Indian cuisine

Paneer Parathas

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Paneer paratha (2)

Paneer / Cottage cheese stuffed Parathas

Hi friends! Paneer Paratha is one of the many popular paratha varieties . Its an all time favorite paratha at home .

Preparation Time : 15-20 minutes

Cooking time : 5-10 minutes

Servings : 6

Main Ingredients:Whole wheat flour / atta, 250 gms paneer/ cottage cheese

Cuisine:North Indian / Punjabi

Course:Breakfast , Breads

Level Of Cooking:Medium

Ingredients:

  • 250 gms paneer /fresh cottage cheese
  • 3 cups Whole wheat flour / atta
  • 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh coriander leaves
  • Green chilli 2 (finely chopped)
  • Ginger 1/2 inch piece (finely grated)
  • 1 tsp roasted and powdered geera seeds / cumin seed
  • 1 tsp or Salt to taste
  • 2 tbsps pure ghee / olive oil for shallow frying
  • Red chilli 1/4 teaspoon

Method:

Step 1

Take atta / Whole wheat flour in a bowl, mix water , little at a time and knead a dough. Add enough water to make a firm dough (not too soft not too hard). Keep aside, covered for ten to fifteen minutes.

Step 2

Grate paneer in a bowl, add finely chop coriander leaves , ginger, green chilies, cumin powder, and salt .

Step 3

Divide dough in medium-sized balls, roll out each ball into a medium thick chapatti using dry flour for dusting. Put the paneer mixture in the middle of the rolled chapatti and close from all sides. press on your palm.

Step 4

Sprinkle a little flour on top, and roll out the stuffed dough gently, taking care not to break it. Heat a tawa / Griddle and cook the paratha on both sides.

Step 5

Shallow fry both sides to golden, using a little ghee. Serve hot with a blob of butter.

Step 6

Serve hot with a bowl of curd / yogurt and chili pickle/ fresh coriander chutney for best results!

Health benefits of Cottage cheese / paneer :

Cottage cheese provides many health benefits, including a high protein content, as well as significant calcium, phosphorus, and potassium contents, and it can be used for weight management.

Reduced Risk of Breast Cancer: The calcium and vitamin D found in dairy products, especially in cottage cheese, reduces the risk of breast cancer.

Rich in Protein: One of the biggest benefits of cottage cheese is the high amount of casein protein found in it. It is believed that cow’s milk contains the highest amount of casein protein among various milks. The amount of protein contained in cottage cheese is ideal for vegetarians in supplying them with the required amount of daily protein. Cottage cheese does not require any amount of cooking and it can be consumed directly.

Best Foods for Pregnant Women: Cottage cheese is recommended for pregnant women along with athletes due to various essential nutrients found in it.

Rich Source of B-Complex Vitamins: B-complex vitamins found in cottage cheese are helpful in various metabolic activities in our bodies. Some of them include vitamin B12, riboflavin, pantothenic acid, thiamin, niacin, and folate.

-Vitamin B12 is needed for proper brain functioning and helps in absorbing iron.

-Riboflavin helps in converting carbohydrates into energy.

-Pantothenic Acid acts as a synthesizer that helps in forming proteins, fats, carbohydrates, and amino acids in our body.

-Thiamin helps in converting sugars into energy in the pyruvate dehydrogenase system.

-Niacin, on the other hand plays an important role in digestion, energy production, and cholesterol reduction.

-Folate helps in fetal development in pregnant women, helps in producing red blood cells and keeps the heart healthy.

Strengthens Bones: Calcium is one of the major elements associated with milk and their products. Some of the benefits of calcium-rich foods include bone strengthening and weight loss.

Heart-Friendly and Maintains Blood Sugar Levels: Cottage cheese is a good source of magnesium. In the human body, most of the magnesium is concentrated in our bones. Magnesium also acts as a catalyst, promotes biochemical reactions, activates various enzymes in the body, maintains muscle and nerve functioning, and supports the immune system. It helps in maintaining blood sugar levels and prevents heart attacks, constipation, psychiatric disorders, migraine, and collagen.

