tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-53599528048220342242024-03-28T17:17:09.768+05:30Tasty TreatsPoornima Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406513045514659836noreply@blogger.comBlogger217125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5359952804822034224.post-6587289986828867082014-05-31T08:54:00.000+05:302014-05-31T08:54:43.182+05:30Petit Pains Au Lait (Milk Breads) - We Knead to Bake # 17<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3819/14122780518_d7dfd1318e_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3819/14122780518_d7dfd1318e_o.jpg" width="642" /></a></div>
<br />
The bread for this month for the W<a href="http://www.mydiversekitchen.com/2007/10/we-knead-to-bake.html">e Knead to Bake group</a> chosen by Aparna is a simple but classic french bread. Petit pain au lait means little milk breads/ rolls. The rolls are mildly sweet and they bake to a beautiful golden brown. They are slightly rich and are soft and almost flaky on the inside because of the way they are shaped and rolled.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2909/14122912757_46cca3cae6_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2909/14122912757_46cca3cae6_o.jpg" width="639" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This is a wonderful and very easy recipe making it perfect for beginners. I stuffed about four rolls with some chocolate and left the others plain. All of us at home preferred the plain ones and I will surely be baking these again.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2921/14122769609_b6a27e66e8_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="800" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2921/14122769609_b6a27e66e8_o.jpg" width="641" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Do take a look at these videos to get an idea of how the bread is cut to create the pattern.<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pYJXPnVo4uU"> Link1</a>/ <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Q_VLU1IDfI">Link2</a>.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Recipe adapted from <a href="http://gourmetbykat.blogspot.in/2013/10/pain-au-lait-milk-bread.html">Gourmet by Kat</a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Petit Pains Au Lait</span></b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FUVbRFeyJlY/U4lKsj7mRQI/AAAAAAAAHOk/wgmnwUItGNo/s1600/Petit+Pains+au+Lait+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FUVbRFeyJlY/U4lKsj7mRQI/AAAAAAAAHOk/wgmnwUItGNo/s1600/Petit+Pains+au+Lait+(1).JPG" height="800" width="729" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Ingredients</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
2/3 cup warm whole milk (plus a few teaspoons more if needed)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 tsp instant yeast</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/4 cup sugar</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 2/3 cup all-purpose flour</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
3/4 cup bread flour*</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/4 tsp salt</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
60 gms butter, soft at room temperature</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
extra milk for brushing</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><u>Method</u>:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">*If you don’t have bread flour, put 2/3 tsp vital wheat gluten in your 3/4 cup measure and top up with all-purpose flour. Mix this well. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Or if you don’t have vital wheat gluten, then just use 3/4 cup all-purpose flour.</span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">**This topping is optional. The pearl sugar looks pretty and adds a little crunch. If you can’t find pearl sugar, use large crystals of sugar or even regular granulated sugar. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I used my stand mixer to knead the dough, you can also use the food processor or knead by hand. Put the warm milk, yeast and sugar in the bowl. Mix on low speed. Then add all the flour and the salt and mix until the mixture looks crumbly. Add the butter and knead until you have a soft, smooth and elastic dough that’s not sticky. Add a little more milk (in teaspoonful at a time), if your dough is dry, until you have the required consistency of dough.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Shape the dough into a ball and place it in an oiled bowl. Turn it over to coat with oil. Cover loosely and set aside to rise until double in volume, about 1 1/2 hours. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Turn the dough out onto a clean surface. The dough will be easy to work with and not sticky, but if needed, just lightly dust your palms with flour. Deflate the dough gently, and divide it into 10 equal pieces. Let them rest for 15 minutes.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Roll out each piece of dough, one at a time, into a circle of about 4” in diameter. Slowly roll up the circle from one end, Swiss roll/ jelly roll style into a cylinder. Pinch the seam closed neatly, and place them on a greased or parchment lined baking sheet with the seam side facing down. Cover loosely and let them rise for an hour or so till almost double in size.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Brush them lightly with milk and using a pair of sharp scissors, make diagonal cuts (not too deep) on the top of the rolls. Sprinkle pearl sugar/ granulated sugar. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Bake them at 200C / 400F for about 15 minutes or so until they’re golden brown. Cool on a wire rack and serve them warm or at room temperature.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">This recipe makes 10 Petit Pains au Lait. They’re best eaten the same day, though you could warm them up and serve the next day.</span></div>
</div>
</div>
Poornima Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406513045514659836noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5359952804822034224.post-1532569618289374872014-04-14T09:44:00.000+05:302014-04-14T09:44:21.352+05:30Melon Pan - We Knead to Bake # 15<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3824/13837477215_4e269c2e4f_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3824/13837477215_4e269c2e4f_c.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Melon Pan is a Japanese sweet bread. These soft spongy mildly sweetened buns have a crunchy cookie layer on the top and the two textures is what makes them really special and unique. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I love how attractive they look and they were just as delicious.<br />
The ingredient list and the method maybe long but the bread was really easy to make and it is totally worth the effort. And here's a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5z0e-GKJA10"><b>link</b> to a very helpful video</a> of how this bread is made.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Thanks to <a href="http://www.mydiversekitchen.com/">Aparna</a> for choosing this wonderful bread for the <a href="http://www.mydiversekitchen.com/2007/10/we-knead-to-bake.html">We Knead to Bake group</a>. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Melon Pan</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2839/13837505965_77ec939f89_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2839/13837505965_77ec939f89_c.jpg" width="639" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
For an eggless recipe just substitute the egg with 1 tbs yogurt or milk.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Ingredients</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
For the bread dough:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
2 tbs milk powder</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 tsp instant yeast</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/2 tsp salt</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/3 cup cold water</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 egg, beaten </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 tbs sugar</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
25 gms butter</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
For the cookie dough:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/3 cups all-purpose flour</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
3/4 tsp baking powder</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
a large pinch of salt</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
60 gms butter, at room temperature</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/4 cup castor sugar</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 large egg</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/2 tsp vanilla extract</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 tsp lemon zest</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
castor sugar/ granulated sugar for dusting</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Method</u>:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><b>Bread Dough</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Whisk together flour, powdered milk, yeast, and salt in the bowl of your stand mixer or in any large bowl. In another bowl, beat the egg and cold water together with a fork until well blended. Add this to the flour mixture in the bowl.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Using the dough hook, knead on low speed until it all comes together as a dough and then on medium speed until you have a somewhat stiff dough. Add the sugar and again knead well.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Now add the butter and knead (first at slow speed and then on medium) until the butter is completely incorporated into the dough and the dough becomes smooth and elastic. The dough should be well-kneaded to develop the gluten.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Shape the dough into a round, and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover and let it rise until doubled (about an hour or so).</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><strong>Cookie dough</strong></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract and beat till combined. Whisk together the flour, baking powder and salt and add this to the bowl. Also add the lemon zest. Beat together just until combined.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Shape the dough into a cylinder and wrap tightly in cling film. Refrigerate the dough until required.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><strong>Bread dough</strong></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Once the dough has doubled in volume, take it out onto a lightly floured work surface. Lightly grease your baking sheet or line it with parchment. Deflate the dough gently and divide it into 8 equal portions.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Shape each portion into a smooth ball. Work with one portion and keep the others covered so they don’t dry out.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Take the cold cookie dough and slice the cylinder into 8 equal portions. Use two pieces of plastic sheets or cling film to flatten the cookie dough. Place one slice/ round of cookie dough on a piece of plastic sheet/ cling film. Cover with another piece, and using a flat bottomed pan, press down on the dough to flatten it, until it is reasonably thin but not very much so.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Carefully take a ball of bread dough (it will have puffed up a little so don’t deflate it), and place the circle of cookie dough on top of it. Gently press the cookie dough edge to the bread dough ball so that it covers the top and sides of the ball, but leave the bottom open. Gently, holding the covered bread dough by the underside, press it into some sugar. T</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">hen using a the blunt side of a knife, mark the top of the cookie dough side of the bread roll with a diamond pattern. The pattern should be deep enough (otherwise it will disappear when the bread rises and bakes) without cutting through the cookie dough layer into the bread.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Place this on the greased or parchment lined baking sheet. Repeat this with the remaining cookie dough and bread dough balls. Let them rise for an hour.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Bake them at 180C (350F) for about 25 minutes, until the tops of the Melon Pan just start turning brown. Transfer to a wire rack to cool thoroughly.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Melon Pan are best eaten the day they are made.</span></div>
</div>
