Lately, I’ve developed a deep affection for steel-cut oats. It’s surprising how quickly they’ve become a comfort food for me—something I genuinely look forward to eating, unlike many so-called ‘healthy’ alternatives. Of course, ‘healthy’ is subjective and should be defined by individual needs and preferences. Here is something that my git finds to be extremely healthy maybe something you might want to try as well.
Why Steel-Cut Oats?
Steel-cut oats offer a wholesome bowl of nourishment, combining whole, natural foods with a delicious taste. Their texture, fiber, and smoothness are simply amazing. Steel-cut oats are a fantastic source of fiber and essential nutrients, which can support digestion and overall wellness. If you haven’t tried them yet, I highly recommend giving them a go.
My Go-To Recipe
Here’s a basic recipe that I follow:
Roast the Oats: Start by roasting the steel-cut oats to enhance their flavor.
Cook the Oats: Boil the roasted oats in a pressure cooker until they are tender.
Add Milk: Once the oats are cooked, stir in some milk and refrigerate them to chill. I usually let them sit overnight to allow the milk and flavors to meld together.
Flavor Boost: Mango Magic
A major reason I’ve fallen for this dish is the mango season. I add a mango or two, chopped into bits. The natural sweetness of the mangoes is so satisfying that I skip any added sugar or sweeteners. Instead, I let the mangoes infuse their sweetness into the oats as they soak overnight.
Nutritional Enhancements
To add more texture and nutritional value, I also include:
Chia Seeds: About a tablespoon or two.
Fox Nuts (Makhane): Or other nuts, berries, or seeds.
This combination works wonderfully and provides a super prebiotic boost for my system. After experimenting with different ingredients, I found that chia seeds and makhane made a significant difference, prompting me to share this recipe.
Serving Suggestions
For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding:
Roohafza: A splash on top.
Cinnamon: A sprinkle for added warmth.
Feel free to experiment with different fruits, like berries or apples, depending on the season.
Personal Note
When I mention the ‘result,’ I’m not only referring to the taste but also how it makes my stomach feel the next day. The combination of steel-cut oats, mangoes, chia seeds, and makhane seems to act as a super prebiotic for my system, which is probably complemented by a kombucha tasting session later in the day. This dish fits perfectly into my daily routine, providing a satisfying and nutritious start to my day.
Before beginning the recipe, here’s a very interesting insight about Tater Tots. I am sure you know, Tater tots were invented by an American frozen food Company, Ore-Ida, in the year 1953. Tater is short for potato. This recipe came into being when the founders were trying to figure out what to do with the leftover slivers of cut-up potatoes. They chopped up the slivers, added flour and seasoning and the product was first offered commercially in stores in 1956.
Now, what I found most interesting is that, originally these tots were inexpensive. People didn’t buy it because they thought it’s cheap. It’s when the company raised it’s prices, people began buying it. Human psychology can really be weird. 😄 Today, Americans consume approximately 70 million pounds. Can you imagine!!!
Overtime recipe was developed further and potatoes were substituted with other nutritious vegetables like cauliflower, broccoli, zucchini.
These Homemade Tater Tots are way easier to throw together than I expected them to be, and my family loved them! So say goodbye to those frozen bags of tater tots. This homemade version is super easy to make, budget-friendly, and taste way better than store-bought!
So, here’s a healthy and a delicious twist on tater tots, made with nutrient-rich broccoli and crispy breadcrumbs, perfect as a side or snack.
Ingredients: for 30-35 tots
4 medium size boiled Potatoes
1/2 cup Sweet Corn Kernels
1 large head Broccoli, approx 350 grams
1 tbsp minced Garlic
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup Bread Crumbs
1 large Egg
1 tbsp Chilli flakes (optional)
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning (optional)
90 grams of Cheddar Cheese, grated
Method:
Grate boiled potatoes in a bowl. Add 1/2 cup frozen sweet corn kernels in boiling water. Keep aside for 10 minutes. You can use boiled fresh corn too.
Grate 1 large head of broccoli. Add 1 tsp salt to it and keep aside for 20 minutes.
Squeeze out as much water as you can from the broccoli. Coarsely blend corn in a blender. Just blitz for 10 to 15 seconds. (DO NOT ADD WATER). Add both broccoli and corn to the potatoes.
