Category: Recipe

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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! 😜👊

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Waffles Unleashed: 5 Exciting Indian Twists to the Belgian Breakfast Icon

Namaste, Foodies! 👋

Pack your culinary bags because we’re going on an exciting gastronomic adventure today. We’re going to take the beloved breakfast mainstay – waffles, all the way from the streets of Belgium to the vibrant bylanes of India. Curious? Let’s dive right in! 🌍🔥

Waffles: A Timeless Treat🧇🌶️

Originating from the heart of Europe, waffles with their characteristic grid pattern and delightful crisp yet fluffy texture, have managed to capture the imagination of breakfast tables worldwide. Traditionally savoured with a dusting of powdered sugar or doused in maple syrup, waffles have an undeniable charm. But how about we add a dash of Indian flavours and jazz them up a bit? 🇧🇪🍽️

And the best part? These ‘desi’ spins on waffles not only offer a burst of flavours but also pack in some amazing health benefits. A flavourful feast that’s good for you – what’s not to love? 💪

So, without further ado, here are five exciting Indian twists to your classic waffles:

1. Masala Chai Waffles or ‘Chai Waffles’ 🍵

Imagine sipping on your favourite masala chai and biting into a waffle that tastes just like it! To make these, infuse your waffle batter with a fragrant blend of Indian masala chai spices like elaichi (cardamom), adrak (ginger), laung (cloves), and dalchini (cinnamon). The aromatic spices will permeate your waffles, creating a unique and comforting treat. Pair these with a drizzle of shahad (honey) or melted gur (jaggery) to balance the spicy kick with a touch of sweetness!

2. Coconut and Jaggery Waffles or ‘Nariyal Gur Waffles’ 🥥

Nothing screams ‘tropical bliss’ more than the combination of coconut and jaggery, popular in many Indian regional cuisines. To create these, replace the regular milk in your waffle batter with creamy coconut milk and add desiccated nariyal (coconut) for that extra crunch. Top off these waffles with a generous drizzle of melted gur (jaggery), a sweetener with a distinct, earthy flavour, used extensively in Indian cooking. You’ll be transported to the sunny coastlines of India with each bite!

3. Mango and Cardamom Waffles or ‘Aam Elaichi Waffles’ 🥭

India’s love affair with mango, the king of fruits, is well known. How about combining this sweet, tangy delight with the fragrant elaichi (cardamom) to make your waffles irresistibly good? For these, incorporate fresh aam (mango) pulp and a pinch of elaichi powder into your waffle batter. Top your cooked waffles with more fresh mango pieces and a dollop of dahi (yogurt) to balance out the sweetness. Perfect for a sunny summer breakfast!

4. Saffron and Pistachio Waffles or ‘Kesar Pista Waffles’ 🌰

Transform your ordinary waffles into a royal treat with the addition of kesar (saffron) and pista (pistachios). Mix a few strands of kesar and crushed pistachios into your waffle batter. The kesar lends a lovely golden hue and a unique, floral flavour to the waffles, while the pistachios provide a delightful crunch. Garnish these rich waffles with a sprinkle of chopped pistachios and a drizzle of shahad (honey) for an indulgent breakfast treat!

5. Savory Chickpea Waffles or ‘Besan Waffles’ 🧆

Break the sweet stereotype of waffles with this savory variant. Combine besan (chickpea flour) with spices like haldi (turmeric), jeera (cumin), mirchi (chili), and a generous handful of chopped dhania (coriander) to make a savory waffle batter. The chickpea flour gives a lovely nutty flavour and is packed with protein. Serve these with dhania-pudina chutney (coriander-mint chutney) for an Indian twist to your breakfast routine!

These intriguing Indian spins on waffles are just the beginning. There’s a whole universe of flavours to explore and fuse with your beloved breakfast staple!

Remember, there’s no limit to your culinary creativity. So, bring out your waffle makers and get started on this Indian waffle extravaganza. Don’t forget to share your waffle tales with us and our food-loving community at EatLo. Together, let’s cook, experiment, and celebrate our love for food, one waffle at a time!

