Tag: peanut butter

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5 Food Items That Are Surprisingly Vegan

Finding unique, flavorful vegan food items can be challenging. Thankfully, Masala Monk offers a range of innovative, vegan-friendly products that blend bold flavors with plant-based ingredients. Here are five standout vegan items that are not only delicious but also add variety to vegan diets.

1. Himalayan Jackfruit Pickle

Packed with Himalayan spices, this jackfruit-based pickle provides a savory, fibrous alternative that’s perfect for vegan meals. Jackfruit’s unique texture and its versatility as a meat substitute make it a fantastic addition to dishes, adding depth and richness without any animal-based ingredients.

2. Sweet and Sour Khajur (Date) Pickle

This date pickle delivers a delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors, enhanced by a blend of spices. It’s a great vegan condiment that pairs well with both savory dishes and snacks, bringing a natural sweetness that makes plant-based eating even more exciting.

3. Jamun Relish

Made from fresh jamuns, this relish is tangy and refreshing—a fantastic plant-based spread that can elevate any meal or snack. Its unique, seasonal flavor brings a touch of the exotic to vegan meals, perfect for those looking to try something new while keeping it 100% plant-based.

4. Imli Ka Amlana

This tamarind-based drink mix offers a refreshing and tangy vegan option. Made with tamarind pulp, pepper, mint, black salt, and cardamom, it’s a quick, easy drink that not only satisfies your taste buds but also supports digestion. It’s an ideal drink for hot days or as a zesty palate cleanser.

5. Instant Thandai Powder

Thandai, a classic Indian drink, is now vegan-friendly with Masala Monk’s Instant Thandai Powder. When mixed with plant-based milk, it delivers a creamy, festive flavor with notes of saffron, nuts, and spices. This traditional drink mix is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a festive, plant-based treat.

These delicious options from Masala Monk prove that veganism doesn’t have to mean compromising on taste. From tangy pickles to hearty spreads and refreshing drinks, these items are an excellent way to spice up a plant-based diet. Explore more of Masala Monk’s vegan-friendly offerings directly on their website!

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How to make the Best Peanut Butter at Home

I can’t stop making this peanut butter at home. If you have a high power blender, then this peanut butter can get ready in just a few minutes. 

I’ll show you how to make creamy or crunchy peanut butter, plus a variation which I love. The most time-consuming part of this easy recipe is roasting the peanuts, which takes about 10 minutes. Roasting helps peanuts to release oil and it brings out excellent flavor of peanuts.

Peanut butter is one of the healthiest sources of proteins. It has the right amount of amino acids for protein digestion. Just one tablespoon will give you 4 grams of good quality protein. One tbsp of it also contains about 8 grams of healthy fat. It is great for natural weight gain in adults and kids. In addition to protein, peanut butter is also packed with vitamins and minerals like vitamin B6, vitamin E, zinc and magnesium. If you are a fitness enthusiast then eating peanut butter daily can keep your body functioning at its best and provide you that necessary boost of vitamins and minerals.

But how healthy the peanut butter you have been buying from the market is? 

Pick up the label and check the ingredients. Most peanut butter ingredients would be roasted peanuts, sugar, hydrogenated vegetable oil which includes cheap quality processed cotton oil, palm oil and soybean oil and salt. So along with all that healthy peanuts, you are also having processed sugar and inflammatory bad oils. This is definitely not what you want to put in your system.

For making peanut butter at home the only equipment you will need is a blender. I have used a high power blender but a food processor is fine too.

Ways to use Peanut Butter

  • The easiest and the most delicious way to use it is, peanut butter toast with maybe bananas or strawberries on top.
  • You can make peanut butter cookies, muffins, add it to granola, smoothies, overnight oats or have it with fruits like apples.
  • You can make energy balls with peanut butter for healthy snacking.
  • You can also make Peanut Butter Dressing for salads. Check out this amazing Thai Peanut Butter Dressing recipe.

