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 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.

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.

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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 minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes minutes

Total Time 30 minutes 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

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.

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Quinoa and cannellini Bean Burgers

Course Breakfast /Brunch /Meal/Dinner

Cuisine International Cuisine

Prep Time 1 day day 2 hours hours

Cook Time 15 minutes minutes

Total Time 40 minutes 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.

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In India, we love our chutneys and raitas, Pickles, and powders to go with most of our dishes as sides, for our roti’s and rice.  After coming here, I used to use them on bread with loads of variations.  My kids used to enjoy it with fresh veggies to go with them.  I was a happy mum.  Then I started exploring, experimenting, and making different chutneys, pâté, and dips with fresh and new ingredients and full of flavour.

We all live in a very hectic lifestyle. It’s full of work, family, and commitments and sometimes these quick to make pâté, chutneys and dips are very handy.  Early in the morning when you must fix your breakfast as quickly as possible then this pâté is perfect, It goes very well with your bread toast than with just butter or jam.  This is loads of healthy goodness in your bowl don’t you think so.  Spinach is rich in Iron with vitamins and minerals and of course with walnuts and sunflower seeds it’s a healthy treat.

You can also use this as one of your starters if you are having a 3-course meal, healthy and delicious. Send these in children's lunch boxes with veggie crudités and some home baked bread sticks. I had made a whole wheat crusty baguette, this is all you need to enjoy this pâté. Grate some cheese if you love cheese!  or you can also spread thinly on a banh-mi style sandwich.  I had made mushroom and garlic sauteed with some thyme to top it up! You have so many ways to eat it! It's your choice.

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Veggie Spinach walnut spicy pâté

This spinach pâté is rich with all the goodness in a bowl, with a smooth texture and quite flavourful and enjoy this in a variety of ways

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes minutes

Total Time 25 minutes minutes

Servings 3 people

Ingredients

• 450 grams Spinach leaves ( I used babay spinach)
• 1/3 cup walnuts
• 2 tbsp sunflower seeds
• 3 garlic pods
• 1/2 cup Chopped coriander leaves (loosely packed)
• 2 tsp chillie flakes
• 1 tsp coriander seeds
• 4 tbsp olive oil
• salt as required
• 4 scallions

Instructions

• Bring a bowl of water to a boil and blanch spinach leaves 2 minutes. Drain the water from the spinach and allow it to completely drain. Meanwhile, In a skillet take a tbsp of olive oil add chopped garlic, broken pieces of walnuts, sunflower seeds, coriander seeds and chilli flakes.
• Remove it from the skillet and allow it to cool. Switch off the stove in the warmth of the skillet fry chopped scallion, blanched and chopped Spinach with chopped coriander leaves. Leave it in the skillet let it cool down.
  
• In a food processor ( or mixie) grind the cool down sauteed ingredients first to a smooth powder, then to this add spinach, coriander and scallion into it process to a smooth paste with warm water, salt and left over olive oil to a smooth paste.
• Take it in a bowl and sprinkle with some chilli flakes and serve it with crackers, crudites or Bread.

Notes

Taste, check and season it according to your liking and serve.

The post Veggie spicy pâté with Spinach and walnut appeared first on My Veg Fare.

Everyday cooking is my forte now, sweets or any kind of desserts are in a faraway land as I have no takers anymore!! I am not a great fan of sweets, love everything spicy.  Occasionally a bit of chocolate is fine with me.  But, fruits I love them they are my sweet friends.  I try and pick up all the sweet fruits I find in the market.

When kids were small they wouldn't mind gobbling up anything!! I used to bake a lot then, now they have become old and they are more cautious of what they want to eat!! They have become more #health conscious, Every festival I dread to think what sweet shall I make and how will I try to convince them to eat it!!

In India, most of the sweets we make are traditional and cannot forgo changing them especially when you are with elders at home it's like prescribed medicines, we need to make the same sweet for particular festivals.  Now leaving away from parents and Parents-in-law who are no more, I have a free hand on changing menus!! I usually stick with the savoury part of it but, with sweet, I change, I don't follow them sometimes, as it depends on who will eat what? I think most of us have adapted to this kind of attitude right?  As my BIL  always says that his MIL makes Formula food 🙂 !! He knows what my mum makes on each and every festival.

This the method I usually make Khus Khus payasam always. You can try this method as well if you prefer to add milk.

In India, white poppy seeds are used in most of their dishes according to the region and cuisine.  These white poppy seeds are used for bringing flavour, texture and thickening.  Indian cooking is usually based on Ayurveda medicine and our ancestors have adapted it our everyday cooking for good health and its benefits.  Poppy seeds are one of the essential spices in Indian cuisine.

I remember when I had mouth ulcers, fatigue, required sleep, tummy upset or when I felt my body got heated up (Body feels very heated up according to Ayurveda) mum always made this.  It is considered to be anti-inflammatory inflammation caused from stomach and mouth ulcers.  It helps to induce good sleep.  Natural body coolant reduces the heat during summer especially.

