North Indian cuisine

Chana Dal with Kaddu

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kaddu Chana Dal

Bengal gram dal with yellow Pumpkin

Hi friends! Combination of Chana dal and pumpkin is highly nutritious, has a rich flavour and aroma, is amazingly delicious and gets easily digested.

 Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 35 minutes

Total time: 40 minutes

Recipe type: main

Cuisine: north Indian

Serves: 4

Ingredients:

for cooking the chana dal in pressure cooker:

  • 1 cup chana dal/bengal gram dal
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric/haldi
  • 1/4 tsp asafetida/hing
  • ½ tsp red chili powder
  • 1 tsp salt or / Salt as required
  • 1/2 tsp cumin seed / jeera
  • 1 tbsp cooking oil
  • 500 ml water

for seasoning:

  • 200 gms Yellow pumpkin, Cut into small cubes
  • 2 medium sized tomatoes
  • 1 medium size onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp ginger/adrak, finely grated
  • 8-9 garlic cloves, crushed
  • 1/2 tsp cumin seed/jeera
  • 1 1/2 tbsp coriander powder/dhania powder
  • 3 cloves, powdered
  • 1 Bay leaf
  • 2 Black Cardamom seeds, powdered
  • 2 tsps fresh lime juice
  • 2 tbsp Pure Ghee
  • 1 tbsp fresh coriander/cilantro leaves, finely chopped, for garnishing

Method:

Step 1.

Clean and wash the chana dal well, soak the dal for an hour in 500 ml water, keep aside

Step 2.

In a pressure cooker heat a tablespoon of cooking oil, add cumin seed, wait till starts spluttering, add asafetida fry for few second till turns pink.

Step 3.

Add the chana dal with water and turmeric, chili powder powder . On a full flame place the pressure cooker on the stove. 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.

Step 4.

Open the lid of the pressure cooker, dal is well cooked, keep aside.

Step 5.

Take a pan, heat ghee add the cumin first and fry for a few seconds, add the onions and fry till they become light brown, add the garlic and fry till golden. Add coriander powder, fry for few seconds,  add clove and Black cardamom powder. Add pumpkin pieces, fry for 3-5 minutes, now add the tomatoes, ginger, stir and sauté on low flame till the tomatoes get cooked and the oil starts to leave the side of the mixture.

Step 6.

Pour this tempering mixture on the dal, stir and simmer the dal for 10-15 minutes till dal is well blended, the dal is neither thick nor thin. Add fresh lime juice.Garnish chana dal with chopped coriander leaves. Serve the chana dal hot with basmati rice pulaos or with any of the Indian breads.

Note:

The consistency of the dal can be easily adjusted, if the dal becomes thick, then after adding the tempering, add some water and simmer for some minutes or if the dal become thin, simmer for a longer time so that you get the right consistency.

Possible health benefits of consuming pumpkin:

Consuming fruits and vegetables of all kinds has long been associated with a reduced risk of many lifestyle-related health conditions. Many studies have suggested that increasing consumption of plant foods like pumpkin decreases the risk of obesity and overall mortality. It can also help stave off diabetes, heart disease, and promote a healthy complexion and hair, increased energy, and overall lower weight.

Pumpkin is one of the best-known sources of beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant that gives orange vegetables and fruits their vibrant color. Beta-carotene is converted to vitamin A in the body once it is eaten.

Consuming foods rich in beta-carotene may reduce the risk of developing certain types of cancer, offer protection against asthma and heart disease, and delay aging and body degeneration.

Ref.http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/279610.php

Possible health benefits of consuming Chana dal:

  • Chana dal is high in fiber and helps to lower cholesterol.
  • It also has a very low hypoglycemic index, which is important for those with diabetes.
  • Chana dal is a helpful source of zinc, folate, calcium and protein.
  • It is low in fat and most of it is polyunsaturated.
  • Chana dal is extremely delicious in taste, full of nutritious and can be digested easily.

Ref.http://healthytips-foryou.blogspot.in/2014/11/health-benefits-of-chana-dal.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.

 

Lauki Tamatar

~ saanjhachullha ~ 2 Comments

Ghiya ki sabzi

Lauki Tamater/ Bottle gourd with Tomatoes

Ingredients:

  • 500 gms lauki
  • 2 medium size tomato , finely chopped
  • 1 medium size Onion, finely chopped
  • 2/3 tsp cumin seeds
  • 2 tsp coriander powder
  • ½   tsp red chili powder
  • ½   tsp turmeric powder
  • a Pinch of asafetida (Hing)
  • 3 tbsp Olive oil
  • 1tbsp coriander leaves, finely chopped
  • 2/3 tsp salt or/ salt to your taste

Method:

Step 1.

Wash and peel the lauki/ bottle gourd, slice off the top and bottom tip and cut it into small
cubes, soak in water till used later.
Step 2.

In a wok/ kdahi heat oil, add cumin seed, when it crackles , add asafetida and fry tll it turns pink. Add chopped onions,fry till onion turns golden brown.

Step 3.

Add the spices,coriander powder, red chili powder, turmeric powder and mix with the oil and fry them for few seconds more.

Step 4.

Add finely chopped tomatoes and cook covered for eight to ten minutes on low flame or until they become soft and blend with spices.

Step 5.

Add cubed lauki/ bottle gourd pieces, salt and one cup of water and mix everything together, close the lid turn the heat to low flame.

Step 6.

Add more water if needed and cook till lauki is cooked well, once you have the desired consistency turn the stove off.

Step 7.

Serve hot, garnish with chopped coriander leaves.
Note:
Bottle gourd/ lauki is a bland vegetable, try to cook with other ingredients and combination, to make this dish delicious. For variations cook lauki with onion masala or to cook lauki with channa Dals / Lentils.

 

Health benefits of lauki / Bottle gourd:

Bottle gourd, also known as lauki or doodhi in India is a popular vegetable used in dishes all across the country. One of the famous health benefits of the vegetable is that it is easy to digest and great for those suffering from digestive problems. However, lauki has more health benefits than one and here are some of them.

  1. Aids digestion

People suffering from constipation should eat bottle gourd as it is high in fibre and helps clear the food stuck in your colon. Additionally, juice made out of bottle gourd also helps in the treatment of acidity as it is alkaline in nature. Read about more home remedies that can cure constipation. 

  1. Great for weight loss

Bottle gourd is one of the best foods you can have if you want to lose weight as it is 96% water, and a 100g serving contains as little as 12 calories. The high fibre content will take care of your hunger, and keep you feeling full. Here is a sample weight loss diet for your reference.

  1. Helps treat urinary disorders

Bottle gourd has a cooling effect on your body, and a glass of bottle gourd juice is a great diuretic that can be used to treat burning sensation while passing urine. This burning sensation is caused due to high levels of acid in the urine, which can be countered by the alkaline nature of bottle gourd juice.

  1. Refreshes you during summers

Just like cucumber, bottle gourd too has a high amount of water which keeps you hydrated during summers. Drinking a glass of its juice will ensure that you do not face loss of sodium, fatigue or extreme thirst while you are out in the sun. This makes it great for people whose jobs require them to travel in daylight.

  1. Prevents heart disease

Unhealthy lifestyles are leading to several cases of heart disease in urban India. So much so that, 70% of the urban population is at risk of heart disease due to wrong lifestyle choices like eating fried and processed foods, smoking, etc. Like a lot of fruits and vegetables, bottle gourd has zero cholesterol and is rich in Vitamins like Vitamin C and antioxidants making it good for your heart.

  1. Reduces stress

It is quite easy to feel stressed in today’s times, and unhealthy eating can only worsen the situation. Bottle gourd has a high water content has a cooling effect on your body which makes you feel better the very moment you take it. It also has diuretic, sedative and antibilious properties which makes your body feel better internally, and keeps stress at bay. Read more about how you can combat stress.

Ref. http://www.thehealthsite.com/fitness/health-benefits-lauki-dudhi-bottle-gourds-sa114/

Makhana Kheer

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Makhana kheer NG 1

Makhana Kheer / puffed Lotus seeds Kheer

Hi friends! Makhana kheer is a delicious desert. Makhanas/Fox nuts/Lotus seeds are puffed lotus seeds and are used in making several dishes and snacks. In Northern India Makhanas are often used for snack. Makhana kheer is very easy to make and you can enjoy it as a dessert.

Ingredients:

  • 4 Cup of Makhanas , shallow fried and crushed coarsely
  • 3   tbsp ghee / butter
  • 6   Cups of whole milk
  • 12 almonds , thin slices
  • 12 pistachios , thin slice
  • 1/2 Cup of sugar or/ Sugar to taste
  • 1/4 tsp strings of saffron
  • 6 green cardamoms, powdered
  • 12 Raisins

Method:

Step 1.

In a heavy bottom pan add milk and bring it to boil , turn to medium heat, while keep    stirring periodically (so that milk does not burn from the bottom) till it is thickened or reduced to 70%.

Step 2.

In the mean time heat a wok / Kadahi with ghee. On a high flame fry the makhanas, stirring continuously . when makahanas are well fried, will become crispy.Switch off the stove, cool and coarsely crush the makhanas, keep aside. ( Approx. 5-6 minutes)
Step 3.
Once milk become little thicker add saffron, sautéed makhanna and let the makhanas and milk simmer for 20 to 25 minutes on low heat or until milk reduce to half and of acreamy consistency, stirring frequently.

Step 4.

Once makhannas become soft and milk become thick and creamy add sugar, and sliced nuts, mix and cook for another couple of minutes. Turn the stove off.
Step 5.

Transfer the kheer in a serving bowl and sprinkle other half of nuts. Serve the makhana kheer hot or cold.

Possible health and beauty benefits of Lotus seeds:

Lotus seeds, commonly known as makhana in India, are the seeds of the water lotus plant. The seeds are small, round and white or off-white in appearance. They are the edible seeds of lotus flower which can be roasted or fried. Lotus seeds are used for nutritional and healing properties in Chinese medicine. The lotus seeds are highly useful in terms of nutritional benefits and are low in saturated fats, sodium and cholesterol; high in magnesium potassium, thiamine and phosphorus. Besides being edible, the lotus plant has many health and beauty benefits as well. You can use makhana seeds in desserts, rice porridge, soups and stir fry dishes.

Lotus seeds are also a good source of protein, iron and zinc, which makes them extremely nutritious. They contain the anti-aging enzyme, which assist repair damaged proteins. Due to this anti-aging propery, many cosmetic companies are trying to include the seeds in their products. Along with it, the seeds have a natural flavonoid which prevents inflammation. Lotus seeds have an astringent property which benefits the kidneys and helps to restore vital energy within the body. The sweet and neutral taste of makhana seeds nourish the spleen and alleviate diarrhea. Makhana seeds are endowed with sedative properties and are used to treat insomnia or restlessness. The lotus embryo is useful for heart because of its bitter and cooling properties. Also it can help dilate blood vessels, thus reducing blood pressure.

According to western research, the seeds are antiviral which help fight the herpes 1 virus. Also it has been founded useful in lowering hypertension. One of the vital medicinal benefits of lotus seeds is stopping chronic diarrhea. Due to astringent properties, the seeds are consumed to help relieve the symptoms of diarrhea and improve appetite. Other major benefits of lotus seeds include palpitations, insomnia and irritability. They are also used to control bleeding.

Since makhana seeds are high in fiber, it helps to avoid constipation. Also they help the body to remove the waste; prevent the accumulation of toxins.  Lotus seeds are low in calories, fat and high in fiber and thus helpful in diabetes. It lowers the blood sugar level. The seeds are recommended for women during pregnancy and post natal weakness; helps in female infertility. The makhana seeds are also used in the treatment of arthritis and rheumatic pains. Further, the seeds are beneficial in weight loss too as they are high in fiber and low in calories .Lotus seeds are also very useful in anemia. The lotus seeds can be digested by all age groups. They are a healthy snack for children .Just roast the seeds a bit and add a pinch of salt.
Ref. http://healthyfoodsonly.blogspot.in/2012/11/health-and-beauty-benefits-of-lotus.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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Green Peas Rice

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 Rice with peas 2

Green Peas Pulao / Matar Pulav

Serves: 2
Cooking time (approx.): 20 minutes
Cuisine: North Indian, Vegetarian
Ingredients:

  • 1  cup Basmati rice / long grain rice, uncooked
  • 1  cup green peas, shelled
  • 2  medium size onions, finely sliced
  • 1 tsp Cumin seed / Geera
  • 2  tablespoons butter olive oil
  • 2 1/2  cups water
  • 1 1/2 tsp salt to taste

Method:

Step 1.

Wash the rice well. Soak it in water for half an hour for best results. Keep aside.

Step 2.

Heat oil on medium flame in a large heavy-bottomed pan, add cumin seed, when it splutters add sliced onions .

Step 3.

Fry for a few minutes, till onions turn light golden brown.

Step 4.

Add the rice, green peas, water and salt to the fried onions. Mix well bring to boil on high flame. Once it stars boiling , reduce heat to low flame and cook covered on low level for ten to fifteen minutes or till all water is absorbed.

Step 5.

Serve hot , garnishing with a sprinkling of black pepper powder.

Note: Green peas / matar are a good way to add more taste to Basmati rice.Green peas rice is more delicious when served with curries, Raitas and salads .

Quick Ginger Pickle

~ saanjhachullha ~ 1 Comment

(Oil-Free pickle in lime juice / Adrak Ka Acchar)

Ginger pickle NG

Ginger Pickle (Adrak Ka Acchar) is a very delicious Indian Style, oil-free pickle. Ready in no time, this tangy and tasty mouthwatering  pickle is most enjoyed with all Indian breads like stuffed Parathas etc. for breakfast.

Total time: 20 minutes

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cook time: 0 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 12 Fresh limes
  • 200 gms Fresh ginger
  • 2/3 tsp Salt

Method:

Step 1.

Wash the lemons thoroughly. Wipe them dry using a kitchen towel.

Cut each lime into two halves and keep aside.

Step 2.

Wash the ginger well and dry it. Peel and cut into very thin slices. Cut the slices into thin strips.

Step 3.

Take a sterilized glass jar. Combine the lemon juice, salt and ginger slices in it and mix well.

Step 4.

Seal the jar with a lid and keep in the sun everyday for 8 to 10 days. The ginger will turn pink with pickling. It is now ready to serve with rice dishes or Indian breads.

Note: Toss the ingredients in the jar occasionally. Store in a cool dry place.

Health benefits of Ginger:

Ginger, with its strong and spicy aroma, has its own place in Indian cuisine. It may be used fresh or dried, powdered or pickled or in the form of juice or oil.  Ginger tea, the classic Indian household favourite, is the most commonly used form, not to mention the ginger concoction given every time someone catches a c.

For thousands of years, ginger has been used for the treatment of innumerable ailments due to its powerful therapeutic and preventive effects. It has anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antioxidant, and anti-emetic properties. It helps to decrease inflammation, swelling and pain due to its ability to inhibit prostaglandin and leukotriene synthesis. It inhibits serotonin receptors and has the ability to break up and expel intestinal gas (carminative effect) which makes it a good antiemetic agent. Its antioxidant activity, the ability to induce cell death (apoptosis) and suppressing certain protein bestows it with anticancer properties. Compounds found in ginger are known to suppress allergic reactions. All these properties make ginger a powerhouse of health benefits. Here are few of them:

Respiratory problems

Ginger’s antihistamine property helps in treating allergies. It is also known to inhibit airway contraction and help stimulate the secretion of mucus. It is the herb of choice for persistent cough and sore throat associated with colds. A teaspoon of ginger juice with honey is effective against sore throat. And ginger tea is an all-time favourite to get rid of congestion in the throat and nose. Fresh ginger juice mixed with fenugreek and honey is excellent during asthma. Here’s how you can get instant relief from cough and cold.

Treating nausea and vomiting

Chewing on ginger could reduce nausea and vomiting. According to studies, ginger can treat sensations of nausea following surgery, and due to motion sickness, seasickness, etc. It is also beneficial for nausea as a result of adverse effect of chemotherapy.

Preventing morning sickness

Some pregnant women may find ginger beneficial in preventing their morning sickness. But it is advisable to consult your doctor before taking it. Read more about how you can deal with morning sickness.

Remedy for loss of appetite

Fuel a dull appetite by eating fresh ginger just before you have your meal. Ginger can get your digestive juices going and increase your appetite.

Aiding in digestion

Had a large meal? Eat ginger. Ginger improves absorption and assimilation of essential nutrients and aids in digestion. It also helps break down the proteins in your food. Ginger protects your stomach against ulcers by promoting mucus secretion. Also you can try these yoga poses to improve digestion.

Anti-flatulence

Calm in your upset stomach with ginger. Its carminative (gas expulsion) property provides relief from bloating and gas and helps reduce flatulence. Here are some tips to keep flatulence away.

Reduce menstrual pain

Ginger, when taken at the beginning of the menstrual period, can reduce symptoms of menstrual pain in some women. Here are some tried and tested tips to relieve menstrual pain.

Relieve headache

Applying diluted ginger paste on the forehead is believed to relieve migraine headache. The ability of ginger to inhibit prostaglandin synthesis helps relieve pain and inflammation in blood vessels thereby providing relief from migraine. Here’s how ginger can help you to get rid of headache.

Arthritis

The analgesic and anti-inflammatory property of ginger may help reduce joint pain of arthritis in some people. To help relieve muscle and joint ache, add some ginger oil into your bath.

Read more about causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of cancer.

Cancer

Ginger root contains a very high level of antioxidants. Ginger has the ability to induce cell death (apoptosis) and suppress certain protein. According to some studies, ginger may be a powerful weapon against cancers. Here are top 10 food habits to prevent cancer.

Ref: http://www.thehealthsite.com/diseases-conditions/10-health-benefits-of-ginger

Lasooni palak paneer

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Spinach Garlic Cheese 1

Lasooni palak paneer/Cheese Garlic Spinach

Hi friends! Garlic flavored spinach leaves cooked with cottage cheese / Paneer.

Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes

Servings: 4

Preparation Time: 10-15 minutes

Category: Vegetarian

Ingredients:

  • 500 gms Spinach/ Palak
  • 150 gms Paneer/ Cottage cheese
  • 2 medium size Onions finely chopped
  • 15 cloves of garlic
  • 1/4 tsp asafetida powder
  • 1/2 tsp red chili powder
  • 1/8 tsp baking soda
  • 2/3 tsp salt
  • 3 tbsp Olive oil

Method:

Step 1.

Wash the spinach very well, finely chop and keep aside.

Step 2.

Cut Paneer/ Cottage cheese into small cubes, keep aside.

Step 3.

Heat the oil in a wok / kadahi and add the asafetida. Fry for few seconds till pink in colour.

Step 4.

Add chopped onions to the asafetida seasoning. Saute till translucent, about three to four minutes. Add crushed garlic, saute for few minutes more.

Step 5.

Add in the spinach salt , red chili powder and baking soda . Cover and cook on a slow flame for five minutes and add paneer/ cottage cheese pieces.

Step 6.

Cook for ten minutes on low flame till spinach is well blended with the cottage cheese. Serve hot with chapattis or any other Indian breads.

 Health benefits of Spinach / Palak:

Spinach is an excellent food loaded with tons of nutrients and a low calorie package. Greens like spinach are important for skin and hair, bone health, and provide protein, iron, vitamins and minerals.

As per studies the possible health benefits of consuming spinach include improving blood glucose control in diabetics, lowering the risk of cancer, lowering blood pressure, improving bone health, lowering the risk of developing asthma and more.

Ref. http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/270609.php

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.

 

 

Sukhe Aloo

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Sukhe Aloo

Potatoes/ Aloo Sabzi

Ingredients:

  • 6 medium size potatoes/ aloo, boiled and peeled
  • 1 tbsp ginger, finely grated
  • a pinch asafoetida/ heeng
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1/2 tsp chilli powder
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tbsp coriander seeds, powder
  • 4 cloves, roasted and powdered
  • 2 tsp mango powder
  • 1 level tsp Salt or / salt to taste
  • 2 tbsp coriander leaves, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup oil

Method:

Step 1.

Cook the potatoes in a pressure cooker with two cups of water. The moment pressure is formed, reduce the heat to low flame for 5 minutes, switch off the stove.  Let the cooker cool to room temperature, open the lid take out the potatoes, peel and cut the potatoes into small cubes and Keep aside.

Step 2.

Heat the oil or ghee in a wok /kadahi/ pan add the cumin seeds, when it starts spluttering, add asafetida. Fry for few seconds till asafetida turns light pink, add ginger and chili, turmeric, clove, coriander powder, sauté for one or two minutes more.

Step 3.

Add cubed potatoes, salt, raw mango powder to the fried masala. Mix well, cook for few minutes till the masala is well blended with potatoes.

Step 4.

Garnish with the chopped coriander leaves and serve hot with Puris and other Indian breads.

Note:The sookhe aloo can be cooked in many different ways. So many recipes are there to choose from.

Tips for Preparing and cooking Potatoes:

The potato skin is a concentrated source of dietary fiber, so to get the most nutritional value from this vegetable, don’t peel it and consume both the flesh and the skin.

Just scrub the potato under cold running water right before cooking and then remove any deep eyes or bruises with a paring knife. If you must peel it, do so carefully with a vegetable peeler, only removing a thin layer of the skin and therefore retaining the nutrients that lie just below the skin.

Potatoes should be cleaned and cut right before cooking in order to avoid the discoloration that occurs with exposure to air.

If you cannot cook them immediately after cutting, place them in a bowl of cold water to which you have added a little bit of lemon juice, as this will prevent their flesh from darkening and will also help to maintain their shape during cooking.

As potatoes are also sensitive to certain metals that may cause them to discolor, avoid cooking them in iron or aluminum pots or using a carbon steel knife to cut them.

About Potatoes:

Whether mashed, baked or roasted, people often consider potatoes as comfort food. It is an important food staple and the number one vegetable crop in the world. Potatoes are available year-round as they are harvested somewhere every month of the year.

The potato belongs to the Solanaceae or nightshade family whose other members include tomatoes, eggplants, peppers, and tomatillos. They are the swollen portion of the underground stem which is called a tuber and is designed to provide food for the green leafy portion of the plant. If allowed to flower and fruit, the potato plant will bear an inedible fruit resembling a tomato.

Potatoes are a very good source of vitamin B6 and a good source of potassium, copper, vitamin C, manganese, phosphorus, niacin, dietary fiber, and pantothenic acid.

For an in-depth nutritional profile click here: Potato.

Ref. http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=48#

Aloo Curry

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Aloo tamater 3  Puri

(Aloo sabzi with Puris)

Prep time: 20 minutes

Cook time: 10 minutes

Total time: 30 minutes

Recipe type: main

Cuisine: North Indian

Serves: 2-3

Ingredients:

  • 4 medium size potatoes , boiled, peeled and cut into small cubes
  • 2 medium tomatoes/tamatar
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds/jeera
  • 1/2 tsp red chili powder
  • 1/4 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1/4 tsp asafetida / heeng
  • 1 tbsp ginger, finely chopped
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 tbsp Olive oil
  • 1 tbsp coriander leaves, finely chopped for garnishing

Method:

 Step 1.

 Cook the potatoes in a pressure cooker with two cups of water. The moment pressure is formed, reduce the heat to low flame for 5 minutes, switch off the stove. Cool the cooker to room temperature, open the lid take out the potatoes, peel and cut into small cubes three potatoes. Mash coarsely the fourth potato and Keep aside.

Step 2.

Heat the oil or ghee in a pan add the cumin seeds, when it starts spluttering, add asafetida. Fry for few seconds till asafetida turns light pink.

Step 3.

Add the tomatoes and saute till they become soft and you see the oil leaving the sides.

Step 4.

Add cubed and mashed potatoes, red chili powder, chopped ginger, salt and two cups of water stir. Mashed potato is added to help in thickening the gravy.

Step 5.

Let the curry cook for 7-8 minutes or more on a medium flame, till it thickens slightly.

Step 6.

Garnish with coriander leaves, serve hot, with puris.

 

Health benefits of Aaloo (Potato)

Contrary to the popular belief that potatoes should be avoided because they are rich in starch, medical reports today claim that potatoes should be consumed as they help in enriching the body with essential nutrients. Potatoes are rich in phytochemicals which help in fighting against respiratory diseases, cardiovascular ailments and several types of cancer.

People suffering from high blood pressure should consume potatoes. Potato contains a compound known as kukoamine which helps in lowering blood pressure.

Potato is rich in vitamin B6 which aids in building and repairing body cells. This vitamin leads to the production of enzymes in the body, which in turn leads to chemical reactions which cause cell repairs. Apart from repairing of human body and brain cells, this nutrient is responsible for the production of the molecule amine in the human body, which helps in transmissions between different nerves of the human nervous system.

Potatoes are highly effective in relieving high blood pressure caused due to tension, indigestion, nature of food and several other reasons. The fiber content is known for lowering cholesterol and improving the functioning of insulin in the body, thereby lowering blood pressure.

The fiber content of potato helps in lowering plasma cholesterol and triglyceride concentration in the human body.

Potato contains large quantities of starch which helps to improve insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance.

Potatoes make an ideal food for people who are lean and thin. With mounds of carbohydrates and proteins, they help in promoting weight gain.

Easy to digest, potatoes help in facilitating the digestion process, especially for people who cannot digest hard food but require energy, such as patients and babies.

Potatoes have vitamin C, vitamin B-complex, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus and zinc in significant amounts which are beneficial for the skin. They are great for curing pimples, spots, burns and even help in softening and cleaning the skin, particularly around elbows, back of the palms, and so on.

The vitamin C content in potatoes is helpful for preventing the dreaded deficiency disease scurvy and its symptoms, like cracked lip corners, spongy and bleeding gums, and frequent viral infections.

Potatoes have essential nutrients that help in providing relief to rheumatism due to the high starch or carbohydrate content that increases weight and reverses the effects of this disorder.

Ref.http://nutrition.indobase.com/articles/potato-nutrition.php

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.

 

Suji/Semolina Halwa

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Suji Halwa 1

Suji/Semolina Halwa

Hi friends!Suji/Semolina halwa is a simple yet delicious and yummy sweetened semolina, fried in ghee and garnished with nuts. Its also popularly known as Kesari bath in the southern region of India.

Recipe Servings: 6

Cook time: 20 minutes

Cuisine: Indian Dessert

Level: Easy

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup sooji  /semolina
  • 2/3 cup sugar
  • 3 1/2 cups water
  • 4 tbsp pure ghee
  • 9 green Cardamoms, powdered
  • 2 tbsp blanched and shredded almonds for garnishing

Method:

Step 1.

In a pan put the sugar and water and bring it to boil. Keep on simmer, till required.

Step 2.

In a wok/ Kadahi, melt the ghee add the sooji and stir fry over medium heat, stir it continually for about 8-10 minutes. When the sooji is light golden in colour and does not stick together much , it is well fried .

Step 3.

Pour the hot sugar solution into the fried sooji gently and carefully, stirring continually. Add cardamom powder and bring to a boil, stir continuously. Once the water is added, to the suji mixture, stir well so that no lumps are formed. Suji / Semolina absorbs the water added and swells.

Step 4.

Thoroughly mix let whole mixture, cook for 5-6 minutes more. keep on stirring so that the Suji halwa does not stick to the wok / Kadahi and starts leaving the sides. Suji halwa is ready now.
Serve hot, garnished with the almonds.

Health Benefits of Suji/Semolina :
  • Prevents overeating. Semolina is made up of durum wheat which means it keeps you full for a longer period of time and prevents you from overeating. …
  • Boosts energy. …
  • Keeps bones and nervous system healthy. …
  • Improves heart health. …
  • Prevents anemia.

Ref. http://www.thehealthsite.com/fitness/health-benefits-of-semolina-or-suji/

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.

Vegetable Rice

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DSC02171

Prep time: 30 minutes

Cook time: 25 minutes

Total time: 55 minutes

 Recipe type: main

Cuisine: Indian

Serves: 8

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups long grained or basmati rice soaked for 30 minutes
  • 1/2 cup each (cauliflower, carrots, green peas, French beans )
  • 1 big potato, peeled and cut into small cubes
  • 2 medium onions, sliced
  • 4 1/2 cup water
  • 2 to 3 tbsp Olive oil
  • 1 1/2 tsp salt or / salt to taste
  • 1 tsp cumin Jeera/cumin seeds
  • 1 bay leaf / tej patta
  • 2-3 cloves/ laung
  • 1 black cardamom / badi elaichi
  • 1 pinch of Nutmeg/ Jayaphal
  • 1 inch cinnamon/ dal chini

Method:

Step 1.

In a deep sauce pan heat oil and fry all the whole spices for 2-3 minutes and a nice fragrance is emitted.

Step 2.

Add the onions and  fry them till golden brown .

Step 3.

Add all the veggies, potatoes and  1/2 teaspoon salt, saute again for 4-5 minutes on a low flame.

Step 4.

Drain the rice add to the fried spices and vegetables and mix well.

Step 5.

Add four cups of water, 1 1/2 teaspoon salt and stir.cover with well fitting lid and bring it to boil on high flame. Reduce the heat to low flame and let the rice cook till the water is absorbed and the rice is well cooked.

Step 6.

Switch off the stove and let the rice stand for 6-7 minutes.

Step 7.

Serve the vegetable pulao hot with some side dishes or raita.
Note: Aromatic, very delicious and wholesome,vegetable pulao is an easy and simple preparation, with Basmati rice.

 

 

Spicy Stuffed Tinda

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DSC02165

(Spicy stuffed Tinda / Round Gourd)

Preparation Time : 15-20 minutes

Cooking time : 15 minutes

Servings : 6

Cuisine: North Indian / Punjabi

Course: Main -Vegetarian

Level Of Cooking: Medium

Ingredients:

  • Tinda 500 grams
  • 1 medium Onion, finely chopped
  • 2 medium Tomatoes, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp Ginger grated
  • 1 tsp garlic paste
  • 1/2 tsp Turmeric powder
  • 4 tsp Coriander powder
  • 1/2 tsp Red chilli powder
  • 1 tsp mango powder / amchoor
  • 1/2 tsp ginger powder
  • 1/4 tsp asafetida
  • 1 Tbsp fennel seeds
  • 1/2 tsp fenugreek seed
  • 2/3 tsp Salt or /salt to taste
  • 1 tsp Cumin seeds
  • 3 tbsp Oil
  • 2 tbsp coriander leaves, finely chopped

Method :

Step 1

Wash and dry the tindas and Slice off both ends and peel off the skin. Slit each tinda into four without separating the pieces, ready for filling the masala.

Step 2

Mix half teaspoon turmeric powder, three tea spoon coriander powder, half teaspoon red chilli powder , amchoor / mango powder , ginger powder, fennel seeds powder, fenugreek seed powder and salt mix all these dry ingredients and stuff the slit tindas with this mixture.

Step 3

Heat oil in a pressure cooker. Add the cumin seeds and when they start spluttering, add the onion and ginger, garlic paste and sauté for three- four minutes on medium heat. Add the tomatoes and sauté till they become soft and pulpy.

Step 4

Add the remaining 1/4 tea spoon turmeric powder, one teaspoon coriander powder to the onion, tomato masala and stir intermittently. If the mixture is too dry put a 1/4 cup of water and sauté for a few minutes.

Step 5

Add the stuffed tindas and add half cup of water, close the cooker with the lid and cook till the pressure is formed. Switch off the stove, cool the pressure cooker to room temperature.

Step 6.

Open the lid , garnish with fresh coriander leaves. Serve hot with any Indian bread of your choice!

Health benefits of Tinda (Round Gourd): Tinda is famous vegetable in India and Pakistan and regarded as super food due to its numerous health benefits. It contains antioxidants like carotenoids and many anti-inflammatory agents, which are effective for controlling blood pressure, heart diseases, and strokes and prevent cancer formation.

It is very mild and soothing vegetable for intestinal tract. A lot of fiber helps in digestion, helps in diarrhea by increased water absorption, relieves stomach acidity, and prevents constipation. Some researches indicate that they are good food for healthy skin and hairs, its consumption result in very long and healthy hairs. It increases the urinary flow and excretes toxins from the kidney.

Carotenes present in pumpkins slow the aging process and prevent age related changes in body like cataract formation, grey hairs, thickening of blood vessels bone degeneration, and age related brain cell degeneration. Over all this vegetable, have magical effects on body if used regularly.

Ref. http://www.desiclinic.com/roman/tinda-156.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.

Lauki / Bottle Gourd Koftas

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Lauki kofta

Lauki /Ghiya / Bottle Guard Kofta

 Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Serves : 5-6

Ingredients:

For Koftas:

  • 750 gms lauki /ghiya / bottle gourd
  • 1/2 cup of besan / gram flour
  • 1/2 tsp of red chilli powder
  • 1/4 tsp hing / asafetida
  • 1/4 tsp carom seeds/ Ajwain
  • 1/2 tsp of salt /or salt  to taste
  • 12 kishmish pieces
  • Oil for deep frying

For Gravy:

  • 3 medium size onions, cut in to small pieces
  • 4  medium size tomatoes, chopped
  • 1/4 tsp  turmeric powder
  • 2 tbsp of coriander powder
  • 1/2 tsp  red chilli powder (adjust to taste)
  • 2/3 tsp Salt / or salt to taste
  • 1 tbsp fresh coriander leaves, finely chopped for garnishing
  • 2 tbsp of oil
  • 12 Cashews, powdered
  • 1/2 cup plain curd/yogurt
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil

 Method :

For the Koftas:

 Step 1.

Take the bottle gourd / lauki and peel it and grate it fine.Squeeze out the excess water and put the lauki in to a mixing bowl . Add the chilli powder, salt, Ajwain, besan and hing, mix well .

Step 2. 

Make small lemon-sized balls with this mixture and make a small dent with yor thumb in the center to place a kishmish close it up and make the ball smooth.

Step 3.

Heat the oil in a frying pan.On medium hot flame, fry the koftas until golden brown all over.  keep turning to cook evenly.

Step 4.
Drain and keep aside.
For the Gravy:

Step1.

Heat oil in a pan add add the chopped onions.When onions turn translucent and starts to turn light golden brown , add the turmeric powder, coriander, chilli powder and salt.

Step 2.

Fry  for two three minutes,until the masala is well cooked and fragrant and is blended well with the onions .

Step 3.

Add the tomatoes and about 1/2 cup of water.Bring to boil and simmer until the tomatoes are soft (about ten minutes). Cool the mixture to room temperature.

Step 4.

Puree this mixture in a blender and return to the pan.  Bring to boil, and add the cashew powder and whisked yogurt . Mix well, adjust salt if required.

Step 5.

Remove from fire. Over cooking at this stage, after adding the yogurt is not recommended.Over cooking will spoil the texture of the gravy.

Step 6.

Add gently the koftas into the gravy and let it sit for half an hour or so before serving. Serve hot garnished with coriander leaves with all Indian breads.

 

Health benefits of bottle gourd/lauki:

This South Asian bottle gourd is bottle shaped, light green and long. The flesh inside is spongy. Bottle gourd or lauki is over 90% water therefore it is easy to digest.

It contains many vitamins and minerals, such as, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, Vitamin A, C and folate.

It is extremely popular for weight loss. Especially the bottle gourd or lauki juice.

Bottle gourd is extremely popular for reducing high blood pressure and keeping your heart healthy

Lauki or bottle gourd is known to combat excessive thirst in diabetic patients.

The fiber and the minerals in the bottle gourd or lauki supports healthy digestion and combats flatulence and combats constipation.

Bottle gourd is recommended by Ayurvedic doctors for reducing liver inflammation.

Ref. http://beautyhealthtips.in/amazing-10-health-benefits-of-bottle-gourd-lauki/

 

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.