Recipe: makes 10 ounces

Ingredients 

  • 2 cups Raw Peanuts (with or without skin)

For Variation

  1. 1/4th tsp Pink Salt/Rock salt/Sea salt 
  2. 1 tbsp Raw Honey or Maple Syrup
  3. 1 tbsp unprocessed Coconut/Olive oil/Groundnut Oil

Instructions 

  • Spread raw peanuts on a baking tray and dry roast in a preheated oven at 180 C for ten minutes or till peanuts release slight oil. After 4 to 5 minutes, give a shake then roast again for another 4 to 5 minutes. 
  • You can also dry roast the peanuts on stove top as well till they are fragrant. Just make sure not to burn them. Keep stirring. 
  • Remove the skin. I retained skin of some. The skin of peanuts contains antioxidants.
  • Put the peanuts in a blender and blitz till peanuts crumble. Now if you like Chunky Peanut Butter, save few tbsps of crumbled peanuts and mix towards the end when the peanut butter is ready.
  • Blitz for another minute. It’ll start coming together.  Open and scrape from the sides now. Keep repeating this process till you see butter forming. Keep blitzing at this point if you want Creamy Peanut Butter till butter gets a flowing consistency. 
  • But if you want a variation then, once the butter starts forming, add salt, honey or maple syrup and oil. Now blend again till you get a smooth creamy peanut butter which will be slightly sweet and salty.
  • The whole process will roughly take you 5 minutes if using a high processor blender. If not then this should take you around 10 minutes.

Storing 

Transfer the peanut butter to a food-safe container or jar, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 or may be even 2 months if stored well. In winters, you can keep the peanut butter at a room temperature. If the peanut butter separates, use a spoon to stir it until it is well blended.

Caution: Peanut Butter is not recommended for kids below 1 year.

Stay Healthy! :)) Do let me know in the comments if you tried this recipe and if you want healthy recipes using peanut butter.

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Thai Style Vegan Bowl with Peanut Butter Dressing- 30 grams Protein

I love hassle free bowl meals which you can put together in no time. They are practical and an easy way to get your nutrients. This Vegan bowl is a beautiful combination of vibrant and colourful vegetables, nourishing whole grains, and plenty of plant-based protein accompanied by a delicious peanut dressing.

Many people consider animals as the main source of dietary protein, but plant-based protein consumption is rising in popularity. When it comes to your body’s daily function, it doesn’t matter where you get your protein from, animal or plants.

How does protein work?

Protein is crucial for our health. Every cell in our body is made up of protein. It is an important building block for body, hair, skin, hormone production, regulating metabolism, transporting nutrients and oxygen. Your body first breaks down protein into amino acids. It’s the amino acids that contribute towards proper lean mass that gives muscle fuel and gives power to your cells. There are 23 amino acids. 15 of them your body can make every single day. The balance 8 amino acids also called essential amino acids must come from food. 

Quantity of protein is only half the battle – it is the quality of the protein that matters. Whether your protein is coming from plant or animal, you must check the source of protein. It should be ethically procured. You can get all of the amino acids you need from either plants or meat. The main differentiating factor is what else is included in those foods besides the proteins for protein digestion. This will require a different post.

On the whole, eating a wide variety of foods — and especially whole, unprocessed foods — seems to achieve the healthiest balance.

Sharing with you a recipe that is balanced and can help you fulfil your protein, vitamins and minerals requirement in one bowl. 

Recipe: serves 1

Ingredients

For Herb Rice

  • 1 cup cooked Rice
  • 1 tsp Sesame oil or Olive oil
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • 2 cloves of chopped garlic
  • 1 tsp dried Thyme leaves

For Vegan Protein (Tofu and Beans)

  • 100 grams Silken or Firm Tofu (It’s a personal choice. I like Silken tofu better texture wise)
  • Salt & Pepper to taste 
  • 1 tbsp Olive oil
  • Red Chilli flakes to taste (optional)
  • 1 cup boiled or canned Red Beans

Vegetables

  • 1/2 cup Broccoli
  • 1/2 cup diced chunks of Zucchini 
  • 1/2 cup, sliced Button Mushroom 
  • 1/4th cup Frozen Sweet Corn Kernels
  • 1/4th cup cubed, Red Bell Pepper
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • Red pepper flakes to taste
  • 1 tbsp Olive oil

For Thai Peanut Butter Dressing

  • 1.5 tbsp Peanut Butter
  • 1/4th cup Orange Juice
  • 1 tsp Soy sauce or Tamari
  • 1 tsp Rice Vinegar or White Vinegar
  • 2 cloves minced Garlic
  • 1 tbsp Ginger juice
  • 1 tsp Lemon juice
  • 1 tsp Maple syrup or Honey
  • Salt to taste

Mix everything well in a bowl. Your dressing is ready. 

