Category: Recipe

Posted on by — Leave a comment

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!

Posted on by — Leave a comment

Tempeh: A Plant-Based Protein Powerhouse

tempeh on a plate

Hello, Health Enthusiasts! 👋

Are you looking for a nutritious and versatile plant-based protein source? Look no further than tempeh! This Indonesian culinary gem has gained popularity worldwide as a nutritious and delicious alternative to meat. Today, we’re diving into the world of tempeh to discover what it is and how you can make it right in the comfort of your home in India. Get ready to embrace the power of plant-based protein! 🌱🇮🇳

What is Tempeh?

Tempeh is a fermented soybean product that originated in Indonesia. It is made by fermenting cooked soybeans with a tempeh starter culture, usually a specific strain of Rhizopus mold. The fermentation process binds the soybeans together, creating a firm and cake-like texture with a rich, nutty flavor. Tempeh is highly regarded for its nutritional profile, as it is an excellent source of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.

Why Choose Tempeh?

Tempeh offers a range of health benefits that make it a popular choice among those following a plant-based diet or looking to incorporate more plant-based proteins into their meals. Here are some reasons why you should consider adding tempeh to your culinary repertoire:

  1. High in Protein: Tempeh is a fantastic source of plant-based protein, containing all the essential amino acids your body needs. It provides around 15-20 grams of protein per 100 grams, making it an excellent protein option for vegans, vegetarians, or anyone looking to reduce their meat consumption.
  2. Rich in Fiber: Tempeh is also a great source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and promotes a healthy gut. Its fiber content helps you feel fuller for longer, making it a satisfying addition to your meals.
  3. Packed with Nutrients: Tempeh is a good source of various essential nutrients, including iron, calcium, magnesium, and vitamin B12. It also contains antioxidants and phytochemicals that support overall health and well-being.
  4. Versatile and Delicious: Tempeh’s firm texture and nutty flavor make it incredibly versatile in the kitchen. It can be marinated, sautéed, grilled, baked, or crumbled into various dishes, adding a delightful umami flavor and meaty texture.

Now, let’s explore how you can make tempeh at home in India:

How to Make Tempeh at Home:

Making tempeh at home requires a few simple steps and ingredients. Here’s a general guide to help you get started:

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups of soybeans
  • 1 tablespoon of tempeh starter culture (available online or at specialty health stores)
  • 1 teaspoon of white vinegar or lime juice (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Soybean Preparation: Start by soaking the soybeans in water overnight or for at least 8-10 hours. After soaking, drain and rinse the soybeans thoroughly.
  2. Cooking the Soybeans: Transfer the soaked and rinsed soybeans to a large pot and cover them with fresh water. Bring the water to a boil and cook the soybeans for about 40-50 minutes or until they are tender but not mushy. Stir occasionally and skim off any foam that forms on the surface.
  3. Cooling and Draining: Once the soybeans are cooked, drain them and rinse them under cold water to cool them down. Gently rub the soybeans between your hands or with a clean cloth to remove the outer skins. Removing the skins is optional but recommended for a smoother texture.
  4. Inoculation: Place the cooked and drained soybeans in a large mixing bowl and sprinkle the tempeh starter culture over them. If desired, add a teaspoon of white vinegar or lime juice to create an acidic environment for fermentation. Mix well to ensure the soybeans are evenly coated with the starter culture.
  5. Fermentation: Transfer the soybeans to a clean, shallow container or tray. Spread them out in an even layer, ensuring good air circulation. Cover the container with a clean cloth or plastic wrap with small holes to allow for airflow.
  6. Incubation: Place the container in a warm and dark place with a temperature between 28-32°C (82-90°F). Maintain the temperature consistently throughout the fermentation process, as temperature fluctuations can affect the quality of the tempeh. Incubation usually takes around 24-48 hours, depending on the temperature and desired fermentation level.
  7. Checking for Fermentation: After the incubation period, check the tempeh for a dense white mycelium (the network of mold). It should bind the soybeans together. A slightly nutty aroma is also a good sign of successful fermentation.
  8. Storing and Using: Once the tempeh is fully fermented, remove it from the incubator and let it cool to room temperature. Cut it into desired shapes or sizes and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Use it in various recipes, such as stir-fries, curries, salads, or even grilled as meat substitute.

