So, how have you all been?  I know I often do a peek-a-boo when it comes to my blog!  but, I won't abandon it for sure and I promise you, you will be seeing more here soon.   I am in India enjoying my holiday! well, this was a very surprising holiday actually and it got extended as well and I will be going back soon l!  I have been running around visiting all my family and friends it's a blessing to have people around you who love you right?  I feel I am blessed that way!

Here is a quick recipe for you all to enjoy! When you get your favourite Alphonso, pineapple and the fresh coconut which is very different from what I get in UK!  Then this Tropical Vegan smoothie is all I wanted to indulge. Put this bowl in the fridge and you would love it as is so cooling in a warm climate.

These Tropical fruits Pineapple, Mango, Coconut are blend to make a smoothie bowl which is just scrumptious and also a powerhouse of nutrients.

Smoothie Bowl Ingredients
1 Cup of Pineapple Juice from 1 cup of fresh pineapple
1/3 Cup of fresh Coconut
4 tbsp of Porridge Oats
½’’ Ginger
1 tbsp of Omega mix (A mix of sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, Pumpkin, Linseed)
¼ Cup of Agave Nectar / Sugar

Toppings
1 small Banana
¼ cup of Pomegranate
4 slices of Mango
Shavings of Coconut to garnish

Directions

1.  Blend Pineapple chunks with ¼ cup of water, filter the juice out of it.
2. Combine everything under smoothie bowl ingredients in a blender jar and blend until smooth and there are no chunks remaining.
3. Pour into a bowl and add all toppings. Slice the Bananas, top it with pomegranate, Mango and coconut to make it more scrumptious and tasty.

Notes and Tips :  

The Oats which I have used here is Quaker Rolled oats.

I have used fresh coconut, to get a fresh coconut, break open a coconut, using a knife or scraper I take out the flesh chop into little pieces and blend them in a mixer. You can also buy fresh coconut in Asian Grocery shops or online.  If you cannot find fresh coconut you can use tinned coconut milk/ cream instead.

If you use fresh coconut, when you break it open you get coconut water in it, filter the water sometimes there will be remnants from the coconut skin, you can even use this water to blend with the pineapple chunks to get the fresh juice.

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Vegan Tropical Fruit smoothie bowl

A simple yet delicious smoothie with all the tropical fruits in one bowl and is also vegan!

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes minutes

Total Time 20 minutes minutes

Servings 2

Ingredients

• 1 Cup Pineapple juice (1 cup fresh pineapple)
• 1/3 Cup freshly grated coconut
• 1/3 cup Porridge Oats
• 1 tbsp Omega 3 & 6 mix seeds
• 1/4 Cup Agave Nectar / Sugar
• 1/2'' ginger

Toppings

• 1 small Banana
• 1/4 cup Pomegranate
• 4 slices of Mango
• Few Shavings of coconut to garnish

Instructions

• Blend Pineapple chunks with ¼ cup of water, filter the juice out of it.
• Combine everything under smoothie bowl ingredients in a blender jar and blend until smooth and there are no chunks remaining.
• Pour into a bowl and add all toppings. Slice the Bananas, top it with pomegranate, Mango and coconut to make it more scrumptious and tasty.

Notes

The Oats which I have used here is Quaker Rolled oats.

I have used fresh coconut, to get fresh coconut, break open a coconut, using a knife or scraper I take out the flesh chop into little pieces and blend them in a mixer. You can also buy fresh coconut in Asian Grocery shops or online.  If you cannot find fresh coconut you can use tinned coconut milk/ cream instead.

If you use fresh coconut, when you break it open you get coconut water in it, filter the water sometimes there will be remnants from the coconut skin, you can even use this water to blend with the pineapple chunks to get the fresh juice.

The post Vegan Tropical Fruit smoothie bowl appeared first on My Veg Fare.

We all love food, don’t we? When I go to the supermarkets I started noticing that we have hundreds of choices when it comes to buying food or ingredients right?  After moving here being a vegetarian I started reading labels which I never did before!  As I wanted to be sure whatever I was buying it.  We also never ever bought ready made food which was not so popular in Indian then.  we use different kinds of oils in India which usually is to that state we come from isn't it interesting?

Kale famed as superfood belongs to the cruciferous family.  This is high in fiber (1 cup has 2.6grms), high in Iron, high in calcium, Fat-free, keeps cholesterol in check and rich in omega 3, Vitamin A, K and C.   Did you know that even though it is good for health? I read somewhere in Google search that it is not good for everybody.  You must also read about how it is best to eat it raw or cooked or steamed!
Let’s make this superfood pesto then…..

Kale and Almond Pesto with Roasted Red Peppers and goodness of Hemp seeds:
Author: Jayasri
Yields:  2 Cups
Prep time: 20 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Category: Sauce
Cuisine: Italian

INGREDIENTS:
300 grams  Kale*
50 grams of mixed herbs (Basil, Parsley, Oregano)
¼  cup Hemp seeds
1/3 cup Almonds
1 Large Red Pepper
4 Garlic cloves
10 large olives
½ tbsp chili flakes
1 tsp Himalayan pink salt
¼ to ½  cup Olive oil
¼ cup Parmesan cheese (optional)
METHOD:

1. Take just the leaves of kale, do not use the stem as they will be very chewy, wash well and pat them dry.
2. Take fresh herbs of your choice I have used Basil, Parsley, Oregano. Wash and clean the herbs pat them dry.
3. Use a stove top or a grill and roast red pepper and Garlic, peel the skin off and keep it aside.

4. Toasted and cooled Almonds and Hemp seeds for few minutes this just helps in releasing the oil and enhances the flavour.

5. In a food processor combine Almonds, Hemp seeds, olives, garlic, mixed herbs, chilli flakes, roasted red pepper, salt, Kale start processing the machine. With the machine running slowly drizzle olive oil into the processor until the mixture is well blended but still has some texture pausing to scrape down the side so everything is well combined.

6. You can add parmesan if you like a creamier texture or you can completely omit it. I haven’t added it.   Only thing is you need to find out if the Parmesan is a vegetarian as Parmesan contains rennet.
7.  Taste and check if you need more salt and spice.  As some Kale may have a bitter taste.  Adjust accordingly.

Disclaimer: This Post is in collaboration with Jamie's Italian, I am a big fan of  Jamie Oliver. I have been compensated for a small fee and the opinions are my own.

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Kale and Almond Pesto - Jamie's Italian Olive Oil Buyer's Guide

Kale is categorised as one of the super foods for its high Nutritional value! Make this pesto with Kale for a super delicious creamy and rich in nutrient as an accompaniment

Prep Time 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes minutes

Total Time 30 minutes minutes

Ingredients

• 300 grams Kale
• 50 grams Mixed Herbs ( Basil, Parsley, Oregano)
• 1/4 Cup Hemp Seeds
• 1/3 Cup Almonds
• 1 Large Red Pepper
• 4 cloves garlic
• 1/2 tbsp chilli flakes
• 1 tsp Himalayan Pink salt ( adjust accordingly )
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese ( optional)

Instructions

• Take just the leaves of kale, do not use the stem as they will be very chewy, wash well and pat them dry
• Take fresh herbs of your choice I have used Basil, Parsley, Oregano. Wash and clean the herbs pat them dry.
• Use a stove top or a grill and roast red pepper and Garlic, peel the skin off and keep it aside.
• Toasted and cooled Almonds and Hemp seeds for few minutes this just helps in releasing the oil and enhances the flavour.
• In a food processor combine Almonds, Hemp seeds, olives, garlic, mixed herbs, chilli flakes, roasted red pepper, salt, Kale start processing the machine. With the machine running slowly drizzle olive oil into the processor until the mixture is well blended but still has some texture pausing to scrape down the side so everything is well combined.
• You can add parmesan if you like a creamier texture or you can completely omit it. I haven’t added it.   Only thing is you need to find out if the Parmesan is a vegetarian as Parmesan contains rennet.
• Taste and check if you need more salt and spice.  As some Kale may have a bitter taste.  Adjust accordingly

Notes

Superfood Kale Pesto - Jamie's Italian Buyer's guide

NOTES:
You can use different nuts such as walnut, cashew (my favourite and creamier!), Pine nuts (my daughter’s favourite), you can use Brazil nuts (buttery) and Macadamia nuts they are creamier too wouldn’t think of Pistachios though ????!
You can add more olive oil to thin it down and also helps in preserving pesto.  If you are using it in pasta you can even thin it down with a dash of cooked pasta water too.   Store it in air tight container in the refrigerator covered for up to a week.  I suppose you can also freeze pesto in Ice cube trays. Once frozen transfer them to freezer bags and use them as needed but don’t forget to thaw it.

