Herbs and Edible leaves Archives - My Veg Fare https://www.myvegfare.com/category/herbs-and-edible-leaves/ Healthy, Hearty and tasty wholesome food Recipes of your choice Sat, 29 Apr 2023 18:15:20 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://www.myvegfare.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/cropped-favicon-32x32.png Herbs and Edible leaves Archives - My Veg Fare https://www.myvegfare.com/category/herbs-and-edible-leaves/ 32 32 Kale and Almond Pesto - Jamie's Italian Olive Oil Buyer's Guide https://www.myvegfare.com/kale-and-almond-pesto-jamies-italian-olive-oil-buyers-guide/ https://www.myvegfare.com/kale-and-almond-pesto-jamies-italian-olive-oil-buyers-guide/#comments Tue, 12 Sep 2017 19:57:28 +0000 http://wpsite.in/myvf/?post_type=recipe&p=2898 This superfood whole some kale pesto is simple with easy pantry staple ingredients except for Hemp seeds!   With a dash of spices and Olive oil is a versatile dish which need not have to use just as pesto, but as a dip, spread, and in any other way you like to have it!  And you...

Read More

The post Kale and Almond Pesto - Jamie's Italian Olive Oil Buyer's Guide appeared first on My Veg Fare.

]]>
Kale and Almond pesto
This superfood whole some kale pesto is simple with easy pantry staple ingredients except for Hemp seeds!   With a dash of spices and Olive oil is a versatile dish which need not have to use just as pesto, but as a dip, spread, and in any other way you like to have it!  And you have easy to understand guide on how to use your Olive oil by Jamie's Italian !!

Jamie

 From Visually.

We all love food, don’t we? When I go to the supermarkets I started noticing that we have hundreds of choices when it comes to buying food or ingredients right?  After moving here being a vegetarian I started reading labels which I never did before!  As I wanted to be sure whatever I was buying it.  We also never ever bought ready made food which was not so popular in Indian then.  we use different kinds of oils in India which usually is to that state we come from isn't it interesting?

Kale and Almond pesto
Kale famed as superfood belongs to the cruciferous family.  This is high in fiber (1 cup has 2.6grms), high in Iron, high in calcium, Fat-free, keeps cholesterol in check and rich in omega 3, Vitamin A, K and C.   Did you know that even though it is good for health? I read somewhere in Google search that it is not good for everybody.  You must also read about how it is best to eat it raw or cooked or steamed!
Let’s make this superfood pesto then…..


Kale and Almond Pesto with Roasted Red Peppers and goodness of Hemp seeds:
Author: Jayasri
Yields:  2 Cups
Prep time: 20 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Category: Sauce
Cuisine: Italian


INGREDIENTS:
300 grams  Kale*
50 grams of mixed herbs (Basil, Parsley, Oregano)
¼  cup Hemp seeds
1/3 cup Almonds
1 Large Red Pepper
4 Garlic cloves
10 large olives
½ tbsp chili flakes
1 tsp Himalayan pink salt
¼ to ½  cup Olive oil
¼ cup Parmesan cheese (optional)
METHOD:

  1. Take just the leaves of kale, do not use the stem as they will be very chewy, wash well and pat them dry.
  2. Take fresh herbs of your choice I have used Basil, Parsley, Oregano. Wash and clean the herbs pat them dry.
  3. Use a stove top or a grill and roast red pepper and Garlic, peel the skin off and keep it aside.

Kale and Almond Pesto

4. Toasted and cooled Almonds and Hemp seeds for few minutes this just helps in releasing the oil and enhances the flavour.

5. In a food processor combine Almonds, Hemp seeds, olives, garlic, mixed herbs, chilli flakes, roasted red pepper, salt, Kale start processing the machine. With the machine running slowly drizzle olive oil into the processor until the mixture is well blended but still has some texture pausing to scrape down the side so everything is well combined.


6. You can add parmesan if you like a creamier texture or you can completely omit it. I haven’t added it.   Only thing is you need to find out if the Parmesan is a vegetarian as Parmesan contains rennet.
7.  Taste and check if you need more salt and spice.  As some Kale may have a bitter taste.  Adjust accordingly.

Disclaimer: This Post is in collaboration with Jamie's Italian, I am a big fan of  Jamie Oliver. I have been compensated for a small fee and the opinions are my own.

Kale and Almond Pesto
Print

Kale and Almond Pesto - Jamie's Italian Olive Oil Buyer's Guide

Kale is categorised as one of the super foods for its high Nutritional value! Make this pesto with Kale for a super delicious creamy and rich in nutrient as an accompaniment
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes

Ingredients

  • 300 grams Kale
  • 50 grams Mixed Herbs ( Basil, Parsley, Oregano)
  • 1/4 Cup Hemp Seeds
  • 1/3 Cup Almonds
  • 1 Large Red Pepper
  • 4 cloves garlic
  • 1/2 tbsp chilli flakes
  • 1 tsp Himalayan Pink salt ( adjust accordingly )
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese ( optional)

Instructions

  • Take just the leaves of kale, do not use the stem as they will be very chewy, wash well and pat them dry
  • Take fresh herbs of your choice I have used Basil, Parsley, Oregano. Wash and clean the herbs pat them dry.
  • Use a stove top or a grill and roast red pepper and Garlic, peel the skin off and keep it aside.
  • Toasted and cooled Almonds and Hemp seeds for few minutes this just helps in releasing the oil and enhances the flavour.
  • In a food processor combine Almonds, Hemp seeds, olives, garlic, mixed herbs, chilli flakes, roasted red pepper, salt, Kale start processing the machine. With the machine running slowly drizzle olive oil into the processor until the mixture is well blended but still has some texture pausing to scrape down the side so everything is well combined.
  • You can add parmesan if you like a creamier texture or you can completely omit it. I haven’t added it.   Only thing is you need to find out if the Parmesan is a vegetarian as Parmesan contains rennet.
  • Taste and check if you need more salt and spice.  As some Kale may have a bitter taste.  Adjust accordingly

Notes

Kale and Almond Pesto

Superfood Kale Pesto - Jamie's Italian Buyer's guide

NOTES:
You can use different nuts such as walnut, cashew (my favourite and creamier!), Pine nuts (my daughter’s favourite), you can use Brazil nuts (buttery) and Macadamia nuts they are creamier too wouldn’t think of Pistachios though ????!
You can add more olive oil to thin it down and also helps in preserving pesto.  If you are using it in pasta you can even thin it down with a dash of cooked pasta water too.   Store it in air tight container in the refrigerator covered for up to a week.  I suppose you can also freeze pesto in Ice cube trays. Once frozen transfer them to freezer bags and use them as needed but don’t forget to thaw it.
FOR VEGAN VERSION: Use Nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese or completely omit it.
FOR NUT FREE VERSION:  You seeds of Sunflower, Linseed, Pumpkin seeds, or any other seeds instead of nuts.  But use it in less quantity otherwise it might dominate the taste of pesto.

The post Kale and Almond Pesto - Jamie's Italian Olive Oil Buyer's Guide appeared first on My Veg Fare.

]]>
https://www.myvegfare.com/kale-and-almond-pesto-jamies-italian-olive-oil-buyers-guide/feed/ 10
Quinoa and cannellini Bean Burgers https://www.myvegfare.com/quinoa-cannellini-bean-burgers/ https://www.myvegfare.com/quinoa-cannellini-bean-burgers/#comments Wed, 16 Aug 2017 22:58:22 +0000 http://wpsite.in/myvf/?post_type=recipe&p=2881 Quinoa grain pronounced as (KEEN-WAH) has been called the “Gold of Incas”.  Using them in making a Burger gives an Oomph!! Factor and makes it a healthy option, It is one of the super foods because of its super good qualities. Quinoa has a nutty taste, I would say it’s an acquired taste.  It is...

Read More

The post Quinoa and cannellini Bean Burgers appeared first on My Veg Fare.