Prevents Strokes and Controls Anxiety: Apart from other nutrients, cottage cheese contains potassium. Potassium acts as a fluid-balancing element in the body and is an important component in neural activities of the muscle and brain. It also relieves muscle cramps. Intake of potassium on a regular basis prevents the risk of getting brain stroke, since it lowers blood pressure and the contraction of vessels. It is also helpful in decreasing stress levels and anxiety. Potassium, along with sodium, act as electrolytes, but potassium does not have the side effects of sodium such as increased blood pressure and cardiovascular stress.

Improves Biological Functions: Zinc found in cottage cheese is about 4% of the daily recommended value.  In the human body, it is found in the brain, muscles, bones, kidneys, liver, prostate, and eyes. It helps in the metabolism of DNA and RNA.  Zinc is one of the trace elements whose presence in our body helps in improving the immune system, digestion, diabetes control, fights stress and anxiety, cures night blindness, improves ocular health, prevents appetite loss, prevents prostate disorder, fights various infections and also acts as an antioxidant.

Improves Digestion: Cottage cheese contains phosphorous, which plays a major role in the formation of DNA and RNA. It is a major component in forming bones along with calcium. Phosphates also help in digestion, excretion, and in the production and extraction of energy in the cells.

Antioxidant Properties: Selenium is a trace element found in cottage cheese. It is required in very small quantities, not more than 50 mcg to 70 mcg in adults. Selenium is useful as an antioxidant that protects cells and DNA from damage. It is also believed that an optimum intake of selenium-rich foods reduces the risk of prostate cancer. New study suggests that a diet rich in dairy products may slightly extend lives of people diagnosed with colon cancer.

Quick Serving Tips

Salad– Add chopped/grated cottage cheese to salads such as green salads and tuna salads.

Omelet– Add chopped cottage cheese and vegetables to the egg mixture for making a delicious omelet.

Curries/Stew– Cottage cheese can be used for making stew/curries, along with meat and vegetables.

Ref.https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/animal-product/health-benefits-of-cottage-cheese.html

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.

 

 

Gobi Paratha

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Gobi Paratha Gobi stuffed Paratha + gobi filling

Gobi/ Cauliflower stuffed paratha 

Hi friends! Gobi ka paratha, is an absolute winner of the most popular paratha in North India. Theparathas are stuffed with spicy grated cauliflower.

 Preparation Time : 30-35 minutes

Cooking time : 10-15 minutes

Servings : 6

Ingredients :

  • 1 medium size cauliflower
  • 3 cups whole wheat flour/ atta
  • 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh coriander leaves
  • 2 Green chilli (finely chopped)
  • 1 inch piece Ginger  (finely grated)
  • 1/4 tsp Red chilli powder
  • 1 tsp roasted and powdered geera seeds / cumin seed
  • 1/2 tsp carom seeds / ajwain
  • 1 tsp salt or Salt to taste
  • 2-3 tbsps pure ghee / olive oil for shallow frying

Method :

Step 1

Take atta / whole wheat flour in a bowl mix water , little at a time. Add enough water to make a firm dough (not too soft not too hard). Keep aside, covered for ten to fifteen minutes.

Step 2

Wash and finely grate cauliflower in a bowl.

Step 3

Add finely chop coriander leaves , ginger, green chilies, cumin powder,carom seeds / ajwain  and salt in to the grated cauliflower.

Step 4

Divide the dough in medium-sized balls, roll out each ball into a medium thick chapatti using dry flour for dusting. Place a spoonful of the cauliflower mixture in the center and bring the edges together to seal and form into a round shape once again. Press on your palm.

Step 5

Sprinkle a little flour on top, and roll the stuffed dough gently, taking care not to break it. Heat a tawa /griddle/ non-stick tawa, place the rolled paratha on the heated tawa.

Step 6

Shallow fry both sides on medium heat with little pure ghee/olive oil till both sides are evenly cooked and golden. Serve hot with a blob of butter.

