Store Fresh, Eat Fresh, Feel Fresh!!!

Most of us face this guilt of wasting vegetables and fruits as they end up going into garbage just because we fail to keep them fresh for a longer time or use them immediately. It’s tough to see hard earned money go waste since vegetables and fruits cost a big chunk of money in the grocery bill. We have shared a conversation which we three had on storing things to stretch their shelf life and also minimize wastage of fresh goods.

Tanya: Ever since I moved to US I have been facing problems in keeping few of my vegetables fresh especially tomatoes & green leafy veg. Since we use tomatoes quite a lot I buy in large quantities, I am unable to store them longer because it gets contaminated.

Bharani: Yes T, For tomatoes you could keep them in a cool dry place until they are ripe and they will stay fresh for two weeks. Once they are ripe you can store them in the fridge. I have problems storing fresh herbs and garlic for a long time. I buy coriander and curry leaf in bulk from the Indian store for a week, but mostly they go stale soon and I end up throwing them in the bin.

Akki: I don't like it when curry leaves becomes wrinkled and dry so I usually have two ways to store them. First I pat them dry, remove the leaves from the sprigs, put them in a tissue paper and then in box with holes and store them in a refrigerator or another way roll them in a tissue paper towel, store them in a box and freeze them. So far this has worked for me. For coriander and mint leaves I have a tupperware box with holes. 

Tupperware’s fridge smart Holes are necessary for coriander and mint so that they can breathe out and the moisture isn't retained in.

B: Oh nice A, I usually store in an airtight box with paper towel at the bottom. Will give this method a try for sure. I had problems storing green chilies too, later figured out that they stay longer if the stem is removed.

T: Hey girls why don't we make a list of items and how and where we should store them. It would be easier for us to look into it and put it into practice.

A: Hey that's a nice idea. Let's all share our suggestions and help each other out.

If you get a good deal on any veg or fruit then there is no harm in buying in bulk but make sure you use them before they go bad. Sometimes instead of just trying to keep them fresh longer you could make something out of it that will last longer, like with tomatoes, garlic or ginger you could make pickle or chutney, with bananas you could make muffins or freeze them for smoothies, you can squeeze lemon juice in ice cube tray and freeze them. We can make a healthy vegetable broth with all the vegetables. Even for milk if your expiry date is nearing and if you have a lot of milk left then it can be used to make paneer or make a special kheer. So next time before you throw away your precious veg in the bin or let it rot not knowing how to use them before they go bad use these suggestions and try a new recipe with it and surprise yourself.

P.S: If you still fail to save your vegetables from rotting :P then you can either throw them in a pit covered with mud to make your own home made manure or put the veggies into your kitchen garden.

The above suggested methods are what we regularly use to keep our veggies fresh for longer. In case you have a suggestion or tip that works well for you please share with us and we will try them too.

Happy storing !!

Finger licking Aloo Paratha

Aloo parathas are potato-stuffed wheat flour Indian bread. They are relished by people throughout India and now its popularity has reached different parts of the globe. It is liked by people right from Punjab to Paris and from Boston to Birmingham. This Indian bread is a comfort food on a nice wintry night. Although it might not be a healthy recipe , it's ok to indulge yourself with this mouth-watering paratha once in a while.

Ingredients

For the dough

Whole wheat flour/ Atta -  1 cup

Salt - a pinch

Water

Oil- 1 tbsp

For the potato filling

Potatoes- 4 medium (cut into cubes, cooked and mashed)

Onion- 2 medium (chopped very finely)

Green chillies- 2-3 Nos (grounded)

Curry leaves- few (chopped)

Ginger-garlic paste- 1 tsp

Turmeric- pinch

Salt to taste

Oil- 1 tbsp

Cumin- 1 tsp

Mustard seeds (optional)- 1 tsp

Ajwain (optional)- ½ tsp

Method

1. To make the dough, first add salt to the flour and slowly start adding water and keep kneading until the dough starts coming together, add oil finally and knead once again. The dough must be very soft to touch. Cover the dough and let it sit for at least one hour.

2. For the filling, take a pan with oil, season with cumin seeds and ajwain.

3. Add onions and saute. Then add green chillies, curry leaves and ginger-garlic paste and saute for few mins.

4. Finally add the potatoes, pinch of turmeric and required salt.

5. Keep mixing until it comes off the pan.

Now that the dough and filling are ready you need to make the parathas.

1. Make a ball with the dough and spread it out like a roti. But don't make it too thin.

2. Now add one tbsp of the potato filling and close the dough (shown in pic)

3. Then roll over with rolling pin softly into nice round parathas.

4. Now put the parathas on a hot tava/iron skillet/non-stick pan and and keep turning over until both sides are cooked.

5.Spread butter over the cooked parathas.

Serve hot with pickle, onions and raita.

Tips:

1.Kneading the dough is the most important step. So do it patiently.

2. Let the filling cool before you put into the dough, else the dough will break.

3.The filling is multi purpose so it can be used in other recipes too like filling into a bread and making a sandwich or roll into chickpea flour/besan paste and frying in oil to make a aloo bonda/vada pav or it can be had as an accompaniment with rice.