]]>
Burgers - Quinoa and cannelliniQuinoa grain pronounced as (KEEN-WAH) has been called the “Gold of Incas”.  Using them in making a Burger gives an Oomph!! Factor and makes it a healthy option, It is one of the super foods because of its super good qualities.
Quinoa has a nutty taste, I would say it’s an acquired taste.  It is a complete protein rich, high in Iron, magnesium, and fiber. Though am not a big fan of quinoa I started using it when I started learning more about it.
I started making Burgers when my kids loved Mac Donald burgers after we moved to the UK!  Kids need to eat good healthy food and I am always very particular about it. These Burgers were a good idea, I started incorporating a lot of ingredients in them which they wouldn’t know or fancy them. (This all happened when they were little!).


When kids were so accustomed to eating Indian food and that is what you used to take in your lunch box and suddenly moving to a new country changed everything!  They didn’t want to take rice in their lunch box, they were happy with Chapatis! They said it was difficult for them to sit and eat and they wanted something they could just hold in their hand and bite into.  They had other kids staring into their lunch box!  Some of them would not like the strong flavours when they open their lunch box.  They had hundreds of things in their little head to deal with.

That’s when I started making sandwiches for them and slowly I started making my own bread.  I used to bake twice every week with different ingredients and flavours!  Then I started exploring and started making their lunch box more interesting and delicious.  But, even today my kids remember the lunch box they used to carry when they were in India!  They used to have a snack break and it had interesting healthy snacks with dips and mini versions of Indian food with interesting sides.  My daughter who remembers most of the things than the other two says how her class mates would love her lunch box.
I used to teach in schools every year, here in the UK for some ethical assignments where they introduced different countries and their food habits.  Children would enjoy my way of cooking and would wonder and ask me; Do you really cook like this every day?  and I would say yes, I do.   They were surprised!   but, most Indian households do the same, I am not any special. Every day I cook from scratch and I don’t have anything store bought!
Being a vegetarian after coming here I realized people and doctors asking me if I do get enough nutrition!  I really want to scream out tell the world that being a vegetarian is not a sin, I do get enough of everything!  Unbelievably my grandmother lived up to 106 years, she had a fantastic memory power, good eyesight, and good hearing as well.  Because of her fall, she had no strength in her body, otherwise, she was a stubborn little devil.
Read this post about why and how I started using quinoa you would know how I discovered it, and it has become a staple in my pantry now!
Coming back to these burgers, I usually have few beans soaked and drained (sometimes sprouted) and frozen always.  Which really comes in handy for my quick curries dry or gravy based to go with my phulka (Indian flat bread without oil).
I have used Cannellini beans with some kale for more nutritious Burger!
Burgers - Quinoa and cannellini
Print

Quinoa and cannellini Bean Burgers

Course Breakfast /Brunch /Meal/Dinner
Cuisine International Cuisine
Prep Time 1 day 2 hours
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 5
Author Jayasri Ravi

Ingredients

  • 4 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 orange pepper (use any coloured pepper )
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 1 Onion
  • 2 medium potatoes
  • 1/3 cup Quinoa
  • 2 cups Cannellini Beans cooked
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 tsp Italian herbs
  • 1 cup panko Bread crumbs
  • Fistful Kale leaves
  • 1 tbsp chilli flakes
  • 1 tsp cumin powder
  • 2 tbsp Omega -3 mixed seeds
  • 1/3 cup walnuts ( fistful of walnuts)
  • 2 Bread slices** (check notes)

Paste:

  • 2 to 3 tbsp corn flour
  • 1/3 cup water or as needed

Instructions

  • Wash and Soak Cannellini Beans overnight. Adding a pinch of soda helps in soaking properly and when soaked it also helps in reducing the flatulence beans tend to cause. Next day, wash the beans very well again and cook them to perfection. (use double the quantity of water when cooking I use a pressure cooker. Drain the water from the beans and use only the cooked beans. Do not throw away the water and you can use this to cook Quinoa and also use the water to make a paste.
  • Rinse quinoa three to four times. Drain the water then in a saucepan bring 1 cup of water to boil add quinoa to it then reduce the flame to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10 to 12 minutes until all the water is absorbed, keep an eye you don’t want it burnt. If you feel it has not cooked to perfection add another ¼ cup of water.
  • Cook potatoes. Chop Onions, Garlic, and Ginger. Chop Orange pepper, wash and chop a handful kale. Chop fresh parsley.
  • Toast walnuts, grind them to a powder and then 2 bread slices grind them to a powder.
  • In a wok heat Olive oil, add a tsp of Italian herbs and then some chilli flakes, 3 omega seed mix fry for a minute to this add chopped onion, crushed garlic and ginger, sprinkle of salt to soften it up quickly add Kale and sauté for 2 minutes.
  • Remove it on to a big bowl to this add peeled and mashed potatoes, chopped orange (green) pepper, cooked quinoa, fresh parsley, and Bread crumb mixture.
  • Taste the mixture to adjust the spices. Make 6 to 8 patties depending on the size you want it, shape them like a Burger.
  • Using corn flour and water make a thin paste like consistency. Dip it into the corn flour paste then again roll on to the panko bread crumbs.
  • On a non-stick pan spread a table spoon oil and place 2 to 3 patties depending on the size of the pan cook them on both the sides with another 2 to 3 tbsp of oil to golden brown.
  • Alternatively you can bake in a oven Gas Mark 4 for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they become golden brown colour OR you can use an Air fryer and placing 4 burgers at 180 degrees for 12-14 minutes .
  • Place them between two burger buns. Serve them with your choice of sauce and then some fresh vegetables like cucumber, onions, Tomatoes and some herbs and salad leaves. I served them with some Home made Mustard sauce.,

Notes

Use any other Beans instead of cannellini beans.  Adjust spices as per requirement.
** You can make this gluten free by substituting a gluten-free bread!  As Bread is used here to firm up the burgers.  You can also make it gluten-free by increasing it with cooked Quinoa and potato to firm it up or use eggs around 2.

The post Quinoa and cannellini Bean Burgers appeared first on My Veg Fare.

]]>
https://www.myvegfare.com/quinoa-cannellini-bean-burgers/feed/ 13
Chakotha soppu (Mountain Spinach Yogurt gravy) Majjigehuli / Morkuzhambu https://www.myvegfare.com/chakotha-soppu-mountain-spinach-yogurt-gravy-majjigehuli-morkuzhambu/ https://www.myvegfare.com/chakotha-soppu-mountain-spinach-yogurt-gravy-majjigehuli-morkuzhambu/#comments Thu, 08 Jun 2017 21:00:28 +0000 http://wpsite.in/myvf/?post_type=recipe&p=2848 Healthy eating is a way of life, so it's important to establish routines that are simple, realistically, and ultimately - Arthur Agatston Eating greens are something I love, At least weekly thrice I use different greens in my cooking.  when I was in India, I used to use greens every day!  But, In India you get...

Read More

The post Chakotha soppu (Mountain Spinach Yogurt gravy) Majjigehuli / Morkuzhambu appeared first on My Veg Fare.

]]>
Healthy eating is a way of life, so it's important to establish routines that are simple, realistically, and ultimately - Arthur Agatston

Mountain spinach yogurt based gravy

Eating greens are something I love, At least weekly thrice I use different greens in my cooking.  when I was in India, I used to use greens every day!  But, In India you get so many different varieties as I am in India right now I will try and introduce all the greens I used to use back in those days when I used to live here.  I miss them so much especially my hubby! Every day I used to just cook one of the varieties with a dash of salt and serve him!

This boy used to bring different kinds of greens in a big tokari / Butti (Basket oven with jute) tied to a cycle and a big wet cloth on top of it so the greens remain fresh until he sells everything!  He used to hang a bottle of water to the handle and sprinkle water now and then to keep it fresh.  Some of them use Gonicheela (Go-ni-chee-la) made with jute! Which stays wet for a long time and keeps the greens fresh.  My favourite which he always used to get me was Gongkura or Gonkura!

Mountain Spinach yogurt gravy

 

Today I am introducing you to these beautiful greens called Chakothne or Chakkotha spelled as Cha-ko-th-ne and Soppu spelt as so-oppu!!  Soppu means Greens!  I tried searching for an English name for this and the nearest I have come to is – It’s called Mountain Spinach! When I read the Wikipedia article I thought it might be the same!  Anyways If you are in Karnataka try this green and I am sure you will love it.

