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A Taste of Nostalgia: Recipe to Make Khatta Meetha aur Imly Aam Papad

From my childhood and even now, I have always loved to eat this tasty, delicious, and mouth-watering aam papad in different flavors. Whether it’s meetha (sweet), khatta (sour), or the spicy tangy imly aam papad, each bite takes me back to childhood days. I craved for this aam papad way too much during my pregnancy days, and I am sure many of you must have gone through the same. You can read more about Aam Papad during Pregnancy : Cravings, Nutrition & Side Affects.

During such precious times, it’s crucial to ensure the food we consume is hygienic and made with care. That’s why I encourage all expecting mothers to try this aam papad recipe at home. If you don’t want to get into the hustle, you can buy this delicious treat from our website, knowing it’s made with the highest standards of hygiene and love. Enjoy the taste of nostalgia and take care of your health and your little one’s!

I am excited to share with you an easy recipe to make aam papad at home, covering all three variants. So let’s get started.

Ingredients:

  • 6-8 ripe mangoes (preferably Alphonso or Safeda)
  • 1 cup sugar (adjust according to the sweetness of the mangoes)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For Khatta Aam Papad:

  • 1 tablespoon tamarind pulp

For Spicy Tangy Imly Aam Papad:

  • 1 tablespoon tamarind pulp
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black salt

Method:

Prepare the Mango Puree:

Peel and chop the ripe mangoes. Blend them into a smooth puree. Pass the puree through a sieve to remove any fibrous parts, ensuring a smooth texture.

In a heavy-bottomed pan, add the mango puree and sugar. Cook on low heat, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens and reduces to a jam-like consistency. This can take around 30-40 minutes. Add lemon juice and mix well.

Prepare for Different Flavors:

For Meetha Aam Papad: Spread a portion of the cooked mango mixture evenly on a greased tray or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

For Khatta Aam Papad: Add tamarind pulp to a portion of the cooked mango mixture, mix well, and spread it on another tray.

For Spicy Tangy Imly Aam Papad: Add tamarind pulp, red chili powder, and black salt to the remaining mango mixture. Mix well and spread it on a separate tray.

tangi imli aam papad masala monk

Allow the spread mixtures to cool completely. Once cooled, place the trays in a warm, dry place or under the sun to dry. This can take 2-3 days, depending on the weather. The aam papad is ready when it is firm and no longer sticky to the touch. Once dried, cut the aam papad into desired shapes using a knife or pizza cutter. Roll them up or store them flat in an airtight container.

Making aam papad at home is not only a fun but also a way to recreate those cherished childhood memories. You can make your own aam papad or if you are looking for a homemade, preservative free and authentic experience, without getting into hassle of making your own, you can always explore Masala Monk’s Meetha Aam Papad , Khatta Aam Papad and Spicy and Tangy Imli Aam Papad which ships all over India.

Enjoy the meetha, khatta, and spicy tangy imly aam papad with your loved ones. Do try this recipe and share your feedback in the comments below!

Happy snacking!

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Advice to Senior Citizens – By Khushwant Singh

In this heartfelt reflection, Khushwant Singh, a renowned Indian author, shares his insights on longevity and coping with old age. At 98 years old, he offers practical advice based on his personal experiences and observations. His wisdom is not just about living longer, but living well and finding peace and satisfaction in the later years of life.

Khushwant Singh’s Reflections on Longevity and Coping with Old Age

By Khushwant Singh @ age 98

Coming on to 98 and still earning more than I did in my younger days, people ask me how I manage to do it. They regard me as an expert on longevity.

Also Read: 30-Minute Chair Yoga for Seniors and Elderly

Earlier I had written that longevity is in one’s genes. This did not happen in my own family. My parents, who died at 90 and 94, had five children. The first to go was the youngest of the siblings. Next went my sister who was the fourth. My elder brother, who was three years older than me, went a couple of years ago. Two of us remain: I, who will soon be 98, and my younger brother, a retired Brigadier three years younger than me and in much better health.