Now add minced garlic, salt & pepper to taste, egg, bread crumbs, chilli flakes, Italian seasoning and grated cheddar cheese (you can add more). Mix everything well and form a thick paste. If it feels sticky, add more bread crumbs.
Check for seasoning. Once ok, give it a cylindrical shape or any shape you like. Refrigerate it for 30 minutes.
Pre-heat the oven at 200°C.
Spray a nonstick baking sheet with oil. Alternatively, line baking tray with parchment paper and brush it with oil. Shape the mixture into tot shapes and spread them evenly on the sheet.
Bake for 8–9 minutes. Flip and then bake for an additional 8–9 minutes on the other side until golden brown.
Serve it with ketchup, mint chutney or tzatziki (hung curd dip). I personally enjoy them with tzatziki.
Aloo Gobi, a popular Indian dish made with cauliflower (gobi) and potatoes (aloo), is a delight to the senses with its vibrant colors, tantalizing aromas, and rich, spicy flavors. Its simplicity and the accessibility of its ingredients make it a common household dish in India and an excellent introduction to Indian cuisine for cooking enthusiasts worldwide.
This delicious vegetable curry, cooked Punjabi style, makes a great vegetarian main or a side dish to accompany your favorite meat curry. It can be prepared dry or as masala with a bit of gravy. It is also very adaptable to other vegetables, and peas (matar) can be added to create Aloo Gobi Matar.
The Recipe: Easy Aloo Gobi
Ingredients:
1 medium cauliflower (cut into florets)
2 medium potatoes (peeled and cubed)
1 cup green peas (optional)
3 tbsp vegetable oil
1 tsp cumin seeds
1 onion (finely chopped)
2 green chillies (slit lengthwise)
1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
2 tomatoes (finely chopped)
1/2 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp red chilli powder
2 tsp coriander powder
Salt to taste
Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)
Instructions:
Prepare the Vegetables: Wash the cauliflower florets and cubed potatoes thoroughly. If you’re using peas, ensure they are fresh or fully thawed if frozen.
Cook the Aloo and Gobi: Heat oil in a pan. Add the cumin seeds, and when they start to splutter, add the potatoes. Cook until they are half done. Now add the cauliflower florets and cook until both are tender and slightly golden brown.
Prepare the Masala: In a separate pan, heat some oil. Add the finely chopped onions and green chillies, sauté until the onions turn golden brown. Now add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for another minute. Add the finely chopped tomatoes and cook until they are soft and mushy.
Add the Spices: Now add the turmeric, red chilli, and coriander powder to the onion-tomato mixture. Stir well and cook until the raw smell of the spices goes away.
Combine Everything: Now add the cooked potatoes and cauliflower to this masala. Mix everything well, so the vegetables are well coated with the masala. Cook for a few more minutes. If using peas, add them now.
Garnish and Serve: Finish by seasoning with salt and garnishing with fresh coriander leaves. Serve your Aloo Gobi hot with rotis or rice.
Variations:
Aloo Gobi Matar: Add a cup of peas when you add the cooked potatoes and cauliflower to the masala. This variation adds an extra dimension to the dish and is perfect for when you want to up your vegetable intake.
Gobi Masala: Omit the potatoes and double the amount of cauliflower for a different take on the traditional recipe.
Aloo Gobi with Paneer: Add cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) towards the end for a protein boost. This variation transforms the dish into a wholesome main meal.
Gobi Curry: Increase the amount of tomatoes and add some water after adding the spices to create a delicious cauliflower curry with more gravy.
This easy-to-follow Aloo Gobi recipe is the perfect starting point for creating an Indian feast at home. Remember, the best thing about cooking is making a recipe your own, so feel free to experiment and enjoy the process. Happy cooking!