Poornima Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406513045514659836noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5359952804822034224.post-28427473382160279882014-03-27T13:32:00.000+05:302014-03-27T13:32:44.280+05:30The Birthday Cakes and a recipe for White Chocolate Swiss Meringue Buttercream<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-h2uakUDmUKA/UzPSY6zWSQI/AAAAAAAAHNY/zj1y35kBi60/s1600/4th+Birthday+(4).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-h2uakUDmUKA/UzPSY6zWSQI/AAAAAAAAHNY/zj1y35kBi60/s1600/4th+Birthday+(4).JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Anushka turned 4 last week and this birthday was extra special as it was the first one we celebrated in India. It was more of a family get-together and Anushka got to play with her favorite cousin and had a fabulous time. Growing up all my birthdays were celebrated this way and this evening brought back such wonderful memories.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This birthday was also very different from her last birthdays as I had so much help getting everything ready, having your parents with you is such a blessing, everything is taken care of. The last year with the <a href="http://poornimastastytreats.blogspot.in/2013/03/minnie-mouse-party.html">Minnie Mouse Party</a> there were so many things to be done and as much as I enjoyed planning and organizing everything I remember having panic attacks every few hours. This time though I felt like I had nothing to do. Dad and made sure the house was clean and organised and looked after Anushka when I was busy, mom took care of the food and all I had to do was bake the cake.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yJ6hnXYKbkg/UzPV6sBtgZI/AAAAAAAAHOE/-Fw_ehstx-k/s1600/4th+Birthday+(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yJ6hnXYKbkg/UzPV6sBtgZI/AAAAAAAAHOE/-Fw_ehstx-k/s1600/4th+Birthday+(3).JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The 4 year old "grown-up" gave me very clear instructions for her cake design. Up until two days before her birthday she wanted a blue cake with lots of flowers and butterflies and then suddenly changed her mind and wanted a pink one instead. I rolled the fondant and let her cut out the flowers and butterflies and she was so excited to see them on the cake.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Her day began with a small celebration at school. I sent a small cake with that she cut with her friends. As cream cakes are not allowed I made a simple chocolate cake with chocolate chips. I had planned to write a message with icing but ended up making a simple fondant topper instead.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0yYbcKdlzvE/UzPTJcG_OyI/AAAAAAAAHNw/tT0KVXL6L3U/s1600/4th+Birthday+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0yYbcKdlzvE/UzPTJcG_OyI/AAAAAAAAHNw/tT0KVXL6L3U/s1600/4th+Birthday+(1).JPG" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The main cake was two layers of chocolate cake and one middle layer of orange cake. I filled the cake with whipped chocolate ganache and frosted with White Chocolate Swiss Meringue Butercream (SMBC).</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It was the first time that I made SMBC with home-made butter and while it looked perfect somehow it wasn't sweet at all. I thought of adding some honey or corn syrup but just to be sure I asked the experts on HBG in facebook. Got some wonderful ideas and ended up adding some white chocolate to the buttercream. I'm not so found of white chocolate but in this case it worked like a charm and the flavor was just delicious! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">White Chocolate Swiss Meringue Buttercream</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wD-6mrgA5cg/UzPTYlbSIwI/AAAAAAAAHN4/HKhN1SZUhvY/s1600/4th+Birthday+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wD-6mrgA5cg/UzPTYlbSIwI/AAAAAAAAHN4/HKhN1SZUhvY/s1600/4th+Birthday+(2).JPG" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Ingredients</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
3 egg whites</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
3/4 cup sugar</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
18 tbs unsalted butter, softened but cool, cut into tablesspoons</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 tsp vanilla extract</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
3 ounces white chocolate, melted and cooled to room temperature</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Method</u>:</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">
<div style="color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;">
Make sure your bowl, whisk and all other tools you use to make the meringue are completely free of any grease.<br />
Take the egg whites and sugar in a big metal bowl and place the bowl over a pot of simmering water. Whisk gently but constantly until the mixture reaches a temperature of 140 degrees F on a candy thermometer, or until the egg whites are hot and you cannot feel the sugar granules when you rub the mixture between your fingers. </div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;">
Remove from heat and whip the hot mixture, until it turns thick and glossy and white and and about doubles in volume. The bowl will be neutral and not hot at this point.</div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;">
Switch to the paddle attachment and add the butter, 2 tablespoons at a time, beating continuously on medium speed until it has a silky smooth texture. The mixture may look curdled at some time, but just keep mixing and it will come together soon!<br />
Mix in the vanilla and the melted white chocolate and whip till smooth and creamy.<br />
Use immidiately or refrigerate in an air-tight container for upto 1 week and whip until creamy before using.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
Poornima Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406513045514659836noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5359952804822034224.post-3535864090464544752014-02-14T01:41:00.000+05:302014-02-14T01:41:06.329+05:3050 Second Eggless Chocolate Mug Cake<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5503/12505008405_6b7ab4c02a_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5503/12505008405_6b7ab4c02a_o.jpg" height="841" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Happy Valentine's Day to all! For the last several years I've have always baked a chocolate cake for this day, but this year with Manoj being out of town, the cake plans have been postponed to another day. But again it is impossible to ignore all the chocolate treats that I have been seeing everywhere and what's better at such times than this super easy chocolate mug cake. I have made this so many times, it is just the thing to satisfy all those sudden, irrational and odd time cravings for chocolate cake.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3829/12505508594_2100a8ec93_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3829/12505508594_2100a8ec93_c.jpg" height="800" width="663" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
If you are looking for an easy last minute dessert to round up your valentine's day meal or for any other time then this could be it. The cake is moist, chocolaty and uses just basic simple ingredients. You can make it extra special by serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or ice-cream or drizzling or even pouring as much chocolate sauce as you like. Some ganache would be great too.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>The only thing to take care is to not overcook the cake. In the microwave a few seconds here or there could make a big difference. 48-50 seconds is what it takes in my microwave works perfectly in mine, make sure to check.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Eggless Chocolate Mug Cake</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5488/12505515354_7215a859cf_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5488/12505515354_7215a859cf_c.jpg" height="861" width="640" /></a></div>
<u><br /></u></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Ingredients</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
3 tbs all purpose flour/ maida</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 tbs cocoa</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 1/2 tbs castor sugar/ super fine sugar</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/4 tsp instant coffee powder</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/8 tsp baking soda</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 tbs finely chopped nuts (I used walnuts)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
2 tbs chopped dark chocolate</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 1/2 tbs water</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 1/2 tbs oil</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/2 tsp vinegar</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 tsp vanilla</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Method</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Whisk together flour, cocoa, sugar, coffee powder, baking soda. Add the chopped nuts and chocolate and mix. In another bowl whisk the water, oil, vinegar and vanilla until combined. Pour the wet mixture over the flour and whisk gently just until combined. Spoon the mixture into a microwave safe mug and microwave for 50 seconds. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Cool for a few seconds and enjoy!</div>
Poornima Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406513045514659836noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5359952804822034224.post-32547836071799010892014-02-01T06:58:00.002+05:302014-02-01T06:58:58.072+05:30My Favorite Banana Chocolate Chip Walnut Bread<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2856/12233482265_0a044a6819_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2856/12233482265_0a044a6819_o.jpg" height="835" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I can never eat an overripe banana, even a small black spot or mushy texture is a big no-no. So all such bananas are usually used up in shakes and I also love them caramelized.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7345/12234048076_86e268ca53_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7345/12234048076_86e268ca53_o.jpg" height="797" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
But such overripe bananas are of course best suited for baking and I love banana bread especially when it is loaded with chocolate and nuts.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3736/12234047566_55f5e99b93_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3736/12234047566_55f5e99b93_o.jpg" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I have tried a lot of recipes in search for the perfect one and this is my favorite, the best one so far! I first baked this bread last October and its the fourth time that I've baked it again. It's just what I have been looking for and everyone who has had it has loved it! The banana flavor is prominent without being over-powering, it's super moist and it has a ton of chocolate and nuts making every bite absolutely heavenly!<br />
<i>Recipe from <a href="http://food52.com/recipes/4243-classic-banana-bread">Food52</a>.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Banana Chocolate Chip Walnut Bread</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5474/12233641873_014a2bf169_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5474/12233641873_014a2bf169_o.jpg" height="803" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Ingredients</u>: </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
3 medium overripe bananas</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 cup light brown sugar (packed)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
10 tbs unsalted butter, at room temperature</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
2 eggs</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/2 tsp vanilla extract</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
2 cups all purpose flour</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 tsp baking soda</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 tsp baking powder</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/4 tsp salt</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 cup chopped walnuts</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Method</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Grease and line a 9"x5" loaf pan. Preheat oven to 180C/ 350F.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Beat bananas with an electric mixer until smooth. Add the brown sugar, butter, eggs and vanilla and mix until well incorporated.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt. Add to the banana mixture and mix just until combined. Gently stir in the chocolate chips and walnuts.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The top of the cake browns rather quickly, so I tented it with foil after about 25 minutes and then baked until it was done.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Let it cool completely before slicing. To get neat slices use a serrated knife and cut using a sawing motion.</div>
Poornima Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406513045514659836noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5359952804822034224.post-82684609718294996312014-01-24T09:07:00.001+05:302014-01-24T15:39:32.107+05:30Focaccia Caprese - We Knead to Bake # 13<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7311/12110204986_b34c30fd8f_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7311/12110204986_b34c30fd8f_o.jpg" height="799" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Though I do not have a lot of bread recipes on the blog, I do bake them often and rather enjoy the whole process. 'We knead to Bake' is a group started by <a href="http://www.mydiversekitchen.com/">Aparna</a> last January and I've been following all the breads that they have baked through the year. I'm super excited about being a part of the group and this is the first bread of the year.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3706/12109564035_efb1dd9dbf_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3706/12109564035_efb1dd9dbf_o.jpg" height="802" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
I was really happy to see the bread we would be baking, first of all focaccia is a wonderful bread and secondly this one had all my favorite things on it. I wanted to bake the bread the day it was announced, but it took me a while to find really good mozzarella and fresh basil. And for the first time I did not cut down on the oil, rather used it quite generously and it made such a difference.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3737/12109873833_1b933c4c1a_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3737/12109873833_1b933c4c1a_o.jpg" height="799" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This time I used a shortcut and used my Kitchen Aid to knead the dough. I can't believe I never did that before. Making bread has never been easier! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The bread baked beautifully and it was fabulous fresh out of the oven. It was soft and spongy and the cheese all melted and gooey and the flavors were just amazing.<br />
Recipe has been adapted by <a href="http://www.mydiversekitchen.com/2014/01/we-knead-to-bake-13-focaccia-caprese.html">Aparna of My Diverse Kitchen</a> from <a href="http://www.thekitchenwhisperer.net/2012/07/15/tomato-caprese-focaccia-pizza/">The Kitchen Whisperer</a>.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Focaccia Caprese</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5474/12109559925_dcbae22245_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5474/12109559925_dcbae22245_o.jpg" height="800" width="640" /></a></div>
<u><br /></u>
<u>Ingredients</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u style="font-style: italic;">For the dough</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
2 tsp instant yeast</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 1/2 tbs sugar</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
3 1/2 cups bread flour/ all purpose flour</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
(I used all purpose flour and added 1 tbs vital wheat gluten to it)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 tsp salt</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/4 cup oil (preferably olive oil)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1-1 1/2 cups warm water</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A little more olive oil for brushing the dough</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u><i>For the topping</i></u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
