Fanciful Mind - Lets spice it up !

Kadala Parupu (Chana Dal) Kootu

2008-04-04T22:14:00.000-07:00

Vegetable Kootu is as easy as making any dry curry. I already have posted a Vegetable kootu recipe in my blog and this one is slightly different in terms of the Lentil/dal that i have used in this and i have also used red chillies in this one instead of green chillies.Since i have used Chana Dal in this kootu am going to call this one "Kadala Parupu Kootu". cabbage can also be added.

Ingredients :

1 Cup of chopped Chayote Squash (Chow-Chow/Bangalore Kathrikai) (peel the skin and then chop them)
1/2 cup of Chopped carrots
1/2 cup of Geen Peas
3-4 tablespoons of grated coconut
2-3 Red Chillies
1 teaspoon of Cumin Seeds
A little more than 1/4 cup of Chana Dal
1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder
1/2 tablespoon of Mustard seeds
1/2 tablespoon of urad dal
2-3 tablespoon of Sesame oil
A Pinch oif Asafoetida Powder
2-3 tablespoon of cilantro
salt

Boil the chopped vegetables along with the chana dal and turmeric powder in a pressure cooker.Once they are done mix well.Do not mash the dal/vegetables.
Grind the grated coconut,red chillies ,cumin seeds with 4-5 tablespoon of water.

Heat some oil in a vessel.Fry Mustard seeds.Once they start spluttering fry the Urad dal.
Now add the boiled vegetables.Mix well.After 2-3 mins add the ground paste.Mix well.
Cover the vessel and cook for 5 mins in medium heat.Add asafoetida powder, mix well.
Garnish with cilantro and serve hot with rice/roti.

Okra Curry

2008-04-04T21:45:00.000-07:00

I picked up a bag full of fresh okras during my visit to the Indian store and couldnt wait to make this yummy curry that i learnt from my mom in law.I normally make okra curry just with some red chilli powder.This is a little different version and it needs some grinding....A valuable point i learnt from my mom in law is to never cover the pan/vessel while making okra curry, since covering the vessel would increase its stickiness. Okra curry, Keerai masial with rice was my lunch the other day and i simply loved it !

Ingredients :

3 cups of chopped okras (chopped)
2-3 tablespoons of grated coconut
2-3 Red Chillies
1 teaspoon of chana dal
1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder
1/2 tablespoon of Mustard seeds
1/2 tablespoon of urad dal
2-3 tablespoon of Sesame oil
A Pinch oif Asafoetida Powder
salt

Dry roast the grated coconut,red chillies and the chana dal.Dry grind them.

Heat some oil in a deep saute pan.Fry Mustard seeds.Once they start spluttering fry the Urad dal.
Now add the chopped Okras and turmeric powder.Mix well.After 2-3 mins add the ground powder.Mix well.
Cook the okra without covering the pan.Saute in between and add the asafoetida powder before you remove the pan from heat.
Serve hot with rice/roti !

Keerai (Spinach) Masial

2008-04-03T22:55:00.001-07:00

Something healthy and yet delicious..thats Spinach Masial fondly called as "Keerai Masial" in Tamil.It can be had as a side dish or can also be had with rice directly just like rasam/sambhar....If you are bored of cooking,if you are hungry....and if you have some frozen spinach,frozen coconut..thats about it...you can prepare this dish in less than 15 mins !

Ingredients:

2 cups of Frozen Spinach (If not frozen,clean the fresh spinach,chop them into small pieces and boil them)
3-4 tablespoon of Grated Coconut
3-4 red chillies
1/2 tablespoon of Cumin seeds
1/2 teaspoon of mustard seeds
1/2 teaspoon of urad dal
2 tablespoon of oil
Pinch of Asafoetida powder
Salt

Microwave the frozen Spinach and keep it aside

Grind the coconut,redchillies,cumin seeds,asafoetida powder with 4-5 tablespoons of water.
Now heat some oil in a vessel.Add the mustard seeds and when they start spluterring add the urad dal and fry them.
Now add the spinach,salt and the ground paste.Mix well.
Cover the vessel and Cook in medium heat for 2-3 mins.Serve hot with rice !

Egg Biryani

2008-04-03T21:25:00.000-07:00

I was just wondering the other day..."Why havent I posted a single Recipe made of Egg?".....Instead of searching for an answer I wanted to post one of the egg dishes that i relisha lot...thats my favourite Egg Biryani recipe to start with ! Iam an Eggeterian and I honestly enjoy eating Eggs:-)) During my childhood days I have only had eggs twice or thrice..that too only boiled eggs. The best part during my hostel life in Bangalore,India use to be the 'Egg biryani' and couple of other Egg recipes that my roommate use to make.I even remember buying some eggs and requesting my roommate to make Egg Biryani for me and use to eat it like i have been starving.Iam really not sure how the authentic egg biryani would taste like...coz' the egg biryani i make doesnt require any grinding of masala etc.Its a rather simple recipe that can be made in 30 mins.So, for all the Egg lovers.....here is one such recipe that will make you to ask for more!

Ingredients :

2 cups of Basmati Rice
2 Large eggs
2 Boiled eggs ( cut them into pieces-length wise )
1/2 cup of chopped onions
1 cup of chopped tomatoes
2 Green Chillies
1/2 teaspoon of ginger garlic paste
3-4 tablespoon of Oil/ghee
1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
1 tablespoon of Red Chilli Powder
1/2 teaspoon of garam masala powder
4-5 Cloves
2-3 Bay leaves
A pinch of Cardamon Powder
Salt

Wash the Basmati Rice , drain the water and cook the rice after sometime.

Heat some oil/ghee in a pan.
Fry the Cloves,Bay leaves.
Add the onions,green chillies,ginger garlic paste and fry them till the onions turn transparent.
Now add the chopped tomatoes,turmeric powder,red chilli powder and the garam Masala Powder.Mix well and cook for 10 mins.
Add Salt,Cardamon Powder and Mix well.
Now Break the eggs and add the contents.This process needs lots of stirring.Its almost like making Egg Bhurji..actually it is :-).

After 10-12 mins once the mix is dry enough to be mixed with therice remove the pan from heat.
Now add the cooked basmati rice to the curry.Mix well.Then add the boiled egg pieces and mix well without breaking them.Serve hot with chips/papad or a hot curry of your choice !

Gobi Mutter Curry with Coconut (Cauliflower Green Peas Sabzi with coconut)

2008-03-31T23:45:00.001-07:00

Since my last two previous posts were of breakfast/snack varieties I thought I should post some hot curry recipe..Well, when I say 'hot' its not one of those really spicy curry types....this dish is at its best when its served 'hot' :-). Cauliflower and Green Peas with some coconut..a fantastic recipe that I stole from my mom's kitchen :-))

Ingredients:

1 and 1/2 Cups of Cauliflower florets
1/2 Cup of Frozen Green Peas
1/2 cup of chopped Onions
1/2 cup of chopped Tomatoes
3-4 tablespoon of grated coconut
1 green chilli (chopped)
1/2 teaspoon of ginger garlic paste (optional)
1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
1 teaspoon of coriander powder
1 teaspoon of red chilli powder
1 teaspoon of garam masala powder
3 tablespoon of oil
Salt

Boil some water and soak the cauliflower florets and the green peas.

Now heat some oil in a saute pan.Now add the chopped onions,ginger garlic paste and fry onions till they start changing color.Add the greated coconut and mix well.Now add the chopped tomatoes,turmeric powder,coriander powder,red chilli powder,garam masala powder and salt.Mix well and cover the pan and cook in medium heat for 7-8 mins.Now add the cauliflower florets and the green peas.Mix well.Add 1/2 cup of water to the curry.You can add the same water that was used to soak the veggies.

Cover the pan.Stir in between and cook for 8-10 mins. Serve hot with rice/roti !

Poha (Aval upma)

2008-03-31T23:40:00.001-07:00

Poha !!Its definitely the king of Indian Breakfast ! Atleast I feel that way about Poha.May be not just breakfast...it does it duty and can also satisfy someone as a snack anytime of the day.

Ingredients :

2 cups of beaten Rice
1/2 cup of chopped onions
1 medium size potato (Peel the skin ,chop it into small pieces and boil them in microwave).Do not over cook.
3-4 tablespoon of Oil
1/2 tablespoon of Mustard seeds
2-3 tablespoon of Peanuts
1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
Lemon Juice - As per taste
1 teaspoon of Sugar (Optional)
1 tablespoon of chopped green chillies
Cilantro
Salt

Wash the beaten rice 2 times and drain the water completely.

Heat some oil/ghee in a pan.
Fry the mustard seeds and then the peanuts.
Add turmeric powder, then the onions,green chillies and fry them till the onions turn transparent.
Now add the potato pieces,salt and fry for 3 mins in medium flame.Now add the beaten rice(poha), sugar(which is optional) and mix well.
Cook for 2-3 mins.Garnish with cilantro.
Add lemon juice before serving the Poha !

Cracked Wheat (laapsi) Vegetable Upma

2008-03-31T23:24:00.000-07:00

Hi ! Its been almost 5 months since I posted a recipe on my blog.Now, Iam back with a healthy and a tasty recipe that can be had for breakfast or as a snack or even a meal ! I learnt this wonderful recipe from my mom during my India trip in Dec 2007.When prepared with lots of veggies am sure kids will also love it.I can eat this upma just with a tablespoon of Sugar/some yogurt.It can also be served with a pickle of your choice/even some chutney !

