Microwave Rava Dhokla

The presence of a microwave and the absence of specialized Indian dishes used for cooking certain items led me to try microwave cooking. Since I did not have any stovetop steel dish to steam my Dhoklas traditionally I tried this recipe because I was craving for them. And to my delight they turned out so soft and puffy. My microwave dhoklas were very well received at a potluck...

Read More

Pleasures of a gourmet dish--Stuffed Tomatoes

Things have been a little hectic in the preetibhoj household. Four of our friends were paid a visit by the stork and we have been busy welcoming little bundles of joy. It is amazing to see the face of a newly born, it fills you with so much more faith in life. And since babies are being born, grandparents from India have been visiting, which gives me more reason to invite...

Read More

Cabbage Kofta Curry

How do you turn the humble cabbage into a delectable dish? Simple, make koftas! Cabbage kofta curry is, cabbage dumplings in a flavored tomato sauce. And if you want something to take for a potluck or cook for friends, this is it. It will sure win you accolades.My cooking is most of the time inspired by snapshot memories of my Mom serving finger-licking food to me and my sisters....

Read More

Delicious Sweet and Spicy Butternut Squash(or pumpkin) Bake

Back home in India we make Subji and halwa(pudding) out of pumpkin. Pumpkin here is a Halloween dish, at other times butternut squash is easily available . I used to make subji(dry curry) out of this squash, but after I had pumpkin pie at a friends place, I wondered how would a baked butternut squash taste. I wanted to make a warm casserole for dinner and after some trial...

Read More

Simply healthy- Avocado and pasta salad

I am always on a lookout for healthy wholesome food that is nutritious and tasty at the same time. Salads are a great source of fiber and essential vitamins if tossed with the right ingredients. My all time favorite salad ingredient is Avocado. Though high in calories it is a great source of Vit K, B6,C, folate and potassium. The creamy texture and subtle flavor makes any...

Read More

A touch of Kumaon- Palak Kapa

Kumaon comprises that natural wonder which God placed on earth with his own hands. It is that beautiful stretch of mountains in the heart of Himalayas that is full of beauty, mythology and poetry. The breathtaking beauty of this region coupled with the warm and rich culture makes it simply irresistible.The cuisine of Kumaon is high in taste and nutrition while being prepared...

Read More

Movie-Night Snack - Spinach Strombolis

Movie nights with friends require finger foods and quick snacks which can be served at room temperature. I always like to make Stromboli which are a favorite with many cheese lovers. One ingredient which gives the ultimate taste to spinach Stromboli is Pesto sauce, you can make it at home or get it from a store, my favorite is Trader Joe's Pesto alla Genovese. Here's...

Read More

Bengal Gram (kala chana) Sprouts Salad

Sprouts have long been famous as “health food.” Whole pulses like moong, chana, chole, chawli, rajma, masur etc., can be easily sprouted. These sprouts are the energy foods for the body.I make kala chana or bengal gram sprouts very often at home and like to have it raw in a salad. apart from the energy it provides all vitamins when consumed raw.Sprouting is soaking, draining...

Read More