Note: A bowl of curd / yogurt and chili pickle/ fresh coriander chutney is  a good accompaniment.

Health Benefits of Cauliflower:

Because of its beneficial effects on numerous aspects of health, cauliflower can easily be described as a super food. Ten of its most impressive benefits follow:

1. Fight Cancer

Cauliflower contains sulforaphane, a sulfur compound that has also been shown to kill cancer stem cells, thereby slowing tumor growth. Some researchers believe eliminating cancer stem cells may be key to controlling cancer.

2. Boost Heart Health

Sulforaphane in cauliflower and other cruciferous vegetables has been found to significantly improve blood pressure and kidney function.Scientists believe sulforaphane’s benefits are related to improved DNA methylation, which is crucial for normal cellular function and proper gene expression, especially in the easily damaged inner lining of the arteries known as the endothelium.

3. It’s Anti-Inflammatory

You need some level of inflammation in your body to stay healthy. Cauliflower contains a wealth of anti-inflammatory nutrients to help keep inflammation in check, including indole-3-carbinol or I3C, an anti-inflammatory compound that may operate at the genetic level to help prevent the inflammatory responses at its foundational level.

4. It’s Rich in Vitamins and Minerals

Eating cauliflower regularly is a simple way to get these much-needed nutrients into your body. It’s also a good source of vitamin K, protein, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, magnesium, phosphorus, fiber, vitamin B6, folate, pantothenic acid, potassium, and manganese.

5. Boost Your Brain Health

Cauliflower is a good source of choline, a B vitamin known for its role in brain development.

6. Detoxification Support

Cauliflower helps your body’s ability to detoxify in multiple ways. It contains antioxidants that support Phase 1 detoxification along with sulfur-containing nutrients important for Phase 2 detox activities. The glucosinolates in cauliflower also activate detoxification enzymes.

7. Digestive Benefits

Cauliflower is an important source of dietary fiber for digestive health. But that’s not all. According to the World’s Healthiest Foods

8. Antioxidants and Phytonutrients Galore

Eating cauliflower is like winning the antioxidant and phytonutrient lottery. It’s packed with vitamin C, beta-carotene, kaempferol, quercetin, rutin, cinnamic acid, and much more. Antioxidants are nature’s way of providing your cells with adequate defense against attack by reactive oxygen species (ROS).

Ref.http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2014/02/22/cauliflower-health-benefits.aspx

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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Methi Aloo Parathas

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Methi Aloo Paratha  Methi Fenugreek-LeavesFresh fenugreek leaves and potato parathas / Methi Aloo Paratha

Hi friends!One of the healthy ways to add greens to your diet is eating methi aloo paratha. This is a good course to have for breakfast, lunch or dinner.

Preparation Time : 30-35 minutes

Cooking time : 10-15 minutes

Servings : 5 -6

Main Ingredients: Whole wheat flour/ atta, 6 medium size boiled potatoes, fresh Methi / fenugreek leaves

Cuisine: North Indian / Punjabi

Course : Breakfast, Breads

Level Of Cooking: Medium

Ingredients:

  • 3 Potatoes medium (pressure cooked for3-4 minutes)
  • 2 cups of fresh methi /fenugreek leaves ,finely chopped
  • 3 cups wheat flour / atta
  • 2 Green chilli  (finely chopped, optional)
  • 1/2 tsp red chilli powder
  • 1/2 tsp ajwain (carom seeds)
  • 1 tsp Salt or / salt to taste
  • 2-3 tbsps pure ghee / olive oil for shallow frying

Method:

Step 1.

Wash and evenly mash the potatoes . Finely chop methi leaves. Keep aside.

Step 2.

Mix mashed potatoes, finely chopped methi leaves, green chilies, ajwain, chili powder and salt combine all the ingredients in a deep bowl, add atta / whole wheat flour and knead into a semi-soft dough using enough water (little at a time).

Step 3.