Ingredients :

1 and 1/2 cups of Cracked Wheat (Laapsi)
3 Cups of water
1/2 cup of chopped onions
1 teaspoon of grated ginger
1/2 Cup of chopped carrots
1/2 Cup of chopped green beans
1/4 Cup of Green Peas(I have used frozen)
2-3 Red Chillies
1/2 tablespoon of Mustard seeds
1/2 tablespoon of Chana Dal
2-3 tablespoon of Sesame oil
A pinch of Asafoetida Powder
salt

Heat some oil in a deep saute pan.Fry Mustard seeds.Once they start spluttering fry the Chana dal and the red chillies.
Now add the chopped onions and grated ginger.Fry onions till they start changing color.
Then add the vegetables and salt.Mix well and saute for 2-3 mins.Now add the broken wheat,Asafoetida powder and mix well for 3-4 mins.

Shift the contents to the rice cooker,add 3 Cups of water and cook.
Alternatively it can also be cooked in the pressure cooker.
Serve hot with a chutney of your choice and enjoy this healthy meal !

Baingan Bharta

2007-10-23T14:07:00.000-07:00

I had been waiting to post this recipe in my blog !So,here is Baingan bharta an amazing Punjabi dish which is an excellent companion for any kind of Indian Breads.

Ingredients :

1 Large Egg Plant
1/2 cup of chopped onions
2-3 medium size tomatoes(chop them into small pieces)
A little more than 1/2 tablespoon of Red Chilli Powder
1 teaspoon of grated ginger
2-3 green chillies
1 teaspoon of turmeric Powder
1/2 tablespoon of cumin seeds
1/2 tablespoon of Garam Masala powder
2-3 tablespoon of Oil
Cilantro
salt

Prick the Egg Plant with a fork.Roast the eggplant in a preheated oven/open flame till the skin starts peeling off.Once the eggplant is done and is soft,dip it in cold water to allow it to cool.Remove skin and mash well.

Heat some oil in a deep saute pan.Fry cumin seeds and then add chopped onions,grated ginger and green chillies.Fry onions till they start changing color.Do not over fry them.
Add the chopped tomatoes now.Then add turmeric powder,red chilli powder and salt.Mix well and saute for 2-3 mins till the oil seperates from the masala.Now add the roasted and mashed eggplant.Add salt and mix well. Sprinkle garam masala powder. Cook in medium heat for 5-6 mins.
Mix well.Garnish with cilantro and serve hot with rotis !

Aloo In Yogurt Gravy

2007-10-23T13:30:00.000-07:00

Hi All ! Its been quite sometime since i posted a recipe.Now am back with this yummy and simple potato dish ! Aloo in yogurt gravy.....ahhh..isnt that riveting??! Here is the recipe you can try and am sure you are gonna love it!

Ingredients:

2 Big boiled potatoes (Peel the skin and chop them into cubes)
1/2 cup of Yogurt
2 tablespoon of All Purpose Flour/Besan(Maida)
1/2 teaspoon of grated ginger
1 teaspoon of Cumin Seeds
1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder
1/2 teaspoon of coriander powder
1/2 teaspoon of red chilli powder
2 green chillies(chopped)
2 tablespoon of Sesame oil
Cilantro
Salt

To make yogurt paste:

Take 1/2 of yogurt.Add turmeric powder,coriander powder,red chilli powder and green chillies.Mix well to make a paste.

Now heat some oilin a saute pan.Fry cumin seeds.
Now add the all purpose flour or besan.Fry for 20-30 secs.Now add the Yogurt paste and the grated ginger.Mix well and keep stirring for 1-2 mins.
Now add 1/4 cup of water, required salt and mix well.Keep stirring.Now add the boiled potatoes,mix them without breaking the potatoes.Stir in medium flame for 1 min.Garnish with cilantro and enjoy this wonderful dish with rotis/naan !

Carrot Rice

2007-10-08T13:45:00.000-07:00

Hi! Am back with a simple rice recipe. Carrot rice....its yummy and easy to make ! You can make the ground powder(that we use in this rice) in advance,store it in the fridge and use it within 3 weeks from the date of preparation.

Ingredients :

1 cup of cooked rice
A little more than 1/2 cup of chopped carrots(Boil them for sometime)
1/2 cup of chopped onions
3-4 tablespoon of Oil
2-3 tablespoon of Roasted Peanuts(Powder them)
3-4 cloves
Salt

Fry the following ingredients in 1 teaspoon of oil and then powder them.

1-2 tablespoon of grated dry coconut
3 Red Chillis
1 tablespoon of cumin seeds
1-2 tablespoon of coriander powder

Heat some oil/ghee in a deep saute pan.
Fry cloves.Add onions and fry them till they turn transparent.Now add the grated carrots,fry for 2-3 mins in medium flame.Sprinkle water.
Now add salt,rice,ground powder and mix well.Fry for 2-3 mins.

Add the powdered peanuts,mix well and serve hot.

Palak Paneer/Spinach with Cottage Cheese

2007-09-27T18:02:00.000-07:00

Palak paneer/Spinach with cottage cheese...such a wonderful dish ! Spinach all the way with yummy Paneer! I got this recipe from my mom.She use to make this dish without onions/ginger garlic paste. Spinach is a bit hard to digest/takes a long time to digest.So i never make spinach for dinner since we are less active at night.For all those who love spinach and paneer here is the recipe of Palak paneer.

Ingredients :

10 Oz of chopped Spinach (If not frozen boil them)
Tomato Puree (From 2 big tomatoes)
1/2 cup of chopped onions
1 cup of Paneer cubes(Fry the paneer cubes in oil.Do not over fry)
A little more than 1/2 tablespoon of Red Chilli Powder
1/2 teaspoon of ginger garlic paste
1 teaspoon of Turmeric Powder
1/2 tablespoon of cumin seeds
1/2 tablespoon of Garam Masala powder
1/4 cup of Milk(You can also use heavy cream.Instead of cream i used fat free milk)
2-3 tablespoon of Oil
salt

Heat some oil in a deep saute pan.Fry cumin seeds and then add chopped onions and the ginger garlic paste.Fry onions till they start changing color.Do not over fry them.Then add the turmeric powder,red chilli powder,garam masala powder and salt.Mix well and saute for a min.
Now add the tomato puree and mix well.cover the pan and cook in medium flame for 3-4 mins.Saute inbetween.
Now add the chopped spinach,milk/heavy cream and mix well.Saute for 2 mins.Cover the pan and cook for 3 mins.Saute inbetween.

Now add the paneer cubes,mix well and cook for 2 more mins.

This dish can be served with any kind of Indian bread.

Vegetable Kootu

2007-09-25T21:33:00.000-07:00

Vegetable Kootu is a very popular SouthIndian recipe....this is my all time fav dish which is so easy to make and its also healthy!
This kootu can also be made with vegetables like radish/snake gourd/broad beans etc.Its a great dish that goes well with both rotis and rice.

Ingredients :

1 cup of chopped Chayote Squash(Chow-Chow)-Peel the skin and then chop them
1 cup of cabbage(chopped)
1/2 cup of grated carrot
7-8 tablespoon of green peas(optional)
A little less than 1/4 cup of Moong Dal
3-4 tablespoon of Toor Dal
1/2 teaspoon of mustard seeds
1/2 teaspoon of urad dal
1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder
2 tablespoon of Oil
Pinch of Asafoetida powder
salt

Grind the following with 3-4 tablespoon of water

2 green chillies
1 tablespoon of cumin seeds
1/2 tablespoon of grated ginger
4-5 tablespoon of grated coconut

Cook the vegetables(chayote squash,cabbage,carrot,green peas) along with moog dal,toor dal and turmeric powder in a pressure cooker.
Now shift the boiled vegetables to a vessel,add salt,mix well and keep stirring for 2 mins in medium flame.
Add the ground coconut paste and mix well.
Heat some oil in a small pan.Add the mustard seeds.When it splutters add urad dal and fry them.
Now add the tadka to the vegetable kootu.Add a pinch of asafoetida powder.Mix well and serve hot with rice/rotis.

Carrot Onion Palya(Curry)

2007-09-24T13:03:00.001-07:00

Carrots contains large quantities of vitamin A, in the form of beta carotene.Here is a very simple carrot recipe.

Ingredients:

1 cup of grated Carrot
1/2 cup of chopped Onions (Slice onions length wise)
1/2 teaspoon of grated ginger
1 teaspoon of Cumin Seeds
1/2 teaspoon of coriander powder
1/2 teaspoon of red chilli powder
2 tablespoon of Sesame oil
Salt

Heat some oil/ghee in a saute pan.Fry cumin seeds.
Add onions,grated ginger and fry them till the onions turn transparent.Now add the grarted carrot,required salt,red chilli powder and coriander powder.
Mix well and saute for a min.Cover the pan and cook for 3-4 mins.
Serve hot with roti or rice.

Chettinad Kara Kuzhambhu

2007-09-21T16:12:00.001-07:00

Kara Kozhambhu..chettinad style...is one of the most popular dishes in Chettinad cuisine.I actually got this recipe from a friend whose family hails from the Chettinad region of Tamilnadu.I have had the traditional chettinad lunch and was really amazed with the aroma of the spices in their food !
Kuzhambhu means gravy.Chettinad(Chettinad is the name of a region in Tamilnadu,India) cuisine is known for its hot and pungent traditional food that is so aromatic.
Kara Kozhambhu(Spicy Kozhambhu) is almost similar to Vatha Kozhambhu that is made in other parts of Tamilnadu.The only difference is in the last part where we add coconut in kara kozhambhu(gravy).In Vathakozhambhu we do not add coconut/coconut milk(extarct).
Kara Kozhambhu need not be very spicy.Since me and my husband normally do not eat spicy food,I make kara kuzhambhu in such a way that it would be gentle to our taste buds.
If you feel that the Kara Kozhambhu you have made is very spicy,either add some sugar/jaggery and cook for a minute before serving.That would reduce the spice level.
Vegetables like Eggplant,okra,drumstick can be added in this kozhambhu.

