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Mango Shrikhand: A Step-by-Step Recipe

Hello, food enthusiasts! 🍽️💕 Today, we’re going to explore a delightful Indian dessert that’s perfect for the summer season – Mango Shrikhand. And who better to guide us through this journey than the queen of Indian vegetarian recipes, Nisha Madhulika. With her easy-to-follow recipe videos and engaging content, Nisha Madhulika has become a household name in India and beyond. Today, we’re diving into one of her popular videos titled “Mango Shrikhand Recipe – How To Make Mango Shri Khand”.

Mango Shrikhand: A Summer Delight 🌞

Before we delve into the recipe, let’s talk about Mango Shrikhand. This dessert, made from fresh curd and mango pulp, is a staple in many Indian households during the summer. It’s known for its creamy texture and refreshing mango flavor, making it a perfect dessert to beat the summer heat. Moreover, it’s incredibly easy to prepare and can be a great way to enjoy the king of fruits – Mango!

The Health Benefits of Mango Shrikhand 🍏

Mango Shrikhand is not just a tasty dessert; it’s also packed with numerous health benefits. The fresh curd used in the recipe is a good source of protein and calcium, which are essential for bone health. The mango pulp is rich in vitamin C, which boosts immunity and keeps your skin healthy. Moreover, mangoes are also high in fiber, which aids digestion. So, while you’re enjoying this delicious dessert, you’re also nourishing your body!

Preparing Mango Shrikhand: Step-by-Step Guide 🍨

Now, let’s dive into the recipe as shared by Nisha Madhulika:

  1. Preparation: Start by preparing the curd. Tie the curd in a cloth and let all the water drain out. This will leave you with the thick part of the curd, which is used to prepare the Shrikhand.
  2. Grinding: Once the curd is ready, add it to a mixer jar along with mango pulp and powdered sugar. Grind everything finely and strain the mixture through a sieve. This will give you a smooth and creamy base for your Shrikhand.
  3. Mixing: Add the prepared mixture to a bowl. Add in some powdered cardamom, almonds, and pistachios. Mix everything well to combine.
  4. Serving: To serve the Mango Shrikhand, pour it into small bowls. Garnish with some more almonds and pistachios. Enjoy this refreshing dessert chilled!

This recipe is not just about making a dessert; it’s about enjoying the process and treating yourself to a homemade, refreshing, and healthy summer treat. So, why not give it a try?

If you enjoyed this recipe and want to explore more, do check out Nisha Madhulika’s YouTube channel for more culinary inspiration. And don’t forget to join our Facebook group of Vibrant and Engaging Food Lovers, where you can share your cooking experiments and results with a community of food enthusiasts.

Stay cool and refreshed this summer with Mango Shrikhand! 🥭🍨💕

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5 Cold Coffee Ideas with Chef Ranveer Brar

crop faceless woman raising glass of iced coffee latte

Hello, coffee lovers! ☕️💕 Today, we’re going to embark on a delightful journey into the world of coffee with none other than the renowned Indian celebrity chef, Ranveer Brar. Known for his culinary talents and captivating charm, Chef Ranveer has left an indelible impression on the culinary world with his recipe videos, television shows, and his esteemed presence as a judge on MasterChef India. Today, we’re diving into one of his exciting videos titled “5 Types of Coffee | घर पे बनाये 5 तरह की कॉफ़ी | Chef Ranveer Brar”.

In this video, Chef Ranveer introduces us to the art of making five different types of coffee at home. But before we get into the details, let’s talk about the importance of coffee. Coffee is not just a beverage; it’s a global culture. It’s a ritual, a small treat to yourself, or a break from a hectic day. A good cup of coffee can evoke a range of emotions and memories, and making coffee at home can be an incredibly satisfying experience.

Now, let’s dive into the world of coffee with Chef Ranveer Brar:

  1. Iced Coffee: This is the simplest of all. All you need is some coffee liquor (a mixture of coffee and sugar syrup), ice cubes, and milk. The trick here is to add the coffee liquor to the ice first, followed by a bit of fresh cream (optional), and then the milk. Stir it, and your perfect Iced Coffee is ready to be savored!
  2. Frappuccino: This is technically called ice-blended coffee. The secret ingredient here is condensed milk, which balances the sweetness and prevents the ice from making the coffee watery. The result is a slushy, delicious Frappuccino.
  3. Homestyle Cold Coffee: This is a nostalgic recipe for many. It involves a simple container (or a shaker if you have one), coffee liquor, a bit of coffee powder, ice cubes, a pinch of salt, some cream (optional), and milk. The result is a frothy, delicious cold coffee that reminds you of home.
  4. Iced Mocha: A delightful concoction of coffee and chocolate, Iced Mocha is a treat for the taste buds. The process involves adding chocolate syrup to a glass, followed by coffee liquor, and then milk. The result is a beautifully layered coffee that tastes as good as it looks.
  5. Coffee Freakshake: This is a meal in itself. It’s a crazy mix of everything you can find – biscuits, coffee syrup, chocolate syrup, milk, and lots of ice cream. The result is a gigantic, overflowing glass of pure indulgence.

These recipes are not just about making coffee; they’re about enjoying the process and treating yourself to a homemade cup of joy. So, why not give it a try?

If you enjoyed these recipes and want to explore more, do check out Chef Ranveer Brar’s YouTube channel for more culinary inspiration. And don’t forget to join our Facebook group of Vibrant & Engaging Food Lovers, where you can share your coffee experiments and results with a community of food enthusiasts.

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Secret Tips for Aamras, Aamrakhand, and Pooris with Chef Ranveer Brar

Mango, the king of fruits, is not just a fruit in India, it’s a cultural phenomenon. Celebrated across the country in numerous delightful dishes, mangoes add a unique flavor and richness that is unmatched. Today, we’re going to explore three such dishes – Aamras, Aamrakhand, and Pooris, based on the engaging video by Chef Ranveer Brar on his YouTube channel.

Aamras: The Sweet Mango Pulp 🥭

Aamras is a popular Indian dessert made from the pulp of ripe mangoes. The name ‘Aamras’ literally translates to ‘mango juice’. It is a simple yet delicious dish that is loved by people of all ages. Here’s how you can prepare it:

  1. Select Your Mangoes: The first step is to choose the right mangoes. Chef Ranveer suggests using a mix of mango varieties for a balanced flavor. Pro Tip: if you’re using 6 Kesar or Chaunsa mangoes, add 2 Alphonso mangoes to it. The sweetness and aroma of Alphonso mangoes complement the taste of other varieties.
  2. Prepare the Pulp: Peel the mangoes and dice them into small cubes. Blend the mango cubes with some sugar to make a smooth pulp. The pulp should be thick and creamy.
  3. Preserve the Aamras: Another Pro Tip, inspired by Gujarati’s trick to preserve Aamras for a long time is to submerge the mango seeds into the Aamras. This way, you can freeze it and enjoy it even after a year!

Aamrakhand: The Mango-infused Shrikhand 🍨

Shrikhand is a traditional Indian sweet dish made from strained yogurt. Aamrakhand is a variant of Shrikhand, where mango pulp is added to the yogurt. It’s a perfect summer dessert that combines the creaminess of yogurt with the sweetness of mangoes. Here’s how you can prepare it:

  1. Prepare the Hung Curd: Hang the curd in a muslin cloth overnight to drain all the liquid. The resulting product should be similar to cottage cheese.
  2. Mix the Ingredients: Add some sugar and prepared Aamras to the hung curd. Mix it thoroughly with your hand until it becomes fluffy. The key is to mix it well so that the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture becomes light and airy.
  3. Add Saffron: Add some saffron strands for an enhanced flavor. However, avoid adding cardamom powder or nutmeg powder as they can overpower the delicate flavor of mango.

Pooris: The Perfect Accompaniment 🍽️

Pooris are deep-fried bread made from unleavened wheat flour. They are the perfect accompaniment to Aamras and Aamrakhand. Here’s how you can prepare them:

  1. Prepare the Dough: Make a soft dough from wheat flour. The dough should be kneaded well so that the pooris puff up nicely when fried.
  2. Roll and Fry: Roll out small, round pooris from the dough. Deep fry the pooris in hot oil until they puff up and turn golden brown. The oil should be hot enough so that the pooris puff up immediately as they are dropped in the oil.

Remember, if you don’t prefer deep-fried food, you can pair Aamras and Aamrakhand with chapatis as well!

Embrace the Diversity of Mangoes 🌍

India is a land of diverse mango varieties. Each state has its own favorite variety – Dasheri in Lucknow, Alphonso in Mumbai, Kesar in Surat, and Langra in Moradabad. Embrace this diversity and try out different types of mangoes this season!

