Coriander

Paniyaram/ spiced dumplings

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Paniyaran 1

Paniyaram /spiced dumplings originated in Tamil Nadu ,south of India, these are made in a special utensil or cookware called paniyaram chatti which have molds in it like a muffin pan . It is the traditional cookware used for making the paniyaram / spiced dumplings and gives the them round ball like appearance. It is made with rice and black lentil/ urad dal batter . These are basically called appams or spicy dumplings, and are generally served for breakfast or as a snack. These are also known in South India as Kuzhi paniyaram ,appe, guliappa, gulittu, and gundponglu, etc.

The batter is made by soaking the ingredients like rice, black lentils and Fenugreek seeds overnight in water, grinding the contents, then letting the batter ferment. Salt is added after mixing, the batter and  is poured into the cookware pan’s compartments and placed on a low flame. After couple of minutes, the appams / paniyaram / spiced dumplings are flipped over to cook from the top . The Kuzhi paniyaram /spiced dumplings are ready to serve when they turns golden-brown  all around .

Hi friends !masala paniyaram/ spiced dumplings are very easy to make. These can be made with leftover idli batter at home. There are different versions of masala Paniyaram / spiced pancakes. Here is one recipe for you to enjoy!

Preparation time: 5 minutes

Cook time : 10 minutes

Cuisine : Indian , South Indian

Course: Breakfast / healthy snack

 Serves:

Ingredients:

  • 3 cups idli batter
  • 1 medium size onion, finely chopped
  • 1 green chili, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp ginger, finely grated
  • 1/4 tsp asafetida/hing
  • 1/2 tsp red chili powder(optional)
  • 2 tbsp Cilantro / coriander, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp grated coconut
  • 2 tbsp carrot, finely grated
  • 1/4 tspsalt if required

Method:

Step1.

In a mixing bowl take the left over batter , add coconut, onions, green chili, ginger, carrot and salt, mix well.

Step 2.

On a medium flame heat the paniyaram chatti/ dumpling cookware with circular moulds . In each mould add a drop of cooking oil.

Step 3.

Take a spoonful of the batter mix and put in each mould leaving 1/4 of the mould empty.

Step 4.

Reduce the heat to low flame and allow the batter mix to cook for 1-2 minutes.

Step 5.

When the batter is firmed in the moulds, turn each paniyaram/ dumpling, in each mould with the help of a skewer or tip of the knife so that the other side get cooked and becomes golden brown.

Step 6.

Check the paniyaram/ dumplings for even cooking, turn once or twice for uniform cooking. Remove the cooked paniyaram/ dumpling from the cookware mould and serve hot with coconut chutney / sambar or both chutney and sambar.

 Note: Many variations can be tried with the basic recipe.

Nick’s kitchen medical Disclaimer:

  • Nick’s kitchen is for Vegetarians. It sometimes provides education and support to individuals who want to become vegetarian, or move toward a more vegetarian diet.
  • Nick’s kitchen provides some information on vegetarian and vegan diets to the best of their knowledge and abilities.
  • Nick’s kitchen does not claim to be health care professional, nutritionist, nor does it claims to treat any illness through vegan or vegetarian diet.
  • If you have a medical condition,Nick’s kitchen recommend that you consult your health care professionals before changing your diet.
  • Any changes that you make to your diet, and the results of those changes, are your decision and your responsibility.

Black Chickpeas Curry

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Green chikpea curry dark.jpg 
Kaala chana or black chickpeas are cooked in a tasty recipe, kaal chana curry. An Indian spicy recipe of chickpeas cooked in a tasty onion based gravy. Relish with any Indian bread of your choice or rice.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Serves: 6

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup kala channa / black chickpeas, soaked overnight
  • 3 tomatoes, medium size, pureed
  • 1 tsp ginger, finely grated
  • 2onions , medium size, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves, powdered
  • 2 black cardamoms. peeled and seeds powdered
  • 15 cloves of garlic, make a paste
  • 1/2 tsp red chili powder
  • 1 tbsp coriander powder
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 3 tbsp oil
  • 2 tbsp Coriander, finely chopped

Method:

Step 1.

Soak the Kala chana/ black chickpeas overnight.

Step 2.

Now take the soaked Kala chana / black chickpeas, finely chopped onions, four cups of water, salt and keep the pressure cooker on high flame till pressure is formed. After the pressure is formed reduce the heat and cook on low flame for twenty five minutes switch off the stove. When the pressure cooker cools to room temperature, check, kala chanas/ black chickpeas will be soft.  Set aside with the liquid.

Step 3.

Heat two table spoons of oil in a pan ,add pureed tomatoes and sauté on medium-low heat for about five minutes add grated ginger, coriander powder, clove, black cardamom powder, turmeric, chili powder and garlic paste and sauté for 5-6 minutes.

Step 4.