Blog Tags: Aloo Gobi, Indian Cuisine, Vegetarian Recipes, Indian Recipes, Easy Recipes, Cauliflower Recipes, Potato Recipes, Curry Recipes, Home Cooking, Spices, Vegetables, Healthy Eating, Vegan Recipes, Comfort Food, Dinner Ideas, Meal Prep, Cooking at Home, World Cuisine
There’s a certain magic that comes with the onset of the monsoons in India, a kind of nostalgia that tugs at our heartstrings. The pitter-patter of raindrops, the intoxicating smell of the wet earth, and the verdant landscape shimmering under the cloudy sky evoke memories of simpler times and bring to mind the heartening warmth of a piping hot cup of masala chai. And when the romance of the monsoon season intertwines with the comfort of a home-brewed chai, magic ensues.☔💭
This monsoon, let’s delve into the realm of masala chai, exploring five exquisite variants, each promising a unique flavor profile and an unforgettable sensory experience. Stir in a bit of nostalgia, a dash of romance, and a whole lot of love as we brew these delicious concoctions. 😌💖
1. Classic Masala Chai – A Timeless Elixir 🍵
Every Indian household has a secret recipe for the classic masala chai, a beverage that stands the test of time. A perfect blend of strong Assam tea with fragrant spices like ginger, cardamom, cloves, black pepper, and cinnamon, this brew creates a symphony of flavors that soothes the soul. Savor it with the monsoon delicacy – crispy pakoras or aloo samosas, and let this combination take you down memory lane, back to those rain-soaked childhood afternoons when the world was but a playground. ☺️
2. Tulsi Masala Chai – A Blend of Wellness and Tradition 🌿
Nothing compares to the comforting, earthy sweetness of tulsi (holy basil) blended into masala chai. The potent healing properties of tulsi, paired with traditional chai spices, create a healthful brew that not only tastes divine but also strengthens your immunity. Savor the invigorating Tulsi masala chai with a plate of spicy bhajiyas or simple buttered toast. Each sip is like a warm hug on a cold, rainy day, reminiscent of the warmth and comfort of your grandmother’s tales and lullabies. 😇🍃
3. Mint Masala Chai – A Symphony of Freshness 🍃
If you desire a burst of freshness in your chai, the mint masala chai is your perfect companion. The refreshing coolness of mint leaves, infused with the warmth of traditional chai spices, creates a sensory delight. Enjoy this revitalizing brew with a bowl of tangy bhel or spicy chana chaat. This minty concoction will whisk you back to those shared moments of laughter and stories, on rain-drenched balconies with old friends and loved ones. 😄🌿
4. Rose Masala Chai – A Romantic Rendezvous 🌹
Indulge in the sweet, ethereal romance of a rose masala chai, where the delicate fragrance of rose petals mingles perfectly with the robust flavors of masala chai. This delightful brew, paired with a plate of warm, flaky parathas or a serving of heartwarming sooji halwa, creates a heavenly ensemble. As the floral notes of the chai fill your senses, you’ll be transported back to the youthful days of innocent crushes and whispered sweet nothings under shared umbrellas. 🥰🌧️
5. Chocolate Masala Chai – A Decadent Delight 🍫
A surprise for the adventurous, the chocolate masala chai is a daringly delightful mix of cocoa powder or grated dark chocolate with our traditional chai spices. This slightly sweet, indulgent beverage, when paired with classic Indian biscuits like Parle-G or Marie, becomes a charming rainy-day indulgence. This tea is a celebratory tribute to those times when life’s little victories were celebrated with a clap of thunder and the applause of rain. 🎉💕
Each sip of these uniquely flavored chais tells a story, a tale of nostalgia and warmth. So, as the monsoon clouds gather, pick your favorite chai variant, curl up in your favorite nook, maybe call an old friend, or lose yourself in a gripping book. Let the raindrops tap a rhythm on your windowpane, and let the chai brew a symphony of emotions and memories within you. After all, chai is more than just a beverage; it’s a medium of connection, a vessel of shared moments, and a brew of heartwarming nostalgia. 🍵💞🌧️🌈
We would Love to Hear from You
As we reach the end of this flavorful journey through the monsoon-soaked lanes of our memory, it’s time for us to hear from you. We all have our unique versions and favorite recipes of masala chai, each brimming with stories and emotions. Whether it’s the classic masala chai that your mother makes or a special variant you discovered on a rainy afternoon, we would love to hear your chai tales. Which of these masala chai variants piqued your interest? How do you like your chai? What’s the secret ingredient that makes your chai special? 🤔💬
Please feel free to comment and share your favorite recipes and stories about your love affair with chai. Your unique narratives and secret recipes could be the heartwarming tale someone needs on a rainy day. Your shared memories could become a part of someone else’s monsoon ritual. After all, a cup of chai is much more than a drink; it’s a shared experience, a thread that weaves us all together in a tapestry of warmth, comfort, and nostalgia. 🍵💭💞
And if you’re as passionate about food and stories as we are, we invite you to join our Facebook group ‘Eatlo’ at https://www.facebook.com/groups/eatlo. Here, we share our love for food, recipes, stories, and so much more. It’s a place for food lovers, by food lovers. Come be a part of our vibrant community and enrich our food journey with your experiences and expertise. We look forward to welcoming you! 🤗💓
May your masala chai be strong, your monsoons be magical, and your memories be evergreen. Enjoy your brew and stay safe. Until next time! ☔☕🌈
Blog Tags: Masala Chai, Monsoon, Rainy Day, Nostalgia, Indian Tea, Tea Variants, Tea Recipes, Food Pairings, Indian Cuisine, Comfort Food, Memory Lane, Tradition, Indian Spices, Tea Lovers, Home Brew.
