasoned with cardamom, saffron and rose petals.

Cuisine across India is a result of variation in the local culture and geographical location. It also depends on seasons as those fruits and vegetables are eaten which are ripe. First of all we would talk about Delhi, the capital of India, which is also the birthplace of mughlai cuisine. Delhi since ages has been known for its street food. Delhi has people from all parts of India and thus the cuisine in Delhi is an amalgamation of different Indian cuisines modified in unique ways. Western food items also influence the cuisine in Delhi.

The food in Punjab is for those who are strong hearted. It is very rich in flavors and has a liberal dose of ghee and spices. They also use a lot of milk and milk butter and no meal is complete without buttermilk. Mainly people in Punjab are wheat eaters and relish eating paranthas and maize roti. The ubiquitous tandoori chicken is a favorite of all non-vegetarian eaters.

The cuisine of Uttar Pradesh is very diverse and has absorbed and adapted a lot of cuisines to make wonderful dishes. The people of Uttar Pradesh love to eat but they also like to cook and to feed other people. As people they are extremely warm and for them the ultimate form of hospitality is to serve their guests with food until they beg for mercy. They have a wide variety of vegetarian dishes and divine desserts.

Unlike any other cuisine, Gujarati cuisine is strictly vegetarian. The difference lies in the unusual blending of sweet and salt into a harmonious whole. Gujarati food has remained more or less the same since ages. The most well known Gujarati dishes are “khaman dhokla”, “paunk”, “undhyoo” and “shrikhand.”

Goan cuisine is a combination of Konkani and Portuguese food styles.This culinary amalgamation and adaptation has resulted in fiery coconut based curries and stews using pork and beef and rich cakes and pastries. It also offers an interesting range of red and white wine.

Feni is a local cashew fruit or coconut brew that hits all the right spots in our taste buds. For people who are less adventurous, there is refreshing coconut water drunk straight from the tender green coconut.

Bengali food consists of a lot of fish, lentils and rice. Usually their breakfast consists of milk and rice flakes eaten with jaggery. Lunch and dinner are mostly elaborate affairs. The first course is rice and daal with vegetables, pickled mangoes and fresh salad. It is followed by rice and meat. Bengalis are great fish eaters. The “hilsa” fish is a specialty when cooked in mustard sauce.

Bengalis love sweets. A vast array of milk based “mithai” has originated in Bengal. The light and spongy Rosogulla and the mouth-watering Sandesh, which are the specialties in Bengali sweets, are available all over India, but nowhere do they taste as they do in Kolkata.

The food of Tamil Nadu is what is known as “south Indian cuisine” everywhere else in the country. All meals center on a base of rice or semolina preparation like idli, dosa and vada. Eaten alongside is the sambar, sour hot dal with vegetables.

The drink of choice throughout the state is coffee. It is grown in the plantations in the Nilgiri Hills. The coffee is brewed with great care and filtered such that it is guaranteed to deliver the right taste of caffeine with a flavorful punch.

Just like the culture in India, the food in India has also been influenced by various civilizations, which have contributed a fair share in its overall development and the present form of food that we eat.

June 24, 2014
Tea: A Drink for Every Season

Tea, as evident by the consumption in an average Indian’s household, is most widely consumed drink- after water. Tea is found as an important part in every house and that is what I am taking about today. It is the only beverage commonly available hot or iced for every occasion.

It is not just a beverage for the sake of drinking, but it also has numerous health benefits. Oolong tea and White tea, for example, help in weight control. Black tea helps to reduce stress. Various flower teas help to increase metabolism and reduce stress. There are various reasons to drink a cup of tea everyday and to make your tea experience rich and interesting, here is a list to different type of teas you can try in every season.

Summer:-

We can never give up on drinking tea let it be the 45⁰C heat of summer. For this summer, we have got Iced Lemon tea for you. It is easy to make, cool and refreshing; perfect for a summer evening.

Lemon Iced Tea

Ingredients needed:-

1 Lemon

Sugar to taste

½ cup fresh Mint Leaves

1 Black tea bag

Directions to make:-

Using a vegetable peeler remove bright yellow peel from lemon. Combine lemon and sugar in a medium saucepan with 1/2 cup water and boil. Stir to dissolve sugar. Lower the heat and let it heat for one more minute. Remove from heat and add mint. Cool to room temperature.

Now in 1 cup hot water put the tea bag for 5 minutes. Then remove the tea bag and add the syrup, 1 cup cold water and ice cubes.

Serve in tall glasses filled with ice cubes and a few mint leaves on the top.

Autumn:-

In autumn, there is nothing as delightful as sitting at the balcony in the cold breeze with a hot cup of tea nearby. Cinnamon Apple tea is a perfect tea to sip in the autumn-ish cold morning. As evident from the name, it is an apple based tea and doesn’t need tea bags.

Cinnamon Apple Tea

Ingredients needed:-

½ teaspoon honey

½ teaspoon cinnamon

Pinch of nutmeg

1 cup water (boiling)

Directions to make:-

Cut the apples and mash lightly with a fork in the bottom of a mug. Add the dry ingredients on top. Pour 1 cup of boiling water over the apples and other ingredients and stir. Let it simmer in the boiling water for about 5 minutes. Top with whipped cream and enjoy.

Spring:-

It is the most interesting season for trying new tea flavors. In the flowery spring, add some new flavors to the life with some flowery drink.