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Kheer / Payasam with khus khus (Ghasagase /White Poppy seeds) #vegan

This traditional sweet Kheer / Payasam is totally vegan and super delicious with loads of health benefits

Prep Time 40 minutes minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes minutes

Total Time 1 hour hour 20 minutes minutes

Servings 4

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp White poppy seeds
• 3/4th cup Jaggery ( as you prefer)
• 2 tbsp Rice
• 3 pods cardamom
• 1 whole Coconut or 2 cups of grated coconut packed
• 5 each of Almonds, cashew, pistachio
• 1/3 cup Hot water
• 1+ 1/2 cup water

Instructions

• Dry Roast poppy seeds, in a low flame until it starts popping out. Remove it from the wok and put it in a cup pour hot water and leave it aside for 1/2 an hour with Almonds, Pistachios, Cashewnuts.
  
• Meanwhile, remove the skin from cardamom pods and powder and keep it aside. Take the gratings from the coconut and grind it into a smooth paste, Remove coconut milk by squeezing. Add 1/2 cup of water to the squeezed out coconut gratings and run the mixie again and squeeze coconut milk again. Use the remaining other 1/2 cup water with coconut squeezed gratings and grind again to take coconut milk again.
• The coconut gratings left over after squeezing the coconut milk don't throw it away use that to grind with the soaked poppy seed, cashew, almond, pistachio into a smooth paste. In an other large vessel in which you plan to make the payasam take 1/3 cup water and crushed jaggery, Keep it in a low flame and allow the jaggery to dissolve. Filter the dissolved jaggery wash the vessel so there are no impurities left over.
• Put back the dissolved jaggery into the bowl add the ground poppy seed paste mix it well, so their are no lumps in it and allow it boil, keep on stirring so it doesn't get stuck to the vessel now add the thick, semi thick and thin coconut milk you squeezed out into it.
• Add the powdered cardamom, keep stirring for few more minutes adjust consistency of the payasam if you want it thin add little more water or keep it thick. That's it, the kheer is now ready to be served. You can even edible camphor a pinch for flavour.

Notes

You can use tinned coconut milk if you are unable to make coconut milk. Another method is you need not have to soak poppy seeds.  Once it is cool ground it into a fine powder first and then add the nuts and coconut and grind them into a smooth paste and carry on with the same procedure.

 

The post Kheer / Payasam with khus khus (Ghasagase /White Poppy seeds) #vegan appeared first on My Veg Fare.

“Look at all the life in this," she said. "Every pip could become a tree, and every tree could bear another hundred fruits and every fruit could bear another hundred trees. And so on to infinity."I picked the picks from my tongue with my fingers."Just imagine," she said. "If every seed grew, there'd be no room in the world for anything but pomegranate trees.” ― David Almond, skellig

Pomegranate or ''Punica granactum''  This is categorised as a berry actually!! This fruit when opened you would be amazed to see ruby red pearl-like seeds.   This ruby red jewel is used for medicinal purposes, the fruit is beautifully encased with sometimes pale pink or ruby red seeds held in place by bitter tasting ( I don't think it's too bitter) creamy yellow membrane.

Chutney or Chatney or Chatni is a kind of sauce which is very popular in India.  India has a diversified cuisine as you all know, each region/state has its own variation.  I am talking about the south Indian cuisine right now.  Chutney is an essential part of south Indian cuisine, There are two types of chutneys.  In south India, people use chutney as an accompaniment in their every day Breakfast Recipes with Dosa, Idli, Upma, Rotti, Puris etc.., In Tamilnadu, Chutney is made with lentils and is called Thogayal or Thuvayal this is usually eaten with rice and is served in a combo with different recipes. I could give you a combo try it out and you will love it venthya kuzhambu, Keerai Masiyal and any kind of Thogayal.  Thogayal is made with different ingredients and veggies I have a few on my site you can try it out.

In the western side of the Globe, people make chutneys with fruits, veggies and is usually made with Vinegar and Brown sugar for a longer shelf life.  They also use them as an accompaniment with their main dishes and also to go with their sandwiches.

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Pomogranate Chutney

This pomegranate chutney is spicy and tangy it very delicious.

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes minutes

Total Time 20 minutes minutes

Servings 3

Ingredients

• 1 Cup Pomegranate seeds
• 1/2 cup Pith (skin between the seeds)
• 3 Green chillies
• 1/2" ginger
• 1/3 cup Chutney / Dhaira Dal
• 1/2 cup Loosely packed coconut
• 7 sprigs coriander leaves
• 1/2 tsp salt

Seasoning

• 2 tsp oil
• 1/2 tsp mustard seeds
• 1 sprig curry leaves

Instructions

• Take pomegranates (depending on the size) as I have said I have used 1 cup of pomegranate seeds. I have removed the skin around the seeds, wash the skin and keep it aside. In a wok heat, a tsp of oil add green chillies and chopped ginger and then washed and kept skin of the pomegranate and cook it for a few minutes. Add chopped coriander stalks and leaves and fry for a minute.
  
• Once done with the frying switch off the stove. Once cool Grind all of them with pomegrante seeds, coconut, chutney Dal and salt with a flake of tamarind. Use water as required to make it into chutney consistency.

The post Pomegranate Chutney - Indian chutney recipes appeared first on My Veg Fare.