🌧️☔ Monsoons in India is a time of enchantment and culinary indulgence. As the rain showers the land, there’s a special craving for flavors that perfectly complement the weather. From savoring crispy pakoras to enjoying a steaming cup of masala chai, monsoon foods evoke a sense of comfort and delight. In this blog post, we invite you to embark on a flavorful journey as we explore 10 irresistible dishes that Indians crave during the rainy season.
Get ready to indulge in the magic of monsoons and satisfy your taste buds with these delightful treats! 😋🌧️
10. Crispy Corn Bhutta: A Classic Monsoon Snack to Savor! 🌽🌽
🌽🌽 There’s something incredibly satisfying about sinking your teeth into a roasted or boiled corn on the cob during the monsoons. Seasoned with a sprinkle of salt, chili powder, and a squeeze of tangy lime juice, the crispy corn bhutta offers a burst of flavors that perfectly complement the rain-kissed atmosphere. It’s a classic monsoon snack that never fails to evoke a sense of joy and nostalgia. So, grab a corn bhutta and let its flavors transport you to monsoon bliss! 😍🌧️
9. Garama Garam Pakodi Kadhi: A Soul-Soothing Combination! 🍲🌧️
🍲🌧️ What could be better than a warm bowl of kadhi, a yogurt-based curry, with garama garam (steaming hot) pakodis during the rainy season? The crispiness of the pakodis immersed in a tangy and spiced yogurt gravy creates a harmony of textures and flavors that is hard to resist. This delightful combination, when enjoyed with steamed rice or soft rotis, has the power to warm your soul and bring a smile to your face. Indulge in the comforting goodness of garama garam pakodi kadhi and let it envelop you in its monsoon magic! 🥣🌈
8. Jalebi: Sweet Spiral Treats for Rainy Day Cravings! 🌀🍥
🌀🍥 As the raindrops create a rhythmic melody outside, treat yourself to a plate of golden, syrupy jalebis. These pretzel-shaped sweets are made by deep-frying a fermented batter of all-purpose flour, which is then soaked in sugar syrup until it becomes irresistibly sweet and indulgent. Each bite of these crispy, syrupy treats takes you on a delightful journey of flavors and textures that leave you craving for more. So, surrender to your sweet tooth and relish the magic of jalebis during the monsoons! 😋✨
👥 Join Our Community 👥
If you’re a food lover like us, we invite you to join our Facebook group, Eatlo. It’s a community of passionate foodies where we share recipes, cooking tips, and more. We’d love to hear about your experiences with making Hoisin sauce or any other recipes you’ve tried. See you there!