Lavender Tea

Ingredients needed:-

3 Tablespoons fresh Lavender flowers or 1 1/2 Tablespoons dried Lavender flower

2 cups boiling water

Honey and Lemon (optional)

Direction to make:-

To make Lavender tea put the flowers in a teapot or container along with the boiling water allowing them to stay for a good 4 to 5 minutes.
Pour into cups straining if necessary to remove the flower buds. Drink Lavender flower tea with honey and sliced lemon for better taste.

Chamomile Tea

Chamomile tea has a naturally sweet tasting drink with a tinge of apple flavor. It is a good source of Magnesium and is used as a soothing and relaxing herb.

Ingredients needed:-

1 chamomile teabag or 1 teaspoon dried chamomile flowers

1 cup fresh water, brought just to the boil

Optional additions to taste such as honey, lemon, or mint

Directions to make:-

Add the teabag or dried flower to a cup. Cool the just-boiled water slightly (chamomile tea is best when steeped in hot – not boiling – water), and then add to your cup. Let it steep for 5 to 10 minutes. Its taste and benefits improves with longer steeping time. Remove the teabag or loose tea leaves. Drink it this way or add extras, like honey, lemon, or mint, if you wish.

Winter

Winter, no doubt, is the perfect season for drinking a hot cup of tea every morning and evening. To make winter more healthy and delicious, there is green tea for you to try.

Green Tea

Green tea, with its incredible taste, has many health benefits. Drinking green tea increases metabolism. Also, it helps to maintain a healthy heart. You can also say ‘A cup of Green Tea a day, keeps a doctor away.’

Ingredients needed:-

Green tea leaves- 1 tsp
Water – 1 cup
Honey to taste
Fresh lemon juice to taste

Direction to make:-

Heat 1 cup of water. Do not bring it to boiling point. Switch off before that stage to reduce bitterness. Add 1 tsp green tea and brew it for about 2-3 minutes. If you brew it longer, the tea will taste bitter, so just 2-3 minutes is sufficient. Strain the tea into a cup.
Add honey and a few drops of lemon juice to taste. Do not add milk in this tea. You can use 2-3 fresh mint leaves to get a minty flavor.

So, what are you waiting for? Go make a nice cup of tea for yourself and others. Drink your health and taste at the same time and Enjoy.

June 24, 2014
Why Coffee Is The Elixir Of Life

Coffee is a brewed beverage that is prepared from the roasted seeds of Coffea shrubs. Coffee is served worldwide in various forms. some people like latte, while some prefer the strong Espresso shots. Coffee is a beverage which can be had any time of the day, any time of the year. A hot cuppa coffee while you sit like a cozy puppy in blanket on a winter morning cannot be beaten by anything on this earth. Similarly, having ice chilled cold coffee on a day when Sun has decided to kill us with its scorching heat and show to the entire world that it is so hot, can prove to be a life-saviour. There are numerous kinds of variants available in the market of coffee, ranging from a mild one to one which is so strong that it will just disappear your sleep in the matter of just one cup. Coffee, due to its amorphous nature, is liked by all and there is no dearth of people who are coffee addicts. The strong taste and smell of coffee make it different from all the other beverages. Here are some of the reasons why is coffee is the elixir of life:

1. The Aroma

Though it is true that no two things are alike in this universes and this holds true for everything but only one thing justifies it to the fullest. That thing is none other than coffee. There is nothing like coffee in this world. It is unique in every aspect. The strong smell of coffee is so addictive that whenever anyone passes across a coffee house, the person is bound to intentionally inhale the enigmatic vapour peeping through those glass doors. The smell is so strong and has neutralising qualities which is the reason why people at the malls would offer you to smell some coffee beans in between smelling two different scents. Many surveys tell that the aroma of coffee often serves as a soothing fragrance and is capable of calming the disturbed human mind. So, what are you waiting for? Go. Find that jar of coffee and sniff, sniff!

2. The Taste

Coffee due to the presence of caffeine, is acidic in nature. The acidic strength of coffee is different in mild and strong variants. The mild one feels smooth inside your mouth and its taste lasts longer. Whereas, coffee which is said to be more acidic, gives a tangy flavour. The strong taste of coffee is often compared to the strong taste of citrus fruits as they both have an addictive aroma and a tangy, peculiar taste to them. No aerated beverage like cola, has a flavour that is as addictive as this naturally produced coffee. Due to the availability of so many options, one can choose how strong they want their coffee to taste. The strongest taste of coffee in its most raw form can be had by savouring a cup of hot espresso or black coffee, as it is called in some countries. If the bitterness of an espresso is too harsh for you, you can opt for coffee with different ratio of milk, foam and cream.

3. The Kick

If ever you have played ‘The Sims’, then you would know that whenever your character drinks too much coffee, it starts feeling “buzzed”. The similar is the situation outside that virtual game too. The aroma and the perfect taste, both combine to produce a beverage that is non-alcoholic yet it gives a kick in the head very strongly. The best part of this buzz is that it gives you a certain sense of being high but that is not so strong as that gained by an alcoholic drink and thus, you do not lose your senses after many rounds of coffee. Coffee is capable of giving you the much necessary kick and that too, without any ill and anti-social side effects. Many people claim that the high they get from coffee is a soothing one and it just gives them a sense of happiness from within.