 

Spicy Brinjal Slices

~ saanjhachullha ~ 1 Comment

Brinjal slices marinated      Brinjal slices 2

Marinated Brinjal Slices                                           Cooked Brinjal Spiced Slices

Ingredients:

  • 1 Big Purple Brinjal
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 2 tbsp Besan / Bengal gram flour
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp Dry mango powder / Amchoor
  • 1 tsp jeera/ cumin seed, roasted and powdered
  • 2/3 tsp Salt or / salt to taste
  • 2 tbsp fresh Coriander leaves, finely chopped
  • 3 tbsp Olive oil

Method:

Step 1.

Cut the brinjal into around 1/2″ slices. Drop the slices in a bowl of water for around ten minutes.

Step 2.

Drain the water and spread the slices dry in a tray.

Step 3.

In a non stick pan roast gram flour on low flame, taking care not to over roast .Cool and keep.

Step 4.

Mix  in a bowl chili powder,turmeric, amchoor/ dry mango powder, Cumin powder, and salt.Apply this mixture  on the both sides of all the brinjal slices (marinate), keep for ten minutes.

Step 5.

Sprinkle roasted gram flour / besan on all the slices, both sides.

Step 6.

Heat little oil in frying pan.Place the brinjal slices gently in the pan. Shallow fry the slices on low heat. Brinjal absorbs oil so little oil is added gradually while frying.

Step 7.

Turn the slices around and fry till they turn golden brown on both sides.

Step 8.

Garnish with finely chopped coriander leaves and serve hot.

Note: Can be served as an appetizer before the main serving or as a side dish with the main course.This  delicious dish can be served with rice and all varieties of Indian Breads.

Peppered Cauliflower

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cauliflower peppered 2

(Peppered Cauliflower/ Gobi)

“This is a simple but delicious preparation. Even people who don’t like cauliflower will love this dish!”

Cook time: 15minutes

Ingredients :

  • 1 Cauliflower medium size
  • 1/2 tsp Black pepper powder
  • 2/3 tsp salt or /salt to taste
  • 3 tbsp Olive oil or melted butter

 Method:

Step 1.

Wash the cauliflower well, cut into small florets. Take one liter water in a bowl, put two tea spoons salt in on it and soak the cauliflower florets in it for an hour. ( to clean thoroughly the cauliflower) Keep aside.

Step 2.

Take the oil or butter in a wok/ Kadahi, heat on full flame. Add cumin, when it starts spluttering reduce the heat to low flame and add cauliflower florets and salt to it, mix well.

Step 3.

Cooke covered with a lid on a low flame till well cooked. Sprinkle the pepper powder on it. Serve hot with all Indian breads.

Health Benefits Of Cauliflower-Gobi :

Cauliflower is a very good source of vitamin C and manganese, which are both powerful antioxidants.

It contains glucosinolates and thiocyanates (including sulforaphane and isothiocyanate), which help to increase the liver’s ability to neutralize potentially toxic substances that could lead to cancer if left unattended.cauliflower-containing diets are good for cancer prevention.

regular cauliflower consumption can help decrease the risk of inflammation-mediated diseases such as arthritis, obesity, diabetes mellitus.

glucoraphin present in cauliflower appears to have a protective effect on your stomach lining. With glucoraphin, your stomach is not prone to the bacterium helicobacter pylori, thereby reducing your risk for stomach ulcer and cancer.

cauliflower consumption is protective against cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases.

Cauliflower also contains antioxidants. Antioxidants by themselves have many benefits – they act as an anti inflammatory agent and they help build a health immune system

Cauliflower is rich in folate and also vitamins like vitamin A and vitamin B, it helps in growth of cells.

Cauliflower also contains calcium which has numerous benefits. Calcium helps to make our bones and teeth strong along with many other important functions like transmission of nerve impulses.

Cauliflower also helps us to lose weight. Cauliflower is also a good source of vitamin C, which is a key element to burn fat. And it also contains folates which again help in weight loss.

To boost vitamin K content in your system, increase the cauliflower content in your daily diet. Vitamin k plays a key role in development of bones as it helps in development of bone cells.

Ref. Health benefits: http://www.yadtek.com/health-benefits-of-cauliflower-gobi-puvvu/

Potato Raita

~ saanjhachullha ~ 1 Comment

Aloo Raita 3  Potatoes pic

Hi friends!Here is a simple,delicious and very healthy recipe of an Indian side dish of yogurt containing boiled potatoes and spices.

Whisked curd with tiny pieces of boiled potato and flavored with spices make a delicious side dish with the main course.

Ingredients:

  • 3 cups Curd/Dahi /yogurt
  • 2 potatoes medium size, boiled peeled and cut into tiny cubes
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds , roasted and powdered
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper powder
  • 1/4 tsp red chili powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt or /salt to taste
  • 1/4 tsp kala namak/ black salt
  • 1/2 tsp sugar
  • 1 tsp dry mint powder

Method:

Step 1.

In a pressure cooker, put the potatoes with two cups of water, close the lid and place the cooker on full flame. The moment pressure is formed reduce to low flame, cook for three minutes. Switch off the heat and allow the cooker to cool to room temperature.

Step 2.

Peel the potatoes,cut the potatoes in to tiny cubes, keep aside.

Step 3.

Whisk the Curd/ yogurt till smooth. Add salt, sugar,pepper, red chili,cumin powder, kala namak, dry mint leaves powder and mix well. Fold in the potato cubes .

Step 4.

Transfer into a serving bowl and garnish with the little roasted cumin and red chili powder. Refrigerate the raita till served.Serve  Aloo raita cold with the main course.

Health benefits of Aaloo /Potato:

Contrary to the popular belief that potatoes should be avoided because they are rich in starch, medical reports today claim that potatoes should be consumed as they help in enriching the body with essential nutrients. Potatoes are rich in phytochemicals which help in fighting against respiratory diseases, cardiovascular ailments and several types of cancer.

People suffering from high blood pressure should consume potatoes. Potato contains a compound known as kukoamine which helps in lowering blood pressure.

Potato is rich in vitamin B6 which aids in building and repairing body cells. This vitamin leads to the production of enzymes in the body, which in turn leads to chemical reactions which cause cell repairs. Apart from repairing of human body and brain cells, this nutrient is responsible for the production of the molecule amine in the human body, which helps in transmissions between different nerves of the human nervous system.

Potatoes are highly effective in relieving high blood pressure caused due to tension, indigestion, nature of food and several other reasons. The fiber content is known for lowering cholesterol and improving the functioning of insulin in the body, thereby lowering blood pressure.

The fiber content of potato helps in lowering plasma cholesterol and triglyceride concentration in the human body.

Potato contains large quantities of starch which helps to improve insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance.

Potatoes make an ideal food for people who are lean and thin. With mounds of carbohydrates and proteins, they help in promoting weight gain.

Easy to digest, potatoes help in facilitating the digestion process, especially for people who cannot digest hard food but require energy, such as patients and babies.

Potatoes have vitamin C, vitamin B-complex, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus and zinc in significant amounts which are beneficial for the skin. They are great for curing pimples, spots, burns and even help in softening and cleaning the skin, particularly around elbows, back of the palms, and so on.

The vitamin C content in potatoes is helpful for preventing the dreaded deficiency disease scurvy and its symptoms, like cracked lip corners, spongy and bleeding gums, and frequent viral infections.

Potatoes have essential nutrients that help in providing relief to rheumatism due to the high starch or carbohydrate content that increases weight and reverses the effects of this disorder.

Ref.http://nutrition.indobase.com/articles/potato-nutrition.php

Curd Health benefits:

Being rich in calcium, curd is good for the health of bones as well as the teeth. For those who have difficulty in the digestion of lactose in milk, yogurt is an important source of calcium. Curd contains an enzyme which breaks down lactose to aid proper digestion.

Curd / Yogurt is rich in vitamin D which helps our body to absorb and use calcium.

Curd / Yogurt helps you feel fuller and is thus, a very good snack for those trying to lose weight.

Eating  curd / yogurt on a regular basis can help absorb the nutrients in other foods as well.

Ref. http://www.thehealthsite.com/fitness/9-reasons-curd-is-great-for-your-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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Baigan/Eggplant/Aubergine Raita

~ saanjhachullha ~ 1 Comment

Baigan Raita 2   brinjal pic
Baigan is also known as Brinjal or eggplant or Aubergine Raita

Hi friends! Here is a simple,delicious and very healthy recipe of an Indian side dish of yogurt containing roasted and mashed brinjal /baigan/egg plant and spices.

 

Ingredients:

1 medium sized brinjal/Baingan / Eggplant
2 cups Curd/ yoghurt /Dahi
1/2 tsp cumin/Jeera roasted, ground
1/2 tsp salt or / salt to taste
1/4 tsp black pepper /Kali mirch
1/4 tsp red chili powder
1 tbsp coriander/ Dhaniya/ Cilantro, fresh leaves finely chopped
1 tsp lemon juice
Method:

Step 1.

Wash well the baigan /eggplant /aubergine with water. Dry with a kitchen napkin. Apply some oil on the baigan and keep it for roasting on an open flame. Keep it turning on the fire after couple of minutes such that the baigan gets roasted on all sides completely. When soft and well roasted from all sides, remove from fire & soak in cold water for peeling the skin.

Step 2.

Peel the skin of the roasted baigan. Keep it on the chopping board. Cut the stem of the baigan. Mash the roasted brinjal with a fork. keep aside.

Step 3.

When the baigan is getting roasted, take the Curd/Dahi/yogurt in a mixing bowl, whisk it to a smooth texture.

Step 4.

Add finely chopped fresh coriander leaves, salt, cumin, pepper, red chili powder and lemon juice to the whisked curd, mix it well.

Step 5.

Now, in the spiced curd / yogurt , gently fold in the roasted and mashed baigan/ brinjal/ eggplant /aubergine ,blend well.

Step 6.

Refrigerate Baigan Raita till use. Serve cold with Rice dihes, all Indian breads.

Health bebefits of Brinjal or baigan :

Brinjal or baigan as it is called in India, is a vegetable that is extremely high on nutrients and has many health benefits which makes it something you should try and eat at least once every week. A lot of people don’t like the taste, but if you cook it well, it can be extremely delicious too. Brinjals are great for weight loss as they are low in calories with 100g of the vegetable containing just 25 calories. It is also rich in fiber which helps in eating a small serving which makes you feel full and prevent you from overeating.

Ref.http://www.thehealthsite.com/fitness/health-benefits-of-brinjal-baingan

 Health benefits Curd:

Being rich in calcium, curd is good for the health of bones as well as the teeth. For those who have difficulty in the digestion of lactose in milk, yogurt is an important source of calcium. Curd contains an enzyme which breaks down lactose to aid proper digestion.

Curd / Yogurt is rich in vitamin D which helps our body to absorb and use calcium.

Curd / Yogurt helps you feel fuller and is thus, a very good snack for those trying to lose weight.

Eating  curd / yogurt on a regular basis can help absorb the nutrients in other foods as well.

Ref. http://www.thehealthsite.com/fitness/9-reasons-curd-is-great-for-your-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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Palak/Spinach Raita

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Spinach leaves   Palak Raita 1

Palak / Spinach Raita

Hi friends! Here is a simple,delicious and very healthy recipe of an Indian side dish of yogurt containing steamed Spinach leaves and spices.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups Spinach / Palak, finely chopped and pureed
  • 3 cups Curd / Yogurt /Dahi
  • 2 Green chillies
  • 1 tsp Ginger, grated finely
  • 1/2 tsp cumin / Jeera roasted and powdered
  • 2/3 level tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black salt

 Method:

Step 1.

Put the chopped Spinach / Palak in a pressure cooker, add 1/4 cup of water, close the lid and put on a high flame. The moment pressure is formed switch off the heat. Let the cooker cool to room temperature.

Step 2.

Take spinach from the cooker put in the blender, add two green chilies, one tea spoon grated fresh ginger, puree the mixture to a fine paste ,keep it aside.

Step 3.

Take Curd /yogurt / Dahi in a bowl and whisk it well to a smooth texture.

Step 4.

Add salt,black salt, cumin, to the whisked curd and mix well. Keep it aside.

Step 5.

Take the pureed spinach add it to the spiced and whisked curd. Mix well, refrigerate. Serve cold with all Indian breads, boiled rice or rice biryani etc.

Health benefits of Spinach / Palak:

Spinach is an excellent food loaded with tons of nutrients and a low calorie package. Greens like spinach are important for skin and hair, bone health, and provide protein, iron, vitamins and minerals.

As per studies the possible health benefits of consuming spinach include improving blood glucose control in diabetics, lowering the risk of cancer, lowering blood pressure, improving bone health, lowering the risk of developing asthma and more.

Ref. http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/270609.php

Curd Health benefits:

Being rich in calcium, curd is good for the health of bones as well as the teeth. For those who have difficulty in the digestion of lactose in milk, yogurt is an important source of calcium. Curd contains an enzyme which breaks down lactose to aid proper digestion.

Curd / Yogurt is rich in vitamin D which helps our body to absorb and use calcium.

Curd / Yogurt helps you feel fuller and is thus, a very good snack for those trying to lose weight.

Eating  curd / yogurt on a regular basis can help absorb the nutrients in other foods as well.

Ref.http://www.thehealthsite.com/fitness/9-reasons-curd-is-great-for-your-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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Yummy Lauki / bottle gourd

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Ghiya Malai

Yummy lauki / ghiya/ bottle gourd Ki Sabzi

Hi friends ! Bottle gourd, also called lauki / Ghiya or /doodhi, is a vegetable that is probably known in India for its delicious preparations. Here is a simple, easy to cook and delicious recipe of lauki / ghiya/ bottle gourd / Doodhi . You will try it once, it will remain on your party menu for ever!

Recipe Servings: 4

Recipe Cook Time : 30 minutes

Level: Easy

Course : Main, Vegetable dish

Cuisine : Indian , North Indian

Ingredients:

  • 500 gms lauki / ghiya/ bottle gourd, peeled and cut into small pieces
  • 1 tsp jeera /cumin seeds
  • 1/2 cup milk cream
  • 1/2 tsp Black pepper, freshly ground
  • 1/2 level tsp salt or/ salt to taste
  • 2 tbsp cashew nuts, roasted and ground
  • 2 green chilies, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp coriander leaves fresh /hara dhania finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil

 Method:

 Step 1.

 Heat the oil in a wok / kadahi and add the jeera, when jeera begins to splutter, add the cut Lauki pieces , salt and stir continuously over high flame, till the Lauki cubes looks a bit glossy.

Step 2.

Cover and cook on low flame till lauki is tender, stirring in between a few times.

 Step 3.

Add the cream, ground cashew nuts mix well and cook for two minutes more, till well blended. Serve hot garnished with, black pepper powder, chopped green chilies, coriander leaves with any Indian bread of choice!

Health benefits of Lauki /Ghiya /Bottle gourd:

In fact, traditional healers recommended consumption of this bottle gourd to treat various conditions. Here are some of its benefits you must know.

Aids digestion: People suffering from constipation should eat bottle gourd as it is high in fibre and helps clear the food stuck in your colon. Additionally, juice made out of bottle gourd also helps in the treatment of acidity as it is alkaline in nature [1].

Great for weight loss :Bottle gourd is one of the best foods you can have if you want to lose weight as it is 96% water, and a 100g serving contains as little as 12 calories. The high fibre content will take care of your hunger, and keep you feeling full.

Helps treat urinary disorders: Bottle gourd has a cooling effect on your body, and a glass of bottle gourd juice is a great diuretic that can be used to treat burning sensation while passing urine. This burning sensation is caused due to high levels of acid in the urine, which can be countered by the alkaline nature of bottle gourd juice.

Refreshes you during summers: Just like cucumber, bottle gourd too has a high amount of water which keeps you hydrated during summers. Drinking a glass of its juice will ensure that you do not face loss of sodium, fatigue or extreme thirst while you are out in the sun. This makes it great for people whose jobs require them to travel in daylight.

Prevents heart disease: Unhealthy lifestyles are leading to several cases of heart disease in urban India. So much so that, 70% of the urban population is at risk of heart disease due to wrong lifestyle choices like eating fried and processed foods, smoking, etc. Like a lot of fruits and vegetables, bottle gourd has zero cholesterol and is rich in vitamins like vitamin C and antioxidants making it good for your heart [3].

Reduces stress: It is quite easy to feel stressed in today’s times, and unhealthy eating can only worsen the situation. Bottle gourd has a high water content has a cooling effect on your body which makes you feel better the very moment you take it. It also has diuretic, sedative and antibilious properties which makes your body feel better internally, and keeps stress at bay.

Warning: Even though, bottle gourd is really good for your health, it can sometimes be bad. Bottle gourd juice that tastes bitter can seriously damage your digestive health according to a study published in Indian Journal of Gastroenterology in 2011.

Ref. http://www.thehealthsite.com/fitness/health-benefits-lauki-dudhi-bottle-gourds-sa114/

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.

Lehsuni Moong Dal

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Moong dal Lehsunwali 1

husked Green gram  with garlic

Hi friends! Yellow moong dal is extremely light and easy to digest. It is easier to cook. Moong dal is used for making soups, stews and purees.

 Preparation Time : 10-15 minutes

Cooking time : 5-8 minutes

Servings : 6

Cuisine: North Indian

Course: Dals / lentils

Level Of Cooking: Easy

Ingredients

  • 1 cup husked green gram dal /dhuli moong dal
  • 1 medium size Onion ,finely chopped
  • 12 pods of garlic / lehsun (finely past)
  • 1 “piece Ginger/ adrak, finely grated
  • 1/ 2 tsp Mustard seeds
  • 1 sprig of curry leaves
  • 1/4 tsp Asafetida
  • 1/2 tsp Turmeric
  • 1/2 tsp Red chili powder
  • 1 level tsp Salt / or Salt to taste
  • 500 ml water
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil/ pure ghee

Method :

Step 1.

Wash well and soak the Moong dal in three glasses of water , keep aside.

Step 2.

Heat oil/ ghee in the pressure cooker, add asafetida, when turns pink, add mustard seeds, starts to splutters add curry leaves. Fry for few seconds (do not let it turn dark brown) .

Step 3.