Divide the dough into 6 equal portions. Roll each portion into a 3″diameter circle, dusting it with a little wheat flour for rolling, brush with melted ghee/ oil, fold into half to form a semi- circle. Brush the semi-circle with melted ghee and fold both ends again to form a square. Roll out into 5″ square paratha using a little wheat flour for rolling.

Step 4

Heat a non-stick tawa (griddle) and Shallow fry both sides each paratha, using a little ghee/ oil, till golden brown spots appear on both the sides. Repeat steps 3 to 4 to make 5 more parathas.

 Step 5.

Serve hot with a blob of butter. A bowl of curd / yogurt and chili pickle is good accompaniment.

Fenugreek leaves health benefits:

The word “fenugreek” has its origin in the Latin language, and refers to ‘Greek hay’. It is commonly seen in the Mediterranean areas of Southern Europe.For ages, it has been grown in this region, together with North Africa and India. Inhabitants of these regions use both the leaves and seeds as a spice for their dishes. The fenugreek herb is basically in the form of seeds and works as an effective nutritional supplement. Due to the numerous health benefits provided by this herb, they’ve been used by herb lovers for ages.

1. Poor liver function:

This leaf is highly beneficial for treating poor liver function and dyspepsia. It is also helpful in treating gastric problems and other intestinal issues. It is also used for curing dysentery and diarrhea. These leaves are also used in the powdered form for treating GI issues, as well as allergies or congestion of the upper respiratory zone.

2.Cholesterol:

Fenugreek leaf has an incredibly strong effect on blood lipid levels; it may also prove helpful in lowering atherosclerosis. Patients suffering from lipid fluctuations benefit hugely from this herb; the reason behind this is its capacity to cut down cholesterol levels, LDL and triglycerides while pulling up their HDL levels. Place some of these leaves in water and leave it overnight; next morning, strain the water and consume it.

3. Diabetes:

The healing properties of fenugreek are quite similar to cinnamon; due to its anti-diabetic elements, this spice is capable of controlling glucose metabolism. It also helps in preventing and treating of Type II diabetes.This herb balances blood glucose homeostasis and reduces cellular insulin resistance. According to medical researchers, fenugreek lowers blood sugar levels of Type II diabetics by a huge percentage.

4. Heart problems and blood lipids:

This herb, fenugreek, has a strong balancing effect on blood lipid levels and lowers the hazards of atherosclerosis. In case of diabetes, it has substantiated an outstanding ability to reduce LDL levels, triglycerides and cholesterol. One more important characteristic of this spice is its power to reduce platelet creation, which, in turn, lowers the chances of sudden blood clotting in your heart; the common consequences being strokes and massive heart attacks. Like most of the other spices, fenugreek too contains strong antioxidants. It is also beneficial in protecting other internally generated antioxidants from any kind of damage. It also shields the body against a variety of other chronic diseases.Fenugreek provides iron as nutrient to body.

5. Skin benefits, reduces blemishes:

This herb is highly beneficial in reducing skin marks and blemishes. If there are some stubborn marks or spots on your face, consider using something natural like fenugreek leaves. Mix a spoon of fenugreek seed powder with a few drops of water; blend it continuously till it’s smooth in texture. Next, apply this paste on your face and leave it for fifteen minutes. Next, swipe it off with a wet cotton ball.

6. Hair benefits, for long and lustrous hair:

For long and lustrous hair, apply a thick fenugreek paste on your scalp and keep it for forty minutes. Next, rinse it off with cold water. You can repeat this practice once or twice a week. Considering its countless natural benefits, it works as an excellent alternative to damaging and unsafe chemical found in local shampoos.

Ref. http://www.stylecraze.com/articles/benefits-of-fenugreek-leaves-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.