Chakothne soppu or Mountain spinach are very low in calories and fats.  Its leaves hold a good amount of soluble dietary fiber.  It is rich in Nutrients like Vitamin – K, C, E, B Minerals – Iron, Calcium, Potassium, and Magnesium.

Mountain spinach yogurt gravy

Mountain spinach yogurt based gravy
Print

Chakothne soppu (Mountain Spinach Yogurt gravy) Majjigehuli / Morkuzhambu

The greens in this Yogurt gravy is so delicious and goes very well with rice or Raagi Mudde ( Finger Millet Balls)
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 4

Ingredients

  • 1 Big Bunch Chakkotha / Chakkothne (Mountain Spinach)
  • 2 cups slightly Soured thick Yogurt (curd)

Ingredients to Grind

  • 3 tbsp channa dal soaked
  • 3 numbers Green chillies
  • 3 number Dry Red Chillies
  • 1 tbsp coriander seeds (optional)
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated coconut
  • 1/4 cup Chopped coriander leaves ( 5 sprigs)
  • 1/4 cup water

seasonings

  • 2 tsp coconut oil (or any other oil)

Instructions

  • First, you need to soak channa dal for at least an hour.
  • Meanwhile remove the thick hardy stem from the greens in the stalk below and rest of them give a good rinse thoroughly so there is no mud or sand stuck to them.
  • Then chop the greens finely and Cook the greens in ½ cup of water. I use my pressure cooker and cook the greens up to two whistles. You can also cook in a thick bottomed container but then you need to keep an eye on it and keep adding water as you don’t want it get stuck to the bottom while cooking as the water evaporates steadily.
  • Grind ingredients mentioned under the Ingredients to grind to a smooth paste using the water mentioned in the list.
  • Once the Greens are cooked take them in a thick bottomed container with the water to this add the ground smooth paste, mix well, and allow it to boil. This helps in masala getting absorbed into the greens and the raw smell of the masala disappears.
  • Just keep an eye keep stirring now and then as it starts to thicken add extra water if needed probably ¼ cup or so then it won’t get stuck to the bottom. The Dal and coconut helps in thickening quickly, so don’t forget to monitor after 5 to 8 minutes add required amount of salt.
  • Beat the curd/yogurt, reduce the flame to sim pour it to the cooking greens masala mix well and allow it cook for few more minutes keep stirring. If you cook in a medium flame you need to keep an eye on the yogurt gravy if it boils too much the yogurt splits!!
  • To monitor this, you can notice small bubbles forming at the edge of the container that is when you switch of the stove and place it on to a heat resisting mat. If you leave it on the stove the heat of the stove may curdle the gravy and the real consistency of the Majjige huli will disappear.

Notes

Don’t use too sour curds.
Don’t forget to monitor the gravy when it is cooking after you add yogurt.
I have used a just ¼ cup of coconut you can use more and reduce the quantity of channa dal to ½ the quantity mentioned above.
You can use a combination of both the chilies or just use any one of them. Preferably green chilies are used.  If having health problems like IBS wherein you are allowed to use green chilies use dry red chilies.
You can substitute it with spinach as well.
Check this post for different kind of vegetables I use to make Majjige Huli / Morkuzhambu and don’t forget to check the Notes.

The post Chakotha soppu (Mountain Spinach Yogurt gravy) Majjigehuli / Morkuzhambu appeared first on My Veg Fare.

]]>
https://www.myvegfare.com/chakotha-soppu-mountain-spinach-yogurt-gravy-majjigehuli-morkuzhambu/feed/ 2
Nuchinunde ( Undehuli) - Steamed Lentil Dumplings / Vegan and Gluten Free https://www.myvegfare.com/nuchinunde-undehuli-steamed-lentil-dumplings-vegan-and-gluten-free/ https://www.myvegfare.com/nuchinunde-undehuli-steamed-lentil-dumplings-vegan-and-gluten-free/#comments Thu, 01 Sep 2016 01:41:42 +0000 http://wpsite.in/myvf/?p=2491 Nucchinunde or Nuchinunde is one of the karnataka style Hebbar Iyengar authentic recipe which is gluten free, vegan and zero oil delicacy! It is made with dal steamed to perfection like a dal steamed pakora! I usually make it with sweet kozukottai, during Ganesh Chaturthi and Naga panchami. If you are looking a protein rich...

Read More

The post Nuchinunde ( Undehuli) - Steamed Lentil Dumplings / Vegan and Gluten Free appeared first on My Veg Fare.

]]>
Nucchinunde or Nuchinunde is one of the karnataka style Hebbar Iyengar authentic recipe which is gluten free, vegan and zero oil delicacy! It is made with dal steamed to perfection like a dal steamed pakora! I usually make it with sweet kozukottai, during Ganesh Chaturthi and Naga panchami. If you are looking a protein rich recipe, this is it! It is highly nutritious and can be eaten just like that without a side dish.  It is so flavourful and a meal in itself.  Make it spicy its simply delicious.

Nuchinunde

It is also called Unde Huli! Nucchinunde always brings me a lot of old memories,  my memories are always entwined with my Maternal aunt (my periamma) but not with my grandmother!!   This is something you cannot find in a restaurant it is just purely Homemade.  Sometimes Amma (mom) would make it for our after school snack.

I customorly make it during Neeru thumba habba during Diwali, the first day of Deepavali with sweet kozhukottai which is a tradition I follow from my Ajji!

Wonder why is it called Nuchina unde?

It is very simple in Kannada Nucchu means Broken and  Unde means Ball.  Nucchu (Broken) can be of anything !!.

Why another name Unde Huli then?

This spicy ball is also used in making Majjige Huli (spicy Yogurt gravy) and can also be added in Khuzmbu/sambar.  It is a very delicious dumpling.

when can we eat this? 

You can have it for breakfast /Lunch / Dinner, highly nutritious and protein-packed as well, You can even send it in Lunchboxes what more can you ask for :).

How can we eat this?

You can just eat it without any sides or you can make coconut chutney to go with it, also with any kind of tart plain gojju, I will post the recipe soon. I just love munching on it, without any sides.

Do we have to use the same measurements?

It is very versatile you can change the ingredients your liking, I usually mix all the three dals.  It is usually made with more Tuvar dal and less channa dal, urad dal, and moong dal is not used! But, I love using all of them to make it more nutritious.

What else can we add not add to this recipe?

You can add different greens here I have used Dill and Ponnanganni keerai (Sessile Joyweed).  Dill leaves are the commonly used you can also use mint, fenugreek, coriander and also can use chopped Onions with coriander and curry leaves, Now with all the things I have told you definitely know this is going to be very tasty.
So, it means you can add all these! don't add spinach, amaranth those kind of greens.

Is it healthy?
Off course it is highly nutritious and a completely protein packed food.  Here we are using... Legumes / pulses / Lentils
1. Toor / Tuvar / piegeon pea - split Piegeon peas is a yellow lentil
2. Channa Dal / Bengal gram Dal - split black chickpeas that have skin removed
3. Urad Dal
4. Moong Dal / Yellow gram Dal - split green gram

This recipe is :
#Vegan and Gluten free
# Can be served as a starter
# fasting ( farsan) recipe
# Party or tea time snack
# Pantry staple ingredients

Nuchinunde

 


Nuchinunde (Steamed Lentil Dumplings)

Cuisine : Indian
Recipe Author : Jayasri
Recipe Type: Breakfast/ Lunch
Prep Time : Soak time (3 to 4 Hrs) and 30 minutes
Cook Time : 15 minutes
Shelf Time : one-day


Ingredients:
Tuvar Dal 1 Cup
Channa Dal 1/3 cup
Urad Dal 1/4 cup
Moong Dal 1/4 cup
Dill leaves 1/4 bunch ( around 1/2 cup)
OR
Ponnangani Keerai ( around 1/2 cup)
few sprigs of coriander leaf
one sprig of curry leaves
one inch Ginger
6 to 7 Green chillies
salt to taste
Asafoetida / Hing 1/8 tsp
Chopped coconut pieces

Method:

Wash and soak all the Dals. You can soak the dals separately or together for at least 2 to 3 hours.

Once soaked drain all the dals for some 10  to 20 minutes so there is no water left.

Clean all the greens thoroughly with water 3 to 4 times so, there is no impurities left, chop them up finely.   Green chilies and ginger as well.