The waffle revolution is here! After all, who can resist the charm of a crispy, fluffy waffle adorned with a dash of Indian magic? 😜👊

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Fish and Chips Reimagined: 5 Indian Twists on a British Classic

woman hand squeezing lemon over fish on plate

Namaste, Food Aficionados! 👋

Gear up for an enthralling culinary journey as we infuse the beloved British comfort food, Fish and Chips, with the vibrant essence of Indian cuisine. Fasten your aprons and prepare for an extraordinary taste experience that promises to make your taste buds dance with joy! 🌍🔥

Fish and Chips: The British Gem 🐟🍟🌶️

As quintessentially British as the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace, Fish and Chips is a cherished dish worldwide. Traditionally, it features a fillet of fish, coated in batter and deep-fried until golden, paired with a hearty serving of crispy chips. But today, we’re taking this simple, comforting classic on an exciting Indian adventure! 🇬🇧🍽️

Fish and Chips typically stars cod or haddock, but for our Indian interpretations, feel free to experiment with other types of firm white fish. Basa (known as “Bhetki” in Bengali), tilapia (locally known as “Thilopia”), or even kingfish (locally referred to as “Surmai” in Hindi and Marathi, “Vanjaram” in Telugu, “Neymeen” in Malayalam, and “Anjal” in Kannada and Tulu) work excellently. If you’re looking for vegetarian alternatives, tofu or paneer can mimic the texture of fish excellently when prepared right.

This fusion dish is more than just a sensory feast; it’s a nutritional powerhouse. Fish is a quality protein source, packed with heart- and brain-healthy Omega-3 fatty acids. When married with Indian spices and healthier cooking methods, it’s a delightful addition to a balanced diet. 🌟

Now, let’s reel in the enticing Indian twists we’re bringing to the much-loved Fish and Chips!

1. Masala Fish and Chips 🌶️

Kick-start your culinary adventure by marinating your fish fillets in a robust blend of Indian spices: turmeric, cumin, red chili powder, and amchur (dried mango powder) for an unexpected tang. The bold flavor of tilapia (or Thilopia) works wonderfully with these spices. Deep-fry the fillets until they are golden and serve with chips sprinkled with chat masala and red chili powder for a fiery twist on the British classic!

2. Tandoori Fish and Sweet Potato Chips 🍠

Swap the traditional batter with a spicy Tandoori marinade. Blend yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, and Kashmiri red chili, then coat your fish fillets—preferably kingfish (or Surmai/Vanjaram/Neymeen/Anjal)—with this tantalizing mix. Grill the fish for a healthier twist and pair it with a side of roasted sweet potato chips. Sweet potatoes are rich in fiber and vitamin A, making this an incredibly tasty and nutritious treat!

3. Amritsari Fish and Aloo Tikki 🥔

Channel the rich flavors of Punjab with our take on Amritsari Fish. Marinate your fish fillets, ideally basa (or Bhetki), in a mix of gram flour (besan), ajwain (carom seeds), ginger-garlic paste, and a medley of spices, before frying them to achieve a crispy shell encasing a tender, flavorful interior. Swap traditional chips with Aloo Tikki (Indian spiced potato patties) for a heartwarming twist.

4. Coconut Crusted Fish and Banana Chips 🥥

Venture down south with a delicious coconut crusted fish. Coat your fish fillets, preferably kingfish (or Surmai/Vanjaram/Neymeen/Anjal), in a batter of desiccated coconut, rice flour, and spices before frying. The crisp, sweet coconut coating and the flaky fish make for a heavenly combination. Serve with Kerala-style banana chips for a true Southern Indian experience.

5. Baked Fish in Banana Leaf and Baked Masala Fries 🍃

Our final variant is a melody of taste and health. Wrap your spiced fish fillets, ideally tilapia (or Thilopia), in a banana leaf and bake. This method seals in the flavors and ensures a juicy, tender fish. Pair this with a side of baked masala fries, seasoned with your favorite Indian spices. This delectable variant is a testament to the fact that health and taste can go hand in hand!