4-5 tomatoes, sliced thin</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 6-7" round piece of fresh mozzarella, cut into thin slices</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, cut into thin strips</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u><i>For the herbed oil</i></u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/4 cup olive oil</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 tsp dried oregano</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 tsp dried basil</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/4-1/2 tsp red chili flakes</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/2 tsp finely minced garlic/paste</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
salt to taste</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Basil leaves for garnishing</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Method</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Herbed Oil</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Put all the ingredients in a bowl and whisk them together. Keep aside.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Dough</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Take the flour, sugar, yeast, salt and oil in a bowl and mix to combine. Add 1 cup of warm water and mix with your fingers to form a dough. Add more water if needed. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead until you have a soft elastic dough, that us just short of sticky. Shape into a round and place in a well oiled bowl turning the dough around so it is coated. Cover and let it rise till almost double in volume. This should take about an hour.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
**I kneaded my dough in my KA mixer using the dough hook. I set it at speed 4 and mixed for about 8 minutes until I had a smooth dough. You can also use a food processor.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
After the dough has risen, divide it into two equal portions. Place the dough into a greased pan and press and spread the dough with your fingers until they are approximately 11” by 7” in size. The shape does not really matter as the focaccia is a rustic bread, but try to get it evenly thick. Cover and let rise for about 20 minutes.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Generously brush the surface of the bread with olive oil and use your fingers to create evenly spaced 'dimples' all over the surface of the dough.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Bake at 210C (410F) for about 18 to 20 minutes till it is almost done and is beginning to turn golden brown. Take the Focaccia out and turn up the heat of your oven to 230C (450F).</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Lightly drizzle some of the Herbed Oil over the Focaccia and then evenly arrange some slices of mozzarella all over the bread, leaving very little space between them. Top the cheese with the tomato slices and sprinkle the chopped basil over this. The topping should cover most of the surface of the bread.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Drizzle some more Herbed Oil over the topping and return the bread to the oven. Bake the Focaccia for 5 to 8 minutes or until the cheese has just melted. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Cut the Focaccia into slices and serve while it is still hot. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This recipe serves 4 if served alone or 6 if served with a side.<br />
<br />
This bread is being <a href="http://www.wildyeastblog.com/category/yeastspotting/">yeastspotted</a>!</div>
Poornima Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406513045514659836noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5359952804822034224.post-67021576715027203132013-12-28T09:10:00.000+05:302013-12-28T09:10:56.404+05:30Flourless Chocolate Rum Cake <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3695/11595573205_4c82b56ce5_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="797" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3695/11595573205_4c82b56ce5_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Hope you all had a very Merry Christmas and are eagerly looking forward to welcoming the new year. For the first time in years I did not bake a fruitcake this time. I just wanted something different. And when I saw the recipe for this cake, I new it would be the perfect treat.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7299/11595887754_64276ec14e_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7299/11595887754_64276ec14e_o.jpg" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This is one of those amazing, hassle free, one bowl desserts that can be put together in a few minutes and tastes absolutely heavenly. It is amazingly decadent, rich and intensely chocolaty and the rum in the cake takes it to a whole other level.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5502/11595573165_2aea8162eb_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="814" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5502/11595573165_2aea8162eb_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
The original recipe has a fudge icing with rum in it. I topped the cake with ganache and skipped adding any rum to it, as I knew Anushka would want to lick the ganache bowl clean:). Moreover as much as I love the flavor of alcohol in desserts, even a little too much makes me tired and sleepy. But if you can take it, I'd say got for it.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
To make it alcohol free, simple substitute the rum with some coffee. I can only imagine how good that would be!!<br />
<i>Recipe from <a href="http://www.pastryaffair.com/blog/2012/2/10/flourless-chocolate-rum-cake.html">Pastry Affair</a>.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Flourless Chocolate Rum Cake</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3772/11595573495_8a3643af09_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3772/11595573495_8a3643af09_o.jpg" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Ingredients</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
6 ounces semi sweet chocolate, chopped</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/2 cup butter</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/2 cup sugar</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
4 large eggs</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/2 cup cocoa powder, sifted</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/3 cup rum</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Method</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Grease and line an 8" round pan. Preheat oven to 190 C/ 375F.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Melt the chocolate and butter over a double boiler, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and mix in the sugar. Make sure the mixture is only slightly warm and whisk in the eggs one at a time, mixing well until smooth after each addition.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Stir in the vanilla extract, cocoa powder and rum and mix until smooth. Pour into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a skewer comes out with a few moist crumbs. Take care to not over bake the cake.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Cool in the pan for 5 minutes and invert onto a platter. Cool completely and top with the ganache.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Ganache</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7347/11595776523_5799fb9c80_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="764" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7347/11595776523_5799fb9c80_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Ingredients</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/2 cup cream</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
4 ounce dark chocolate, chopped</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 tbs rum (optional)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Method</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Heat the cream just until you see bubbles around the edges. Pour over the chocolate and let it stand for about 1 minute.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Stir until smooth. Stir in the rum if using and once cool spread over the cake.</div>
Poornima Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406513045514659836noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5359952804822034224.post-46875613106531488192013-12-21T07:10:00.000+05:302013-12-21T07:10:02.451+05:30Melt 'n' Mix Custard Shortbread<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gAjA29qveEQ/UrTwlmaV7JI/AAAAAAAAHMQ/6Kb5zQpQCL0/s1600/Custard+Shortbread+(1)+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gAjA29qveEQ/UrTwlmaV7JI/AAAAAAAAHMQ/6Kb5zQpQCL0/s1600/Custard+Shortbread+(1)+-+Copy.JPG" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I usually shy away from recipes calling for a lot of butter, but then it is the season for sharing and gifting so why not! These shortbread cookies are an indulgence...soft, buttery, melt-in-your mouth and just lightly sweetened. I also love the flavor of custard powder and the light yellow color it adds to the cookies.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>Recipe from <a href="http://melangerbaking.com/2011/11/23/melt-n-mix-custard-shortbread/">here</a>, adapted from The Australian Women's Weekly.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Custard Shortbread</b></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rdlXK5VQMBI/UrTwl4QLLFI/AAAAAAAAHMU/EV32Ja9tga8/s1600/Custard+Shortbread+(2)+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rdlXK5VQMBI/UrTwl4QLLFI/AAAAAAAAHMU/EV32Ja9tga8/s1600/Custard+Shortbread+(2)+-+Copy.JPG" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Ingredients</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
250gms unsalted butter</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
35gms icing/ confectioners' sugar</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
55gms castor sugar</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
40gms custard powder</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
360gms all purpose flour</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
pinch of salt</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
sugar for sprinkling</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Method</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Line and grease a 7"x11" pan. Preheat the oven to 180 C/ 350 F.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Melt the butter over low heat and keep aside to cool slightly.Sift the icing sugar and custard powder into a bowl and mix in the sugar.Add the melted butter and beat mixture until thick and creamy. Add sifted flour and salt and mix gently until combined.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Press the mixture into the prepared pan evenly and level the surface. Mark the dough into fingers and prick each finger decoratively with a fork and sprinkle some sugar on top if desired.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Bake for 25-30 minutes until lightly golden. Cut into fingers while still warm and cool in the pan.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
If you like your cookies to be crispier, just bake for another 15 minutes or so.</div>
<br />Poornima Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406513045514659836noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5359952804822034224.post-22297390196669728512013-12-11T23:46:00.000+05:302013-12-11T23:46:55.597+05:30Chocolate Crinkle Cookies...Holiday Baking<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7337/11273169423_b6e2f1d2d7_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7337/11273169423_b6e2f1d2d7_o.jpg" width="611" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Anushka started school last week and that leaves me with a couple of hours each day to do all those things that are otherwise impossible with an hyperactive kid at home. My to-do list just keeps getting longer and now maybe I could catch up with some of them.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3740/11273096546_57cd7df789_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3740/11273096546_57cd7df789_c.jpg" width="641" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I am also looking forward to bake some more. Now that Christmas is just around the corner, I have the perfect excuse to try some cookie recipes that I've had bookmarked forever. Moreover Anushka is turning out be quite the cookie lover and that's gotten me really excited.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I have made these cookies before and they are an absolute treat. Not only are they pretty to look at, they taste heavenly too. Bake them right and they are amazingly fudgy and chocolaty, like the perfect brownie. What I love about this recipe is that there is no butter involved and the ingredients have to be just mixed quickly in one bowl and the dough tastes amazing too.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7291/11273092544_3b02f3a6ac_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7291/11273092544_3b02f3a6ac_c.jpg" width="624" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7335/11273169983_bbe4a106a4_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7335/11273169983_bbe4a106a4_c.jpg" width="620" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The one change I made was to use substitute some of the bittersweet chocolate with unsweetened chocolate as I remember finding them a little too sweet for my tastes. With this change though they were just right. Recipe from <a href="http://annmariekostyk.com/2010/09/26/swiss-chocolate-pioneers-part-daniel-peter-heinrich-nestle-chocolate-crinkle-cookies/">here</a>.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Chocolate Crinkle Cookies</b></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3831/11273066396_d341b45ba5_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3831/11273066396_d341b45ba5_c.jpg" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Ingredients</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 cup bittersweet chocolate, chopped (I used 1/3 cup unsweetened chocolate)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 cup brown sugar, packed</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/3 cup oil</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
