Category: General

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Kara Chutney- South Indian Chutney- Idlis | Dosa

Chutneys are special when it comes to Indian cuisine. India is the origin of different varieties of regional chutneys. They are super versatile. You can relish it as a condiment, use it as an ingredient, and even as a spread. Not just that, chutneys enhance flavor, provide texture contrast, preserve ingredients and hold cultural significance.

South Indian cuisine is not just about coconut chutney. There is so much variety and one such variety is Kara Chutney which originated in Tamil Nadu where kara means spicy. This chutney is typically made with onion, garlic, tomatoes and red chilies. This chutney because of its spiciness and lot of other flavours pairs perfectly well with foods that do not have lot of complicated flavour combinations like idli, dosa, appams. 

I am a hardcore chutney fan. I need variation when it comes to having chutneys with idli or dosa, even if it is a slight one. And this kara chutney is like an explosion of flavour in your mouth. It is delicious to the core. In fact it is my favourite chutney from South Indian cuisine. You can obviously make it less spicy by adding lesser dried chilies. I also like this Spicy Tangy Peanut Chutney which also pairs great with dosas and idlis. It is made with no onion or garlic. You can give this a try too. 

Originally kara chutney does not contain any coconut but I like to add a little bit to cut down on spice and also I feel coconut kind of balances all the other overpowering flavours of garlic, onion, lentils and tomatoes.

Let’s see how to make Kara Chutney my style with step by step recipe. 

Recipe: serves 4

Ingredients 

  • Onion: 1/2 cup
  • Channa Dal/Bengal gram: 1 tbsp
  • White Split Urad Dal: 1 tbsp
  • Arhar Dal: 1 tbsp
  • Tomatoes: 1 cup
  • Garlic: 2 cloves
  • Dried Red Chillies: 2 (you can increase or reduce as per your liking)
  • Coconut: 2 tbsps
  • Tamarind: 1/2 tsp
  • Water: 1/2 cup
  • Salt to taste
  • Oil: 2 tbsp (I used groundnut oil)

For Tempering

  • Mustard seeds: 1 tsp
  • Curry Leaves: 1 sprig
  • Asafoetida/Hing: a pinch
  • Oil: 1 tsp

Instructions 

  • In a pan, heat 1 tbsp oil. Now add all the lentils. Roast till fragrant and lightlish brown in colour. Take it out and set aside.
  • Now add a tbsp of oil and add roughly chopped garlic. Sauté till rawness goes.
  • Then add onion and dry red chilies. Cook onions till they become translucent. 
  • Now add roughly chopped tomatoes, salt and the fried lentils. Cook everything till tomatoes get mushy and soft. 
  • Switch off the flame and allow to cool. Then in a blender, add tamarind, coconut and 1/4th cup of water and give a blitz. 
  • Remove the lid, scrape the sides and then add remaining water. Blend again till it becomes a smooth paste. You can add little more water if required.
  • For tempering: Heat a tsp of oil. Add mustard seeds and a pinch of hing. Allow it to splutter. Switch off the flame and then add curry leaves. Let the leaves rest in the oil for a few seconds and then pour it over the chutney and mix well.
  • Check for saltiness and tanginess. If you want it more tangy, at this stage you can add little bit of lemon juice. 
  • Serve kara chutney with idli, dosa or uttapam. This spicy chutney also goes well with paniyarams.

Note: Store the leftover chutney is refrigerator and consume within a week.

You should definitely try this chutney if you are a fan of South Indian cuisine. Do let me know in the comments if you do. Would love to hear from you.

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Chia Seed Mango Pudding- Guilt Free Dessert

With this unbearable heat your appetite too goes for a toss. This chia seed pudding recipe has become my go-to breakfast/afternoon snack. It’s cool, creamy, and lightly sweet. Even my 10 year old keeps demanding it from time to time as an evening snack. Topped with fresh fruits with a drizzle of maple syrup and vanilla, this tastes like a dessert but with goodness of fibre, protein, healthy fats, vitamins and minerals. 