More important than analyzing longevity is to cope with old age and make terms with it. As we grow older, we are less able to exercise our limbs. Right into my mid-eighties, I played tennis every morning, did rounds of Lodhi gardens in winter, and swam for an hour in summer. I am unable to do this anymore. Now I take a good massage by powerful hands going all over my body from the skull to the toes. I have this done at least once a day or at times twice a day. I am convinced that this has kept me going for so long.

Equally important is the need to cut down drastically one’s intake of food and drink. I start my mornings with guava juice. My breakfast is one scrambled egg on toast. My lunch is usually patli kichri with dahi or a vegetable. I skip afternoon tea. In the evening, I take a peg of single malt whisky. Before I eat supper, I say to myself, “Do not eat too much.” I also believe that a meal should have just one kind of vegetable or meat followed by a pinch of chooran. It is best to eat alone and in silence. Talking while eating does not do justice to the food and you swallow a lot of it. For me, no more Punjabi or Mughlai food. I find South Indian idli, sambhar, and grated coconut easier to digest and healthier.

Also Read: Eggs and Daily Consumption: Unscrambling the Facts

Never allow yourself to be constipated. *The stomach is a storehouse of all kinds of ailments. Our sedentary life tends to make us constipated. Keep your bowels clean. Impose strict discipline on your daily routine of eating and exercise.

Try to develop peace of mind. For this, you must have a healthy bank account. Shortage of money can be very demoralizing. It does not have to be in crores, but enough for your future needs and the possibility of falling ill. Never lose your temper, it takes a heavy toll and jangles one’s nerves.

Give generously. Remember you can’t take it with you. You may give to your children, servants, or charity. You will feel better. There is joy in giving. Drive out envy of those who have done better than you in life. Do not conform to the tradition of old people spending time in prayer and long hours in places of worship. That amounts to conceding defeat. Instead, take up a hobby like gardening, growing bonsai, or helping children in your neighborhood with their homework.

Recommended Recipe: Fermented RAGI (Finger Millet) IDLIS- Gluten Free | Gut Friendly | Breakfast Recipe

A practice which I have found very effective is to fix my gaze on the flame of a candle, empty my mind of everything, but in my mind repeat Waheguru, Waheguru, Waheguru Aum Shanti, Aum Shanti, Aum Shanti. It does work. I am at peace with the world.

We can’t all be Fauja Singh who at 100 runs a marathon race, but we can equal him in longevity and creativity. I wish all my readers long, healthy lives full of happiness.

Khushwant Singh

It’s sad that Khushwant Singh couldn’t complete a century. He left this world shortly after completing 99. This is probably the best ever advice to senior citizens that I have read! 🌹🙏

Found this note on internet, credited to the illustrious writer, hopefully it is being rightly attributed, otherwise still sounds like a good advice, regardless of the source it is coming from. Do share the same with someone in your friends and family – with someone to whose life this could make a difference.

Got more advice to share or thoughts to add – fireaway in the comments below.

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Habits That Pay Off Forever

Building habits that contribute to long-term success and well-being is essential. The habits discussed here, though challenging to adopt, offer immense benefits that last a lifetime. Let’s dive into these habits and see how they can transform your life.

1. Fixing Your Sleep Schedule

A consistent sleep schedule is crucial for mental and physical health. Quality sleep supports memory consolidation, mood regulation, and overall productivity. Here’s how to improve your sleep hygiene:

  • Regular Sleep Routine: Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. This helps regulate your body’s internal clock.
  • Cool, Dark, and Quiet Environment: A bedroom that’s cool, dark, and free from noise can significantly improve sleep quality. Consider blackout curtains and earplugs if necessary.
  • Limit Screen Time: Avoid screens at least an hour before bed as the blue light emitted by phones, tablets, and computers can interfere with your ability to fall asleep.
  • Avoid Stimulants: Caffeine and nicotine can disrupt sleep, especially when consumed in the late afternoon or evening.