 

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Tinda Aloo Masaledar

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image

Ingredients

  • 200 gms Tindas washed and cut into thick slices
  • 2 small potatoes cut into thick slices
  • 1 medium sized onion finely chopped
  • 1 tomato finely chopped
  • 1/2 tsp ginger paste
  • 1/2 tsp garlic paste
  • 1/2 tsp Jeera
  • 1/4 tsp red chilli powder
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • 1/2 tsp garam masalas
  • 2/3 tsp Salt / or salt to taste
  • 1/2 a cup of water

Few Coriander leaves for garnishing

Method:

  1. Heat oil in a thick bottom pan, add jeera seeds, when the jeera seeds start spluttering , add the onion , saute till they are golden .
  2. Add ginger-garlic paste , fry for a few minutes add all the spices and fry for a few seconds .
  3. Add the chopped tomatoes and let it cook till they are well cooked & soft
  4. Now add the tindas, potato pieces, a little water and cover the pan with a lid .
  5. Cook on slow fire till they are soft.
  6. Garnish with coriander leaves and serve hot with chapattis, rice etc.What is Tinda:The tinda and plural called tinday (in Urdu ٹنڈه or ٹنڈے), also called Indian round gourd or apple gourd or Indian Baby Pumpkin, is a squash-like cucurbit grown for its immature fruit, a vegetable especially popular in South Asia. It is the only member of the genus Praecitrullus. “tinda” is also called “tindsi” in rajasthan. In Marathi, it is called Dhemase ढेमसे. In Sindhi language, it is called Meha ميها.

Rajma Curry

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Rajma NG 1Rajma curry/ Red kidney beans curry

It is a high protein, nutritious Rajma/red kidney beans preparation. Tastes very good with boiled / steamed rice.

Preparation Time : Soaking over night +15-20 minutes

Cooking time :30- 40  minutes

Servings : 5-6

Main Ingredients: Rajma /Red kidney beans, tomatoes and Onions

Cuisine: North Indian , Punjabi

Course: Main,Dals and currys

Level Of Cooking: Medium

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup Rajma/red kidney beans (soaked overnight)
  • 2 medium Onions,finely chopped
  • 4 medium size Tomatoes,cut and pureed
  • 1 tablespoon Coriander powder
  • 1tsp Red chilli powder
  • 1/2 tsp Turmeric powder
  • 1/2 tsp Cumin seeds, roasted and powdered
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 3 cloves, powdered
  • 2 Black cardamom seeds powdered
  • 1/4 tsp cinnamon powder or / 1″ stick of cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp Garam masala powder
  • 11/2 level tsp Salt or / salt to taste
  • 2 Bay leaves
  • 1 inch piece Ginger ,grated
  • 15 Garlic cloves,finely crushed
  • 3 tablespoons Olive oil
  • 2 tbsp fresh coriander leaves, finely chopped, for garnishing

Method:

Step 1.

On a full flame place the pressure cooker on the stove with Rajma/red kidney beans and three glasses of water, chopped onions and salt. The moment pressure is formed, reduce to low flame, cook for twenty five minutes. Switch off the stove, let the pressure cooker cool to room temperature. Open the lid and check, Rajma/red kidney beans will be totally cooked and soft.

Step 2.

Heat oil in a deep pan and put cumin seeds, when it starts to crackle,add bay leaves, powdered cloves,cinnamon and black cardamom seeds, saute for a few seconds, add coriander powder, red chilli powder and turmeric powder. Add crushed garlic cloves, grated ginger, tomato puree and saute for a few minutes more. Keep stirring on slow flame and continue to cook till the oil surfaces on the masala.

Step 3.

Add cooked Rajma/red kidney beans to the masala and mix. Adjust salt and add garam masala powder. Lower the heat and simmer for about fifteen to twenty minutes on low heat.

Step 4.

Garnish with finely chopped coriander leaves.Serve hot with boiled/ steamed rice, pulaos ,biryanis or with any Indian bread of your choice.