2 eggs</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 tsp vanilla extract</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 cup flour</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 tsp baking powder</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/4 tsp salt</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/2 cup walnuts, chopped (optional, but highly recommended</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/2 cup powdered sugar</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Method</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Melt the chocolate over a double boiler. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Add the sugar and oil and mix well.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Make sure that the mixture is almost at room temperature and add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after after each addition.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Add the vanilla.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Combine flour, baking powder and salt. Add to the chocolate mixture. Stir in nuts.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Cover and chill the dough for two hours or until firm enough to roll.Preheat the oven to 175C /350F.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Form into 1" balls and roll in the powdered sugar until completely coated. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Place in a parchment covered cookie sheet about an inch apart and bake for 8-10 minutes.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Cool on wire racks. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>I baked my cookies for 8 minutes, they will be soft when you get them out of the oven, but wait for a few seconds and they will be firm enough to transfer them to the rack and will get firmer when completely cool.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>Please, do not overbake the cookies. They look the best on the day they are baked, but they taste just as great for a couple of days more.</i></div>
Poornima Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406513045514659836noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5359952804822034224.post-18033651947251735002013-10-31T07:31:00.000+05:302013-10-31T07:31:18.529+05:30Maharashtrian Chakli....Spiced Murukku<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3766/10584265283_d55f4afb22_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="641" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3766/10584265283_d55f4afb22_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Murukku was one of the first snacks mom would make for Diwali. It was and still is everyone's favorite. She would make a lot and after saving some to be shared with neighbors on the actual day, the rest was always kept within our reach and we would always have one in our hands as we played and enjoyed our Diwali holidays. No matter how much she made it would all be gone in a few days.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I have always made the <a href="http://poornimastastytreats.blogspot.in/2009/09/icc-september-murukku.html">traditional salted one (recipe here)</a>, so this time for a change I made the more spiced mixed flour maharashtrian version. The recipe is from an old Femina Cookbook, that I had saved from years ago. The chaklis turned out great, they were easy to shape and I loved the spice and the flavor of gram flour.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Maharashtrian Chakli</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u><br /></u></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3783/10584337663_5cb343e930_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="859" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3783/10584337663_5cb343e930_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<u><br /></u></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Ingredients</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
2 cups (400 gms) rice</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 cup (200 gms) urad dal</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 cup (200 gms) chana dal</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
2 tbs (30 gms) moong dal</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
45 ml oil for mixing the dough</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 tbs (15 gms) ajwain</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 tbs red chili powder (adjust to taste)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 tbs (15 gms) sesame seeds</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/4 tsp turmeric powder</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
salt to taste</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
oil for frying</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Method</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Roast the rice, urad dal, chana dal and moong dal separately until crisp. Grind together to a fine flour.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Stir in the ajwain, sesame seeds, chili powder, turmeric powder and salt. Add the oil and mix well, then add enough water to form a smooth but firm dough.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Fill the chakli mould with some dough and press out chakli's on paper. Fry them in hot oil on medium heat until golden and crisp. Drain on paper towels and when completely cool store in air-tight containers.</div>
<br />Poornima Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406513045514659836noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5359952804822034224.post-51264750745958640762013-10-25T02:04:00.002+05:302013-10-25T02:13:33.243+05:30Easy Mava Peda<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3800/10463827524_8f7e527e57_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="826" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3800/10463827524_8f7e527e57_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Diwali is just around the corner and this year it's extra special. I am at home for Diwali after seven years and am really looking forward to all the celebrations. It is going to be Anushka's first Diwali in India and I want her to experience everything we did as kids.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I am going to take her shopping for lamps and lanterns this weekend and she is so looking forward to all the fireworks. I promised to get her sparklers and I was surprised as to how well she remembers them from last year.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
What I look forward to the most are the many varieties of homemade snacks and sweets to munch on throughout the day. Amma and I plan to make all our favorites like <a href="http://poornimastastytreats.blogspot.in/2012/11/mawa-rava-coconut-laddoo.html">Rava Laddoo</a>, <a href="http://poornimastastytreats.blogspot.in/2009/10/diwali-treats.html">Besan Laddoo</a>, <a href="http://poornimastastytreats.blogspot.in/2009/10/diwali-treats.html">Ribbon Pakoda</a> and <a href="http://poornimastastytreats.blogspot.com/2009/01/murukku.html">Murrukku</a> next week. While going through my old recipe books I found this page that I had torn out of an old Femina magazine with a recipe for a Burfi. The instructions seemed a little weird, so I used the ingredients and came up with this peda instead.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I love milk based sweets and these mildly sweetened, cardamom spiced pedas were just perfect. Nothing makes me happier now than Anushka asking for seconds and this time she did, again and again.<br />
<br />
Here are some more popular Diwali Sweets and Snacks...<br />
<a href="http://poornimastastytreats.blogspot.in/2009/06/rava-laddoo-indian-cooking-challenge.html"><b>Rava Laddoo</b></a><br />
<a href="http://poornimastastytreats.blogspot.in/2012/11/mawa-rava-coconut-laddoo.html"><b>Mawa Rava Coconut Laddoo</b></a><br />
<a href="http://poornimastastytreats.blogspot.in/2009/10/diwali-treats.html"><b>Besan Laddoo</b></a><br />
<a href="http://poornimastastytreats.blogspot.in/2009/10/diwali-treats.html"><b>Kaju Katli/ Cashewnut Fudge</b></a><br />
<a href="http://poornimastastytreats.blogspot.in/2009/10/diwali-treats.html"><b>Shankarpali</b></a><br />
<a href="http://poornimastastytreats.blogspot.in/2009/10/diwali-treats.html"><b>Ribbon Pakoda</b></a><br />
<a href="http://poornimastastytreats.blogspot.in/2009/09/icc-september-murukku.html"><b>Murrukku</b></a><br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Easy Mava Peda</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3671/10463863215_17b5610f78_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3671/10463863215_17b5610f78_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Ingredients</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
150 gms fresh paneer, rinsed well and drained (made from 1lt full cream milk)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
100 gms fresh mawa (made from 500mls full cream milk</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/4 tsp cardamom powder</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
5 tbs sugar</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
a little ghee</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
finely chopped nuts for garnish (I used pistachios)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Method</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Knead the paneer for a minutes until soft. Add the sugar and cardamom powder and knead for a couple of minutes until well combined.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Transfer the mixture into a heavy bottom pan and cook on low heat for a few minutes until the sugar dissolves and the raw smell of paneer is gone. Stir in the mava until well combined. Cook on low heat stirring continuously for a few minutes until the mixture comes together. Ensure that the mixture does not burn or become dry.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
When still warm, grease your hands with a little ghee. Take small portions and shape as desired. Garnish with chopped nuts.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Store in an air-tight box in the fridge for upto 4 days. It tastes best when kept out for about 15 minutes before eating.</div>
Poornima Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406513045514659836noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5359952804822034224.post-30184112470528330592013-10-07T15:50:00.000+05:302013-10-08T17:07:05.189+05:30Healthy Cardamom Tea Cake<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3744/10132627765_0cc7663863_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3744/10132627765_0cc7663863_o.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It has been a month since we moved back to India. There are hundreds of things I will miss about our life back in the US, but it's wonderful to be home and meet up with family and friends. Most of all I love to see Anushka playing with and getting pampered by her grandparents. We are undecided as to where we will be settling and I've been shuttling between by in-laws and parents homes and living out of suitcases and it still feels like a vacation.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
As far as blogging goes though, I'm in a rut and it took a lot of self-motivation to write up this post. I miss my boards and all the props that I had to leave behind and of course the huge oven in our apartment. Although I haven't cooked anything new in a while I have been baking quiet a lot and am finally getting used to the old O.T.G at my mom's place.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7440/10132701816_7f071092e6_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7440/10132701816_7f071092e6_o.jpg" width="637" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This cake, adapted from <a href="http://www.cookrepublic.com/recipe-archive/healthy-cardamom-teacake/">Cook Republic</a> is the first one I baked since coming here. I love the simple ingredients and the one bowl mixing method. The batter was ready in no time and while the cake bakes, the house smells heavenly because of the cardamom. It was impossible to wait until the cake cooled and we sliced it minutes after it was out of the oven. It had just the right amount of sweetness, great texture and amazing flavor, we loved it.</div>
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Healthy Cardamom Teacake</span></b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5530/10132627125_42d8d22755_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5530/10132627125_42d8d22755_o.jpg" width="605" /></a></div>
<br />
<u>Ingredients</u>:<br />
1 1/2 cups self-raising flour<br />
1/2 whole wheat flour<br />
1 1/2 tsp cardamom powder<br />
1/4 tsp cinnamon powder<br />
a pinch of salt<br />
1 cup castor sugar<br />
3 eggs, well beaten<br />
1 cup rice bran oil<br />
1/2 cup milk<br />
icing sugar, for dusting (optional)<br />
<br />
<u>Method</u>:<br />
Preheat oven to 350F / 180C. Liberally grease an 8" round pan and dust with flour.<br />
Sift together flours, cardamom, cinnamom and salt.<br />
Stir in sugar. Whisk together the eggs, oil and milk until combined. Spoon mixture into prepared pan.<br />
Bake for 40-50 minutes until golden and cooked through.<br />
Turn out onto a wire rack to cool, dust with icing sugar, if using and serve.Poornima Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406513045514659836noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5359952804822034224.post-7327569772762381352013-08-03T07:21:00.000+05:302013-08-03T07:21:11.222+05:30Cold-Oven Cream Cheese Pound Cake<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7397/9423976687_e440949b30_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7397/9423976687_e440949b30_c.jpg" width="570" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="text-align: justify;">We were cutting a melon for our snack last evening, while craving for a good slice of cake instead and we got around reminiscing about those days when we wouldn't give a damn about what we ate. We were in Hyderabad for a year after we got married, it was a new place with not many friends. Once Manoj left for work my brand new oven was the best company I had on most days. I baked cakes or muffins every other day and while I loved sharing my bakes with my new neighbors, there were those rare occasions when I would finish an entire cake all by myself and then I would bake one more before Manoj got home. We always had cake at home and we never gave a thought to all the sugar, flour and butter we were having daily.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2865/9426746206_8c31ba159b_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2865/9426746206_8c31ba159b_c.jpg" width="596" /></a></div>
<br />