It's been almost three months I logged on to my computer!! Nope, I can't say that I did log on to my laptop to upload loads of photos as I told you in my earlier post that I have been traveling.  I just came back from a long holiday of one and half months in Amsterdam.  Visiting family is always welcoming that too when you are needed to help them out is a blessing, as at least somebody thinks you are needed! I could say this trip which did not start as a pleasure trip ended up as a good holiday for me, especially in the last week as my sister pampered me so much and I had a good rest with no moving around and enjoying lots of TV shows and food served right onto my lap and also with loads of filled up mugs of teas and coffee every now and then what more can I ask for.  Hmmm..., that was bliss.

Are you wondering why all the fuss? well, I went to this cheese factory which I fell in love with ( stay tuned will post the pictures soon ) asked the owner if I could get some photos he was reluctant  had to convince him a lot at first then, when I showed him my website and my photos he was quite impressed (and I was glad! somebody was impressed)  after all that he gave me permission take photos, once when done I came out climbed onto the car and was about to leave the premises suddenly I remembered that I had forgotten to take a good picture of the entrance!! asked my sister to stop the car, I got out with my camera in my hand turned around walked 2 steps back trying to focus and Lo! my foot just gave away! that was unexpected.  The autumn leaves had covered a concealed little dent in the road and  I staggered and toppled onto the ground with my camera flying from my hand.  Like an acrobat, I caught hold of my camera and saved it from hitting the tar road but I simply forgot about where my leg was heading out!  Ouch! it hurt so badly I couldn't get up, tears came rolling down my cheeks without my consent like little transparent pearls of water from the colourful leaves falling to mingle with mother nature soaking my torn jeans.

I sat there for some time, as my sister never realised that I was lying on the ground it wasn't her fault, as I can't blame her for my stupidity, how could she know that I was going to fall (that was the lecture she gave me later on as she was so worried about my leg). Actually, the lady from the next farm saw me in the act she could have waved at my sister and could have pointed at me, but she walked past with her wheelie bin and came back the same way looking at me all the way!!  can't blame her either right?  It was all my fault.  Anyways I pulled my leg slowly got on to my feet dragging it through went to the car, that was when my sis realized I was in trouble, she was so terrified scolded me all the 30 minutes driving back.  Coming back home I sat to remove my shoes, when I removed my socks I knew that something had happened to my ankle it was fully blown up to my knee I had a lot of bruises, long story short I am alright now back home went to my GP she got  some x-rays done thank God! I haven't got any broken bones she suspects a stretched ligament and also declared I have sprained my ankle very badly so I need to take few more days of rest (which hasn't happened after coming back I should have stayed some more days in Amsterdam).  That's the end of my story.

winter soups

Sun  is minimal  and the days are becoming shorter as well. The warm weather  is slowly drifting away, from the brighter skies to cold, gray obscure gloomy parasol.   Colourful T-shirts and leggings are replaced with Jumpers and Jackets to ward off the nippy weather.  But, the question is  which side of the coin you are in?  Do you feel if you are slipping into a fantasy land  and dreaming of drizzling  snow steadily onto the ground like a white blanket, Hearth buzzing away furiously burning logs of firewood, the crackling sound and the puffing smoke seeping through the chimney and you cuddling on your sofa with a warm blanket, a book and a bowl of warm soup with a home made bread and enjoy the wonder world  OR  feeling somber, going through the winter blues and dripping into a cocoon only to wake up after six months!! I would prefer the dream world looking out in the window from my sofa where I can see the white crystal flakes falling obliquely into the crisp clear starry black night onto the ground against the lamp light is my favourite sight.

Winter brings us squashes of all varieties.  I buy them now and then as they literally have a long  shelf life, they don't seem to die at all.  Butternut  squash is one such winter squashes which my hubby keeps buying because he likes the soup I make out of it.  So, here is our hero today and now I have to tell you how I make it and if you like it as well ping me on one of my social media hashtag @ #myvegfare and I will be one happy blogger.

Let's get back to the recipe then...

Recipe Author : Jayasri
Recipe Type: Soup
Prep time : 10 minutes
Cook time : 20 minutes
Serves : 4
Shelf life :2 to 3 days in refrigeration

Ingredients:

1 Butternut squash (approx..750grms)
2 cloves garlic
1’’ Ginger
1 onion
1 litre vegetable stock (using stock cube)
2 sprigs of Basil
½ tbsp of oil
1 tbsp of mixed seeds (sunflower, linseed, pumpkin, sesame and chia)
6 cashew nuts
½  tsp cumin seeds
½  tsp coriander seeds
½  tsp Black pepper

Method:

Cut the squash in half and scoop out the pith by removing the seeds.  Peel the skin and cut into cubes.
In a wok/pan heat oil add cumin seeds, coriander seeds and black pepper fry for a minute then add chopped garlic, onion and ginger sauté for few minutes till the onions become translucent.
Now add the cubed squash and cook stir-frying it for 5 more minutes with a lid closed in a medium flame.  Within few minutes it gets well cooked. Add the basil leaves give a stir for few seconds within seconds it wilts.
Allow it to cool down, when it is cooling down prepare the stock using around 4 cups of water.
Once it is cool blend it in a food processor or in an Indian mixie to a smooth consistency. (Or you can pour the stock into the pan using a hand blender you can blend in batches until you get a smooth puree).
You can pass it through a sieve into a clean saucepan and pour the vegetable stock (keeping aside ¼ cup of water) season it with salt, taste and adjust the seasonings.