Remember, the process of making tempeh may require some experimentation and adjustments based on your climate, as temperature and humidity can affect fermentation. But with practice, you’ll master the art of homemade tempeh and enjoy its wholesome goodness.

As you embark on your tempeh-making journey, don’t forget to share your experiences and culinary creations with us and our community of food lovers at EatLo. Let’s celebrate the power of plant-based proteins and inspire each other with our healthy and delicious tempeh creations!

Embrace the wonders of tempeh, a nutritious and versatile plant-based protein, and enjoy the benefits of this delightful Indonesian creation right in your own kitchen in India. Happy tempeh-making and bon appétit! 😜👊

Posted on by — Leave a comment

Pudding Palooza: 5 Indian-Inspired Dessert Ideas

two jars fruit shake

Hello, Dessert Enthusiasts! 👋

Get ready for a delightful treat for your taste buds as we delve into the world of pudding! Puddings have been a beloved dessert for centuries, offering a luscious and creamy texture that satisfies any sweet tooth. But today, we’re taking puddings to new heights by infusing them with the aromatic spices and ingredients that define Indian cuisine. Brace yourself for a pudding palooza that will leave you craving for more! 🌍🍮

Pudding: A Brief Introduction 🍮🌶️

Puddings come in various forms, from classic custard-based puddings to creamy rice and tapioca variations. These desserts have long been enjoyed around the world for their comforting and indulgent qualities. However, today, we’re going to give our puddings an Indian-inspired twist by infusing them with the vibrant flavors and fragrant spices of India. Prepare to savor a fusion of flavors that will elevate your pudding experience to new heights! 🌶️🍮

So, let’s explore five Indian-inspired variations of the classic pudding:

1. Cardamom Rice Pudding 🌱🍚

Take traditional rice pudding and infuse it with the aromatic flavors of cardamom. Begin by cooking rice with milk until it becomes soft and creamy. Add a touch of ground cardamom for its unique citrusy and herbal notes. Sweeten the pudding with sugar or jaggery and garnish with chopped pistachios or almonds. This cardamom rice pudding is a comforting dessert that will transport you to the streets of India, where the fragrance of cardamom permeates the air.

2. Mango Saffron Pudding 🌼🥭

Celebrate the king of fruits by incorporating mango into a creamy saffron-infused pudding. Begin by blending ripe mangoes into a smooth puree. In a separate saucepan, heat milk with saffron strands until the milk turns a vibrant golden color. Combine the saffron-infused milk with sugar and cornstarch to thicken the pudding. Once the mixture has thickened, stir in the mango puree and let it cool. The result is a luscious and tropical mango saffron pudding that captures the essence of Indian summers.

3. Pistachio and Rosewater Pudding 🥜🌹

Indulge in the delicate flavors of pistachio and rosewater in a creamy pudding. Begin by blending pistachios into a fine powder. In a saucepan, heat milk and sugar until it starts to simmer. Whisk in cornstarch and continue cooking until the mixture thickens. Stir in the ground pistachios and a splash of rosewater for a floral touch. Pour the mixture into individual serving dishes and let it set in the refrigerator. The result is a pistachio and rosewater pudding that offers a delightful blend of flavors and a hint of elegance.

4. Chai-Spiced Chocolate Pudding ☕🍫

Infuse your chocolate pudding with the cozy flavors of chai for a delightful fusion dessert. Begin by melting dark chocolate and stirring in a mixture of cocoa powder, sugar, and a blend of chai spices like cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and ginger. In a separate saucepan, heat milk until steaming and whisk it into the chocolate mixture. Continue cooking until the pudding thickens. Pour the pudding into serving dishes and let it chill in the refrigerator until set. This chai-spiced chocolate pudding is a decadent treat that combines the richness of chocolate with the comforting flavors of Indian chai.

5. Gulkand Custard Pudding 🌹🥛

Discover the sweet and floral flavors of gulkand in a creamy custard pudding. Gulkand, a sweet preserve made from rose petals, adds a unique and fragrant element to this dessert. Begin by preparing a classic custard base by heating milk, sugar, and vanilla extract. Once the mixture is warm, whisk in egg yolks and cornstarch to thicken the custard. Stir in gulkand for its sweet and rosy flavors. Let the pudding cool and set in the refrigerator. This gulkand custard pudding is a delightful fusion of textures and tastes, offering a unique twist on the traditional custard.

As you indulge in these Indian-inspired puddings, don’t forget to share your culinary creations with us and our community of food lovers at EatLo. Let’s celebrate the joy of fusion cooking and inspire each other with our sweet delights!

