The last week of October heralds the fabulous festival of Diwali, marching in with all its glory, urging Indians all around the world to gear up to celebrate one of the biggest festivals of the season! Marked with Diyas (decorated oil lamps), beautiful clothes, lovely colors of the Rangoli, and lots of delicious snacks and sweets, this is one Indian festival you don't wan to miss! Diwali is … [Read more...]
DIY: 10 Ideas To Make Your Own Rakhis
August 4, 2016 by
"Rakhi" is the cherished Indian festival that celebrates the loving bond between a brother and a sister. It is a day when siblings pray for each others' well being and wish for each others' happiness and goodwill. It is also known as Rakshabandhan, or literally translated as 'a bond of protection'. On this auspicious day, brothers make a promise to their sisters to protect them from all harms and … [Read more...]
21 Ways to Repurpose Your Favorite Old Sarees
October 19, 2015 by
Its a no-brainer that all Indian ladies love their Sarees! In fact, you'll find a huge fan-following for these 7-9 yard pieces of fabric even outside the Indian community. With a myriad mix of fabrics and a versatile range of designs and colors, the Sari has now become a big fashion icon. But with changing trends, we move on to the latest fashion, and our beloved Saris are often left to age in … [Read more...]
Fried Broccoli & Cheese Fritters
September 4, 2012 by
Two days ago we observed a sudden change in the weather, and from warm and humid days, it suddenly became dark and gloomy, and the sky was overcast with clouds the whole day, as if officially announcing the end of Summer in the Bay Area! And today, as I celebrate Labor Day with my family and friends, I know this is probably going to be one of the last summer garden parties until next year! But … [Read more...]
Paneer Tikka Masala
March 5, 2012 by
Paneer Tikka Masala - Marinated paneer and veggies grilled and cooked in a spicy Indian gravy When it comes to Indian cuisine, Paneer needs no introduction. If there's a celebration that involves Indian food, then you are sure to find Paneer on the menu list. And why not - with its smooth and creamy texture, a chunky cubical form, and its ability to absorb and accentuate the flavors of anything … [Read more...]
Baingan Bharta (Eggplant Curry)
January 24, 2012 by
The eggplant, or Aubergine, is a large pear-shaped vegetable with a glossy purple skin and firm white flesh, embedded with tiny brownish seeds. It is a very versatile ingredient, as it can be fried, baked, boiled, steamed or grilled, and can be used in curries, appetizers, dips, spreads, and more. Its a popular ingredient in Indian, Middle Eastern, Italian and Moroccan cuisines. However, you will … [Read more...]
Ragda Patties (Potato Patties in Dried Peas Curry)
January 7, 2012 by
This might sound lofty, but its true! A food lover's culinary journey is incomplete until you have stopped by a street vendor in the crowded streets of India and eaten his plate of Pani-Puri, Ragda Patties, Pav Bhaji, or several other tasty snacks so aptly categorized as Indian Street Food. With the growing concerns over health and spread of diseases, many people are wary of eating at such food … [Read more...]
Khandvi – Gujarati Snack Recipe
January 6, 2012 by
Khandvi - Rolls Made With Chickpea Flour And Tempered with Spices Khandvi is an extremely popular Gujarati Snack made with Besan flour, and though it looks like a lot of work, it is actually very simple to make, and totally worth the effort! Besan is mixed with very sour buttermilk to create a lump-free blend, which is then heated, either on stove-top, or more conveniently in a Microwave, keeping … [Read more...]
Phirni (Rice Pudding) with Mixed-Berry Sauce
December 26, 2011 by
I have made Phirni before, and everyone in our family enjoys this rich and creamy Rice pudding, However, when I first came across Jagruti's version in her post about Father's Day, I was intrigued by the flavor combination and decided to give it a try. Firni is a kind of Rice Pudding, made with Powdered Rice. It is similar to what we call Kheer or Payasam in India, but made with powdered rice … [Read more...]
Sweet Potato & Basil Parathas (Flatbread)
October 31, 2011 by
Sweet Potato & Basil ParathasSweet potatoes are still in season, and I was trying to create a recipe to use them in the form of Parathas, because my daughter loves flatbreads, and its an easy way to sneak in some veggies into her system. As I mulled over the idea, my eyes fell on the pot of fresh basil growing in my garden. Instantly, an idea clicked into my head, and I knew what I was going to … [Read more...]
