Tag: eat

Here is why you should stop eating bread

Bread is one such food item which we extensively use in our daily life. It is prepared by mixing flour with water. The mixture obtained is then baked. If you will look at the history of the bread you will find its existence in almost every civilization. People find bread as the easiest food option available in front of them, so whenever they feel hungry, they eat the dishes made using them. But most of the people are not aware that the white bread consumption affects the human health in many ways. It simply means that bread isn’t healthy at all and you should start avoiding bread instantly. Many research conducted on this topic have yielded the same result. It is so recommended by the dietitians to stop eating bread and instead go for other food items which are available. We will hereby give you some of the adverse effect which bread can cause on the human health.

Bread is a rich source of the protein named as Gluten which has the properties found in glue and it is responsible for the viscoelastic properties of the dough. It has been proved in various research conducted worldwide that those people who regularly eat bread have the excess amount of Gluten in their body. This in turn seriously damages the digestive tract which results in lots of pain, tiredness and inconsistency in stool. The Gluten also causes disorder in brain and people get affected by the cerebellar ataxia disease. So you should stop eating bread and go for other options that are available.

People believe that bread is made using grains and is healthy for the body but they are not aware that it is not made using actual whole grains. They are made using grains which have been pulverized so as to get fine flour. Because of this process the breads gets digested easily and moreover the starch present in the bread also breaks down and so they enter as glucose into the bloodstream. This results into the steep rise of the insulin and blood sugar which is not at all good for human body. Again when the blood sugar level comes down we feel hungry. That is why people who are dieting and those who are affected with the blood sugar disease should avoid it instantly. Moreover if the blood sugar level is above the permitted value, it results into the formation of glycation and it is one such component which results into aging.

Bread is deprived of any sort of nutrients which is beneficial for the human body. Bread contains fructose which if present in access amount affects the health. This is proved worldwide that bread has sugar in it which is not at all healthy. They also have phytic acid in it which is generally known as the anti-nutrient. This phytic acid if present in the body makes the minerals required by the human body for growth and development to get stick to each other and so they do not get absorbed. The human body produces two types of cholesterol. While one is bad for the human health, other one is actually good and its presence is required. If you are a regular bread consumer then it is likely that the LDL cholesterol of the body will increase by 60 % which is quite a big figure and for your information LDL cholesterol is in fact the bad cholesterol which we have in our body. So it makes you prone to the different diseases such as the heath and lung diseases.

In all the bottom line is bread is not at all good for you as it is not at all nutritious. If we compare bread with other food items which are easily available to us, bread lie below them in terms of essential nutrition and minerals that they provide. Since the acid formed due to the bread consumption damages the intestinal lining, the absorption of the minerals and nutrients is not carried on by the human body and consequently its deficiency causes various diseases.

While this may be a bad news for all those people who love to eat bread or the dishes made using breads, it is for their own safety and healthy body that we hereby ask them to stop eating bread. It is not that you should completely eliminate it from your diet but then the frequency with which you eat bread and bread products must be decreased. So the next time you feel like eating bread, just remember that it will not only affect the functioning of your digestive system but will also not allow you to lose weight. We have given enough evidence which clearly states the adverse effects the human body. Other than bread there are various food items which are available and if you will eat those then you will certainly have a healthy body. So go for those and stop eating bread. Stay healthy.

June 26, 2014
Red Meat: Is it really bad for your health?

Red meat is certainly one food item which has created a lot of controversies and people are divided on the basis of their opinions id it sis good or bad for the health. When the red meat is raw, it is of red color and moreover its color does not change to white after it is cooked. There had been many reports lately suggesting that red meat is not good for the human health and so people should immediately stop eating it. These reports have been prepared on the basis of observational studies. Almost all the meat which is obtained from the body of mammals is red meat as they have a high concentration of myoglobin in it. The red meat lovers are in dilemma that whether they should eat their favorite food or skip it for the sake of their health. Some people have claimed that these reports are not correct and if you eat unprocessed i.e. the fresh raw meat then there is no harm. You just have to pay attention towards the fat content and the preparation of the dishes made out of red meat as it is the best way you can stay protected and enjoy your favorite food. The processed red meats are the ones which undergo various processes such as the smoking, adding preservatives etc. after it is obtained from the animal’s body. Here we are discussing if the red meat is actually bad for the health or it is just a myth that people have.

Talking about the red meat it is a wonderful source of many essential nutrients and minerals which the human body needs. It is in fact the most nutritious food which is available. If you measure 100 grams of red meat, it will have the following minerals and nutrients in it. Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin), Vitamin D, Vitamin B3 (Niacin), Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine), Phosphorus, Iron (12 % of RDA), Zinc (32 % of RDA), Selenium (24 % of RDA), Creatine, Riboflavin, Thiamin and Lipoic acid. It also has the high calories and about 10 grams of fats in it. Those people who are vegetarians are deprived of certain nutrients such as Carnosine and Creatine. Red meat is a rich source of both these proteins which is essential for the timely development of human body. Red meat also increases the hemoglobin count in the blood and also helps in building and repairing of the muscles. The meat obtained from the body of the chickens, pigs and rabbits are actually white meat and it is also completely safe to eat.