In a small skillet heat a tsp of oil toast the mixed seeds for few minutes with cashew nuts. Grind them into a smooth paste using little stock water add this ground paste to the saucepan and heat through gently for few more minutes keep an eye so it doesn’t get stuck to the bottom as it starts thickening. Switch off the stove, to serve ladle the soup into bowls garnish with few more basil leaves and toasted seeds.  Serve it with a bread of your choice or with crunchy croutons.

Make your own crouton:  It’s easy to make your own crouton. Crush using a pestle and mortar a clove of garlic and herb of your choice with 3 to 4 peppercorns and salt. Take a day-old bread, cut into cubes marinate the cubes with the above said mix.  Heat a little olive oil in a skillet add this marinated bread mix and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown. It’s now ready to go on the soup.

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Creamy Butternut Squash soup #Vegan #Glutenfree

Vegan and Gluten free winter squash soup is also creamy and delicious hearty meal in itself.

Course Soup

Cuisine International

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes minutes

Total Time 35 minutes minutes

Servings 4

Author Jayasri

Ingredients

• 1 Butternut squash approx..750grms
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 ’’ Ginger
• 1 onion
• 1 litre vegetable stock using stock cube
• 2 sprigs of Basil
• ½ tbsp of oil
• 1 tbsp of mixed seeds sunflower, linseed, pumpkin, sesame and chia
• 6 cashew nuts
• ½ tsp cumin seeds
• ½ tsp coriander seeds
• ½ tsp Black pepper

Instructions

• Cut the squash in half and scoop out the pith by removing the seeds. Peel the skin and cut into cubes.
• In a wok/pan heat oil add cumin seeds, coriander seeds and black pepper fry for a minute then add chopped garlic, onion and ginger sauté for few minutes till the onions become translucent.
• Now add the cubed squash and cook stir-frying it for 5 more minutes with a lid closed in a medium flame. Within few minutes it gets well cooked. Add the basil leaves give a stir for few seconds within seconds it wilts.
• Allow it to cool down, when it is cooling down prepare the stock using around 4 cups of water.
• Once it is cool blend it in a food processor or in an Indian mixie to a smooth consistency. (Or you can pour the stock into the pan using a hand blender you can blend in batches until you get a smooth puree).
• You can pass it through a sieve into a clean saucepan and pour the vegetable stock (keeping aside ¼ cup of water) season it with salt, taste and adjust the seasonings.
• In a small skillet heat a tsp of oil toast the mixed seeds for few minutes with cashew nuts. Grind them into a smooth paste using little stock water add this ground paste to the saucepan and heat through gently for few more minutes keep an eye so it doesn’t get stuck to the bottom as it starts thickening. Switch off the stove, to serve ladle the soup into bowls garnish with few more basil leaves and toasted seeds. Serve it with a bread of your choice or with crunchy croutons.

Notes

Notes: If you do not want to do it on stove top you can grill or bake in the oven until the veggies become soft. Then fry the spices in a skillet and continue as above.
Make your own crouton: It’s easy to make your own crouton. Crush using a pestle and mortar a clove of garlic and herb of your choice with 3 to 4 peppercorns and salt. Take a day-old bread, cut into cubes marinate the cubes with the above said mix. Heat a little olive oil in a skillet add this marinated bread mix and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown. It’s now ready to go on the soup

The post Creamy Butternut Squash soup #Vegan #Glutenfree appeared first on My Veg Fare.

India is a country with a vast cultural ambiguity.  Each state / Religion / Sects and sub-sects enjoy different festivities.  Each state celebrates Harvest festival, in different months.  Keralites from Kerala from the south of India, also known as God's own country because of its natural beauty and famous for its backwaters and the lush greenery.

Onam is the biggest festival in Kerala, It is also called the state festival of Kerala.  Festival falls during the Malayalam month of Chingam (Aug-Sep).  Onam is celebrated marking the commemoration of home-coming of their  King Mahabali.  This Harvest festival in Kerala is celebrated by one and all of 10 days irrespective of religion, caste, and creed.  It is said that King Mahabali's rule, was a golden era in Kerala.  It is in honour of this King Mahabali that Onam is celebrated.  Thiruonam day is the most important day of the 10 day Onam festival  it is the of Sri Padmanabha Swamy, presiding deity of Thiruvananthapuram. It is on the Thiruonam day King Mahabali was sent to Paathalam (nether world) by Vamana (avatar of Mahavishnu),

The story goes likes this - King Mahabali was the descendant of Hiranyakashyap, father of Prahalad.   Mahabali was the Asura (demon) king .  The king of greatly respected in his kingdom for his bravery, virtues, strength, intelligence, and his extreme generosity.  During his reign, his subjects were very happy and content there was no crime, corruption, poverty and sorrow.  Mahabali's growing popularity and fame made the suras (Gods) jealous and were concerned, they were threatened as usual, about their own supremacy in front of the Asuras.  As the Gods knew about Mahabali's generosity,  he would not say no to anybody if they approached him with a request.  Keeping this as their strategic point they made Lord Vishnu disguise himself as a dwarf and a poor brahmin called Vamana.