2. Delaying Gratification

Delaying gratification is a cornerstone of long-term success. This habit teaches patience and improves decision-making skills. Here’s how you can practice it:

  • Set Clear Goals: Define what you want to achieve and understand the long-term benefits of waiting.
  • Create Small Rewards: Reward yourself for small accomplishments on the way to your larger goal. This helps to maintain motivation.
  • Practice Self-Control: Engage in activities that require discipline, like meditation or mindful eating, to strengthen your ability to delay gratification.

3. Shorten the Distance Between Idea and Action

Procrastination can hinder progress. Reducing the time between having an idea and taking action can help break the procrastination cycle. Here’s how to make it happen:

  • Immediate Action: When you have an idea, take the first step immediately, no matter how small.
  • Break Tasks into Smaller Steps: Large projects can be overwhelming. Breaking them down into smaller, manageable tasks can make them seem less daunting.
  • Accountability Partner: Share your goals with a friend or mentor who can hold you accountable.

4. Saying “NO”

Learning to say no is vital for managing time and maintaining focus. Successful people often attribute their productivity to the ability to decline non-essential tasks. Here’s how to do it effectively:

  • Know Your Priorities: Be clear about what’s important to you. This makes it easier to recognize when to say no.
  • Be Polite but Firm: You can decline requests without being rude. Practice ways to say no that feel comfortable to you.
  • Avoid Overcommitting: Recognize your limits and don’t agree to more than you can handle.

5. Being Afraid of Something and Doing It Anyway

Facing fears and stepping out of your comfort zone is essential for personal growth. Embracing challenges despite fear builds resilience and opens up new opportunities. Here’s how to tackle your fears:

  • Start Small: Begin with small steps towards facing your fears to build confidence.
  • Visualize Success: Picture yourself successfully overcoming your fear. This can boost your confidence and motivation.
  • Learn from Experience: Reflect on past experiences where you’ve overcome fear and apply those lessons to new challenges.

6. Don’t Care About How People View You

Building self-confidence and ignoring negative opinions from others can significantly impact your well-being. Here’s how to stay true to yourself:

  • Identify Your Values: Know what’s important to you and stay committed to those values, regardless of others’ opinions.
  • Surround Yourself with Positivity: Spend time with people who support and uplift you.
  • Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself and focus on your strengths and achievements.

7. Do Boring Tasks Even When You Don’t Feel Like It

Consistency in performing mundane but essential tasks leads to long-term success. Here’s how to stay disciplined:

  • Create a Routine: Establish a daily schedule that includes time for boring but necessary tasks.
  • Focus on Long-Term Benefits: Remind yourself of the long-term rewards that come from staying consistent.
  • Use Rewards: Treat yourself to something enjoyable after completing a boring task to stay motivated.

8. Learn Not to Form Opinions About Events Out of Your Control

Focusing on what you can control and letting go of what you cannot reduces stress and improves mental health. Here’s how to develop this mindset:

  • Practice Mindfulness: Mindfulness meditation can help you stay focused on the present moment and reduce anxiety about things beyond your control.
  • Keep a Journal: Writing down your thoughts can help you process and let go of concerns that you cannot influence.
  • Focus on Solutions: When faced with a problem, concentrate on what you can do to address it, rather than dwelling on what’s out of your control.

9. Study Philosophy to Become a Better You

Philosophy provides insights into human behavior and ethics, helping you make more informed decisions. Here’s how to get started:

  • Read Accessible Philosophy Books: Start with books that are easy to understand and provide practical insights.
  • Join Discussion Groups: Engage in discussions with others to deepen your understanding and gain new perspectives.
  • Reflect on Philosophical Ideas: Apply philosophical concepts to your daily life and reflect on how they influence your actions and decisions.