Grind the Dals in a mixer coarsely with green chilies and ginger and a little coconut.   Grinding Dals properly is very important don't forget they need to grinded COARSELY they should be grinded as we do for Ambode ( Chatambade / channa dal vada)

Check my NOTES FOR MY TIPS

Nuchinunde
In a large bowl take the coarsely ground dal with the chopped greens, salt and Hing.
Mix them all together with some more chopped coconuts.
Make small oval-shaped balls out of it and steam them in an Idli cooker or place them on Idli moulds and steam in a cooker for 15 minutes without the weight in a medium flame.

Nuchinunde
Once done take them out serve them with coconut chutney or with a dollop of ghee.

Notes:
Don't forget, to grind the Dals coarsely. I usually take little quantity of the dals grind then first with green chillies, ginger and coconut to a paste, take it out and grind the dals in 2 to 3 parts in little pulses like a quick turn of the knob  2 to 3 times in my Mixie Jar which grinds to a corase consistency that way!
When making for festivals make as said in the recipe above you can omit Onions, garlic and Ponnangani Keerai.
You can just add coriander, curry leaves, and coconut without any other greens
You can also add chopped veggies to make it more inviting for kids!!
You can add onions, garlic, ginger, coriander and curry leaves.

Nuchiunde is made with only Tuvar Dal. But you can always use any dals in different variations.

You can add this in Majjige Huli ( Yogurt gravy) or in Sambhar and call it Unde Huli (Parup Urandai sambar), which is dumpling in Sambhar.

Nuchinunde

Hope you enjoy making this for the festival...

Print

Nuchinunde ( Undehuli) - Steamed Lentil Dumplings / Vegan and Gluten Free

A very healthy and nutritious, protein packed steamed Lentil dumplings which are spicy and tasty with loads of flavours
Course Breakfast/Brunch/Lunch
Cuisine Indian
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 18
Author Jayasri

Ingredients

  • Tuvar Dal 1 Cup
  • Channa Dal 1/3 cup
  • Urad Dal 1/4 cup
  • Moon Dal 1/4 cup
  • Dill leaves 1/4 bunch around 1/2 cup
  • OR
  • Ponnangani Keerai around 1/2 cup
  • few sprigs of coriander leaves
  • one sprig of curry leaves
  • one inch Ginger
  • 6 to 7 Green chillies
  • salt to taste
  • Asafoetida / Hing 1/8 tsp
  • Chopped coconut pieces

Instructions

  • Wash and soak all the Dals. Drain all the dals for some 10 minutes so there is no water, Clean all the greens chop them up, green chillies and ginger as well.
  • Grind the Dals in a mixer coarsely with green chillies and ginger and little coconut.
  • In a large bowl take the coarsely ground dal with the chopped greens, salt and Hing.
  • Mix them all together with some more chopped coconuts.
  • Make small oval shaped balls out of it and steam them in a Idli cooker or place them on Idli moulds and steam in a cooker for 15 minutes without the weight in a medium flame.
  • Once done take them out serve it with coconut chutney or with a dollop of ghee.

Notes

Notes:
When making for festivals make as said in the recipe above you can omit Ponnangani Keerai.
You can just add coriander, curry leaves and coconut.
You can also add chopped veggies make it more inviting for kids!!
Don't forget, grind the Dals coarsely.
Usually Nuchiunde is made with only Tuvar Dal. But you can always use any dals in different variations.
You can add this in Majji ge Huli ( Yogurt gravy) or in Sambhar and call it Unde Huli, that is dumpling in Sambhar.

 

The post Nuchinunde ( Undehuli) - Steamed Lentil Dumplings / Vegan and Gluten Free appeared first on My Veg Fare.

]]>
https://www.myvegfare.com/nuchinunde-undehuli-steamed-lentil-dumplings-vegan-and-gluten-free/feed/ 17
watermelon and Tomato salad https://www.myvegfare.com/watermelon-and-tomato-salad/ https://www.myvegfare.com/watermelon-and-tomato-salad/#comments Sun, 14 Aug 2016 06:33:56 +0000 http://wpsite.in/myvf/?p=2455 “Every salad you serve is a picture you have painted, a sculpture you have modeled, a drama you have created.” ― Carol Truax, The art of salad making Life has been very busy these days, I never relax during holidays it's because  I visit India during our summer vacation.  I would loads of errands to...

Read More

The post watermelon and Tomato salad appeared first on My Veg Fare.

]]>
“Every salad you serve is a picture you have painted, a sculpture you have modeled, a drama you have created.”
Carol Truax, The art of salad making

Pies-tarts-pizzas-1-4

Life has been very busy these days, I never relax during holidays it's because  I visit India during our summer vacation.  I would loads of errands to complete during my visit and I usually running around doing things.  The only thing I don't do is cooking and baking.  Most of the time it's my Mum, sisters, or my relatives and friends who do it for me as I visit them.  I miss Britain during summer as I love it there! It's because  for a lot of reasons  like the Sun, Flowers, Greenery, and the best of everything is my Garden.  I  love gardening and growing my own veggies, fruits, herbs, and flowers are my favourite hobby.

breakfast-1-2

I will share you some of my Garden plants in my next post, hubby was telling me that there is a heat wave next two weeks and it's going to be very very hot, hope my plants survive the blazing sun rays.

Pies-tarts-pizzas-1-9

When it's hot or even warm I love to eat more fruits especially fruits with a lot of water content as its going to keep me hydrated.  My kitchen gets too hot during summer because of the conservatory and I don't like spending too much time standing there!! Nothing wrong right?

Pies-tarts-pizzas-1-11

Every summer reminds me of Indian summer, I go through my memory lane thinking about what I used to relish during those hot summer months, what my parents used to give me to eat ? what were my food habits ? (monitored by my parents, even today they keep advising me what to eat and what not to eat!) Most Indian food habits are usually blended with Ayurveda an alternative to our regular Medicine.  Even doctors here tend to introduce you to Ayurvedic way of food habits!  Ayurveda is an age old way of treating ailments with herbs, roots, and other natural resources available. Ayurvedic way of treating depends on the doshas (Vata, pitta, Kapha) the three elements which balance in good health and any imbalance leads to diseases!  Most Indian houses adapt to simple home remedies and treat common diseases with minimal ingredients found in our masala

breakfast-1

Ayurveda is an age old way of treating ailments with herbs, roots, and other natural resources available. Ayurvedic way of treating depends on the doshas (Vata, pitta, Kapha) the three elements which balance in good health and any imbalance leads to diseases!  Most Indian houses adapt to simple home remedies and treat common diseases with minimal ingredients found in our masala dabbas and these shops (Grandhige Angadi) which sell the roots and seeds used in ayurvedic treatments.

Pies-tarts-pizzas-1-7

I am used to and still use lot of things from my kitchen pantry as my medicines to deal with common cold, cough, headaches and tend to understand the way my body feels and adapt it in my food habits.  As I wouldn't drink lot of water, my mom always made sure I ate lot of fruits and vegetables which had lot of water content in it,  she always made loads of salads for us to enjoy when we came back from school and still today I enjoy these salads which have minimal ingredients and still tastes awesome.

Pies-tarts-pizzas-1-10


Watermelon and Tomato salad ( Juicy Tomatoes and sweet Watermelon in a mild spice and sweet dressing)
Cuisine : Indian
Recipe Type : Salad
Prep time : 10 minutes
Cook time : None
Serves : 4
Shelf time : Best served fresh or chill can chill and serve
Recipe Author: Jayasri


Ingredients:

3 Cups of chopped Watermelon
1 to 2 cups of Tomatoes
2 tbsp of Sugar / honey / maple syrup depending on sweetness*
1/2 tsp salt as required*
1 to 2 tsp Black Pepper crushed coarsely as required
1 or 2 tbsp of Mint leaves (optional)

*Check Notes

Method:

Chop Watermelon into cubes using just the red portion of it, try and deseed as much as possible too much into it will give out a lot of juice and makes the fruit crumbled or mushy!
I have used assorted Tomatoes as I get it here, But you can just fresh juicy tomatoes which you can find in Indian markets.
I have used sugar here  with  salt and pepper (check my notes)
Take the fruits in a bowl toss them with the spices listed, serve it fresh or serve it chilled.
You can add mint if desired.