FOR VEGAN VERSION: Use Nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese or completely omit it.
FOR NUT FREE VERSION:  You seeds of Sunflower, Linseed, Pumpkin seeds, or any other seeds instead of nuts.  But use it in less quantity otherwise it might dominate the taste of pesto.

The post Kale and Almond Pesto - Jamie's Italian Olive Oil Buyer's Guide appeared first on My Veg Fare.

Eating greens are something I love, At least weekly thrice I use different greens in my cooking.  when I was in India, I used to use greens every day!  But, In India you get so many different varieties as I am in India right now I will try and introduce all the greens I used to use back in those days when I used to live here.  I miss them so much especially my hubby! Every day I used to just cook one of the varieties with a dash of salt and serve him!

This boy used to bring different kinds of greens in a big tokari / Butti (Basket oven with jute) tied to a cycle and a big wet cloth on top of it so the greens remain fresh until he sells everything!  He used to hang a bottle of water to the handle and sprinkle water now and then to keep it fresh.  Some of them use Gonicheela (Go-ni-chee-la) made with jute! Which stays wet for a long time and keeps the greens fresh.  My favourite which he always used to get me was Gongkura or Gonkura!

Today I am introducing you to these beautiful greens called Chakothne or Chakkotha spelled as Cha-ko-th-ne and Soppu spelt as so-oppu!!  Soppu means Greens!  I tried searching for an English name for this and the nearest I have come to is – It’s called Mountain Spinach! When I read the Wikipedia article I thought it might be the same!  Anyways If you are in Karnataka try this green and I am sure you will love it.

Chakothne soppu or Mountain spinach are very low in calories and fats.  Its leaves hold a good amount of soluble dietary fiber.  It is rich in Nutrients like Vitamin – K, C, E, B Minerals – Iron, Calcium, Potassium, and Magnesium.

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Chakothne soppu (Mountain Spinach Yogurt gravy) Majjigehuli / Morkuzhambu

The greens in this Yogurt gravy is so delicious and goes very well with rice or Raagi Mudde ( Finger Millet Balls)

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes minutes

Total Time 35 minutes minutes

Servings 4

Ingredients

• 1 Big Bunch Chakkotha / Chakkothne (Mountain Spinach)
• 2 cups slightly Soured thick Yogurt (curd)

Ingredients to Grind

• 3 tbsp channa dal soaked
• 3 numbers Green chillies
• 3 number Dry Red Chillies
• 1 tbsp coriander seeds (optional)
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1/4 cup freshly grated coconut
• 1/4 cup Chopped coriander leaves ( 5 sprigs)
• 1/4 cup water

seasonings

• 2 tsp coconut oil (or any other oil)

Instructions

• First, you need to soak channa dal for at least an hour.
• Meanwhile remove the thick hardy stem from the greens in the stalk below and rest of them give a good rinse thoroughly so there is no mud or sand stuck to them.
• Then chop the greens finely and Cook the greens in ½ cup of water. I use my pressure cooker and cook the greens up to two whistles. You can also cook in a thick bottomed container but then you need to keep an eye on it and keep adding water as you don’t want it get stuck to the bottom while cooking as the water evaporates steadily.
• Grind ingredients mentioned under the Ingredients to grind to a smooth paste using the water mentioned in the list.
• Once the Greens are cooked take them in a thick bottomed container with the water to this add the ground smooth paste, mix well, and allow it to boil. This helps in masala getting absorbed into the greens and the raw smell of the masala disappears.
• Just keep an eye keep stirring now and then as it starts to thicken add extra water if needed probably ¼ cup or so then it won’t get stuck to the bottom. The Dal and coconut helps in thickening quickly, so don’t forget to monitor after 5 to 8 minutes add required amount of salt.
• Beat the curd/yogurt, reduce the flame to sim pour it to the cooking greens masala mix well and allow it cook for few more minutes keep stirring. If you cook in a medium flame you need to keep an eye on the yogurt gravy if it boils too much the yogurt splits!!
• To monitor this, you can notice small bubbles forming at the edge of the container that is when you switch of the stove and place it on to a heat resisting mat. If you leave it on the stove the heat of the stove may curdle the gravy and the real consistency of the Majjige huli will disappear.

Notes

Don’t use too sour curds.
Don’t forget to monitor the gravy when it is cooking after you add yogurt.
I have used a just ¼ cup of coconut you can use more and reduce the quantity of channa dal to ½ the quantity mentioned above.
You can use a combination of both the chilies or just use any one of them. Preferably green chilies are used.  If having health problems like IBS wherein you are allowed to use green chilies use dry red chilies.
You can substitute it with spinach as well.
Check this post for different kind of vegetables I use to make Majjige Huli / Morkuzhambu and don’t forget to check the Notes.

The post Chakotha soppu (Mountain Spinach Yogurt gravy) Majjigehuli / Morkuzhambu appeared first on My Veg Fare.

Idli consists of very minimal ingredients, nothing should go wrong right? but, it does surprise? and why south Indians are crazy over this is a million dollar question? Every time asking each other if the  Idlies turned out perfectly.  These pillowy soft cakes are just a perfection of art!  don't be surprised if it doesn't turn out well!!  Ground to perfection and the right fermentation is very important. Here is a little study for you to know about Idly, source: Wikipedia.
idly:Idli (English pronunciation: /ˈɪdliː/, also romanized "idly" or "iddly", plural "idlis") is a savory cake popular throughout South India.  It is made by steaming a batter consisting of fermented black lentils (de-husked) and rice. The fermentation process breaks down the starches so that they are more readily metabolized by the body. The originations of Idlis are unclear with the earliest mention in writing occurring in Kannada writing of Shivakotiacharya in 920 AD.
Idli has a long history in southern Indian cuisine. One mention of it in writings occurs in the Kannada writing of Shivakotiacharya in 920 AD, and it seems to have started as a dish made only of fermented black lentil. Chavundaraya II, the author of the earliest available Kannada encyclopedia, Lokopakara (c. 1025), describes the preparation of idli by soaking urad dal (black gram) in buttermilk, ground to a fine paste and mixed with the clear water of curd, and spices. The Kannada king and scholar Someshwara III, reigning in the area now called Karnataka, included an idli recipe in his encyclopedia, The Manasollasa, written in Sanskrit ca. 1130 A.D. There is no known record of rice being added until some time in the 17th century. It may have been found that the rice helped speed the fermentation process. Although the ingredients used in preparing idli have changed, the preparation process and the name have still remained the same.