4.You can also substitute cauliflower, peas or cheese as stuffing as per your taste.

Don’t get intimidated with the number of steps, just follow it with patience and you will soon agree that the result is worth all the work. So what are you waiting for, start stuffing your parathas.

Happy finger-licking!!

Toddler Series - Travelling with toddlers

Gone are the days when you could just grab your purse, jacket, phone and keys and head out of your home. After you become a parent, there are a zillion things you need to do and a million things to pack before you step out of the door with your kid, it does not matter if it's a short trip to the supermarket or a holiday in Spain.

When kids come along we have to be prepared for anything and everything. Even a trip to buy groceries should be preplanned and necessary packing should be done, because you might think it would just take a few minutes and leave their nappy bag or forget to take their favorite toy with you, but that will be the day they will miss that precious toy and have a meltdown in the checkout lane causing every single person to give you the dirty stare "How could you forget?". On the other hand, the day you pack everything, the little one decides to enjoy nature and buzzing cars.

Initially it can be a bit overwhelming as a new parent, but slowly you will become a pro. We would like to give a few tips and tricks to help you make your journey with toddlers a little easier.

There are a few things that are absolute necessity when you travel with kids be it a short trip or long holidays ... and few things depending upon the type of your travel.

Diaper bag: A Diaper bag  with nappies, baby wipes,nappy bags, a set of changing clothes, a pair of extra socks and a small blanket is a must for a newborn or toddler. Even in case of a potty trained toddler always have a set of changing clothes and socks, because you never know when kids could have toilet accidents. If you are going on a long holiday then carry your kids’ toilet seat.

Snacks and drink: Remember to pack a few snacks like some fruit or biscuits or a favorite treat like a small chocolate bar  or take along a sippy cup with water wherever you go, because if you get delayed outside it might make your hungry toddler cranky.Try to pack finger food which will be easy for them to eat. If you have a baby be sure to have their bottles and formula or baby food if they are weaning.

Toy or activities: A distraction is always required for kids when you are out because they get bored very easily. So it's better to keep a few things like crayons and a notepad, small books, mini cars or toys that will keep them amused for a while when you can get your work done. If you are travelling far, try to pack games and toys your toddler will enjoy playing during the journey or engage them in some activities or DIY games that they might find interesting (DIY Toddler activities coming soon).

Health and Hygiene: Sudocrem, baby moisturizer and hand sanitizer are a must in your diaper bag. A mini first aid box with a few basic things like plasters and antiseptic cream will always come in handy. If you are visiting a beach or a very sunny place make sure you pack some sunscreen cream for kids.

Pram or Stroller: In case you have to walk or you are going to a place where your toddler might get tired walking or running, it is best to have a stroller, makes it easier for both you and your little one. It is best to have light weight stroller in your car always. It will make one thing less to worry about when you head out (also have rain cover for it). If you are travelling abroad, always check if your destination is pram friendly and if you have strollers available there, because some airports have prams which you can borrow. If you are going to a place which is not stroller-friendly then you can think of a baby/toddler carrier where you can strap and carry your kid around.

Rain coats and jackets: In few countries the weather is really unpredictable. It is always wise to have a rain coat or umbrella to keep your little one dry. Also have a jacket as it might get windy anytime even if it might seem sunny .

Apart from the above things it is really important to pack things that your kid is really attached to, like a teddy or blanket or a book they read every day before going to bed. Just before you start packing think of your toddler’s typical everyday routine and go step wise while packing. For example, starting from their toothbrush, milk cup right up to their night pyjamas. This way you will not forget anything. Remember the more they feel at home and comfortable, the easier it is for you and them.

Few tips :

* If you are travelling for very long distance in flight, best book your flights covering their nap or sleep time making it easier. Also if you have a connecting flight make sure that the transit time is less.

* Book your seats near the toilet making it easier for you to access it when it's free, as toddlers might need it often and you need not wait in long queues to change nappy with a messy baby.

*Some flights like Emirates offer bassinets for babies, but make sure to call them and book it in advance.

* If travelling long distance by car, always pack lot of snacks and drinks. Also try to make it interesting for your kid by playing games or asking quiz or singing songs. Stop often and let your kid get down and walk or run for a bit. You can fix your tab or phone on the seat and play cartoons to keep them happy.

*A new set of toys will always make them happy,so put away some toys for a few days before travel and surprise them with those toys during the travel.

So what are you waiting for! Start making your checklist and best take a print out and stick it near your doorway making your travel and trips easier and comfortable.

Happy packing parents !

Chole talks with a twist & tangy flavor....

Our earliest memories of Chole is of the one our mom made at home.  We were told that the chick peas and spices were simmered together for hours resulting in a dish that is relished even today! This a high protein classic recipe with heady flavors. Lovely texture and a combination of spices that goes into its making. The additional flavor of amchur adds a tangy punch to the nuttiness of chickpeas.

