Blog

Cupcakes
Cupcakes are small sized cakes suitable to be served to one person. These cakes are baked in small aluminum cups or thin paper and decorated similar to how normal sized cakes are decorated. Therefore one can see cupcakes as a miniature form of the normal sized cakes. In old times cakes used to me made in pottery cups or coffee mugs until the discovery of muffin tins which was a metal pan with or without a non sticky surface and had depressions or cups made in them. The number of such depressions ranged between 6 to 12 depending upon the length of the pan and the size of these depressions. Other than metal, such pans were made using materials such as silicone and stoneware. If we notice a cupcake, we find that the lower portion of the cake is covered with a thin sheet of paper. These are patty cases or cupcake liners which are used for bakes these cakes. This paper or cupcake liners are made up of paper or very thin aluminum foil or silicone rubber. These liners are placed in the packets of the muffin tin wherein the batter is put before it goes for baking. The main purpose or use of such liners is that they keep the cupcakes moist and makes it easy to remove the cakes from the tin once baking is over. It also saves time and efforts which would be otherwise put in cleaning the tin after baking is over. For people who could not afford a muffin tin, aluminum foils or silicone liners became handy can they could balance on their own. The paper used here are not the normal paper we find but are thicker yet lighter in nature. Some bakers use 2-3 paper liners joint together to make its stability similar to a single aluminum foil. Such liners also like muffin tin come in different shapes and sizes depending upon the size of the cupcake to be baked.

According to food historians, cupcakes originated in the United States around the 19^th century. The creation of cupcakes is considered to be a revolution in the field of baking due to the amount of time it saves in the kitchen however the origin of the name is still unknown. Historians have come up with two sets of theory which details out how the name could have come into existence. According to one theory the name “cupcakes” was devised from the fact that these cakes were made in cups or coffee mugs and the second theory states that the name was introduced because the ingredients used to make this cake was measured in cups like 1 cup of butter, 3 cups of flour etc. However nobody knows which of these theories explains the truth.

“Sprinkles cupcakes” established in Beverly Hills is considered to be the first cupcake bakery to be started by two investment bankers who had started this business at the time when the market of cakes and bakery products was falling. Though a very risky venture, the two partners believed that the survival of the industry now rested on their shoulders. The partners finally felt relieved that their decision to run the business was correct when the first set of cakes which was produced was sold out in no time and they had to bake more in order to meet the demand for the day. Around 2500 cakes were sold that very day and this was the start of cupcake fever. Cupcakes always proved convenient when compared to the normal sized cakes because they took less time to bake and secondly because of the use of muffin tins, the base of these cakes also did not burn. Since its creation they have been a boom in the culinary world with dozens of bakeries, cookbooks, blogs specially dedicated to them. The market for cupcakes saw a 52% increase in sales during the year 2010-2011 with market speculators predicting a rise in this percent in the future.

Cupcakes are easy to make and can be made at home as well on special occasions such a parties and family gatherings. With different recipes available to us, we have so much to choose from depending upon our taste and preferences.

Since chocolate is a favourite of many the recipe for a dark chocolate cupcake is given below which I would say is worth a try

Dark Chocolate Cupcake

Directions:
- Preheat the oven to about 350F and adjust the rack to the lower middle position in the oven.
- Take a muffin pan and line it with the baking cups and keep it aside.
- Now in a bowl add butter cocoa and chocolate and place it on a saucepan filled with water and heat until the chocolate and the butter starts to melt. Once the melting starts mix them both till they combine with each other nicely. Then keep it aside for cooling.
- Now in a medium sized bowl add flour, baking soda and baking powder and in another bowl add eggs, sugar, vanilla and salt and mix well.
- Now add everything together and mix well till they combine to become thick and homogeneous in nature.
- Divide the batter evenly inside the muffin cups and place them inside the oven. Baking takes about 18-20 minutes after which the cakes are ready to come out.
- Once out keep them aside for cooling
- Now in a separate bowl add peanut butter, sugar, vanilla and salt and mix well till they become creamy. Then add cream to the mix and continue to stir till we get a light and smooth batter.
- By the time this creamy batter is made the cakes would have cooled down. Now make small holes on the cupcakes and fill them with this peanut butter frosting
Your dark chocolate cupcakes is ready to be served

The popularity of this sweet dish has increased so much that according to Google, cupcake recipes are the most searched recipes in the world. So go forward and enjoy your sweet treat in the cup whether you are a child or an adult.
June 13, 2014
Pulaos
Rice does to a meal, what ornaments do to a woman! An ordinary meal turns into a treat if a little imagination is used in preparation. Rice can be used to prepare a plethora of dishes – biryanis, pulaos, tahirees, stir fried rice and so on.

Pulaos are famous Indian rice dish of Persian origin. It is basically rice sautéed in a little oil or ghee and then cooked along with vegetables. Good quality basmati rice along with Indian herbs and spices are mandatory for this preparation. The rules remains the same; 1 cup of uncooked rice = 3 cups of cooked rice. Also, before cooking, rice must be soaked atleast 30 mins prior to cooking. This not only reduces time for cooking but also ensures that the rice does not stick after it is cooked. Once the pan is covered, cook on very low flame to ensure even cooking

Enough with the rules. Let’s get to the fun part. Some famous and healthy pulao recipes are as these given below.

I. Gobi Matar Paneer Pulao / Cauliflower Pea Cottage Cheese Pulao Serves 4

This variety of rice combines the taste and flavours of three nutritious ingredients with a perfect blend of spices. It is light on the stomach and fine to taste. It can be served with raita or eaten as it is

Ingredients

Basmati rice – 1 cup

Onion – 1 sliced finely

Oil – 2 tbsp

Bay leaf – 1 leaf

Ginger – 1/2″ sliced into juliens

Cloves – 2

Cauliflower – 1 cup medium sized florets

Shelled peas – 1 cup

Paneer – 1 cup

Chilli flakes – 1/4 tsp

Garam masala – 1/2 tsp

Salt – 1 1/2 tsp

Procedure
- In a heavy bottomed pan, fry the cauliflower till golden brown. Remove from oil and soak the excess oil on tissue sheets. Repeat the procedure for the paneer. After frying, soak the paneer in hot salted water to make them soft.
- In the same oil, add the whole spices and onions and fry till golden brown.
- At this stage, add the vegetables and stir lightly. Drain the rice and add to the pan. Stir the rice gently. With 1 cup rice, add 2 cups of water
- Add the powdered spices and boil the mixture.
- On boiling, cover the pan and continue cooking on very low heat for 12-13 mins until the water is completely absorbed and the rice is cooked to perfection.
II. Wadi and Matar Pulao / Pulse rolls and Pea Pulao Serves 4