Add the moong dal with three glasses of water to this seasoning. Add salt, turmeric powder, chili powder and grated ginger to it. Close the lid of the pressure cooker and cook till the full pressure is formed ( after the first whistle, switch of the heat), let it cool.

Step 4.

Heat ghee (clarified butter) in a thick bottom pan, fry onions till golden, put ginger and garlic paste, fry for a few minutes.

Step 5.

Add this seasoning to the dal and mix well.

Step 6.

Serve hot with boiled rice, pulaows or geera rice and all the Indian breads.

Note: Moong dal is cooked in many different ways in India. This recipe with the goodness of garlic/ lehsun is very simple, delicious and with a garlic flavor.

Possible health benefits of Moong dal:

  • Pulses are low in fat & cholesterol, high in dietary fiber and rich in protein, making them an excellent heart healthy food choice with established health benefits.
  • It is used for making the legendary dal tadka and dal fry.
  • It is eaten on a regular basis in every indian household in combination with rice and vegetables. Moong dal is a dieter-friendly dal rich in iron and potassium. Iron helps maintain haemoglobin levels and potassium helps reduce blood pressure, a boon for hypertensive people.
  • It is extremely light and can be easily eaten when you fall ill and even by pregnant women.

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.

Coriander Chutney

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Coriander Chutney NG 1

Hi friends! Very delicious and easy coriander chutney that goes well with stuffed parothas or snacks or can be used as spread . Try to make Coriander chutney with onions following this easy recipe.

Total time: 10 minutes

Recipe type: sides

Making time: 2 minutes

Cuisine: North Indian

Serves: 6-8

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cup tightly packed, coriander leaves/dhania, finely chopped
  • 1 medium size onion, finely chopped
  • 3 green chilis, chopped
  • 1 small marble size tamarind / Imali, seeded
  • 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 tamarind. Put all these ingredients along with salt and 1/4 cup of water in a grinder.

Step 3.

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 basic. It goes very well with all Indian snacks and sandwitches.It can be stored for 8-10 days in the refrigerator.

Health Benefits of Coriander:

•Cilantro is also used to prevent and treat infections caused by bacteria and fungus.
•Cilantro is rich in minerals that may be valuable in maintaining overall health. Cilantro leaves  are rich in calcium, potassium, manganese, magnesium and iron. Research has shown that low potassium is associated with a risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, arthritis, cancer, digestive disorders, and infertility. While iron is essential for red blood cell production. Calcium and manganese is essential in treating and preventing weak bones (osteoporosis) and can help reduce spinal bone loss in older women.
•Cilantro seed oil has a reputation in many traditional medicines as an anti-inflammatory agent, an analgesic, anti-diabetic, anti-spasmodic, carminative, digestive, fungicidal, and has cholesterol-lowering effects. These health benefits are due to the abundance of phytonutrients found in Cilantro’s volatile oils, these include carvone, geraniol, limonene, borneol, camphor, elemol, and linalool.
•Cilantro is also rich in flavonoids that are considered antioxidants, these include quercitin, kaempferol, rhamnetin, and epigenin. Cilantro also contains active phenolic acid compounds, including caffeic and chlorogenic acid.
•Cilantro contains natural antibacterial compound called dodecenal that is safe and effective against Salmonella, a deadly bacteria that is the cause of foodborne illness.
•Cilantro leaves have sufficient antioxidants, phytonutrients and fibers that actually help in maintaining good level of HDL – known as good cholesterol while reducing the LDL level. – the bad cholesterol.
•Cilantro is also beneficial in maintaining good skin and mucus membrane because it is rich in folic-acid, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin-A, beta carotene and vitamin-C.  The rich vitamin A is important in protecting the vision, lungs and other vital organs.
 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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Bhatura

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Bhature 1

Bhatura is a variety of Indian bread , popular all over India. This fried bread has a delicious combination with flavored chickpea / chole curry . This recipe has no yeast in its making, instead yogurt and baking powder is used. Serve bhatura with Chole, Bundi Raita which is lightly sprinkled with spices. Chole Bhature is an Indian breakfast dish.

Prep time: 20 minutes

Cook time: 20 minutes

Yield: 10

Ingredients

  • 3 cups Maida / all purpose flour
  • 2 cups Semolina / Sooji
  • 1 cups Curd/yogurt
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 2 tsp Sugar
  • 1 tsp Baking powder
  • 2 tbsp of Oil for dough making
  • 1 tbsp Oil for coating kneaded dough
  • Water to knead the dough
  • Oil – for deep frying

Method

Step 1.

In a mixing bowl with a sieve, sift the all purpose flour, baking powder.Dissolve salt and sugar in yogurt. To the sifted flour add  semolina and two tablespoons of oil and mix well.

Step 2.

Dissolve salt and sugar in yogurt.Add this  yogurt to the flour. Knead the flour into a soft yet firm dough by gradually adding water to it.

Step 3.

Cover the dough with a wet cloth and keep for an hour.

Step 4.

Make lemon sized 10 small balls from the dough. Grease your palms with a little oil and press each ball flat. Cover and keep to ferment for 15 minutes.

Step 5.

Roll each ball into thick flat round shape (about 5″ to 6″ diameter). It should not be too thick or too thin. Heat oil in a kadai/wok and slide the batura into the hot oil slowly.

Step 6.

Deep fry the bhaturas on medium heat. Using the back of the frying spoon, press in the center of the bhatura and along the edges gently, it will puff up nicely. Flip over and fry the other side till light golden brown.

Step 7.

Drain on absorbent paper kitchen towel. Serve hot with chole/ white Chick peas curry.

 Note:

The oil should be moderately hot before frying the bhatura.

Puris/Indian fried bread

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Puri Puris  with Aloo   Puri aloo

 

Hi friends! Puris are perhaps one of the most well-known and delicious breads of Indian cuisine. It can be served as a snack or a meal depending on the accompanying items. However, it is important to know the right way of making puris, so that they come out nice and fluffy and without too much oil. Serve hot and crisp puris with a hot side-dish or just curds and pickle; it’ll be a winner all the way!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Makes 20 -24 puris

Ingredients:

  • 300 gms whole wheat flour / atta
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 cup water
  • oil for deep-frying

Method :

Step 1.

In a bowl, mix together whole wheat flour, Olive oil and salt, using fingers, till it resembles bread crumbs.

 Step 2.

Slowly add about a cup of water, just enough to form a firm/ stiff dough and knead till smooth. keep aside for 10 to 15 minutes.

Step 3.

Divide the dough into small lemon size equal portions, and roll out into 3″ rounds on an oiled board.

Step 4.

 Heat the oil for deep frying, in a wok or kadhai, fry the puri one at a time, holding them under the oil on the first side until they puff. Turn and deep-fry the puris till they turn light golden brown in colour from both the sides.

Step 5.

Drain on absorbent paper kitchen towel lined plate, so that puris are dry without excessive oil.

Step 6.

Serve hot, goes very well with Vegetable, potato stews / aloo bhaji etc.

Note: Add a little salt to the oil to keep it from smoking.Always add the puri to the oil as soon as they’re made. Rolled and kept puris, tend to become a little dry and sometimes do not puff up properly.

Health benefits of puris:

The deep frying is a two step process. The immersion in hot oil creates the crispy crust outside while the inside is actually steamed by the evaporation of moisture.

A poori, for instance, is cooked on the surface. Because it is surface frying, the absorption of oil is much less than we think. It absorbs much less oil than any other western food that goes into a deep fat fryer.

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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Tamarind chutney

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Tamarind chutney.JPGTamarind / Imli Saunth /chutney

Hi friends! This unusual sweet and sour chutney is the authentic sweet and tangy Tamarind Chutney/saunth with soaked tamarind / imli blended with spices.

Preparation Time : 30-45 minutes

Cooking time : 25-30 minutes

Servings : 4

Ingredients:

  • 200 gms tamarind /Imali seeded
  • 300 gms jaggery / Gur broken into small pieces
  • 1 tsp Salt /or salt to taste
  • 1 tsp black Rock Salt / Kala Namak (black Rock Salt powdered),
  • 1 tsp Sounth / ginger powder
  • ¼ tsp Black pepper powder / Kali mirch powder
  • ¼ tsp Red Chili powder
  • 2 tsp  Roasted cumin /Jeera Powder
  • 2 tbsp dry dates, cut into small pieces
  • 1 tbsp kishmish
  • 4 1/2  – 5 cups water

Method:

Step 1.

Soak the tamarind in four cups of water for two- three hours. Mash well and then strain into a pulp. Keep aside.

Step 2.

Add water to the tamarind pulp to thin it down to a pouring consistency.

Step 3.

Add the jaggery / Gur, table salt, black salt, Sounth / ginger powder, Black pepper powder, Red Chili powder, roasted cumin /Jeera Powder  dry dates, and kishmish.

Step 4.

Cook  on medium flame till jaggery dissolves completely and the chutney gets little thick(not too thick).

Step 5.

Turn off flame and allow it to cool at room temperature.

Step 6.

Transfer prepared sweet and sour tamarind chutney to airtight container and store in refrigerator for up to one month for anytime use.

Note:  This Chutney thickens more on cooling so check for consistency while cooking. Tamarind chutney (Imali chutney/ saunth), a delicious sweet and sour  sauce, goes very well with almost all Indian snacks. It is a must have chutney / sauce for making delicious pani puri and bhel puri.

Health Benefits of Tamarind:

Digestive Health: Tamarind has long been considered a natural laxative, and its dietary fiber content probably has something to do with it. Eating tamarind as a fruit or as a spice can increase the efficiency of your digestive system, while the fiber can bulk up your stool, making it move through the smooth muscles of the intestinal tract easier.

Heart Health:  The fiber content in tamarind certainly has something to do with the reduction in cholesterol, since it is known to scrap excess LDL cholesterol from the veins and arteries. The potassium in tamarind may be responsible for the reduction in blood pressure, since it is known as a vasodilator that reduces the stress on the cardiovascular system. The impressive level of vitamin C in tamarind also may have something to do with it as well, since vitamin C is an antioxidant compound that can reduce the impact of free radicals, those pesky byproducts of cellular metabolism that have been linked to heart disease and a number of other health conditions.

Circulation: Tamarind is a very good source of iron, and a single serving can provide more than 10% of your daily requirement. A healthy supply of iron in the body guarantees the proper red blood cell count in the body, which can ensure appropriate oxygenation of different muscles and organs that need oxygen to function properly.

Nerve Function: One of the most significant vitamin elements of tamarind is the B complex. Thiamine, one of the most important parts of that vitamin family, is found in high quantities within tamarind. Thiamine is responsible for improving nerve function, as well as muscle development, which can help you remain active, maintain your reflexive, and stay strong.

Weight Loss: One of the unique compounds that can be extracted from tamarinds or gained as a benefit from it when used as a spice is called hydroxycitric acid (HCA). HCA is connected to weight loss because it has been shown to inhibit an enzyme in the body that specifically helps store fat.

Manage Diabetes: Along with its ability to stop weight gain, inhibiting that enzyme, alpha-amylase mainly stops carbohydrates from being absorbed, which are easily converted to simple sugars or fats.

Anti-Inflammatory Capacity: The essential oils of tamarind have been connected to a number of anti-inflammatory abilities, including the reduction of joint pain and inflammation, arthritis, rheumatic conditions, and gout.

Immune System: High levels of vitamin C, as well as other antioxidant effects in the essential oils make tamarind a wonderful way to boost your immune system and ensure long-term health from microbial and fungal infections. It also reduces the occurrence of parasites in the body due to its antiseptic and antimicrobial effects. It has specifically been linked to eliminating stomach worms in children in tropical areas where tamarind in cultivated.

A Few Words of Caution: The main concern is that tamarind lowers blood pressure and is a blood thinner, so it can be difficult to reduce bleeding in case something happens. If you are taking aspirin or other blood thinners, be careful if you ingest an excessive amount of tamarind.

Ref.https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/herbs-and-spices/tamarind.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.

 

Mango Yogurt

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Mango delight 3Mango Yogurt

Hi friends! Start off your day right with nutritious breakfasts made from yogurt / curd. Yogurt is packed with the nutrients (like calcium, phosphorus, riboflavin and B12) needed to get us through our morning without feeling hungry. Low-fat yogurt offers an ideal blend of protein and carbohydrates as part of a healthy breakfast. No Flame Cooking!

Recipe Cook Time: 6-7 minutes

Recipe Servings: 3-4

Ingredients:

  • 2 Sweet, ripe, firm Mangoes
  • 1/2 kg fresh curd / yogurt
  • 6 tbsp sugar
  • 2 tbsp Sliced / slivered Almonds (soaked overnight)*
  • 1/2 tbsp Chironji/ Charoli/ charonji
  • 1 tsp Green cardamom powder

Method:

Step 1.

Take curd / yogurt and sugar in a big mixing bowl, whisk curd gently to get a smooth texture of the curd.

Step 2.

Peel Mangoes, cut into small cubes and fold into the whisked curd. Add almonds, cardamom powder.

Step 3.

Serve chill.

Note :

* Almonds soaked overnight :Almonds are known for their immense health benefits, and one of the most well-known one is the fact that they help your memory. Packed with essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin E, zinc, calcium, magnesium and omega-3 fatty acids, almonds can do a world of good when it comes to your health. But in order to absorb all those nutrients, the almonds you eat, should be soaked in water overnight. This is because their brown, rough skin contains a certain enzyme inhibitor that is meant to protect the seed until it has the perfect conditions for germination. Our body cannot breakdown this enzyme-inhabiting compound, not only making the digestion of almonds difficult, but also restricting your body from absorbing its nutrients. Apart from that, soaking almonds also softens the seed, making it easy to chew and therefore digest.

Ref. Soaked Almonds: http://www.stylecraze.com/articles/benefits-of-soaked-almonds-for-skin-hair-and-health/

*Chironji/ Charoli/ charonji :

These seeds are used as a cooking spice primarily in India. Charoli/ charonji/ Chironji are tiny almond-flavored dried seeds of a evergreen tree called Buchanania lanzan, which is cultivated across India, primarily in the northwest. After the hard shell is cracked, the stubby seed within is as soft as a pine nut. The charoli seed is lentil-sized, is slightly flattened and has an almond-like flavour. Though they can be eaten and used raw they are often toasted or roasted before use, as this intensifies the flavour. Charoli seeds are cooling and are used to remove burning sensation from the body. The seeds also act as a tonic to the brain. Charoli seeds are relatively low in calories and are a good source of protein and fat (59 grams per 100 grams of charoli seeds). They contain good amounts of dietary fiber. Charoli provides you with vitamins like vitamin C, vitamin B1, vitamin B2 and niacin. Minerals like calcium, phosphorus and iron are also found in high amounts in these seeds.

Ref. Chironji: http://chefinyou.com/ingredients/what-is-charoli-nuts/

Health benefits of Mango fruit:

  • Mango fruit is rich in pre-biotic dietary fiber, vitamins, minerals, andpoly-phenolic flavonoidantioxidant compounds.
  • According to new research study, mango fruit has been found to protect from colon, breast, leukemia and prostate cancers. Several trial studies suggest thatpolyphenolic antioxidant compounds in mango are known to offer protection against breast and colon cancers.
  • Mango fruit is an excellent source ofVitamin-A and flavonoids like beta-carotene, alpha-carotene, and β-cryptoxanthin. 100 g of fresh fruit provides 765 IU or 25% of recommended daily levels of vitamin-A. Together; these compounds have been known to have antioxidant properties and are essential for vision. Vitamin-A also required for maintaining healthy mucosa and skin. Consumption of natural fruits rich in carotenes is known to protect from lung and oral cavity cancers.
  • Fresh mango is a good source of potassium. 100 g fruit provides 156 mg of potassium while just 2 mg of sodium. Potassium is an important component of cell and body fluids that helps controlling heart rate and blood pressure.
  • It is also an excellent source of vitamin-B6 (pyridoxine), vitamin-C and vitamin-E. Consumption of foods rich invitamin-C helps the body develop resistance against infectious agents and scavenge harmful oxygen-free radicals. Vitamin B-6 or pyridoxinerequired for GABA hormone production within the brain. It also controls homocysteine levels within the blood, which may otherwise be harmful to blood vessels resulting in coronary artery disease (CAD), and stroke.
  • Further, it composes moderate amounts ofcopper. Copper is a co-factor for many vital enzymes, including cytochrome c-oxidase and superoxide dismutase (other minerals function as co-factors for this enzyme are manganese and zinc). Copper also required for the production of red blood cells.
  • Additionally,mango peel is also rich in phytonutrients, such as the pigment antioxidants like carotenoids and polyphenols.

Ref. http://www.nutrition-and-you.com/mango-fruit.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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Mooli Paratha

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Muli parantha

 Mooli / Radish stuffed Parathas

Hi friends! For stuffed paranthas/Indian flat bread, the flour used is finely ground wholemeal flour/atta and the bread/parantha is shallow fried. Perhaps the most common stuffing for parathas is mashed, spiced potatoes /aloo ka parantha, vegetables, followed perhaps by dals /lentils.

Preparation Time : 15-20 minutes

Cooking time : 10-15 minutes

Cuisine : North Indian / Punjabi

Servings : 4

Ingredients :

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

Method :

Step 1

Take two cups 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 fifteen to twenty minutes.

Step 2

Wash, peel and grate the Radish in a bowl. Take a muslin cloth, put the grated radish on it and tightly twist the cloth to squeeze out all the juice. Keep the dry radish gratings in a mixing bowl.

Step 3

Add the grated radish, finely chopped coriander leaves , carom seeds, green chilies, cumin powder, red chili powder and salt . Mix all the ingredients well.

Step 4

Divide dough in medium-sized balls, roll out each ball into a medium thick chapatti using dry flour for dusting.

Step 5.

Put  two tablespoons of the radish mixture in the middle of the rolled chapatti and close from all sides. press on your palm.

Step 6.

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

Step 7.

Shallow fry both sides to golden brown , using a little ghee. Serve hot with a blob of butter. A bowl of curd / yogurt and fresh coriander chutney/ chili pickle is a good accompaniment.