Add the kala chana / black chickpeas with its water into the above fried masala.  Cover and bring to boil, then simmer for at least ten to fifteen minutes.

Step 5.

Serve hot , garnished with finely chopped Dhaniya / Coriander/ Cilantro leaves with any Indian breads of your choice or boiled white rice.
Health benefits of black chickpeas:

Aids in Weight Loss: Inclusion of fiber rich foods in your diet can greatly contribute to weight loss. Black chickpeas are rich in both soluble and insoluble fiber.
Cardiovascular Benefits: Black chickpeas contain a unique combination of antioxidants, anthocyanins, delphindin, cyanidin and petunidin as well as phytonutrients and ALA that maintain the health of blood vessels and prevent oxidative stress, thereby reducing the risk of heart disease. Black chickpeas contain considerable amounts of folate and magnesium. Folate lowers the homocysteine levels thus minimizing the risk of narrowing of arteries by plaque formation, blood clots, heart attacks and strokes.
Lowers Cholesterol: The soluble fiber in black chickpeas binds the bile acids and prevents them from being absorbed by the body, thus reducing cholesterol levels. Daily consumption of around ¾ cup of chickpeas helps to decrease LDL cholesterol and total cholesterol triglycerides. Moreover, the dietary fiber of black chick peas is superior to that found in other foods.
Stabilizes Blood Sugar and Low Glycemic Index (GI): The soluble fiber in black chickpeas controls the absorption and release of blood sugar. Moreover, chickpeas have low glycemic index of 28 to 32 which means that the carbohydrate in them is broken down and digested slowly. This aids in weight loss by controlling appetite. The low GI causes blood sugar to rise moderately and slowly leading to lower blood sugar levels. Consuming ½ a cup of black chickpeas a day is effective in controlling blood sugar in just a week.
Prevention of Diabetes: As already stated, the carbohydrates in legumes such as black chickpeas are digested slowly, thus reducing the blood sugar levels. This contributes to insulin resistance, thereby reducing the risk of getting type-2 diabetes.
Great Source of Iron: Being a rich source of iron, black chickpeas can prevent anemia and boost your energy levels.
Good Source of Protein for Vegetarians: Black chickpeas are an alternative source of protein for vegetarians as these legumes in combination with whole grain or whole wheat protein, provide significant amounts of protein which are comparable to that of meat and dairy as well as devoid of high calories or saturated fats.
Beneficial for Women: The phytonutrients called saponins act as antioxidants to reduce the risk of breast cancer, prevent osteoporosis.
Treatment of Digestive Disorders: Black chickpeas are rich in dietary fiber, 2/3rd of which comprises of insoluble fiber which is vital for maintaining the health of digestive tract. Reduces the risk of cancer, particularly colon cancer.
Skin Benefits of Black Chickpeas: Black chickpeas are rich in folates, dietary fiber, protein, carbohydrates, copper, iron and phosphorus and devoid of sodium and cholesterol. They can be beneficial to your skin in the many ways.
Promotes Hair Growth: Black chickpeas contain vitamin B6 and zinc. Both these minerals play an important role in building up the protein in hair, thereby strengthening your hair follicles and promoting hair growth.
Combats Hair Loss: The combination of vitamin A and zinc in black chickpeas are vital for hair health and deficiency of any one of these in the diet can cause dandruff and hair loss.
Treatment of Dandruff: In order to get rid of dandruff, you can mix 4 tablespoons of black chickpea flour in around 250 ml water and massage your hair with it for a couple of minutes before washing.
Prevents Graying of Hair: Black chickpeas are loaded with protein and manganese. Manganese prevents your hair from changing pigmentation i.e. graying of hair.

Ref. http://www.stylecraze.com/articles/benefits-of-black-chickpeas-for-skin-hair-and-health/

Nick’s kitchen medical Disclaimer:

  • Nick’s kitchen is for Vegetarians. It sometimes provides education and support to individuals who want to become vegetarian, or move toward a more vegetarian diet.
  • Nick’s kitchen provides some information on vegetarian and vegan diets to the best of their knowledge and abilities.
  • Nick’s kitchen does not claim to be health care professional, nutritionist, nor does it claims to treat any illness through vegan or vegetarian diet.
  • If you have a medical condition,Nick’s kitchen recommend that you consult your health care professionals before changing your diet.
  • Any changes that you make to your diet, and the results of those changes, are your decision and your responsibility.

Aloo Gobhi

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Aloo Gobhi copy

There are various versions of Aloo gobhi in the North Indian cuisin.This is my recipe for making aloo gobhi and we all love it at home.