Urad or any regular dal wadi is used extensively in Indian cookery. These can be innovatively used even in your regular pulaos. Not only does it add to the nutrition in food, but it also makes the dish look truly unique

Ingredients

Basmati rice – 1 cup

Oil – 1 sliced finely

Bayleaf – 1 leaf

Ginger – 1/2″ sliced into juliens

Garlic – 2 cloves

Cloves – 2

Wadi – 3/4 cup

Shelled peas – 1 cup

Cumin seeds – 1 tsp

Brown Cardamom – 2

Salt – 1 1/2 tsp

Procedure
- In a cooker, add I tbsp oil and fry the wadis till golden brown. Remove from oil and soak the excess oil on tissue sheets.
- Add a cup of water and pressure cook for 2-3 mins.
- In a heavy bottomed pan, add oil, the whole spices, ginger and garlic and fry till golden brown.
- At this stage, add the wadis and peas and stir lightly. Drain the rice and add to the pan. Mix gently. For 1 cup rice, add 2 cups of water left after cooking the wadis
- Boil the mixture.
- Cover the pan and cook on very low heat for 8-10 mins until the water is completely absorbed and the rice is cooked to perfection.
III. Kashmiri Pulao Serves 4

Faithful to its name, the dish combines the colours and flavours of the majestic and beautiful state of Kashmir. Enriched with rare and extravagant spices and fruits, this dish is both light on the palette as well as great to taste.

Ingredients

Basmati rice – 1 cup

Onion – 1 sliced finely

Oil – 2 tsp

Bayleaf – 1 leaf

Cinnamon – 1 stick

Cloves – 2

Green cardamom – 2-3

Saffron/ Kesar – few strands

Tinned fruit – 1 cup

Salt – 1 1/2 tsp

Procedure
- In a heavy bottomed pan, add oil, add the whole spices and onions and fry till golden brown.
- At this stage, drain the rice and add to the pan. Mix gently and fry for a while. For 1 cup rice, add 2 cups of water
- Boil the mixture.
- On boiling, cover the pan and continue cooking on very low heat until the water is completely absorbed and the rice is cooked to perfection. Add soaked saffron
- Drain the tinned fruit and mix with the cooked rice using a fork gently.
IV. Tamatar Kasooori Pulao / Tomato Fenugreek Pulao Serves 4

Fenugreek is much used in Indian cookery, both the seeds as well as the leaves. But the dried version is rarely used in pulaos. It is a great dish to try out for the health conscious and for people suffering from lifestyle diseases like diabetes.

Ingredients

Basmati rice – 1 cup

Oil – 2 tbsp

Cumin seeds – 1/2 tsp

Kasoori Methi / Dried Fenugreek Leaves – 2 tsp

Tomatoes – 1 cup

Salt – 1 1/2 tsp

Procedure
- In a heavy bottomed pan, add oil, add the whole spices and onions and fry till golden brown.
- At this stage, drain the rice and add to the pan. Mix gently and fry for a while. For 1 cup rice, add 2 cups of water
- Boil the mixture.
- On boiling, cover the pan and continue cooking on very low heat until the water is completely absorbed and the rice is cooked to perfection.
- Drain the tinned fruit and mix with the cooked rice using a fork gently.
V. Garden of Five Senses Serves 4

As the name suggests, this recipe is sure to ignite all five human senses. Owing to its colour, it provides interest to the eyes; the magical aroma is sure to arouse the sense of smell; the taste is sure heavenly; the crackling of spices and aromatic oils from the masalas are music to the ears thereby arousing the sense of hearing and finally, its texture is so smooth that its sure to activate the sense of touch and feel of every single grain of rice

Ingredients

Basmati rice – 1 cup

Spring Onion – 4-5 sliced finely (keep the greens separately)

Oil – 2 tbsp

Bayleaf – 1 leaf

Ginger – 1/2″ sliced into juliens

Garlic – 2 cloves

Cauliflower – 1 cup

Shelled peas – 1 cup

Bread slice – 1 slice cut into small squares

Pomegranate – 3/4 cup

Garam masala – 1 tsp

Salt – 1 1/2 tsp

Baby Corn – 1/2 cup

Capsicum – 1 cup

Procedure
- Pressure cook the baby corn along with one cup water and salt for 5-7 mins.
- In a heavy bottomed pan, add oil and deep fry separately, the bread pieces, cauliflower florets, and paneer cubes till golden brown. Remove on frying and keep in absorbent sheets to soak excess oil
- In the same pan, add the whole spices and stir for a while. Add the onions, ginger, garlic and fry till golden brown. Reduce the flame and add the powdered spices and salt.
- Add the drained corn, capsicum, peas, cauliflower and paneer pieces and mix gently.
- At this stage, drain the rice and add to the pan. Mix gently and fry for a while. For 1 cup rice, add 2 cups of water
- Boil the mixture.
- On boiling, cover the pan and continue cooking on very low heat until the water is completely absorbed and the rice is cooked to perfection.
June 13, 2014
Eating: All under Control

Do you feel Eating is out of control and you don’t have sovereignty over your appetite? You aren’t alone. There are many out there feeling the same and struggling everyday to overcome over-eating and stick to their diet plans. Over-eating isn’t the reason alone for obesity and other health and body shape related problems, but appetizing over junk food is the culprit of obesity and increasing weight. They seem so attractive that it becomes difficult to resist them, be it, burgers, hot dogs, French fries, ice creams, cheese pizzas and other unlimited processed and frozen foods. Overeating or uncontrollable eating is a form of eating disorder called as Binge Eating. In binge eating, people consume unusually large amounts of food. It can be characterized as feeling that eating is out of control or being secretive about what is eaten and when or eating to the point that you feel uncomfortable. Prolonged binge eating can be harmful and can lead to diabetes, heart related disease, gall bladder disease, bone and joint problems etc. If you have any symptoms like this or have fallen prey to binge eating, there is need to worry, but here are some techniques mentioned through which you can have control on your appetite.