Ofcourse now its all I can think about as the side effects are a little too clearly visible around our waistlines. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I eagerly wait for an opportunity to bake now, friends coming over or a party at Anushka's school or at work. I had baked this particular cake for a snack party at Anushka's school a while back and it was heavenly. The cream cheese imparts an amazing velvety texture to the cake and a little tanginess that's just perfect.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It's from one of my favorite books, Cake Keeper Cakes by Lauren Chattman. I googled the recipe before I tried it and it was a good thing too because I found a lot of reviews that suggested reducing the sugar. I reduced it considerably and it was still sweet, but just the right amount.<br />
<u>Note</u>:<br />
I divided the cake batter among two loaf pans and there was not enough and thats the reason it baked flat. Its best to use a bundt pan, it rises beautifully and looks great.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Cold - Oven Cream Cheese Pound Cake</span></b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7299/9426746292_a453dc4857_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7299/9426746292_a453dc4857_c.jpg" width="591" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Ingredients</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
3 cups cake flour</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 1/2 tsp baking powder</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 tsp salt</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
8 oz cream cheese, softened</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 1/2 cups sugar (original recipe calls for 2 1/2 cups)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
6 eggs (room temperature)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 tbs pure vanilla extract</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 1/2 tbs grated fresh ginger</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 tbs grated lemon zest<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5479/9423976661_3ecc4397fc_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5479/9423976661_3ecc4397fc_c.jpg" width="585" /></a></div>
<br />
<u>Method</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Adjust the oven rack to the lower-middle position. Grease a 12-cup bundt pan and dust with flour. Combine flour, baking powder and salt in a medium mixing bowl.<br />
Combine the butter, cream cheese and sugar in a large mixing bowl and cream with an electric mixer on medium high speed until fluffy, about 3 minutes, scraping down the sides of the bowl if necessary.<br />
With the mixer on medium speed, add the eggs one at a time, scraping down the sides of the bowl after each addition. Beat in the vanilla, ginger and lemon zest.<br />
Turn the mixer to low speed and add the flour mixture, 1/2 cup at a time, scraping down the sides of the bowl after each addition. After the last addition, mix for 30 seconds on medium speed.<br />
Place the cake in a cold oven. Turn the oven to 325F and bake, without opening the door, until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, 65-80 minutes.<br />
Cool the cake in the pan for 15 minutes, then invert it onto rack. Cool completely before slicing and serving.<br />
Store uneaten cake in a cake keeper, or wrapped in plastic at room temperature for upto 3 days.<br />
<br />
<u>Note</u>:<br />
I divided the cake batter among two loaf pans and there was not enough and thats the reason it baked flat. Its best to use a bundt pan, it rises beautifully and looks great or use smaller loaf pans.<br />
<br /></div>
Poornima Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406513045514659836noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5359952804822034224.post-73242857792601654302013-06-11T05:21:00.000+05:302013-06-11T05:21:33.952+05:30Eggless Chocolate Mango Marble Cake<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8537/9010527697_6f5b2ed397_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8537/9010527697_6f5b2ed397_c.jpg" width="596" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Chocolate and mango are on the top of my list of favorite flavors and they pair up beautifully too. This was the second dish we baked as part of the Homebaker's Challenge and the recipe was chosen by Sangeetha of <a href="http://www.spicytreats.net/">Spicy Treats</a>.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3790/9010527595_23ed588afb_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3790/9010527595_23ed588afb_c.jpg" width="591" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We had two recipes to chose from, with or without eggs and I went eggless this time. I usually prefer baking with eggs but this recipe did not disappoint. The cake was moist and the two flavors really stood out. Like most eggless cakes this one too had a dense crumb, but the taste more that compensated for it.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The only change I made was adding a little bit of coffee to the chocolate batter and that really helped to enhance the chocolate flavor.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Chocolate Mango Marble Loaf</b></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2805/9010527503_bc9f16ae4c_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2805/9010527503_bc9f16ae4c_c.jpg" width="610" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Ingredients</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
2 cups all purpose flour</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
11/2 tsps baking powder</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/2 tsp baking soda</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/4 tsp salt</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/4 cup cocoa powder</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
3/4 cup sugar</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
5 tbsp oil</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 tsp vanilla extract</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 cup mango pulp</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/4 milk</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/4 cup buttermilk</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Method</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Preheat the oven to 350F/ 180C. Grease and line a 9" x 5" loaf pan.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Mix the cocoa powder with 3-4 tbs of warm water and keep aside.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In a large bowl whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt until well combined.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In another bowl mix together the sugar, oil, vanilla, mango pulp, milk and buttermilk.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and fold gently until well combined.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Divide the batter into two and gently fold in the cocoa mixture into one half.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Pour the two batters alternately into the prepared pan and run a knife through the batter to create a marbled effect.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Bake for 50 - 55 minutes or until done.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
Poornima Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406513045514659836noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5359952804822034224.post-13799633312467452952013-05-10T21:38:00.000+05:302013-05-10T21:38:29.123+05:30Pizza from Scratch with Onions, Bell Pepper, Chicken Sausage and Corn<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7327/8725278743_25cde12370_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7327/8725278743_25cde12370_c.jpg" width="598" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It is so surprising that I've never posted a pizza recipe here, because it's something we make so regularly. Although we love eating out, when it comes to pizza especially, home made is just so much better.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7353/8726396932_e626706cc4_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7353/8726396932_e626706cc4_c.jpg" width="600" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I love experimenting with different crusts, sauces and toppings, there are so many options. The crusts don't always turn out perfect, but cheese (just like chocolate), makes makes everything taste good.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7367/8726396918_fde941f6ae_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7367/8726396918_fde941f6ae_c.jpg" width="600" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://priyaeasyntastyrecipes.blogspot.fr/2013/04/announcing-home-bakers-challenge_8.html">Home Bakers Challenge</a> is a new group started by Priya of <a href="http://priyaeasyntastyrecipes.blogspot.com/">Priya's Versatile Recipes</a> and we all baked Pizza for our first challenge.The recipe below is by Giada Laurentis and the only change I made was substitute half the flour with wheat flour. The crust baked perfectly and it had great texture and was not at all soggy. Went along with a simple marinara sauce and some of our favorite toppings and cheeses. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Pizza from Scratch</span></b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7342/8725278775_1a32b65974_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7342/8725278775_1a32b65974_c.jpg" width="599" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Dough:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Ingredients</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/2 cup warm water (105-110 degrees F)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
2 tsps active dry yeast</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 cup all purpose flour</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 cup whole wheat flour</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 tsp salt</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
3 tbs olive oil</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://poornimastastytreats.blogspot.com/2009/03/spaghetti-with-chicken-meatballs.html">Pizza Sauce</a> ( I used the marinara sauce that I make often, recipe <a href="http://poornimastastytreats.blogspot.com/2009/03/spaghetti-with-chicken-meatballs.html">here</a> )</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Cheese, Mozzarella and Sharp Cheddar</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Toppings I used:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Onion</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Capsicum</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Chicken Sausage</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Corn kernels</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Method</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Mix the warm water and yeast in a small bowl and let stand for about 5 minutes until the yeast dissolves.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Mix the flour and salt in a bowl. Add the olive oil and stir it in with your fingers. Add the yeast mixture and mix until the dough comes together.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Turn out into a lightly floured surface and knead for couple of minutes until smooth.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Transfer the dough to a large oiled bowl and turn the dough to coat with oil. Cover the bowl with a plastic wrap and set aside in a warm area until it doubles in volume, about an hour.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Punch the dough and divide into two equal balls.( Use the dough immediately or store refrigerated in an air-tight container for one day).</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Preheat oven to 450 degrees F. Keep your pizza stone or a rimless baking sheet inside the oven as it preheats. Sprinkle cornmeal over a piece of parchment paper. Place the dough on the parchment paper and roll out or spread the dough with your fingers to your desired thickness, I like a thin crust pizza.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Brush the dough lightly with some olive oil.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Spread some pizza sauce over the dough and then sprinkle the cheese over the sauce, as much as you like.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Top with your favorite toppings and sprinkle some oregano and chili flakes and salt.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Take the pizza stone or baking sheet out of the oven and transfer the pizza along with the parchment paper onto it.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Bake the pizza until the crusts are crisp and brown on the bottom and the cheese has melted and is bubbly.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7433/8726396882_eed9859f69_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7433/8726396882_eed9859f69_c.jpg" width="571" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<br />Poornima Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406513045514659836noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5359952804822034224.post-59026303925174002462013-05-06T09:19:00.000+05:302013-05-06T09:19:14.713+05:30Mango Strawberry Carrot Smoothie<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8401/8711525045_a1c6d13d08_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8401/8711525045_a1c6d13d08_c.jpg" width="591" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
I have been making smoothies everyday for the last couple of years. Anushka and I, have a smoothie daily for our mid morning snack and it's the only thing she will have without a fuss.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Smoothies are the perfect way to include a good serving of fruits and vegetables in your daily diet, especially for kids. They are healthy, refreshing and so filling. Use ripe, sweet fruits and fresh vegetables and mix and match them to get various flavors, colors and textures. Makes a wonderful healthy dessert too.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8274/8712651624_2a12447aa9_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8274/8712651624_2a12447aa9_c.jpg" width="591" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
I always try to add vegetables to my smoothies, about a third of the amount of fruits. I have tried a lot of combinations and this is one of my favorites. Use tender sweet carrots and sweet mangoes and strawberries and you'll have a great tasting drink.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Mango Strawberry Carrot Smoothie</span></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8117/8712651492_a11d5a2971_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8117/8712651492_a11d5a2971_c.jpg" width="611" /></a></div>
<br />
<u><br /></u>