Prep time: 15minutes  

Cook time: 30minutes

To be served in: 45minutes

Serves: 6

Ingredients:

  • 1 Medium cauliflower, cut into small florets
  • 2 potatoes medium size, washed, peeled, halved, and cubed
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, finely grated
  • 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh coriander
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds, roasted, powdered
  • ½ tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tbsp coriander powder
  • 1 tsp salt or / Salt to taste
  • 1/4 tsp Asafetida, Heeng
  • ½ tsp red chili powder
  • 3 tbsp Olive oil orany other cooking oil

Method:

Step 1.

Heat oil in a kadhai / wok / heavy bottom pan. Add asafetida fry for few seconds till turns pink.

Step 2.

Add the potatoes. Fry for a few minutes now add the cauliflower florets. Add salt, turmeric powder, chili powder , cumin powder and coriander powder.

Step 3.

Reduce the heat to low flame and cook sabji covered . Cook about 15 minutes, stirring every few minutes, till potatoes and cauliflower are quite tender, but not mushy.

Step 4.

Garnish with finely chopped coriander leaves and serve hot with any Indian bread of your choice!

Stuffed Tomatoes

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Stuffed Tomatoes

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Servings: 4

Preparation Time: 25-30 minutes
Category: Veg

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium size Green capsicum
  • 1 Medium size onion, finely chopped
  • 8 Tomatoes, medium size
  • 200 gms Cottage cheese/ Paneer
  • 2 Green Chillies
  • 1 tbsp Olive oil/any cooking oil
  • 2 tbsp coriander/cilantro, finely chopped
  • 1/2 tsp Cumin seed
  • 1 tsp ginger, finely grated
  • 1/4 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1/4 tsp Gram masala
  • 15 Almonds, powdered
  • 1/2 tsp Salt or / salt to taste

Method:

Step 1.

Grate paneer/ Cottage cheese. Finely chop coriander leaves, green chilies, capsicum and keep aside.

Step 2.

To make tomato cups, cut off a thin slice from the top of each tomato and remove the pulp. Cut off a thin slice from the bottom of the tomatoes so that they can stand upright. Keep aside.

Step 3.

Heat oil in a Kadahi / wok/ or non-stick pan add cumin seeds, when cumin starts spluttering, add onions, sauté the onions till light golden in colour. Add ginger, green chilies and capsicum to the pan and sauté. Add turmeric powder, garam masala powder and coriander leaves and mix.

Step 4.

Add cottage cheese ,salt, almond powder and mix everything well. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.

Step 5.

Take the tomato cups, stuff them with the paneer/ cottage cheese mixture and arrange them in a microwave safe bowl.

Step 6.

Grill in a microwave for 4 minutes. Serve hot.

 

 

 

Mint- Coriander Chutney

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Coriander chutney NG

Hi friends! This combination of herbs, Mint-coriander is a basic and easy-to-make chutney that is perfect for using as a dipping sauce with pakoras, cutlets and many other snacks and sandwiches.

Total Time: 10 minutes

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 0 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup (tightly packed)fresh Dhaniya /coriander/ Cilantro
  • 1/2 cup (tightly packed) fresh mint leaves
  • 2 -3 green chilies
  • 1/4 tsp black salt
  • 1/2 tsp salt/or salt to taste
  • 1/2 tsp sugar
  • 1 tsp fresh lemon juice

Directions:

Step 1.

Wash well Dhaniya /coriander/ Cilantro and Mint / Pudina leaves ,and finely chop them. Keep aside.

Step 2.

Wash, trim ends, remove stems and chop the green chilies.

Step 3.

Put chopped coriander and mint leaves along with the green chilies in a grinder. Add 1/4 cup water in the grinder and process until you have an even paste.

Step 3.

Remove from grinder into a serving bowl. Add salt and sugar. Stir in lemon juice.

Step 4.

Serve with, pakoras, cutlets, kebabs, etc.

Note: It makes an excellent sandwich spread with processed cheese slices etc.

Health Benefits of Mint, Coriander:

Coriander/dhania

The aroma and flavour of coriander or dhania help it gain a very useful place in the kitchen. It is known to help with anaemia as it is a rich source of iron and a strong immunity enhancer. Being rich in various vitamins and minerals, it is a great detoxifying agent and has dermatological benefits too. Fresh coriander leaves can be used for garnishing or coriander seeds can be used for cooking.

Mint /pudina

Mint or pudina is a classic herb used in a variety of cuisines. It’s refreshing aroma and flavor make it a very popular addition to juices and smoothies. It is used to cure digestive ailments and maintain oral health. These small leaves are a powerhouse of vitamin, dietary fiber and iron. It also keeps your skin radiant and hair healthy. Consumption of mint extracts like in tea is known to provide relief from headaches and migraine attacks.