Vamana was sent to Mahabali,  right after him offering prayers to his favourite deity Mahavishnu.  When he would do charity work, when it was Vamana's turn, Bali asked him what he wanted he innocently said he needed land. Mahabali was ready to give as much land as he wanted, but Vamana said that he wanted a piece of land, which would cover keep his three steps.  Mahabali was surprised but his court advisor Guru Shukracharya sensed Vamana was not an ordinary Brahmin and warned the King.  But, the king would not go back on his words took his Kamandalam to grant the wishes of the Brahmin.  Guru Shukracharya disguises himself and blocks the nozzle where the water comes out, Vamana knowing about it pokes the hole that was Shukracharya looses his one eye.  As the wish was granted Vamana puts his one foot on the earth, his little feet covers the whole earth!! next foot he puts his foot on the Universe and covers the whole of Universe.  Vamana asks Mahabali where to put his third foot, by then Mahabali, had come to know that Vamana was not an ordinary person.  He asks Vamana to put his third foot on his head, Vamana puts his foot on Mahabali's head and pushes him down to paathala(netherworld), where he shows himself as Lord Vishnu and blesses him with a boon.  King Mahabali requests Mahavishnu to give him permission to visit his subjects once every year to see them if they were happy and content.  It is this  day Keralites  welcome their king who sacrificed his life, Every year people make elaborate preparations as a tribute their king with all the pompous and celebration. They wish to please the spirit of their King by depicting that his people are happy and wish him well, it is on the second day the King said to visit the earth. A Lovely story isn't it ?

Hmm..., Did you know something else as well,  It is said that the laying of the Pookolam (an arrangement of flowers, A special kolam design made with flowers during Onam festival which is arranged in front of the house or in the hallway), is arranged starting from the first day of Onam until the 10th day of the celebration.

Onam is also celebrated with different activities in the state and of course, no Indian festival is celebrated without an elaborate feast.  Onam Sadya is what it is called during Thiruvonam festival served on a plantain leaf.  It is said around 30 varieties of food is prepared.  Onam Sadya includes - Thoran, Mezhukkupuratti, Kaalan, Olan, Aviyal, Sambar, Parippu curry, Pappadam, Sharkaravaratti, Banana chips, Erisheri, Rasam, Pulissery, Moru curry, pickles, Theeyal, Kootu curry, Pacchadi, Buttermilk, Chammanthi, and payasam.

I will post the recipes in the coming days, but I would love to share one of my favourite Pulissery or Pulisheri which can be made with different fruits and veggies, here I am sharing with Mango.

MAMBAZHA PULISSERY / PULISHERI (SWEET MANGO CURRY)

Recipe Type: Main Meals
Author : Jayasri
Cuisine : Indian (Kerala)
Prep time 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Shelf life: one day

INGREDIENTS:
1 sweet Mango
1 tbsp Jaggery
2 tbsp coconut oil
1 sprig curry leaves
2 dried red chillies
A pinch of hing
1/4 tsp mustard seeds
Salt as required
2 cups of water

Grind to paste:
1/3 cup fresh coconut
2 to 3 green chillies
1 tsp cumin seeds
1/2 tsp mustard powder
1/2 tsp turmeric powder

METHOD:

Wash and chop the Mango into cubes (slightly bigger in size) leaving the seed. In a pan heat oil and add mustard seed, once it splutters add curry leaves and dried red chillies once they are done add the chopped Mangoes and a cup of water and then allow it to cook, in a medium flame.
Meanwhile take all the ingredients under Grind to paste in a blender to make into a smooth paste using 1/4 cup of water.
By that time the Mangoes would have cooked, as it doesn't take a long time to cook. Add this paste to the pan mix well and add the remaining water. Add salt and jaggery and allow it to cook for few more minutes until well blended.
Pour the contents of the curry into a serving bowl and serve immediately.

Notes:

This curry can be made with cooking the mangoes first and then adding the seasoning in the end as well.
You can add onion and garlic with the seasonings if you want, but i like it without onion and garlic.

Enjoy!!!

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Mambazha pulissery (Sweet Mango curry) - Kerala style

This sweet and spicy curry is so delicious you wouldn't say no to a second serving

Course Main

Cuisine Indian (Kerala cuisine)

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes minutes

Total Time 20 minutes minutes

Servings 3

Author Jayasri

Ingredients

• INGREDIENTS:
• 1 sweet Mango
• 1 tbsp Jaggery
• 2 tbsp coconut oil
• 1 sprig curry leaves
• 2 dried red chillies
• A pinch of hing
• 1/4 tsp mustard seeds
• Salt as required
• 2 cups of water
• Grind to paste:
• 1/3 cup fresh coconut
• 2 to 3 green chillies
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1/2 tsp mustard powder
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder

Instructions

• Wash and chop the Mango into cubes (slightly bigger in size) leaving the seed. In a pan heat oil and add mustard seed, once it splutters add curry leaves and dried red chillies once they are done add the chopped Mangoes and a cup of water and then allow it to cook, in a medium flame.
• Meanwhile take all the ingredients under Grind to paste in a blender to make into a smooth paste using 1/4 cup of water.
• By that time the Mangoes would have cooked, as it doesn't take a long time to cook. Add this paste to the pan mix well and add the remaining water. Add salt and jaggery and allow it to cook for few more minutes until well blended.
• Pour the contents of the curry into a serving bowl and serve immediately.

Notes

This curry can be made with cooking the mangoes first and then adding the seasoning in the end as well.
You can add onion and garlic with the seasonings if you want, but i like it without onion and garlic.