There has been so many research conducted to verify if the red meat actually causes the so called cardiovascular diseases and diabetes which results into the death of the person. And every research has given us the report that these are just a myth and there is no evidence which can support these claims. But the catch here is that you should eat only those red meats which are unprocessed one. The processed red meats are unhealthy and they can therefore lead to you all these diseases. You have to clearly understand the distinction between the two and choose accordingly.

Another myth that people generally have is that red meat is one such food items whose consumption can increase the chances of cancer in the body. Generally people relate colorectal cancer with the red meat which is one of the most common cancers in today’s time. Although the careful studies conducted by the experts suggests that there is weak link between these two but since there is not enough evidence as the studies which have been conducted so far are the observational ones and so they cannot say that eating red meat will cause you colorectal cancer and this is actually a myth that people generally have.

Now for those people who love to eat red meat we hereby recommend that when you prepare any red meat dish, cook it at moderate temperature. The high temperature cooking can lead to the formation of the harmful compounds such as AGE, HA and PAH. These compounds can then harm your health. Any food item if cooked at high temperature will lead to the formation of these compounds in it. So go for the options such as the steaming and stewing. Further if you want to cook gravy dishes with red meat then first marinate it with the garlic or olive oil or red wine as this will reduce the formation of the HCA to a larger extent. When you start cooking, make sure that the meat is not overcooked and none of the pieces are burnt because of it. The burnt pieces must be thrown away. All these methods that have been mentioned here are for precautions. So eat unprocessed red meat by cooking it gently and make sure that they are not charred. Red meat is actually very healthy and if you are eating it frequently then I bet you will have a healthier body.

June 26, 2014
Health Benefits of Eating Eggs

Eggs are excellent source of vitamins which helps the body in functioning appropriately and so doctors often recommend people to start eating egg regularly. Not only vitamins, eggs are also rich in essential nutrients which are very much required for the proper growth and development of the human body. You should daily eat eggs to stay healthy. Some people just eliminate the yellow yolk which is present inside the egg and eat only the outer whitish portion. This is not a good as the yolk is the only one which provides the essential fats, vitamins and nutrients to the human body. But that does not mean that the whitish portion of the egg is not important. They provide the proteins to the body.

A normal large egg contains the following: Selenium (22 % of the RDA), Vitamin A (6 % of the RDA), Vitamin B5 (7 % of the RDA), Vitamin 2 (15 % of the RDA), Vitamin B12 (9 % of the RDA), Vitamin E, iron, Folate, calcium, potassium, manganese, zinc and many others essential nutrients. Just imagine a single eggs is how much beneficial. If you eat eggs regularly then you are surely not going to get deficiency of any of the above mentioned vitamins and minerals. Further a single large egg also has 77 calories, carbohydrates and 5 grams each of fats and proteins.

Much people are not aware of the Choline, which is a very important nutrient considering the fact that it is responsible for the growth of the brain. It is often named with the B-complex vitamins. Egg is a tremendous source of Choline. This nutrient is required for various metabolism processes that go inside a human body. The synthesis of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine is only possible if the body has adequate amount of Choline in it. If your body is deficit of Choline, then you are prone to cardiovascular and liver diseases. Also there are chances that you may suffer from neurological disorders. All these can be avoided if you eat egg as one egg contains about 113 mg of Choline. So go for it and stay away from these life threatening diseases.

One egg has about 212 mg of cholesterol in it, so often people have this doubt in their mind that it will affect their body in negative way. In a human body it is the responsibility of the liver to maintain the amount of cholesterol. If you consume less cholesterol food then liver compensates for it and if you are eating foods such as eggs which are rich in cholesterol, then liver produces less cholesterol. One of the biggest advantages of eating egg is that it raises the level of the HDL cholesterol which is very much required by the body and reduces the LDL cholesterol which is responsible for the various diseases that occurs in the body. This will in turn helps in keeping the cardiovascular disease away from you.

We have not mentioned about the antioxidants which are present in the egg so far. So let me tell you egg is a wonderful food item which has two most essential antioxidants required by the human body and they are Zeaxanthin and Lutein. Both of them are present in the yolk of the egg and are excellent for the proper functioning of the eyes. In the recent times cataracts is one such disease because of which many people have lost their eyesight. These antioxidants which we have mentioned here reduce the risk of cataract by providing power and stamina to the eyes.

