The long eggplants or baingans are either known as Chinese or Japanese, depending on the shade of purple and length. They have really tender and soft skin and are often found in Asian, Indian, and Middle Eastern stores. While selecting eggplants pick those that…
This no-fuss noodle salad can be served hot or cold and is so very easy to make. This dish can be broadly classified as Indian Chinese, which is a fusion of both these cuisines, unique to India. Using the noodles you have, combined with…
Also known as Moroccan lentil soup, this is a warm and hearty soup that offers robust texture and flavors. The use of cinnamon, cloves, and cumin is what gives this soup its unique yet familiar taste and reminds me of the various dals we…
Chillas or cheelas, similar to dosas and dhirdes, are more popular in North India and are made with chickpea or moong dal flour. I have been making these for several years for brunch as they are easy and filling. Sometimes I add chopped spinach…
Barnyard millet or varai and pearl tapioca or sabudana are both gluten-free and can be combined to make vegan and gluten-free pancakes. Since both are also the mainstay and permitted ingredients for fasting days, these small dhirdes (aka chillas, dosas, pancakes) are perfect for…
The combination of roasted peanuts and jaggery is simple, delicious, and packed with energy. These ladoos or power balls of flavor are perfect to pop-in-your-mouth when you need a pick-me-up snack to beat either a mid-morning slump or mid-errand hunger pangs. Additionally, it comes…
Known as danyachi chutney, this is a favorite topping on hot buttered toast or rotis. A staple from the Marathi kitchen, this chutney is used as a side, topping, or turned into a dip by mixing with yogurt or oil. This version has more…
Peanut amti can be described as a mild peanut sauce often paired with Varai Rice (barnyard millet) as a traditional meal on fasting days in Maharashtra. Made with roasted and ground peanuts, this nutty and toasty amti can be made in a jiffy if…
Technically a seed, varai is gluten-free and a good source of protein, carbohydrate, fiber, and, most notably, contains more micronutrients (iron and zinc) than other major cereals. Varai is also known as samo, samak, moraiyo, or bhagar and is often cooked for fasting days….
Simple 4 ingredient cool treat that is healthy and requires only a few minutes to put together. Basil seeds add an extra cool factor and some texture to these pops. You don’t have to restrain yourself from having a second or third serving.