Ingredients:

1/2 cup of chopped onions -(slice them length wise)
1/2 cup of chopped tomatoes
1/2 cup of chopped okras
2-3 Garlic pods
1-2 green chillies -(slice them length wise)
Tamarind - Of a size of small lemon (soaked in warm water)
1-1 1/2 teaspoon of sambhar powder
1 teaspoon of Mustard Seeds
1 teaspoon of Chana Dal
1-2 tablespoon of Grated Coconut
1 teaspoon of Poppy seeds(khus-khus)
2-3 tablespoon of Sesame oil
Cilantro
Salt

Grind the grated coconut and the poppy seeds together with little water.Keep it aside.

Heat some oil in a vessel.Add mustard seeds and when it splutters add chana dal.Fry them.Then add green chillies,garlic pods and onions.Fry for 1-2 mins till they turn transparent.
Add the chopped tomatoes,okras and fry for 1-2 mins.Now add the sambhar powder,mix well and saute for 10 secs.
Add the tamarind extract,salt and mix well.Cover the vessel and cook for 4-5 mins.Stir inbetween.Now add the ground coconut paste.Mix well,cover and cook for 2-3 mins.

Garnish with cilantro and serve with rice.

Mutter Paneer Masala

2007-09-20T12:40:00.000-07:00

Mutter Paneer/Green peas Masala..who doesnt love this dish ? This is an excellent side dish for any kind of Indian Bread and can also be had with Ghee Rice/Jeera Rice/Pulav. For those who love paneer, here is the recipe of this esthetic dish.Enjoy ! :-)

Ingredients :

1 medium onion sliced into small pieces
2 medium size tomatoes
1/2 cup of paneer cubes (Fry the paneer cubes in oil)
1 cup of green peas
1 Green chilli
1/2 tablespoon of Red Chilli Powder
1/2 teaspoon of ginger garlic paste
1 teaspoon of Turmeric Powder
1/2 tablespoon of cumin seeds
1/2 tablespoon of coriander powder
1/2 tablespoon of Garam Masala powder
3-4 tablespoon of Oil/ghee
2 bay leaves
3-4 cloves
Salt

To make Tomato Puree :

Grind the tomatoes and the green chilli together with 1/2 cup of water.Keep the puree aside.

Heat some oil/ghee in a deep saute pan.Fry cumin seeds,bay leaves and cloves.Add onions,ginger garlic paste and fry them till the onions turn transparent.
Now add tomato puree,required salt,red chilli powder,turmeric powder,coriander powder and garam masala powder.Mix well and saute for a min.Cover the pan and cook for 3-4 mins.
Now add the fried paneer cubes,green peas and mix well.Cover the pan and cook in medium flame 4-5 mins.

Serve hot with any kind of Indian bread/Basmati Rice and enjoy!

Baingan Patiyala

2007-09-19T14:30:00.001-07:00

I got this recipe from a cookery show.It made my mouth water and i couldnt wait to try this recipe ! Its such a rich dish made with cashewnut paste :-) Yummy all the way...I made this dish with lots of gusto and the result was fab ! So, if you like eggplant , this recipe must be one of your prime choice to try !

Ingredients :

8-10 Small Eggplants
1 medium onion sliced into small pieces
1 cup of chopped tomatoes
1/2 tablespoon of Red Chilli Powder
1/2 teaspoon of ginger garlic paste
1 teaspoon of Turmeric Powder
1/2 tablespoon of cumin powder
1/2 tablespoon of coriander powder
1/2 tablespoon of Garam Masala powder
3-4 tablespoon of Oil
Salt

To make Cashewnut Paste :

Soak 10-12 cashewnuts in water for 30 mins.Grind them to make a paste with little water.

Wash and slit eggplants into four,without cutting them through.Brush some oil on the eggplants and keep aside.Preheat oven.
Now,brush a baking tray with some oil,arrange eggplants and bake them for 10 mins at 350 Degree Celsius.Alternatively you can shallow fry the eggplants in a frying pan.

Heat some oil in a deep saute pan.Add onions,ginger garlic paste and fry them till the onions become transparent.
Now add tomatoes,required salt,red chilli powder,turmeric powder,cumin powder,coriander powder and garam masala powder.Mix well and saute for 2-3 mins.
Add the cashewnut paste and 1/2 cup of water.Mix well and stir for 2 mins.
Now add the baked eggplants,mix well.Cover the pan and cook in medium flame for 5-7 mins.

Serve hot with rotis and enjoy this beautiful dish !

Potato Rice

2007-09-18T14:00:00.001-07:00

Potato Rice....Sometime back, I had a party at home and i remember how muzzy i was on the previous day thinking what rice dish to make for the party. ( Surprisingly it took me little time to settle conclusively on the other dishes :-) ) I was looking for a simple and a yummy rice dish since i did not want to spend a long time in the kitchen.
I ended up calling my mom who is my wise and trusted guide and advisor.She gave me this wonderful recipe of Potato rice.I made it exactly the way she told me to do it except that i forgot to add cloves and bay leaves:-) .The party was a conspicuous success and everybody loved my Potato Rice.Kids loved it too!:-)

Ingredients :

2 cups of Basmati Rice (Wash,clean and soak in water for 30 mins)
1 big potato (Peel the skin and chop them into small pieces)
5-6 tablespoon of green peas(optional)
1/2 cup of chopped onions
4-5 tablespoon of chopped tomatoes
1-2 green chillies
7-8 cashewnuts (broken into halves)
2-3 tablespoon of Oil/ghee
1 tablespoon of Ghee
1/2 tablespoon of turmeric powder
1/2 tablepsoon of coriander powder
1/2 tablespoon of cumin powder
1 teaspoon of garam masala powder
5-6 tablespoon of Mint Leaves
Salt

Heat some oil/ghee in a deep saute pan.Fry the cashewnuts and once they start changing color, add the chopped onions and green chillies.Fry onions till they start changing color.Do not over fry them.
Then add tomatoes,turmeric powder,coriander powder,cumin powder and garam masala powder.
Mix well and saute for 3-4 mins.Add the potatoes,green peas and mint leaves.Mix well and saute for 2 mins.Now add the basmati rice (after draining the water) and mix well.
Saute for 2 more mins.Cook the rice in a rice cooker or pressure cooker.Serve hot with raitha.

Paneer Jalfraezi

2007-09-17T13:14:00.001-07:00

This is a very simple paneer dish that can be made in just 20-30 mins including the time to cut the vegetables. The dish looks so good with Bellpepper and tomatoes chopped length wise.Vegetables like cauliflower/carrot can also be added.

Ingredients :

1 cup of Paneer (cut them into long pieces)
1/2 cup of Bell Pepper (chopped length wise)
1/2 cup of onions(chop onions length wise)
1/2 cup of chopped tomatoes (chop tomatoes length wise)
1/2 tablespoon of Cumin Seeds(Jeera)
A little less than 1/2 tablespoon of Red Chilli Powder
1 1/2 tablespoon of grated ginger
1 Red Chilli
1 Green chilli
1/2 tablespoon of Turmeric Powder
1/2 tablespoon of Garam Masala powder
3-4 tablespoon of Oil/Ghee
1-2 tablespoon of Vinegar
3-4 tablespoon of fresh cilantro
Salt

Heat some oil in a saute pan.Fry cumin seeds and then the Red Chilli,grated ginger.Then add the onions and green chilli.Fry till the onions turn transparent.Then add the tomatoes,fry for a min and then add the chopped bellpepper.Now add the turmeric powder,red chilli powder,required salt and the garam masala powder.Mix well.Cover the pan and cook for 2-3 mins.
Now add the Paneer pieces,vinegar and mix well.Cover the pan and cook for 2 mins.Serve hot with rotis.

Tomato Rice

2007-09-16T11:24:00.000-07:00

Tomato Rice...Am sure tomato rice can be made in several different ways.This is one such method which is very simple to make and very delicious!
Got this excellent recipe from my mom and thought of sharing it with my readers.

Ingredients :

2 cups of Basmati Rice (Wash,clean and soak in water for 30 mins)
1 medium size onion (chopped)
2 big Tomatoes (chopped into small pieces)
1 Garlic Pod (Optional)
1/2 tablespoon of chana dal (soak in water for 5-10 mins)
1 green chilli
7-8 cashewnuts (broken into halves)
1 tablespoon of grated ginger
2 tablespoon of Oil
1 tablespoon of Ghee
1/2 tablespoon of turmeric powder
1/2 - 1 tablepsoon of red chilli powder
Salt

Heat some oil in a deep saute pan.Fry chana dal,green chillies,grated ginger and the broken cashwenuts.Now add the chopped onions,mix well and fry till it turns golden.

Then add tomatoes,turmeric powder,red chilli powder and the required salt.Mix well and saute till the tomatoes become tender.(You can also make this tomato mix in advance,put it in an airtight container and store it in the fridge.It should be used within 4-5 days from the date of preparation).

Now drain the water completely from the soaked basmati rice and add it to the tomato mix.Add 1 tablespoon of ghee,mix well and saute for 2 mins.Cook the rice in a rice cooker or pressure cooker.Serve hot with raitha and papad/chips.