Notes:

You can serve it as an Accompaniment or just as a salad
You can use only sugar or only salt and pepper
It was important to use salt and pepper during summer as watermelon sometimes would cause cold to some people, Black Pepper has heat in it ( In ayurveda black pepper wards of cold) helps in warding off cold.

You can even add Yogurt/ Curds and enjoy it.

Enjoy this really delicious summer salad, It not only keeps you hydrated and makes you feel fresh.

The post watermelon and Tomato salad appeared first on My Veg Fare.

]]>
https://www.myvegfare.com/watermelon-and-tomato-salad/feed/ 12
Cold Beetroot Soup https://www.myvegfare.com/cold-beetroot-soup/ https://www.myvegfare.com/cold-beetroot-soup/#comments Mon, 02 May 2016 02:30:43 +0000 http://wpsite.in/myvf/?p=2335 But since soup mainly involves tossing everything in a pot and waiting, it's one of my better dishes -Suzanne Collins, The Hunger Games Don't wonder why I am posting a cold soup when we still have chilled winter days here, as of my last post when we had that beautiful day the saga continued,  I...

Read More

The post Cold Beetroot Soup appeared first on My Veg Fare.

]]>
But since soup mainly involves tossing everything in a pot and waiting, it's one of my better dishes
-Suzanne Collins, The Hunger Games

Beetroot soup

Don't wonder why I am posting a cold soup when we still have chilled winter days here, as of my last post when we had that beautiful day the saga continued,  I needed something cold to eat as well, I did quite a lot shoots that week, as I went crazy when I saw the sun!

Beetroot

After long day's work in the garden, I didn't want to spend too much time in the kitchen.  I wanted to fix something quickly.  When I stood in my refrigerator my mind went blank!  kidding! my mind was blank because I hadn't made up my mind about what to cook ?  Let me make a one pot meal with rice dump everything in my cooker and that's it! My daughter came down and said make some soup mom as we have some French Bread.  So, Ok!  I know what to make,  next is which vegetable or any other ingredient? That's when I saw these bunch of Beetroots I had, actually loads of them!  I decided on making a Beetroot soup but didn't want to have it hot so decided on making it cold.  I had been chopping and trimming all my plants, I have a Bay leaf tree and a Kaffir Lime tree you must have noticed it in my last post, I used them to decorate my styling :), I used those fresh cut leaves in my soup.

Beetroot soup

 

This soup was so delicious for the weather, it had some sweetness and it is very easy to make.  It might not be everybody's cup of tea if you like beetroot you might like this.  But, it went so very well with my bread I had 2 cups of it, I had some left over which I had it in my fridge next day hubby came home and had it.  He loved it too.

If you try this and like it share it with me, I would love to hear from you...,

Cold Beetroot Soup or Chilled Beetroot Soup

Beetroot soup

Recipe Author: Jayasri
Recipe Type: Soups
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Serves : 4
Shelf time: 2 days

Ingredients:

3 Medium Sized Beetroots
1'' Ginger
3 Garlic cloves
4 Kaffir Lime Leaves
2 Cups thick Yogurt
2 to 3 tbsp Cre'me Fraiche (optional)
4 to 5 tbsp Chopped Chives/Coriander
1 tbsp Cumin seeds
2 to 3 Bay Leaves
4 Cloves
2 tsp Black pepper

Method:

Wash, Peel and chop Beetroots. Roast Cumin seeds and pepper until the cumins crackle.
In a pressure cooker take chopped Beetroots, peeled Garlic cloves, Kaffir lime leaves, Bay leaves, roasted cumin, roasted Black pepper and cloves.
Steam them all in 1 cup of water for 3 whistles.
Once cool discard  the Bay leaves and Kaffir lime leaves and rest put them in a blender and blend them into a smooth paste.
Add another half cup of water if needed when blending them into a smooth puree, to this add 2 cups of yogurt and salt blend well together.
If you want it thick and creamier add more yogurt or add water  to make it slightly semi liquidy.

Season it with pepper and salt if  you need, serve it with chopped chives or cilantro, I used chives and oven roasted crispy Kale and some croutons and some Cre'me Fraiche before serving.

Beetroot soup

Notes:

This soup is on a bit sweeter side because of the beetroots, even if you seasoned more with peppercorns it really doesn't help much, I would just say, have it as it is, with a tolerable seasoning and enjoy it as it is.If you don't find Kaffir lime leaves you can substitute with one tbsp of lemon juice or just omit it from the recipe

Beetroot soup
Print

Cold Beetroot Soup

Beetroot soup served chilled or cold is delicious during summer for a cooling tummy and also yummy to enjoy this one quick to make recipe.
Course Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch box
Cuisine International
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 4
Author Jayasri

Ingredients

  • 3 Medium Sized Beetroots
  • 1 '' Ginger
  • 3 Garlic cloves
  • 4 Kaffir Lime Leaves
  • 2 Cups thick Yogurt
  • 2 to 3 tbsp Cre'me Fraiche optional
  • 4 to 5 tbsp Chopped Chives/Coriander
  • 1 tbsp Cumin seeds
  • 2 to 3 Bay Leaves
  • 4 Cloves
  • 2 tsp Black pepper

Instructions

  • Wash, Peel and chop Beetroots. Roast Cumin seeds and pepper until the cumins crackle.
  • In a pressure cooker take chopped Beetroots, peeled Garlic cloves, Kaffir lime leaves, Bay leaves, roasted cumin, roasted Black pepper and cloves.
  • Steam them all in 1 cup of water for 3 whistles.
  • Once cool discard the Bay leaves and Kaffir lime leaves and rest put them in a blender and blend them into a smooth paste.
  • Add another half cup of water if needed when blending them into a smooth puree, to this add 2 cups of yogurt and salt blend well together.
  • If you want it thick and creamier add more yogurt or add water to make it slightly semi liquidy.
  • Season it with pepper and salt if you need, serve it with chopped chives or cilantro, I used chives and oven roasted crispy Kale and some croutons and some Cre'me Fraiche before serving.

Notes

This soup is on a bit sweeter side because of the beetroots, even if you seasoned more with peppercorns it really doesn't help much, I would just say, have it as it is, with a tolerable seasoning and enjoy it as it is.
If you don't find Kaffir lime leaves you can substitute with one tbsp of lemon juice or just omit it from the recipe

 

 

The post Cold Beetroot Soup appeared first on My Veg Fare.

]]>
https://www.myvegfare.com/cold-beetroot-soup/feed/ 7
Avocado and Spring Onion Grilled Cheese Sandwich https://www.myvegfare.com/avocado-and-spring-onion-grilled-cheese-sandwich/ https://www.myvegfare.com/avocado-and-spring-onion-grilled-cheese-sandwich/#comments Wed, 02 Dec 2015 11:38:43 +0000 http://wpsite.in/myvf/?p=2138 Sandwiches are wonderful you don’t need a spoon or a plate – Paul Lynde It’s already 2nd of December yeah! That’s right, days just fly off like I said yesterday.  I can’t write something like my mother used to bake bread or how I loved my sandwiches in my Lunch Box.  Very rarely I used...

Read More

The post Avocado and Spring Onion Grilled Cheese Sandwich appeared first on My Veg Fare.

]]>
Sandwiches are wonderful you don’t need a spoon or a plate – Paul Lynde

Avocado Spring onion Grilled Cheese Sandwich

It’s already 2nd of December yeah! That’s right, days just fly off like I said yesterday.  I can’t write something like my mother used to bake bread or how I loved my sandwiches in my Lunch Box.  Very rarely I used to take bread sandwich, actually I can’t even rememberJ.  The only thing I can remember of Bread is 2 things one is Jam / sugar sandwiched bread toasts and just bread toasts with my milk / coffee when I used to fall sick.  The Milk breads which we used to get in Bangalore were really tasty.  Have you ever tried my Milk bread you should give it a go.