4. The Sleep Deleter

We all have had those nights when we had to stay awake the entire night and complete five assignments in one go. We know that no friend, no notes, nothing of those things could have proved to be of even an iota of help had it not been for coffee. What work can anyone do if one is not awake? Coffee is the ultimate sleep deleter. It just vanishes those lazy moments and gives a strength that no other energy drink can provide. This sleep deleter is a tonic that is very enriching and does not lead to a hangover. A strong cup of coffee keeps the eyes wide open and is enough to burn the midnight oil. The kick, the taste, the aroma, all of these qualities of coffee make it the elixir of life. Coffee is not just a beverage. It is the beverage.

June 24, 2014
Yummy Chocolate Recipes For This Summer!
As Charles M. Schulz once said, ‘all you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn’t hurt.’ Chocolates make you happy. Eating a chocolate makes your brainssecrete those ‘feel good’ endorphins. Dark chocolates contain chemicals that protect you from cancer and other diseases. The caffeine content in dark chocolate makes you feel alive. Did you know that eating chocolates widens up your arteries and fosters a healthy blood flow that prevents plague from building up in your arteries and blocking them.Chocolates are rich in phenolic, the same protein found in wine. The protein helps lower the risk of heart diseases and prevent clot like substances from clogging the arteries. Research provides that candy eaters live almost an year more than those who abstrain. Also, chocolate melts at 97 degrees Celsius which is just below your body temperature. It melts in your mouth and leaves you wanting for more all the time.

So true, isn’t it? We all crave for chocolates, don’t we? From chocolate cakes, to chocolate ice-creams to chocolate biscuits and what not! Its rich, it’s creamy and amazingly delicious.

So this time, I bring to you, some of the yummiest chocolate recipes for the summer:
- Black-Forest Vanilla Cake (and yes, with the cherry on the top of course!)
A delicious black-forest cake with vanilla ice-cream sand-witched between chocolate sponge is a must eat this summer. So how do you try and bake it?

Here’s the recipe:

All that you need: A 70mm diameter chocolate sponge cake, 2tbs sugar, 1 tbs rum, ½ glass of water, 2 cups of whipped cream, ½ cup dark chocolate chips, 3 canned cherries which should be cut into half, 2 ½ cups of vanilla ice-cream, 5 tbs chopped cherries, 7 tbs grated chocolate.

All set with the ingredients?

So here’s how you prepare it:
- Firstly, you need to cut the cake into 4 parts.
- The bottom layer of the serving plate should be sprinkled with ½ soaking syrup.
- Now, on this soaked layer of sponge, spread 1 ½ cup of ice-cream.
- Top this layer with 3tbs cherries and 4 tbs chocolate.
- Now, another layer of sponge should be placed on this.
- Sprinkle some more soaking syrup on this sponge layer.
- Arrange the remaining cup of ice-cream on this layer.
- Top it with remaining cherries and chocolate.
- Sprinkle the remaining soaking syrup.
- Top the cake with whipped cream
- And finally, garnish the cake with cheese and grated chocolate.
- Freeze till the cake becomes firm.
Your delicious Black-Forest Vanilla Cake is ready to be served!
- Chocó-Almond Cupcake: Its small, it’s petite, but it’s definitely a treat for your taste buds. This is definitely going to be an unforgettable experience one you get to taste this luxurious combination of almonds and Chocó. The frosting of Almond and chocolate make this cupcake taste very different from the others. A chocolate ice-cream cake. (And again, with the cherry on the top!)
Here’s a list of all that you need: 8 chocolate sponge, 7 tbs butter
12 tbsp icing sugar, 6 1/2 tbsp melted chocolate mixed with 1 tbs milk, 4 tbs powdered almonds , 1/2 tsp almond essence, 6 tbs soaked and chopped almonds and
6 cherries.

How to prepare it:
- Put all the butter in a bowl
- Beat it with the help of a spatula.
- Now, add some icing and sugar to it.
- Mix well the powdered chocolate and the almond and put it into the batter.
- Now, the frosting needs to be filled in a piping bag.
- Swirl out whichever shape you would love to see on your little cupcake.
- Garnish them with frosting and almonds and don’t forget to add the cherry on the top.
Your little surprise is ready to be served.
- Chocó-Brownie Milkshake: The perfect summer cooler for you this summer. A totally different kind of a milkshake made from the combination of vanilla ice cream, brownie and milk.
What all do you need: 200 gms of chocolate, 500 ml of milk, 2 tbs vanilla essence, some crush ice cubes, 2 scoops vanilla ice cream.

How to prepare it:
- Combine all the ingredients and churn them. Keep the ice out of the mixture for now.
- Transfer to bowl
- Add ice to it and mix well.
Your milkshake is ready to be served.
- Chocolate Fondue: The super yummy hot mixture of marshmallow, dipping fruit and cake pieces.
What all do you need: 100 gms of milk chocolate, broken into small pieces, 1/3 cup of milk, 1 tbs flour, 4 tbs cocoa powder, 4 to 5 tbs sugar, ½ tbs vanilla essence, 1 tbs butter, 2 tbs brandy, fresh fruit, cake pieces and marshmallows for dipping.

How to prepare it:
1. The butter had to put in a glass bowl and beaten
2. Microwave the batter for 1 ½ minutes
3. Stir twice after every 30 seconds
4. Add milk, Chocó chips, cocoa, cream, sugar, a teacup of water.
5. Stir the batter after 30 seconds.
6. Pour the mixture in a dish.
7. Stir well and add brandy.
And finally, your chocolate fondue is ready to be served.
June 24, 2014
Dances of God’s Own Country!