These variations of Fish and Chips celebrate the magic of fusion cuisine and the culinary wealth of India. But these are just the starting point! Unleash your culinary creativity and experiment with different Indian twists.

And don’t forget to share your delightful creations with us and our community of food lovers at EatLo. Let’s cook, share, and celebrate our love for exploring cuisines, one dish at a time.

As a funny thought, we all know how the British turned our humble Chicken Tikka into the world-renowned Chicken Tikka Masala, right? So why can’t we have a little fun with their Fish and Chips? It’s time to return the favor – and trust us, it’s going to be delicious payback! 😜👊

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Chia Pudding: 6 Easy Summer and Spring Breakfasts / Snacks

Welcome to the world of chia pudding, a delightful journey of taste and nutrition brought to you by the Toasty Apron YouTube channel. This channel is a treasure trove of simple, healthy, and delicious recipes that are perfect for meal prep and on-the-go snacks. In this blog post, we’ll explore six different chia pudding recipes featured in their video, “CHIA PUDDING » 6 Flavours for Easy, Healthy Breakfast Snacks | Spring/Summer Meal Prep”.

Chia pudding is a versatile and nutrient-packed dish that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Originating from the ancient Aztec and Mayan cultures, chia seeds were considered a staple food, valued for their energy-boosting properties. Today, these tiny seeds are recognized as a “superfood” due to their high content of fiber, protein, antioxidants, vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids. When soaked in liquid, chia seeds absorb up to 12 times their weight, creating a gel-like substance that forms the basis of chia pudding. This simple dish can be customized with a variety of flavors and toppings, making it a delicious and healthy choice for breakfast, snack, or dessert.

6. Mango Coconut Chia Pudding 🥭🥥

This tropical delight combines the sweet flavor of ripe mango with the creaminess of coconut milk. The pudding is layered with mango puree and topped with mango chunks and coconut flakes, making it a perfect treat for the spring and summer months. The combination of mango and coconut not only brings a tropical twist to your breakfast but also provides a good dose of vitamin C, fiber, and healthy fats.

5. Orange Creamsicle Chia Pudding 🍊

This refreshing citrus blast is made with the juice of three mandarins, light coconut milk, and a touch of vanilla extract. Topped with a spoonful of Greek yogurt, mandarin slices, and coconut flakes, it’s a summery treat that tastes just like the beloved popsicle. The mandarins provide a good dose of vitamin C and fiber, while the Greek yogurt adds a protein punch.

4. Very Berry Chia Pudding 🍓

This super refreshing and easy-to-make pudding is perfect for berry lovers. The base is made by blending milk, maple syrup, and frozen berries until smooth. The pudding is then topped with fresh or thawed berries, granola, and hemp seeds for an extra crunch. Berries are packed with antioxidants and vitamins, making this pudding a super nutritious start to your day.

3. Apple Pie Chia Pudding 🍏

This pudding tastes just like a slice of apple pie. The base is made with unsweetened applesauce and a hint of cinnamon. The pudding is topped with caramelized apple chunks cooked with coconut oil, maple syrup, and cinnamon, making it a delicious treat for any time of the year. Apples are a great source of dietary fiber and vitamin C, and when combined with the protein-packed chia seeds, this pudding becomes a balanced meal.

2. Pumpkin Spice Chia Pudding 🎃

This fall favorite combines pure pumpkin puree with pumpkin pie spice and vanilla extract. Topped with a spoonful of Greek yogurt, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and crushed almonds, it’s a perfect treat for when you’re craving some pumpkin spice. Pumpkin is a great source of beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant that gives the pumpkin its orange color. It’s also high in fiber and vitamin C, making this pudding a nutritious and comforting treat.

1. Chocolate Banana Chia Pudding 🍫🍌

This decadent pudding is perfect for dessert or a rich breakfast. The base is made with cocoa powder and crushed chocolate or chocolate chips. The pudding is then topped with banana slices, more crushed chocolate, and crushed almonds, making it a smooth, chocolatey treat. Bananas are a great source of potassium and vitamin B6, and when combined with the antioxidants in the cocoa powder, this pudding becomes a delicious and healthy treat.