The post Mambazha pulissery (Sweet Mango curry) - Kerala style appeared first on My Veg Fare.

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.

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.

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?

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

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.

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.

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.

WHAT IS RAGI?

Ragi or Finger Millet (Eleusine Coracana) is an annual plant.  Earliest records of this show it was cultivated in India, particularly in the southern parts of India especially in the regions of Karnataka.  It is a staple diet in Karnataka, It is also called poor man's protein diet.  It was referred to  as 'famine crop' or 'Poor man's crop' as it was always seen as farmers staple food,  making little balls out of the flour which is called as 'Ragi Balls' or  called in Kannada as 'Ragi mudde' (will post the recipe soon) was and still is his diet when he went farming.  This is still used as an important part of our diet in rural parts in Karnataka.  This is very fulfilling and keeps your hunger at bay.

WHY RAGI AS BREAKFAST?

Breakfast is a quintessential part of our daily life, it is the most important meal of the day. You can indulge with tempting, tasty and healthy recipes, and make your breakfast a worthwhile. Ragi is one of the most nutritional and healthy grain.  Breakfast with Ragi is very fulfilling and keeps your hunger at bay.

Even as a kid I used to like it, My children wouldn't eat because of the colour.  Nowadays they have started liking it.  Especially they love it when I make this Semiya (Noodles) dish and it doesn't even taste like Ragi!  that's their verdict.  So, now this is always in my breakfast list.  Children happy so Mummy is happy when they eat healthy food.

RAGI IN VARIOUS DIETS

In my state(Karnataka), we make a special diet for babies using this flour and is called as ' Ragi Siri' (Homemade Baby food)! (will post the recipe).  My children grew up eating Ragi siri!!  These days people have realized the nutritive value of this little grain, even in urban areas, now when I visit India (Karnataka) I have started seeing them in restaurants!!

Benefits of Ragi are said to control Diabetes, Osteoporosis, Cancer, and a lot more. It is said that Ragi is said to be rich in protein which is easily absorbed by the human body.  It is also rich in Calcium, phosphorus, potassium, and Iron.  It is said that Ragi reduces cholesterol. It is also gluten-free.

RAGI AS A MILLET

Among the millets, comparable to foxtail millet and Kodo millet, studies have also shown that finger millet controls blood glucose levels, hyperglycemia, and oxidative stress. Finger millet has also shown promise in accelerating wound healing among diabetics. Diabetic patients are advised to eat Finger Millet for this reason.

That's a lot of things we have come to know of this little grain, let's get to the recipe then, on how to make Ragi Semiya (Noodles).

RAGI / FINGER MILLET OTTU SHAVIGE OR SEMIYA (NOODLES / VERMICELLI)
Vegan South Indian Karnataka Style fresh Homemade semiya (Noodles)
Recipe Type: Breakfast
Cuisine: Indian
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Recipe Author: Jayasri

Ingredients:
1 Cup Ragi / Finger Millet Flour
1 & 1/2 Cup Water
1 tsp Oil
1 tsp salt

Method:
In a heavy-bottomed vessel add water and a tsp of oil and salt allow it to boil. Once it starts boiling bring it to a low flame. In a cup take 1 to 2 tbsp of water and dissolve a tsp of ragi flour dissolve it and add it to the boiling water, after a minute add the flour into the vessel in the middle and immerse a wooden stick or a spatula or label in it.

Close the lid (it won't close completely) not to worry. Leave it for 7 to 8 minutes, water starts rising to cover the flour. Remove the lid and switch off the stove, stir vigorously to bring all the flour together, sprinkle little more water and close the lid.
After 2 minutes, remove it on to a plate. It will be very hot so dip your hand in water every time, start bringing the dough together into a dough ball. Knead the dough into a smooth ball.
Now your base for the Ragi Semiya (Noodles / Ottu shavige) dough is ready.

HOW TO MAKE RAGI SEMIYA  (NOODLES) / OTTU SHAVIGE:

Once the dough is ready to use a Shavige maker or Chakkuli maker to make Ottu shavige. Make around 3 balls fill it into the dough maker and press it. Use the Thenzgol press or the Omam Pudi press which has large holes or small holes whichever you choose and make the Shavige.

Press the shavige into Idli plates or some vessel you can use for a steamer. Place it in a cooker and steam just like you make Idlies for 12 to 15 minutes.
Take it out and spread it on a plate so they don't One another.

I have made a powder to use for the Bath, Here is how you make that powder to the Bath

CURRY LEAVES POWDER:
INGREDIENTS:
1 & 1/2 Tbsp Channa Dal
1/2 tbsp Urad Dal
25 curry Leaves
1 tsp Black Pepper
2 flakes of Tamarind
1/2 tsp Oil

METHOD:
In a wok fry with a tsp of oil, all the above said ingredients until a nice aroma comes out and the dals change colour. Once the dals cool down powder it and keep it ready.