Health Benefits of Mooli / Radish:

Radishes, popularly known as mooli in India, might not top the list of your favourite vegetables but when it comes to nutrition and health benefits they definitely secure a top rank among all other vegetables. Eat them raw or add them to your healthy vegetable recipe, these nutrition-loaded root vegetables have numerous benefits to offer. Here are top 10 benefits you’ll be surprised to know.

  1. Lowers cancer risk: Radish contains phytochemicals and anthocyanins that have anti-carcinogenic properties. Additionally, they have vitamin C that acts as a powerful antioxidant to prevent free radical damage to the DNA inside the cells, thus helping cancer prevention.
  2. Regulates blood pressure: Radish has anti-hypertensive properties that help regulate control high blood pressure. Radish is rich in potassium that helps maintain the sodium-potassium balance in the body, keeping blood pressure under control.
  3. Good for diabetics: Insulin, a hormone secreted by the pancreas is responsible in the absorption of glucose. Diabetics are either unable to absorb the insulin their body produces or unable to produce insulin at all. Because of this, they cannot eat sugary or starchy foods. High in fibre, and with a low glycemic index, diabetics can enjoy radish as it doesn’t cause blood sugar levels to rise.
  4. Beats cold and cough: If you’re prone to constant cough and cold, it might be a good idea to include radish in your diet. The vegetable has anti-congestive properties which helps in clearing the mucus formed in your throat. Additionally, radish also improves your immunity which keeps infections that lead to cold and cough at bay!
  5. Helps you recover from jaundice: Radish is powerful when it comes to eliminating toxins. This helps keep your liver and stomach in mint condition. What makes radish effective in controlling jaundice is that it helps regulate the amount of bilirubin in the blood and increases the oxygen supply within the body. This helps keep a check on the destruction of red blood cells caused by jaundice.
  6. Fights constipation: Most people will have battled constipation in their life and it is definitely not a pleasant condition to be in. Radish has a high fibre content which helps clear the food stuck in your colon. Additionally, it helps facilitate the secretion of digestive juices and bile which again is good for your digestive system.
  7. Helps with weight loss: Radish is extremely low in calories, and the fibre content in it promotes satiety. A single 100g serving of raw radish contains just 16 calories, radish can be a part of any weight loss diet.
  8. Good for asthma patients: Radish has anti congestive properties that make them extremely beneficial for asthmatic patients. It also fights allergies of the respiratory system and protects the respiratory linings against infections.
  9. Keeps the kidneys healthy: The natural diurectic property of radishes makes them extremely good for improving kidney health. They help elimination of toxins from the body, acting as a natural cleanser.

Ref. http://www.thehealthsite.com/fitness/health-benefits-of-radish/

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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Banana Yogurt

~ saanjhachullha ~ 1 Comment

banana Yogurt Delight 3bananas 1

Hi friends! Start off your day right with nutritious breakfasts made from bananas, yogurt / curd. Yogurt is packed with the nutrients (like calcium, phosphorus, riboflavin and B12) needed to get us through our morning without feeling hungry. Low-fat yogurt and bananas offers an ideal blend of nutrients, protein and carbohydrates as part of a healthy breakfast. No Flame Cooking!

Recipe Cook Time: 6-7 minutes

Recipe Servings: 3-4

Ingredients:

  • 4 Sweet, ripe, firm bananas
  • 1/2 kg fresh curd / yogurt
  • 6 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tbsp kishmish (raisins)
  • 1 tbsp Sliced dry coconut *
  • 1 tbsp chironji *

Method:

Step 1.

Take curd / yogurt and sugar in a big mixing bowl, whisk curd gently to get a smooth texture of the curd.

Step 2.

Peel bananas, cut into thick slices and fold into the whisked curd. Add Kishmish, chironji,sliced dry coconut.

Step 3.

Serve chill.

Note :

* Sliced dry coconut:
Slice dry coconut using a sharp knife by cutting vertically across the cutting board. Thinly slice them. These can be used as a garnish for other desserts like custards, puddings etc.

*Chironji/ Charoli/ charonji :

These seeds are used as a cooking spice primarily in India. Charoli/ charonji/ Chironji are tiny almond-flavored dried seeds of a evergreen tree called Buchanania lanzan, which is cultivated across India, primarily in the northwest. After the hard shell is cracked, the stubby seed within is as soft as a pine nut. The charoli seed is lentil-sized, is slightly flattened and has an almond-like flavour. Though they can be eaten and used raw they are often toasted or roasted before use, as this intensifies the flavour. Charoli seeds are cooling and are used to remove burning sensation from the body. The seeds also act as a tonic to the brain. Charoli seeds are relatively low in calories and are a good source of protein and fat (59 grams per 100 grams of charoli seeds). They contain good amounts of dietary fiber. Charoli provides you with vitamins like vitamin C, vitamin B1, vitamin B2 and niacin. Minerals like calcium, phosphorus and iron are also found in high amounts in these seeds.

Ref. Chironji: http://chefinyou.com/ingredients/what-is-charoli-nuts/

Health Benefits of Banana:

A look into the nutritional breakdown of bananas and it reveals the following: per 100 grams, it contains 0.3 gm total fat, zero cholesterol, 1 mg salt, about 360 mg potassium, 2.6 gm dietary fiber, 12 gm sugar and 1.1 gm protein. If you still need reasons as to why you must include bananas in your diet, here are some –

  1. High Fiber Content

Banana is loaded with fiber, both soluble and insoluble. The soluble fiber has the tendency to slow down digestion and keep you feeling full for a longer time. Which is why bananas are often included in a breakfast meal so that you can start about your day without having to worry about the next meal.

  1. Heart Health

High fiber foods are said to be good for the heart. According to a study done by University of Leeds in UK, increasing consumption of fiber-rich foods such as bananas can lower risk of both cardiovascular disease (CVD) and coronary heart disease (CHD).

  1. Ease in Digestion

According to Ayurveda, banana has a sweet and sour taste. The sweet taste is said to bring about a sense of heaviness but the sour taste is known to stimulate agni (the digestive juices), thereby supporting digestion and helping in building up metabolism.

  1. Powerhouse of Nutrients

Banana is a heavyweight when it comes to nutrition. It is loaded with essential vitaminsand minerals such as potassium, calcium, manganese, magnesium, iron, folate, niacin, riboflavin, and B6. These all contribute to the proper functioning of the body and keeping you healthy.

  1. High Source of Potassium

The high content of potassium in bananas makes it a super fruit. This mineral is known for its numerous health benefiting properties – it helps in regulating heartbeat, blood pressure, and keeps the brain alert.

  1. Blood Pressure

It is a known fact that salt is the evil when it comes to high blood pressure. Bananas have low salt content and high potassium content, and these properties contribute to making it ideal for those undergoing this condition.

  1. Helps Fight Anaemia

Due to the high iron content in bananas, they are good for those suffering from anaemia. Anaemia is a condition where there is a decrease in the number of red blood cells or haemoglobin in the blood. This leads to fatigue, shortness of breath, and paleness.

Ref.http://food.ndtv.com/food-drinks/benefits-of-banana-how-to-include-the-fruit-in-your-daily-diet-1216006

Here’s how curd helps you stay healthy:

  • Helps improve digestion. …
  • Healthy for your heart. …
  • Great for those who are lactose intolerant. …
  • Helps boost immunity. …
  • Good for your teeth and bones. …
  • Can be used as a skincare product. …
  • Helps get rid of dandruff. …
  • Helps release stress and anxiety.

Ref. http://www.thehealthsite.com/fitness/9-reasons-curd-is-great-for-your-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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Cheese Kebabs

~ saanjhachullha ~ 1 Comment

Cheese Kebabs

Nutrients in Cheese

Cheese is produced throughout the world; it is an ancient food with origins that predate recorded history. It is a dairy product made from pressed milk curds. Different varieties are made from unripened (fresh) cheese or ripened (aged) cheese.

Cheese is a delicious and nutritious food that is very versatile. You can add it to other dishes or eat it by itself. It’s convenient and portable. There are more than 300 varieties of cheese—including American, Cheddar, Mozzarella and Colby—many of which are available in various flavors, forms (chunks, slices, cubes, shredded, grated, crumbled, sticks, spreads) and packages to meet consumers’ needs.

Hi friends!The Healthy Cheese Kebabs recipe makes a perfect appetizer to make for the cold winter parties or tea time snack for the monsoons. These Kebabs with bread slices are  flavored with garlic, gingers, green chillies and coriander leaves. The Kebabs are deep fried and you can use your Air frier making them healthy and super delicious as well.…

Ingredients:

  • 6 White Bread slices
  • 4 Cheese cubes (Amul)
  • 5-6 pods Garlic (finely ground to paste)
  • 2 Green chilies, ground to paste
  • 1” Ginger (finely grated)
  • 1 tbsp coriander leaves, finely chopped
  • 1 level tsp Salt / or salt to taste
  • Cooking Oil for deep frying

Method:

 Step 1.

 Soak bread slices in water until completely moist. Hold the moist bread slices in the palm of your hand and thoroughly drain all the water out. Keep aside.

Step 2.

Grate the cheese and ginger. Mash the bread in a mixing dish.

Step 3.

 Add grated cheese, garlic paste, grated ginger, green chili paste, coriander leaves and salt, mix well. Knead like a dough gently.

Step 4.

Make small balls out of the mixture, press them between your palms gently, deep fry in hot oil on medium flame. Drain on a paper kitchen towel.

Step 5.

Serve hot cheese kebabs with coriander chutney.

Note: Cheese quantity can be slightly increased or reduced as per individual’s taste while making these delicious kebabs.

Health Benefits of Cheese:

Cheese contains a host of nutrients like calcium, protein, phosphorus, zinc, vitamin A and vitamin B12. Calcium is one of the nutrients most likely to be lacking in the American diet. According to government statistics, nine out of 10 women and six out of 10 men fall short of calcium recommendations. The high-quality protein in cheese provides the body with essential building blocks for strong muscles. For a complete listing of the nutrients in cheese, see the table below.

If you are lactose intolerant, many cheeses, particularly aged cheeses such as Cheddar and Swiss, contain little or no lactose and are often well tolerated.

For the past 30 years or so, saturated fat—found in meats, eggs, cheese, butter, whole milk, lard and some oils—was considered a primary cause of heart disease. New research, however, is showing that saturated fat has a minimal impact on heart disease risk, which is changing the “saturated fat is bad” paradigm and allowing people to enjoy more cheese and other favorite foods. Further research is needed showing significant scientific agreement.

Even if saturated fat is less of a concern, calories still matter. To reduce calories, you can grate or sprinkle harder cheeses over your dishes or use small amounts of aromatic and sharp cheeses for their delicious cheese flavor. Many reduced-fat varieties of cheeses are also available. This 2014 article in the Food and Nutrition Magazine provides more information on the Charms and Challenges of Cheese.

The 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend that individuals ages 9 and older consume at least 3 servings of milk, cheese or yogurt each day; children aged 4-8 years need 2-1/2 cups per day. One serving of cheese is one and one-half ounces of hard cheese, one-third cup for grated cheese and two ounces for processed cheese.

Ref. http://www.healthyeating.org/Milk-Dairy/Nutrients-in-Milk-Cheese-Yogurt/Nutrients-in-Cheese.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.

Mango Lassi

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Mango lassi final4

Hi friends! Lassi is popular refreshing  and one of the most loved  drink of India, a tastier way to add the summer flavors to this traditional drink is the addition of yummy ripe mangoes. This is ideal for healthy skin and provides the goodness of mangoes along with the benefits of yogurt.

 Level of cooking: Easy

Total Time: 5 minutes

Prep Time: 4minutes

Cook Time: 1 minutes

Cuisine : Indian, North Indian, Punjabi

Course: Beverages

Serving : 2

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups Curd / yogurt
  • 1 cup ice cubes
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 4 tsp granulated sugar
  • a small pinch salt
  • 1  mango medium size, cut into cubes /or 1 cup canned mango slices

Method:

Step 1.

Wash the mango well, peel it and cut into small cubes.

Step 2.

Take a blender jar, put mango cubes, Curd, sugar and cardamom powder in the blender.

Step 3.

Close the lid and whip all the ingredients together till smooth. Serve Chilled.

Note: Adjust sugar quantities depending on the sweetness of the mango. Best Mango Lassi is made with mangoes without fiber.

Health benefits of Mango lassi:

  • Mango Lassi is sweet Indian-style, smoothie-like drink is a blend of fresh mango, tangy plain yogurt, and milk. Low-fat or fat-free milk and mango keep saturated fat in check while delivering healthful calcium, potassium, and vitamin D. Mango Lassi Stimulates weight loss
  • Mangoes are fat-free, cholesterol-free and salt-free. There is only 1% fat, 0% cholesterol and 0% sodium in 1 mango. Mangoes do not make you fat even if you eat them every day. For example, if you incorporate three mangoes (400 calories) as part of the calories you need each day, you will not gain weight.

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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Gobi/Cauliflower Pakodas

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Pakora Gobhi 3

Gobi/Cauliflower Pakodas

Hi friends ! You have probably heard that the most nutritious foods are the ones that are the most colorful. There are even several fad diets that tell you to avoid any white or colorless food, but don’t write off cauliflower and other white veggies just yet. Try out this easy tea time, healthy and delicious snack.

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium size Cauliflower , florets separated
  • 2 1/2 cups Besan /Chickpea/ Bengal gram flour
  • 1/2 cup rice flour
  • 1/2 tsp ajwain/ Carom seeds
  • 1/4 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp Red chili powder
  • 1 1/2 level tsp Salt/ or salt to taste
  • Water to prepare a thick batter
  • Oil, for deep frying

Method:

Step 1.

Wash the Cauliflower florets very well and soak in water with two table spoons of table salt for two hours at room temperature. (this is essential for disinfecting the florets of invisible bacteria.)

Step 2.

In a mixing bowl take Besan /Chickpea/ Bengal gram flour,rice flour , salt, ajwain / Carom seeds,  baking soda, and red chili powder.

Step 3.

Gradually add water to the besan/Chickpea/ Bengal gram, rice flour and spices mix to make a thick, yet flowing consistency batter.

Step 4.

Meanwhile heat oil in a kadai/ wok for deep frying.

Step 5.

Drop small portion of batter into the hot oil and if it comes to surface of the oil immediately, oil is ready for deep frying.

Step 6.

Take one floret at a time, dip in the batter nicely and gently slid in to the hot oil on medium flame. Put around 5-6 florets at a time. Do not over crowd the kadai / wok with pakodas. Flip them gently in between to let them fry evenly until they are 70 % fried.

Step 7.

Drain the partially fried pakodas onto a kitchen tissue and repeat the same process with the remaining florets to make all the pakodas.

Step 8.

When all the florets are partially fried, press each partially fried pakodas (one by one ) with the rolling pin, gently, and deep fry again to get well cooked, crisp pakodas.

Step 9.

Drain the fried pakodas on paper kitchen towel to drain out extra oil. Serve hot delicious pakodas with Green chutney /Tomato sauce and a cup of Indian masala tea to enjoy this tasty snack !

 

Possible health benefits of consuming cauliflower:

Cauliflower contains antioxidants and phytonutrients that can protect against cancer, fiber that helps with satiety, weight loss and a healthy digestive tract.

Consuming fruits and vegetables of all kinds has long been associated with a reduced risk of many adverse health conditions.

Many studies have suggested that increasing consumption of plant foods like cauliflower decreases the risk of obesity, diabetes, heart disease and overall mortality while promoting a healthy complexion, increased energy, and overall lower weight.

Cancer

Cauliflower contains antioxidants that help prevent cellular mutations and reduce oxidative stress from free radicals. One of these is indole-3-carbinol or I3C, commonly found in cruciferous vegetables like cabbages, broccoli and cauliflower/ I3C has been shown to reduce the risk of breast and reproductive cancers in men and women.

Digestion

Cauliflower is high in both fiber and water content, which helps to prevent constipation, maintain a healthy digestive tract and lower the risk of colon cancer. Adequate fiber promotes regularity, which is crucial for the daily excretion toxins through the bile and stool, but good digestion is far from all that fiber can do for your body.

 

Memory

Choline is a very important and versatile “vitamin-like factor” in cauliflower that helps with sleep, muscle movement, learning and memory. Choline also helps to maintain the structure of cellular membranes, aids in the transmission of nerve impulses, assists in the absorption of fat and reduces chronic inflammation.3

Strong bones

Low intakes of vitamin K have been associated with a higher risk for bone fracture and osteoporosis. Adequate vitamin K consumption improves bone health by acting as a modifier of bone matrix proteins, improving calcium absorption and reducing urinary excretion of calcium.

Ref.http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/282844.php

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-eyed beans salad

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Black-eyed beans/ Lobiya  salad is colorful and delicious salad, with freshly prepared dressing for a tangy flavor. This is a protein rich easy to make salad.

Serves: 6

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup black-eyed beans/ lobhia
  • 1 medium size boiled potato, peeled and cut into very small cubes
  • 1 green pepper / Simla mirch finely cut
  • 100 gms Paneer / Cottage cheese
  • 2 medium size tomatoes seeded and finely chopped , Slice the tomato vertically (from stem top to bottom) into four quarters. Use a sharp knife to carefully slice the seeds away from the tomato flesh. Discard the seeds.
  • 1 cucumber cut finely
  • 1 level tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp finely cut fresh mint leaves
  • 1 tbsp oil

for Salad Dressing:

  • 2 tbsp Virgin olive oil
  • 1 1/2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp cumin seed, roasted and powdered

Method:

Step 1.

Wash and soak the black-eyed beans/ lobiya over night.

Step 2.

Pressure cook the black-eyed beans/ lobiya with salt and water on full flame, as the pressure forms, reduce to low flame for twenty minutes. Switch off the stove, let it cool naturally. In a strainer, strain the lobiya and keep aside in a mixing bowl.

Step 3.

Take a kadhai / wok heat the oil on medium flame. Add boiled black-eyed beans, Paneer/ Cottage cheese and potatoes. Stir-fry for few minutes. Switch off the stove, cool the mixture to room temperature.

Step 4.