Chia pudding is not only delicious but also packed with fiber, protein, antioxidants, vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids, making it a great choice for a healthy snack, breakfast, or dessert. It’s also perfect for meal prep as it stays fresh for about five days in the fridge.

If you’re interested in joining a community of food lovers who share their experiments and results, consider joining the Vibrant and Engaging Food Lovers of Eatlo – Facebook group. It’s a great place to share your chia pudding creations and learn from others.

Remember, the journey to a healthier lifestyle starts with a single step. Start making your chia puddings today! 🌱🌱🌱

All credit for these amazing recipes goes to the Toasty Apron YouTube channel. Be sure to check out their video, “CHIA PUDDING » 6 Flavours for Easy, Healthy Breakfast Snacks | Spring/Summer Meal Prep”, for more details and inspiration.

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4 Super Healthy Sprouts You can Grow at Home

happy asian women cooking oriental noodles in kitchen

Welcome to a journey of health and wellness brought to you by the vibrant and inspiring YouTube channel, Splash of Goodness. Hosted by Eva, a passionate health coach, the channel is a treasure trove of information and inspiration for those seeking to lead a healthier lifestyle. Today, we delve into one of their enlightening videos titled “How To Grow Sprouts at Home | 4 Super Healthy Sprouts”.

Sprouts, the tiny powerhouses of nutrition, are a must-have in your diet. They are packed with essential nutrients and are incredibly easy to grow at home. In this video, Eva introduces us to the world of sprouts, their benefits, and the simple process of growing them at home.

🌿 The Importance of Sprouts

Sprouts are the germinated seeds of legumes or grains, and they are a powerhouse of nutrition. They are rich in vitamins, minerals, proteins, and enzymes that aid digestion. Sprouts are also known for their high fiber content, which aids in digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness.

Eating sprouts is like consuming a complete vegetable in itself. For instance, just three tablespoons of broccoli seeds can grow into a volume of sprouts that is equivalent to eating a large amount of fully grown vegetables. Sprouts are also a great source of plant-based protein, making them an excellent choice for vegetarians and vegans.

🌱 The Countdown of Homegrown Goodness

Let’s dive into the process of growing sprouts at home, as demonstrated by Eva in the video. We will be focusing on four types of sprouts: Alfalfa, Radish, Lentils, and Broccoli.

4. Broccoli Sprouts 🥦

Broccoli sprouts are packed with nutrients and are easy to grow. Unlike other seeds, broccoli seeds do not need to be soaked overnight. They only need to be soaked for two to four hours during the day. After soaking, rinse them twice and let them drain.

3. Lentil Sprouts 🌾

Lentil sprouts are a rich source of protein and fiber. To grow them, soak a quarter cup of lentils in a jar overnight. The next morning, drain the water and rinse them twice. Lentil sprouts grow faster and are usually ready in three days.

2. Alfalfa Sprouts 🌱

Alfalfa sprouts are known for their rich flavor and crunchy texture. To grow them, add two tablespoons of alfalfa seeds to a jar and soak them overnight. Rinely rinse and drain them the next morning.

1. Radish Sprouts 🌶️

Radish sprouts are the star of the show. They have a spicy flavor and are packed with nutrients. To grow them, add two tablespoons of radish seeds to a jar and soak them overnight. Rinely rinse and drain them the next morning.

After the initial soaking and rinsing process, continue to rinse the sprouts twice daily for the next four to five days. Once the sprouts are fully grown, rinse them one final time, let them dry, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Growing your own sprouts is not only a fun and educational project, but it also allows you to have fresh, nutritious food right at your fingertips.

This blog post is based on the video “How To Grow Sprouts at Home | 4 Super Healthy Sprouts” by Splash of Goodness. All credit for the information and instructions goes to the host, Eva, and her wonderful channel. You can watch the full video here.

We invite you to join our Facebook group, Vibrant and Engaging Community of Food Lovers, where you can share your sprouting experiments and results with a community of like-minded individuals. Remember, your health is in your hands. Start sprouting today!