Aloo Gobi Masala(Potato Cauliflower Masala)

2007-09-12T14:44:00.001-07:00

The rattling combination of Potatoes with cauliflower in the form of Aloo Gobi Masala is a terrific dish!My husband's face glows and shines when he just hears the name 'Aloo Gobi'.He is such a bonafide fan of Potatoes and also loves cauliflower.
I got this recipe from my mom,so I would like to dedicate this post to her :-)
I was quite surprised when my mom told me to mix the spices for the masala(red chilli powder,coriander powder,turmeric powder,ginger)in water.The reason she gave me made a lot of sense.
Yes,by mixing the spices in water the spices would not get burnt out when we fry them.I follow the same mode of cooking when i make vegetable korma(you can find the recipe of vegetable korma in my Dry Curries/Gravy categories).

Ingredients :
1 large potato (chopped)
2 cups of chopped Cauliflower florets
1/2 cup of chopped onions(chop onions length wise)
3-4tablespoon of chopped tomatoes
1/2 tablespoon of Cumin Seeds(Jeera)
1-2 Bay Leaves
3-4 Cloves
A little more than 1/2 tablespoon of Red Chilli Powder
1 1/2 tablespoon of grated ginger
1-2 Green chillies(chopped)
1 tablespoon of Coriander powder
1/2 tablespoon of Turmeric Powder
1/2 tablespoon of Amchur Powder(Dry Mango Powder)
3-4 tablespoon of Oil/Ghee
3-4 tablespoon of fresh cilantro
Salt

In a small vessel mix the grated ginger,red chilli powder,turmeric powder,coriander powder by adding 5-6 tablespoon of water.
Heat 3-4 tablespoon of Ghee/Oil in a deep saute pan.Fry cumin seeds,bay leaves and cloves.Now add chopped onions,green chillies and fry for for 2-3 mins.Then add the chopped tomatoes and saute for 2 mins.Now add the above mixed ingredients,mix well and fry till the oil seperates from the masala.
Add potatoes,the cauliflower florets and salt.Mix well and saute.Add 1/2 cup of water,cover the pan and cook in medium flame for 10-12 mins.Saute inbetween.
Once the vegetables become tender add amchur powder and mix well.Garnish with cilantro and Serve hot with roti or any Indian bread.

Urulaikizhanghu (Potato) Podimas

2007-09-11T15:07:00.000-07:00

Urulaikizhanghu (Potato) Podimas..is a simple potato curry with a tone of lemon juice.Its an excellent sidedish for Sambhar/Rasam rice.

Ingredients :

2 medium size Potatoes (Boil the potatoes,peel the skin and chop them)
1/2 tablespoon of Mustard Seeds
1/2 tablespoon of Urad Dal
1/2 tablepsoon of Chana dal
1/2 tablespoon of grated ginger
A Pinch of Asafoetida powder
1-2 Green chillies(chopped)
1/2 teaspoon of Turmeric Powder
1 1/2 tablespoon of Lemon Juice
2-3 tablespoon of Sesame Oil
Salt

Heat 2-3 tablespoon of Oil in a deep saute pan.Fry mustard seeds,urad dal and chana dal.Then add the green chillies and the grated ginger pieces.Fry for a minute.
Add the boiled potatoes,salt and turmeric powder.Mix well and saute.Sprinkle little water.Now cover the pan and cook in medium flame for 5-6 mins.Saute inbetween.
Add a pinch of asafoetida powder.Now add the lemon juice,mix well and serve hot as a sidedish for Rasam/Sambhar and Rice.

Garlic Rasam

2007-09-11T14:04:00.000-07:00

Garlic Rasam...just add garlic pods along with tomatoes when you make normal tomato rasam.Its that simple and the aroma is ingratiating !
For all the rasam lovers..here is the recipe :-)

Ingredients :

1 cup of cooked toor dal(Boil the toor dal with 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder.It has to be watery)
Tamarind Soaked in Water (Use a tamarind of a size of Lemon)
8-9 Garlic Pods
1 big Tomatoe - Chop into small pieces
1/2 tablespoon of Mustard Seeds
1/2 tablespoon of Cumin Seeds
2 tablespoon of sesame Oil
1 1/2 tablespoon of Rasam Powder
A pinch of Asafoetida powder
Curry leaves
Cilantro
Salt

Boil the tamarind extract with tomatoes and garlic pods.Cover the vessel and boil for 2-3 mins in medium flame.Now add the Rasam powder,mix well and boil for 3-4 mins.Stir inbetween.
Now add the toor dal,salt.Mix well and boil for 5-6 mins.Stir inbewteen.Add a pinch of asafoetida powder.
To make tadka, heat some oil in a small pan.Add mustard seeds,once it starts spluttering add the cumin seeds and then the curry leaves.Add this tadka to the rasam.
Garnish with cilantro and serve hot with rice.

Araichu Vitta Sambhar

2007-09-07T14:23:00.000-07:00

Araichu Vitta Sambhar..is a special kind of sambhar thats made without the usual sambhar powder. The ground mix(the specially made powder used for this sambhar) contains coconut and when coconut combines with toor dal,methi seeds,coriander seeds and red chillies the flavour and the aroma that this sambhar brings is just fab!
I made this sambhar with Okras and onions.Though Onions are optional,vegetables like Eggplant,Radish,Carrots,pumpkin can also be used.
For those who love Sambhar,Araichu vitta sambhar is something you must try :-)

Ingredients :

1 cup of cooked toor dal(Boil the toor dal with 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder.It has to be semi watery)
Tamarind Soaked in Water ( tamarind of a size of Lemon)
1/2 medium size onion - chopped lengthwise
6-7 Okras (Chopped)
1/2 tablespoon of Mustard Seeds
2 Red Chillies
2 tablespoon of Oil
A pinch of Asafoetida powder
Curry leaves
Cilantro
Salt

Fry the following ingredients in 1/2 tablespoon of oil and then Grind them without water(Must be in the form of powder)

2 1/2 tablespoon of Chana dal
1/2 teaspoon of Methi Seeds
1 teaspoon of Coriander Powder/Seeds
3-4 Red Chillies
1/4 cup of grated Coconut

Heat 2 tablespoon of oil in a vessel.Fry mustard seeds and red chillies.Add chopped onions,chopped okras and fry for 2 mins.Now add the tamarind extract.Mix well,cover the vessel and let it boil for 5-6 mins.Stir inbetween.Now add the ground powder mix.Mix well,cover again and let it boil for 3-4 mins.
Now add toor dal,required salt and mix well.Cover the vessel and boil again for 5 mins.Stir inbetween.Heat some oil in a small vessel and fry some curry leaves and add them in the sambhar.
Before serving add a pinch of Asafoetida powder and garnish the sambhar with cilantro.Serve hot with rice and enjoy !

Dal Maharani

2007-09-06T14:36:00.000-07:00

Dal Maharani ! I got this recipe from a friend and when i asked her whats behind the name...she did not have an answer.May be its afterall the queen of all dal recipes:-)...Today i decided to make some fusion food...so i made Dal Maharani,Jeera Rice and Kathrikai Podi Curry.
It was fun cooking and eating this combo !

Ingredients :

1 cup of cooked toor dal(Boil the toor dal with 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder.It has to be semi watery)
1/2 cup ofchopped onions
1/2 Tomato(chopped)
1/2 tablespoon of cumin seeds
2 Red Chillies
2 tablespoon of oil/ghee
2 tablespoon of lemon juice
Salt

Fry the following ingredients in 1/2 tablespoon of oil and then Grind them with little water.

2-3 garlic pods
2 pieces of ginger
2 Green Chillies
3 tablespoon of grated Coconut

Heat 2 tablespoon of oil/ghee in a vessel.Fry cumin seeds and red chillies.Add chopped onions and fry till they turn transparent.Now add the tomatoes and saute for 2-3 mins till they become tender.
Now add the cooked toor dal,salt,ground paste mix well.Cover the vessel and cook for 7-8 mins.Remove from flame,add the lemon juice and Serve hot with Jeera rice/rotis.

Kathrikai Podi Curry(Powdered Brinjal Curry)

2007-09-06T13:50:00.000-07:00

Kathrikai Podi Curry/Powdered EggPlant Curry is a Tamilnadu Delicacy.Its a lovely side dish that goes well not only with rice but also rotis.
If you love Eggplant you must try this recipe :-)

Ingredients :

1/2 kg Eggplants(small ones)
A pinch of Asafoetida powder
Salt
3 Tablespoon of Sesame Oil

For the Podi(powder) :

2 Red Chillies
2-3 tablespoon of Chana Dal
2 tablespoon of Grated Coconut
1/2 teaspoon of Coriander Powder/Seeds
2 tablespoon of Sesame oil

Heat some oil.Fry chana dal and red chillis.Fry the grated coconut along with coriander powder/seeds separately till the coconut turns golden color.Now grind the fried ingredients without water.Keep the podi/powder aside.

Heat some oil in a deep saute pan.Add the chopped Egg plants.Add required salt.Mix well,cover the pan and cook in medium flame for 6-7 mins. Saute inbetween.Now add the podi(powder) and mix well.
Cover the pan and cook for 2-3 mins.
Add a pinch of Asafoetida powder.Mix well and serve hot.

Vegetable Korma

2007-09-05T13:49:00.001-07:00

This is my mom's version of Vegetable Korma and one of my fav dishes ! If you add raisins,cashewnuts,pineapple to this recipe its Navarathan Korma! :-))
This recipe is very yummy and kids will love it too. You can also use cream/malai instead of milk.