The Gujarati work Varanaka Samuchaya (1520 CE) mentions idli as idari, and also mentions its local adoption idada (a non-fermented version of dhokla. The earliest extant Tamil work to mention idli (as itali) is Maccapuranam, dated to the 17th century.
I love making Idlis with different Ingredients, I have shared a few Idly recipes here and soon will post some more Idly(two ways), Sweet corn Idlies, Kodo Millet Idli,  Moong dal Idli, Oats, Sweet corn, and Lapsi Idli.
Coming back to this Idli recipe, This recipe has been in my draft from past 2 to 3 years I think!. why Mango Idli? I know you might be wondering; well for so many reasons! I love Mangoes (who doesn't? Eh? right) and my most favourite is mango rice ( because I like savory dishes!!)  I simply love Mango Rice, and after that, I have 101 reasons to love Mangoes! It's Mango season in India now and you get so many varieties of Mangoes from tart to the sweetest in different shapes and flavours.  I can list a lot of varieties of mangoes and in that my favourite is Totapuri Maavinkaayi (A mango shaped like a parrot) which I love to eat it just like that ! this is so yummy with just simple salt and chili powder brings back a lot of childhood memories.
This Idli is made with Instant Idli mix which I regularly make at home from the past few years now.  I started making these ready made Idli and Dosa mix and few more ready mixes when my better half used to stay away from home and these ready-made mixes helped him have his favourite breakfasts.

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Mango Idli two ways (Maavinkaayi Idli) Instant and Regular method

A south Indian breakfast made with Mango!! make it with sour or semi-sweet Mangoes, these are so delicious and spicy and can be eaten on its own with a dollop of ghee or serve it with coconut chutney.

Prep Time 30 minutes minutes

Cook Time 12 minutes minutes

Total Time 47 minutes minutes

Servings 4

Ingredients

• 2 Cups Rice Rava (check notes)
• 1 or 1/2 cup Poha (thin or thick) (check notes and method)
• 1/2 cup Sago pearls / Saboodana / Tapioca pearls
• 1/2 cup Urad Dal flour
• 1/2 tsp Fenugreek powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 Cup Sour Butter milk (check notes)
• water as required
• 1/2 tsp Eno Fruit salt (check notes)

Seasoning for the batter

• 1 tbsp oil
• 4 to 5 Green chillies
• 1 tbsp channa dal
• 1/2 tbsp Urad dal
• 1 sprig curry leaves chopped
• 1/4 cup finely chopped coriander leaves

For Mango Idli

• 1 cup grated Mango (check notes)
• 1/3 cup freshly grated coconut

Instructions

• Check the Notes on how I make Rice Rava, choose either one of the methods to make rice rava or instead you can use store bought.
• Next make poha ready check my notes on how I use, You might be wondering when I said thin and thick poha 1/2 cup, thin poha occupies more space but the quantity will be less so use 1 cup poha when using thin poha. When using thick poha grind it to a powder and measure the quantity.
• Next is Sabudana or Tapioca pearls grind them to a powder.
• Next is Urad dal flour give it a fry in tawa for a minute in a low flame just so the flour is slightly warm to touch Next is fenugreek, use store bought or make it in your home. fry fenugreek in a kadai without oil in a low flame until it turns to golden colour let it cool then fine powder it in your mixie. Sieve and use the fine powder in this method.
• Mix all the above said ingredients and you can store it in a jar and use it whenever you plan to make idlis, This is your ready made mix

For the Mango Idli

• Make the seasoning or tadka with the ingredients said above, In a low flame heat a tbsp of oil add chillies, when they change colour add channa and urad dal, when they change colour slightly, switch off the stove add chopped curry leaves fry for a minute and coriander leaves and set it aside to cool down.
  
• Meanwhile take the ready mix in a large bowl, to this mix the grated Mango and grated coconut you can even add grated ginger which is optional with salt thoroughtly. To this add the wet ingredients mentioned above start with the yogurt/buttermilk and leave it for 5 minutes.
• when you leave it to obsorb the moisture, grease the Idli plates with oil or Ghee whatever you prefer, this helps in the Idlis to unmould easily once they are cooked.
• The dry ingredients would have obsorbed the moisture from the Mangoes, coconut and the butter milk by this time, now to this start adding water and make it into a Idli batter consistency. Now to this add Eno fruit salt and mix it throughly.
• pour the batter on to the greased moulds and steam in a pressure cooker with out the weight for 12 to 14 minutes in a medium flame. Once done, take them out of the cooker and leave it on the platform so they cool slightly unmould the idlis from the mould and serve these with coconut chutney!! Enjoy!!

How to make Mango Idli with your regular Idli batter

• It's very simple follow the same method said above only thing you change is adding the grated Mango and coconut to the regular batter and adding the tadka / seasoning mix well together and Viola Mango Idli batter is ready to steam away!! cook and enjoy!!

Notes

To make Rice Rava I use two methods:
when I don't have time:  I just grind rice in quick mode that is I quickly grind it in short bursts  and make it into a rava in my indian mixie.
When I don't have time: I wash and then leave it to drain for 10 minutes then fry it in a wok for few minutes, when it cools down grind it into a rava consistency.

Optional Instead of Rava: Instead of Rava you can use Rice flour, Millet flour ( when using millet flour I use Rice and Millet 1 and 1 of each)

I use poha in two different ways, when I get hold of thin poha I wash it and soak it in buttermilk and mash it with my hand as it is mashable,  If I get hold of thick poha

Using Buttermilk:  You can use butteirmilk if you don't have buttermilk, you can mix 1/2 cup of sour curds/yogurt with 1/2 cup water blend it well and your buttermilk is ready. Or you can use just use 1 cup of yogurt.
Why we need Buttermilk:  Buttermilk/sour curd acts as an acidic agent and helps in fermentation.
Why we need Eno Fruit Salt: This acts as a leavening agent and helps in rising and getting that fluffiness in Idlies.

Not using Buttermilk: If you do not want to use buttermilk you can mix all the dry Ingredients expect curds/buttermilk and eno mix it with water as required to make it to a batter consistency and leave it to ferment overnight!! it's as simple and next day you can make idlis as usual.

Mango Idli: I have used two medium sized mangoes.  It came up to 1 cup loosely packed.

Water as required: Use water as required to make it into a Idli batter consistency.

The post Mango Idli two ways (Maavinkaayi Idli) Instant and Regular !! appeared first on My Veg Fare.

Millets or Siri Dhaanya ( Rich Grains) have taken over especially in south India, because of its fiber-rich and diabetic friendly ingredient.

Coming from a cold climate to a nearly warm climate is a drastic change right? can't believe I am back in India for some time,  Have you noticed something? These days everything from aeons ago is back into fashion!! it may be a dress code,   hairstyle or food.

Nowadays people are becoming more and more health-conscious; paying attention to what they eat and how they eat it. One such food item that has had a great comeback is Millets!!

Millets have a high nutritional value, they are recently gaining popularity because they are particularly good for diabetics, as they have high fiber content and they are gluten-free.  They are very rich in proteins, B Vitamins, Calcium, Iron, potassium, etc.

Millet is one of the digestible and non-allergenic grains available, as it is rich in fiber content it is said to be good for people suffering from Type 2 diabetes, as it has a low glycemic index. It is said that the Magnesium in millet can help reduce the effects of migraines and heart attacks.  Niacin (vitamin B3) in millets can help lower cholesterol.

Millets consumption decreases triglycerides and C-reactive protein.  The best part of these wholesome grains is they have a very high protein content, making it a substantial addition to a vegan and vegetarian diet.  Millets have become an integral part of the diet in India now!

Millets can be used instead of rice, It's just a small thing which you should know how to cook some of them if you are going to use it instead of rice.  Using them in Idlis or Dosas are very easy.  The most loved millet is Kodo millet, works perfectly instead of rice.

I have used this in Millet in many ways this is one of them, a perfect breakfast dish if you are a south Indian, you wouldn't definitely say no!  These  Idlis are so perfect and pillowy soft-serve it with a side dish of your choice.