Optional Toppings

  • Sesame seeds
  • Lemon wedges
  • Mint or Cilantro leaves

Instructions

For Herb Rice

Heat oil in a pan. Cook garlic till light brown. Now add rice, thyme, salt and pepper. Gently stir till everything combines well. Cook for 2 minutes. Set aside. 

For Tofu and Red Beans

In the same pan, heat 1/2 tbsp olive oil. Add sliced thick pieces of tofu. Sprinkle some salt, pepper and chilli flakes. Sauté both sides till golden brown. While using tofu make sure you drain out all the water. If using silken tofu, handle it gently. It can break very easily. Set aside. 

For pan fried beans, add 1/2 tbsp Olive oil and boiled beans. Then add a little salt and pepper and fry the beans for 2-3 minutes. Set aside. 


For Vegetables

Steam broccoli, zucchini & sweet corn kernels for two minutes. Set aside. In a pan, heat oil. Add mushrooms, little salt and pepper & chilli flakes if using. Sauté till they release all their juices. Set aside. 

In the same pan, sauté broccoli, zucchini and red bell pepper on high flame for 1 or 2 minutes. Add a little salt, pepper and chilli flakes. Set aside.

Add sweet corn kernels, salt and pepper and sauté for 1 minute. Set aside. 

Now the fun part begins. Assembling

In a wide bowl. Add all the sautéed vegetables, herb rice, pan fried beans and top it all with tofu. Now drizzle the peanut dressing. Optionally, sprinkle with sesame seeds, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. We are adding salt at every step so, be mindful.

Enjoy good health 😊

Protein Content

  • 100 grams Tofu: 8 grams
  • 1 cup cooked red beans: 13 grams
  • 1.5 tbps peanut butter: 6 grams
  • 1 cup cooked rice: 4 grams

Total Protein: 31 grams

Substitutions

  • If not rice, you can go for other whole grains such as quinoa, millet, amaranth or barley
  • You can add your favourite vegetables like carrot ribbons, spinach, avocado, cucumber, spinach, kale, collard greens. Basically, whatever is seasonal and is easily available. You can grill them, steam them or oven bake them. For better digestion I personally prefer cooked vegetables. 
  • If not red beans, you can go for boiled or canned chickpeas, edamame or cannellini beans.

Sauce for Vegan Bowl: if you don’t like peanut butter sauce, you can opt for Tahini, Cilantro Lime Sauce, Vegan Mayo, Greek Yogurt. 

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Crunchy or Smooth: What Does Your Peanut Butter Choice Say About You?

A Spread Unlike Any Other

Peanut butter: a humble pantry staple that’s found its way into the hearts (and stomachs) of millions worldwide. But have you ever paused, mid-bite of your PB&J sandwich, to wonder how this nutty delight came to be? Let’s dig into the creamy, crunchy, and utterly fascinating history of peanut butter and discover its journey from ancient invention to the modern day marvel we can’t live without.

Ancient Beginnings to Patentable Paste

Before it graced our supermarket shelves, peanut butter’s origins traced back to ancient civilizations. The Incas, known for their innovative agricultural practices, were among the first to grind peanuts into a paste. However, it wasn’t until the 19th century that peanut butter as we know it began to take shape, thanks to Canadian pharmacist Marcellus Gilmore Edson, who patented a process for creating a peanut paste in 1884.

Kellogg’s Contribution and the Spread’s Evolution

John Harvey Kellogg, a name synonymous with breakfast cereals, saw potential in peanuts as a nutritious protein source. Along with his brother, Kellogg patented a process for making peanut butter, aiming to offer a healthy, meatless protein option. This marked the beginning of peanut butter’s journey from a health food for the elite to a beloved staple in American households.