I know for a fact that when you have a plate full of chocolaty cookies in front of you in your direct access, walking away from it sounds good in theory but in practice feels like the hardest thing to do. But Not anymore, as we have these scientifically proven strategies for crunching in moderation.
Recognize your true hunger: Sometimes, we eat out of craving or when we are famished, but most of the time we chew up because we are upset, Bored or attracted by something that looks good and irresistible. Realize and learn that Hunger is what you feel in your stomach when it’s empty, But if the feeling is coming out of head or mouth, then it’s most probably not hunger. A “tofu-test” is recommended which means if a block of tofu feels appetizing, you are likely to be hungry.
Eat that works for you in a good way: Now a days, many healthy foods are available, but this doesn’t mean you have to try and eat each one of them. Yes, its true that food which works and gives nourishment to one person can have the opposite effect on other person due to different body-types. It better if you figure out what nourishes you, suits you and energizes you and gives you pleasure.
Bring a change in your perspective: You see a piece of chocolate cake but you will convince yourself not to have it because it’s not in your diet schedule. However, your inner voice opposes you and pops up, saying “ I can have whatever I want to and here is cake and I love it” and you end up eating two slices when you were supposed to eat just half or one piece. Avoid this and assure yourself that you can have one slice to begin with, enjoying every delicious bite. This way eating the irresistible sweeter foods can be brought under control.
Always follow 25 percent rule: According to Dr. Wansink,” My research has found that if you eat just one quarter of something and then distract yourself for 15 minutes, you feel just as satisfied as when you eat the whole thing.” So if you fancy about chocolate chip cookies , better to break off a piece and put the rest of it back in box and then go to bathroom, check your mail or make a call, do anything that can take off your mind from sugary treat.
Practice positive reinforcement: Very first, create two healthy habits like trade-off a high calorie processed food for a fruit or vegetable delight or don’t use a plate larger than nine and a half inches in diameter for yourself when having food. And then positively, reward yourself for the consistent good behavior and not for the kilograms lost. For every day, you make a positive change, reward yourself with something that isn’t related to food, such a hair spa or anything you like.
Prevent Multi-tasking: When you eat, focus solely on what you’re chewing and relish each bite, you’re less likely to overeat and can control your cravings. Quit eating while driving, watching tv, standing next to refrigerator, or working at your computer, instead sit down at a table and eat with calm mind and chew every bite nicely.
Contemplate the ultimate outcome: Always think beforehand, that you have to bear the consequences if you don’t gauge your eating. When you see a really delicious, irresistible don’t savor it out of attraction and how good it will taste, rather focus how it will make you feel after you eat it. Sometimes, its better to skip the craving in order to avoid the repercussions.

If you try and put just a little extra effort, you can eat as you want and as per your taste, without even disturbing your diet cycle and can claim your control over different appetizers, no matter where you go and how lovely food you get to eat. Just be little mindful and conscious and little bit cautious. After all, its your body which demands to be maintained and yes, you can enjoy your life only when you eat in moderation and consistency is maintained. Simply, don’t be anxious about eating, be careful and love your eating.
Happy Eating. Happy Life.

June 13, 2014
McDonalds – I’m Lovin’ It
McDonald’s

Can you imagine without Happy Meals,Chicken McNuggets?No!!That much popular is McDonald’s lately.It created a sensation in food chain and got popularity and now spread across world.A man named Ray Kroc started from a small burger restaurant restaurant in California city and his journey started until it reached world’s leading fast food chain spreading across 118 countries having more than 35,000 restaurants and serving more than 70 million people a day.

The Story behind McDonald’s:

Ray Kroc

Ray Kroc,in 1954 was a small food salesperson and begun franchising his business which now became an international business.Ray Kroc,started his career from a small burger restaurant in California and he was once giving milkshakes to McDonald brothers,Richard and Maurice and these two began regular customers and best ones as they purchased his machines when his business was dying.Kroc was confused as they were purchasing and he suggested them the brothers to expand their visibility and he gave his services as their agents and the journey of their restaurants started with big yellow arches and spread across the United States.

Even Kroc was not the one behind the development of the chain restaurants,he initiated it and developed the plan and transformed his small hamburger restaurant consisting of burgers,fries,shakes into a vast empire.He was the chairman of McDonald’s until 1984,the year he passed away.Also,he sticked his morals and kept it consistent with cleanliness and also he made it available for the people of low class to afford their meals.

McDonalds’ Logo:

McDonald’s logo is familiar and very famous as the fast food.This logo has become a cultural icon with globalism,capitalism of Americans and it is one of the top brand on the earth.

In 1948,the McDonald’s brothers started fast food known as Speede Service System where they designed a winking character of chef.This served burgers and fries.

McDonald’s

In 1952,Stanley Meston designed their first franchised outlet with golden arches added to both sides of the building forming a letter M.It was officially corporated at 1961 by Ray Kroc.

McDonald’s

In 2003,the most successful logo has been evolved by Heye & Partner with a caption-I’m Lovin’ It introduced to Uk,Australia,US.It has become more popular and also many advertising campaigns were conducted which elevated its popularity.

Attractions of McDonalds:

happy meals

toys of happy meals

McDonalds attracts the customers by gaining their belief.They give many offers regarding which draws the attention of the customers.Happy Meals is the one which has been increasing its popularity now-a-days.The sales of Happy Meals is 10% there.As kids are interested in fast food centers,they brought out a special package known as Happy Meals.To draw a kids attention,we need to connect them emotionally.So,with every Happy Meal,a toy comes with them which is making a great influence on children and they love to buy them so that they can collect toys.

food items of mcdonald’s

McDonalds is also offering such as McCafe for coffees and beverages.It offers some coupons and vouchers.Also,for a time period,it offered free coffee to its customers.These simple techniques makes the customers attract towards McDonalds.It is a smart and largest fast food chain.