HOW TO MAKE RAGI SEMIYA (NOODLES) / OTTU SHAVIGE BATH:

INGREDIENTS:
3 to 4 Tbsp of oil
1 tsp mustard seeds
1 tbsp of channa dal
1/2 tbsp of urad dal
few curry leaves
1/4 fresh coconut
few coriander leaves
Salt as required

METHOD:
In a large wok, heat oil add mustard seeds, once they splutter add the green chilies, dals and curry leaves and fry for few minutes in a medium flame once they change colour.
Add the steamed Ottu shavige and salt as required mix well and carefully so they don't break up, then add the curry leaves powder around 3 to 4 tbsp (use it as per your taste).
Mix everything well close a lid and leave it for 2 to 3 minutes.
After 3 minutes switch of the stove remove the lid sprinkle fresh coconut and chopped fresh coriander leaves thoroughly mix everything together.
Serve warm and enjoy this Ragi Semiya (noodles).

Verdict: My family loves it, according to my children you won't even know that it is made of Ragi.

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Ragi / Finger Millet Semiya (Noodles)

Most delicious and healthy breakfast which you would be fulfilling and no compromise on taste

Course Breakfast

Cuisine Indian

Prep Time 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time 40 minutes minutes

Total Time 1 hour hour

Servings 3

Author Jayasri

Ingredients

• INGREDIENTS FOR MAKING OTTU SHAVIGE
• 1 Cup Ragi / Finger Millet Flour
• 1 & 1/2 Cup Water
• 1 tsp Oil
• 1 tsp salt
• CURRY LEAVES POWDER FOR RAGI OTTU SHAVIGE BATH
• INGREDIENTS:
• 1 & 1/2 Tbsp Channa Dal
• 1/2 tbsp Urad Dal
• 25 curry Leaves
• 1 tsp Black Pepper
• 2 flakes of Tamarind
• 1/2 tsp Oil
• In a wok fry with a tsp of oil all the above said ingredients until a nice aroma comes out and the dals change colour. Once the dals cool down powder it and keep it ready.
• INGREDIENTS TO MAKE RAGI OTTU SHAVIGE BATH:
• 3 to 4 Tbsp of oil
• 1 tsp mustard seeds
• 1 tbsp of channa dal
• 1/2 tbsp of urad dal
• few curry leaves
• 1/4 fresh coconut
• few coriander leaves
• Salt as required

Instructions

• METHOD FOR MAKING OTTU SHAVIGE:
• In a heavy-bottomed vessel add water and a tsp of oil and salt allow it to boil. Once it starts boiling bring it to a low flame. In a cup take 1 to 2 tbsp of water and dissolve a tsp of ragi flour dissolve it and add it to the boiling water, after a minute add the flour into the vessel in the middle and immerse a wooden stick or a spatula or label in it. Close the lid (it won't close completely) not to worry. Leave it for 7 to 8 minutes, water starts rising to cover the flour. Remove the lid and switch of the stove, stir vigorously to bring all the flour together, sprinkle little more water and close the lid.
• After 2 minutes, remove it on to a plate. It will be very hot so dip your hand in water every time, start bringing the dough together into a dough ball. Knead the dough into a smooth ball.
• Now your base for the Ottu shavige dough is ready.
• HOW TO MAKE RAGI OTTU SHAVIGE / SEMIYA:
• Once the dough is ready to use a Shavige maker or Chakkuli maker to make Ottu shavige. Make around 3 balls fill it into the dough maker and press it. Use the Thenzgol press or the Omam Pudi press which has large holes or small holes whichever you choose and make the Shavige.
• Press the shavige into Idli plates or some vessel you can use for steamer. Place it in a cooker and steam just like you make Idlies for 12 to 15 minutes.
• Take it out and spread it on a plate so they don't One another.
• HOW TO MAKE RAGI OTTU SHAVIGE BATH:
• In a wok fry with a tsp of oil, all the above said ingredients until a nice aroma comes out and the dals change colour. Once the dals cool down powder it and keep it ready.

Notes

When using the curry leaves powder to use it according to your taste you can increase or decrease the powder to your liking.
When mixing the Ottu shavige handle it carefully so they don't break up too much.
Using of Green chilies is optional.

The post Ragi / Finger Millet Semiya (Noodles) appeared first on My Veg Fare.

There will not be one south Indian who would say no to Dosas. I am kidding there might be a few who would prefer to eat Idli than Dosa or something else like a toast or probably muesli. I know few people who wouldn't want dosa as their breakfast when they were back home. Now they miss it's so much that even if you talk about it, they feel nostalgic and when they land in India the first thing they want to eat in the airport is Dosa! ( I am talking about my children especially!).

Basically, this is a crepe made out of lentils and Legumes. Dosas in those days were made with planning, it was a planned breakfast. Now #Dosas can be made anytime with or without planning!! as we don't have time for anything these days and tend to go for fast foods, even simple tasks like cooking a meal has become a tedious job. Dosa comes in various forms, these days you can find Dosa made using different ingredients and different methods. However, I don't mind eating it in any way or any form it comes, either fermented or not.

#Dosa or Dosay or Dosai spell it, however, you like, they are just delicious. It is said that #Dosa was originated in Udupi, Karnataka. One of my favourite cuisines in the world. If you are in Karnataka you wouldn't or shouldn't miss eating in an authentic Udupi restaurant for a Kannadiga food.

Whatever it is, there are some basic Dosa which you wouldn't want to miss...Some of them are Masala Dosa, Plain Dosa, Uttapam, Rava Dosa and Set Dosa. You might get the same kind of accompaniments for all the dosas said above. But, set Dosa is the one, which is always served with fantastic saagu, chutney and sometimes aloo gadde palya (potato curry) in some restaurants.