Add to fried black-eyed beans, paneer and potatoes, cut tomatoes , cucumber and green pepper, mix well.

Step 5.

Mix all the salad dressing ingredients together. Add the salad dressing to the salad and mix well.

Step 6.

Garnish with the finely cut fresh coriander/ dhaniya leaves, Serve with main course.

Possible Health benefits of black eyed beans:

As Black eyed beans/ Lobiya are fiber rich, they help in keeping the digestive system healthy. The beans have no cholesterol. Black eyed beans/ Lobiya are beneficial for heart as they contain the required fiber, necessary flavonoids and as they are low in calories and fat, make a good ingredient of a weight loss diet plan. This legume is rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants are known to fight free radical damage in the body and protect from cancer.

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.

 

 

Arbi / Colocasia Fry

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Arbi/taro roots / Colocasia

PREP TIME:15 MINS

COOK TIME:15 MINS

 TOTAL TIME:30 MINS

COURSE:SIDE DISH

CUISINE:NORTH INDIAN

Ingredients:

  • 500 gm arbi Colocasia
  • 3 medium size onions/ 1 1/2 cup , sliced thin lengthwise
  • 1/2 tsp ajwain/
  • 2 tsp coriander powder
  • 1/2 tsp red chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp roasted cumin powder
  • 1 tsp amchoor / dry mango powder
  • 2-3 tbsp oil
  • 1 level tsp Salt / or salt to taste
  • 1 tbsp fresh coriander leaves, finely chopped

Method:

Step 1.

Thoroughly washes the Arbi/taro roots / Colocasia, drain it.

Step 2.

With the peeler , peel  each Arbi/taro roots / Colocasia and cut in to four thick slices lengthwise. Keep aside.

Step 3.

Peel, wash and slice onions lengthwise and keep aside.

Step 4.

Heat oil in a heavy bottom kadhai/ wok / or frying pan. Put ajwain in the hot oil, wait for few seconds for it to splutter, add onion slices and fry till light golden. Add coriander powder, cumin powder, salt, red chili powder saute for few seconds. Add the Arbi/taro roots / Colocasia slices, cover and cook on a medium flame, till well cooked.

Step 5.

Mix in amcoor powder,and keep the kadhai/ wok / or frying pan on low flame. Cover and leave to blend the masalas for couple of minutes, so that Arbi/taro roots / Colocasia, gets quoted well with the dry spices/masalas.

Step 6.

Serve Arbi/taro roots / Colocasia hot, garnished with fresh coriander leaves as a side dish, with Indian breads like chapattis, parathas etc.

 

Note:

While peeling the Arbi/taro roots / Colocasia , apply some oil to your fingers and peel to avoid any skin allergy.

While frying the spice powders, do so at the lowest flame. If need be you can switch off the gas. The spice powders,especially chili powder tends to burn quickly on a high heat.

Stir-Fried Arbi/taro roots / Colocasia is mildly spiced , light and crunchy with taste of Indian spices.

Arbi/taro roots / Colocasia is a good accompaniment with all Dals/ lentils.

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.

 

Stuffed Capsicum

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capsicum-stuffed

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time : 15-20 minutes

Serves: 4

Level: Easy

Ingredients:

  • 2 Capsicums medium size
  • 150 gms Paneer /cottage cheese, grated
  • 2 medium size Onions, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp green coriander leaves, washed well and very finely chopped
  • 3  medium size Potatoes, boiled and mashed
  • 8 cashew nuts coarsely ground
  • 6-8 Kishmish
  • 1/2 tsp Red chili powder
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • 1/2 tsp cumin seed roasted and powder
  • 2/3 tsp Salt- to taste
  • 2 tbsp Oil (Olive oil/any cooking oil)

Method:

Step 1.

wash the capsicum well, remove the tops of the capsicums and slice them from the center into two equal halves ( we will get four pieces)

Step 2.

Take water in a deep pan, bring it to boil, put capsicum halves in it. Boil for 4-5 minutes when capsicum colour changes, strain and keep aside.

Step 3.

Heat the oil in a kadhai/ wok/ heavy bottom pan Sauté the onions lightly, add  grated paneer ,dry fruit, mashed potatoes mix well and fry for 5-6 minutes.

Step 4.

Add coriander powder, cumin powder, amchoor powder, salt and  mix all the ingredients well.Add salt and chili powder, cook on slow fire for few  more minutes, switch off the stove and cool the mixture. Add chopped green coriander leaves.

Step 5.

Stuff the capsicum halves with the mixture. Take a non stick pan and  put some oil, heat and place the stuffed capsicum halves in the pan.Cook on slow fire till capsicum is well cooked on all side.

Step 6.

Serve hot with all Indian breads.

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Vermicelli/Seviyan with Vegetables

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Sevian vegetables 3

Vermicelli/Seviyan with Vegetables

Hi friends! Make Seviyan / Vermicelli more healthy and delicious with mixed vegetables following this easy recipe.

Prep time: under 10 minutes
Cook time: under 20 minutes
Serves: 6-8

Ingredients:

  • 500 ml Water – for boiling Vermicelli
  • Bambino Vermicelli – 200 grams pkt
  • 1/2 cup beaten curd
  • 1/4 cup finally chopped French beans
  • 1/4 cup broccoli cut in to small florets
  • 1/4 cup frozen Peas
  • 1/4 cup finely cut carrots
  • 2 table sp Olive Oil

For the seasoning:

  • Mustard -1 tsp
  • 1 small sprig of Curry leaves
  • 2 tsp pre roasted Bengal gram dal

Method:

Step1.

Boil the water in a deep pan, put vermicelli in the boiling water.Let it boil for one minute only. Strain the vermicelli and leave in the strainer and keep aside.

Step 2.

Take all the chopped vegetables in the pressure cooker, add 1/4 cup water and a pinch of salt in the cooker. (After One whistle switch off the heat). Cool it, and keep the steamed vegetables aside.

Step 3.

Heat oil in a pan, add mustard seeds, when mustard seeds start spluttering, add curry leaves, fry the curry leaves for a few second, add roasted Bengal gram dal. Fry for few minutes more, switch off the heat.

Step 4.

In the above seasoning add boiled vermicelli and steamed vegetables, salt , whisked curd, mix well.

Serve hot with fresh coriander chutney or pickle of your choice.

Health Benefits of Frozen Mixed Vegetables:

Besides their convenience, mixed frozen vegetables are complementary — some vegetables add nutrients to the mix that others lack — giving you a wider variety of nutrients in the blend. The only nutrient you won’t get from mixed vegetables is vitamin B-12, because it’s found in animal products.

Fiber

Vegetables have soluble and insoluble fiber. Soluble fiber keeps blood sugar balanced by slowing absorption of carbohydrates. It also lowers cholesterol by carrying it out of the body. Insoluble fiber keeps food moving through the digestive tract, which prevents constipation and diverticular disease.

Healthy Eyes

The substances that give vegetables their color — carotenoids — provide nutrients for your eyes because they’re a form of vitamin A. Mixed vegetables contain several carotenoids: alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin. Alpha- and beta-carotene are converted into the form of vitamin A that is essential for vision. Lutein and zeaxanthin function as antioxidants. They’re the only carotenoids found in the retina, where they may help prevent age-related macular degeneration. One cup of boiled, mixed vegetables delivers more than 200 percent of the recommended daily intake of vitamin A.

Antioxidants

In addition to antioxidants that support your eyes, mixed vegetables have other antioxidants that fight free radicals. Free radicals are produced as a byproduct of essential biochemical processes. If they’re not neutralized by antioxidants, free radicals cause cellular damage that leads to illnesses, such as cardiovascular disease. The same portion of mixed vegetables has 30 percent of the recommended daily intake of manganese and 5 percent of the daily value of vitamins C and E. As a water-soluble antioxidant, vitamin C protects cells throughout the body. Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant, which gives it the ability to neutralize free radicals in lipids that have varied roles, such as providing cellular structure and transporting fats through the blood. Manganese has the job of protecting mitochondria, which are the structures inside cells that produce energy. Green peas are the highest source of vitamin C, while lima beans and carrots boost vitamin E. Lima beans also have at least double the manganese of other vegetables.

Strong Bones

Calcium and phosphorus combine to form the mineral that builds bones, called hydroxyapatite. Bones are continuously maintained through a process in which old or damaged bone is removed and rebuilt. You need a constant supply of these minerals throughout your life to keep your bones healthy and to prevent osteoporosis. You’ll gain 5 percent of the recommended daily intake of calcium and 13 percent of phosphorus from 1 cup of mixed vegetables. All of the vegetables have both minerals, but corn is low in calcium, while snap beans and carrots have less phosphorus than the others.

Preparation Tips

Combine mixed frozen vegetables with ground beef, onions and beef broth, and top them with mashed potatoes to make shepherd’s pie. Use them in a stir-fry with chicken and soy sauce or turn mixed vegetables into a casserole with the addition of onion, cheese and mayonnaise. Make a quick vegetable soup by adding a bag of mixed vegetables to beef broth and undrained, canned tomatoes. Alternatively, use them in a salad.

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.

Tori ki Sabji

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Tori

Tori ki Sabji

Main Name: Zucchini
Biological Name: Cucurbita pepo
Hindi Name: Tori, Turai
Names in other Indian languages: Peerkan kai (Tamil), Oru pachakkari (Malayalam), Beera Kaaya (Telugu), Turiya, Ghisoda (Gujarati), Jhinge, Jhinga (Bengali), Dodke, Shira?e (Marathi), Janhhi (Oriya), Turai (Urdu), Tori (Punjabi)

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cooking time: 45 minutes (slow fire cooking)

Cuisine : Indian, North Indian

Course: Main, Vegetables

Serves: 6

Ingredients:

  • 750 gms Tori/Turai/ Smooth or Sponge Gourd
  • 2 big size tomatoes ,chopped and pureed
  • 2 medium size Onions ,finely chopped
  • 1″ piece Ginger /adrak
  • 1/2 cup cream/ fresh malai
  • 1 level tsp Salt/ or salt to taste
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 level tsp chili powder or adjust to taste
  • 2 tsp Coriander / dhania powder
  • 1/4 tsp pepper powder
  • 1 tsp Cumin /geera
  • 2-3 tbsp Olive oil / or Pure ghee

Method:

 Step 1.

 Wash and peel the tories and cut them in small cubes. Keep aside.

Step 2.

Finely chop onions and puree tomatoes and keep aside.

Step 3.

 In a heavy bottom pan heat the oil, add cumin seeds, when cumin starts to splutter, add finely chopped onions in it.

Step 4.

Fry the onions till golden, add salt, chili powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder in it. Fry these spices for a minute.

 Step 5.

 Then add tori in it. Cover and cook till tori is soft, add tomato puree, grated ginger .

Step 6.

When tori, tomatoes are cooked and well blended (and 75% of water is evaporated) add malai / cream mix well, cook for couple of minutes more.

 Step 7.

Switch off the heat. Sprinkle it with pepper before serving. Serve hot.

Smooth or Sponge gourd:Tori crop

Health Benefits of Zucchini/Smooth or Sponge gourd:
  • Incredibly low in calories, zucchini makes a great way of filling your stomach without worrying about the calories being carried along with it. With just a couple of calories, you can include zucchini in your diet plan.
  • Regular consumption of cheesy, doughy foods with high sodium levels or other processed foods can leave your body yearning for water. With a high water concentration, vegetables like zucchini contribute to hydration, thereby fulfilling the body’s water requirement.
  • Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant which is required by the body to prevent health conditions, like scurvy and other illnesses, including heart conditions and certain types of cancers. Zucchini is a great source of vitamin C that helps in overcoming the deficiency of this vitamin.
  • Zucchini contains dietary fiber which lowers cholesterol by attaching itself to bile acids which are produced by the liver from the cholesterol. Since the fiber binds so well to the bile acid to instantly digest fat, the liver is induced to generate more bile acid.
  • The high levels of vitamins A and C present in zucchini keep the cholesterol from oxidizing in the body’s blood vessels, thereby delaying the onset of atherosclerosis.
  • Dietary fiber is known for promoting healthy and regular bowel movements, which help in preventing carcinogen toxins from settling in the colon. Zucchini has dietary fiber present in high amounts which avoids the risk of different kinds of cancers.
  • Studies indicate that zucchini contains phytonutrients which assist in reducing the symptoms of benign prostatic hypertrophy (BOH), a condition where the prostate gland enlarges, resulting in complications with urination and sexual functions in men.
  • With the presence of magnesium in considerate amounts, zucchini helps in lowering the risk of heart attack and strokes to a great extent. Besides, it also contains folate which is necessary for breaking down the amino acid homocysteine, which when increased, can lead to heart attack and stroke.
  • Zucchini is ideal for people suffering from asthma and other respiratory allergies as it increases one’s immunity due to the high vitamin C content. Furthermore, it also helps in controlling the symptoms of any autoimmune disorders which can lead to internal inflammation of organs.

Ref.http://recipeclout.india-server.com/zucchini.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.

Palak Paneer/ Spinach with Cottage cheese

~ saanjhachullha ~ 1 Comment

Palak paneer

Palak Paneer/ Spinach with Cottage chees

Hi friends! with nutritious spinach and cottage cheese, here is a yummy recipe for your party menu!

Preparation time: 20-25 minutes

Cooking time: 20-25 minutes

Servings : 4-6

Ingredients:

  • 200 gms paneer (fresh cottage cheese)
  • 750 gms spinach finely chopped
  • 3 onions (finely chopped)
  • 15 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • 2 green chillies (can be added more as per your taste)
  • 2 tablespoon cream (alternate: fresh malai)
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 2 tsp lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoon pure ghee or olive oil
  • 2/3 tsp level / or Salt to taste

Method:

 Step 1.

 Wash, remove the stems and cut spinach, pressure cook spinach with quarter cup water.The moment pressure is formed, switch off the stove. keep aside to cool.

Step 2.

 When cool, refresh in chilled water, blend spinach in a blender with the green chilies in, to a puree.

Step 3.

Cut the paneer into big cubes, take a nonstick pan and fry the paneer pieces lightly and keep aside.

Step 4.

Heat ghee or oil in a kadhai / wok or heavy bottom pan ,add cumin seeds. Add onion sauté until light golden brown, add garlic and sauté for half a minute. Add spinach puree, salt and when the curry comes to a boil, add the fried cubes of paneer/ cottage cheese and mix well. Cook for 3-5 minutes on low flame stirring frequently.

Step 5.

Stir in lemon juice. Finally add fresh cream.

Step 6.

 Cook for about five minutes on low flame. Serve hot with Chapaties/ lachcha parantha or any other Indian bread of choice!

Note: To get best results, do not overcook spinach, overcooking will change the bright green colour of the spinach and also the taste.

Paneer:

Paneer is a type of cheese. It is the Indian name for cottage cheese. Paneer, unlike other cheeses, has not been matured and it is rather bland. Paneer is a fresh and delicate cottage cheese made from whole milk in India. Paneer is rich in nutrients. It is a high protein food; it is often substituted for meat in many vegetarian entrees of Indian cuisine. It is commonly used in curried dishes. Paneer is quite easy to make at home. Bring 1 litres of fresh toned milk to the boil. Add one table spoon of vinegar or lemon juice or 5-6 table spoons of curd and stir well. The milk starts curdling, pore it in a clean muslin cloth, kept in a strainer. Leave it in the strainer and let it drain well. To form a thick rolled, formed dough like shape, place it under a heavy saucepan full of water or any other heavy object, for approx. 30 minutes. While making paneer from milk, retain the paneer water. This nutritious water can be used for making soft dough for chapattis or any other Indian breads, can be used to cook dals.

 Health benefits of Spinach / Palak:

Spinach is an excellent food loaded with tons of nutrients and a low calorie package. Greens like spinach are important for skin and hair, bone health, and provide protein, iron, vitamins and minerals.

As per studies the possible health benefits of consuming spinach include improving blood glucose control in diabetics, lowering the risk of cancer, lowering blood pressure, improving bone health, lowering the risk of developing asthma and more.

Ref. http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/270609.php

 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.

 

Spicy Masoor Dal

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Spicy Masoor dal

Spicy Masoor Dal

Hi friends! It is a delicious lentil made with tomato and spices. Masoor dal can be cooked in the combination of various other vegetables such as beans, cauliflower, green peas, etc. also.

Preparation time: 10 mins.
Cooking time: 10 mins.
Serves 6
Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup masoor /whole red lentil, husked masoor whole
  • 2 medium size onions, finely chopped
  • 2 medium sized tomatoes, finely chopped
  • 1 1/2″ piece ginger , finely grated
  • 1/4 tsp asafetida
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • 1/4 tsp garam masala
  • 1 level tsp salt / or salt to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 1/2 tbsp pure ghee
  • 1 tbsp coriander /dhania/Cilantro, finely chopped for garnishing

For Tempering:

  • 12 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • 1 medium size onion, finely sliced

Method:

Step 1.

Wash the masoor dal very well, soak in 500 ml water for fifteen minutes.

Step 2.

In a pressure cooker, take Olive oil heat add cumin . When cumin starts to crackle, add asafetida fry for a few seconds, till it is light pink in colour. Add the chopped onions, add the tomatoes, fry for 3-4 minutes.

Step 3.

Add coriander, turmeric, chili powder, fry for few seconds, add soaked dal with water, salt and close the lid, cook on high flame, after the pressure is formed, reduce heat to low flame, cook for one minute only. Cool the pressure cooker to room temperature.

Step 4.

Open the lid of pressure cooker, take out the dal in a medium size bowl. Heat the ghee in a pan add the sliced onions sauté for 4-5 minutes, till light golden.

Step 5.

Add the finely chopped garlic, fry for 3 to 4 minutes, add gram masala, fry for few seconds.

Step 6.

Put the above tempering in to the dal . Serve hot, garnished with chopped coriander. It is very delicious spicy dish. Serve with all Indian breads or boiled rice.

Health benefits of Masoor dal:

Packed with protein, fiber, iron, folate, and other important nutrients, lentils are the storehouse of nutrition offering you numerous health promoting benefits and longevity as well.Masoor dal is an ideal food addition to your weight loss diet because it is low in fat and contains high amounts of fiber. Eating fiber rich foods controls your appetite by giving you the feeling of fullness which lasts for a long period of time. Masoor dal helps in loseing weight, protects the heart, and is good for diabetics.