You must have read it in your books that proteins are must for the human body as they are considered as to be the building blocks and performs several work in the human body which is very essential for its proper growth. There are 21 amino acids which the human body requires and out of these 21, there are quite a few which the body cannot produce on its own and so the protein rich foods are eaten to compensate for them. Egg provides all those amino acids which the body requires. In short if you want to stay healthy, then continue eating eggs regularly.

If you daily eat eggs in your breakfast then it can help you in losing your body fat and you can easily become fit and slim. When measured on the Satiety scale, an egg gets a reading of 19 which is quite high. This proves that eggs helps in shedding weight and improving the body mass index by a whopping 61 percent. If you have obesity problem and you do not eat eggs then this is one such food item which you should start eating. With so many health benefits that it provides and considering the fact that it is easily available and pocket friendly food item, one should include eggs in their diet chart. Moreover there are so many egg recipes available, so just try them and stay protected.

June 24, 2014
Mouth-watering Kolkata Street Food

Kolkata. The City of Joy.
Kolkata. The land of literature and poetry.
Kolkata. The land of ‘tok-jhal-mishti’.
Kolkata. The city of history and heritage.
Kolkata. The Cultural Capital of India.
Kolkata. The city of street food.

Food as we know goes hand in hand with culture. Street food- the very culture of which began in Kolkata and it holds great importance in the city. Unlike other cities where there are particular areas where you can expect to find chaat-walla, gol-guppa walla and nimbu-pani wale bhaiya, in Kolkata you will find road-side vendors at every nook and crack of the city selling some or the other snack. Once you have lived in Kolkata and if you move out, more than your family you will miss the food- this is a popular belief. I was born and brought up in this city and I have explored all the possible street food items that are available here, being the foodie that I am. So here is a list of the 16 most delicious and mouth-watering street food items found in the City of Joy which sure will leave all of you wanting for more.

1. The all-time favourite: Puchka and Churmur.

This is one of the most iconic street food items and it is an all-time favourite. As we know it, puchka belongs to the Gol-guppa or the Paani puri family, which are the other variations found in other parts of the country. But puchka, as called in Kolkata is thought to be the King of all variations. It contains numerous spices and comes in lot of variations like- ‘Doi puchka or dahi puchka’ which has curd. This is one of the specialities of Kolkata. The spiced mashed potato along with the tamarind or ‘misthti jol’ (Sweet water) in the crunchy puri is sure to make you drool.

2. Jhalmuri

This is another speciality of Kolkata. This is so famous that it has made a mark for it across continents. It consists of puffed rice, spices, chanachur or bhujia, chopped onions, chilly and nuts. It might also have coriander, tomatoes and a coconut slice. This is a food item which can be modified according to the customer’s choice. Jhalmuri is served in old newspaper cones, something which has been an old tradition now.

3. Roll

The rolls found in Kolkata are definitely the most delicious ones you will ever eat. The Kathi roll is again a speciality of this city. Basically a parantha is filled with the stuffing of one’s choice (for example Aloo, paneer, tandoori chicken, egg, etc.) and it rolled up, which the customer is supposed to hold in the hand and eat. Rolls are a favourite of the students or office-workers because it is not only tasty, it is also filling and affordable.

4. Samosa or Shinghara

Usually it is an evening snack, enjoyed with a cup of hot tea. It is a triangular shaped baked of fried pastry and it has a stuffing of mashed potatoes and is served with mishti chutney. They may have variations where the stuffing comprises of paneer, minced mutton, keema, etc.

5. Telebhaja

Quintessentially Bengali, telebhaja means fried items. In every corner of the street you will find small road-side stalls selling fried items such as ‘Beguni, aloo’r chop, pyaaji, phuluri, etc. They are excessively oily but they taste heavenly. This is one item every Calcuttan definitely misses when they leave.

6. Ghoogni

This is a typical Bengali dish and it comprises of Yellow dried peas, onions, chilly, coriander, tomatoes, and seasoned with spices. One may also add sliced carrots and coconut. It is mixed with the peas and served hot in a dry leaves bowl. Some Bengalis also enjoy ghoogni with puffed rice.

7. Chowmein

You might be wondering how this dish is street food? Well in Kolkata it is. You will find street-side stalls where hot and spicy chow is pan fried or stir fried with added vegetables or egg or chicken and served in plastic plates. You have to try it and then you will never want to have chow in a restaurant again.

8. Jalebi or Jilipi

Jilipi as Bengalis love to call it, it a unique type of sweet. One can never say what it exactly taste like because it is crispy, chewing, and soft all the same time. Kolkata has a special variation of jalebi called the ‘Channa’r jilipi’ which is made of channa or thick, fresh cottage curd cheese.

9. Fish Cutlet or fish fingers

As we all know it, Bengalis love fish. Fish and even chicken cutlets once again can be found in and around every street corner and is enjoyed by all. These are really tasty snacks which are mouth-watering and very inexpensive.