Avocado spring onion grilled sandwich

When my kids started going to school, I used to give them sandwiches sometimes, they always loved it with Butter and Jam (Toast with butter and Sandwich with Jam)!  As they used to take Indian food in their lunch Box which they loved.   But they were all bygone days, soon as they started refusing to take Indian food in their lunch box.  The most they were ready to take was Indian flat breads (Chapatis /parathas).  They said they wanted something to hold in their hand and eat as they had no proper place to sit and eat or they would say they had no time to have a relaxed lunch break, well as they grow up they start giving me  reasons as they want their way.  In the beginning, I was worried then started looking for healthy breads to make sandwiches and started exploring new ingredients to sandwich between them.  Not just that until they finished their schooling every week I used to bake my own bread at least twice, they loved home baked breads as well.

Avocado spring onion grilled sandwich

This filling has always been one of our favourite, Each and every time when I send this bread toast I get texts from my hubby and children after their lunch break that it was awesome.  A filling which hearty healthy and a wholesome either as your breakfast or for your lunch box.

Avocado and Spring Onion Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Author: Jayasri
Recipe type: Breakfast / Lunch Box
Cuisine: International

Avocado spring onion grilled sandwich

Ingredients:
2 Avocado
1 Bunch Spring Onion
1 medium sized red onion/ Bombay onions
1 Large Green Capsicum
1 or 2 Green chillies finely chopped (optional)
½ tbsp. of Chilli flakes
1 and ½ tsp salt (as required)
1 or 2 tbsp of Lemon Juice
Any herbs of your choice
(Coriander leaves, parsley, chives, Basil anything you like)

Avocado spring onion grilled sandwich

Method:
Remove the skin from the Avocadoes and chop them into pieces, wash spring onions and chop into fine pieces, the same goes to capsicum and onions chop it finely as well.  Chop green chilies if using or use chili flakes and required salt, squeeze a tbsp of lemon juice.

Mash them a little bit mix them all together, just they all combine well together to this add finely chopped herb of your choice (I used coriander leaves). Combine them all well together and keep it aside for few minutes.

Avocado spring onion grilled sandwich

Take Bread of your choice butter it put the filling and some cheese on it and grill the sandwich for a wonderful aromatic Grilled sandwich.

You can make it VEGAN by not using Cheese.

Avocado spring onion grilled sandwich

Print

Avocado and Spring Onion Grilled Cheese Sandwich

A wholesome hearty and healthy meal in itself for a good start of the day or for a filling and tasty Lunch Box
Course Breakfast / Lunch Box
Cuisine International
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Author Jayasri

Ingredients

  • 2 Avocado
  • 1 Bunch Spring Onion
  • 1 medium sized red onion/ Bombay onions
  • 1 Large Green Capsicum
  • 1 or 2 Green chillies finely chopped optional
  • ½ tbsp. of Chilli flakes
  • 1 and ½ tsp salt as required
  • 1 or 2 tbsp of Lemon Juice
  • Any herbs of your choice
  • Coriander leaves, parsley, chives, Basil anything you like

Instructions

  • Remove the skin from the Avocadoes and chop them into pieces, wash spring onions and chop into fine pieces, the same goes to capsicum and onions chop it finely as well. Chop green chilies if using or use chili flakes required amount of salt and squeeze tbsp. of lemon juice.
  • Mash them a little bit mix them all together, just they all combine well together to this add finely chopped herb of your choice (I used coriander leaves). Combine them all well together and keep it aside for few minutes.
  • Take Bread of your choice butter it put the filling and some cheese on it and grill the sandwich for a wonderful aromatic Grilled sandwich.

Notes

You can use this to sandwich around 1 pound of bread

 

The post Avocado and Spring Onion Grilled Cheese Sandwich appeared first on My Veg Fare.

]]>
https://www.myvegfare.com/avocado-and-spring-onion-grilled-cheese-sandwich/feed/ 4
Vegan Samphire with Roast Potatoes and Peas salad https://www.myvegfare.com/samphire-with-roast-potatoes-and-peas-salad/ https://www.myvegfare.com/samphire-with-roast-potatoes-and-peas-salad/#comments Sat, 16 May 2015 19:56:03 +0000 http://wpsite.in/myvf/?p=1951 Do you love cooking? how about cooking with your friends? I do, unfortunately, it's only virtual but still we enjoy this how about you? don't you want to  see what we all have been doing in our kitchen! Cooking With Friends: This blog post is part of the monthly “Cooking With Friends” themed blog post...

Read More

The post Vegan Samphire with Roast Potatoes and Peas salad appeared first on My Veg Fare.

]]>
samphire and potatoes

Do you love cooking? how about cooking with your friends? I do, unfortunately, it's only virtual but still we enjoy this how about you? don't you want to  see what we all have been doing in our kitchen!

Cooking With Friends: This blog post is part of the monthly “Cooking With Friends” themed blog post challenge. This challenge was started by a bunch of virtual friends united by their love of food, with the aim of tackling a different food related theme each month. If you want to try this month’s theme, please feel free to do so and link your recipe in the comments section. We’d love to check it out. Meanwhile, check out what the others in the group have come up with this month.

Anjana from At the Corner of Happy and Harried, Garima from CafeGarima, Jyothi from Curry Tail, Madhuri from MADaboutkitchen, Subhasmita from The Flavors of Kitchen, and Sujatha from Spice n Treats, Dolphia from Story  of Cooks

When we decided to cook something with a vegetable which we have never used before, so, what’s next step, off to the market, I took my daughter to a nearby supermarket. We went through the aisles, my daughter said that it's going to be tough day and said we should have gone to some gourmet shops, wherein I might find something, I am not boasting I promise, I literally have cooked every vegetable from the supermarkets here, I should thank Mr.R for this, anything new he sees he brings it home, he loves to try every vegetable.  As we were walking through the aisles my eyes fell on this sea vegetable, I had been eyeing it from a long time but never bought it. I think there were two reasons for this, firstly, I didn’t know what I was going to make out of it so I left it alone for when I thought of something, and secondly for just around 100g it was too expensive, so, I never had a chance of tasting it and didn’t know if my family liked it or not I didn’t want to take a risk.

samphire and potatoes

But, all this said, it was a challenge I had to put myself in to see how it goes, not with the cooking but I mean with how I am going to make my family eat it.  My girl had more ideas when I was unsure, she said let’s buy it Amma (mum), go home and taste it, on the packet it says salty and goes well with fish, only we can’t eat fish we will use this with potatoes, shrugging her shoulders she went on saying, anything with Potatoes we can push it, (we were thinking of my twins who are a slightly difficult to please that they would enjoy it more if I am going to serve it this way), After tasting it if we find it not interesting we will bin it and not tell Dad about it, keep it  a secret between us.  We were giggling away, have I ever told you my daughter is my best mate, we share so many things not as mother and daughter but as friends, we have almost similar interests and enjoy exploring lots of things together.  So I came back home with the Samphire packet, ripped it open and tasted it, the packet said it was salty, but it wasn’t as bad as we were imagining, so we were not going to bin it! Now I had the task of having to think what I have to make with it.

I have joined these group of bloggers who are such a bunch of wonderful people, they just don't blog recipes but amazing photographs as well.   I planned to post this yesterday, when I started getting updates on my mobile, I lost track of the time, because I got so carried away with their lovely photographs, I got a bit depressed that I have such a long way to go learning this beautiful and colourful world of photography, but also inspired to try harder and make more time and use of the long summer days ahead! Check out their blogs for beautiful photography and interesting recipes.

samphire

Samphire according to Wikipedia is  Originally "sampiere", a corruption of the French "Saint Pierre" (Saint Peter),[2] samphire was named after the patron saint of fishermen because all of the original plants with its name grow in rocky salt-sprayed regions along the sea coast of northern Europe or in its coastal marsh areas. It is sometimes called sea asparagus or sea pickle. In Norfolk, it is commonly called sampha [sam-fa]. In North Wales, especially along the River Dee's marshes, it has always been known as sampkin.

All the plants bearing the name are annuals that begin growing in late autumn and vegetate throughout the winter until the first warm weather arrives. Then the first stems and internodes form, and by mid-spring the plant measures 6 to 8 cm.
Marsh samphire ashes were used to make soap and glass (hence its other old English name, "glasswort") In the 14th century glassmakers located their workshops near regions where this plant grew, since it was so closely linked to their trade. Samphires of all kinds have long been eaten in England. The leaves were gathered early in the year and pickled or eaten in salads with oil and vinegar. It is mentioned by Shakespeare in King Lear:
Halfway down Hangs one that gathers samphire; dreadful trade! (Act IV, Scene VI). This refers to the dangers involved in collecting rock samphire on sea cliffs.