Experience the fusion of flavors and textures with each spoonful of these Indian-inspired pudding variations. It’s a pudding palooza that marries the best of both worlds and will leave you with a satisfied and happy sweet tooth! 😜👊

Posted on by — 1 Comment

Churros with a Twist: 5 Indian-Inspired Variations to Sweeten Your Day

appetizer bake bakery baking

Hello, Sweet Tooths! 👋

Get ready to embark on a delectable journey of crispy, sugary goodness as we dive into the world of churros! These delightful fried pastries have captured hearts around the globe with their irresistible texture and heavenly taste. But today, we’re taking churros to new heights by infusing them with the vibrant and aromatic flavors of Indian cuisine. Get ready for a churro fiesta like never before! 🌍🍩

Churros: A Brief Introduction 🍩🌶️

Originating from Spain, churros are a beloved treat often enjoyed with a cup of hot chocolate or dipped in various sauces. Traditionally, they are made from a simple dough, deep-fried until golden and crispy, and coated in cinnamon sugar. However, today, we’re going to infuse these delectable treats with the bold and aromatic spices that characterize Indian cooking. Brace yourself for a churro experience that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more! 🇪🇸🍩

So, let’s explore five Indian-inspired variations of the classic churro:

1. Cardamom Sugar Churros 🌱🍩

Give your churros an Indian twist by adding a touch of cardamom to the traditional cinnamon sugar coating. Cardamom, with its warm and citrusy flavor, adds a delightful aromatic note to the churros. Begin by preparing the churro dough using a combination of flour, water, butter, and a pinch of salt. Once fried to perfection, roll the churros in a mixture of sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of ground cardamom. The result is a fusion of flavors that will transport you to the bustling streets of India, where the fragrance of cardamom permeates the air.

2. Saffron Churros with Pistachio Dust 🌼🥜

Infuse your churros with the golden hue and delicate flavor of saffron. Begin by dissolving a pinch of saffron threads in warm water and adding it to the churro dough. The saffron will lend a beautiful color and a subtle floral note to the churros. Fry them until golden and crispy, and dust them with a mixture of ground pistachios and powdered sugar for a nutty and vibrant twist. These saffron churros with pistachio dust are a celebration of flavors and colors inspired by Indian sweets.

3. Coconut Curry Churros with Mango Dipping Sauce 🌴🍛

Experience a fusion of flavors with coconut curry churros paired with a tangy mango dipping sauce. Begin by adding shredded coconut and a hint of curry powder to the churro dough, infusing it with a tropical twist. Fry the churros until golden and crispy, and serve them with a luscious mango dipping sauce. To make the sauce, puree ripe mangoes with a touch of lime juice and a pinch of red chili powder for a delightful balance of sweetness and tanginess. The combination of the savory coconut curry churros and the sweet-tangy mango sauce will transport you straight to the sunny beaches of India.

4. Jaggery and Cardamom Churros with Ghee Drizzle 🍯🌱

Indulge in the rich and caramel-like flavor of jaggery in your churros. Begin by replacing the traditional sugar in the dough with jaggery, a traditional Indian sweetener made from sugarcane or palm sap. Add a pinch of ground cardamom for an aromatic touch. Fry the churros until golden and coat them in a mixture of jaggery and cinnamon. To elevate the experience, drizzle them with ghee (clarified butter) for a rich and decadent finish. These jaggery and cardamom churros with ghee drizzle are a celebration of Indian flavors and comforting sweetness.

5. Chai-Spiced Churros with Chocolate Chai Dipping Sauce ☕🍫

Immerse yourself in the cozy flavors of chai with chai-spiced churros and a chocolate chai dipping sauce. Begin by adding warm and aromatic spices like cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and cardamom to the churro dough. Fry them until golden and coat them in a mixture of sugar and chai spices. For the dipping sauce, prepare a velvety chocolate ganache infused with chai spices, such as cinnamon and cardamom. The combination of the chai-spiced churros and the indulgent chocolate chai sauce is a match made in dessert heaven!

As you embark on your churro adventure, don’t forget to share your culinary triumphs with us and our community of food lovers at EatLo. Let’s celebrate the joy of fusion cooking and inspire each other with our churro creations!