🥔🥖 What could be more comforting on a rainy morning than a plate of piping hot aloo parathas? These flaky, stuffed breads are made by rolling out dough and filling it with a spiced mashed potato mixture. Cooked to perfection on a griddle with ghee or oil, they are best enjoyed with a dollop of butter, a side of tangy pickle, and a steaming cup of masala chai. Indulge in the warmth and richness of aloo parathas and let them kickstart your monsoon mornings with delight! 🌧️🌞
6. Aloo Tikki: Crispy Potato Patties for Monsoon Cravings! 🥔🍽️
🥔🍽️ Aloo Tikki, or potato patties, are a popular monsoon street food that will satisfy your cravings in an instant. These crispy delights are made by pan-frying mashed potatoes seasoned with spices like cumin, coriander, and red chili powder. The golden-brown crust gives way to a soft and flavorful interior, making each bite a burst of pure bliss. Enjoy aloo tikki with tangy tamarind chutney and mint chutney for an explosion of flavors that will leave you craving more! 😋🌧️
5. Masala Chai: Warm Hugs in a Cup on Rainy Evenings! ☕🌧️
☕🌧️ As the rain pours outside, wrap your hands around a steaming cup of masala chai and feel its warmth embrace you. This aromatic blend of black tea leaves, spices like ginger, cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves, combined with milk and sugar, creates a symphony of flavors that soothe your senses. Sip by sip, masala chai takes you on a journey of relaxation and comfort, making it the perfect companion for cozy evenings spent indoors during the monsoons. Let the magic of masala chai rejuvenate your soul and make the rainy season even more memorable! 😌🌈
4. Samosas: Crispy Triangular Parcels of Joy! 🥟🤩
🥟🤩 No monsoon food list is complete without the mention of the beloved samosas. These crispy, triangular parcels of joy are filled with a flavorful mixture of spiced potatoes, peas, and sometimes minced meat. Deep-fried to golden perfection, samosas offer a burst of flavors with every bite. Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack with friends or as a part of your evening tea time ritual, samosas are sure to bring smiles to faces and make rainy days all the more delightful. So, indulge in the goodness of samosas and let the happiness unfold! 😄🌧️
👥 Join Our Community 👥
If you’re a food lover like us, we invite you to join our Facebook group, Eatlo. It’s a community of passionate foodies where we share recipes, cooking tips, and more. We’d love to hear about your experiences with making Hoisin sauce or any other recipes you’ve tried. See you there!
3. Rasam: A Tangy Soup to Warm Your Soul! 🍲🔥
🍲🔥 Originating from South India, Rasam is a tangy and spicy soup made with tamarind, tomatoes, and a blend of aromatic spices like black pepper, cumin, and coriander. It is known for its comforting flavors and is often enjoyed with steamed rice or sipped as a soothing drink. The tanginess and spiciness of Rasam provide a perfect balance of flavors, making it a delightful monsoon food. So, indulge in a bowl of Rasam and let the warmth and tanginess of this soup nourish your body and soul on a rainy day! 😌🌧️
2.Vada Pav: A Mumbai Street Food Delight! 🍔🌶️
🍔🌶️ Originating from the bustling streets of Mumbai, Vada Pav is a monsoon favorite that satisfies cravings for a savory treat. This street food delight consists of a deep-fried potato fritter (vada) sandwiched between a soft pav (bread roll) and served with spicy chutneys. The combination of the flavorful vada, the pillowy pav, and the tangy chutneys creates a taste sensation that leaves you craving for more. Bite into a Vada Pav and experience the true essence of Mumbai’s monsoon street food culture! 😍🌧️
Instant Batata Vada Mix by Masala Monk.
1. Pakoras: Crispy Fritters to Sizzle Your Palate! 🌽🍚
🌽🍚 When the rain comes pouring down, it’s time to relish the sizzling goodness of pakoras. These deep-fried fritters are made by dipping a variety of ingredients like onions, potatoes, spinach, or paneer in a flavorful batter, resulting in a crispy and irresistible treat. The moment you take a bite, the crispy exterior gives way to a burst of flavors that tickle your taste buds. Paired with a cup of masala chai or tangy chutneys, pakoras are the perfect monsoon comfort food that will leave you craving for more. So, savor the crispy delight of pakoras and let your taste buds dance with joy! 😋🔥
👥 Join Our Community 👥
If you’re a food lover like us, we invite you to join our Facebook group, Eatlo. It’s a community of passionate foodies where we share recipes, cooking tips, and more. We’d love to hear about your experiences with making Hoisin sauce or any other recipes you’ve tried. See you there!
Conclusion
☔🌧️ Monsoons in India are a time of culinary indulgence, where flavorsome dishes add an extra touch of magic to the rainy season. From the crispy delights of pakoras and samosas to the comforting warmth of masala chai and rasam, these monsoon foods satisfy cravings and evoke a sense of comfort and joy. So, embrace the magic of the monsoons and savor these delightful treats that are an integral part of Indian culture. Let your taste buds revel in the flavors and your heart dance with the joy of monsoon feasting! 🍽️✨