Red lentils improve digestive health, reduce cancer risk,boost your immune power,reduce inflammation,and are healthy for eyes.Red lentils boost energy,and is good for strong bones and teeth.

Ref. http://www.valuefood.info/food/natural-food/nutrition-health-benefits-pulses-cereals/benefits-of-red-lentils-masoor-dal/

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.

 

 

Tomato Soup

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Tomato soup G

Hi friends ! Whether you refer to a tomato as a fruit or a vegetable, there is no doubt that a tomato is a nutrient-dense, super-food that most people should be eating more of.The tomato has been referred to as a “functional food,” a food that goes beyond providing just basic nutrition, additionally preventing chronic disease and delivering other health benefits, due to beneficial phytochemicals such as lycopene. Here is a simple yet delicious recipe of tomato soup.

Servings: 4

Preparation time: 10 minutes

Cooking time: 10-15 minutes

Ingredients: 

    • 8  medium size tomatoes- chopped (into four quarters each)
    • 1 medium size onion ,finely chopped /or 1 cup chopped onion
    • 2 carrots, finely chopped / or grated
    • 4 cloves of garlic , finely chopped
    • 1/2 ” piece ginger ,finely grated
    • 1/4 tsp black pepper powder
    • 1 tsp sugar
    • 2 tsp salt or /to taste
    • 4 cups of water

To garnish:

    • 2 tsp fresh cream for garnishing

Method: 

Step 1.

In the pressure cooker take halved tomatoes, carrot ,onions, garlic, ginger with 4 cups of water close the lid and place the cooker on high flame.The moment full pressure is formed switch off the stove.

Step 2.

Let the pressure cooker cooled down to room temperature,open the lid and strain the the tomatoes and vegetables with a strainer.Keep the strained soup in a mixing bowl aside.

Step 3.

Remove the tomato skins with a fork from the strained vegetables and blend all the vegetables in a blender.

Step 4.

Put the blended vegetable mix through soup strainer in to the strained soup, mix well.

Step 5.

Bring to a boil again, and then simmer. Add salt, sugar and black pepper. Simmer for another 5 minutes.

Step 6.

Pour the soup in bowls, and garnish with the cream. Serve the croutons on the side.

Health benefits of Tomatoes:

Recent developments on the health benefits of tomatoes from MNT news

A tomato-rich diet may reduce breast cancer risk, study shows.

Risk of breast cancer for postmenopausal women may reduce with a tomato-rich diet, after a study showed the diet increased levels of adiponectin – a fat and blood sugar regulator.

Soy And Tomato Combination May Help Prevent Prostate Cancer.

Men who consume plenty of soy and tomato combinations probably have a much lower risk of developing prostate cancer compared to those who don’t.

Tomato extract ‘improves blood vessel function’ in CVD patients

Results of a study published in the journal PLOS One, revealed that CVD patients who received lycopene supplementation showed improved blood vessel response to acetylcholine, compared with healthy volunteers, which indicated normalized endothelial function.

Ref.http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/273031.php

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.

 

Moong Pakori Raita

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Bundi raita     moong dal pakori   Moong Pakori Raita

Hi friends! Here is a simple,delicious and very healthy recipe of an Indian side dish of yogurt/curd/Dahi containing fried lentil balls and spices.

Serving: 6

Dal soaking time: 3-4 hours

Cooking time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:      

 For Pakori

  •  1 cup soaked overnight ( or for  at least 3-4 hours) dhuli moong daal (husked green gram)
  • 1  tsp red chili powder / or add more to taste
  • 1/2 tsp cumin seeds/ geera
  • 1 level tsp salt or/ salt to taste
  • 1 tsp adrak (ginger) finely grated
  • Oil for deep-frying

For Raita

  •  1 liter Curd/ yogurt
  • 1 tsp roasted and powdered cumin seeds/ geera
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper powder
  • 1 tsp salt / or salt to taste

Method:

Step 1.

wash and soak moong dal for 3-4 hours. Grind the daal to a smooth consistency with using very little water or no water.

Step 2.
Heat the oil and drop teaspoonfuls into the hot oil and fry the pakoris, fry to a golden color, strain and keep aside on a paper kitchen towel till all the pakoris are fried.

Step 3.

Soak the pakoris in water for ten minutes. Then take out the pakoris from water and gently squeeze out the water and keep aside.

Step 4.

Whisk the curd/ yogurt in a bowl very nicely. Mix salt, roasted geera powder, pepper, add the ready pakoris to the curd. Mix well, refrigerate till served.

Note: Imali /tamrind, khatti meethi chutney, goes very well with this Raita.

Curd Cooking tips:

A bowl of fresh curd and dal pakori (Raitas)is a great accompaniment to lunches and dinners.  Add sour curd to salads which make it taste better.

Sour curd is added to vegetable curries instead of tomatoes to make it rich and delicious.

Health benefits of curd:

Being rich in calcium, curd is good for the health of bones as well as the teeth. For those who have difficulty in the digestion of lactose in milk, yogurt is an important source of calcium. Curd contains an enzyme which breaks down lactose to aid proper digestion.

Curd / Yogurt is rich in vitamin D which helps our body to absorb and use calcium.

Curd / Yogurt helps you feel fuller and is thus, a very good snack for those trying to lose weight.

Eating  curd / yogurt on a regular basis can help absorb the nutrients in other foods as well.

Ref. http://www.thehealthsite.com/fitness/9-reasons-curd-is-great-for-your-health/

Health benefits of moong dal:

Among other moong dal nutrition benefits, this dal is a good source for a variety of vitamins and minerals.  Provides folate (vitamin B9). Moong dal also provides significant amounts of thiamine (vitamin B1), as well as vitamin B5 and vitamin B6. In addition to this, it contains high levels of the minerals iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, and zin.

A great moong dal nutrition benefit is the amount of fiber it has.

Moong beans are packed with protein.

Moong dal can be a great, nutritious addition to a balanced diet. It is a healthy meal that provides high levels of protein and fiber while containing relatively few calories and little fat.

Ref.http://weightloss.answers.com/nutrition/5-nutrition-facts-for-moong-dal

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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Kadhi

~ saanjhachullha ~ 1 Comment

 

Kadhi 1           boiled rice

Preparation Time: 15 mins
Cooking Time: 30 mins
Serving : for  6

Ingredients:

For Pakoras

  • 1 1/2 cup besan /bengal gram flour
  • 2  medium onion/ 1 cup , finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon Kasuri methi
  • 1/2 teaspoon carom seeds /ajwain
  • 1 tsp red chili powder
  • 1/2 level teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 level teaspoon salt / or salt to taste
  • oil for deep frying

For Kadhi:

  •  2 cup curd / yogurt
  • 1/2 cup besan /bengal gram flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder /haldi
  • 1 teaspoon red chilli powder
  • 2 teaspoon dry mango powder / amchoor
  • 1/2 tsp cumin/ geera powder ,roasted and powdered
  • 1 tsp salt/or to taste
  • 1 teaspoon ginger paste
  • 12 pods of Garlic
  • 1 cup finely chopped onion
  • 500 ml water

 For Tempering:

  •  2 tablespoon cooking oil
  • 1 teaspoon  fenugreek /methi seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds/Jeera
  • 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds

Method:

 For pakoras:

 Step 1.

Add little water gradually to the besan /bengal gram flour in a bowl and make a thick consistency batter. Add Kasuri methi leaves, finely chopped onions,  coriander powder, carom seeds/ ajwain, chili powder, baking powder, and salt to the batter mix well.

Step 2.

Heat oil in a kadai, drop spoon full of batter in the hot oil and deep fry  the pakoras till golden brown. Drain on an absorbent kitchen towel and keep aside.

For kadhi

Step 1,

Whisk or blend in a blender take , curd/ yogurt , besan /bengal gram flour, turmeric powder, chili powder, dry mango powder / amchoor and salt , blend it well, adding some water. Keep aside.

For tempering

Step 1.

Heat 2 tablespoon of oil in a deep heavy bottom pan. Add  cumin seeds when the seeds start crackling add  mustard seeds ,fenugreek seeds (don’t let fenugreek seeds over cook) Stir-fry for ½ minute. Add finely chopped onions, lightly fry the onions till translucent. add ginger garlic paste, Fry for few minutes.

Step 2.

For kadhi, add yogurt mixture to the tempering along with rest of the water and bring to a boil and simmer on low heat for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3.

Add  fried pakoras and continue to simmer for another 4-5 minutes.

Healthy and delicious dish , serve hot with boiled rice, onion salad and papad.

 

Health benefits of Gram flour / Besan:

1. Lowers diabetes– Besan is known to have very low levels of glycemic in it, which is great for those who have high diabetes. One can use the flour to make parathas and rotis, or replace the wheat flour to make desired dishes too.

2. Happy heart- Besan assures you with a happy heart, since it has high soluble fibre in it, which helps the heart stay strong and healthy for a very long time to come. Even the most reputed heart surgeons and specialists recommend the use of besan over any other flour for the heart, say experts

3. Lose weight now- Since besan has low glycemic index, the calorie count would be low too, which is why fitness freaks and experts swear by the consumption of besan, smoothie of besan is known as SATTU in India.

4. Fights allergies- Besan doesn’t have gluten in it, which is grain and especially wonderful for those who have allergies to gluten induced foods. Besan flour is highly nutritious and helps the body with immense benefits, especially when fighting allergies of any kinds.

5. Gluten free- Those who suffer from celiac ailments cannot have gluten, which is a protein. Gluten is found in barley and wheat extensively, but not in besan. Besan helps the immune system stay strong in the process, and the patient would be able to absorb all the nutrients as well as stay well nourished too.

6. No more anaemia to worry of- The flour of besan helps with fatigue, weight loss and even iron deficiency in the body, and we all know  when someone has low iron content in the body, they suffer from anaemia.

7. Besan is also good for those who suffer from dermatitis herpetiformis, autoimmune disorders, sclerosis, autism, ADHD and more.

8. One can use besan for the skin with a pinch of turmeric powder and milk. The paste can be applied on the visible parts of the face and neck and left for ten minutes to dry. This is a pack which would help exfoliate the skin and brings back the moisturising effects too. Besan flour helps tighten the skin, gives it a glow and brings back elasticity too

9. As a body scrub, the flour of besan has been used time again since our grandmothers young hood days. To remove spots, back acne, body marks and oiliness of the body, try using the flour as a pack with milk and turmeric twice a week. This is a pack which would remove the tan and keep the skin healthy and fresh.

More benefits:

a. Besan flour when mixed with an egg or even with any essential oil and milk, and applied on the hair is a good hair pack. This would be a hair pack which rests on your hair for half an hour and when done twice a week, would bring back the bounce, shine and lustre too

b. Besan flour has plenty of vitamins and folate in it, which is mandatory for our bodies to have. It is these vitamins and minerals which helps with the normalcy of body functioning, and the growth or development of the human body too.

c. Expectant mothers or when a woman plans pregnancy, besan flour can actually be good for consumption, since it has a lot of B6 and thiamine in it. The latter helps with energising the body, and the former helps with the RBC synthesis too.

d. Minerals found in besan would be of great help for the body, especially the presence of phosphorus and magnesium. Both the elements are known for their importance and oxy transmitters and as antioxidants too. They also help with the collagen production and the relaxation of body muscles too.

e. Blood pressure can be regulated when you consume besan flour, say experts.

f. Bone strengthening too can be achieved when you consume besan flour

Ref.http://stylesatlife.com/articles/besan-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.

 

Mango Chutney

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Mango chutney.JPGMango

This simply delicious chutney recipe is contributed by Mrs. Rohini G Tirupathi.

Hi friends!Raw mango is one of the healthiest fruits you can try out in the beginning of summer. Raw mango is loved not just for its taste but also for the numerous health benefits it has. This mango chutney is made with raw mangoes and can be stored in an air-tight container. Try out this healthy recipe.

Ingredients:

  •  1 kg Green Mangoes (raw) grated
  • 1 kg Sugar
  •  10 to 12 chopped Garlic flakes
  • 1 tbsp Salt
  • 1 tbsp Red chilli powder
  • 1 tbsp Coriander powder
  • 1 tbsp Cumin seed,roasted and powdered
  • 3-4 tbsp Vinegar

Method:

Step 1.

 Wash, peel and grate the mangoes in a bowl.

Step 2.

 Add sugar and mix it well with the pulp without adding water.

Step 3.

 Cook with chopped garlic till a drop of it set on a cold plate.

Step 4.

 Remove from the gas and add the spices.

Step 5.

 When cold, add the vinegar.

 Step 6.

Bottle it in sterilized jars.

Note: Raw mangoes contains vitamin A and Vitamin E that is said to maintain hormonal balance in the body. Eating unripe mangoes with salt prevents the excessive loss of water from the body, and helps to quench thirst. In summers, it is the most sought after food because it is said to prevent heat stroke and is also used as a medicine against the same.

Health benefits of raw mangoes:

  • Treat blood disorders: Raw mangoes are extremely beneficial in treating blood disorders because of their high Vitamin C content. Vitamin C increases the elasticity of the blood vessels and boosts the formation of new blood cells. It also aids the absorption of iron and prevents bleeding tendencies besides increasing body resistance against TB, anaemia, cholera and dysentery.
  • Treatment of Scurvy: Dried mango powder is highly beneficial in treating Scurvy.
  • Indigestion and constipation:Raw mangoes are good for hormonal health.
  • They contain Vitamin B that helps you retain good health. They also help with indigestion and constipation problems. Furthermore, they cleanse the intestine and clear off many other infections. Raw mango contains vitamin A and Vitamin E that enhances one’s hormonal system.
  • Prevent dehydration
  • Eating unripe mangoes with salt prevents the excessive loss of water from the body, and helps to quench thirst. In addition, it also protects one from the negative effects of very high temperature. Drinking unripe mango juice prevents the excessive loss of sodium chloride and iron to excessive sweating.
  • Treats gastro-intestinal disordersUnripe mango juice is nutritious. Unripe mangoes are a rich source of pectin, which if mixed with honey and salt, is highly beneficial in treating gastro-intestinal disorders. It is also considered as very effective medicine for diarrhea, piles, morning sickness, chronic dyspepsia, indigestion and constipation.
  • Treat liver disorders Unripe mangoes help in treating liver disorders because they increase the secretion of bile acids and clean the intestines of bacterial infections. They also have more Antioxidants and Vitamin C than ripe mangoes. These antioxidant properties protect the body against cancer and cardiovascular diseases.

Ref. http://www.newtimes.co.rw/section/article/2015-02-16/186012/

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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Chote Baingan Bharwaan / Egg Plant/Baby Brinjal Stuffed

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Brinjals stuffed

The chote baigans / baby brinjals are slit and stuffed with dry spices /masala and then cooked on slow fire in a rich and spicy curry. It is a delicious North India recipe.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Cuisine : North Indian

Serves: 4-5

Ingredients:

  • 8-10 small Brinjals /Eggplants (chote baingan)
  • 2 Large Onion
  • 2 large tomatoes (chopped and pureed)_
  • 1 tsp Ginger paste
  • 1 tsp Garlic paste
  • 2/3 tsp red chili powder
  • 2/3 tsp turmeric/Haldi powder
  • 1 1/2 tbsp coriander/dhania powder
  • 1 tsp dry mango powder or amchoor
  • 1 tsp cumin (roasted and powdered cumin seeds or jeera)
  • 2-3 tbsp olive oil/ or oil of your choice
  • 2/3 tsp salt/ or salt to taste

Method:

Step 1.

Wash and slit the brinjals into four parts, while keeping them together at the stalk. Keep them aside.

Step 2.

Put all the dry ingredients in a bowl and mix well.

Step 3.

Fill the split eggplants with the mixed dry spices.

Step 4.

Heat olive oil in a pan, add finely chopped onions and sauté them till golden. Add tomato puree and ginger \ garlic paste cook for few more minutes.

Step 5.

Add stuffed brinjals in to the onion, tomato mix , cover and cook. All the leftover dry masala to be added at this point. Keep turning the brinjals and cook well from all sides on slow fire.When brinjals are cooked from all sides, cook for another five more minutes on a low flame for blending well.

Step 6.

Once ready garnish with fresh Coriander leaves and serve hot with  tandoori Roti , chapatti or Parantha (all Indian breads).

Hope you would give it a try , it is a delicious side dish with the main course & let me know how you liked it !

Baigan ka Bhurtha

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Bhartha NG

It is a simple Punjabi baigan bharta recipe without the use of many masalas and spices. Less or no spices help in retaining a smoky aroma and flavor of the roasted baigan .

Preparation time: 30 minutes

Cuisine: Punjabi / North Indian

Cooking time: 30 minutes (slow fire cooking)

Serves: 4 people

 Ingredients :

  • 1 Brinjal / Aubergine / eggplant / Baigan(large, seedless, fresh)
  • 3 Onions (large, finely chopped)
  • 2 Tomatoes (finely chopped)
  • 7-8 cloves of garlic/ lahsoon (finely chopped)
  • 1″ piece of ginger/ adrak finely grated
  • ½ tsp Red chili powder
  • 1 green chili (finely chopped)
  • 1 level teaspoon salt
  • 3 tbsp Olive Oil
  • 3 tbsp finely chopped green coriander leaves

Method:

Step 1.

Wash the baigan (eggplant or aubergine) with water. Dry with a kitchen napkin. Apply some oil on the baigan and keep it for roasting on an open flame. Keep it turning on the fire after couple of minutes such that the baigan gets roasted on all sides completely. When soft and well roasted from all sides, remove from fire & soak in cold water for removing the skin.

Step 2.

Peel the skin of the roasted baigan. Keep it on the chopping board. Cut the stem of the baigan. Mash the roasted brinjals with a fork. keep aside.

Step 3.

When the baigan is getting roasted, finely chop the onions and tomatoes and keep aside in two separate bowls.

Step 4.