Collecting Information through Googling I have found these tidbits which might be useful if you are going to use it in your kitchen, it is said that it is gaining more popularity in England now and is available in all supermarkets
Types:  There are two types of Samphire available; Marsh (salicornia europaea) and Rock (crithmum maitimum) but Marsh is the one which is more widely used.
Taste:  it is salty and crispy
Availability:  best to buy during July and August
How to use it: It is best to buy fresh and won’t stay for long, wash thoroughly before using it, and can be eaten raw, if not cook it in a pot of boiling water for just 2 to 3 minutes and use it or steam over a pot of boiling water for a few minutes.
If you are interested and know more about this sea vegetable check out this link, you have lots information available. Coming back to the recipe, this is how I used it, do try it out and tell me if you liked it.

samphire and Potatoes

Ingredients:
100g - Samphire
7 to 8– potatoes *
1 cup – Peas *
2 tsp freshly crushed Black Pepper
1 tbsp of oil
2 Garlic pods
Few sprigs of parsley and mint
Salt as required
*(Check notes)

Method
Peel and cut potatoes and pressure cook them for a whistle or drop them in boiling water until it is cooked Al Dante as we don’t want them becoming mushy or you can roast them in the oven for 30 to 45 minutes until well done (if cooking them in the oven sprinkle some oil and salt and bake them)
Wash Samphire thoroughly in cold water, take it in a vessel and boiling water and close the lid for 5 minutes. Drain it and leave it aside.
Cook peas in a microwave until done and set aside. Chop onion and garlic finely.
Once potatoes are cooled down cut them into medium sized cubes, so now all your ingredients are ready let’s start…
In a large wok heat oil, once sufficiently heated, add a tsp of cumin seeds, then add onion and garlic, sauté well and add the potatoes. After few minutes sprinkle some salt and fry until golden brown.
When it’s nearly done add the cooked peas, cooked samphire and stir fry for few minutes until well combined. Add little more salt and crushed black pepper, taste it and adjust the spice. Add a tsp of butter(optional), chopped mint and parsley to garnish, give it a minute and mix again so the aroma of the herbs get infused into the veggies. That’s it done.

samphire and potatoes

 SERVING SUGGESTIONS:
You can just eat it like that, otherwise you can serve it like me I served it with cooked Basmati Rice or eat it with toasted Bread and butter or grilled with cheese and some salad Tomatoes.
NOTES:
You can use normal potatoes or roasting potatoes which can retain their shape or use new potatoes which are good for roasting.
I have used frozen peas, you can use fresh peas it would be tastier
I have just used pepper for spiciness, you can try using dried chilles or green chillies or any kind of spice like any Mediterranean spices, I wanted to keep it more British so just added crushed pepper.

Print

Samphire with Roast Potatoes and Peas salad

This dish is a fantastic summer salad both in flavours and looks Salty Samphire makes its appearance with a new avatar mildly spicy and delicious, serve with yogurt
Course Dinner / Breakfast /
Cuisine British
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Author Jayasri

Ingredients

  • 100 g - Samphire
  • 7 to 8 – potatoes *
  • 1 cup – Peas *
  • 2 tsp freshly crushed Black Pepper
  • 1 tbsp of oil
  • 2 Garlic pods
  • Few sprigs of parsley and mint
  • Salt as required

Instructions

  • Peel and cut potatoes and pressure cook them for a whistle or drop them in boiling water until it is cooked Al Dante as we don’t want them becoming mushy or you can roast them in the oven for 30 to 45 minutes until well done (if cooking them in the oven sprinkle some oil and salt and bake them)
  • Wash Samphire thoroughly in cold water, take it in a vessel and boiling water and close the lid for 5 minutes. Drain it and leave it aside.
  • Cook peas in a microwave until done and set aside. Chop onion and garlic finely.
  • Once potatoes are cooled down cut them into medium sized cubes, so now all your ingredients are ready let’s start…
  • In a large wok heat oil, once sufficiently heated, add a tsp of cumin seeds, then add onion and garlic, sauté well and add the potatoes. After few minutes sprinkle some salt and fry until golden brown.
  • When it’s nearly done add the cooked peas, cooked samphire and stir fry for few minutes until well combined. Add little more salt and crushed black pepper, taste it and adjust the spice. Add a tsp of butter, chopped mint and parsley to garnish, give it a minute and mix again so the aroma of the herbs get infused into the veggies.
  • That’s it done.

Notes

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:
You can just eat it like that, otherwise you can serve it like me I served it with cooked Basmati Rice or eat it with toasted Bread and butter or grilled with cheese and some salad Tomatoes.
NOTES:
You can use normal potatoes or roasting potatoes which can retain their shape or use new potatoes which are good for roasting.
I have used frozen peas, you can use fresh peas it would be tastier
I have just used pepper for spiciness, you can try using dried chilles or green chillies or any kind of spice like any Mediterranean spices, I wanted to keep it more British so just added crushed pepper.

The post Vegan Samphire with Roast Potatoes and Peas salad appeared first on My Veg Fare.

]]>
https://www.myvegfare.com/samphire-with-roast-potatoes-and-peas-salad/feed/ 8
Chilli Bhajji / Molaga Bhajji / Menasinkaayi Bhajji https://www.myvegfare.com/chilli-bhajji-molaga-bhajji-menasinkaayi-bhajji/ https://www.myvegfare.com/chilli-bhajji-molaga-bhajji-menasinkaayi-bhajji/#comments Tue, 03 Mar 2015 01:12:04 +0000 http://wpsite.in/myvf/?p=1847 Life has been a wee bit busy when kids came for their holidays in December, they did not want to go back at all, that’s what Home is for you.  Its lot of things you get at home, no need to cook, clean, wash etc., they now know what they are missing.  Sometimes I feel...

Read More

The post Chilli Bhajji / Molaga Bhajji / Menasinkaayi Bhajji appeared first on My Veg Fare.

]]>
Life has been a wee bit busy when kids came for their holidays in December, they did not want to go back at all, that’s what Home is for you.  Its lot of things you get at home, no need to cook, clean, wash etc., they now know what they are missing.  Sometimes I feel sad for them but they have become very independent and am proud of them. In between I am trying to build my blog which seems to be taking a lot of my time.  Someday soon I will be completely ready with my site.

Chilli Bhajji

Today is a spicy treat from my veggie garden.  Well, I can’t say if this is everybody’s cup of tea, but if you love spicy food this is definitely a treat. You can also make it spicy or not too spicy if you choose but definitely something you would enjoy with your cup of chai ya coffee.  Most of the food I cook brings back memories which are sometimes nostalgic, some are funny & some bring a warm smile on my face like this one.

 IMG_5624

The  smell of the first rain drops on the soil which I call it the earthy smell, I would run out and inhale the smell it imparts, something nostalgic about it, brings out lots of memories.  When I was a little kid we used to make paper boats & later on when I had my kids I used to make pater boats for them to play with, we used to run  outside in the garden or on to the road, trying to find little streams or where we could see the  water flow so we could sail our boats and enjoy every minute of it, If there was a heavy down pour and our boats drowned or soaked we wouldn't mind or disheartened we would make more boats!,  I know it is bringing back your memories isn’t it ?  Mmmh..

Coleus Aromaticus

Coleus Aromaticus

When I think of all Bhajjis & Bondas it reminds me of all those days in Bangalore, especially when it is monsoon, Ice creams is another delight I used to enjoy when it rained, what a combo.  These days fried snacks are a far away delicacy which I try not to indulge in. I have not been a big fan of fried foods, too much oil & my hunger disappears, I have always been a bit of health conscious not a health freak as I love eating but everything in moderate. I do care about oily food a bit more so deep fried is always a second thought especially when feeding my kids,  Now a days my teenage kids very rarely ask me for fried snacks, they like everything bake

Costus Pictus

Costus Pictus

In Bangalore, I used to live in Gandhi Bazar, there are some famous food joints their. But, all little joints are the best place to eat, have you ever tried? There is a little place at the end on DVG road, under a shop, I don’t know if he is still there, he had a little joint and this man used to make amazing Bondas, Bhajjis, & Masala vadas etc.., I can’t remember what other things he was making but he used to stay just for 2 to 3 hours and it would be so busy.