Some facts about McDonalds:
- The 100th McDonalds opened in Chicago.
- McDonald’s was the first restaurant of UK which introduced nutritional information throughout the country for the sake of customer’s benefits.
- The world’s first fast food ski in Lindvallen resort of Sweden was opened by McDonald’s.
- McDonald’s is the largest distributor of toys in the world and is favorite restaurant for most of the American Kids including 20% of its sales.
- America alone consumes five and a half million head of cattle(beef) in an year.
- It is said that the McDonald’s daily customer count of 62 million is more than the population of Great Britain.
- It has unique items in every country.
- The golden arches of McDonald’s are recognized by many people more than the cross.
- McDonald’s revenue is the 90th world’s largest economy in the world.
- The Queen of England owns drive-thru to McDonald’s.
- 1 out of 8 Americans are employed by McDonald’s.
- It serves more than 75 burgers per second.
mcdonald’s

Even though,McDonald’s has been one of the popular restaurant in the world.It is famous for their attractive offers,some special attractions like Ronald and proposing new marketing strategies which is the sole development of this franchise..At the time of the recession,it is said that the food is very unhealthy and lacked in nutritions as most of the food is refrigerated for a long time which is leading to obesity which made the sales to decline.After realizing the mistake,now the McDonald’s have been improving towards healthy food. The past McDonald’s which only served fast food such as hamburgers,cheese burgers,chicken,french fries,milk shakes,desserts,BigMacs now also came to healthier foods like salads,fruit mix,wraps,smoothies,seasoned fries and improving their venture.
June 12, 2014
Ghee rice recipe

The main food item in south India is rice,using this rice there are many recipes prepared depending on the locality and taste.One of the most popular rice made recipe is ghee rice which is made by many people instantly in their homes.Because of its easy making,less time taking process and most adorable taste many of the busy people prefer making this at their home.This process is so simple because of the usage of a pressure cooker,it reduces the cooking time and also reduces the complications and mess that no one would like during busy hours.This is one of the best one which is very easy to make and makes a very good lunch box recipe so that people with busy working hours can do it for their children and for them which saves their valuable time.

Famous south Indian ghee rice recipe

Ghee is a classified form of butter that is firstly originated in India and spread to many other countries.It is commonly being used in many countries like Pakistan,Bangladesh,Nepal,Srilanka many other other countries.The name Ghee is originated from Sanskrit and depending on the regional languages its name is followed by their regional slang.It is prepared from the extract of a residue from milk called butter.Ghee is prepared by simmering butter and removing the residue aside.The main quality factor of Ghee depends on quality of butter and the duration of its boiling.

Home made ghee

This Ghee has wide range of applications.It are used widely in India in various dishes which adds a better flavor of taste to the food items.In making sweets they get enriched taste because of this.Many people mix in rice along with pickle to enjoy the taste of food.It has high fat content about 8 mg of cholesterol for one table spoon of Ghee.

Ingredients:

1) One cup of Basmati Rice

2) One cup of finely chopped Onion

3) One small Cinnamon stick (which adds its flavor)

4) Two to Three Cloves (lavangam)

5) One Green Cardamom (Yaalakkaya)

6) Half teaspoon Black Peppercorns (Miriyal podi)

7) One small Bay Leaf (Biryani Aku)

8) Four to Five Cashew Nuts

9) Three to Four Raisins (Endu Draksha)

10) One teaspoon crushed Ginger Garlic

11) One Green Chili Finely chopped

12) One tablespoon Ghee (Clarified butter)

13) Two cups of water

14) salt required amount

Ghee rice Ingredients required

Procedure:

We can find many versions of Ghee rice around different parts of India.Different type of recipes involve different type of making process.In few types the rice is cooked in ghee with spices and some recipes call for seasoning the spices in ghee and adding the steamed rice like the fried rice.If we go for Andhra style of making we need only pepper powder and no other spice is used.This can be cooked by using egg or without egg depending on our requirement.The main taste for this Ghee rice comes from the flavor of pepper and curry leaves fried in ghee.

Step 1:

For the better taste we can go for Basmati rice for effective making of this ghee rice.At the first step we have to wash the rice grains thoroughly for about two to three minutes in mineral water to remove the excess starch and dust particles present in the rice.Now keep the rice in a bowl and pour fresh water up to one third of rice and leave it to soak them for 20 minutes.because of this washing we can also avoid sticking of rice grains while cooking process.After the completion of twenty minutes leave the soaked rice to get drained.

Washing process of Basmati rice

Step 2:

As the first step has completed then keep that drained rice aside, now pressure cooker on the stove and take two spoons of ghee in it.On the stove and heat this ghee until it melts and then add cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, black peppercorns and a piece of bay leaf.all these are stirred in that pressure cooker until their color changes to brown or gold color.Now take the chopped onion and they are stirred along with the ingredients until their color changes.

Preparing Ghee rice and deep fry chopped onions

Step 3:

To this onion, cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, black peppercorns and a piece of bay leaf mixture that we have prepared add a cup of cashew nuts, raisins, crushed ginger garlic and chopped green chilies and mix them thoroughly by keeping the flame low for about one minute.Now at this stage add drained rice to the pressure cooker.Now add salt to taste and 2 cups of water.Mix them properly and close the lid.The cooking process must be done for at least two whistles.

adding drained rice to it

Step 4:

After the whistles are out you have to turn off the flame and leave the pressure cooker aside without taking the lid out and leave it undisturbed so that the pressure in it come down naturally.for this process to go on it takes at least 5 to 8 minutes.Now you can open the lid and stir it carefully once to get mixed the cashew nuts and other ingredients.That’s it tasty and spicy ghee rice is ready to eat.Now take it to ta serving plate and we can add decorations to it by using carrot or tomato.

Ghee rice in a serving plate

June 11, 2014
Delicious South Indian Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken Tikka masala most of the people favorite dish and a delightful place in menu of every restaurant was first originated from a Indian restaurant in United kingdom.A person named Rahul Varma a street food expert in Delhi was the first person who is responsible for the origination of this mouth watering dish.A chef belong to Pakistan named Ali Ahmed Aslam invented chicken tikka masala by the thought of making something different from routine and he added a sauce made of yogurt,cream and spices.Actually the invention has gone through a small story.One day a bus driver during night off shift came to their restaurant and have ordered a chicken curry.As he observed that the chicken being dry he sent back the waiter to bring another one.At the time he wanted to try something new and he added some tomato soup into the curry with some chicken pieces.This was served to the bus driver then he astonishingly ate that with absolute love.After that incident has happened he also used to visit along with his friends came again and again,then itself they have included it in their menu.

Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

If you love to eat Indian food items then it is advisable to take a look at chicken tikka masala which is a most delicious and spicy item found in every Indian restaurant as a favorite item in their menu.This popular chicken dish with its creamy,aromatic tomato sauce originated in Delhi,India, in the middle of the last century.In India,the dish is famously known as chicken makhanwalla,here makhan in Hindi means butter,but in Britain,this dish was renamed chicken tikka masala they named it so because tikka refers to boneless and masala means spices.thus the name originated.

Ingredients:

1) 1 cup plain yogurt,mixed well till it comes to soft state
2) 3 tablespoons of Ginger Garlic Paste this recipe can also prepared by taking ginger and clove mixed
3) 1 teaspoon kosher salt
4) 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
5) 1 pound boneless,skinless chicken thighs,poked with a fork,and cut into large bite sized chunks

chicken tikka masala ingredients

Sauce:

1) 2 teaspoons olive oil

2) 3 tablespoons butter
3) 1/3 cup Ginger-Garlic Paste, recipe follows (or 6 cloves garlic and 2-inch thumb ginger minced)
4) 2 serrano peppers, minced (seeds removed if you don’t want it spicy)
5) 2 tablespoons tomato paste
6) 1 teaspoon garam masala
7) 2 teaspoons paprika
8) 8 Roma tomatoes, diced
9) 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
10)1 to 2 cups water
11) Oil, for grilling
12) 1 tablespoon dried fenugreek leaves (optional)
13) 1/2 cup heavy cream
14) Minced fresh cilantro, for garnish
15) Cooked rice, naan, or crusty piece of bread, for serving
16)Ginger-Garlic Paste:
17) 1/2 cup cloves garlic, whole
18) 1/2 cup fresh ginger, peeled, cut into 1/2-inch slices
19) 1/4 cup canola oil

Preparation:

It just takes 45 minutes to prepare an outstanding Chicken tikka masala who desired to make it.It is fresh,healthy,cheaper,and tastier than anything at this time and cost.

Step 1:

For the process of Chicken tikka masala we have to first take the boneless chicken breast or thigh part which is most suitable for the preparation of this recipe.In the first step of preparation of Chicken tikka masala we have to take a large deep bowl where we can mix the spicy ingredients and the chopped chicken pieces.Now mix both of them well to form a soft mixture and leave it marinated for at least 30 minutes or keep it in the refrigerator undisturbed for overnight.

Step 2:

Once you are ready with the marinated topic then next step is to make curry out of it.Place the pan and heat it at medium flame and add olive oil and butter to it and stir it continuously so that the butter gets mixed with the olive oil.as the butter melts then add the Ginger Garlic Paste and serrano peppers.Mix them until the color of them changes and becomes brown or golden color around their edges.Now add some tomato paste to this ingredients and cook well for about 3 minutes until the tomato becomes darkened in color.For this mixture add few more things like garam masala,paprika and saute for about 1 minute to draw out their flavors.

chicken marination

Step 3:

To this ingredients and masala mixture add small pieces of chopped tomatoes,salt,and 1 cup water.They are heated heated to the required level until water boils then lower the flame.Now cook this entire recipe for about 20 minutes.Here the amount of water that we have to take depends on the liquid that comes from tomatoes.

Preparation of chicken tikka masala

Step 4:

as the process is going on heat up the grill until it becomes a little hot.When it became nice and hot lightly have a brush for it with the oil.The chicken is taken and is placed on the heated grill,shaking off some of the excess marinade.The chicken is cooked a little on this grill but there is no need to worry the remaining gets cooked in the sauce process.

step 5:

Heat a skillet till it becomes quite hot then add half tablespoon of peanut oil.The entire cooking process can be done in two things.The first involves cooking of chicken breasts by turning them repeatedly for about 6 to 8 minutes until they become brown in color.Now after they are toasted move the pieces of chicken to a bowl and then clean the griddle or skillet,then cook the remaining chicken by adding the remaining half tablespoon peanut oil.As all of the chicken is cooked now add this cooked pieces to sauce and continue to gently stir it.this process must be done occasionally for 5 minutes.The final stage is to remove the pan from the heat and stir in the black pepper,chopped cilantro and season with salt.

Step 6:

Finally our Chicken tikka masala recipe is prepared and it is then transferred to a serving dish and garnish with additional items according to the interest.They are best to be Served with naan,and is also desired with Basmati rice.

Chicken_Tikka_Masala_served with rice

June 11, 2014
Rava Khichdi a simple and comfort food

Khichdi is one of the India’s best comfort food available.In India mostly south India people eat things made out of rice as it is their abundant available product.There are many items made out of rice out of them one the most comfort and easily prepared food item is Khichdi.It is done at the time of breakfast or evenings mostly.Few people who are busy with their life make this recipe which consumes their time and has a great taste.The dish is mainly inspired from the Anglo Indian dish kedgeree.It is also said that it is a inspiration for the popular Egyptian dish Kushari.Khichdi was popular at the time of Mughals mainly Jahangir.

Rava Khichdi recipe

The word khichdi is originated from the Sanskrit word Khicca which means a combination of rice and pulses based dish.This Indian comfort food is considered as a light, nutritious meal, healthy food with exact amount of spices.This can be prepared and served to infants, sick people, and for the people which are really physically weak conditions.Most the people who follows Ayurveda appreciate it.We can see this Khichdi is a daily meal for some people in Gujarat and they make several varieties of it.

At first Mughals started this dish named khichdi and they made it rich by adding strong spices, dry fruits and nuts.The Britishers during their time modified this dish by adding fish and eggs to the ingredients.During their time they named this Khichdi as Kedgeree,which became a popular dish during their ruling.They used to have it as their breakfast and later it has spread to their country also.