Kodo Millet Idli (Kodo Millet steamed dumplings) #Varagarasi, #Kodra, #Arka, #Koovaragu
(A South Indian Breakfast which is almost gluten-free, can be made completely gluten-free, pillowy soft steam-cooked Indian dumplings go very well any spicy side wish)
Recipe Author: Jayasri
Recipe Type: Breakfast
Prep time: 12 hours
Cook time: 13 to 15 minutes
Shelf Life: 1 week
Serves: 5

Ingredients:

2 cups kodo millet(varagu/Arka)
1 Cups Rice
1 tbsp Fenugreek seeds
1 cup urad dal
½ cup Poha / avalakki
1 ½ cup water (approximately)
2 tsp salt

Method:

I use different methods to choose which one you would prefer and use it.  Soak all the above ingredients for 4 to 5 hours.

1. Soak separately Kodo millet and fenugreek seed. Soak Rice separately. Soak Urad dal and poha separately. In your wet grinder add fenugreek seeds and Kodo millet together, fenugreek seeds fluff up nicely grind until smooth to this add poha and urad dal, grind it smoothly. Next, add rice grind it until almost smooth. (Remember to wash poha very well and when I soak poha separately it uses all the water, in which I soak so don’t panic add enough water so it becomes soft)
2. Soak Rice, Fenugreek seeds and Kodo millet together, Urad dal and Poha separately. Grind urad dal and poha together add little water now and then until it fluffs up beautifully smooth and silky it usually doubles in size like a cotton ball, when you pick up the batter it shouldn’t stick to your hands. That’s when you know you have ground it perfectly well.  Remove this from the grinder into a large vessel now to this add rice, Kodo millet and fenugreek seeds and grind it smoothly.  Using water little by little.  Add this to the ground Urad dal batter and mix well.
3. Soak Rice and Kodo millet together. Soak Urad dal separately. Fenugreek and poha together.  Drain rice and millet for some time.   Spread it on a cloth for some time still, then roast in a wok in a for few minutes, in a low flame adding little by little (fistful).  It turns white in colour, once done allow it to cool down.  Meanwhile, grind fenugreek and poha together adding little water at a time then add urad dal and grind it into a smooth batter. Once the rice mixture is cool pound it in a mixie to an almost coarse smooth powder.  Mix this mixture into urad dal batter and allow it to ferment.

Using any one of the above three methods, grind and allow the batter to ferment for at least 8 to 10 hours depending on the place you stay. If you are in warm temperature it usually starts fermenting within 6 to 7 hours, so it totally depends on the place you live.

If it is a very cold climate it takes longer to ferment so It’s better to keep it in a warm place like a boiler room or near the heater or you can use electric oven switching on just the light.

Once it is fermented add salt mix well together, apply oil onto the Idli plates, fill it with the batter 3/4^th of the moulds.  If you are using your pressure cooker allow it to steam for 13 to 15 minutes without the whistle. You can cover the whistle with an inverted steel tumbler for at least 7 to 8 minutes then remove it and allow it to cook for another 7 to 6 minutes.

Some Notes to remember:

If you are using the idli cooker it’s the same method the lid opens on its own once the idli is done.  Press it back again bring the stove to low flame leave it for another 2 minutes it pops up back again then it's done.  Switch off the stove.

A little trick to get proper round moulds of the idlis is.  when you keep the plates on top of the other see to it that the holes come underneath the batter mold and the other thing is, do not put the little screw into the stand use it only when you lift the stand after the idlis are done this way it helps in fluffing of the idlis properly.

Serve the Idlis with sambar, chutney or anything of your choice.

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Kodo Millet Idli (Kodo Millet steamed dumplings) #Varagarasi, #Kodra, #Arka, #Koovaragu

(A South Indian Breakfast which is almost gluten free, can be made completely gluten free, pillowy soft steam cooked Indian dumplings goes very well any spicy side wish)

Course Breakfast

Cuisine Indian / south Indian

Prep Time 12 minutes minutes

Cook Time 13 minutes minutes

Total Time 25 minutes minutes

Servings 35

Author Jayasri

Ingredients

• 2 cups kodo millet varagu/Arka
• 1 Cups Rice
• 1 tbsp Fenugreek seeds
• 1 cup urad dal
• ½ cup Poha / avalakki
• 1 ½ cup water approximately
• 2 tsp salt

Instructions

• I use different methods choose which one you would prefer and use it. Soak all the above ingredients for 4 to 5 hours.
• Soak separately kodo millet and fenugreek seed. Soak Rice separately. Soak Urad dal and poha separately. In your wet grinder add fenugreek seeds and Kodo millet together, fenugreek seeds fluff up nicely grind until smooth to this add poha and urad dal, grind it smoothly. Next add rice grind it until almost smooth. (Remember to wash poha very well and when I soak poha separately it uses all the water, in which I soak so don’t panic add enough water so it becomes soft)
• Soak Rice, Fenugreek seeds and kodo millet together, Urad dal and Poha separately. Grind urad dal and poha together add little water now and then until it fluffs up beautifully smooth and silky it usually doubles in size like a cotton ball, when you pick up the batter it shouldn’t stick to your hands. That’s when you know you have ground it perfectly well. Remove this from the grinder into a large vessel now to this add rice, kodo millet and fenugreek seeds and grind it smoothly. Using water little by little. Add this to the ground Urad dal batter and mix well.
• Soak Rice and kodo millet together. Soak Urad dal separately. Fenugreek and poha together. Drain rice and millet for some time. Spread it on a cloth for some time still, then roast in a wok in a for few minutes, in a low flame adding little by little (fistful). It turns white in colour, once done allow it to cool down. Meanwhile grind fenugreek and poha together adding little water at a time then add urad dal and grind it into a smooth batter. Once the rice mixture is cool pound it in a mixie to almost coarse smooth powder. Mix this mixture into urad dal batter and allow it to ferment.
• Using any one of the above three methods, grind and allow the batter to ferment for at least 8 to 10 hours depending on the place you stay. If you are in warm temperature it usually starts fermenting within 6 to 7 hours, so it totally depends on the place you live.
• If it is a very cold climate it takes longer to ferment so It’s better to keep it in a warm place like boiler room or near the heater or you can use electric oven switching on just the light.
• Once it is fermented add salt mix well together, apply oil on to the Idli plates, fill it with the batter 3/4th of the moulds. If you are using your pressure cooker allow it to steam for 13 to 15 minutes without the whistle. You can cover the whistle with a inverted steel tumbler for at least 7 to 8 minutes then remove it and allow it cook for another 7 to 6 minutes.
• If you are using the idli cooker it’s the same method the lid opens on its own once the idli is done. Press it back again bring the stove to low flame leave it for another 2 minutes it pops up back again then its done. Switch off the stove.

Notes

A little trick to get proper round moulds of the idlies is. when you keep the plates one top of the other see to it that the wholes come underneath the batter mould and the other thing is do not put the little screw into the stand use it only when you lift the stand after the idlis are done this way it helps in fluffing of the idlies properly.
Serve the Idlis with sambar, chutney or anything of your choice

The post Kodo Millet Idli (Kodo Millet steamed dumplings) #Varagarasi, #Kodra, #Arka, #Koovaragu appeared first on My Veg Fare.

Life has been very busy these days, I never relax during holidays it's because  I visit India during our summer vacation.  I would loads of errands to complete during my visit and I usually running around doing things.  The only thing I don't do is cooking and baking.  Most of the time it's my Mum, sisters, or my relatives and friends who do it for me as I visit them.  I miss Britain during summer as I love it there! It's because  for a lot of reasons  like the Sun, Flowers, Greenery, and the best of everything is my Garden.  I  love gardening and growing my own veggies, fruits, herbs, and flowers are my favourite hobby.

I will share you some of my Garden plants in my next post, hubby was telling me that there is a heat wave next two weeks and it's going to be very very hot, hope my plants survive the blazing sun rays.