Chia Pudding Recipe Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this chia pudding recipe:

  • Chia seeds, of course! I have used black chia seeds but you can use white chia seeds as well.
  • Coconut milk or almond milk – I like to use this light homemade coconut milk in this recipe because it makes the pudding extra-rich and creamy, but if you don’t have any on hand, don’t worry! Almond milk is also a great choice.
  • Maple syrup – I mix some into the chia seed pudding to sweeten it naturally. 
  • Vanilla – To add more flavour. You can choose to add cinnamon too.
  • Mango: It’s summer- The Mango Season! You can take any seasonal fruit of your choice. Either purée it or finely chop it. Totally upto you.

Find the complete recipe with measurements below.

Chia seeds are great addition to your and your child’s diet. 

  • It’s loaded with antioxidants.
  • Protein in Chia seeds is high quality protein since they have a good balance of amino acids. 
  • Chia seeds are high in several nutrients like calcium, phosphorus, magnesium that are important for bone health.
  • It also helps in reducing inflammation 
  • Great source of Omega 3 fatty acids

There’s no better way of introducing these super healthy seeds in your child’s diet than this guilt free, sugar free dessert. Trust me you and your child will love it. 

Recipe

Ingredients: serves 2 

  • 250 ml Coconut milk or any other milk of your choice. 
  • 1/2 cup Mango puree (you can add more too)
  • 1/4th cup Chia seeds
  • 1/2 tsp Vanilla extract 
  • 2 tbsps Pure Maple syrup or Raw Honey

Method: 

  • In coconut milk or any other milk of your choice, add chia seeds, vanilla extract & maple syrup/honey. Mix well and refrigerate for atleast 1 hour or maximum 12 hours. It should have thick pouring consistency. 
  • Puree mango in a blender.
  • Now take a bowl or a jar, add a layer of soaked chia seed first. Too it with mango puree then soaked chia seeds and finish it with mango puree. 
  • Garnish it the way you like. 
  • I added mint leaves which my son conveniently chucked, some cherries and desiccated coconut.

Notes: 

  1. You can use fruits of your choice. 
  2. You can also add granola to it. 
  3. This can be made ahead and refrigerated overnight so you have a quick breakfast ready.
  4. Store any leftovers in the covered jar or an airtight container for up to 3 days
  5. If the pudding becomes thick, loosen it up by adding more milk. 

Enjoy this super healthy guilt free no sugar dessert. 🙂 For recipes with mangoes try this delicious summer lunch recipe that goes great with a bowl of rice Fajeto – A Gujarati Mango Kadhi or this Quick and Easy Mango Pudding that will take you 10 minutes to whip up.

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Jal Jeera aka The Indian Lemonade- Powerful Digestive Drink

Jal jeera is an Indian beverage in which Jal means water and Jeera means cumin. It is an interesting refreshing drink from North India. Summers can be cruel in North India. The temperature can rise upto 42 ºC. This Indian Lemonade is not just a summer coolant that can lower your body temperature in the heat but also a digestive drink.

Jal Jeera has a long history. It originated at the banks of river Ganges. The jal jeera powder was ground on stone slabs. It was a popular drink which was freshly prepared and stored in clay pots to make it more alkaline. It was typically served as a welcome drink or was consumed before meals. It activates your tastes buds and appetite. Know all the benefits of clay pot and how should you use it here- Everything you need to know about Earthen Pots

In our fast paced complicated lives we have forgotten the beauty of simplicity. But this beauty of jal jeera cannot be attained from jal jeera that comes in a bottle which you conveniently pick up from a super market. Jal jeera that comes in a bottle or in a powdered form can be prepared with tons of preservatives, sugar, synthetic citric acid and artificial flavouring. Simple lifestyle habits like making your own fresh jal jeera at home can make a huge difference. 