10. Seek Feedback and Use It to Improve

Constructive feedback is crucial for growth. Actively seeking and implementing feedback can help you refine your skills and achieve better outcomes. Here’s how to leverage feedback:

  • Ask for Specific Feedback: Request detailed feedback on particular areas you want to improve.
  • Listen Actively: Be open to criticism and consider it as an opportunity for growth.
  • Implement Changes: Take actionable steps based on the feedback you receive and monitor your progress.

11. Never Be the Best – Always Find Someone Better Than You

Surrounding yourself with people who are more skilled or knowledgeable pushes you to improve continuously. Here’s how to embrace this mindset:

  • Seek Mentors and Role Models: Find individuals who excel in areas you want to improve and learn from them.
  • Engage in Lifelong Learning: Continuously seek new knowledge and skills to stay ahead.
  • Stay Humble: Recognize that there is always more to learn and be open to new ideas.

12. Exercise and Eat Healthy from a Young Age

Adopting healthy habits early in life can prevent numerous health issues and improve longevity. Here’s how to develop a healthy lifestyle:

  • Incorporate Physical Activity: Find activities you enjoy and make them a regular part of your routine.
  • Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on consuming a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
  • Avoid Processed Foods: Limit intake of processed and sugary foods to maintain optimal health.

Conclusion

Incorporating these habits into your daily routine can have profound long-term benefits. Start small, be patient with yourself, and watch as these habits transform your life. Share your experiences and progress in the comments below!

FAQs

1. Why is fixing my sleep schedule important? Fixing your sleep schedule is crucial because it helps regulate your body’s internal clock, leading to better sleep quality. This improves memory consolidation, mood regulation, and overall productivity.

2. How can I practice delaying gratification effectively? Start by setting small, manageable goals and rewarding yourself for achieving them. Practice mindfulness to increase self-control and avoid temptations by removing distractions.

3. What are some strategies to overcome procrastination? To overcome procrastination, break tasks into smaller steps, take immediate action on ideas, and use tools like to-do lists and reminders. Having an accountability partner can also help you stay on track.

4. How can I politely say no to tasks that don’t align with my priorities? Be clear about your priorities, practice saying no politely but firmly, and avoid overcommitting yourself. You can use phrases like “I appreciate the offer, but I need to focus on my current projects.”

5. How can I build the habit of facing my fears? Start with small steps towards facing your fears to build confidence. Visualize success and learn from past experiences where you’ve overcome fear. Surround yourself with supportive people.

6. How can I stop caring about how others view me? Identify and embrace your strengths, practice positive self-talk, and surround yourself with supportive people. Focus on your values and goals to navigate life more authentically.

7. Why is it important to do boring tasks even when I don’t feel like it? Consistency in performing mundane but essential tasks leads to long-term success. Creating a routine, focusing on long-term benefits, and using rewards can help maintain motivation.

8. How can I learn to focus on things within my control? Practice mindfulness meditation, keep a journal to reflect on your thoughts, and focus on solutions rather than problems. This helps reduce stress and improve mental health.

9. What are some beginner-friendly philosophy books? Beginner-friendly philosophy books include “Sophie’s World” by Jostein Gaarder, “The Consolations of Philosophy” by Alain de Botton, and “Meditations” by Marcus Aurelius. These books provide practical insights and are easy to understand.

10. How can seeking feedback improve my skills? Constructive feedback helps identify areas for improvement. Ask for specific feedback, listen actively, and take actionable steps based on the feedback you receive. Implementing changes and tracking your progress leads to continuous growth.