IMG_5614-2

 

Those are the days which we used to enjoy so much. Once the rain stopped know tor if it was a cold winter evening, eating these was one of my favourite, the most I ate I think was when I was pregnant with my first child, I craved to eat very spicy chilli Bhajjis.  You can see I have made Bhajjis with Doddapatre (Coleus Aromaticus) & Costus Pictus , I don’t know their common names  though , making bajjis you have to follow the same method, This same method you can use in  making  Potato,  Chayote, Ridge Gourd etc..,

 Chilli Bhajji

Print

Chilli Bhajji / Molaga Bhajji / Menasinkaayi Bhajji

Absolutely addictive, spicy and tasty can't stop with one, of course not a healthy treat, as it is deep fried, Vegan, Gluten free.
Course Appetisers, snacks &amp
Cuisine Indian
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Author Jayasri Ravi

Ingredients

  • FOR THE BATTER Tempura Batter
  • 1 Cup Gram flour chick pea flour
  • 1/3 Cup Rice flour
  • 2 tbsp Corn flour
  • 2 tsp Chilli powder*
  • pinch of Asafoetida
  • 2 tbsp hot oil
  • 1 tsp salt*
  • water as needed
  • Oil for deep frying as needed
  • VEGGIES FOR THE BAJJIS
  • 6 to 7 Chilli Bajjis / Banana Peppers
  • 6 to 7 Doddapatre
  • 1 Onion
  • FILLING
  • Grate 1 or 2 Carrots
  • 2 medium sized Onions
  • 3 to 4 sprigs of coriander leaves
  • 1/4 tsp of Chilli powder
  • 1 tsp of Chat masala powder
  • 2 to 3 pinches of salt / or as per taste

Instructions

  • Take all the Ingredients for the batter in a bowl and add water as required, the batter should be in between Dosa (Pancake) & Idli batter consistency, It should not be thin nor thick.
  • I have said hot oil; when you are preparing the batter, heat oil in a pan, take 2 tbsp of this oil when it is hot add this to the batter, this makes the Bhajjis more crispier.
  • Dip the chillis one by one coat it well and drop into the hot oil and fry it to golden colour.
  • The same way wash the leaves wipe clean and dip them in the batter and deep fry.
  • How to make the filling (stuffing) for thesey chillies:
  • Slit open once the bhajjis which have come out of the oil, and drain in on a kitchen towel, Mix all the ingredients from the above said list, check the taste increase or decrease spices as per your preference, fill this filling in the slit open Bhajjis and enjoy.

Notes

Some things to Note:
The coating or the batter consistency is for just 6 to 7 Bhajjis, you can keep increasing the same proportion of ingredients to fry more Bhajjis
Adding Hot oil to the batter makes crispy Bhajjis.
I usually cut an onion in the end to mix with the left over batter which makes crispy pakoras

IMG_5616-2

The post Chilli Bhajji / Molaga Bhajji / Menasinkaayi Bhajji appeared first on My Veg Fare.

]]>
https://www.myvegfare.com/chilli-bhajji-molaga-bhajji-menasinkaayi-bhajji/feed/ 4
Purslane & Kale Fatayer https://www.myvegfare.com/purslane-kale-fatayer/ https://www.myvegfare.com/purslane-kale-fatayer/#comments Mon, 09 Dec 2013 23:55:00 +0000 http://wpsite.in/myvf/?p=7 PURSLANE & KALE FATAYER I came to find out that Fatayer (Lebanese savoury triangular pastries) is a Mediterranean street food, usually made with Purslane (Baqleh) and the one made with spinach called Fatayer bil-sabanegh and she says can be adapted to using any kind of greens we like. I had started thinking what shall I...

Read More

The post Purslane & Kale Fatayer appeared first on My Veg Fare.

]]>
PURSLANE & KALE FATAYER
Purslane Fatayer
I came to find out that Fatayer (Lebanese savoury triangular pastries) is a Mediterranean street food, usually made with Purslane (Baqleh) and the one made with spinach called Fatayer bil-sabanegh and she says can be adapted to using any kind of greens we like.
I had started thinking what shall I bake, I had a busy day from past two days, came home late last night had a terrible headache and I was in no mood to bake anything, My baking or cooking always ends up with my kids coming back from school they come home look for something to eat, they love something like a snack, but I always prefer that they eat well, something healthy, always look for something good for them to gorge.
 
 H got me this plant and I have been trying to protect it now as it is so cold in my conservatory, It grew very well in summer with beautiful leaves but I never used it. I was scared that it might die, this plant is grown everywhere in India it is commonly known as Purslane or Verdolaga, in Tamil it is called Paruppu keerai, in Kannada Dudagorai.  Basically it is a weed grown everywhere in India, It is still used in various cooking ways in India.  I still keeping looking for it everywhere here if I could find a bunch of it, As I was googling through I found out that they are very rich in Omega 3 fatty acids, and they are also rich in vitamin C, they are even used in medicine for treating cancer etc.., etc.., Just Google around to see more information on this plant.
I wasn't sure if I could grow it here, for the weather conditions, it seems Googling I have found out that it will be dormant and grows back, I don't want to take any risk so I keep it in my conservatory, not that it is looking any healthy now, fingers crossed it won't die on me.
I was searching for something new I could cook up from this plant, I was surprised to see a few ways now I can use it not only in the India way of cooking, when searching I found this recipe on Anissa's blog, I was in awe with her photography and loved I could try out something new.
I so found out that middle eastern cookery enjoy this nutritious weed, here is how I made it, I have adapted the recipe very much but tweaked it a little bit, as I did not how much my kids would love it, when ever I prepare something new I use what my kids like and see how it goes and then revert back to the original recipe.., kind of making them comfort with their usual food. This is how I made it...
PURSLANE, KALE, SPINACH, WATER CRESS AND ROCKET  FATAYER
Serves : 4
makes : 12 (depending on the size)
INGREDIENTS:
FOR THE DOUGH
175 grms ( nearly 1 and 1/4 cup) of All purpose Flour
2 tbsp of Garlic Flavoured Extra virgin Olive oil
1/2 tsp salt
Nearly 3/4th cup of water

Purslane
FOR THE FILLING
1/2 Cup of Purslane
2 Cups of Kale
2 medium sized onions
1 Cup of Water Cress, Spinach and Rocket
1 tbsp of Sumac
1 tbsp of Sichuan Pepper
1 tbsp Olive oil
1 tsp salt
Cheese (optional)
 METHOD:
vegetariana pizza

In a bowl take all the Ingredients under For the dough mix them well first, resembles like a crumbled cheese make a well in the center and  start from 1/4 cup of water making it into a dough, keep adding water until a firm dough is formed. Knead this dough until it is smooth and elastic and leave it in a bowl covered with a wet cloth until you make your filling ready. In a bowl wash drain and and chop the Greens roughly, to this add chopped Onions and all the other Ingredients listed under the filling mix them well thoroughly and leave aside. Preheat the oven to 450 degrees ( I preheated and baked my pastries on Gas mark 6 as my oven gets too hot).

Take the dough make 12 round balls and one by one, flatten into a disc place some filling on each disc lift two sides 1/3rd of the circle and pinch them together and lift the third side and pinch them like a triangle seal all the three sides with a thin raised inverted Y in the middle.
Be sure to seal the pastry well so they don't open up during baking, transfer them on to a baking sheet and bake 15 to 20 minutes according to your oven's heat.
Bake them until they are golden in colour and serve them warm or cold.

VERDICT:
The pastry was really delicious, my children loved them, they even told me I shouldn't have added the cheese!, Next time I can just stick to the basic recipe without my little tweak of adding cheese in it thinking kids would like it.

Do not use any cheese in this recipe and you will have a wonderful Vegan Savoury pastry to enjoy.

The post Purslane & Kale Fatayer appeared first on My Veg Fare.

]]>
https://www.myvegfare.com/purslane-kale-fatayer/feed/ 1