In a kadai/ wok or heavy bottom pan heat up the oil.  Add the onions, fry the onions till golden. Add the ginger, garlic and sauté for few minutes.

Step 5.

Add the mashed brinjal, tomatoes cover and cook for some more time till tomatoes are cooked and well blended with mashed brinjal, onions. Add, salt, chili powder and mix well.

Step 6.

Take out the bhrtha in a serving bowl. Just before serving garnish with fresh coriander. Serve hot with tandoori roti, chapatti, paratha, etc.

Variation: One cup of lightly salted boiled shelled peas can also be used for garnishing along with chopped coriander leaves.

Arbi/Colocasia Curry

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DSC01938

Taro vegetable or Arbi/ Colocasia as we better know it, originates from Malaysia and India, where it grows wild in wet or dry places. The taro leaves are heart shaped with white roots that are nutty in flavour. It can cause skin irritation when peeling. Taro is also known as dasheen,  esculenta . It has many healing properties that are useful to get rid of many diseases.

Serving: 4-5

Ingredients :

  • 250 gms Arbi /Colocasia, boiled, peeled
  • 2 medium size onions
  • 1/2 tsp Chilli powder/or to taste
  • 15 cloves of garlic, crushed in to a paste
  • 1 tsp Ginger paste/ 1″ ginger piece grated
  • 1 1/2 tsp Dhania /coriander powder
  • 1/2 tsp jeera /cumin seeds
  • 1 cup curd /yogurt
  • 2 tbsp Besan / Gram flour
  • 3 cups water
  • Oil for deep frying
  • 2 tbsp finely chopped Coriander leaves for garnishing

Method:

Step 1.

Cut boiled and peeled arbi in to big pieces. Keep aside for deep frying.

Step 2.

Heat oil and deep fry arbi pieces till golden. Keep aside.

Step 3.

Finely chop onions and steam, cool and grind into a paste.

Step 4.

Take a deep heavy bottom pan, put 2 tablespoons oil and put the onion paste into it.

Step 5.

Sauté the onion paste for a few minutes, see that it’s color doesn’t change. Add ginger, garlic paste fry for few minutes. Add salt, turmeric, chili powder and coriander powder to the masala and fry for a few minutes more.

Step 6.

Take besan in a small bowl add three table spoons of water , mix well to make a paste add  it to beaten curd  mix well.

Step 7.

Add  this mixture and water  to the fried masala, bring it to a boil.

Step 8.

Simmer over low heat till thickened a bit ,about 10- 15 minutes, stirring fairly frequently. Add the fried arbi pieces, simmer for 5-8 minutes more .

Step 9.

Garnish with the coriander leaves  and serve hot.

Health benefits of Arbi/ Colocasia/Taro :

1. Reduces Fatigue:

Arbi/ Colocasia/Taro is mainly consumed by athletes for long lasting energy. This is because it contains a low glycemic index which is good for athletes.

2. Weight loss:

Arbi/ Colocasia/Taro can prove to be very beneficial for the ones who want to lose weight, since this has very a low caloric content. One cup of cooked taro can give you 187 calories.

3. Digestion:

This root contains a good amount of fiber that is useful for the digestive process. This gives you a feeling of being full for a longer time even after a small meal. Thus, eating taro roots can be useful to lose pounds and maintain your weight, since it has low calories and high fiber.

 4. Clear stomach:

Foods that contains high amount of fiber are also known to boost the digestive process. This helps to eliminate the wastes from the body and prevent re-occurrence.

[ Read: Iodine Benefits ]

5. Heart health:

One cup of taro has 0.1g fat and cholesterol, which helps to prevent hardening of the arteries. You can consume it several times without worrying about gaining weight or other health problems related to fatty foods like heart or kidney diseases. Taro roots can give 19% of the daily required Vitamin E that is required to prevent the risks of a heart attack.

6. Hypertension:

Hypertension or high blood pressure is mostly observed in the mid aged group of individuals which can be kept in control by consuming foods that are low in fat and sodium. One cup of taro gives only 20 mg of sodium that helps to maintain kidney problems and fluid retention.

7. Antioxidant:

Arbi/ Colocasia/Taro is one of the best sources of Vitamin C, since one cup of taro can give 11% of your daily requirement of Vitamin C. This acts as an antioxidant to remove toxins from your body and detoxifies it.

8. Immunity:

Vitamin C in taro is useful in regenerative functions and boosts the immunity of the body.

[ Read: Geranium Oil ]

9. Low Glycaemia Index Food:

Arbi/ Colocasia/Taro has a low glycaemia index. This helps to break down glucose in the liver slowly and aids in weight loss and lowers blood sugar. This is also useful for hypoglycaemia as this provides long lasting energy.

10. Aging process:

This is a very nutritious food that contains many Vitamins – A, C, B, minerals like copper, manganese, zinc, magnesium, calcium, iron, selenium, potassium, beta-carotene and cryptoxanthin. All these are good antioxidants that are useful to protect against diseases and slow down the aging process. This also contains protein and is gluten-free, cholesterol-free and low in sodium too.

11. Cancer:

Arbi/ Colocasia/Taro is very high in Vitamin A that has more than 160% of your daily requirement of Vitamin A. The leaves and roots of taro contain polyphenols which are great antioxidants to protect even from cancer.

12. Muscle health:

Arbi/ Colocasia/Taro contains Vitamin E and magnesium that can protect you from cancer and heart disease. This also helps to maintain your blood pressure and is helpful for fluid regulation. Taro roots contain magnesium which is vital for muscle, bone and nerve health.

[ Read: Iodine Benefits ]

13. Amino Acids and Omega-3 oils:

Taro root has more than 17 different amino acids that are essential to maintain good health. This also has Omega 3 and 6 oils which are required for maintaining cardiovascular health, cancer prevention, and other diseases.

14. Cooking:

Arbi/ Colocasia/Taro and leaves both have great flavours. They can be cooked and impart a nutty flavour, whereas the leaves taste like cabbage. Taro roots are used to prepare curries, fried for chips, cakes, roasted, boiled, steamed, pureed etc.

Ref.http://www.stylecraze.com/articles/benefits-of-taro-vegetable/

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.

 

Bitter Gourd stuffed

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Stuffed Karelas/ Bitter Gourd

Karela 3    Bitter Gourd

Good amount of Onions are very essential for this delicious dish!

Ingredients:

  • 8- 9 medium size tender Bitter Gourd /karelas
  • 8-9 medium size onions /cut into big pieces
  • 2 big size Tomatoes,finely chopped

For filling of Karelas :

  • 3 tbsp coriander powder
  • 1 tsp Geera /cumin seed, roasted and powdered
  • 2/3 tsp Turmeric powder
  • 1 1/2 tbsp Saunf /Fennel seeds, powdered
  • 2 tsp Amchoor /Dry Mango powder
  • 2/3 tsp Red chili powder
  • 1 1/2 tsp low sodium Salt / or salt to taste
  • 3 tbsp Oil, for best results mustard oil.( Other oils like Olive oil/canola oil etc. can be used too)

Method:

Step1.

wash the bitter gourd / Karelas well, remove the two ends of the bitter gourd / Karelas gently and slit them across from one end to the other (without removing the inner pulp/seeds or scraping the outer skin!) keep aside.

Step2.

In a small mixing bowl put coriander powder, geera, turmeric, chili, Saunf powder, amchoor and salt mix it well. Fill in / stuff the bitter gourd / Karelas with these powdered spices mixture .

Step 3.

Heat the oil in a heavy bottom pan Sauté the onions lightly.

Step 4.

Add Stuffed bitter gourd / Karelas, cook on slow fire till bitter gourd / Karelas are light in colour.

Step 5.

Add cut tomatoes to the Kerala, onion mixture and Cook on slow fire till bitter gourd / Karelas is well cooked.

Step 6.

Serve hot.

Health benefits of Karelas / Bitter gourd:

Many of us do not like it for its bitter taste. But it is a blood purifier. The Bitter- guard prevents and treats from Type II diabetes which is insulin independent diabetes. It helps to low down your blood sugar level as it helps to reduce body weight. Kerala have 16 calories per cup, and leafy tips have 14 calories. Kerala is high in water content (90%) and water is calorie-free.

The more water you intake the more your appetite is suppressed as you feel fuller in your tummy. Kerala has 2.6 g dietary fiber, and as it takes a longer time to break down in the stomach you feel less hungry.  You think the bitterness of the Kerala is a turn off? Than try soaking it in chilled saltwater for a few hours before eating it or cooking it. One cup of Kerala has 70 per cent of the daily value for vitamin C, and at least 9 per cent of the daily value for vitamin A. Kerala is sodium-free.

Ref.http://chennaionline.com/Health/Articles/20135908115913/Kerala–health-benefits.col

Cucumber Raita

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Cucumber     Cucumber Raita 1

Kheera /Cucumber Raita

Hi friends! Here is a simple, delicious and very healthy recipe of an Indian side dish of yogurt/curd/Dahi  containing grated cucumber and spices. A no flame ,very healthy, tasty,  easy to follow  curd based recipe.This preparation provides protein. Natural live cultures are good for body.

Prep Time: Under 15 min

Course: Main course,Side dish

Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

  • 3 cups plain Yogurt
  • 1 medium size cucumber (half grated and half chopped)
  • 1 tsp roasted cumin powder
  • 1 tsp finally chopped fresh coriander leaves
  • 1/2 tsp low sodium salt/or to taste (low sodium salt is good for health)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper powder

Method:

Step 1.

Wash and peel cucumber. Grate one half of the cucumber in a bowl and chop second half of the cucumber in to small cubes in the same bowl.

Step 2.

Take the yogurt in a mixing bowl, beat it to a smooth texture.

Step 3.

Add the salt, cumin powder, pepper to the beaten curd.

Step 4.

Mix or fold in the grated and cubed cucumber and mix well.

Step 5.

Refrigerate till served. Serve as a side dish with all the rice preparations and Indian breads .

Health benefits of cucumbers:

Cucumbers are a good source of B vitamins.

Cucumbers are 95 percent water, keeping the body hydrated while helping the body eliminate toxins. Cucumbers have most of the vitamins the body needs in a single day.

Cucumber cures diabetes, reduces cholesterol and controls blood pressure. Cucumber juice contains a hormone which is needed by the cells of the pancreas for producing insulin which has been found to be beneficial to diabetic patients.

Researchers found that a compound called sterols in cucumbers may help reduce cholesterol levels.

Cucumbers contain a lot of potassium, magnesium and fiber. These work effectively for regulating blood pressure. This makes cucumbers good for treating both low blood pressure and high blood pressure.

Ref. http://www.naturalnews.com/036769_cucumbers_health_benefits_rehydration.html

 Health benefits of curd:Being rich in calcium, curd is good for the health of bones as well as the teeth. For those who have difficulty in the digestion of lactose in milk, yogurt is an important source of calcium. Curd contains an enzyme which breaks down lactose to aid proper digestion.Curd / Yogurt is rich in vitamin D which helps our body to absorb and use calcium.Curd / Yogurt helps you feel fuller and is thus, a very good snack for those trying to lose weight.

Eating  curd / yogurt on a regular basis can help absorb the nutrients in other foods as well.

Ref.http://www.thehealthsite.com/fitness/9-reasons-curd-is-great-for-your-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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Bottle Gourd Raita

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Lauki /Ghiya / Bottle gourd Raita 

bottle-gourd  ghiya raita 3

Hi friends! Here is a simple, delicious and very healthy recipe of an Indian side dish of yogurt/curd/Dahi  containing grated steamed bottle gourd and spices.

 Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Prep Time: Under 15 minutes

Course: Main,side dish

Serves: 4 people

 Ingredients:

  • 3 Cups Curd / Yogurt or 500 gms curd/ yogurt
  • 1 1/2 cup grated Ghiya (lauki)
  • 1tsp Cumin (jeera roasted and powdered) powder
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper powder
  • 1/2 tsp yellow mustard powdered
  • 1/2 tsp salt/ or salt to taste

Method :

Step 1.

Grate ghiya with a grater,keep aside.

Step 2.

Boil grated ghiya in three cups of water till soft (6-7 minutes), drain in a strainer and cool it.

Step 3.

Mix the curd with a beater. If curd is thick mix little milk.

Step 4.

Now add salt, cumin powder and pepper powder in the beaten curd.Fold in the boiled ghiya, mix well.

Step 5.

Keep refrigerated till served.Sprinkle powdered mustard on it.

Step 6.

Serve ghiya raita chilled  as a side dish with boiled rice, rice pulaos, chapattis, parothas, and all other Indian breads.

Cooking tips

A bowl of fresh curd and veggies (Raitas)is a great accompaniment to lunches and dinners.  Add sour curd to salads which make it taste better.

Sour curd is added to vegetable curries instead of tomatoes to make it rich and delicious.

Health benefits of curd:

Being rich in calcium, curd is good for the health of bones as well as the teeth. For those who have difficulty in the digestion of lactose in milk, yogurt is an important source of calcium. Curd contains an enzyme which breaks down lactose to aid proper digestion.

Curd / Yogurt is rich in vitamin D which helps our body to absorb and use calcium.

Curd / Yogurt helps you feel fuller and is thus, a very good snack for those trying to lose weight.

Eating  curd / yogurt on a regular basis can help absorb the nutrients in other foods as well.

Ref.http://www.thehealthsite.com/fitness/9-reasons-curd-is-great-for-your-health/

Health benefits of bottle gourd/lauki:

This South Asian bottle gourd is bottle shaped, light green and long. The flesh inside is spongy. Bottle gourd or lauki is over 90% water therefore it is easy to digest.

It contains many vitamins and minerals, such as, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, Vitamin A, C and folate.

It is extremely popular for weight loss. Especially the bottle gourd or lauki juice.

Bottle gourd is extremely popular for reducing high blood pressure and keeping your heart healthy

Lauki or bottle gourd is known to combat excessive thirst in diabetic patients.

The fiber and the minerals in the bottle gourd or lauki supports healthy digestion and combats flatulence and combats constipation.

Bottle gourd is recommended by Ayurvedic doctors for reducing liver inflammation.

Ref. http://beautyhealthtips.in/amazing-10-health-benefits-of-bottle-gourd-lauki/

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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Aloo Paratha

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aloo parantha

Potato / Aloo Paratha /Indian flatbread

Parathas are one of the most popular unleavened flatbread in the India part of the Indian Subcontinent and they are made by baking whole wheat dough on a tava, and finishing off with shallow frying, Parathas are thicker and more substantial than chapatis/rotis .

Hi friends!Here is the recipe of Parathas, whole wheat flour soft dough stuffed with a spicy mixture of boiled and mashed potatoes which is rolled out and cooked on a hot Tawa/griddle with butter or ghee. These are absolutely irresistible!!!

Preparation Time : 15-20 minutes

Cooking time : 10-15 minutes

Cuisine : North Indian / Punjabi

Servings : 6

Ingredients :

  • 6-7 Potatoes medium (pressure cooked for 5-6 minutes)
  • 2 cups whole wheat flour (atta)
  • 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh coriander leaves
  • 2 Green chilli (finely chopped)
  • 1″piece Ginger (finely grated)
  • 1 tsp roasted and powdered jeera / cumin seeds
  • 1 onion medium size (finely chopped)
  • 1 tsp dry mango powder (amchoor)
  • 1/4 tsp Red chilli powder
  • 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 and mix in water, little at a time. Add enough water to make a firm dough (not too soft not too hard). Keep aside, covered for fifteen to twenty minutes.

Step 2.

Peel and mash potatoes. Add finely chopped onions, coriander leaves, ginger, green chillies, cumin powder, mango powder, red chili powder and salt. Mix the ingredients well.

Step 3.

Divide the dough into medium-sized balls. Roll out each ball into a medium thick chapatti using dry flour for dusting.

Step 4.

Put two tablespoons of the potato mixture in the middle of the rolled chapatti and close from all sides. 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) and cook the paratha.

Step 6

Shallow fry both sides to golden brown, using a little ghee. Serve hot with a blob of butter. A bowl of curd/yogurt and fresh coriander chutney is a deliciously good accompaniment!

Health Benefits of potatoes:

1. Bone health

The iron, phosphorous, calcium, magnesium, and zinc in potatoes all contribute to the building and maintenance of bone structure and strength.

Iron and zinc play crucial roles in the production and maturation of collagen. Though phosphorus and calcium are both important in bone structure, the careful balance of the two minerals is necessary for proper bone mineralization – consumption of too much phosphorus with too little calcium can result in bone loss.

2.Blood pressure

Maintaining a low sodium intake is essential for maintaining a healthy blood pressure, however, increasing potassium intake may be just as important because of its vasodilatation effects.

3. Heart health

The potato’s fiber, potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6 content, coupled with its lack of cholesterol, all support heart health.

4. Inflammation

Choline is an important and versatile nutrient present in potatoes; it helps with sleep, muscle movement, learning, and memory. Choline also helps to maintain the structure of cellular membranes, aids in the transmission of nerve impulses, assists in the absorption of fat, and reduces chronic inflammation.

5.Cancer

Potatoes contain folate, which plays a role in DNA synthesis and repair, thus preventing the formation of cancer cells from mutations in the DNA.

6. Digestion and regularity

Because of their fiber content, potatoes help to prevent constipation and promote regularity for a healthy digestive tract.

7. Weight management and satiety

Dietary fibers are commonly recognized as important factors in weight management and weight-loss by functioning as “bulking agents” in the digestive system. These compounds increase satiety and reduce appetite, making an individual feel fuller for longer and thereby lowering overall calorie intake.

8. Metabolism

Potatoes are a great source of vitamin B6, which plays a vital role in energy metabolism by breaking down carbohydrates and proteins into glucose and amino acids. These smaller compounds are more easily utilized for energy within the body.

9. Skin

Collagen, the skin’s support system, relies on vitamin C as an essential nutrient that works in our bodies as an antioxidant to help prevent damage caused by the sun, pollution, and smoke. Vitamin C also promotes collagen’s ability to smooth wrinkles and improve overall skin texture.

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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Paneer Parathas

~ saanjhachullha ~ Leave a comment

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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