The National Geographic Magazine names Kerala among the top 10 paradises in the world. ‘God’s Own Country’ was originally a phrase New Zealanders used to describe their home land. The earliest use of the phrase was as the title of a poem about New Zealand by Thomas Bracken. God’s own country as a phrase was often used and popularized by New Zealand’s longest serving Prime Minister RichardSeddon. The etymological meaning of Kerala is the land of coconuts, Kera means coconut in Malayalam. Kerala is abundantly endowed with coconut trees all over its mainland. The thick ambush of coconut trees is a treat to the eyes. Situated at the southernmost part of India, it is an exotic location with a temperate climate. However the real beauty of the land are its people, Kerala boasts of having the first fully literate state in the country, Kottayam. Life expectancy rate in Kerala is the highest in India and the female to male sex ratio n Kerala is higher than the national average.

Kerala is a home to a number of dance and art forms, they are an integral part to the regions culture. They are performed in temples and ceremonious occasions. The dances of Kerala are wonderfully vibrant and breathtakingly enchanting. They carry hues of enthusiasm and gaiety and are a perfect blend of pristine culture and rich traditional beauty. Legends and mythological stories are depicted through the dance forms. Kerala is today known all over the world for its enchanting performing arts which were highly patronized by the rulers and sketched to eternity by the folklores.

Kerala has a rich variety of folk dances. Some of them are

Kathakali

Kathakali is one of the oldest theatre forms in the world. It is group dance where in dancer take in roles based on themes from the Hindu mythology, primarily the epics Ramayana and Mahabharata. A really interesting aspect of Kathakali is the elaborate dressing and makeup. Characters are sorted according to the nature of the role they play and wear colors accordingly. The face of noble male characters like kings and divine heroes such as Rama are painted green. Characters of high birth such as Ravana with an evil streak in them are painted a similar green on their faces with red streaks. Extremely evil or excessively angry characters wear predominantly red makeup and a flowing red beard. Forest dwellers and hunters are represented with a black faces. Women and ascetics wear a luminous yellow face. The technique of depiction involves a highly complicated gamut of gestures with which the actor can articulate lines and even words, the body movements and footwork are aesthetically intricate and precise. The actors to perform this feat have to go through several decades of trainingand require regular body massages for flexibility and muscle strength and control.

Mohiniattam

it is a dance form closely related to Bharatanatyam of Tamil Nadu called dasiattam. Originated in the temples the dance was performed by Devadasis, it articulated feminine love in it myriad forms namely carnal, paternal and devotional. It somehow degenerated to eroticism in the epicurean way of life until Vallathol, a renowned Malayalam poet revived its status in modern times with his institute called Kalamandalam. Most of the features of Mohiniattam are similar to the one in kuchipudi and bharatnatyam, though there are subtle differences in the movements and hand gestures. The language used in the lyrics is a mix of Malayalam and Sanskrit, known as manipravalams

Koothu

It is a socio-religious act performed in the Koothambalam. It is a solo narrative dance with sprinkles of wit and humor. Through the inimitable narration of the epics the Chakkiyar, the performer articulates the satirical conditions in those times. No one is above the butt of his mockery, he doesn’t spare kings or slaves. His humor ranges from innocent mockery to veiled innuendoes.

Theyyam

Thaiyam is one of the most spectacular dance forms of Northern Kerala which is about eight centuries old. It is believes to have been derived from the word Daivam meaning God. It is believed that immortal spirits enter into mortal bodies while performing the dance. Theyyam is staged regularly in the shrines of Malabar.

There are also a large number of folk dances that have survived the ages and continue to enthrall us with their rapture. Some of them are

Thiruvathira

Thiruvathira is performed by maidens who revolve around a cirle while performing dance steps along the music which is essentially the clapping and the narrative song sung by singers as they go around the cirle.

Kolkali

It is a group dance performed in a circle where the dancers dance to the rhythmic beats with sticks in their hands. The dance gains tempo and pace as it advances and is performed only by the males who have a certain basic martial art training.

June 24, 2014
Cherries- sweet and sour
There are over a thousand varieties of cherries existing on our planet. The cherry is a fruit of a single seed and they are in the same family as the peach. It can be characterized by its small round shape and often slightly heart-shaped, this fruit grows in small bunches. Sweet and juicy cherries are included on the board of different varieties. These cherries are cultivated in the Northern Hemisphere in at least twenty different countries. They are tasty antioxidant fruits which grow best in specific climates having their peak season as summer. The seeds of a cherry require some cold to germinate hence they cannot grow in tropical weather. There are many types of cherries, though they can be divided into two basic groups-
- Sweet Cherries- They are characterized by their sweet taste. These cherries are often eaten raw and used in sherbets and ice cream.
- Sour or Tart Cherries- Commonly used to cook or preserve.
BLACK CHERRY-

Black cherry is the largest of the native cherries and the only one of commercial value. It is also called wild black cherry and mountain black cherry. It can be anywhere, because it can grow almost in any soil. Black cherry leaves are dark green on top and light green on bottom. They grow up to five inches long and two inches wide. Black cherry flowers are solitary, white and borne in umbel-like racemes. These cherries are an important source of mast for various types of wildlife. They can be cooked with herbs and spices. These cherries are used as sweetener and thickener and in ice creams, cakes and sauces etc. They contain high amount of nutrients which are important for our body. They also contain anti-oxidants, anthocyanin and melatonin which are significant to lower the risk of stroke and heart attacks.