Ref. http://www.thehealthsite.com/fitness/health-benefits-of-herbs-like-mint-coriander-curry-leaves-basil-and-more/

Nick’s kitchen medical Disclaimer:

  • Nick’s kitchen is for Vegetarians. It sometimes provides education and support to individuals who want to become vegetarian, or move toward a more vegetarian diet.
  • Nick’s kitchen provides some information on vegetarian and vegan diets to the best of their knowledge and abilities.
  • Nick’s kitchen does not claim to be health care professional, nutritionist, nor does it claims to treat any illness through vegan or vegetarian diet.
  • If you have a medical condition,Nick’s kitchen recommend that you consult your health care professionals before changing your diet.
  • Any changes that you make to your diet, and the results of those changes, are your decision and your responsibility.

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Coriander-Garlic Chutney

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Coriander chutney

Coriander garlic chutney

Hi friends! A wonderful combination of coriander and pungent garlic, made into a chutney . The tamarind adds a pleasant tang to the Coriander Garlic Chutney, served as a dip or bread spread.

Total time: 10 minutes

Recipe type: sides

Making time: 2 minutes

Cuisine: North Indian

Serves: 4-6

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup tightly packed, finely chopped coriander leaves/dhania
  • 1 medium size onion, finely chopped
  • 2 green chilis, chopped
  • 6 cloves of fresh garlic, chopped
  • 1 small marble size tamarind / Imali, soaked in 1/4 cup of water
  • 1 level tsp salt / or as taste
  • 1/4 cup water

Method:

Step 1.

Take coriander, wash it very well and chop it, and keep aside.

Step 2.

Peel, wash and chop the onion, green chilis and garlic cloves. Put all these ingredients along with salt and 1/4 cup of water in a grinder.

Step 3.

Take the soaked tamarind in microwave safe bowl with the water, and heat it for a minute. Cool it and extract the pulp and add it to the other ingredients in the grinder.

Step 4.

Grind all the ingredients with water till smooth. Refrigerate till required.

Note:  There are many variations of coriander chutney. This versions of coriander chutneys is my favorite. It goes very well with Pakoras, Stuffed parothas or other many snacks.It can be stored for 8-10 days in the refrigerator.

Nutritional Value of Coriander:

A powerful herb, has many health benefits, Coriander commonly known as Cilantro or Dhania.It is used globally in food preparations. Coriander is packed with potential health benefits. It has eleven components of essential oils, six types of acids (including ascorbic acid, better known as vitamin-C), minerals and vitamins, each having a number of beneficial properties.It is rich in micro nutrients and nutritional elements. It contains dietary fiber, vitamins and minerals like calcium, magnesium, sodium and potassium. Apart from being used in cooking, coriander leaves and seeds are known to help strengthen the stomach, reduce fever and lower cholesterol levels.

Nutritional Value of Garlic:

1.The Blood Purifier-Garlic will help to cleanse your system and flush out toxins.

2. Cold and Flu-Garlic is going to provide you relief from that stubborn cold and flu . Garlic can be added to hot stews, broths and soups to fight sinusitis, cold and flu. And garlic is best had in its raw state.
3. Prevention of Heart Disease-Consuming garlic on a daily basis (in food or raw) helps to lower cholesterol levels because of the anti-oxidant properties of Allicin.

4. Anti-bacterial and Anti-parasitic-Garlic has been used as an antibiotic to treat bacterial, fungal and parasitic infections for the last 7,000 years. Studies suggest diluted garlic extract helps children with tapeworm infections.

5. Cancer Prevention-Several studies have indicated an association between daily consumption of garlic and prevention of stomach and colorectal cancers. It is said to strengthen the immunity of the body against cancer.

6. For Skin and Hair-The invigorating properties of garlic protect the skin from the effect of free radicals and slow down the depletion of collagen which leads to loss of elasticity in aging skin. Applied topically, garlic does wonders to skin infected with fungal infections and  provides relief from skin ailments like eczema. It is also an effective remedy for fungal infections like athlete’s foot and ringworms.
7. Splinters-Place a piece of cut garlic over the splinter cut and cover with a bandage- and voila! Bye-bye splinter.

Caution

  • Asthma patients should not consume garlic as it may have side-effects.
  • Garlic should be avoided before surgeries or medical operations.
  • Do not consume more than 2-3 garlic cloves in a day without consulting a doctor.

Ref. http://food.ndtv.com/food-drinks/powerhouse-of-medicine-and-flavour-surprising-health-benefits-of-garlic-1200468

Nick’s kitchen medical Disclaimer:

  • Nick’s kitchen is for Vegetarians. It sometimes provides education and support to individuals who want to become vegetarian, or move toward a more vegetarian diet.
  • Nick’s kitchen provides some information on vegetarian and vegan diets to the best of their knowledge and abilities.
  • Nick’s kitchen does not claim to be health care professional, nutritionist, nor does it claims to treat any illness through vegan or vegetarian diet.
  • If you have a medical condition,Nick’s kitchen recommend that you consult your health care professionals before changing your diet.
  • Any changes that you make to your diet, and the results of those changes, are your decision and your responsibility.

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