10. Cha, Chaai in Earthen cups

Chai is available everywhere in the country. Then what makes Kolkata’s chai so special? The USP of the tea served here is that it is served in ‘Bhaanr’ or earthen cups. Every Calcuttan who has had chai in earthen cups will know that it adds a characteristically different flavour to the tea. The road-side vendors do add spices if the customer demands.

These are the list of 10 street-food items which are delicious and will totally satisfy your taste buds. So all the foodies out there, next time plan a trip to Kolkata and trust me you will not be disappointed!

June 18, 2014
Street Food Made Easy Part-2

Okay, for those of you who have read the previous edition to this article, I am not going to bother with an explanation regarding what street food is, how it tastes, what are its benefits and the like. However, for those who are reading about street food for the first time, this article will surely prove to be a pleasant surprise. And dare I say both for the tummy and the mind!

Street food can be of various types. It can include heavy or light food items as per your hunger pangs. Well, in this article, I would like to satisfy those among you who prefer the former category.

Often while returning from work or from school or from college, you find your stomach rumbling. Really loudly! Well, what to do? You know that having food from the street is not really the safest bet for your health. But what is the alternative then? It is really simple actually. Just make those street food items which you have been craving for God know how many days at your own home! Follow the recipes given below to get the most satisfying and sumptuous results with the utmost amount of ease on your part. I assure you that you will not be disappointed in the least. Simply read on to find out more!

(1) Dahi Papdi Chaat:

Dahi Papdi Chaat is a very popular north Indian (Maharashtrian) street food item. Chaat essentially means a Hindi word which literally means ‘to lick’. It is now used to describe a whole range of savoury snacks and fast food items across Indian and in some places abroad as well. Papdi refers to the special crisp fried dough wafers which are made in a special way by using refined white flour and oil (mustard usually) as the main ingredients.

Ingredients:

•Crisp Papdis: 24.
•Whisked Yoghurt: 1 ½ cups.
•Salt: According to taste.
•Sugar: 1 tbsp.
•Boiled and Chopped Potatoes: 2 medium sized.
•Blanched Sprouted Green Gram: ½ cup.
•Red Chilli-Garlic Chutney: ¼ cup.
•Green Chutney: ½ cup.
•Sweet Tamarind Chutney: ¼ cup.
•Roasted Cumin Powder: 1 tsp.
•Chaat Masala: ½ tsp.
•Red Chilli Powder: ½ tsp.
•Fresh Coriander Leaves: According to use.
•Sev: As required.
•Peeled Pomegranate (Anar): 2 tbsp.

Preparation:

•Add salt and sugar to the yogurt and whisk further till it has arrived at a smooth consistency. Keep the mixture in the refrigerator till use. In the meantime, arrange the Papdis on a medium-sized plate.
•Place some of the chopped potatoes over each Papdi. Over that, put some boiled sprouted moong. Drizzle a little Red Chilli-Garlic Chutney, Green Chutney and Sweet Tamarind Chutney over those.
•Sprinkle cumin powder, chaat masala, a little red chilli powder and salt. Top it all up with the chilled yogurt mixture.
•Drizzle some more of the Sweet Tamarind Chutney and the Red Chilli-Garlic Chutney. Then add the coriander leaves, Sev and the pomegranate pearls on top at the end.
•Serve immediately.

Preparation Time: 15-20 minutes.

Serves 4.

(2) Pav Bhaji:

Pav Bhaji is an exceedingly popular Maharashtrian street food item that traditionally originated in the Mumbai cuisine. While the Bhaji part of the dish is a traditional Indian name for a vegetable dish, the Pav or Pau or Pao was the Portuguese word for bread (small rolls). Pav Bhaji is native to Mumbai and has now become popular in almost all the metropolitan areas in India especially in those of central and western Indian states such as Gujarat and Karnataka.

Ingredients:

•Turmeric Powder: ¼ tsp.
•Pav Bhaji Masala Powder: 1 ½ tbsp.
•Ginger Garlic Paste: 1 ½ tbsp.
•Finely Chopped Tomatoes: 3 medium sized.
•Tomato Sauce (Optional): 4 tbsp.
•Lemon Juice (Optional): 1-2 tsp.
•Finely Chopped Onion for Garnishing (Optional): 1 small sized.
•Coriander Leaves for Garnishing: According to requirement.
•Butter/Oil for Bhaji: 1 tbsp.
•Additional Butter for Pav: According to requirement.
•Pav (Buns): 6 to 8.