Here are some of the dosas you might want to check out
Mysore Masala Dosa,Ready made Masala dosa mix , Beans Sprouts Dosa, Museli - Bran flakes Dosa, cous-cous Dosa , Paruppu Adai , Snake Gourd Dosa , Whole Green Gram Dosa, Onion Dosa, Rawa Onion Dosa, Puffed Rice/Mandakki Dosa, Carrot Dosa, Vegetable Uttappam with a twist.

Set Dosa is one of the popular Breakfast dishes in Karnataka which you can find almost every hotel or darshinis, like Pongal, Idli, Masala Dosa, Uppuma etc. As far as I remember in those days when I was a little girl we used to eat 4 dosas in a set dosa plate, they used to be of palm size served with chutney and saagu ( a slightly spicy curry or korma with mixed vegetables or sometimes  with potato Saagu). Gradually set dosas changed to only three as most diners couldn't consume 4! either they used to share or just ask for half set dosa! Slowly they started serving 3 but I feel now dosas are an inch bigger than before. Now in my hometown if you go to any restaurant it is served only 3 a plate.

Masala Dosa is the ultimate version of Dosas nothing can beat it. But set dosa is like a full meal these crepes or pancakes are spongy and slightly thick these are also called sponge dosas it is less greasy too! comparably. It is cooked only on one side and should be served in a set of 3.

Here is how it is made, I have used Red rice to make it so you can see it is red in colour! You can substitute the same proportion for white rice and use the same method.

Set Dosa/ A Crepe or pancake with thousand holes

Recipe Author: Jayasri
Recipe Type: Breakfast/ Indian
Cuisine : Indian
Prep time : 6hrs soaking time & 8hrs Fermenting time
Cook time : 10 to 12 minutes
Serves : Depending on how much batter you use.

Ingredients:

Red Rice / White Rice:  3 and 1/2 Cups
Black Urad dal / Uddina Bele: 3/4th Cup
Poha / Beaten Rice: 1 Cup
1 tbsp of Fenugreek seeds
1 fist full of Moong dal or Channa dal

Method:

Wash and soak Rice, Fenugreek seeds and Moong dal/Channa dal in a vessel
wash and soak Urad dal separately
Wash and soak Beaten rice separately.
They should be soaked for at least 6 hours. After 6 to 7 hours grind them into a very fine paste. I usually grind Poha/Beaten rice with rice so it grinds very well and then I grind Urad dal separately.
Once everything is finely ground to a fine paste. Mix all the batter and leave it to ferment for at least 8 hours or overnight, depending on where you live.
Once it is fermented take the batter as required for how much you would like to use and add some water to make into a pouring consistency like pancake.
You can add salt to the whole batter or add it to the quantity you are using.
Heat the tawa/ Pan / girddle season it with oil use a cut onion or a brush to do so.
Spread the batter in a circular motion to make set dosa,do not try to spread it thinly it should be thicker close it with a lid. Once cooked you will see loads of holes in them, then sprinkle oil and leave it for another minute then take it out and serve it with any accompaniment you have chosen with it.

Notes:
Sometimes when we make the batter in winter because of the cold weather it takes 15 hours to ferment! So, totally depends on the temperature just like your bread where yeast needs a warm temperature . But, the dosa batter needs warmer temperature than this.

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Set Dosa / A Crepe with a thousand holes!!

Delicious Soft and spongy Pancakes / crepes served with chutney and saagu, A south Indian delicacy

Course Indian Breakfast

Cuisine Indian

Prep Time 12 hours hours

Cook Time 10 minutes minutes

Total Time 12 hours hours 10 minutes minutes

Author Jayasri

Ingredients

• Red Rice / White Rice: 3 and 1/2 Cups
• Black Urad dal / Uddina Bele: 3/4th Cup
• Poha / Beaten Rice: 1 Cup
• 1 tbsp of Fenugreek seeds
• 1 fist full of Moong dal or Channa dal

Instructions

• Wash and soak Rice, Fenugreek seeds and Moong dal/Channa dal in a vessel
• wash and soak Urad dal separately
• Wash and soak Beaten rice separately.
• They should be soaked for at least 6 hours. After 6 to 7 hours grind them into a very fine paste. I usually grind Poha/Beaten rice with rice so it grinds very well and then I grind Urad dal separately.
• Once everything is finely ground to a fine paste. Mix all the batter and leave it to ferment for at least 8 hours or overnight, depending on where you live.
• Once it is fermented take the batter as required for how much you would like to use and add some water to make into a pouring consistency like pancake.
• You can add salt to the whole batter or add it to the quantity you are using.
• Heat the tawa/ Pan / girddle season it with oil use a cut onion or a brush to do so.
• Spread the batter in a circular motion to make set dosa, do not try to spread it thinly it should be thicker close it with a lid. Once cooked you will see loads of holes in them, then sprinkle oil and leave it for another minute then take it out and serve it with any accompaniment you have chosen with it.

Notes

Sometimes when we make the batter in winter because of the cold weather it takes 15 hours to ferment! So, totally depends on the temperature just like your bread where yeast needs a warm temperature . But, the dosa batter needs warmer temperature than this.

The post Set Dosa / A Crepe with a thousand holes!! appeared first on My Veg Fare.