BING CHERRY-

Bing cherries are extra-large in size and heart shaped with a deep maroon color. They come from the Pacific Northwest and are beloved for their sweet flavor. Studies have shown that they reduces the risk of chronic diseases and metabolic syndrome. Bing cherries are generally consumed raw and sold in the market right after they are harvested. These cherries contains high level of anti-oxidants and are very useful in treating arthritis, gouts and heart diseases. Bing cherries contain antioxidants and other nutrients which helps to relieve inflammation, arthritis pain, prevent cancer and lower blood pressure.

RAINIER CHERRY-

Rainier cherry is also known as white cherry because of its white and creamy flesh. Their skin is yellowish red. It is the sweetest, prettiest and most pampered of all cherries and it as delicate as lucrative. Rainier cherries also have some skin discoloration, slight brown spotting which indicates its high sugar content. These cherries also contain fiber, which is important for a healthy digestive system. It has 22 grams of carbohydrates in a full serving which helps in providing long-term energy. It contains vitamin C which helps to strengthen the immune system and fight off diseases. It also has skin brightening antioxidant.

BROOKS CHERRY-

The brook cherry is relatively new variety of cherries which offers some outstanding qualities. Brooks are actually hybrid between Bing and Rainier. Its most chilling requirement is 400 hrs. Brooks is a large, dark red cherry very similar to Bing.It’s a cherry with sweet taste with a bit of tart bite. Its flesh is firm and crisp with some shades of pink and red. It’s a semi freestone cherry which pollinates with Tulare and Coral.

CHOKE CHERRY-

ChokeCherry is commonly a shrub, and a small tree which grows in North America, with a twisted or crooked trunk and an irregular crown. This wild cherry is a member of rose family. The fruits of chokecherry are true cherries, which contains single seed or stone. They are from 4-9mm in diameter and varies in color from yellow, red to purple-black. The choke cherry wood is used for handles and for decorating basket rims. They also helps in reducing risk of coronary heart diseases, stroke and some cancers. Its roots can be used to make appetite stimulants, medicinal teas for treating coughs, tuberculosis and malaria etc.

HEALTH BENEFITS-

Cherries are an excellent source of magnesium and potassium which helps to protect our body from high blood pressure. Eating cherries can help you lose weight and stay slim. Cherries are source of many vitamins and minerals. Cherries can also help to reduce painful inflammation by decreasing the amount of C reactive protein produced. Cyanidin is a flavonoid which is found in cherries, it helps in keeping cancerous cell from going out of control. Cherries contain vitamin B6, which is crucial for metabolism and converts nutrients into energy. Cherries are also a source of Anthocyanin, an amino acid which protects the cell of body from damaging, aging, and ultraviolet radiations.
June 24, 2014
Let’s go for Coffee!

Coffee culture in India is not as old as that of tea. It is a westernized form of having a refreshing evening or asking someone for a date! Coffee shops in India are increasing from last decades and have gained popularity a lot, especially in young generation. The Coffee market is expanding at a very high rate every year. The market is facing tough competition with the new luxurious café brands joining the market and with this increasing competition and number of different coffee brand outlets, the economy of the country is elevated. Though this expanding outlets have given customers variety of choices to enjoy their cup of exotic coffees at the best of the prices with the awesomeness of taste. They are versatile options available ranging from espresso, latte, cappuccino, frappuccino and many more. These international coffee brands offer you with rich, luxurious coffees at perfect ambience with all the comfort. You just can’t resist visiting these café at least once in your lifetime.

As per the report by Technopak advisors, the Indian coffee market grew by 200 stores a year for the past 5 years. India has over 2100 cafes and the country has space for upto 2500 more in next five years. The upscale coffee shops that have sprung up throughout India in recent years are providing a chance for youth from middle-income groups to become more socially mobile and these prestigious coffee shops are also becoming a platform for jobs. Working in coffee chains like U.K’s Costa Coffee or CCD, which have set up shops in India in the last decade, pays well, provides respectability and chances for promotion too, and it is the fast becoming the preserve of educated but less well-off young Indians. With so many international chains and domestic café chains in India to have the uber-luxurious coffee and have a super talkative family time or to spend some quality time with your date, these lavish cafés are sure to please you and you will want to go there again and again.
STARBUCKS COFFEE:

Starbucks Corporation is an American coffee company and a coffeehouse chain based in Seattle, Washington and has 23,187 stores in 64 countries. It is one of the most favored international coffee brand in India. The Starbucks has entered the Indian market through a joint venture with TATA global beverages and worked to create its business in India by opening its coffee stores in most prominent locations of country, thus attracting many customers. It offers a high quality coffee experience along with comfortable and spacious facility and good meet up place with friends and relatives. Starbucks has a wide variety of coffees and other eatables to offer its customers and they serve 100 percent Arabian coffee. They have espresso beverages (hot or iced), Frappucino blended beverages and Non-coffee beverages. Each product is offered to customers in 3 different sizes viz. Short, tall and grand having different prices and are served in designer cups and glasses. They also have different types of sugars; brown sugar, regular sugar, no sugar and there are also delicious food items ranging from muffins, cakes, rolls and sandwich. Starbucks doesn’t have any discount strategy to attract customers as they believe in providing best quality and service to its customers at high prices. If we talk about ambience of this café, it can be rated highest of all. They have different ambience in summer and in winter. Starbucks coffee café is perfectly set up to give you a unique experience. It really demands a must visit.
COSTA COFFEE:

It is a British multinational coffeehouse company headquartered in Dunstable, UK. It was founded in 1971 in the UK by two brothers. It has grown to over 1700 stores in 35 countries. They provide best quality hot coffee and they have a wide variety of coffees and snacks which provides customers with lots of choices. Costa coffee could be put in premium segment in terms of pricing as they even charge customers for sauces. The ambience of Costa coffee is quite nice and comfy and the walls are painted with bright different colours which give a very refreshing feel. Also, the staff of this coffeehouse is very warm and helpful and serve you with a smile on their face always. With so many quality servings, I think it can prove to be a great coffee visit.
BARISTA LAVAZZA:

It was established in 2000. The word ‘barista’ is an Italian word is a person usually a coffeehouse employee, who prepares espresso based coffee drinks. The ownership of barista has changed three times from Tata coffee to Sterling group to Lavazza. Barista has versatile drinks and snacks on their menu and also have different varieties of tea to attract Indian customers. They also have high price and low price items and serve tea and coffee in three different sizes. It is a good experience to visit Barista Lavazza.
CAFÉ COFFE DAY:

The most famous coffee shop in India CCD is like the first choice for youngsters and students. It is an Indian company established in 1996 and now they have around 1000+ cafes in different cities of India. Most of us have visited CCD and have loved the taste of its different coffees it offers and other food products. It also offers different combos which let its customers to have one product under one item. Unlike other coffee brands where one has to travel a lot to reach an outlet, the best thing about CCD stores is that they are easily accessible. CCD coffee shops are a perfect combination of comfort, lavishness, luxury and perfect prices to have a satisfying experience.
Who doesn’t love coffee? Everyone likes to have a talk over a cup of coffee and with these uber-luxurious options to enjoy that one cup of espresso or cappuccino or frappucino, all these outlets require a must visit at least once to give an exotic experience to our appetite.

So, let’s go for coffee this evening! What say?!!!

June 24, 2014
Rasgulla: The syrupy taste of India
Don’t you people got bored with the same khichdi and daal all the time in your lunch and dinner? Have some change and make your appetite more interesting and delicious..!! Go on and try some desserts, sweets, ice-creams. What can be more yummy and delicious than Rasgulla..! Rasgulla, the name itself can make you salivate. The most historical and yummy Bengali dish is famous all over the country and also spread its taste over neighbouring countries like Nepal, Bhutan, Pakistan and Bangladesh. It is a white spongy variant also popularly known as Rossogolla in Bengal.

It is a syrupy dessert based on cheese (chhena) is popular in the whole nation mainly in West Bengal and Orissa. It is typically served on various occasions and parties. They are white sweet yummy balls which is spongy and rubbery in nature.

Sri Nobin Chandra Das, who is remembered as the father of Rossogolla succeeded in inventing this National Sweet of India in 1868. He is responsible for modifying this recipe of white variant spongy dish all over the nation. He popularised this sweet dish among various sweet-makers and finally canned rasgullas were prepared to gain this popularity outside Kolkata.

This sweet dish not only popular among parties or dinner instead in Puri this is most widely used as an offering to the Goddess Lakshmi as a tradition. There people believed that Jagannath tried to pacify Lakshmi with these rasgullas and that’s why she is offered this as a ‘Bhog’. Due to this tradition scholars perceived this offering as the origin of this dish.

This Bengali sweet doesn’t exist as a single rather several variants exist. Starting with Notun Gurer Rasgulla, which are the most famous seasonal variants with the addition of Fresh Jaggery in it. Then comes Kamola Bhog, which is rich in orange flavour. Originally the rasgullas used to be creamish in colour and less spongy. In Orissa it is very common to embed a piece of cashew or raisin which increases its taste. Conventional Rossogolla, Cream Chop, Sponge Rossogolla, Rajbhog, khasta are another variants that are available in different shapes and sizes. They are generally served to the guest at room temperature but sometimes they are also served them chilled. This is not enough instead hot rasgullas are also famous among Indian household.

Manufacturers of Rasgullas do not generally disclose the recipe of this sweet dish and it seems that its preparation might be difficult. But it is not so. It has an easy and convenient way. Its preparation initially needs the preparation of Chhena balls and syrup.

Ingredients: Flour (2 tspn), milk (1 litre), sugar (200gm), Lemon juice, Water.

Preparation of Chhena balls:
- Initially boil full cream milk and allow it to cool down.
- For separating chhena and water add lemon juice to it.
- After separation, bundle up the content of milk in muslin cloth and keep it for 6-8 hours so that extra water is drained out.
- Now add flour to the Chhena and prepare fine dough.
- From that dough make small balls.
Preparation of Syrup:
- Boil water and add sugar to it.
- After sugar is dissolved then add ½ cup of milk.
- Some un-dissolved particle would float which needs to be separated from it to obtain clear syrup.
- Add Chhena balls to it and boil it along with the addition of water to it in a span of 15 minutes.
Rossogollas is ready and it needs to be cooled now.

How much delicious this sweet dish is depends mainly on its serving size. The size of rasgullas varies greatly but usually small size of 3.5 oz is preferable. The serving size will directly affect nutritional value of this sweet.