Jal jeera essentially includes water and cumin but it is so much more than that. Let’s see the ingredient list and their benefits 

  • Cumin (jeera) is one of the most gut-friendly spice, and promotes pancreatic enzymes, assisting in the digestion process.
  • Black salt cures acidity, acts as a laxative, promotes hair growth, and has antioxidant effects. It also has a low salt content, minerals like iron, calcium, and magnesium that are necessary for good health.
  • Asafoetida (hing) act as a good digestive.
  • Fresh mint leaves help regulate your body temperature, aids metabolism and improves respiratory functions.
  • Grated ginger or ginger powder helps in treating nausea. It also helps in digestion and constipation. If you experience heart burn, ginger can be your best friend.
  • Lemon juice: Great source of Vitamin C. Citric acid naturally present in lemon will help in making your body alkaline
  • Black Pepper is great bloating, skin issues, aids digestion and helps to boost immunity.

Recipe: for 2 glasses

Ingredients 

  • Black Salt or Rock Salt to taste
  • Bhuna jeera/Roasted Cumin Powder: 1 1/2 tsp
  • Kali mirch/Black Pepper: 1/4th tsp
  • Ginger juice: 1 tsp (or use dry ginger powder)
  • Lemon juice from 2 lemons
  • Mint leaves: handful
  • Hing: a pinch 
  • Water : 2 glasses
  • Ice as required 

Method

  1. In a blender, add all the ingredients mentioned above and blend it well. 
  2. Sieve if you like. Check for saltiness or tanginess as per your liking. Garnish with some mint leaves, lemon wedges and boondi if you prefer.
  3. Note: If you like your jal jeera sweet, add jaggery powder or raw honey to sweeten it. Do not add white refined sugar.

I hope you make this drink at home to beat the summer heat. If you want to try or know more about such traditional healthy summer drinks you can check out these recipe links below:

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Raising Independent Kids: The Power of Letting Them Do Things Themselves

As parents, we often want to protect and assist our children in every way possible. However, doing everything for them can hinder their growth and independence. To raise confident, capable, and independent children, it’s essential to allow them to do things for themselves within a safe environment. Giving them age-appropriate responsibilities helps them develop essential life skills and a sense of accomplishment.

The Importance of Independence

Encouraging independence in young children lays the foundation for self-reliance and problem-solving abilities. It helps them build confidence, resilience, and a sense of responsibility. When children learn to complete tasks on their own, they feel empowered and capable, which boosts their self-esteem and prepares them for future challenges.

Creating a Safe Environment

Safety is a top priority when fostering independence in children. Here are some tips to create a safe environment for your little ones:

  1. Childproof Your Home: Ensure your home is safe by securing sharp objects, covering electrical outlets, and removing hazardous materials. Install safety gates and locks where necessary.
  2. Set Clear Boundaries: Establish clear rules and boundaries to help your child understand what is safe and acceptable. Consistent guidance helps them learn self-discipline.
  3. Supervise Appropriately: While giving your child space to explore and complete tasks, always supervise them closely to ensure their safety. Gradually reduce supervision as they become more skilled and confident.

Age-Appropriate Tasks for 1-5 Year Olds

Here are some age-appropriate responsibilities for young children that promote independence:

1-2 Years:

  • Picking Up Toys: Encourage your child to put their toys back in a designated bin after playtime. Make it a fun activity by singing a clean-up song together.
  • Feeding Themselves: Allow your child to use a spoon or their hands to eat finger foods. Provide a bib and a spill-proof mat to minimize messes.
  • Helping with Dressing: Let your child try to put on simple clothing items like socks, shoes, or a hat. Offer guidance and praise their efforts.

2-3 Years:

  • Washing Hands: Teach your child to wash their hands with soap and water before meals and after using the bathroom. Use a step stool to help them reach the sink.
  • Putting Away Groceries: Involve your child in unpacking groceries by assigning them light and safe items to put away, like cereal boxes or canned goods.
  • Watering Plants: Give your child a small watering can and let them water indoor or outdoor plants. This task teaches them to care for living things.

3-4 Years:

  • Setting the Table: Show your child how to set the table by placing napkins, utensils, and cups. Start with a simple setup and gradually add more items as they become proficient.
  • Brushing Teeth: Encourage your child to brush their teeth with supervision. Use a timer or a fun song to ensure they brush for the recommended two minutes.
  • Sorting Laundry: Let your child help sort laundry by colors or types of clothing. This activity teaches them about organization and categorization.