When it's hot or even warm I love to eat more fruits especially fruits with a lot of water content as its going to keep me hydrated.  My kitchen gets too hot during summer because of the conservatory and I don't like spending too much time standing there!! Nothing wrong right?

Every summer reminds me of Indian summer, I go through my memory lane thinking about what I used to relish during those hot summer months, what my parents used to give me to eat ? what were my food habits ? (monitored by my parents, even today they keep advising me what to eat and what not to eat!) Most Indian food habits are usually blended with Ayurveda an alternative to our regular Medicine.  Even doctors here tend to introduce you to Ayurvedic way of food habits!  Ayurveda is an age old way of treating ailments with herbs, roots, and other natural resources available. Ayurvedic way of treating depends on the doshas (Vata, pitta, Kapha) the three elements which balance in good health and any imbalance leads to diseases!  Most Indian houses adapt to simple home remedies and treat common diseases with minimal ingredients found in our masala

Ayurveda is an age old way of treating ailments with herbs, roots, and other natural resources available. Ayurvedic way of treating depends on the doshas (Vata, pitta, Kapha) the three elements which balance in good health and any imbalance leads to diseases!  Most Indian houses adapt to simple home remedies and treat common diseases with minimal ingredients found in our masala dabbas and these shops (Grandhige Angadi) which sell the roots and seeds used in ayurvedic treatments.

I am used to and still use lot of things from my kitchen pantry as my medicines to deal with common cold, cough, headaches and tend to understand the way my body feels and adapt it in my food habits.  As I wouldn't drink lot of water, my mom always made sure I ate lot of fruits and vegetables which had lot of water content in it,  she always made loads of salads for us to enjoy when we came back from school and still today I enjoy these salads which have minimal ingredients and still tastes awesome.

Watermelon and Tomato salad ( Juicy Tomatoes and sweet Watermelon in a mild spice and sweet dressing)
Cuisine : Indian
Recipe Type : Salad
Prep time : 10 minutes
Cook time : None
Serves : 4
Shelf time : Best served fresh or chill can chill and serve
Recipe Author: Jayasri

Ingredients:

3 Cups of chopped Watermelon
1 to 2 cups of Tomatoes
2 tbsp of Sugar / honey / maple syrup depending on sweetness*
1/2 tsp salt as required*
1 to 2 tsp Black Pepper crushed coarsely as required
1 or 2 tbsp of Mint leaves (optional)

*Check Notes

Method:

Chop Watermelon into cubes using just the red portion of it, try and deseed as much as possible too much into it will give out a lot of juice and makes the fruit crumbled or mushy!
I have used assorted Tomatoes as I get it here, But you can just fresh juicy tomatoes which you can find in Indian markets.
I have used sugar here  with  salt and pepper (check my notes)
Take the fruits in a bowl toss them with the spices listed, serve it fresh or serve it chilled.
You can add mint if desired.

Notes:

You can serve it as an Accompaniment or just as a salad
You can use only sugar or only salt and pepper
It was important to use salt and pepper during summer as watermelon sometimes would cause cold to some people, Black Pepper has heat in it ( In ayurveda black pepper wards of cold) helps in warding off cold.

You can even add Yogurt/ Curds and enjoy it.

Enjoy this really delicious summer salad, It not only keeps you hydrated and makes you feel fresh.

The post watermelon and Tomato salad appeared first on My Veg Fare.

WHAT IS RAGI?

Ragi or Finger Millet (Eleusine Coracana) is an annual plant.  Earliest records of this show it was cultivated in India, particularly in the southern parts of India especially in the regions of Karnataka.  It is a staple diet in Karnataka, It is also called poor man's protein diet.  It was referred to  as 'famine crop' or 'Poor man's crop' as it was always seen as farmers staple food,  making little balls out of the flour which is called as 'Ragi Balls' or  called in Kannada as 'Ragi mudde' (will post the recipe soon) was and still is his diet when he went farming.  This is still used as an important part of our diet in rural parts in Karnataka.  This is very fulfilling and keeps your hunger at bay.

WHY RAGI AS BREAKFAST?

Breakfast is a quintessential part of our daily life, it is the most important meal of the day. You can indulge with tempting, tasty and healthy recipes, and make your breakfast a worthwhile. Ragi is one of the most nutritional and healthy grain.  Breakfast with Ragi is very fulfilling and keeps your hunger at bay.

Even as a kid I used to like it, My children wouldn't eat because of the colour.  Nowadays they have started liking it.  Especially they love it when I make this Semiya (Noodles) dish and it doesn't even taste like Ragi!  that's their verdict.  So, now this is always in my breakfast list.  Children happy so Mummy is happy when they eat healthy food.

RAGI IN VARIOUS DIETS

In my state(Karnataka), we make a special diet for babies using this flour and is called as ' Ragi Siri' (Homemade Baby food)! (will post the recipe).  My children grew up eating Ragi siri!!  These days people have realized the nutritive value of this little grain, even in urban areas, now when I visit India (Karnataka) I have started seeing them in restaurants!!

Benefits of Ragi are said to control Diabetes, Osteoporosis, Cancer, and a lot more. It is said that Ragi is said to be rich in protein which is easily absorbed by the human body.  It is also rich in Calcium, phosphorus, potassium, and Iron.  It is said that Ragi reduces cholesterol. It is also gluten-free.

RAGI AS A MILLET

Among the millets, comparable to foxtail millet and Kodo millet, studies have also shown that finger millet controls blood glucose levels, hyperglycemia, and oxidative stress. Finger millet has also shown promise in accelerating wound healing among diabetics. Diabetic patients are advised to eat Finger Millet for this reason.

That's a lot of things we have come to know of this little grain, let's get to the recipe then, on how to make Ragi Semiya (Noodles).

RAGI / FINGER MILLET OTTU SHAVIGE OR SEMIYA (NOODLES / VERMICELLI)
Vegan South Indian Karnataka Style fresh Homemade semiya (Noodles)
Recipe Type: Breakfast
Cuisine: Indian
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Recipe Author: Jayasri

Ingredients:
1 Cup Ragi / Finger Millet Flour
1 & 1/2 Cup Water
1 tsp Oil
1 tsp salt

Method:
In a heavy-bottomed vessel add water and a tsp of oil and salt allow it to boil. Once it starts boiling bring it to a low flame. In a cup take 1 to 2 tbsp of water and dissolve a tsp of ragi flour dissolve it and add it to the boiling water, after a minute add the flour into the vessel in the middle and immerse a wooden stick or a spatula or label in it.

Close the lid (it won't close completely) not to worry. Leave it for 7 to 8 minutes, water starts rising to cover the flour. Remove the lid and switch off the stove, stir vigorously to bring all the flour together, sprinkle little more water and close the lid.
After 2 minutes, remove it on to a plate. It will be very hot so dip your hand in water every time, start bringing the dough together into a dough ball. Knead the dough into a smooth ball.
Now your base for the Ragi Semiya (Noodles / Ottu shavige) dough is ready.

HOW TO MAKE RAGI SEMIYA  (NOODLES) / OTTU SHAVIGE:

Once the dough is ready to use a Shavige maker or Chakkuli maker to make Ottu shavige. Make around 3 balls fill it into the dough maker and press it. Use the Thenzgol press or the Omam Pudi press which has large holes or small holes whichever you choose and make the Shavige.

Press the shavige into Idli plates or some vessel you can use for a steamer. Place it in a cooker and steam just like you make Idlies for 12 to 15 minutes.
Take it out and spread it on a plate so they don't One another.

I have made a powder to use for the Bath, Here is how you make that powder to the Bath

CURRY LEAVES POWDER:
INGREDIENTS:
1 & 1/2 Tbsp Channa Dal
1/2 tbsp Urad Dal
25 curry Leaves
1 tsp Black Pepper
2 flakes of Tamarind
1/2 tsp Oil

METHOD:
In a wok fry with a tsp of oil, all the above said ingredients until a nice aroma comes out and the dals change colour. Once the dals cool down powder it and keep it ready.