Preparation:

•Add the butter or oil in a pan and heat it up. Add the chopped onions and fry till they turn translucent. Then, add the ginger garlic paste and fry till it gets fragrant.
•Add the chopped tomatoes, the turmeric powder and then sprinkle salt. Continue to fry till the tomatoes turn soft and mushy.
•Add the chilli powder, extra salt and Pav Bhaji Masala powder. Mix well and fry for another 2 minutes.
•Pour water so that it is just enough to cover the vegetables.
•Add the coriander leaves. Mix well and mash the curry if you desire a smooth Bhaji.
•Cook till the consistency of the gravy becomes thick.
•Slit the Pav buns horizontally leaving one edge intact.
•Heat the butter on a pan. Open the buns and toast it for a minute or two. If you like to make it spicier, sprinkle some Pav Bhaji Masala Powder on the inner side.
•Garnish with onions and serve either hot or warm.

Preparation Time: 25-30 minutes.

Serves 3-4.

So, there you are. I am sure that you must be salivating by now if you have read through the recipes and seen the pictures. Especially if you are on an empty stomach! Well, then. Why the wait up? Go to the kitchen and start cooking. Nobody is going to stop you from devouring these delicious food items once you are done!

Happy snacking folks!

June 15, 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
Rainy Day Nibbles!

“Rain, rain, go away! Come again another day. “ ~

It’s raining outside and you can hear the raindrops going pitter patter against the window glass. You strain your ears to hear the splashing of the rain against the sidewalk. It is at that exact moment you realize that the Monsoon season has truly arrived.

With the advent of the rains, you can hardly go out to eat as you are bound to get thoroughly drenched in the process. So what to do to satisfy your inconsolable tummy which seems to have a mind of its own? Or in case some unexpected guests drop in at your home? Not to worry! Here is a list of two yummilicious food items along with their recipes that you can make on your own and that too while sitting in the comfort of your home sweet home. We know that it is pleasure personified to gorge on some tasty snacks along with a hot cup of tea or coffee in your hand on a rainy day. So, there you go. Read on as we help you accomplish that goal!

(1) ALOO CHAAT:
This is a tasty snack loved by one and all. Diced potatoes (Aloo) are cooked in oil and deep-fried until they are crisp and golden-brown. Then they are garnished with all your favourite things and ready for you to nibble on! But hey! Wait a moment now. Do we spot drooling?
Hint: Use toothpicks instead of usual spoons or forks to get that perfect ambiance of your favourite street food stall.

Ingredients:

3 Peeled Medium-sized Aloo (potatoes)
1/2 tsp Red Chilli Powder
1 tsp Roasted Cumin Powder
1 tsp Chaat Masala
Tamarind Chutney
Mint Chutney
Chopped Coriander Leaves
Optional garnish – Chopped onion, Tomato julienne, fresh Pomegranate seeds and oil for frying.

Preparation:

•Dice Aloo (potatoes) into fairly large 3/4 to 1 inch cubes.
•Heat the oil in a wok and deep fry the potatoes till golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper.
•In a bowl, place the fried potatoes and toss with red Chilli powder, Cumin powder and Chaat Masala.
•Add mint chutney and/or tamarind chutney according to taste and toss to coat evenly.
•Serve sizzling hot with toothpicks in individual bowls garnished with coriander leaves.
•You can also additionally garnish the Aloo Chaat with chopped Onions, Tomato julienne or fresh Pomegranate seeds.

Preparation Time: 20-25 minutes

Serves 2/3

(2) VEGETABLE SAMOSA:
This is a special North-Indian snack which is extremely easy to make and delicious to eat as well. A fried crispy covering with the stuffing of your choice inside leaves you craving for yet more. It is roughly triangular in shape usually but the size can vary from place to place.
Hint: Potato acts as the binding agent here. So, be sure to be liberal with that while stuffing!

Ingredients For Cover:

3-4 cup all purpose flour (Maida)
Water to Knead dough
2 tbsp oil
Little salt
1/4th tsp Ajwain seeds (optional)

Ingredients For Stuffing:

3-4 Potatoes (boiled, peeled and mashed)
1/2 cup Green Peas (boiled)
1-2 Green Chilies (finely chopped)
1/2 tsp Ginger (crushed)
1 tbsp coriander finely chopped
Few chopped Cashews (optional)
Few Raisins (optional)
1/2 tsp Garam Masala powder
Salt to taste
Red chili powder to taste
1/2 tsp Dry Mango powder( Amchur) (optional)

Preparation:

For Cover:

•Mix all the ingredients together in a big bowl except for the water.
•Then, start adding a little water at a time.
•Pat and knead well for several times until a soft pliable dough is made.
•Cover it with a moist Muslin cloth and keep aside for 15 minutes so that the dough becomes firm.
For Stuffing:
•In a bowl, add mashed potatoes and all the dry masala (salt, chili powder, mango powder, Garam masala) and green chilies and ginger. Mix well.
•Add the green peas, cashews and raisins into the mixture.
•Add coriander and keep aside for a while.