Health benefits of Rajma/red kidney beans:

 Kidney beans, also known as rajma, is a well known pulse that is extensively used all over the world in the preparation of variety of dishes, particularly in rice, curries, salads and toppings. Mexican foods that are popular all over the Globe. And kidney beans is the main component that is used in preparing the dishes. Tacos, Mexican chaat and Mexican Bean Hotpot are few famous dishes that are prepared using kidney beans or rajma. However, many people dread eating kidney beans as it is considered to be fattening or is gassy. However, there are many health benefits of kidney beans that we need to know. The health benefits of kidney beans are not just for a part of the body but improves the overall health of our body. The benefits of kidney beans definitely makes us include this pulse in our daily diet.
Health Benefits Of Rajma/red kidney beans:
Provides Energy: Rajma/red kidney beans boosts our energy as it is high in iron content. It contains high amount of iron which is the main source that is required for increasing body metabolism and energy. It also helps in the circulation of oxygen throughout the body.
Calorie count: The amount of calorie found in Rajma/red kidney beans is moderate and can be eaten by all the age group.
Adding kidney beans to a salad or low calorie soup during lunch will be a good choice. At the same time, for those who want to maintain a consistent weight can have rajma or kidney beans.
Maintains Blood Sugar: Rajma is a well known fiber rich pulse. These fibers in rajma decreases the metabolism rate of the carbohydrate content in the beans.
Good For Brain: This pulse offers outstanding benefits for brain. It contains high amount of vitamin K which provides essential nutrition for both brain and nervous system.
Kidney beans are also a good source of vitamin B, which is essential for brain cells. It nourishes the brain nerves and cells which prevents age related disease like Alzheimer’s.
Improves bowel movements: The fiber present in kidney beans helps in maintaining healthy bowel movements. If it is eaten in the right quantity, it helps in cleansing the digestive tract. Regular bowel movements are associated with a lower risk of colon cancer.
Cardiovascular Benefits: High magnesium content and fiber in kidney beans is responsible for lowering bad cholesterol levels. High magnesium level found in kidney beans helps the body fight diseases associated with the risk of stroke, heart attack, and peripheral vascular disease. It also helps in having a healthy cardiovascular system.
These are some of the major health benefits of kidney beans. Add them in your daily diet as it keeps you healthy in the long run.

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.

Chole/Chickpeas curry

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imageChole/ Chick peas curry

Main Name: Chickpea
Biological Name: Cicer arietinum
Hindi Name: Chana, Kabuli Chana

Names in other Indian languages: Kothu kadalai (Tamil), Kadala (Malayalam), Sanagalu (Telugu), Chana (Gujarati), Chola (Bengali), Harbara (Marathi), Buta (Oriya), Chole (Punjabi), Chana sabut (Urdu)

A famous Punjabi / North Indian preparation of chick peas can be enjoyed with any Indian bread of your choice.

Preparation Time : Over night soaking

Cooking time : 20-25 minutes (after the full pressure, on low flame 20-25 minutes)

Servings : 4- 6

Cuisine: Indian / North Indian /Punjabi

Course:Main

Level Of Cooking: Medium

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup Chickpeas (kabuli chana)
  • 2-3 tbsp Olive oil
  • 2 big size onions (cut into quarter pieces)
  • 1 tsp Carom seeds/ Ajwain
  • 1 1/2 tbsp Coriander powder
  • 1 tbsp Cumin powder  (Cumin roasted and powdered)
  • 1 tsp Red chilli powder
  • 1 level tsp Salt  or / to taste
  • 1 tsp Garam masala powder
  • 1 tbsp Tamarind pulp or/ Dry mango/ or amchur powder 1 tablespoon / or seeded tamarind small marble size soaked and pulp taken out
  • 1 green chili ,slit 1 (optional)
  • 2 inch Ginger piece,cut into thin strips or grated

Method:

Step 1.

Wash chanas well  and Soak for at least seven-eight  hours  in  500 ml of water . Retaining the same water,add salt to the chana and cook in a pressure cooker till done ( 20-25 minutes after the pressure is formed in the pressure cooker).

Step 2.

Put the quartered onions in the pressure cooker add 1/4 cup of water. Pressure cook till the pressure is formed, switch off the heat. Cool and grind into a paste.