A Cultural Staple and Culinary Chameleon

Peanut butter’s versatility is unmatched. It has crossed cultural boundaries and culinary categories, from the classic American PB&J to Thai peanut sauces and beyond. Its ability to morph from sweet to savory, from comfort food to gourmet ingredient, showcases its unique place in the culinary world.

The Nutritional Scoop: More Than Just Comfort Food

While peanut butter is often celebrated for its comforting taste, it’s also packed with nutrition. A source of protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, peanut butter can be a healthful addition to diets when chosen wisely (think natural, low in sugar and hydrogenated oils). Its rich nutrient profile supports everything from muscle repair to heart health, making it a powerhouse beyond its taste.

Modern Innovations and Ethical Considerations

Today’s peanut butter market is a testament to innovation, with varieties ranging from crunchy to smooth, flavored to natural. However, as we spread our peanut butter, it’s essential to consider ethical sourcing and environmental impact. Opting for brands that prioritize sustainable practices can make our peanut butter consumption more responsible and rewarding.

DIY Peanut Butter: A Recipe for the Brave

For the culinary adventurers, making peanut butter at home is a simple and satisfying endeavor. All you need are peanuts, a pinch of salt, and a food processor. Roast, blend, season, and voilà—you have a jar of fresh, homemade peanut butter, free from additives and full of love.

A Future as Rich as Its Flavor

As we look to the future, peanut butter’s potential seems as limitless as its creamy texture. Whether fueling the next generation of athletes, inspiring chefs, or satisfying late-night cravings, peanut butter will undoubtedly continue to evolve, adapt, and delight.

Let’s Spread the Love

So, the next time you dip your spoon into that jar of peanut butter, remember that you’re indulging in a product of centuries of innovation, a symbol of culinary versatility, and a testament to the simple pleasure of eating. Whether you’re a crunchy loyalist or a smooth aficionado, one thing’s for certain: peanut butter has cemented its place in our kitchens and our hearts.

FAQs on Crunchy or Smooth: What Does Your Peanut Butter Choice Say About You?

1. What’s the origin of peanut butter?

Peanut butter dates back to ancient times, with the Incas being one of the first to grind peanuts into a paste. The modern version began to take shape in the 19th century, thanks to innovations by Marcellus Gilmore Edson and later, John Harvey Kellogg.

2. Is peanut butter actually good for you?

Yes, when consumed in moderation and chosen wisely (opting for natural, low-sugar varieties), peanut butter is a nutritious option packed with protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals.

3. Crunchy or smooth: which is better?

It’s a matter of personal preference! Nutritionally, they’re quite similar, so whether you like the creamy texture of smooth or the satisfying bite of crunchy, you’re making a great choice either way.

4. Can I make peanut butter at home?

Absolutely! All you need are roasted peanuts, a bit of salt, and a food processor. Homemade peanut butter allows you to control the ingredients and customize it to your liking.

5. Why does peanut butter stick to the roof of your mouth?

The sticky texture of peanut butter, especially when thickly spread, can adhere to the moist surface of your mouth. It’s a unique characteristic that many find part of its charm!

6. What are some creative ways to use peanut butter?

Beyond sandwiches, peanut butter can be used in sauces, dressings, smoothies, baked goods, and even savory dishes like satay or soups for a nutty flavor boost.

7. Is peanut butter vegan?

Yes, peanut butter is inherently vegan, being made from peanuts. Just be sure to check labels for added ingredients if you’re adhering to a strict vegan diet.

8. How should I store peanut butter?

Natural peanut butter (without stabilizers) should be stored in the refrigerator after opening to prevent the oil from separating. Conventional peanut butter can be stored in a pantry.

9. Can dogs eat peanut butter?

In moderation, peanut butter can be a tasty treat for dogs. However, ensure it’s free from xylitol, a sweetener toxic to dogs. Always check the ingredients list to be safe.

10. What’s the deal with peanut allergies and peanut butter?

Peanut allergies are serious and can be life-threatening for those affected. Always be mindful of allergies when serving peanut butter to others and look for allergen-free alternatives if necessary.