Generally a person believes that sweet dish is responsible for various diseases and they tend to avoid sweets. All the wishes of them are marred. But it is just their perceptions and in reality it is highly nutritious dish after taking your lunch or dinner. This delicious sweet consists of 186 calories (153 calories for carbohydrates, 17 calories for fats and 16 for proteins).

In ancient times Rasgullas are served normally at room temperature but now days demands changed and it has led them to be served chilled. They are also served with Ice cream as a dessert to make ice cream rasgullas. In restaurant to add more cream to this dessert it is served with blueberry sauce. It is entitled as Oriya dessert. Sondesh is similar as rasgulla and is another Chhena dish prepared in Bengal. The Chhena balls prepared is also used in Rasmalai which is popular throughout India. In this sweetened milk is mixed instead of syrup. In Creamy chop chhena is sandwiched in the middle of the clotted cream. This dish is served in various occasions such as marriages, parties and it shows the symbol of your high dignity. This is also served as a welcome dish on various festive occasions.

Go on and try it..!!
June 24, 2014
INSTANT ACCHARS: PICK YOUR PICKLE
Growing up in India “Acchars” or the Indian pickle has been a substantial part of my childhood experience. I would see my Mom and Aunts spending considerable time in preparing the vegetables, gathering the spices and making arrangements for their storage for days on end. A very tedious affair indeed!! But the end product makes up for all the trouble caused. Pickles are tangy and immediately add savor to anything they are consumed with, be it- paratha, burger or pancakes.

Pickles are formed by the anaerobic fermentation of vegetables and unripe vegetables in the presence of brine (salt-water) or vinegar. This caused them to dehydrate and thus, discourages the growth of microbes. Moreover, their pH is less than 4.6 which further kills most bacteria. Thus, they can be preserved for months and depending on the recipe, even years!! The vegetables pickled in brine as opposed to vinegar, are known to contain Lactobacillus and are thus, probiotic.

Like mentioned above, making “Acchars” can be a pretty tiring job especially if you are a student or working a 24×7 job. Not anymore. Here are 5 instant Pickle recipes anyone can make. They can be stored for lesser duration as compared to the traditional pickles, but the tang it brings to our food is so worth it!!
1. CARROT PICKLE
Ingredients
1. 10 carrots
2. 1 ½ tbsp crushed mustard
3. 1 ½ tbsp lemon juice
4. 1 ½ tbsp oil
5. Cumin powder
6. Turmeric powder
Method

Wash the carrots and peel them to remove a thin layer of outer covering. Cut the carrots into desired shapes, preferably rectangular. Gather all the ingredients in a bowl and mix them thoroughly. And you are good to go!! Finish this preparation within 2-3 days.
1. GREEN CHILLI PICKLE
Ingredients
1. 1 cup green chilies
2. ¼ tbsp fenugreek seeds
3. ¼ tbsp cumin seeds
4. 1/8 tbsp turmeric powder
5. 1/8 tbsp grounded asafetida
6. 1 tbsp lemon juice
7. 2 tbsp oil
8. ½ tbsp sugar
9. ½ tbsp salt
10. ¼ tbsp amchoor or dried mango powder
Method

Wash green chilies and give them a longitudinal cut right in the middle such that they still remain joined at the end. Put oil in a pan and allow it to heat it till it is ready enough to fry. Add cumin and fenugreek seeds and keep whisking them lightly till they begin to crackle. Add amchoor, asafetida, turmeric powder, salt and chilies and mix them for a few minutes. Finally, add sugar and lemon juice. Mix them properly and turn off the heat.
1. LEMON PICKLE
Ingredients
1. 10 lemons
2. 6 tbsp salt
3. 2 tbsp red chili powder
4. ½ tbsp turmeric
Method

It takes a little longer to prepare this pickle. But it can be stored for months and is extremely easy to make. Cut the lemons into half or make 4 pieces. Gather the lemons in a large bowl and pour all the other ingredients i.e. salt, turmeric and chili powder. Mix the constituents properly. Remember, depending on the climate and temperature of the place, the amount of ingredients has to be adjusted. Put the mixture in a glass-jar and put it daily under sunlight for a week or so. The pickle is considered ready when the lemon loses water and becomes soft. To store it for longer duration, add oil.

4. MANGO PICKLE

Ingredients
1. 1 cup sliced unripe mango
2. 1 tbsp chili powder
3. ½ tbsp salt
4. 1 ½ tbsp mustard oil
5. 1 tbsp cumin seeds roasted
6. ¼ tbsp grounded asafetida
7. ½ tbsp turmeric powder
Method

Mango pickle is arguably the most famous and mouth-tickling pickle there is. Traditionally, it requires a long for the mango “acchar” to get ready. But you need not compromise with taste in your hectic life. So let’s get started. Firstly, take the mango strips in a bowl and add salt. Mix these two ingredients properly and leave them aside for one and a half hour. Once the mangoes lose water, drain the water and collect the mango strips. Put these strips in a large bowl and add all the other ingredients. Mix these thoroughly and your delicious pickle is ready to be served. It can be stored up to 3-4 days when refrigerated.