Step 3.

Heat the oil in a deep pan, put ajwain, when it splutters, add onion paste . Sauté for 3-4 minutes and add coriander powder, cumin powder and red chilli powder,tamarind paste (or dry mango powder) Sauté again. Add boiled chanas, cook on low flame for 10-15 minutes .

Step 4.

Add garam masala powder, mix well, cook for few minutes more.

Step 5.

Garnish with coriander leaves, green chillies, tomato slices , fried potato pieces and finely cut ginger strips and serve hot with puri, bhatures etc.

Note: Bundi raita compliments chole.

Health Benefits of Chickpeas:
  • Rich in both types of fiber, soluble and insoluble, chickpeas escort the trapped bile acids out of the body and lower cholesterol levels, thereby contributing to cardiovascular health.
  • The insoluble fiber content in chickpeas helps in preventing digestive disorders, like irritable bowel syndrome and diverticulosis; hence, promoting positive digestive health.
  • With folate and magnesium in high amounts, chickpeas protect the body from cardiovascular diseases. Folate reduces the levels of the amino acid, homocysteine which causes damage to the lining of arteries and increases the risk of blood vessel blockages.
  • With a rich supply of soluble fiber, chickpeas help in balancing blood sugar levels; thus, providing support to diabetic patients suffering from highs and lows of blood sugar levels.
  • The high fiber content in chickpeas induces feelings of satiety, thereby cutting down the intake of unwanted calories and keeping your appetite under control.
  • An excellent source of the trace mineral manganese, chickpea boosts production of energy and defends against several diseases.
  • Molybdenum is a mineral and an antioxidant important for stimulating the body’s mechanism for reducing symptoms of energy, helping with impotency in men, fighting against tooth decay and irritability, and preventing anemia. Molybdenum is found in chickpeas in abundance.
  • Chickpeas contain phytochemicals called saponins which are highly beneficial for the health of women. They act as antioxidants, providing protection against osteoporosis, lowering the risk of breast cancer, and minimizing hot flushes in post menopausal women.
  • Chickpeas help in meeting your daily iron requirements.  The deficiency of which reduces the delivery of oxygen throughout the body, resulting in feelings of weakness and tiredness, difficulties in concentration, and increasing the risk of infections.
  • A good source of iron, chickpeas also help with the proper functioning of the human system and preventing conditions, like anemia, weakness, hair loss, headaches, and other critical health concerns.
  • Regular consumption of folate is important for the production and maintenance of new cells, particularly during periods of rapid growth, like during pregnancy and infancy. Women, who consume adequate amounts of folate during their childbearing years, can reduce their risk of delivering babies with a neutral tube defect.
  • Enriched with the amino acid tryptophan, chickpeas are a good source of serotonin which regulates fluctuating moods and sleeping disorders. Eating chickpeas before bedtime leads to calmness and induces a good night’s sleep.

Ref.http://recipeclout.india-server.com/chickpeas.html

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.

Pumpkin Halwa

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Pumpkin Halwa NG.jpg

Yellow pumpkin /kashiphal/Seetaphal Halwa

Hi friends! An out of the ordinary  delicious Halwa made with the goodness of pumpkins.

Cuisine: India, North India

Course: Dessert

Serves : 8

Recipe Cook Time :2 hours, 45 minutes Approximately

Ingredients:

  • 2 kg fresh Pumpkin/kashiphal/seetaphal (yellow)
  • 1 1/2 liters milk
  • 1 cup Almond- Slivered
  • 2 tbsp Poppy seeds/ khus khus , washed and soaked in water for two hours
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 5-7 tbsp Clarified butter /Cow’s milk ghee

Method:

Step 1.

Wash and peel the pumpkin. Cut the pumpkin into small cubes.

Step 2.

Take a thick bottom deep pan / wok put pumpkin pieces add 1000 ml milk .

Step 3.

Bring the milk to boil, cook the Pumpkin in milk on slow fire.As the milk starts evaporating, gradually keep on adding rest of the 500 ml milk and continue cooking on slow fire till pumpkin is well blended with milk.