Blog Tags

peanut butter, nutrition, homemade recipes, vegan snacks, peanut allergy, culinary uses, health benefits, DIY peanut butter, ancient foods, food history

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KISS THE COOKIE! Peanut Butter Blossoms by Manjula Vijh

Traditionally called as “Peanut Butter Blossoms”, these are soft, chewy peanut butter cookies, rolled in sugar and then topped with a Hershey’s Kiss Chocolate!

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It was during one lazy winter afternoon, while I was surfing the internet for some cookie recipes, that I came across these beauties. I had never worked with peanut butter as the main ingredient for cookies, but these looked so beautiful that I couldn’t resist giving them a try.

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The recipe for these lovely looking cookies was first developed in 1957, by Mrs. Freda F. Smith of Gibsonburg, Ohio for the Ninth Grand National Pillsbury Bake-off competition. It’s an American classic recipe and many versions of this recipe are available online. My recipe is inspired from the one given on Hershey’s website, but since I am a vegetarian, I have modified the recipe to be an eggless one. These are chewy from the center and crisp from outside, and since these are topped with Hershey’s Kisses, I have named these cookies as, “Kiss the Cookie!”

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When I first tried this recipe with one of my friends, I made them with store bought peanut butter. They came out nice but were little extra sweet. This time I tried them with the Natural Homemade Peanut Butter curated by Mr. Mohit Arora, which is available at Masala Monk. The peanut butter by Masala Monk has the right amount of salt and sugar unlike store bought peanut butter. The cookies came out to be perfect sweet and soft! They look lovely when presented and you can also gift them to your loved ones during festival time!

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KISS THE COOKIE

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cook time: 10 minutes

Serves:  40-45 cookies

Ingredients

  • Condensed Milk: 1 Can (400 gm.)
  • Peanut Butter: ¾ cup
  • All Purpose Flour: 1.5 cup
  • Baking Powder: 1tsp.
  • Butter(softened): ½ cup
  • Vanilla extract: 1tsp
  • Caster sugar for rolling the cookies: ½ cup
  • Hershey’s kisses: 40-45

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl whisk together, flour and baking powder.
  2. In another bowl cream together, butter, peanut butter and vanilla to mix them well.
  3. Add the flour and make a dough. If, you are mixing with hands, and the dough sticks to your hand you can sprinkle some flour, apply butter to your hands and then again mix. You can taste the cookie dough too!! I did and it tastes great!
  4. Chill the dough to set. Cling wrap it and then keep it in the refrigerator for few hours.
  5. Preheat the oven at 190ºC.
  6. Shape dough into 1″-1.5″ balls, roll it in finely granulated caster sugar, and keep them into a baking tray.
  7. Bake the cookies at 190ºC for about 10-11 minutes, till cracks appear on sides. Do not over bake them. These cookies will not get brown in color.
  8. Meanwhile unwrap Hershey’s Kisses.
  9. After the cookies are baked, take out the baking tray, and gently press one kiss on each cookie. The warm cookies will melt the chocolate a little, but it will set after a while.
  10. Transfer the cookie onto a wire rack for cooling
  11. Store it in an airtight container.

Notes:

** Please check your oven temperature for baking.

** You can use a small ice-cream scoop, or a melon ball scoop to take out equally sized dough balls. I used one of my measuring spoons.

** You can keep the cookie dough cling wrapped for 2-3 days.

** If you want to cut down the recipe to half, you can do so. It works fine! I suggest to start with half the recipe if you are baking them for the first time.

** Use softened butter and not melted butter. I made this mistake and result was flat cookies.

** Chill the cookie dough before baking.

** If the chocolate falls of the cookie, you can dab little peanut butter on the bottom of the chocolate and press it back.

References:

http://www.post-gazette.com/life/food/2012/09/06/Cookies-Tracking-the-tale-of-a-favorite-the-Peanut-Blossom/stories/201209060264

https://abountifulkitchen.com/peanut-butter-blossoms/

http://americanheritagecooking.com/2014/12/peanut-butter-blossoms/

https://www.hersheys.com/kitchens/en_us/recipes/chewy-peanut-butter-blossoms.html