To Proceed:

•Take small rolls of dough and roll it into a 4″-5″ diameter circle.
•Cut it into two parts like a semi-circle.
•Now, take one semi circle and fold it like a cone. Use a little water while doing so.
•Place a spoon of filling inside the cone and seal the third side firmly using a drop of water.
•Heat oil in a deep vessel and deep fry till golden brown (medium flame).
•Serve the steaming hot samosas with tamarind chutney.

Preparation Time: 40-45 minutes

Serves 2

So, what are you waiting for? Come on. Go into the kitchen and get started! Cook these easy to make and irresistible snacks and satisfy those hunger pangs. These lip-smacking items serve to be an instant hit among all your guests as well. We assure you that you won’t be disappointed as these snacks will only add to your happiness on what would have been an otherwise dull and dreary rainy day.

Happy nibbling!

June 7, 2014
Cake, Lovin’ it!

Cakes… Are they only for Birthday occasions? Not Really. Cakes are such mood changers. They are irresistible. We love cakes and they love us. I don’t think there’s anyone out there who doesn’t love cake. Everyone fancies it and Chocolate cake, its like king of all. Just so delicious. Eating a chocolate cake simply makes our day so effortless. They are yum, rich, creamy, fluffy, soft and what not!
The picture is of actual cake, made by me. It is very simple to make, yet looks delicious. And this is the cake, I have been making from last few years. I got to know about this recipe in my 1st year of graduation and since then, this is kinda my favorite tea-time cake. My family loves the taste and they simply wait for that time of the day, when I will make this cake and serve them. It can take many variations with toppings, and I experiment a lot. I usually bake this cake on weekend and I use electric baking oven. It is simple, easy, light and fun to make and bake. Well, if concerned about calories, for that I am answerless, but yeah, its fun to sometimes put down your diet schedule and enjoy the delicacies. No?! I simply famish it and love to make it and bake it. It is a simple Vanilla cake with Chocolate cream frosting. When I originally made this cake in 2011, I simply garnsihed it with almond and chocolate flakes. Since then, I have played with the flavorings. Vanilla extract (or seeds from a scraped out bean) is classic. Feel free to vary the flavours and make the basic buttercream your own.

VANILLA CAKE
Servings: 4-5

Ingredients:
2 large eggs
½ cup powdered sugar (sugar has to be powdered otherwise it burns)
½ cup maida (flour)
1 tsp baking powder
¼ cup milk
½ cup oil
1 tsp vanilla essence

Method:– Sift flour with baking powder. Keep aside
Beat eggs and powdered sugar till the eggs turn fluffy and the mixture becomes more than double volume. Add vanilla essence.
Add oil to beaten egg-sugar mixture in the bowl. Mix well.

Fold in flour gradually till all the flour is used. Add milk to get a slightly thinner than a soft dropping consistency.
Grease a deep aluminium baking bowl. Pour the batter in it.
Preheat the electric baking oven at 220 degrees Celsius. Then, after that put the baking dish containing batter in the oven and let it bake.
It will take around 30-35 minutes. You can see it through the transparent mirror if you are satisfied with its bake look, you can take it out. You can check by seeing if cake shrunk away from sides of baking pan and is brown form the up side. Cool on a cake rack before removing from the pan.

For Toppings and decorating:

Variation 1: You can spread chocolate sauce on the cake all over and garnish almonds and chocolate and sprinkle on it. There are other decorative eating material available in markets like sugary stars or balls, which you can sprinkle on cake to make it look more attractive.

Variation 2: Buttercream Topping: Mix 100 ml cream (I take Amul cream), sugar (to taste), 2 tablespoons butter and 2 teaspoons of cocoa powder in a double boiler and prepare the chocolate sauce. As it is thick it can be used as a cream on cake and frosting as well. Pour on the cooled cake and spread it with spatula. Garnish with chocolate, almond and walnut flakes. Voila! Your cake is ready!
Chocolate cake with same recipe: To convert a vanilla cake into a chocolate cake, add 2 teaspoon cocoa powder and 2 extra 2 tablespooon powdered sugar to the recipe of vanilla cake given above. After the cake is ready, pour some chocolate sauce on it and serve.
You can also put cherries and strawberries on the buttercream and decorate it as per your creativity. Sometimes, I put Cadbury gems and Cadbury shots on it and it just looks lovely. The most important thing to increase its fluffiness and softness is to whisk it and beat it as much as you can. I usually switch on a tv or songs while beating the mixture and keep doing it for atleast half an hour, taking breaks in between. This way it becomes less tiring. The more you beat, the perfectly it will be baked. It is the key point which you should just follow while making the batter. For a cake, beating is like electricity needed to light a bulb.
It is like perfect tea time cake and can be used in many ways, on birthday occasion or to on some other happy occasion but it just serves well at any time. Above all, when it is baked by you, cake so delicious, it is sure to receive heavy compliments.
You cannot be sad when you can bake. This is what I feel. There is an unexplainable satisfaction when you see your cake baked so perfectly. With so many benefits ranging from so good taste, emotional satisfaction, easy to make and bake, lovely to serve, easy to experiment, can be variated , can be baked to win someone special’s heart, kid’s first choice and many other countless benefits.