And remember, as Chef Ranveer Brar says, “Every time is mango time!” So, go ahead and enjoy the delight of the mango season to its fullest!

Join the Community 🤝

For more mango recipes like mango phirni and various other mango dishes, check out Chef Ranveer Brar’s YouTube channel. Also, join our secret group on Facebook, Eatlo to share your own recipes, experiences, and love for mangoes!

Remember, the joy of cooking is in the process, not just the end result. So, have fun experimenting with these recipes and enjoy the delicious outcomes!

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Best Mangoes for Indian Mango Pickle or Aam Ka Achar

Dry mango pickle made of original Ramkela mangoes.

India, a country renowned for its rich cultural and gastronomic diversity, is the undisputed king of mangoes, boasting a treasure trove of over a thousand varieties. The love affair between India and mangoes transcends all forms of this delicious fruit’s consumption, with one standout delicacy being the Indian Mango Pickle or Aam Ka Achar.

But, with so many mango types to choose from, how does one select the best for their Aam Ka Achar? Fear not, for this blog post will guide you through the prime mango varieties to ensure your pickle is packed with an authentic burst of flavors.

  1. Rajapuri Mangoes:

Hailing from the heartland of Gujarat, the Rajapuri mango is a pickle maker’s delight. Its sizeable proportions, minimal fiber content, and intrinsic tartness make it a popular choice for pickle-making. Rajapuri’s distinctive tang enhances the sharp, spicy flavors of traditional Indian pickle spices like mustard, fenugreek, and asafoetida (hing).

  1. Ramkela Mangoes:

This variety, mainly found in the Northern parts of India, is another favorite for Aam Ka Achar. Ramkela mangoes are small in size with a distinctive aroma and have a high pulp to seed ratio, making them an ideal candidate for pickles. These mangoes also have a longer shelf life, contributing to the longevity of your pickle.

  1. Totapuri Mangoes:

The Totapuri, also known as Ginimoothi or Kili Mooku in the South of India, is renowned for its unique beak-like shape. Its raw form is tangy and crunchy, which lends a wonderful texture and flavor to the pickle. Notably, its firm flesh ensures it can withstand long durations of pickling without losing its structure.

  1. Kesar Mangoes:

Originating from the lush lands of Gujarat, Kesar mangoes have a distinctive saffron hue when ripe. However, for pickling purposes, the unripe, green Kesar mangoes are chosen. They have a delicate sweetness beneath their tart exterior, adding a complex flavor profile to your Aam Ka Achar.

Now, let’s talk about different types of Aam Ka Achar and how each mango variety contributes to their unique characteristics.

  • Avakaya Pachadi: A fiery Andhra-style mango pickle that uses robust red chili powder and mustard seeds, Avakaya Pachadi is typically made with Totapuri mangoes. Their crunchy texture perfectly balances the explosive spices used.
  • Punjabi Aam Ka Achar: Known for its liberal use of fennel seeds (saunf) and nigella seeds (kalonji), this version relies on the tangy Ramkela mangoes, which complement the earthy spices beautifully.
  • Gujarati Methia Keri: This pickle is flavored primarily with fenugreek seeds and chili powder, and Rajapuri mangoes are the preferred choice. Their natural tartness elevates the bitterness of the fenugreek seeds to a pleasant warmth.
  • Bengali Aamer Achar: This variant is a sweet-sour delight and often uses Kesar mangoes for that hint of sweetness that beautifully balances the pungency of the mustard oil and seeds.

    Whatever version you try, or if you are looking for recipes and ideas, do join a vibrant community of food lovers to help you out, eatlo.

So, next time you’re gearing up to make some delicious Aam Ka Achar, remember to choose your mangoes wisely. The right variety can elevate your pickle from good to extraordinary, taking you on an exciting culinary journey through the flavors of India. Happy Pickling!

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Top Kitchen Design Trends for 2023: Guide to a Stylish and Functional Kitchen

kitchen room with white wall

Hello, dear readers! 🙋‍♀️

As we navigate through the year 2023, we find ourselves in the midst of an exciting era of innovation and creativity in the realm of kitchen design. The kitchen, often referred to as the heart of the home, has evolved from a purely functional space to a central hub of family life, entertainment, and artistic expression. 🏡🍽️

Today, we’re going to delve into the world of kitchen design trends for 2023, inspired by the insightful review by Vivien from Posh Pennies on her YouTube channel. We’ll explore the latest trends, the must-haves, and the game-changers that will transform your kitchen into a modern, functional, and stylish space. So, buckle up and let’s embark on this design journey! 🚀

The Evolution of the Kitchen 🍲

The kitchen has undergone a significant transformation over the years. It’s no longer just a place where meals are prepared; it’s a space where families gather, celebrations are held, and memories are created. It’s a place that reflects your lifestyle, your tastes, and your personality.