Ingredients :

1 medium size Potato (chopped)
1 1/2 cups of Mixed Vegetables (Chopped carrots,Green Peas,Cauliflower,Green Beans)
1/2 Cup of Paneer
1/2 cup of Green bell Pepper(chopped)
2-3 tablespoon of chopped tomatoes
1/2 tablespoon of Cumin Seeds(Jeera)
1-2 Bay Leaves
2-3 Cloves
1/2 tablespoon of Red Chilli Powder
1/2 tablespoon of grated ginger
A Pinch of Hing
1-2 Green chillies(chopped)
1/2 teaspoon of Coriander powder
1/2 teaspoon of Turmeric Powder
1/2 teaspoon of Cumin Powder
1/2 tablespoon of garam masala powder
1/2 tablespoon of Amchur Powder(Dry Mango Powder)
1/2 cup of milk
1 tablespoon of corn flour
2-3 tablespoon of Oil/Ghee
Salt

In a small vessel mix the grated ginger,green chillies,red chilli powder,turmeric powder,cumin powder by adding 3-4 tablespoon of water.Heat 2-3 tablespoon of Ghee/Oil in a deep saute pan.Fry hing,cumin seeds,bay leaves and cloves.
Now add the above mixed ingredients and fry for a minute.Add potatoes and the MixedVegetables.Mix well and saute.Now cover the pan and cook in medium flame for 7-8 mins.Saute inbetween.
Add the chopped green bell peppers,paneer.Mix well and saute.Before adding milk,mix corn flour in milk, add it to the korma and mix well.
Add required salt and mix again.Cover the pan and cook for 3-4 mins.Add garam masala powder, amchur powder and mix well.
Before serving garnish with chopped tomatoes and serve the hot Vegetable Korma with rice/roti or any Indian bread.

Jeera Potato Fry

2007-09-04T12:46:00.001-07:00

Jeera Potato Fry...Though am not a big fan of potaoes,I have always had a special liking for this dish.May be its because of the combination of potatoes with Jeera.
Got this recipe from my mom and thought will post it for all the potato lovers.

Ingredients :

2 Big Potatoes(chopped)
1/2 tablespoon of Cumin Seeds(Jeera)
1/2 teaspoon of cumin powder
1/2 teaspoon of ginger garlic paste
A little less than half teaspoon of red chilli powder
A Pinch of cardamom powder
A little less than half teaspoon of black pepper powder
2-3 tablespoon of Oil/Ghee
Salt

Heat 2-3 tablespoon of Ghee/Oil in a saute pan.Fry cumin seeds.Now add the chopped potatoes,ginger garlic paste and saute for 2-3 mins.Add cumin powder and red chilli powder.Mix well and saute again.Now cover the pan and cook the potatoes in medium flame for 7-8 mins.Saute inbetween.
Once the potatoes are cooked, add the pepper powder and the cardamom powder.Mix well and saute for 2 more mins.Serve hot with Rotis.

Paneer Makhani

2007-08-30T17:18:00.000-07:00

Paneer Makhani...Paneer in tomato sauce with other spices is a piquant dish which is easy make.Being a big paneer fan this dish rocks!

Ingredients :

200 Grams of Paneer(Fry the paneer cubes in oil)
1 1/2 cups of Tomato Puree
2 green chillis
1 teaspoon of ginger garlic paste
A little more than 1/2 tablespoon of red chilli powder
1/2 teaspoon of garam masala powder
1/2 teaspoon of cardamom powder
2-3 tablespoon of Butter/Ghee
1/2 teaspoon of Peppercorns/black pepper powder
5-6 cloves
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon of Kasuri Methi(dried fenugreek leaves)
2-3 tablespoon of Malai
Oil ( to fry paneer)
Salt

Heat 2-3 tablespoon of butter in a deep saute pan.Fry the cloves,bay leaf,peppercorns/pepper powder,cardamom powder,green chillies and ginger garlic paste.Stir well and add the tomato puree,salt,red chilli powder,garam masala powder.Mix well,cover the pan and boil it for 6-7 mins.Keep stirring for 5 more mins in medium flame .
Now add the fried paneer cubes and the kasuri methi.cook on medium heat for 7-8 mins.Add malai and serve hot with rice/rotis.

Kadai Bhindi

2007-08-29T14:13:00.000-07:00

Kadai Bhindi is an awesome dish that contains most of the spices.The rare combination of bhindi with Bell peppers and green peas might sound a bit strange,but the taste is really enticing.
This dish can also be made only with Bhindi.

Ingredients :

1 cup of chopped Bhindi(okra)
1/2 cup of bell peppers(chopped length wise)
1/2 cup of green peas
A little more than 1/2 cup of Onions chopped length wise
1/2 tomato chopped length wise
1 green chilli
A small piece of ginger
1 teaspoon of ginger garlic paste
1/2 tablespoon of turmeric powder
A little more than 1/2 tablespoon of red chilli powder
1/2 teaspoon of garam masala powder
1/2 teaspoon of coriander powder
1/2 teaspoon of amchur powder
1/2 teaspoon of cumin powder
1 teaspoon of cumin seeds
3 tablespoon of oil
Salt

Heat some oil in a kadai.Fry cumin seeds.Add onions,green chilli,ginger and ginger garlic paste.Fry for 2-3 mins.Now add the tomatoes and saute for 2 mins.
Add turmeric powder,red chilli powder,coriander powder,cumin powder,garam masala powder and amchur powder.Mix well and saute.
Add okras,bell peppers,green peas,required salt and mix well.Now cover the kadai and cook till the vegetables turn soft.Serve hot with rotis/rice.

Cold Coffee Delite

2007-08-28T20:54:00.000-07:00

Iam not a big fan of coffee.But cold coffee with icecream did sound a little tempting.
I learnt how to make cold coffee from a friend who keeps experimenting different beverages at home.
I tried it with a little variation by adding some icecream to the drink and the outcome was delightful! Cold coffee is indeed an idyllic drink that can be enjoyed on a hot summer evening.
With a bit of Vannila/Chocolate chip Icecream this drink is really scrumptious :-)

Ingredients : (Serves 2)

Instant coffee Powder - 2 Tablespoon
A little more than 1/2 cup of Milk
Powdered Sugar (required amount/as per taste)
Ice Cubes - 3
Vannila Icecream - 2 tablespoon
Chocolate chip Icecream - 1 tablespoon (optional)

Dilute the instant coffee powder in 2-3 tablespoon of hot water.Now using a blender , blend the diluted coffee powder,milk,powdered sugar together on high for 30-40 secs.
Then add the ice cubes and blend again for 10 seconds.You can either blend the icecream along with the ice cubes or the icecream can just be added on the top when you serve the cold coffee.Enjoy your drink ! :-))

Daily Dal

2007-08-28T13:09:00.001-07:00

This is a simple dal recipe and really helps when you run short of vegetables.Its very tasty and goes well with rotis and rice too.

Ingredients :

1 cup of cooked toor dal(Boil the toor dal with 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder.It has to be semi watery)
1/2 cup ofchopped onions
1/2 Tomato(chopped)
2-3 garlic pods
1/2 tablespoon of cumin seeds
2 green chillies
2 pieces of ginger
2 Red Chillies(broken)
A pinch of asafoetida powder
2 tablespoon of sesame oil
Salt
Cilantro

Heat 2 tablespoon of sesame oil in a deep pan.Fry cumin seeds and red chillies.Add chopped onions,green chillies,ginger pieces,garlic pods and fry everything together till the onions become soft.
Now add the tomatoes and saute for 2-3 mins till they become tender.
Now add the cooked toor dal,salt and mix well.Cook for 4-5 mins.Remove from flame,add asafoetida powder and garnish with cilantro.Serve hot with rice/rotis.

Lemon Rasam

2007-08-27T18:08:00.000-07:00

Lemon rasam...my all time fav !
Its made without tamarind or rasam powder.For those who arent familiar with this type of rasam...here is the recipe.

Ingredients :

1/2 cup of cooked toor dal(Boil the toor dal with 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder.The cooked dal has to be watery)
1/2 Tomato(chopped)
1 teaspoon of mustard seeds
1 teaspoon of cumin seeds
2 green chillies
2-3 pieces of ginger
2-3 tablespoon of lemon juice
A pinch of asafoetida powder
2 tablespoon of sesame oil
Salt
Cilantro

Heat 2 tablespoon of sesame oil in a vessel.Fry mustard seeds.When it starts spluttering add cumin seeds,green chillies,ginger pieces and fry them.
Add 1 cup of water,required salt and chopped tomatoes.Stir well,cover the vessel and cook for 3-4 mins.Then add the cooked toor dal.Mix well,cook for 5 mins and remove from the flame.
After some time add the lemon juice,asafoetida powder and mix well.Garnish with cilantro and serve hot with rice.

Bendakaya Pulusu Koora (Okra Tamarind Dry Curry)

2007-08-27T17:50:00.001-07:00

This is my another addition to the dry curry recipes category.
I love Andhra cuisine and learnt this dish from a friend.Its easy to make and taste so good.I normally make it as a dry curry recipe.It can also be made as a gravy.
I used rasam powder in this curry since it has most of the spices.Alternatively Red Chilli powder can also be used.

Ingredients :

2 cups of chopped Okra(Bendakaya or Vendaikai)
2 Tablespoon of Tamarind Extract
A little more than 1/2 tablespoon of Rasam Powder
A pinch of asafoetida powder
2 tablespoon of sesame oil
Salt

Heat 2 tablespoon of sesame oil in a deep saute pan.Add the okra pieces and saute for few mins.
Add tamarind extract,salt and the rasam powder.Mix well,cover the pan and cook till the okras becomes soft,tender and dry.
Then add asafoetida powder and mix well and serve hot with rice/rotis.