Step 4.

Add the poppy seeds /khuskhus to the mixture.

Step 5.

Heat ghee in a heavy pan and fry the Almond flakes till light pink in colour. Add the cooked Pumpkin.

Step 6.

Cook over a low flame for 10-15 minutes more.

Step 7.

Stir in sugar and continue cooking until the halwa is having thick consistency, starts leaving the sides of the pan, switch off the stove.

Step 8.

Garnish with slivered almonds, serve hot.

Note: For Sugar free dessert sugar can be replaced with 2 cups of Splenda-( Sugar substitute/Sugar free)

Health benefits of Pumpkin:

  • It is one of the very low calorie vegetables. 100 g fruit provides just 26 calories and contains no saturated fats or cholesterol
  • it is rich in dietary fiber, anti-oxidants, minerals, vitamins. The vegetable is one of the food items recommended by dieticians in cholesterol controlling and weight reduction programs.
  • Pumpkin is a storehouse of many anti-oxidant vitamins such as vitamin-A, vitamin-C and vitamin-E.With 7384 mg per 100 g, it is one of the vegetables in the Cucurbitaceae family featuring highest levels of vitamin-A, providing about 246% of RDA. Vitamin A is a powerful natural anti-oxidant and is required by the body for maintaining the integrity of skin and mucus membranes.It is also an essential vitamin for good visual sight. Research studies suggest that natural foods rich in vitamin A help a body protects against lung and oral cavity cancers.
  • It is also an excellent source of many natural poly-phenolic flavonoid compounds such as α, ß carotenes, cryptoxanthin, lutein and zea-xanthin. Carotenes convert into vitamin A inside the body.Zea-xanthin is a natural anti-oxidant which has UV (ultra-violet) rays filtering actions in the macula lutea in retina of the eyes. Thus, it helps protect from “age-related macular disease” (ARMD) in the elderly.
  • The fruit is a good source of B-complex group of vitamins like folates, niacin, vitamin B-6 (pyridoxine), thiamin and pantothenic acid.It is also rich source of minerals like copper, calcium, potassium and phosphorus.

Ref. http://www.nutrition-and-you.com/pumpkin.html

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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Coconut garlic ginger Chutney

~ saanjhachullha ~ Leave a comment

 

Chutney dosa

Coconut,garlic, ginger Chutney with dosa

Hi friends!This one is a simple yet tasty chutney. It is enriched with garlic flavor. This goes very well  with hot idles or dosa.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time:0 minutes

servings: 3-4

Ingredients:

1 cup grated coconut

2 small green chillies , chopped

1 tsp grated ginger / adrak

2,3 cloves of garlic/ lahsoon

1 small marble size tamarind (de seeded)

3 tbsp roasted chana dal (daria)

1/2 tsp salt / or salt to taste

1/2 cup water

For The Tempering:

1/2 tsp mustard seeds (  sarson)

1 red chilli

1 small sprig of cury leaves (kadi patta)

1 tbsp oil

Method:

Step 1.

Put the coconut, green chillies, ginger, garlic, tamarind,  roasted split gram and salt in a blender with 1/2 cup of water and grind to make a fine paste. Keep aside.

Step 2.

Prepare the tempering by heating the oil and adding the mustard seeds, red chili and curry leaves and stirring till the mustard seeds crackle. Pour this tempering over the chutney and mix well.

Step 3.

Serve with dosa, idli and vadas. Refrigerate and use as required

Health Benefits of Coconuts:

  • Lower cholesterol
    • Improve digestion
    • Ward off wrinkles
    • Stabilize glucose levels
    • Fight off viruses
    • Build cells
    • Regulate hormones
    • Increase thyroid production
    • Lose weight
    • Increase metabolism
    • Fight infections
    • Stave off memory loss
    • Kill bacteria
    • And more!

Ref. http://undergroundhealthreporter.com/coconut-health-benefits/

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.

 

Save