<u>Ingredients</u>:<br />
pulp of two mangoes<br />
8 strawberries, hulled and chopped<br />
1 big carrot, washed and peeled and chopped<br />
1/2 cup plain yogurt<br />
sugar/honey/ any other sweetener as needed (I usually avoid this)<br />
cold water as needed<br />
<br />
<u>Method</u>:<br />
Take all the ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Add sugar if needed and add enough water to get the required consistency and blend again. Serve immediately.<br />
<br />Poornima Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406513045514659836noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5359952804822034224.post-71904578248630477982013-04-26T10:39:00.001+05:302015-03-21T11:21:56.283+05:30Mango Cream Cake<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8258/8682911544_17c41e8687_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8258/8682911544_17c41e8687_c.jpg" height="800" width="601" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It was Manoj's birthday yesterday, time for yet another celebration. Though the day went by as usual, we had a few friends over for dinner. I cooked a simple meal and of course there was cake for dessert.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The last cakes I baked were for Anushka's birthday and there were a lot of sleepless nights and fussing and swearing involved, so when I asked Manoj what kind of cake he wanted, the only thing he asked was to keep it simple :).</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Mangoes are everywhere now and the ones I bought this weekend were so juicy and sweet, they seemed perfect for a cake. I decided to stay away from spatulas and icing bags and to just keep things really simple. Once the layers were baked and cooled, it just took a few minutes and the cake was ready and I loved the way it looked.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I have been looking for a good vanilla cake recipe to use with such cream cakes, one that uses oil so that its moist even straight out of the fridge and one that's not too sweet. I did not find one so I tried out this cream cake from Sky High. It uses heavy cream instead of butter, it's light and it's delicious and so moist, just what I was looking for. This recipe makes three layers, but I used only two. If using all the three layers, you will have to make some more of the filling, just double or increase the quantities by 50%.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Mango Cream Cake</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8113/8682911552_f7db1a14c6_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8113/8682911552_f7db1a14c6_c.jpg" height="800" width="615" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Cake:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Ingredients</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 3/4 cups cake flour</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
3 3/4 tsps baking powder</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/2 tsp salt</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 cup heavy cream</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
2 tsps vanilla extract</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 1/4 cups sugar (I used 1 1/8 cups)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
2 whole eggs</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
2 egg yolk</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
3 tbs buttermilk</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Method</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Grease and line three 8" pans with parchment paper.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees C/ 350 degrees F.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Sift the flour, baking powder and salt together and keep aside.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Combine the cream and vanilla in a large bowl and whip until soft peaks begin to form.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Reduce the speed gradually to low and beat in the sugar, but do not whip until stiff.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Add the whole eggs and egg yolks and whip until the batter forms soft peaks.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Sift about a third of the dry ingredients over the batter and fold in by hand. Repeat 2 more times until all of the flour mixture has been added. Finally fold in the buttermilk.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Divide the batter among the three pans. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Bake the cake layers for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Allow the cakes to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then invert them onto wire racks. Carefully peel of the parchment paper and allow to cool completely.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Sugar Syrup</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Ingredients</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
2 tbs sugar</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/2 cup water</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Method</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Heat the sugar and water until the sugar has dissolved. Keep aside to cool.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8531/8681799155_85a3bdfe4a_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8531/8681799155_85a3bdfe4a_c.jpg" height="800" width="584" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Mango Cream</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Ingredients</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 tbs water</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 1/2 tsps gelatin</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 cup mango puree</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/2 tsp vanilla extract</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
2 - 4 tbs sugar, as needed depending on the sweetness of the mangoes</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Mangoes, Berries and Chocolate Shavings for topping </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Ingredients</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Sprinkle the gelatin over the water and keep aside for 5 minutes for the gelatin to bloom.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Take the cream and vanilla extract in a chilled bowl and sprinkle sugar over it. Whip until it forms stiff peaks.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Heat the gelatin for a few seconds in the microwave or on a double boiler until clear and melted.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Stir the gelatin into the mango puree. Fold in the whipped cream into the mango.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Store in the fridge until the cream thickens and almost sets.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>To Assemble the cake</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Level the layers if needed. Brush one cake layer with the sugar syrup until moist.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Spread half of the mango cream over the layer. Moisten the other cake layer with sugar syrup and place on top of the cream. Spread the remaining cream over the cake.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Top with fruits.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Refrigerate covered for a few hours and serve.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
Poornima Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406513045514659836noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5359952804822034224.post-48040819713966946012013-04-14T08:16:00.001+05:302013-04-14T08:16:42.068+05:30Quinoa Fried "Rice" and Chili Fish<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8536/8646276829_0101e95a4d_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8536/8646276829_0101e95a4d_c.jpg" width="603" /></a></div>
<br />
A few of us friends met a couple of weeks back and at some point we started discussing and sharing ideas of the meals we cook regularly. I mentioned Quinoa and none of my friends had ever tasted it and some of them were even reluctant to give it a try. We met again for lunch at my place this week and I made my favorite Quinoa recipe for them. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I have been cooking with Quinoa for a while now and I've always used it as a substitute for rice whenever I could. Of all the ways I've cooked it, this stir fry is my favorite and a dish I make all the time. Anushka loves it too and its a great way to include a lot vegetables in one meal. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The chili fish is so easy to make and something I planned at the last minute as an appetizer for our meal. I just went along with what I usually do with chicken and surprisingly it turned out great and it was gone as soon as it was served.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Quinoa "Fried Rice"</span></b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8254/8646276867_e04b328fd7_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8254/8646276867_e04b328fd7_c.jpg" width="593" /></a></div>
<br />
<i>(Simple omit chicken and eggs to make it vegetarian)</i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Ingredients</u>:<br />
1 cup quinoa<br />
2 cups chicken/ vegetable stock or water<br />
2 tbs oil<br />
2 eggs<br />
3 scallions, chopped, whites and greens separated<br />
1 tbs finely chopped ginger and garlic<br />
1-2 green chilies finely chopped<br />
2 heaping cups diced mixed vegetables (carrot, beans, peas, capsicum, broccoli, corn, zucchini)<br />
1 cup cooked chicken, diced<br />
1 tsp fresh ground pepper (add as per your taste)<br />
dash of soy sauce and vinegar (optional)<br />
salt to taste<br />
<br />
<u>Method</u>:<br />
Cook the quinoa atleast an hour before making this dish.<br />
Boil the water. Rinse the quinoa and add to the boiling water. Mix, cover, reduce the heat to low and cook for 20 minute. Let sit for 5 minutes and then fluff with a fork, spread out in the pan and cool completely.<br />
Heat 1tsp oil in a wok or other large pan and scramble the two eggs with a little salt and pepper. Remove from pan and keep aside.<br />
Heat the remaining oil in the wok and fry the onion whites, garlic, ginger and green chilies for a few seconds.<br />
Add the diced vegetables and stir fry on high heat for a minute. Add the chicken and fry for another minute. Add the cooked quinoa, scrambled egg, salt, pepper powder, soy sauce and vinegar and mix well on high heat until heated through.<br />
Garnish with spring onion greens and serve hot.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Chili Fish</b></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8104/8646276839_f8a9cdebd9_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8104/8646276839_f8a9cdebd9_c.jpg" width="586" /></a></div>
<br />
<u>Ingredients</u>:<br />
250 gms fish fillet, cut into bite size pieces (I used tilapia)<br />
1 tbs cornflour<br />
2 tsps ginger garlic paste<br />
1/2 tsp pepper powder<br />
1/2 tsp red chili powder<br />
1/4 tsp garam masala<br />
salt to taste<br />
2 tbs beaten egg<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8529/8646276887_bf52d1028e_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8529/8646276887_bf52d1028e_c.jpg" width="578" /></a></div>
<br />
2 scallions, chopped fine, white and greens separated<br />
1 tsp finely chopped ginger<br />
1 tsp finely chopped garlic<br />
1/2 tsp pepper powder<br />
1/8 cup chicken/ vegetable stock or water<br />
1 tbs soy sauce<br />
1/4 tsp sugar<br />
dash of siracha/ chili sauce and vinegar<br />
salt to taste<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8111/8646276877_b24e60e4d3_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8111/8646276877_b24e60e4d3_c.jpg" width="599" /></a></div>
<br />
<u>Method</u>:<br />
Mix the cornflour, ginger garlic paste, pepper, red chili powder, garam masala, salt and egg to make a thick paste. Add the fish. Mix well, cover and keep aside for about an hour.<br />
Heat 1 tbs oil in a non stick pan and fry the fish on medium high heat until cooked and browned. Remove from pan onto paper towels.<br />
Add a little more oil to the pan and add the white scallions, ginger and garlic and fry until fragrant. Turn the heat to high and add the stock, soy sauce, sugar, siracha, vinegar and bring to a boil. Add salt if needed. Add the fish and toss gently to coat with the sauce all over without breaking the fish pieces. Cook for another minute, garnish with scallion greens and serve hot.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
Poornima Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406513045514659836noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5359952804822034224.post-78242124539325012532013-03-25T11:12:00.000+05:302013-03-25T11:12:22.620+05:30The Minnie Mouse Party - Cakes, Decorations and Games<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8096/8586974899_4144438c88_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8096/8586974899_4144438c88_c.jpg" width="639" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Anushka turned three a few days ago and this year we celebrated her birthday "Minnie Mouse Style"! It was so exciting planning the party, working with all pink and black and getting all the decorations ready. There were a lot of times when I could involve Anushka, especially when there was glue involved and she so enjoyed messing everything up:)<br />
<br />
Then of course there were the cakes and lots of them...(Links to the recipes below the pictures)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8247/8579637944_bc45a28f82_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8247/8579637944_bc45a28f82_c.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://poornimastastytreats.blogspot.com/2011/08/chocolate-truffle-cake-for-my-birthday.html">Chocolate Cake</a> filled with <a href="http://poornimastastytreats.blogspot.com/2011/08/chocolate-truffle-cake-for-my-birthday.html">Ganache</a> and <a href="http://poornimastastytreats.blogspot.com/2012/02/my-first-fondant-cake-very-moist-yellow.html">Swiss Meringue Buttercream Frosting</a>(SMB)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8367/8578538227_11d86e172b_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8367/8578538227_11d86e172b_c.jpg" width="464" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.foodandwine.com/recipes/double-chocolate-layer-cake">Chocolate cake</a> filled with Strawberry Whipped Cream and frosted with <a href="http://poornimastastytreats.blogspot.com/2012/02/my-first-fondant-cake-very-moist-yellow.html">SMB</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8528/8579639574_41acebf330_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8528/8579639574_41acebf330_c.jpg" width="636" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Vanilla Chiffon Cake with Strawberry Cream filling and <a href="http://poornimastastytreats.blogspot.com/2012/02/my-first-fondant-cake-very-moist-yellow.html">SMB</a> frosting</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