Bell Pepper Sambhar(Kudaimilagai Sambhar)

2007-08-27T17:09:00.000-07:00

I love the aroma of this sambhar!This sambhar can also be served as a side dish to dosas/idlis.Its simply amazing !
I just added few small onions for the flavour though that is optional.

Ingredients :

1/2 cup of cooked toor dal(Boil the toor dal with 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder)
1 Medium size Bell Pepper(Green)-chopped
2-3 small onions (Optional)
1 teaspoon of mustard seeds
1/2 teaspoon of methi seeds
2 tablespoon of sambhar powder
Tamarind of a size of a lemon soaked in warm water
A pinch of asafoetida powder
2 tablespoon of sesame oil
Salt
Cilantro

Heat 2 tablespoon of sesame oil in a vessel.Fry mustard seeds and when it starts spluttering add methi seeds,small onions(which is optional) and chopped bell peppers.Saute them for a minute or two.Add sambhar powder,mix and saute again for 2 more mins.
Add tamarind extract and the required salt.Cover the vessel and boil for 5 mins in medium size.
Now add the cooked dal and mix well.Cover the vessel and boil it for 6-7 mins.
Adjust salt and add a pinch of asafoetida powder.Mix well and garnish with cilantro.
Serve hot with rice.This sambhar goes well with idlis and dosas too !

Beans,Carrot,Peas Porial(Curry)

2007-08-27T16:57:00.000-07:00

This is a very simple dry curry recipe.This curry can be made even without coconut.Just 1 teaspoon of coconut oil can be added in the curry instead of grated coconut.

Ingredients :

2 cups of vegetables- chopped green beans,green peas and grated carrot
1/2 tablespoon of mustard seeds
1/2 tablespoon of urad dal
2-3 green chillies
2 small pieces of ginger
A pinch of asafoetida powder
2 tablespoon of sesame oil
2-3 tablespoon of grated coconut
Salt

Heat 2 tablespoon of sesame oil in a deep saute pan.Fry mustard seeds and when it starts spluttering add urad dal,ginger and green chillies and saute.
Then add green beans,green peas,grated carrot,required salt and mix well.Saute for 2 mins.Sprinkle little water, cover the pan and cook till the vegetables become soft and tender.Once the vegetables are cooked,add grated coconut,asafoetida powder,mix well. Saute for 2 more mins and remove from flame.

Tomato Coconut Chutney

2007-08-24T13:01:00.001-07:00

I love the color of this tangy chutney! Thanks to tomatoes :-) can make wonders with them:-))

Ingredients :

1 cup of chopped tomato
1/2 cup of grated coconut
4-5 tablespoon of chopped onions
2-3 red chiilies
2 small pieces of ginger
1 teaspoon of mustard seeds
1 teaspoon of urad dal
Cilantro
2-3 tablespoon of oil
Salt

Heat some oil in a pan.Fry red chiilies and then add onions,ginger and saute till the color changes.Add tomatoes and saute for 2 mins.Then add the grated coconut.Fry for another 2 mins.Grind everything together with required amount of water and salt.
Heat the remaining oil in the same pan and fry the mustard seeds,urad dal and add this tadka to the chutney.Garnish the chutney with Cilantro and serve with idlis/dosas.

Vegetable Kofta Curry

2007-08-23T16:50:00.000-07:00

Vegetable Kofta curry....I got this recipe from my mom.I love this dish! Its yummy yummy and yummy all the way ! :-)

To make Koftas:

1 Medium Potato(chopped)
1 cup of Mixed Vegetables like Beans,Green Peas and carrots
2 1/2 tablespoon of Besan(gram flour)
1 Green Chilli
1 Tablespoon of Mint Leaves(chopped)
1/2 teaspoon of Garam Masala
Oil for frying
Salt(required amount)

Boil all the vegetables together and mash them.Mix all the other ingredients with the vegetables.Make medium size balls out of this dough(as in the picture above).
Heat oil in a deep frying pan.Once the oil is hot enough to fry,drop the kofta balls and fry till they turn golden brown.

For the Gravy :

A little more than 1/2 cup of chopped Onions
1 tomato(cut into small pieces)
1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder
1/2 tablespoon of red chilli powder
1/2 teaspoon of garam masala powder
1/2 tablespoon of cumin seeds
2 Green Chillies
2 small pieces of Ginger
1 tablespoon of Mint leaves
Salt
2-3 tablespoon of Oil

Heat 2 tablespoon of oil in a saute pan.Fry cumin seeds.Then add onions,ginger,green chillies and saute till the color changes.Add tomatoes and saute.Add turmeric powder,red chilli powder,garam masala powder and salt.Mix well,saute and cook for 2-3 mins.Grind everything together with little water.

Heat the remaining oil in a pan and cook the gravy for 2 mins.Add little water if the gravy looks very thick.Adjust salt.Garnish with Mint Leaves.Now add the Koftas and cook for 2-3 mins.
If the dish is going to be served later add the koftas later in the gravy.Serve hot with Rotis/Naan!

Capsicum Corn Masala

2007-08-22T14:04:00.001-07:00

This is a delicious dish for those who love corn.I used frozen corn kernels to make this dish.You can also use fresh corn after boiling them.

Ingredients:

1 Medium size Bell Pepper(chopped)
1/2 cup of corn kernels(if not frozen boik them)
1/2 cup of chopped onions
1/2 tomato(cut into small pieces)
1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder
1/2 tablespoon of red chilli powder
1 teaspoon of coriander powder
1/2 teaspoon of garam masala powder
1/2 tablespoon of cumin seeds
1/2 tablespoon of ginger garlic paste
Cilantro
2 tablespoon of Oil
Salt

Heat some oil in a pan.Then fry cumin seeds.Add onions, ginger garlic paste. and saute till the color changes.Add tomatoes and saute again.Add turmeric powder,red chilli powder,coriander powder and garam masala powder.Mix well and cook for a while.
Now add capsicum.Mix again,cover the pan and cook for 3-4 mins.Then add the boiled corn,salt. Mix well, cover again and cook for 3-4 mins.Add cilantro and serve hot with rotis.

Vegetable Biryani

2007-08-21T15:41:00.000-07:00

Vegetable Biryani ! I really love the word 'Biryani' for some unknown reason and Veg Biryani is one of my fav rice dishes.Who doesnt love it? :-)
normally do not use biryani masala powder to make this dish.Before learning how to make this dish I always thought that preparing this dish would be a big deal.But this recipe is really simple and doesnt even take 30 mins if you have all the vegetables cut and ready.Thanks to Frozen Mixed vegetables which redeems and buys back time :-))
Iam happy to present this version of Veg Biryani in my blog ! Try this and let me know! Its Biryani time:-)

Ingredients:

2 Cups of Basmati Rice/ordinary Rice (Clean and soak in water for 1/2 an hour)
1 1/2 cups of Mixed Vegetables (Potatoes,Beans,Green peas,Carrot,Cauliflower)
1/2 cup of choped onions
1/2 tomato(cut into small pieces)
1 bay leaf
4-5 cloves
Salt
2 tablespoon of Oil/ghee

Grind the following ingredients together with little water

3 tablespoon of grated coconut
1 cup of Cilantro
2 small pieces of Ginger
2-3 garlic pods
2-3 Green chillis
2 cardamoms

Heat some oil/ghee in a deep frying pan.Then fry the bay leaf,cloves.Add onions and fry till they turn soft.Add the vegetables and the tomatoes.Mix well.
Add the ground masala,salt and mix well.Now add the soaked rice and mix well.Shift the contents to a pressure cooker or a rice cooker and do not over cook. Serve hot with raitha !

Aloo Palak Bhaji (Potato Spinach curry)

2007-08-20T16:10:00.000-07:00

When i was browsing the fridge today I saw a pack of fresh baby spinach that smiled at me and said 'I taste good and am healthy too' :-).Then I saw those cute small potatoes and made up my mind to make Aloo Palak Bhaji(Potato Spinach Curry).
Aloo is my husband's fav and I love spinach! So, here is the recipe of this simple yet tasty sidedish !

Ingredients:

2 Cups of Chopped Spinach
6-7 Small potatoes (Peel the skin and chop them)
1/2 cup of chooped onions
1 teaspoon of Cumin Seeds
A small piece of Ginger
1/2 tablespoon of Coriander Powder
2 garlic pods(cut into small)
1 Green chilli
1/2 teaspoon of Garam Masala
1/2 Tablespoon of Lemon Juice
1 tablespoon of cilantro
2 tablespoon of Oil/ghee
Salt

Heat some oil/ghee in a pan and fry the cumin seeds.Then add the onions,ginger,garlic and green chilli.Saute them for 4-5 mins.Then add the potatoes,salt,coriander Powder and mix well.Add 1 cup of water.Cover the pan and cook for 5 mins till the potatoes are soft.
Then add the chopped spinach.Mix well and saute.Cover the pan and cook for 3-4 mins.Then add garam masala powder.Mix well.Remove the pan from the fire.
Add lemon juice.Mix well and garnish with Cilantro.Serve hot with rotis !

Kathirikai Porial ( Eggplant curry)

2007-08-20T15:34:00.000-07:00

Kathirikai poriyal(Eggplant curry) is the side dish that i love to have with Mor Kozhambhu.Here is this simple Eggplant curry recipe.