HOW TO MAKE RAGI SEMIYA (NOODLES) / OTTU SHAVIGE BATH:

INGREDIENTS:
3 to 4 Tbsp of oil
1 tsp mustard seeds
1 tbsp of channa dal
1/2 tbsp of urad dal
few curry leaves
1/4 fresh coconut
few coriander leaves
Salt as required

METHOD:
In a large wok, heat oil add mustard seeds, once they splutter add the green chilies, dals and curry leaves and fry for few minutes in a medium flame once they change colour.
Add the steamed Ottu shavige and salt as required mix well and carefully so they don't break up, then add the curry leaves powder around 3 to 4 tbsp (use it as per your taste).
Mix everything well close a lid and leave it for 2 to 3 minutes.
After 3 minutes switch of the stove remove the lid sprinkle fresh coconut and chopped fresh coriander leaves thoroughly mix everything together.
Serve warm and enjoy this Ragi Semiya (noodles).

Verdict: My family loves it, according to my children you won't even know that it is made of Ragi.

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Ragi / Finger Millet Semiya (Noodles)

Most delicious and healthy breakfast which you would be fulfilling and no compromise on taste

Course Breakfast

Cuisine Indian

Prep Time 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time 40 minutes minutes

Total Time 1 hour hour

Servings 3

Author Jayasri

Ingredients

• INGREDIENTS FOR MAKING OTTU SHAVIGE
• 1 Cup Ragi / Finger Millet Flour
• 1 & 1/2 Cup Water
• 1 tsp Oil
• 1 tsp salt
• CURRY LEAVES POWDER FOR RAGI OTTU SHAVIGE BATH
• INGREDIENTS:
• 1 & 1/2 Tbsp Channa Dal
• 1/2 tbsp Urad Dal
• 25 curry Leaves
• 1 tsp Black Pepper
• 2 flakes of Tamarind
• 1/2 tsp Oil
• In a wok fry with a tsp of oil all the above said ingredients until a nice aroma comes out and the dals change colour. Once the dals cool down powder it and keep it ready.
• INGREDIENTS TO MAKE RAGI OTTU SHAVIGE BATH:
• 3 to 4 Tbsp of oil
• 1 tsp mustard seeds
• 1 tbsp of channa dal
• 1/2 tbsp of urad dal
• few curry leaves
• 1/4 fresh coconut
• few coriander leaves
• Salt as required

Instructions

• METHOD FOR MAKING OTTU SHAVIGE:
• In a heavy-bottomed vessel add water and a tsp of oil and salt allow it to boil. Once it starts boiling bring it to a low flame. In a cup take 1 to 2 tbsp of water and dissolve a tsp of ragi flour dissolve it and add it to the boiling water, after a minute add the flour into the vessel in the middle and immerse a wooden stick or a spatula or label in it. Close the lid (it won't close completely) not to worry. Leave it for 7 to 8 minutes, water starts rising to cover the flour. Remove the lid and switch of the stove, stir vigorously to bring all the flour together, sprinkle little more water and close the lid.
• After 2 minutes, remove it on to a plate. It will be very hot so dip your hand in water every time, start bringing the dough together into a dough ball. Knead the dough into a smooth ball.
• Now your base for the Ottu shavige dough is ready.
• HOW TO MAKE RAGI OTTU SHAVIGE / SEMIYA:
• Once the dough is ready to use a Shavige maker or Chakkuli maker to make Ottu shavige. Make around 3 balls fill it into the dough maker and press it. Use the Thenzgol press or the Omam Pudi press which has large holes or small holes whichever you choose and make the Shavige.
• Press the shavige into Idli plates or some vessel you can use for steamer. Place it in a cooker and steam just like you make Idlies for 12 to 15 minutes.
• Take it out and spread it on a plate so they don't One another.
• HOW TO MAKE RAGI OTTU SHAVIGE BATH:
• In a wok fry with a tsp of oil, all the above said ingredients until a nice aroma comes out and the dals change colour. Once the dals cool down powder it and keep it ready.

Notes

When using the curry leaves powder to use it according to your taste you can increase or decrease the powder to your liking.
When mixing the Ottu shavige handle it carefully so they don't break up too much.
Using of Green chilies is optional.

The post Ragi / Finger Millet Semiya (Noodles) appeared first on My Veg Fare.

When the cookie monster attacks you, you can't just eat one and leave it especially these cookies :),  That's how my kids feel when they eat these cookies.  My children have declared that  this is the best cookie their mamma makes.  This is the best oatmeal cookies you can dream off.  I mean you can think off.  I would actually like to dedicate this cookie to my dear friend Madhuri, she loved them so much, she kept pestering me to post the recipe ( this was around 2 years back!! ) at last I made it to the blog!. I have been making these from around 3 to 4 years back, I know I never posted it.  It was usually in a jiffy I used to make it for some reason or the other, either to pack it for my kids or gift it to somebody and never got time to take photos, Oh! No, I did once but they were crap so discarded them.

These cookies are a killer combination, I would say combination made in heaven. If you have visited my blog you would notice that I love orange and chocolate combination a lot, works out perfectly a match made in heaven. I would say just like Tomato, Mozzarella, and Basil on a Bruchetta.

 I would actually like to dedicate this cookie to my dear friend Madhuri, she loved them so much, she kept pestering me to post the recipe ( this was around 2 years back!! ) at last I made it to the blog!. I have been making these from around 3 to 4 years back, I know! you did guess it right ? I never posted it.  It was usually in a jiffy I used to make these cookies either to pack it for my kids or gift it to somebody and never got time to take photos.  Oh! No, I did once but they were crap so I have discarded them.  Now, don't go there, I know what you are thinking :), do you (me) rate that these cookie photos are good? well, then I would say to my caliber I think they are Ok! Aha...

This is my top notch recipe. Everybody who has tasted my cookie love it.  I have always got a good feedback from everybody.  You should try it out and tell me if you like it.  Baking cookies is an easy peasy job and also kids would love to get involved, They are all grown up now and they don't get time to do things which they enjoyed when they were little.

Did I tell you, we had been getting some jobs done in our house and we had people working for various jobs and I fed them with my cookies and asking them about how they would rate it.  I remember one chap thinking!! he started munching and went on saying Mmm.., these are really delicious I can get the taste of orange and it really is crispy and chewy and very tasty.  This was my recent appreciation which I received from somebody whom I never knew before because I told them I was a blogger and would really appreciate their honest opinion.  what else would I need, one happy satisfied baker, they even asked me for the recipe!

Orange, Oates, Raisin and Chocolate chip Cookies

Recipe Author: Jayasri
Recipe Type: Breakfast/Tea-time snack
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Shelf time: 4 to 5 days
Makes: 15 to 18 cookies

Ingredients:

1 ¾ (175 grms) Cup Rolled Oats
50 grms ( 1/3 cup) Whole wheat flour (atta)
75 grm Butter
½ tsp Baking powder
1/8 th tsp Baking Soda
1 Cup Orange Juice ( from 2 Oranges)
2/3 cup Brown Sugar
¼ cup Raisins (dried grapes)
¼ cup Chocolate chips
2 to 3 tbsp of Orange zest

Method:

Zest the Oranges, Squeeze the Orange juice ( I got nearly one cup of orange juice minus 1 tbsp) and keep aside

Take a large bowl take butter and sugar blend them well until well combined.  To this add Oats, whole wheat flour mix them with your hand until they resemble like crumbs to this Baking powder and Baking soda. Mix well.