4-5 Years:

  • Making the Bed: Guide your child in making their bed each morning. Start with simple tasks like straightening the pillow and pulling up the blanket.
  • Preparing Simple Snacks: Involve your child in preparing easy snacks like spreading peanut butter on bread or assembling fruit bowl. Supervise closely and teach kitchen safety.
  • Cleaning Up Spills: Show your child how to clean up small spills with a cloth or paper towel. This task teaches responsibility and helps them develop problem-solving skills.

Encouraging Independence

Encouraging independence in young children requires patience and consistency. Celebrate their achievements, no matter how small, and offer gentle guidance when needed. Remember, the goal is not perfection but progress. By allowing your child to take on age-appropriate responsibilities, you’re helping them develop essential life skills that will serve them well throughout their lives.

Raising independent children starts with giving them the freedom to do things for themselves. By creating a safe environment and providing age-appropriate tasks, you can help your child build confidence, responsibility, and resilience. Remember, the journey to independence is a gradual process, and every small step counts. Encourage your child, celebrate their successes, and watch them thrive.

If you have any tips or experiences on raising independent children, feel free to share them in the comments below. Let’s support each other in this rewarding journey of parenthood!

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Choosing the Right School for Your Child: A Key Decision for Indian Parents

Choosing the right school is like gifting your child the best future. Selecting the right school for your child is one of the most crucial decisions you will make as a parent. In India, where education is highly valued, ensuring that your child receives a well-rounded education that is both holistic and academic is essential. The right school can lay a strong foundation for your child’s future, shaping their intellectual, emotional, and social development.

Holistic Education: Nurturing the Whole Child

A school that offers a holistic education focuses on the overall development of a child. This approach goes beyond traditional academics to include:

  1. Emotional Well-Being: Programs that support mental health and emotional intelligence.
  2. Physical Health: Emphasis on sports and physical activities.
  3. Creative Expression: Opportunities in art, music, and drama.
  4. Social Skills: Activities that promote teamwork, leadership, and communication.
    A holistic education ensures that children grow up to be well-rounded individuals who can navigate life’s challenges with resilience and confidence.

Academic Excellence: Building Strong Foundations

While holistic development is important, academic excellence remains a cornerstone of a good education. The right school should:

  1. Provide Quality Education: Offer a robust curriculum that is challenging and engaging.
  2. Foster Critical Thinking: Encourage students to think critically and solve problems creatively.
  3. Embrace Technology: Integrate modern teaching tools and technology into the learning process.
  4. Offer Extracurricular Activities: Provide a variety of activities that enhance academic learning.

Key Factors to Consider

When choosing a school, Indian parents should consider several factors to ensure that the institution aligns with their values and their child’s needs:

  1. School Reputation: Research the school’s reputation and track record in both academics and extracurricular activities.
  2. Faculty Quality: Ensure that the teachers are qualified, experienced, and passionate about teaching.
  3. Infrastructure: Look for schools with good facilities, including libraries, laboratories, sports grounds, and art studios.
  4. Values and Culture: Choose a school that aligns with your family’s values and promotes a positive culture.
  5. Location and Commute: Consider the school’s proximity to your home to ensure a manageable commute for your child.
  6. Parental Involvement: Opt for schools that encourage parental participation and maintain open communication channels.

Making the Right Choice

Choosing the right school is a decision that requires careful thought and consideration. Visit potential schools, talk to teachers and administrators, and involve your child in the decision-making process. A school that prioritizes both holistic and academic education will not only help your child excel in their studies but also support their overall growth and development.

In India, where education plays a pivotal role in shaping the future, selecting the right school for your child is paramount. By choosing a school that balances holistic and academic education, you are investing in your child’s well-being and success. Take the time to research, visit schools, and make an informed decision that will benefit your child for years to come.

If you’d like to see a list of schools from metro cities in India that focus on both holistic and academic education, please write in the comments below. We would love to share more information to help you make the best choice for your child’s future.