Ingredients:

1 big Egg Plant(chopped into small pieces)
1/2 tablespoon of coriander powder
1/2 tablespoon of Red chilli powder
1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder
1/2 tablespoon of Mustard
1/2 tablespoon of Urad Dal
2 tablespoon of Oil
Salt

Heat some oil in a saute pan.Add mustard seeds and once it splutters add the urad dal and fry it.Then add the Chopped Egg plant along with turmeric powder,red chiili powder,coriander powder,salt and mix well.Cover the pan and cook in medium flame for 5-6 mins.Since it is not a deep fried curry type,this eggplant curry or kathirikai porial would be soft.Cook until done.The curry is ready to be served !

Mor Kozhambhu

2007-08-20T15:18:00.000-07:00

Mor Kozhambhu....is a very simple South Indian dish made with Buttermilk(Mor).Vegetables like Okra/Egg plant/White Pumpkin can be added in Mor Kozhambhu.I made this dish with fried okra.
Okra Mor Kozhambhu,rice with Kathirikai poriyal(Egg Plant curry) has always been my fav meal combo! For those who are not very familiar with this dish, here is the recipe !

Ingredients:

5-6 Okras (cut them into small pieces)
2 1/2 cups of Buttermilk
1/2 tablespoon of coriander powder
1 1/2 tablespoon of grated coconut
1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder
1/2 tablespoon of Mustard
2-3 Red Chillies
1 tablespoon of curry leaves
A pinch ofAsafoetida(hing) powder
Oil
Salt

Soak 1 tablespoon of Rice + 1 tablespoon of toor dal + 1 green chilli + 1 tablespoon of Cumin Seeds in water for 1 hour.Grind the soaked ingredients along with coriander powder and grated coconut with little water to form a paste.Add turmeric powder and the required salt to the butter milk.

Heat some oil in a saute pan.Fry the chopped okras for 2-3 mins.Keep it aside.Now, start boiling the buttermilk in slow fire.Add the ground paste, mix well and then add the fried okras.Stir well and cover the vessel.Meanwhile,in the same saute pan heat some oil and prepare tadka by frying mustard seeds,red chillies and curry leaves.Add tadka and a pinch of asafoetida powder to the boiling kozhambhu.Mix well and stir for few more mins.Adjust the salt.
Remove from fire and garnish with cilantro and serve hot with rice !

Rajma Curry

2007-08-16T12:37:00.000-07:00

Rajma/Kidney Beans....are a very good source of cholesterol-lowering fiber.Kidney beans are rich in iron and can increase your energy level by helping to consistently replenish our iron stores.
This is a Rajma dry curry recipe.You can also follow the same recipe for Rajma Masala just by adding water.

Ingredients:

2 cups of Rajma (Kidney Beans)-(Soak Rajma overnight and boil in a pressure cooker and drain the water)
1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder
1/2 tablespoon of Red Chilli Powder
1/2 tablespoon of coriander powder
1/2 tablespoon of Jeera powder
1/2 teaspoon of garam masala powder
Tomato Puree ( Blach one medium size tomato in hot water and grind it)
Salt

Heat some oil in a saute pan. Add the tomato puree.Add Salt,turmeric powder,red chilli powder,coriander powder,jeera powder,garam masala powder and mix well.Cover the saute pan and cook in medium flame for 5 mins.
Add the boiled Rajma, mix well and saute.Sprinkle little water if necessary.Cover the saute pan and cook for 8-10 mins.The curry has to be dry.Garnish with cilantro and serve hot with rotis.

Gobi Mutter Masala (Cauliflower Peas Masala)

2007-08-15T14:46:00.000-07:00

Gobi Mutter Masala has always been my favourite dish since childhood.I use to eat more rotis just for this sidedish.
I got this lip smacking recipe from my mom and wanted to share it with you all....So, here is the recipe -try it and let me know !

Ingredients:

1 1/2 Cups of Cauliflower Florets(If not frozen ,clean them,cut the cauliflowers into small florets and boil them together)
1 cup of Green Peas
3 - 4 tablespoons of oil
4-5 Cloves
Tomato Puree ( Blach one medium size tomato in hot water and grind it)
Salt
2-3 tablespoon of Cilantro/coriander leaves

Masala Paste(Grind the following)

1 cup of Chopped Onions
3-4 Garlic pods
1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder
1/2 tablespoon of Red Chilli Powder
1/2 tablespoon of coriander powder
1/2 tablespoon of Jeera powder
1/2 teaspoon of garam masala powder
2 green chillies
A small piece of ginger
7-8 cashwenuts

Heat some oil in a saute pan and fry the cloves.Then add the Masala paste,saute and cook till the oil seperates from the masala.
Add the boiled cauliflowrer,green peas and salt to the masala,mix well and saute.Add little water if necessary.Cover the saute pan and cook in medium flame for 7-8 mins.Now add the tomato puree and mix well.Cover the saute pan again and cook for 3-4 mins.
Garnish with cilantro. Serve hot with Rotis and enjoy !

Pudina(Mint) Lime Juice

2007-08-14T15:09:00.000-07:00

Pudina(Mint) Lime Juice.....Most of us love lemon juice . When combined with Pudina this green drink not only taste good but its so refreshing !
Back in India during summer I use to drink this juice daily. After moving to the United States , during summer i always make and keep a pitcher of this juice in the fridge.
Iam sure many would have had this juice.But for those who havent- here is this simple recipe.Enjoy !

Ingredients : ( Serves 3 people)

1 cup of mint leaves (remove the stem and clean)
2 1/2 glasses of Lime Juice
Sugar ( according to your taste)
A pinch of salt
A pinch of pepper
5-6 Ice cubes

Combine all the above ingredients and blend them until smooth.Adjust sugar.Filter the juice and serve chill.

Rajasthani Dal

2007-08-13T17:55:00.000-07:00

Rajasthani dal...a friend of mine gave me this recipe.Its a simple recipe that is made with moong dal and chana dal.Amchur powder gives this dal a special flavour.So todays lunch was Rajasthani Dal,Rice with Aloo fry.

Ingredients:

1 Cup of Moong Dal
1/4 cup of Chana Dal
1/2 cup of Chopped Onions
2 Red Chillies
1/2 teaspoon of Turmeric Powder
1/2 tablespoon of Red Chilli Powder
2 teaspoon of Amchur (Dry Mango Powder)
2-3 tablespoon of Oil
1/2 tablespoon of Cumin seeds
A small piece of ginger
2-3 tablespoon of Cilantro/coriander leaves
Salt

Clean and Soak the Moong Dal and Chana dal in 2 cups of water for 30 mins.Use a pressure cooker to boil dals along with turmeric powder,salt(as per taste) and ginger.Once they are done mash the dal and keep it aside.
In a vessel heat some Oil , add cumin seeds and fry them.Then add the chooped onions , red chillies and fry them till till the onion turns a little brown. Now, add the mashed dal.Mix well.
Add red chilli powder.Mix well and stir for some time.Then add Amchur powder and mix well .Stir for 2-3 mins and remove it from heat.Garnish with cilantro. Serve hot with Rice/Rotis/Rajasthani Baati.

Aloo Bonda - Sunday Special

2007-08-12T15:47:00.000-07:00

Sunday Special ! Saturdays and Sundays are 2 days i love to be lazy.But,today i wanted to make something special for my husband who loves Potatoes.When i told him in the morning that i will make Aloo Bondas for him for brunch he was excited and was impatiently waiting for garam garam Aloo Bondas.
Since we did not have any breakfast, i thought i will also make onion-tomato uthappam and coconut chutney for brunch.
This interesting menu pulled me back to my kitchen(with all laziness gone), i made our special brunch with a lot of ebullience.The outcome was a Superhit !
This sunday was indeed special :-)

Ingredients:

1 Big Potato - Boiled and Mashed well
1/2 Tablespoon red chilli powder
1/2 cup of Chopped Onions
Salt (Little since the batter would also contain salt)
2 Green Chillies
1/2 Teaspoon of Turmeric Powder
3-4 Tablespoon of chopped Cilantro(Coriander Leaves)
Oil for Frying
1/2 Tablespoon of Cumin seeds

For the Batter

1 cup of Besan
3 Tablespoon of rice flour
Pinch of Baking Powder(Optional)
1/2 Tablespoon of Red Chilli Powder
Salt
Water(to make the batter)

Make the batter and keep it aside.
In a small tawa heat a tablespoon of Oil and add cumin seeds and fry them.
Mix the Mashed potato,Chooped Onions,Red Chilli Powder,Turmeric Powder,Salt,Green Chillies,Cilantro and the fried Cumin seeds together. Make balls(which would look like a medium size lemon) out of this mixture.
Heat oil in a deep frying pan.Once the oil is hot enough to fry ,dip the ball in the batter(take it out once the ball is covered with the batter) and fry them till the bonda turns brown.
Serve them hot with Chutney of your choice and enjoy !

Green Peas Pulav

2007-08-09T12:59:00.000-07:00

For a simple lunch/dinner i would always vote for Green peas pulav...with lime/mango pickle and raitha.Frozen Green peas is something that is always available in my freezer and without any doubt it comes handy when my fridge is almost empty.
I usually think that grinding masala paste is so boring..but i end up doing it for a simple pulav or any side dish.Masala does add an alluring taste.Try this recipe and let me know !