Mix Oats, whole wheat flour , Baking powder and Baking soda. Take these dried ingredients and mix well with the above mixture using your hands they will resemble like crumbs.

Add Orange juice and zest and make it into a dough-like consistency, to this add chocolate chips and Raisins.

The dough will be a bit sticky not to worry it will be fine.  At this stage put it in a refrigerator for 1/2 to 1 hour.

Preheat the oven to 180 degrees for  15 minutes.

Take a cookie sheet place a parchment paper, using a scoop make round balls and flatten them a bit and place them on the sheet with a gap of 1 to 1/2''.

Place the cookie sheet and bake for 15 minutes depending upon your oven temperature.  you will notice that it is turning into golden in colour.  Take it out and allow it cool, before munching.

Notes:

1. I have baked these cookies many  times in different ways.  I have used just oats only without any flour and it turns out really well.
2. You can bake it with one large Egg if you like to use egg in your baking.
3. You can substitute all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat flour.
4. So, which Oats to use? you can use any Oats, I use porridge oats or Rolled oats, If the Oats are thick just grind it into a powder and use it as needed.

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Orange, Oats and Raisin chocolate chip Cookies - Eggless

These cookies are so delicious with the goodness of Oats and Raisins and with bursting flavours from the Oranges

Course Breakfast/on the go

Cuisine International Cuisine

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes minutes

Total Time 25 minutes minutes

Servings 15 -18

Author Jayasri

Ingredients

• 1 ¾ 175 grms Cup Rolled Oats
• 50 grms 1/3 cup Whole wheat flour (atta)
• 75 grm Butter
• ½ tsp Baking powder
• 1/8 th tsp Baking Soda
• 1 Cup Orange Juice from 2 Oranges
• 2/3 cup Brown Sugar
• ¼ cup Raisins dried grapes
• ¼ cup Chocolate chips
• 2 to 3 tbsp of Orange zest

Instructions

• Zest the Oranges, Squeeze the Orange juice ( I got nearly one cup of orange juice minus 1 tbsp) and keep aside
• Take a large bowl take butter and sugar blend them well until well combined. To this add Oats, whole wheat flour mix them with your hand until they resemble like crumbs to this Baking powder and Baking soda. Mix well.
• Mix Oats, whole wheat flour , Baking powder and Baking soda. Take these dried ingredients and mix well with the above mixture using your hands they will resemble like crumbs.
• Add Orange juice and zest and make it into a dough-like consistency, to this add chocolate chips and Raisins.
• The dough will be a bit sticky not to worry it will be fine. At this stage put it in a refrigerator for 1/2 to 1 hour.
• Preheat the oven to 180 degrees for 15 minutes.
• Take a cookie sheet place a parchment paper, using a scoop make round balls and flatten them a bit and place them on the sheet with a gap of 1 to 1/2''.
• Place the cookie sheet and bake for 15 minutes depending upon your oven temperature. you will notice that it is turning into golden in colour. Take it out and allow it cool, before munching.

Notes

I have baked these cookies many times in different ways. I have used just oats only without any flour and it turns out really well.
You can bake it with one large Egg if you like to use egg in your baking.
You can substitute all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat flour.
So, which Oats to use? you can use any Oats, I use porridge oats or Rolled oats, If the Oats are thick just grind it into a powder and use it as needed.

The post Orange, Oats and Raisin chocolate chip Cookies - Eggless appeared first on My Veg Fare.

My neighbour Manu Aunty back home is the most wonderful lady I have ever come across, we get acquainted when I was 15 yrs Old!  I still remember it as if it was yesterday.   Our acquaintance turned into a strong bond.  I used to go with her to all her family functions!, I became one of her family members.  It was all such fun when we were young we used to enjoy so much going around with her to all the family trips and every family functions.  She is basically a Jain and I learnt a lot of cooking from her she was born and brought up from Mysore, but her parents were north Karnataka, you could see the touch of Dharwad, Belgaum, style in her cooking.  I learnt quite a lot of dishes from her and her relatives.  Remember the Maavinhannina Seekarne (Mango Milk Shake) I have posted long back, was one such dish I saw her family serve it with obattu(poli).  She makes obattu in a different way will post her recipe someday soon.

The Best are her Avarekaalu usli in the season with rice flour flat bread is simply awesome,  It will be so tasty.  I can keep writing about her cooking the whole day.  She is such a sweet lady I have never seen her with a sad face ever, she always has this beautiful smile feels like you are home.  She never sends anybody without serving them with some of her home-made delicacies.

Last time when I visited Bangalore, I always visit her as soon as possible, as she lives next door I jump to her house from our balcony!!, that's what I always do and my mum hates it, she thinks someday I might fall from there, but it's a quick way :).  So, when I went and knocked her door, she opened the door for me and we started chatting, we went straight to the kitchen as she was making morning breakfast and this is what she was making!!, I suddenly thought I want to capture it, I told her I will be back in a minute and jumped back into my house took my camera and came running back.  I had no props or anything but enjoyed taking photos of the process of favourite Rotti.., you can see step wise photos, hope you enjoy making and devouring it.

If you are familiar with making Ubbu Rotti/ Rice flour flat bread or Jowar Rotti this is one you can make easily as it is similar to that, You don't need anything special to serve this with as it is spicy already just with yoghurt it tastes really delicious.

Kaarad Rotti (Spicy Rice Flour Flat Bread)

Recipe Author: Jayasri
Recipe Source: Manu Aunty
Recipe Type : Breakfast/Indian
Prep time : 10 minutes
Cook time : 10 minutes
Serves : 3

Ingredients:
2 Cups Rice Flour
1/3 to 1/2 Cup Fresh Coconut
1 and 1/2 to 2 tsp Chilli powder
1 tsp Salt or as required
2 to 3 tbsp Finely chopped Coriander
1 Sprig curry leaves finely chopped
3/4 to 1 Cup of very warm water

Method:
In a bowl take Rice flour and all the other Ingredients except water, mix well now start adding water little by little for making a small ball. Don't make a ball with all the flour at once, It's better to make little by little.

You need to add rice flour liberally on to the surface and keep beating it around like you do in Jolada rotti turning it around so that it doesn't stick to the surface.

If you are unable to keep making it to round as big as she has made, it takes time to practice so, you can use rolling pin and make it to a round, don't forget to add rice flour liberally on to the surface now and then otherwise it will get stuck.  I would say start with little round balls and spread it more than your palm size to start with.

She has made a perfect round as you can see. slide it on to a plate and on to the tawa.

Once you have put it on the tawa, sprinkle water on top of it, so it gets wet all round, which helps in cooking.

Keep a wet cloth and press it around lightly this helps in making the rotti  fluff a little bit.

Add some oil on both sides of the rotti, and cook well on both the sides until you see little red spots.

Once it is done serve it with yoghurt which is really perfect for the summer weather.  I enjoyed it with some pickle.  She had more chilli powder so, it was very spicy and yoghurt was a good combo.  I went home and made the same breakfast but used less chilli powder so I served it with yoghurt and chutney powder mixed in it.