Blog Tags

habits for success, personal development, sleep schedule, delayed gratification, overcoming procrastination, saying no, facing fears, self-confidence, mindfulness, philosophy, seeking feedback, lifelong learning, healthy lifestyle, exercise and diet, productivity tips

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Bored with the same palak saag? Try This Delicious Palak Raita| Spinach Raita

Spinach is an excellent source iron, vitamin C and E, potassium, and magnesium. You can enjoy spinach in so many different ways cooked, raw or frozen. Either eat in chilled salad or sauté with your favorite veggies or make a smoothie but if you are bored using all these way spinach dry this Spinach/Palak raita. This is the best way to use those extra palak and when you are bored with the regular palak saag or palak roti or smoothie. This Spinach Raita is a refreshing and healthy side dish that pairs perfectly with dal rice, parathas, or can be enjoyed on its own. It’s simple to make and adds a delightful twist to your meal.

Ingredients:

  • Oil
  • 1 tsp Cumin seeds
  • 2 cups Palak (spinach), chopped
  • Salt, to taste
  • 1 cup Curd (yogurt)
  • 1 tsp Roasted Cumin powder
  • 1/2 tsp Black salt
  • 1/2 tsp Red chilli powder
  • Additional Salt, to taste

Method:

Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle. Add the chopped palak (spinach) and sauté until the water evaporates and the spinach is cooked through. Add salt to taste while sautéing.

In a bowl, beat the curd until smooth. Add roasted cumin powder, black salt, red chilli powder, and a little more salt to the curd. Mix well to combine.

Once the spinach has cooled slightly, add it to the curd mixture. Mix well to ensure the spinach is evenly distributed.

Serve chilled as a side dish with dal rice, parathas, or enjoy it just like that. I hope you enjoyed reading this recipe. Do give this recipe a shot. If you try this recipe, do give us a shout out. Just click a picture and tag us on @masala.monk or use the hashtag #MasalaMonkRecipe and share on Instagram and Facebook. We would love to hear from you.

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Ajwain leaves Paratha| Carom leaves flatbread Recipe

Creating a little kitchen garden in my house is no less than a dream for me. Living in a concrete jungle, we crave greenery and put in some effort to make a small kitchen garden. I love planting herbs like mint, coriander, carom leaves, and curry leaves in my kitchen garden, and I often use these herbs in my recipes. Ajwain, also known as carom seeds, is one of my favorites in my kitchen garden. I frequently make ajwain paratha for my kid’s lunch box and as a companion to my morning chai. This ajwain paratha is easy to make and healthy at the same time.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup wheat flour
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped ajwain leaves
  • 1 tablespoon ajwain seeds
  • 1 tablespoon oil or ghee (plus extra for cooking)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • Water (as needed)

Method:

Wash the ajwain leaves thoroughly and pat dry the leaves, now finely chop them and keep aside.

In a large mixing bowl, take wheat flour and add ajwain seeds, oil or ghee, salt, and the chopped ajwain leaves. Mix everything well to combine the ingredients.

Gradually add water to the mixture, little by little, and knead it into a smooth and firm dough. The amount of water required may vary, so add it gradually until the dough comes together. The dough should be soft but not sticky.

Once the dough is ready, cover it with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes. After the resting period, divide the dough into small sized portions. Take one portion and dust the rolling surface with flour and roll out the portion into a circle using a rolling pin. Heat a tawa or a non-stick pan over medium heat. Place the rolled paratha on the hot tawa and cook it . Drizzle a little oil or ghee around the edges of the paratha and flip it over using a spatula. Press the paratha gently with the spatula to help it cook evenly and cook for another minute or until both sides are golden brown.

Remove the cooked paratha from the tawa and place it on a plate. Serve the ajwain leaves paratha hot with a side of yogurt, pickle, or any curry of your choice. It also makes a delicious addition to a lunchbox or can be enjoyed with a hot cup of tea.

Enjoy your homemade ajwain leaves paratha! I hope you enjoyed reading this recipe. Do give this recipe a shot. If you try this recipe, do give us a shout out. Just click a picture and tag us on @masala.monk or use the hashtag #MasalaMonkRecipe and share on Instagram and Facebook. We would love to hear from you.