Indulge in the fusion of flavors and textures with each delectable bite of these Indian-inspired churros. It’s a churro fiesta that brings together the best of both worlds and will leave you wanting more! 😜👊

Posted on by — 3 Comments

Pesto Pasta: Adding 5 Delightful Indian Twists to the Italian Classic

pesto paste on ceramic bowl

Namaste, Pasta Aficionados! 👋

Prepare to embark on a pasta voyage like never before. Picture this – your favourite Pesto Pasta decides to take a well-deserved vacation to the land of spices, India. The result? An unthinkably scrumptious fusion that would leave even the Italian Nonnas scratching their heads in amazement! Are you ready to witness this flavoursome spectacle? Then buckle up, and let’s hit the spice road! 🌍🔥

Pesto Pasta: A Quick Recap 🍝🌶️

First, let’s address the pasta in the room. Pesto Pasta, an Italian darling, has wormed its way into global hearts with its exquisite simplicity. Its traditional version, hailing from Genoa, is a brilliant concoction of fresh basil, pine nuts, Parmigiano-Reggiano, garlic, coarse salt, and olive oil. It’s hard to resist, we agree, but our beloved pasta has packed its bags and is all set for an Indian adventure! 🇮🇹🍝

And guess what? This isn’t just a riot of flavours that’ll make your taste buds dance the Bhangra. Our Indian twists are also loaded with nutritious elements. Here’s presenting Pesto Pasta’s crazy, funny, and incredibly delicious Indian saga:

1. Coriander Pesto Pasta or ‘Dhania Pesto Pasta’ 🌿

Think of this as Pesto Pasta trying out the Indian green carpet look! Substitute basil with fresh dhania (coriander), and you’ve got yourself a green sauce that screams ‘desi’. Toss it with whole wheat spaghetti (because, hey, we’re health-conscious too!) and crown it with a sprinkle of roasted jeera (cumin) and crushed peanuts. It’s like our pasta just walked the ramp at a fashion week in Delhi!

2. Mint Pesto Pasta or ‘Pudina Pesto Pasta’ 🍃

This one’s like Pesto Pasta’s beach vacation in Goa. Fresh pudina (mint) replaces the traditional basil, giving the pesto a fresh, tropical twist. Blend it with almonds (pine nuts, who?), garlic, lime juice, and olive oil, and what you get is a pesto sauce that’s ready to party. Add some fusilli or penne to the mix and top it off with grated coconut. It’s like sipping a margarita on an Indian beach, but in pasta form!

3. Curry Leaf Pesto Pasta or ‘Kadi Patta Pesto Pasta’ 🍛

Picture Pesto Pasta trying out the traditional South Indian lungi dance – hilarious, right? This variation is exactly that! Replace the basil with kadi patta (curry leaves), and blend it with walnuts to get an aromatic pesto. Toss your pasta in this for an unforgettable taste and top it off with a sizzling tadka (tempering) of mustard seeds and dry red chillies. This dish is ready to do the lungi dance on your plate!

4. Spinach Pesto Pasta or ‘Palak Pesto Pasta’ 🥬

Inspired by the famous Indian dish Palak Paneer, this version sees our Pesto Pasta trying out Bollywood-style romance. Make a pesto using blanched palak (spinach) and let your pasta sway in this green, nutrient-rich sauce. Throw in some paneer (Indian cottage cheese) cubes, and voila! Your pasta is ready to serenade you, Bollywood style!

5. Tomato and Sesame Pesto Pasta or ‘Tamatar Til Pesto Pasta’ 🍅

Think of this as Pesto Pasta’s rendezvous with Rajasthan’s vibrant culture. Sun-dried tamatar (tomatoes) and til (sesame seeds) give a flavourful twist to the traditional pesto. Add a sprinkle of fresh dhania (coriander), and you have a pasta dish that’s as colourful and tangy as a Rajasthani folk dance!

So, here’s the thing, folks. These Indian spins on Pesto Pasta are not just hilarious to imagine, they’re also incredibly delicious to devour! And remember, in the realm of fusion cooking, there are no rules. Only the wild, wild joy of experimentation.

As you create these laugh-out-loud funny pasta dishes, do share your culinary stories and pictures with us and our community of food lovers at EatLo. Let’s laugh, cook, experiment, and celebrate our love for food, one pasta dish at a time!

After all, who knew Pesto Pasta’s Indian vacation would be this hilarious and mouth-watering? But hey, that’s the beauty of food fusion! 😜👊