I love tall cakes and attempted a tiered one this time, my first! I kept the top tier short though or else we would have ended up with too much cake. The Minnie Mouse figurines gave me a few sleepless nights, it was not easy getting the face right and I was so relieved when I was done. All in all we had two fun evenings with friends and I still cannot believe that it's been 3 years!!<br />
Just sharing a few more pictures and details from the parties....<br />
<br />
Welcome sign on the door...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8110/8586975541_6d7d914523_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8110/8586975541_6d7d914523_c.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8372/8588076174_afdf85a7d7_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="398" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8372/8588076174_afdf85a7d7_c.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
The banner was designed in paint and then printed and cut into shape. The number 3 is cut out of stiff felt and I glued some pink tissue flowers on it.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8250/8588076334_e81bebd541_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8250/8588076334_e81bebd541_c.jpg" width="492" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Made this out of paper pinwheels, my favorite thing!</div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8392/8588076260_de0db0819f_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8392/8588076260_de0db0819f_c.jpg" width="497" /></a></div>
<br />
I made these Minnie Mouse Ears kind of following the tutorial <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rrgVt1g5tJM">here</a>. But I took the easy way out and bought black plastic hairbands. I used stiff black felt with the sticker on the back, so all I had to do was cut the ears using this template and then wrap them around the band and stick them together. They were very stiff and stood up straight. I made the bows and hot glued them on the bands. Anushka loved these and still wears them all the time.<br />
<br />
Here is a great game for a Minnie mouse party...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8240/8586975511_1da737c32b_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8240/8586975511_1da737c32b_c.jpg" width="472" /></a></div>
<br />
The blind-folded birthday girl pinning her bow...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8098/8586975759_bd34e8c0d9_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8098/8586975759_bd34e8c0d9_c.jpg" width="510" /></a></div>
<br />
Last but my favorite...the pinata, I was so happy with the way it turned out and the kids always love it. I got the idea from <a href="http://www.adisneymomsthoughts.com/2011/12/mickey-mouse-pinata-tutorial.html">here</a> but made it a pull string one. It's perfect for kids this age especially if you're having an indoor party.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8383/8588075996_c278a8b593_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8383/8588075996_c278a8b593_c.jpg" width="482" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
"I want to pull"...the birthday girl goes first and I had my fingers crossed the whole time praying all the kids get a turn.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8106/8586975673_bd2ffa612b_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8106/8586975673_bd2ffa612b_c.jpg" width="444" /></a></div>
<br />
It was an amazing experience planing the party and Anushka had a great time. Here's the exhausted birthday girl with her favorite gifts...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8228/8588762808_96a744b186_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8228/8588762808_96a744b186_c.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
Poornima Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406513045514659836noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5359952804822034224.post-20865703340350233902013-02-28T11:38:00.001+05:302013-02-28T11:38:54.786+05:30Kappa Masala - Spiced Tapioca/ Yucca Root<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8388/8515357488_323949c7d1_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8388/8515357488_323949c7d1_c.jpg" width="588" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The members of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/keralakitchen/">Kerala Kitchen</a>, a facebook group have decided to cook a traditional dish from Kerala every month. I loved the idea as there are a lot of dishes I would love to make and whats better than a group of fellow enthusiasts cooking together. Nags of Edible Garden selected <a href="http://www.cookingandme.com/2013/02/kerala-kappa-masala-tapioca-masala.html">Kappa Masala</a> as the recipe for this month and its one I enjoy any time of day.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8093/8514241853_cd87bf360c_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8093/8514241853_cd87bf360c_c.jpg" width="600" /></a></div>
<br />
I make kappa atleast a couple of times every month, but its usually just steamed for breakfast or snack times. And if I do make a fish curry I make sure to make a little puzhukku, my favorite! Though I have eaten this kappa masala a few times, this was the first time I made it myself. I actually made it thrice this month, the first two times it was almost over before I could take pictures, but the third time I was determined! It was delicious and made the perfect tea time snack.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Kappa Masala</b></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8370/8515357198_6daf7a9540_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8370/8515357198_6daf7a9540_c.jpg" width="591" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Ingredients</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
500 gms kappa, tapioca, peeled and cut into cubes</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 tbs coconut oil</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/2 tsp mustard seeds</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 tsp urad dal</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 sprig curry leaves</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
2 big cloves of garlic, crushed</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
3/4 tsp dried red chili flakes or use while chilies to taste and crush with the garlic</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/4 tsp turmeric powder</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
salt to taste<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8505/8514241963_4b57e4b311_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8505/8514241963_4b57e4b311_c.jpg" width="592" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Method</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Take the kappa in a large pot and add enough water to cover it well and some salt and cook until the kappa is tender but holds its shape. Drain the water well.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Heat the oil in a pan and splutter the mustard seeds. Add the urad dal and fry until browned. Add the curry leaves, garlic, red chili flakes and turmeric and fry for a few seconds, take care not to burn the garlic</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Add the boiled kappa and salt of needed and stir until everything is well combined and the kappa is evenly coated with the spice mixture.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Remove from heat and serve hot.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
Poornima Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406513045514659836noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5359952804822034224.post-73268904306872756932013-02-14T12:10:00.002+05:302013-02-14T12:13:52.174+05:30Chocolate Biscuit Cake<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8530/8471970653_fa629f4a4e_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8530/8471970653_fa629f4a4e_c.jpg" width="623" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Here's wishing you all a Very Happy Valentines Day! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I've been celebrating the whole week, doing all kinds of crafts for Anushka's school. I've cut and glued so many hearts, Valentines Day has never been more real! To me its another day to be around chocolate and if I'm really lucky maybe I'll have something new by the end of the day:)<br />
I'm going to be doing a lot of baking in the coming weeks, so I decide to make this super simple no-bake dessert instead. This recipe was given to us by one of our teachers when we were in the 6th grade and it was probably the first dessert I ever made. The original recipe used a simple buttercream frosting but I like this fudge frosting much better. I used to make it so often back then, my brother and I just loved it. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
You can easily adjust the amounts to make as many cakes as you like or you can pile the biscuits high and make a really tall cake. This is also just the thing to make with your kids. Anushka loved dipping the biscuits and stacking them.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Chocolate Biscuit Cake</b></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8227/8473062156_34701433c5_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8227/8473062156_34701433c5_c.jpg" width="615" /></a></div>
<br />
<u>Ingredients</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/2 cup milk</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
2 tsps instant coffee powder</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/2 tbs sugar</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
12 digestive biscuits<br />
<br />
<i>Quick Fudge Frosting</i>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
50gms bittersweet chocolate</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 tbs butter</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/2 tbs golden syrup or light corn syrup<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8374/8471970497_2b67fe3f28_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8374/8471970497_2b67fe3f28_c.jpg" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Method</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Warm the milk slightly and dissolve the coffee powder and sugar in the milk. Keep the milk aside to cool.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Dip one cookie at a time in the milk and stack them neatly one on top of another to make two cakes of 6 cookies each. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Place the stacked cookies in the freezer while you make the icing.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Melt the chocolate over a double boiler until melted and smooth. Stir in the corn syrup and butter until melted. Keep aside to cool until the frosting is thick enough to frost with.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Remove the biscuit cakes from the freezer and frost both the cakes. Decorate as desired and keep refrigerated.<br />
<br /></div>
Poornima Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406513045514659836noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5359952804822034224.post-90773369675493887782013-02-09T12:30:00.000+05:302013-02-09T12:30:58.609+05:30Chana Dal/ Bengal Gram Masala<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8377/8458057034_aa44228fbe_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8377/8458057034_aa44228fbe_c.jpg" width="592" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I make dal almost everyday and yet its the one thing we never get tired of. This is one of my favorite recipes. I make it using all kinds of lentils but I like the flavor of chana dal best. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I have been trying to avoid carbs at night and on such days, a bowl of this dal with a salad or roasted vegetables or fish is what I have for dinner. This tastes great paired with rice, roti or any kind of bread and even on its own.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
You can find the recipe for the roasted salmon <a href="http://poornimastastytreats.blogspot.com/2009/03/spicy-fried-fish.html">here</a>.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Chana Dal Masala</b></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8096/8456956915_5dfd607a65_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8096/8456956915_5dfd607a65_c.jpg" width="601" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Ingredients</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 cup chana dal/ benal gram</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/4 tsp turmeric powder</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 tsp salt</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 tsp oil</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/2 tsp cumin seeds</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/2 tsp mustard seeds</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
large pinch asafoetida/ hing</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
2 dry red chilies</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 small onion</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 1/2 tsp cumin powder</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/2 tsp garam masala</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/2 tsp red chili powder</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/4 tsp turmeric powder</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
2 tomatoes</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
finely chopped cilantro<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8249/8458057262_6ab9d5abe1_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8249/8458057262_6ab9d5abe1_c.jpg" width="581" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Method</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Soak the dal overnight. Cook it in sufficient water with some salt and turmeric powder either in a pressure cooker or in an open pan until soft.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Heat oil in a big saucepan and add the mustard and cumin seeds. When they splutter add the asafoetida and the red chilies. Then add the onions and saute until transparent and soft. Then add the gingergarlic paste and fry for a few seconds until the raw smell is gone.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Add the dry spice powders and fry for a few seconds. Add the tomatoes and some salt. Cook until the tomatoes are soft and mashed and cooked. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Stir in the cooked dal and mix well. Add water if required to adjust the consistency. Bring to a boil and cover and let simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Garnish with the chopped cilantro.</div>