Ingredients:

1) One cup of Rava

2) Three cups of water

3) Two table spoons of Oil

4) One to two table spoon of Ghee

5) 1/4 table spoon of Mustard seeds

6) Take two Green chilli

7) 1/4 table spoon of Channa dal

8) 1/4 table spoon of Urad dal

9) Salt required for taste

10) Chopped onion (long pieces)

11) One Tomato

12) Half Chopped carrot

13) Green Peas few

14) Turmeric powder 1/4 tsp

15) Curry leaves few

16) Cashew nuts few (optional)

Ingredients for the preparation of rava Khichdi

Preparation:

Rava Khichidi the mouth watering south Indian dish mostly prepared for breakfast.But few south Indians prepare it irrelevant of the time during breakfast,lunch,evening snacks time,dinner.It can be prepared for any meal of the day.Few people take it along with coffee by which they enjoy its taste.Generally in most of the south Indian weddings they serve this rava kichadi with sambar and chutney as an accompaniment dish.The taste changes for every place and it depends on they way of preparation.Some got talent in making a perfect rava Khichdi and some are not good in making it.Try learning how to make a perfect khichdi to enjoy its complete taste.This is generally prepared by using Ghee but if we use a mixture of oil and ghee it reduces the excess calories.One can try to do this for a small change instead of making usual vegetable rava upma.

Step 1:

At first we have to roast the rava in a pan by taking one table spoon of ghee and make a deep fry until you get a nice aroma of roasted rava.We can skip this step if you have bought roasted rava from the shop.Chop all the vegetables finely and keep them aside for further process.Take a kadai and heat the Ghee and oil mixture and stir it for two minutes then add bengal gram to it and fry them till their color changes slightly.Now add mustard seeds,urad dal and curry leaves to it and saute them well until they turn their color to brown.Now add finely chopped onions, slit chillies and ginger.Make a deep fry of all these ingredients to turn their color.Now add all the finely chopped vegetables and turmeric powder.

Rava khichdi preparation process

Step 2:

This vegetables are cooked with the ingredients and saute them for two to three minutes.Make sure the vegetables are not over cooked as they have to be cooked along with rava again so let them be half cooked.Now to this mixture add three cups of water and add salt that is sufficient for taste as it different from one to one.While cooking we can check the taste as the salt is sufficient or not depending on that we have to add more water or salt.But if the water is quite salty don’t add water just leave it as we add the rava it will be perfect.

Rava khichdi making-adding three cups of water and saute

Step 3:

The cooking process is continued until the water bubbles comes then reduce the flame and now we have to add rava slowly to this boiling water with one hand and care should be taken that the boiling water should not fall on hand.While adding rava to the boiling water stir it continuously with the other hand to avoid formation of lumps.This stirring is done till it forms a semi solid state then add a table spoon of ghee on the top of it and stir it completely so that the ghee gets mixed in it.Do this process till the water completely gets absorbed and then close the lid and cook it in a low flame then turn off the flame.That’s it we have preparead most delicious south Indian recipe rava khichdi.Move it to a serving plate and enjoy the taste.we can have it with raita as a great combination.

Rava-Khichidi-with raita

June 11, 2014
For the love of Chocolate!

That silky, smooth, velvety, so yum, exotic thing, we can’t resist is CHOCOLATE. Just the addition of Chocolate can make anything to everything delicious. It is such a thing that everyone craves and loves. It can lift up your mood and has the goodness of antioxidants. Chocolates are lovable and are a sheer bliss to humanity.
For the love of chocolate, here are some too popular chocolate delights, easy to make at home and are fancied too.

CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES

(Recipe)

Preparation time: 20 minutes Servings: 25 Cooking time: 15 minutes
Ingredients: 1 and half cup chocolate chips
Four ½ cup flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
½ cup white sugar
1 and half cup brown sugar
2 cups butter, softened
2 packages instant vanilla pudding mix
4 cups dark chocolate, chopped.

Procedure: Sift together flour and baking soda. Set aside.
In a large bowl, mix butter, brown sugar, white sugar. Beat in the instant pudding mix until blended. Add eggs and vanilla in the creamed mixture. Now, blend in the flour mixture which was kept aside after being sifted. Finally, stir in the chopped dark chocolate, chips and nuts.
Drop cookies by rounded spoonfuls onto ungreased baking sheets or parchment paper.
Put it in the preheated oven at 350 degrees for 10 to 12 minutes for soft or crunchy cookie as per your taste. Edges should be golden brown, it will look nice.
This is a true chocolate lover’s cookie and can add optional ingredients like walnuts or almonds or pecans or white chocolate. Large chunks of chocolate chips is what make them extra special. Famish it. Bake it and Eat it all by yourself.

DARK CHOCOLATE SAUCE

(Recipe)

Preparation time: 15 minutes Serves: 10
Ingredients: 6 ounces Dark chocolate bar, broken into pieces (77% dark chocolate)
Half cup sugar
Half cup water
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ounce butter
8 tablespoons heavy cream
Procedure: Stir in water and sugar in small pan. Simmer over low heat and stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves in water and forms a simple syrup.
Transfer the simple syrup on the top of double boiler over a low heat, slowly add pieces of dark chocolate and butter, whisking occasionally until the chocolate is melted.
Slowly add in vanilla and cream until fully blended and smooth.
Keep stirring and when it is smooth. It is ready to serve. Serve it warm.
This glossy dark chocolate sauce has a rich bittersweet chocolate flavor and is perfect treat for dark chocolate lovers. As, having rich cocoa content of dark chocolate, it has antioxidant benefits in good amount. Having velvety smooth texture, it tastes wonderful when served warm dribbled over icecreams.

CHOCOLATE ICE CREAM
(Recipe)

Preparation time: 1hour + freezing time
Ingredients: 1 cup sugar
2 ½ cup milk (with full cream)
2 tablespoon cocoa powder
1 tablespoon custard powder
½ teaspoon vanilla essence
1 cup nuts, cherries or berries to garnish
Procedure: Mix custard, sugar and cocoa in half cup of milk.