5. AMLA OR INDIAN GOOSEBERRY PICKLE

Ingredients
1. 10 Amlas
2. 1/8 tbsp Red chili powder
3. 1/8 tbsp asafetida
4. 1/8 tsp fenugreek powder
5. A pinch of turmeric powder
6. Salt-to taste
7. 1 tbsp oil
8. 1/8 tbsp yellow mustard seeds
Method

Boil water in a pan with a pinch of salt. Slowly add Amlas to this boiling mix and let it heat for 5 to 6 minutes. Drain water from the Amlas and allow them to cool for some time. Once they cool down, separate them into their natural wedge shape by cutting and remove the seed in the middle. Heat oil in a pan and add asafetida and mustard seeds. When the seeds begin to crackle, add amla wedges followed by the rest of the ingredients and cook them for 3-4 minutes. Turn off the flame and allow it to cool. Refrigerate for prolonged storage.

Pickles add flavor to your life, they make your food come alive and dance. In our hectic lives, we often compromise with our meals. So the next time, you decide to half-heartedly swallow bread and a sad not-so-tasty vegetable that you prepared, think again!! Just few minutes of your precious time and you can add soul to your snack. so, come on- PICK YOUR PICKLE!!
June 24, 2014
DU Darshan:the foodie trip in North campus

For a student at the Delhi University,especially as a person who belongs to the north campus,the variety of places to eat and hangout are well known.In the continuous debate between the north and south campus about what makes them so special,the eateries and restaurants,juice corners,snacks and momo walas add to the list of specialty at the north campus of DU.After every ten steps you shall find a momo wala or a van serving snacks .

The campus is humongous,and the variety is stunning.From make shift momo shops to proper eateries and restaurants,the foodie treat can never end.there is always something new to try.What is even more pleasing is the inexpensive price rate that the majority of such places offer.So easy on the pocket,every nook and corner of north campus has such foodie pockets and addas for students to fill their tummy and treat their taste buds. In fact its at times a crazy ride to decide which place is it that you wish to eat today.Amazing egg rolls,yummy milkshakes,savory and hot momos with their lip smacking sauce and mayonnaise,pastry and cakes,ice creams and a lot more,you name it and you will find it in north campus.Cuisines of all sorts from all possible origins,to the simple chaat ,pani puri and bhalla paapdi,the munch list here is almost never ending.
The two favorites that my group of friends and I have are the Rock and Wood cafe and Mr.Crust bakery.Starting with the Rock and Wood cafe,a humble cozy place to hangout,this place has the most inexpensive menu that I have ever come across with a very good set of dishes to offer.Famous for its wraps and noodles,worth Rs.60 or Rs.70,it is undoubtedly a treat to the palate,and the bill makes it all the convenient as an option.The egg and chicken wrap here are absolutely scrumptious,even the dough of the wrap is kneaded with egg to provide for the consistent flavor.The chicken is tender and juicy balanced well with the spicey and tangy zing.The paneer wrap is another such treat,with soft chunks of cottage cheese enveloped in savory mix of sauces.Whats more,you can order a tumbler full of Mojito here worth Rs.40 only,to accompany your meal.A cool refreshing glass of Mojito,with mint leaves and lemon garnish ,quenches the most severe of thirsts.

The chicken garlic noodle here is absolutely delicious!the subtle tinge of garlic and juicy slices of chicken with well seasoned Hakka noodles,served generously(the portion is really big) is the ultimate hunger buster.

The plain hakka noodles with honey chilli chicken is the most wondrous combination,and undoubtedly a must try.The honey chilli chicken,a crispy treat indeed with well marinated chicken pieces with a crunchy outer,an the best possible balance of the sweet and the spicey leaves you reeling for more.

The tandoori chicken here was one of my first dishes here,and well it is a really good dish for two,the chicken is well selected and the gravy is creamy and consistent.The egg fried rice is another bowl full of taste and flavor.Other than the above mentioned ,the combo meals here are also a good deal ,with absolute justice done to the taste.A friendly staff ,a comfortable ambiance and yes not to forget,a huge LED television to pamper the cricket fans on evenings,delicious food and inexpensive rates,the rock and wood cafe is a must visit.The next stop for dessert is Mr.Crust bakery,right across the road.Welcome to the mini Charlie’s chocolate factory,entering into the world of pastries,cakes and milkshakes galore.!Just in case ,the hunger pangs are still hitting inside your tummy,you have entered the right place to bust them.The menu here is so large and encompasses all possible varieties of confections and bakery products you could ask for.As I said,that it is indeed the mini Charlie’s chocolate factory,for those who have a sweet tooth,you will love this place.The Nutty chocolate is a must try pastry.The crunchy chocolate slab of wondrous balance between the crunchy roasted nuts and the right kind of bitter chocolate and sweet is absolute heaven on your tongue.

Choco walnut brownie,brownie with ice cream,brownie in hot chocolate sauce,these names itself makes one’s mouth water and the tummy crave,let alone the first bite itself mesmerizes efficiently.

Chocolate tart,is indeed a treat .Worth Rs. 15 only,the crunchy crust and a cool chocolate that becomes semi liquid as you eat your way inwards.The lemon tart,a tangy treat with a beautiful balance of sour and sweet.The pastas ,pretzels and sandwiches are yet another treat here.The cost at which all of these scrumptious treats are available is so easy on the pocket that a frequent venture to this place becomes a routine practice.The friendly staff and an extremely amicable manager who is always around for your feed back has added to the rapid progress and enhancement.These two places are my addition to must tries and have an instant likability to them.Scrumptious food,good portions and easy on the pocket,these places have definitely cracked the mantra for becoming favorites in a jiffy.BON APPETITE!

June 24, 2014