Preparation Time:  30mins.  Cooking Time: 30min.  & Nbsp Serves 3-4.

Ingredients:

2 cup chickpeas (chole soaked overnight and pressure cooked with salt for 3 whistles)

2 tsp oil

1 bay leaf (tej patta)

1 stick cinnamon (dalchini)

3-4 cloves (laung)

8-10 whole peppercorns (sabut kali mirch)

3-4 green cardamom (choti elaichi)

2 black cardamom (badi elaichi)

1 tsp turmeric powder (haldi)

1 tsp chili powder (lal mirch powder)

1 tsp coriander powder (dhaniya powder)

1 tsp cumin powder (jeera powder)

1 tsp amchur powder (Dry mango powder)

Salt to taste

1 cup onions (chopped)

1 cup tomatoes (chopped)

Half cup diced potato (optional)

1 tsp ginger (chopped)

1 tsp garlic (chopped)

1-2 green chili (chopped)    

1 Tbsp butter

Method:

In a pan add oil, bay leaf, cinnamon, cumin seeds, cloves, and whole pepper corns, green and black cardamom.

Add chopped onions and saute it.

Then add turmeric, chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, & salt and fry well.

​

After sauteing add chopped tomato, ginger and garlic.

For deglazing the pan add little water.

Now add the precooked chole to the masala.

Add chopped /slit green chilies and water for the base if the gravy gets thick

Simmer the chole gently, cover it for 15-20 min until it boils.

Add amchur powder and a dollop of butter to it.

Garnish the chole with coriander, butter & lemon wedges.

Serve the chole hot with with your choice side. As it goes with pretty much everything you can think of serving it with.

Tips:

• To get the brown color in the chole, add a tea bag or whole spices tied in a muslin cloth while in pressure cooker.
• If pressure cooker is not available you can use deep pan to boil the chickpeas.
• If you don't have the time to soak the chickpeas, soak it in hot water for 3-4 hrs.
• Check for salt, as it was already used to pressure cook chole.
• You can pick what type of masala to add, Chole masala, Garam masala, amchur or anardana. Use only one at a time, not all...

You can enjoy eating hot chole with tikkis, bhatura, kulcha, jeera rice or simply topped on a slice of bread.

Happy Simmering!!!!

Friends- Ever so near yet so far!!!

Who is a friend? A Friend is the first person with whom you want to share any news you hear. A friend will accompany you on the most boring of errands and make them seem fun. In other words, friendship is   wonderful, and much ink has been spilled in citing the virtues of having friends. That's not to say friendship is easy though. It demands time and effort, and sometimes it requires that you put your friends’ problems before your own. But in return, a friend will provide an immense amount of support and comfort during good and bad times. Many qualities are necessary for being a good friend, including honesty, trustworthiness, loyalty and unconditional acceptance. It can be hard to meet people who would make a perfect friend.

Our journey as friends started in high school. Initially the three of us were not the best of friends but gradually developed a liking for each other. During school days, friendship for us was all about passing paper slips with messages written during classes, hanging out after school hours reluctant to go home and again start chatting on landline phone (of those days) as soon we reached home :), joint studies, cycling together from school, enjoying school picnics, attending each other’s birthday parties and practicing dance for competitions. Although we were a big group in school, not all of us stayed in touch and some of them drifted away over a period of time.

After High school each of us moved on to different streams and colleges but we still made a point to catch up with each other once in a while, sometimes going back to our old classrooms in our school or meeting at our old rendezvous points. But things changed when we had to leave for University education and eventually for job, and we could hardly meet. But thanks to mobile phones we stayed in touch now and then.

Finally there came a time when we girls made the best memories of our lives right before we got married. We got to live for a while in the same city and had the best night outs, pizza making parties, best birthday celebrations, which still make us nostalgic. We grew closer more than ever and saw a whole new side of each other which holds us together till today.

For a girl becoming a friend is easier than maintaining that friendship, as after marriage her whole world changes. Her priorities shift towards her family and when she becomes a mother her contact list on phone is almost half of what she had in college. In our case too, marriage brought us to different parts of the world. For a while we were busy settling in a new country and getting used to our domestic duties. But we reconnected again and started off from where we left. We hope that we gals meet soon .. to create some wonderful memories again.

No matter how old she grows... a girl is always dependent on her friends for many things like getting opinions while shopping, sharing recipes, parenting advice etc., Some of our best friendship are from school days.That's where it all began for us. But it is not necessary that only school mates or people with same interest have to be friends. Friendship is the basis for any relationship. It can be between siblings or a husband and a wife or parent and child...age or interest is never a barrier in making friends, it can happen in minutes and last for a lifetime. All that matters is we feel comfortable around that person and can share our thoughts with them without worrying about them judging us.

A beautiful definition of a friend was quoted by one of our favourite personalities and Former President of India, Dr.APJ Abdul Kalam who passed away last week .

“One  best book is equal to hundred good friends but one good friend is equal to a library.”

So what are you waiting for. Go grab your phones, write a mail or find your friends on Facebook and get in touch with them and wish them.

Happy friendship day!