Poornima Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406513045514659836noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5359952804822034224.post-75075956671189568072013-02-01T04:35:00.002+05:302021-03-12T01:31:45.273+05:30Chocolate Panna Cotta<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8325/8433086243_9fc4a5945c_c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8325/8433086243_9fc4a5945c_c.jpg" width="592" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Today is going to be a really exciting day for Anushka. She has a school picnic and will be taking the Bart to a park with all her classmates. I know she is going to be so happy and excited, she just loves the 'choo choo train'. With all this excitement I couldn't sleep and was up so early, its just 7.00 and I'm done with all my work. A good one hour before Anushka wakes up and just enough time to finish this post.</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I borrowed this amazing all chocolate book from the library last week and have been drooling at the pictures and reading about chocolate every free minute. Yesterday I got super tempted and got all the ingredients ready for a chocolate mousse. But over whipped cream happened and I had to drop the plan. Then I remembered this recipe that I had bookmarked a couple of days before that called for just the amount of cream I had left.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8498/8434171882_f72d614170_c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8498/8434171882_f72d614170_c.jpg" width="570" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The panna cotta is super chocolaty and makes an amazing quick dessert. What I loved about it is that it uses whole milk instead of cream and it has pure chocolate flavor, so use the best one that you can get. The original recipe does not call for any additional sugar but I thought it needed some more and the amount of gelatin can definitely be reduced. I have made the changes below to the recipe that I adapted from <a href="https://www.valrhona-chocolate.com/recipes/cremes-and-mousses/chocolate-panna-cotta">here</a>.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Chocolate Panna Cotta</b></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8234/8433086135_5665385a68_c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8234/8433086135_5665385a68_c.jpg" width="612" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Ingredients</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
3/4 cups whole milk</div><div style="text-align: justify;">2 tbs sugar</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">1tsp vanilla extact</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
pinch of salt</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">1 1/4 tsps powdered unflavored gelatin</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
2 tbs water for the gelatin</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
4.5 oz dark chocolate (I used semi-sweet)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
2 tbs cream</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Method</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Take the water in a small bowl and sprinkle gelatin evenly over it. Let stand for about 5 mins until softened. Melt the gelatin in the microwave or over a double boiler.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Heat the milk and sugar and bring to a simmer. Remove from heat.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">Stir in the melted gelatin and salt. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Melt the chocolate over a double boiler making sure no water or steam mixes with the chocolate. Strain and pour the hot milk mixture over the chocolate. Add the vanilla and carefully emulsify with a hand blender (I added the milk in three batches and just mixed it really well with a spatula). Add the cream and stir just to incorporate. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Let cool to room temperature and pour into 4 small serving glasses and refrigerate for atleast 4 hours.</div>
Poornima Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406513045514659836noreply@blogger.com43tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5359952804822034224.post-28377728532787389612013-01-27T12:51:00.000+05:302013-01-27T12:51:05.908+05:30Vegetable Kofta Curry<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8472/8419060330_1574beac1f_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8472/8419060330_1574beac1f_c.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
One of my resolutions this year was to have a salad with each meal or maybe even replace a meal with salads. I am super proud that I have managed to stick to this one for so long. Even the other meals have been really basic and simple and I have not really cooked anything to post about, even if I did I was too lazy to take pictures. A couple of weeks back, we visited some friends and I had the best homemade Malai Kofta Curry. The flavors were amazing, the gravy was really rich and creamy, like the kind we get in restaurants.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I love koftas and by next week I was really craving for some more. I made some last weekend but I did skip the cream and nuts in the gravy and kept it really simple and light. If you are looking for something rich then maybe you can stir in some cream and simmer for a few minutes. The koftas can be fried in advance but insert them in the hot gravy just before serving, they do soak up and become really soft.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Vegetable Kofta Curry</span></b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8224/8417966077_76dea664f2_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8224/8417966077_76dea664f2_c.jpg" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Ingredients</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
For the koftas:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 big potato (about 200 gms), boiled, drained and mashed<br />
150 gms fresh paneer, crumbled<br />
1 carrot, grated fine<br />
3 green chilies, finely chopped<br />
1/4 tsp garam masala<br />
1/2 tsp cumin powder<br />
2 tbs cornflour<br />
small handful cilantro, finely chopped<br />
1 tbs grated fresh ginger<br />
1 tsp lemon juice<br />
salt to taste<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
For the gravy:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 tbs oil</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 medium onion</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 tbs ginger garlic paste</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/4 tsp turmeric powder</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 tsp coriander powder</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 tsp cumin powder</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 tsp red chili powder or to taste</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/2 tsp garam masala powder</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
2 tomatoes</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 tbs kasoori methi</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
salt to taste</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
dash of lemon juice<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8323/8419060436_2e7633778a_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8323/8419060436_2e7633778a_c.jpg" width="639" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Method:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
For the koftas:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Mix all the ingredients together and blend them really well using your fingers until it comes together like a ball of dough. Take small portions and shape them into round or oval koftas.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Heat oil and deep fry until brown. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Drain and keep aside.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
For the gravy:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Heat oil and fry the onions until golden. Add the ginger garlic paste and fry until the raw smell is gone.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Add the dry spices and stir for a few seconds. Remove from heat and blend the onion mixture with the tomatoes to a puree.<br />
Return the puree to the pan on medium high heat until the tomato mixture is done and the oil separates. Add kasoori methi and salt and enough water to adjust the gravy consistency,. Bring to a boil, cover and let simmer for 10 minutes.<br />
Before serving warm up the gravy and insert the koftas gently into the gravy. Do not stir or the koftas will get mashed.</div>
<br />Poornima Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406513045514659836noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5359952804822034224.post-54753876961662255142013-01-02T12:47:00.000+05:302013-01-03T00:50:28.437+05:30Coffee Mascarpone Cream Cake<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8499/8337293992_460e75742d_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8499/8337293992_460e75742d_c.jpg" width="610" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A Very Happy New Year to all my readers. Here's hoping for a Bright, Prosperous and Happy 2013. The last few weeks of the last year were all fun, we had a wonderful holiday and spent a lot of time with friends. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I hardly had any time for blogging but I did not want to miss posting on the first day of the new year.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8222/8336236803_4f05b8ac90_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8222/8336236803_4f05b8ac90_c.jpg" width="588" /></a></div>
<br />
Last night one of my friends bought a Tiramisu cake for our new year party, I was so thrilled to see it and it was just fabulous. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I had made a tiramisu cake a while back and I loved the coffee, mascarpone and chocolate combination. This cake has very similar flavors, but there is no liquor and it is much lighter because of the fatless sponge. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Coffee Mascarpone Cream Cake</span></b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8211/8336236107_c0ee7ea09a_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8211/8336236107_c0ee7ea09a_c.jpg" width="607" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Ingredients</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Coffee Sponge:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
4 eggs, at room temperature</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
4 tbs sugar</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 tbs instant coffee powder dissolved in 1 tbs water</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
8 tbs flour</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Soaking syrup:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/2 cup water</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1/4 cup sugar</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Mascarpone cream:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 cup heavy whipping cream</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
4 oz mascarpone cheese</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
3-4 tbs powdered sugar</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1 1/2 tsp instant coffee powder dissolved in 1 tbs water<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8360/8336236629_a8a725d375_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8360/8336236629_a8a725d375_c.jpg" width="596" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<u>Method</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Coffee Sponge:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Preheat oven to 390F/ 200C.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Line the bottom of two 8"pans with parchment paper.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Take the eg gs, sugar, coffee paste and sugar in a large bowl and beat on high speed for 10 minutes.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Very gently fold in the flour in two batches until well combined without deflating the mixture.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Divide the batter among the two pans and level the top.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Bake for 18 -20 minutes until done. Cool in the pan on wire racks.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Soaking syrup:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Heat the sugar and water until the sugar dissolves completely. Keep aside to cool.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8497/8337293506_89c768b7f4_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8497/8337293506_89c768b7f4_c.jpg" width="609" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Mascarpone Cream:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Chill the bowl and beaters and the cream well. Take the cream and sugar in the chilled bowl and whip to almost stiff peaks. Whip the mascarpone and coffee mixture for a minute to lighten the mascarpone and then gently stir in about a fourth of the whipped cream. Fold in the remaining whipped cream gently.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
To assemble the cake:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Slide a knife along the edge of the pan to release the cake and peel off the parchment paper. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Brush sugar syrup evenly all over one of the cakes to moisten it well. Place it on a plate or cake server.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Top with a little less than a third of the mascarpone cream mixture.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Moisten the other cake layer and place it over the first one.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Frost the sides and top of the cake with the remaining frosting and decorate as desired.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Refrigerate covered for a few hours before serving.</div>
<br />Poornima Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03406513045514659836noreply@blogger.com13