So, just keep baking. Love it. Serve it. Eat it.

June 7, 2014
Chocolates, Mmm..mm..Muahhh!

The treat that lies in its wrapper, so loved worldwide, named as chocolate is irresistible and exotic. There is no replacement for chocolate. It is in itself a world, so exciting and mouth-watering. No conditions attached. It is such a feel good therapy. You can relinquish a bar anytime, all the time. When you’re happy, its time for chocolate, when you’re sad, its time for chocolate. Whether, you’re anxious, emotional, hungry, tired, in love or hate, grab a chocolate and love it. It is unconditional , lovable, yum, perfect, rich, creamy, smooth, silky, luxurious, sweet, pleasurable and what not. The list will go on!
As you peel back the wrapper, you are uncovering the cacao trees seeds- and joining people the world over who have turned to this mysterious food for ritual, medicine and sheer pleasure for the past 4000 years. The truth once discovered by the Aztecs and now gulped by millions not only tastes delicious but is healthy for you. I know this is a good news for Chocoholics. But, Yes, Chocolate is really good as it contains compounds called FLAVONOIDS that can help maintain a healthy heart and good circulation and reduce blood clotting; which can cause heart attack and strokes. Many evidences have been found in researches that consumption of chocolate that is rich in flavonoids can have positive cardiovascular effects. It is observed that there is an increase in antioxidant capacity after chocolate consumption. Even chocolate can lead us to have good, well-balanced life. Here are some wonderful facts about chocolate.
Chocolaty Facts: Did you know, It takes two to four days to make a single serving chocolate bar.
Approximately 3 million cocoa beans are turned into chocolate products each year. Huge, No?
Cocoa is raised by the hands, on small, family owned farms.

Worldwide, 40 to 50 million depend on cocoa for their livelihood.
Well, with so many fascinating facts, our chocolate love is filled with more gratitude. To fascinate you more, here are some super awesome reasons to fancy a chocolate.
Chocolate is so good for your heart: With all the flavonoid content and antioxidant benefit, the chocolate is sure to eat without guilt. It is found in researches that eating a small amount of chocolate can reduce the risk of heart disease.
You can dip just about anything into it: Yes, almost anything. Don’t just stop at fruits. You can dip all kinds of foods in chocolate and you definitely should. Okay, maybe not everything but, yes, most of the eatables.
Chocolate chip cookies; for psychological and emotional support: Chocolate cookies will get you through any life event and every part of your day. If you’re skeptical about it, science can prove how crazy amazing they are.

Chocolate could protect your skin from sunburn: A study conducted by German researchers proved that a group of women who drank hot chocolate fortified with extra flavonoids every morning for three months were less affected by UV rays than women who drank hot chocolate with less flavonoids.
Chocolate Cake; Who doesn’t love it? : Yes, chocolate cake. Such a fancy. Anyone would be happy when they get to eat so rich creamy chocolate cake. You know its true, there is no argument against it. It is surely a feel good therapy with all the magnificence and taste.
Chocolate makes a great breakfast: What better way to start your day with than a little chocolate? Chocolate chip pancakes, chocolate croissants, chocolate doughnut, hot chocolate. Anything is fulfilling when it has chocolate in it.
Chocolate fudge has the power to improve your day and your life too! : When that hot fudge meets that cold ice cream, something overpowering takes over and that will definitely improve your day. It is such an awesome creation that we can’t ignore it. We simply love it.
Chocolate Ice Cream will never let you down: With all the crazy ice cream flavors out there, chocolate ice cream just attracts you naturally. You may think chocolate ice cream is a little lackluster, but you would probably be wrong about that. Cold, creamy, chocolate ice cream is a gift you should appreciate every afternoon around 4 p.m. or every night straight out of the container. Trust me.
Chocolate may help you in maths class: Yeah, you heard it right. It can help you in Maths class. And if you’re not in maths class, it could just help you with numbers in life. Apparently, the flavonoids- those compounds that have antioxidant effects- in chocolate could help people with their number skills. Go on!
Chocolate is a great way to bond with your kids: Simply, because What kid doesn’t love chocolate?
Its no secret that we are serious chocolate lovers here. We love it so much that we think of eating it everyday is a great idea. Chocolate makes us happy in so many ways, but it also does so much more. It can help calm us down, help us bond with people and help us feel sophisticated. It can solve almost all our problems. Then, of course, it deserves our never-ending love. Chocolate is chocolate, Nothing is better. Savor it.
And. Let’s face it, Chocolate is irresistible and we become desperate for it. After all, there’s no reason to resist it. Do we? No! Now, you can feel great about eating chocolate everyday.
Enjoy your Chocolate and With all your heart. Eat ‘em…love’em!