Heat the remaining milk and when it comes to boil, add custard mixture and boil again stirring continuously otherwise lumps are formed.
When it boils, simmer the gas for 30 seconds, shut off the heat and leave it to cool down.
When it reaches room temperature, mix the cream and vanilla essence and transfer onto a container with a tight lid.
Freeze it in refrigerator till almost set, then take out and whip up in a blender and place it back in the same container into the freezer.
The lid should be tightly shut as it prevents the crystals from forming. Blend once more when almost set and place back in freezer. You can adjust the cooling to normal in about two hours after the blending.
Serve it by garnishing nuts and cherries.
Scream, scream Icecream is like perfect treat on a hot day. Chilled icecream when made at home becomes more special and everyone loves it. Especially children. Chill out with the chilling effect of the chocolate icecream!
After all these easy to make recipes at home, I know craving for them is at peak. These are super easy, super awesome, yum and delicious recipes with the loveliness and richness of chocolate and its chillness and warmth . Its a perfect treat for children and your loved ones. No occasion required, just make them, freeze them, bake them whenever you want to. You don’t need a reason to put these recipes into practice in your kitchen. They are just all time comfy, cosy, rich and creamy, chocolaty recipes. If its long time you havn’t been in your kitchen, then just go Start making and baking it. Put on that apron and use your wit. Be creative and add your stuff too in these recipes. You never know what magnificent taste you come out with. You can even dip the chocolate chip cookies in dark chocolate sauce or you can even drizzle this sauce on the chocolate icecream. In a way, these recipes are connected and enjoyed with one another. For me, cooking is happiness and I get excited and calm at the same time whenever I get time to cook. Cooking is worth it, So make some time out of your busy schedule and start with these Chocolaty desserts. You will love it and people in your life too.
Keep cooking, Baking, Eating and Partying.

June 11, 2014
Red is the colour I’m looking for!

Red is the colour of passion. One sees red when they’re angry and one picks up a red heart to show that they love someone. Love and hatred, two sides of the same coin, can be expressed by a single colour – red. So when it’s someone’s birthday and you want to show your love for them by baking, why go with the classic chocolate cake? Maybe it’s time to get a little more creative. Show your love with the colour red. Bake a red-velvet cake!

Even though it sounds like a complicated thing to make, a red velvet cake is perhaps one of the easiest cakes to make apart from the classic chocolate or vanilla cake . A red velvet cake is basically a light chocolate cake with red colouring in it. A red velvet cakes speaks out and shows that it’s a special occasion cake because if you bake regularly, then you need a special recipe to mark a special occasion. A red and fluffy cake is perhaps one of the easiest and also one of the prettiest way to mark a special occasion. However, there are no rules against baking and indulging in this cake without a special occasion. The melt-in-the-mouth buttercream frosting used in this recipe is one of the most amazing comfort food that you can ask for.

so to celebrate or to indulge with style, here’s what you will need:

ingredients :

1 cup all purpose flour

1 cup sugar

¾ cup vegetable oil

2 large eggs

¼ cup milk

1 teaspoon cocoa powder

1 teaspoon baking powder

¼ teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon red food colour

Once you have everything, mix the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder and the food colour in a bowl.

In a separate bowl, mix the eggs, milk and the oil.

Once done, mix both of them together.

If the batter is too thick, add some warm milk.

Make sure the batter is not too dark in colour because the cake gets darker after it’s baked.

Grease and flour a pan and bake the cake at 350°F for 30-35 minutes or until wooden pick inserted comes out clean and dry.

Let the cake cool for around ten minutes before taking it out of the pan. While it’s cooling, pour yourself a drink and sip at it, Nigella Lawson style. Or you can catch up on wrapping up those gifts or putting up finishing touches to the birthday decorations. If you’re not doing any of these, you could make the frosting for the cake. The perfect frosting for a red velvet cake, in my opinion, is butter-cream frosting.

To make the butter-cream frosting, you will need:

100 gm butter

1 cup icing sugar

2 tablespoons all purpose flour

1 cup cold milk

(if the butter is unsalted, you will also need a pinch of salt)

Soften the butter by either leaving it out for a while or by heating it up in the microwave for ten seconds.

Add the salt, if you’re using unsalted butter.

Add the icing sugar and beat until it’s light and fluffy.

Mix the flour in the cold milk. Heat it on a low flame while stirring constantly. If the mixture is not being stirred constantly, it will form lumps.

Once the mixture is thick and cooked, let it cool. Cover it while it is getting cooled so that it does not form a crust.

Once it has cooled, add it to the butter and sugar and beat. This mixture will provide the extra volume and fluffiness without the extra butter.

Before applying the frosting on the cake, make sure that the cake is cold or else the frosting will melt off. Dip a knife in warm water and use it to smooth-en the surface of the cake.

Cover the cake with the frosting. If you’re making a layered cake, apply some frosting between the layers as well. Sprinkle some brown sugar or nuts for decorations. Pop it in the fridge for an hour to make sure the frosting sets well. Take it out, put it on a plate and you’re ready to celebrate!

When you come to think of it, a red velvet cake is just a chocolate cake which is red in colour. But when you present it to someone you love, it says a lot more than a chocolate cake. Unless that person is a chocoholic, in which case, you should just go with the chocolate cake because the warm brown of chocolates is what will really please that person. Otherwise, nothing can express your love more that a red velvet cake simply because it is the universally known colour for love, for passion. It also brings a little variety and adds a little difference to the regular cakes which are either brown or white. It is also the perfect cake for kids because for a little child, it is fascinating to be able to eat something red and delicious because, let’s face it, most of the kids out there don’t really like tomatoes.

Everyone loves a little colour in their lives and perhaps the colour you’re looking for this time is red. Try it out and let us know if it worked for you!

Bon appetit!

June 11, 2014
Chandigarh on a roll.

Chandigargh-Pinjore-Anand Sahib

Chandigarh, the city of French architect Le Corbusier, is best known for being India’s most planned urban developments. The shared capital of Punjab and Haryana, it lies at foothills of the Shivalik range and offers options for easy getaways. That’s what this itinerary is all about.

Day 1: Chandigarh

Get into town

Arrive in Chandigarh and check into a city hotel that will make sightseeing convenient. We recommend the newly opened JW Marriott in Sector 35 B. Freshen up, put on your walking shoes and get ready to see the city of Corbusier. Entrusted with creating a blueprint for Chandigarh, he envisaged a city of planned residential blocks, grid-pattern streets, several gardens and public spaces. Begin at Capitol Complex, the administrative quarters and a grand expression of Corbusier’s work. Break for lunch; you are never short of places serving hearty, affordable Punjabi khaana in the city centre. Later, drive around the city, taking in the architecture. A visit to the Le Corbusier Centre is also recommended. Spend a relaxing evening in your hotel.