Ingredients:

2 tablespoon Ghee/oil
1 1/2 cups of Basmati rice (clean and soak rice in water)
1 cup of green peas ( if not frozen cook the green peas till its tender )
Pinch of cardomom powder
1/2 cup of chopped onion
1 tablespoon of grated coconut
5-6 Cloves
1 Bay Leaf

For the Masala Paste : (Grind together with little water)

1/2 cup of chopped onions
2-3 Garlic pods
2 green chillies
A small piece of ginger
3 tablespoon of grated coconut

Heat oil in a skillet,fry the cloves,bay leaf and then the chopped onions.Fry for 2-3 minutes,add green peas and mix.Now add the masala paste and fry for 3-4 mins.
Add grated coconut,salt and mix.
Drain water and add the rice.Mix well and cook it in a pressure cooker/rice cooker.Serve hot with pickle/raitha.

Rawa Naral Strawberry Laddoo

2007-08-08T17:10:00.001-07:00

Iam not a big fan of sweets and so is my husband:-)
I had stocked up semolina for some reason(may be for rava upma)...saw the packs and thought..why not try making some sweet for a change?
I have never tried making anything other than payasam/kheer.So,i made this sweet and it came out pretty well(atleast in my terms) :-).
This is a common sweet in the Laddoo family.
I have just added strawberries and the outcome was delightful.

Ingredients:

3-4 tablespoon of Ghee
2 cups of Semolina(rawa)
8 Cashewnuts broken into small pieces pieces
1 cup of sugar
1/2 teaspoon cardomom powder
1/2 cup of grated coconut
3-4 strawberries(cut them into into small pieces)

Heat ghee in a skillet,fry the semolina on low heat and once it starts changing to golden colour add grated coconut,cardamom powder and cashewnuts.Mix well and fry for 2-3 more mins.
Now to make sugar syrup,cook sugar with half cup of water and stir till sugar dissolves.Increase heat and bring the syrup to a boil.Now add the syrup to the semolina mixture. Then,add the strawberry pieces and mix well.Remove it from fire and cover with a lid.
After 15 mins stir the mixture and allow it to cool.Divide mixture and shape them into laddoos.

Dal palak curry

2007-08-08T13:37:00.000-07:00

Dal and Palak..healthy all the way ! I love spinach and this dish always stimulates my appetite.
This is a very simple and a tasty dish that goes well with rice as well as roti.

Ingredients:

1/2 cup toor dal
1 cup spinach - chopped
1/2 cup onion chopped into small pieces
2 pods of garlic
Small piece of Ginger
1 Green Chilli-cut into small pieces
1/2 tablespoon Turmeric Powder
1 tablespoon Oil/ghee
1 pinch of Garam Masala Powder
1/2 tablespoon Cumin Seeds
salt

Clean the toor dal,add the chopped onions,garlic pods,ginger pieces,green chilli and cook everything together in a pressure cooker along with turmeric powder with 1 1/2 cups of water(dal should not be too watery).
Sprinkle little water on the chopped spinach and microwave it for 1 min or alternatively boil spinach in a vessel for 2-3 mins.Do not over cook.Remove the pressure cooker from fire after 3-4 whistles.In a small skillet,heat some oil/ghee and add cumin seeds.Then add the cooked toor dal mix and then the spinach.Mix everything together.
Add garam masala powder,mix and saute for 2-3 mins. Serve with roti/rice.

Bell Pepper/Capsicum Pulav

2007-08-07T14:01:00.000-07:00

Bell pepper! Who doesnt love this vegetable ?! They are high in vitamin C and also supply vitamin A, potassium and some B group vitamins.This rice dish is real yummy ! Try it and I bet you will love it !

Ingredients:

1 cup of Basmati rice , Clean it and soak it in water.
1/2 Bell Pepper(Capsicum) chopped length wise
1/2 tomato chooped length wise
1/2 cup of onion (cut it length wise)
2 pods of garlic
Small piece of Ginger
2 Green Chillies
1/2 tablespoon Turmeric Powder
3 tablespoon Oil/ghee
1 tablespoon Red Chilli Powder
1 pinch of Garam Masala Powder
5-6 Mint Leaves
1/2 tablespoon Cumin Seeds
4-5 Cashwenuts broken into small pieces

In a small skillet, heat some oil.Fry Cumin seeds.Add onions,ginger pieces,green chillies and garlic.Fry till the onions turn transparent.Then add tomatoes.Fry till it becomes tender.
Add Turmeric Powder,Red Chilli powder and mix everything.Add Capsicum now,mix again and saute for 4-5 mins.Then add a pinch of garam masala powder.Mix it.
Add cashewnuts,mint leaves and Saute.Now add the soaked rice (after draining the water).Mix everything together.Cook it in rice cooker with 1 1/2 cups of water.Serve this rice with plain yogurt/raitha/Chips.

Mixed Vegetables Sambhar Bhath

2007-08-06T14:18:00.000-07:00

Hmmm.... Mixed Vegetables Sambhar Bhath ! Yes! Thats what i named this dish. It just took me 20 mins to make this rice dish .
Sometimes,it feels so good to spend less time in the kitchen !

Ingredients:

1 cup of Mixed Vegetables like ( Potatoes,Beans,Green peas,Carrots,Capsicum )
5-6 Small Onions chopped into pieces
1 1/2 cup of Rice
1/2 cup of Toor Dal
1 teaspoon mustard seeds
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
2-3 tablespoon Oil/ghee
1/2 tablespoon of Turmeric Powder
2 tablespoon of Sambhar Powder
Salt

Heat some oil in a pressure cooker.Add mustard seeds and then the cumin seeds.Add small onions.Fry till it turns transparent.
Now add the vegetables,fry it for a minute or two.Then add turmeric powder and sambhar powder.Mix everything together. Saute it for 2 mins.
Now add the rice and toor dal.Add Salt.Mix them.Add 4-5 cups of water.Cover the pressure cooker and remove it from the fire after 5-6 whistles.Serve hot with Papad/Chips !

Urad dal Coconut Chutney

2007-08-02T12:39:00.000-07:00

I love this chutney ! Its just a little diffrent from the normal coconut chutney that we make.
Fried Urad dal gives a nice flavour to this chutney. Try this and let me know !

Ingredients:

2-3 Tablespoon of Urad Dal
3-4 Red Chillies
1 cup of grated cocounut
2-3 Gralic Pods( Optional )
Tamarind - size of a small amla
1-2 tablespoon Oil
Hing/Asafoetida Powder
Salt

Heat some oil in a small saute pan.Add Urad dal , fry it and then add the red chillies.
Once the color changes add garlic pods and grated coconut.Fry everything together for a minute or two.Remove it from fire.
Now add the tamarind to the fried contents.Add some cold water(depends on how watery you want the chutney to be) to it and keep it aside.After 2-3 mins grind everything together along with the required salt and some hing/Asafoetida powder.
You can also add mustard seeds and curry leaves as tadka for the chutney.Enjoy this chutney with Idlis,Dosas,Rava Idlis,Rava Dosas and Pongal !

Tindora curry (Kovaikai/Tondli curry)

2007-08-01T12:54:00.000-07:00

I wanted to make a simple side dish that would go well with rotis,so thought why not Tondli curry.
I often make this curry as a side dish for rasam/sambhar rice..It tastes really good and its so easy to make.
I did not add mustard/urad dal to this curry.Made it just with 1 and half tablespoon of oil !

Ingredients:

200 gms of Tondli- Slice them vertically
1/2 tablespoon Turmeric Powder
1-2 tablespoon Oil
1 tablespoon Coriander powder
1 tablespoon Red chilli powder
Salt

In a small saute pan, heat some oil and add the sliced tondlis.Fry for a minute.Then sprinkle little water and cover it.
After 2-3 mins add turmeric powder,coriander powder and the red chilli powder.mix them properly, saute/fry for a min or two and cover it.
Keep checking whether the tondlis are cooked.Once they are cooked add salt and mix well.Fry it for sometime.The curry is ready ! Serve it with rotis/rice .

Vangi Bhath

2007-07-31T16:46:00.000-07:00

The first time i tasted Vangi Bhath in a fast food restaurant in Bangalore , i had instantly fallen in love with this dish.
A friend of mine told me that its a very common Karnataka recipe made with Eggplant.With an urge to introduce this dish to my husband who loves Eggplant as much as i do , i bought the MTR Vangi Bhath Powder since i was not sure about the recipe of the Vangi Bhath powder.Though,this dish is made widely using Eggplant , one can always add vegetables like Capsicum,Carrot,Potato,Green Peas etc.
I have used Capsicum and Carrot other than Eggplant.This is my first posting and am happy to post a dish that i really like eating anytime-anyday !

Ingredients:

2 cups of cooked rice
3-4 Eggplant (small-medium size)
1 carrot
1 bell pepper
2 and half tablespoon of MTR Vangi Bhath Powder
1/2 tablespoon Turmeric Powder
4-5 tablespoon Oil
1 tablespoon of grated coconut
Tamarind - A little less than half the size of a small lemon ( Soak the Tamarind in warm water for sometime )

For the Seasoning:

1 teaspoon Mustard seeds
1 teaspoon Chana dal
2-3 Red Chillies
5-6 Cashwenuts broken into small pieces

In a small skillet, heat some oil and prepare the seasoning and keep it aside.Heat some oil in a vessel and add the chopped Eggplants,Carrot and the bell pepper.Saute it for a minute and cover the vessel.After 5 minutes remove the lid , add the turmeric powder and saute the vegetables and cover it.Once the Vegetables are cooked add the MTR Vangi Bath powder to the vegetables and mix it well.Then Add the Tamarind water and salt to the vegetables.Saute it and cover the vessel.
After a minute or so, add the seasoning to the vegetables and also add the grated coconut and mix it.Now,add the cooked rice to it and mix well.Serve the Vangi bhath with Potato Chips and Cucumber raita !