June 5, 2014
Say Cheese, Eat cheese, Love cheese!

Cheese… Who doesn’t crave it ? Its yum, its wow! Unfortunately, this calorie thing destroys it all, making us think whether or not to answer our craving. Sad, no? But guys, cheese is attached with so many good facts also. Yes, you heard it right. I think the only caution is to be moderate with consumption, I don’t think there is need to abandon it for the purpose of dieting. Eat in moderation. And enjoy the taste. Why stop!!! I know, there is something about cheese that in one form or other, the presence of cheese makes it presence felt- be it as it is, or on crackers, in bake or a cake, with pasta, or as a fondue. Cheese is included in so many different recipes and makes almost every dish tastes so much better than ever and that is what makes it so attractive.
The knowledge of gourmet cheeses are readily available and is steadily expanding. Specialty cheeses, especially are a highly value product. They are different because of their processing styles, supply, milk source and extraordinary packaging, also having high quality standard which makes it unique. Some of the leading specialty cheeses are goat’s cheese or organic cheese. Cheese is a protein-rich meal. The idea is not to eat more but to eat better. Mainly, there are three type of cheese:– soft, medium and hard. Several factors determine the dynamics of cheese making; these include ingredients and duration of ripening which could be anywhere from a few weeks to months or years. Cheddar and Parmesan are the most expensive. The varieties of cheese are abundant. From cheese with herbs and peppers, to smoked cheese and marbled cheese, cheese mellowed in wines, oils and vinegars, one is really spoilt for choice!
“Here’s great quote about cheese: A cheese may disappoint, it may be dull, it may be naïve, it may be over sophisticated. Yet, it remains, cheese, milk’s leap towards immortality.” – Clifton Fadima
Cheese is good for you and your health. Hand made or traditionally made cheese are more beneficial instead of processed cheese. Ofcourse, you always want to eat fatty food like cheese, but it is nice to know that eating this tasteful thing can be actually good for you. Delighted, no? Here’ how it is with the list of some benefits of this protein rich food;
Cheese is great for your teeth: As cheese has very high calcium content, and teeth needs calcium to be good, strong and healthy. The Consumption of cheese reduces plaque and stimulates saliva which helps to keep mouth clean. It has lower lactose content and that is also the reason that it maintains strong teeth as any sugar(lactose, glucose, maltose) can harm teeth. So, cheese can be first and foremost thing for dental care.

Cheese takes care of Bone health: Apart from having high calcium content, it is also rich in high Vitamin B , which is good for children, women (particularly when pregnant) and elderly people, for the formation and strengthening of bones. The vitamin B in cheese enhances the absorption and distribution of calcium in body.

Cheese induces Weight Gain: Yes, I know, people don’t want that, But for those who are underweight and malnutritioned, it can be the key ingredient in their diet to gain more weight and to have more energy. It is full of vitamins, minerals, fats, calcium and most of the body processes are improved by its eating. One just needs to eat a lot of cheese , do exercises and sleep an adequate amount.
Cheese is Energy Booster : Full Fat cheese are very calorie-densed and can serve as a full form of energy and can bombard you with energy . Alternatively, eating reduced fat cheese will give you some mouth satisfaction as eating the regular cheese can be useful snack for to keep you from weaving off your healthy eating plan.
Cheese contain Vitamins, Minerals, healthy bacteria : Most cheeses are very high in vitamins and minerals. You’ll get appropriate amounts of phosphorus, iodine. Magnesium, zinc from eating cheese as well as boosting your intake of vitamins B-2, B-12, A and D. Additionally, many cheese will improve the profile of your gut bacteria, which aid in healthy digestion, metabolism, circulation.
Cheese is good for skin and migraine: As cheese contains Vitamin B, it is excellent for skin health. It helps in maintaining good, glowing, healthy and supple skin. Also, it is helpful to cure migraine headaches as it is rich in calcium and calcium intake reduces the problem of migraine. So, now you can think of including cheese in your diet.

After all this nourishing virtue of cheese who don’t want to try it. So, Next time you go shopping in your grocery store, don’t be anxious while picking cheese from gourmet. If you love cheese, by no reasons you should condemn, rather jump on and eat but yes, moderation is important. Afterall, Excess is bad of everything.

Eat it good, Eat for good, but don’t forget to say it with big smile – CHEEEEEEEEESE ! yeah! that’s the better way. Perfect!

Simply, as I say. Good eats, Good life. Say Cheese and love cheese.

June 5, 2014