Day 2: Chandigarh sights

Distance:

Time Taken:

Today is for a tour of Chandigarh’s most popular attractions. They attract tourists by the scores and for a good reason. First, the Rock Garden, which houses figures and sculptures that are almost a symbol for Chandigarh. Nek Chand scoured the Shivalik hills for interestingly shaped pebbles and rocks, interspersed them with waste materials like glass shards and created this spectacle spread over 25 acres. After a break for lunch, wander off to Sukhna Lake, where the city gathers in the evening to stroll, unwind and just hang out. Head back to the hotel, before getting a taste of Chandigarh’s buzzy nightlife. Buzz, in Sector 17, is a good choice, with good drinks, food and a dance floor in case you want to groove a bit.

Day 3: Chandigarh gardens & museums

Chandigarh’s museums and galleries are as well-organized as the city itself. Take a tour of the Government Museum and Art Gallery in Sector 10 with its splendid collection of stone sculptures from the Gandhara period. Pre-historic fossils are another major attraction here. Then, there’s the Museum of Evolution of Life in Sector 10 that lets you travel back 5,000 years to the Indus Valley Civilization. The International Dolls Museum in Sector 23 has a colourful collection that children will especially love. Devote the second half of the day to a relaxing stroll through the city’s beautifully laid-out gardens, such as the Zakir Hussain Rose Garden and the Garden of Fragrance in Sector 36 which lives up to its name. As the day winds down, get to sector 17; the sleek shopping area, dotted with fountains and sculptures, becomes one big outdoor club every night. There are drinking and dining options aplenty here.

Day 4: Prakriti Farms

Distance: 45 kms

Time: 1 hour (by road)

Drive out to this organic farm which nestles in the lower Shivaliks and is set amidst forestland on all sides. Accommodation is in Swiss cottage tents and safari tents . Take a farm tour and see environment-friendly farming practices at work. Dine on delicious Punjabi food prepared from vegetables grown on the farm. You could also catch a Sufi music performance in the evening. It’s the perfect green getaway and antidote to city stress.

Day 5: Pinjore

Distance: 25 kms

Time: 30 minutes (by road)

It’s picnic time. Make the short drive from Chandigarh to Pinjore Gardens, also called Yadavindra Gardens. Carry a picnic lunch. With its scenic location at the foothills of the lower Shivalik range, this is a garden created in the Mughal style. Stroll amidst the plant nurseries and Japanese garden and picnic on the lawns. Return to Chandigarh for the night.

Day 6: Hidden Valley

Distance: 8 kms

Time: 20 minutes (by road)

After a relaxing day in the gardens, it’s time for some adventure. It’s at Hidden Valley, an eco-tourism centre in the Shivalik foothills. The famous Mata Jainti Devi temple is nearby. At Hidden Valley, you are surrounded by nature. Go trekking, mountain-biking and take cart rides. This day trip is perfectly suited for children as well. Return to Chandigarh.

Day 7: Anandpur Sahib

Distance: 85 kms

Time: 1 and half hours (by road)

Anandpur Sahib, one of the most sacred spots for Sikhs, is serene and calming, even with the hundreds of devotees who throng the place. Walk its marble corridors and say a quiet prayer, or meditate. After a break for lunch, travel to see the Gurudwara Qila Taragarh Sahib, a graceful fort that sits atop a hill. You’ll be surrounded by spectacular views all around. Get back to Chandigarh in time for your return trip.

——

Do: A boat ride on Sukhna Lake may seem like a touristy thing to do. But try it, it’s utterly enjoyable.

Eat: Can’t leave Chandigarh without tucking into its most-famous food export. The butter chicken at Pal Dhaba in Sector 28 is rated among the best by locals.

Shop: Phulkari is Punjab’s beautiful embroidery. Buy shawls and dupattas at the Punjab Emporium in Sector 17.

Plus Says

Best time to go: Mid-August to November is a good time to visit Chandigarh, especially if you prefer mild weather to extreme. But the cold winters have their charm, too, and are a great time to indulge in rich, Punjabi fare.

Good to know:

Hop on hop off bus: This open-top double-decker bus service run by the Tourism Department is a convenient way to take in Chandigarh’s sights. It begins at Hotel Shivalik View, in Sector 17, and takes you to the Rose Garden, Museum and Art Gallery, Bouugainvillea Garden, Rock Garden and Sukhna Lake.

Permits: Special permits are required to enter some of the key buildings in the Capitol Complex. These can be had at the Tourism Bureau.

Girls’ nights out: Chandigarh’s pubs and bars are surprisingly women-friendly. So, think nothing of making a night out of it with your girl gang. The Blue Blazer in Sector 26 and Score in Sector 8 have rocking ladies nights.

Great getaways: While there’s plenty to do in the planned city of Chandigarh it also makes a convenient point from which to travel out of town. Some of the day trips and short trips from Chandigarh include those to the quiet hill station of Kasauli, the town of Barog and Renuka lake on the Kalka-Shimla highway and Morni Hills in the Shivalik range.

Tip: Both men and women must cover their heads and dress respectably when entering Gurudwaras. These welcome people of all religions and denominations.

Top Picks:

Cooking classes at Prakriti Farms: The organic farm, based on sustainable practices, offers cooking demos and classes in Punjabi cuisine. Sign up and get hands-on training in some classic dishes.

Cycling through the city: Chandigarh, with its dedicated lanes, is perfect for cycling. PedalChandigarh is an outfit that rents out bikes and also arranges cycling tours. Cycles are parked at ISBT, Sector 17.

Rock the night: With its late closing times, dance floors and discotheques, Chandigarh is a happy place for party types. Besides Buzz, check out also spots like Zinc Lounge in Sector 26.

Evenings at Sector 17: It’s a daily party in the piazza at Sector 17. Fountains light up, people gather, bars and restaurants buzz with activity. A recommended way to spend an evening in Chandigarh.

Gardens by night: You will enjoy attractions such as the Rose Garden by day. By night, these are lit up and allow access to visitors.

June 11, 2014