In recent years, we’ve seen a shift in kitchen design trends. The focus is now on creating a space that is not just functional, but also aesthetically pleasing and reflective of the homeowner’s personal style.

The Ideal Time to Revamp Your Kitchen 📅

The decision to revamp your kitchen can be triggered by various factors – a festive season, a special occasion, or simply the desire for a change. Many retailers offer discounts and special offers during festive seasons, making it a great opportunity to get a good deal. Plus, having a new kitchen in time for the festive season can make cooking and entertaining even more enjoyable.

Tips for Buying a New Kitchen 🛍️

When it comes to buying a new kitchen, it’s important to consider your needs, budget, and the available space. Here are some tips to help you make the right choice:

  1. Plan Your Layout: The layout of your kitchen should be functional and efficient. Consider the ‘work triangle’ – the distance between your stove, sink, and refrigerator. These should be placed in a way that makes cooking easy and efficient.
  2. Choose the Right Appliances: Integrated appliances are a big trend in 2023. They blend into the cabinetry, giving your kitchen a sleek and modern look. Also, consider investing in energy-efficient appliances to save on electricity bills.
  3. Select the Right Materials: Wood cabinets are making a comeback in 2023. The trend is towards medium wood tones like walnut and chestnut. These add warmth and richness to your kitchen.
  4. Don’t Forget the Details: Details like a decorative toe kick can add a unique touch to your kitchen. Also, consider adding a statement wine display or a luxury storage solution for a custom feel.

The Top Kitchen Design Trends for 2023 🌟

Now, let’s dive into the top kitchen design trends for 2023, as shared by the fabulous Vivien from Posh Pennies:

  1. Integrated Appliances: Appliances that blend into the cabinetry are a big trend. They give the kitchen a sleek, modern look and reduce visual clutter.
  2. Wood Cabinetry: Medium wood tones like walnut and chestnut are in vogue. They add warmth and richness to the kitchen, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
  3. Statement Wine Displays: For wine connoisseurs, a statementwine display can be a great addition to the kitchen. It’s not just about storage; it’s about showcasing your collection in a stylish and sophisticated way.
  4. Expressive Marbles: Bold, heavily veined marbles are synonymous with luxury. They are being used for countertops and backsplashes, adding a touch of elegance and grandeur to the kitchen.
  5. Cabinet Door Profiles: Shaker-style cabinets are being replaced by in-shaker style cabinets with thinner rails and styles. This subtle change can give your kitchen a more contemporary and streamlined look.
  6. Decorative Toe Kicks: These add a unique touch to your kitchen and make your cabinetry feel more like furniture. It’s all about the details, and a decorative toe kick can make a big difference.
  7. Luxury Storage: Personalized kitchen storage solutions are all the rage. Think pull-out spice racks, built-in cutlery trays, and custom pantry organizers. These features can make your kitchen feel very custom and special.
  8. Statement Islands: Big, bold islands, even double islands, are a trend for those with the space and budget. They often feature beautiful stone slabs and interesting textures, becoming the focal point of the kitchen.
  9. Induction Ranges: Induction ranges are gaining traction in North America. They heat the pan through magnetic conductivity, making them safer and more efficient than traditional ranges.
  10. Lux Hardware: Gleaming, luxurious-looking faucets and cabinet hardware are in vogue. Brass hardware is particularly popular in American kitchen design.
  11. Other Trends: Other notable trends include plaster range hoods, kitchens without upper cabinets, pull-out refrigerator drawers, and two-tone cabinets.

Conclusion 🎉

Designing a kitchen is a big project, but with the right planning and the right trends in mind, you can create a space that is functional, beautiful, and uniquely yours. Remember, the best kitchen design is the one that works for you and your family. So, don’t be afraid to mix and match trends to create a kitchen that you love.

A big thank you to Vivien from Posh Pennies for her insightful video on 2023 kitchen design trends. Do check out her YouTube channel for more such helpful content.

Stay inspired, stay creative, and happy designing! 🏡💖