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Kaarad Rotti (Spicy Rice flour Indian flat Bread) #Gluten Free #NationalVegetarianweek #Vegan

Enjoy this spicy Rice rotti, for a delicious breakfast

Course Breakfast

Cuisine Indian

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes minutes

Total Time 20 minutes minutes

Servings 3

Author Jayasri

Ingredients

• Ingredients:
• 2 Cups Rice Flour
• 1/3 to 1/2 Cup Fresh Coconut
• 1 and 1/2 to 2 tsp Chilli powder
• 1 tsp Salt or as required
• 2 to 3 tbsp Finely chopped Coriander
• 1 Sprig curry leaves finely chopped
• 3/4 to 1 Cup of very warm water

Instructions

• Method:
• In a bowl take Rice flour and all the other Ingredients except water, mix well now start adding water little by little for making a small ball. Don't make a ball with all the flour at once, It's better to make little by little.
• You need to add rice flour liberally on to the surface and keep beating it around like you do in Jolada rotti turning it around so that it doesn't stick to the surface.
• If you are unable to keep making it to round as big as she has made, it takes time to practice so, you can use rolling pin and make it to a round, don't forget to add rice flour liberally on to the surface now and then otherwise it will get stuck. I would say start with little round balls and spread it more than your palm size to start with.
• She has made a perfect round as you can see. slide it on to a plate and on to the tawa.
• Once you have put it on the tawa, sprinkle water on top of it, so it gets wet all round, which helps in cooking.
• Keep a wet cloth and press it around lightly this helps in making the rotti fluff a little bit.
• Add some oil on both sides of the rotti, and cook well on both the sides until you see little red spots.
• Once it is done serve it with yoghurt which is really perfect for the summer weather. I enjoyed it with some pickle. She had more chilli powder so, it was very spicy and yoghurt was a good combo. I went home and made the same breakfast but used less chilli powder so I served it with yoghurt and chutney powder mixed in it.

The post Kaarad Rotti (Spicy Rice flour Indian flat Bread) #Gluten Free #NationalVegetarianweek #Vegan appeared first on My Veg Fare.

- Russell Baker

When the sun hits your head, you need to quench your thirst first ? and for me, I just love drinking plain water.  But, sometimes I don't mind drinking fresh fruit juice.  When we get lots of fresh fruit in the market we can have 5 a day or 10 a day 🙂 make juice or make a salad but just enjoy it. Do you love fruits? Then you are  my  list of best friends ever.  Summer brings out some beautiful flowers, fruits,  and veggies.

Sun was in his full glory, that doesn't mean it reaches 42 - 43C as in India.  When it reaches 25-27C it's unbearable for us here, In my part of the world sun is still playing Hide and seek.  It's been pouring non-stop from past 3 days got tired of seeing rain for so long, I did so much gardening repotted my plants, added new plants, had to dig out weeds and add fresh compost as I have a very clayey soil, it's  hard work.  but love my garden when they are in full bloom.  At least for six months I can enjoy seeing them.

With all the hard work I get some perks as well! three thorns got into fingers, I just ignored the two but the third one was too stubborn, I couldn't sleep the whole night as it became blue and swollen and it was my thumb finger!  so, no gardening the next day but had to go to the  emergency unit to get rid of my splinters, the nurse was smiling and said you come every year just for this.  I had a tetanus injection because I don't know if I had one when I was a kid and my parents can't remember!  Anyways thank God! she removed it and I had trouble cooking and cleaning as it was paining severely.

Am I talking too much pouring away my stories as usual, getting back to this drink, Just before the summer starts in India we have a festival called Rama Navami, it's this time of the year which tells you the summer begins,  In India festivals always are accompanied with loads of savouries and sweets, but this festival is celebrated with just a very few interesting recipes which can be mustered up in few minutes.

Ram Navami means it's just panaka ( a delicious cooling drink) Majjige (Buttermilk /chaas) and Kosambari ( with Moong dal and cucumber).  This is served in all the temples and in homes when you visit on that day!  I could go ahead and say that our ancestors tailored the recipes accordingly to the regions and seasons in which we live in India.  They had a purpose for every recipe and the different oils used in different regions also are apt to that place and their life style.  Back to Ram Navami  as I was telling earlier as it is the time when the summer sets in we get different fruits and vegetables which need to be eaten as it is seasonal and helps you stay strong in the hot summer, you can see loads of Melons ( watermelon/ Honey dew melon/Musk Melon/ Cantaloupe) and loads of cucumber, wood apple, Mangoes and Many more.   Melons and cucumbers as you know has loads of water content in them and helps  you hydrated so, that's why in this festival they serve you with this kind of recipes.  Interesting isn't it?

Yellow Melons are called Kharbooza in Urdu. Both the melons smell gorgeous when you hold it and smell it.  The perfectly riped melons smell awesome.  They really are sweet and taste like honey.

Do you have something like this in your place, it need not have to be a festival but what you would eat most as  your Mother's and Grandmother's made for you to eat during summer time. what are those special fruits and veggies which you find during summer time,  These days you can find everything all through the year which is not what you really need right?

My Mom made these every year during summer but she used to make different types of drinks for us to enjoy the whole of summer, my Mom was a school teacher, it was fun as she used to get holidays as we got!  My Mom is a creative cook and she loved experimenting and it was fun to have her at home as she never got tired of spending more time in the kitchen even with the unbearable heat wave.  This drink brings me loads of memories.

Musk/Honey Dew Melon Drink

Recipe Author: Jayasri
Recipe Type: Juices/Drinks/Mocktails
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Serves: 4
Shelf Time: 2 days

Ingredients:
Any Melon of your choice (Musk/Honey-dew)- 1
Jaggery/Gaur - 1/2 Cup
2 to 3 - Cardamom
2 to 3 Cups - water

Method:
Wash and dry, Cut open the Melon and remove the seeds.
Using a melon baller scoop out few melon balls for garnishing when you serve.
With a spoon scoop out all the flesh and mash it well. ( My Mom used to squash it using her hand to a pulp)
In 2 to 3 cups of water or you can use more water adjust to the consistency you like!, there's not an exact measurement for this.
Dissolve the grated jaggery until it dissolves then filter it through a sieve. Usually, they have impurities, as this is a raw product.
Then mix the squash of the melon and chill it in your fridge and serve it.
Oops! Don't forget to add some crushed cardamom powder.
Enjoy!

Notes:
It shouldn't become too squashed like grinding it in a mixie. But if you preferred to do so you can do it if you don't want to use your hand!
There is no exact measurement of water, If the melons are very sweet you don't need a lot of Jaggery.
Jaggery comes in round blocks or square blocks, grate or mash them up and use them as you require depending on the sweetness of the melons. Jaggery/Gaur is a sweetener used in India, it is not a processed sugar and is the raw product of cane and is a better option than sugar.

Print

Musk / Honey Dew Melon ( Galia / Kharbooza) #Drink OR Make a #salad!

Most delicious and awesome drink, You would want it a second and third helping.

Course Juices/Drinks/Mocktails

Cuisine Indian

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes minutes

Total Time 20 minutes minutes

Servings 4

Author Jayasri

Ingredients

• Ingredients:
• Any Melon of your choice Musk/Honey-dew- 1
• Jaggery/Gaur - 1/2 Cup
• 2 to 3 - Cardamom
• 2 to 3 Cups - water

Instructions

• Method:
• Wash and dry, Cut open the Melon and remove the seeds.
• Using a melon baller scoop out few melon balls for garnishing when you serve.
• With a spoon scoop out all the flesh and mash it well. ( My Mom used to squash it using her hand to a pulp)
• In 2 to 3 cups of water or you can use more water adjust to the consistency you like!, there's not an exact measurement for this.
• Dissolve the grated jaggery until it dissolves then filter it through a sieve. Usually, they have impurities, as this is a raw product.
• Then mix the squash of the melon and chill it in your fridge and serve it.
• Oops! Don't forget to add some crushed cardamom powder.
• Enjoy!

Notes

Notes:
It shouldn't become too squashed like grinding it in a mixie. But if you preferred to do so you can do it if you don't want to use your hand!
There is no exact measurement of water, If the melons are very sweet you don't need a lot of Jaggery.
Jaggery comes in round blocks or square blocks, grate or mash them up and use them as you require depending on the sweetness of the melons. Jaggery/Gaur is a sweetener used in India, it is not a processed sugar and is the raw product of cane and is a better option than sugar.

The post Musk / Honey Dew Melon ( Galia / Kharbooza / Canteloupe ) #Drink OR Make a #salad! appeared first on My Veg Fare.