September 30, 2014

Bhojana's Special MoreKuzhambu (Buttermilk Kuzhambu)

Like other traditional items of South India this Morekuzhambu also has many versions of preparation. The one which I am presenting here is the authentic one of my Mother in law's which never turns out flaw. The very special feature of this buttermilk stew is that it serves as a very good companion for Rice, Idiyappam, Sevai,Adai and Dosa varieties.

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September 29, 2014

Tip #51: Pallatable Peppercorns

Pepper the King of Spices is the most useful and indispensable of all culinary spices. Next to salt, pepper is the world’s most frequently used spice. It is used in both whole and grounded form. And no wonder—it offers a “bite” not found in any other spice.

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Ivy Gourd Shallow Fry (Kovakkai Curry)

Ivy gourd curry is a simple side dish with unique taste and colour which can be had both with rice and Chappathis. The Kovaikkai has a crunchy effect and the ripened ones should not be used since they give a sour taste. In this type I have marinated the veggies in spices to add zing to it....

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September 26, 2014

Tip #50: Obliging Oil Tips



If you're not careful, cooking with too much oil can lead to a lot of added calories (more than 100 per tablespoon for many oils). If you want to keep that calorie count down, here are some suggestions from Smart Samayal Tips for how to use oil wisely in cooking. 

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Vaazhaikkai Podimas

Vaazhaikkai podimas is a traditional curry  specially made on Virat days and served even in marriage feasts. Vazhaikkai podimas is a delicious curry  made with less oil and hence good for health. Since banana is rich in fiber the ginger is added to make the digestion easier....

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September 24, 2014

Tip #49: Practical Tips for Saving Electricity in Kitchen

When we use electricity wisely, everyone benefits- you save money and help protect the environment. Here are some simple ways to reduce your energy use in Kitchen from Smart Samayal Tips:

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Choco Peanut Burfi

festival sweets-home made chocolates

Chocolaty, drool worthy easy to make sweet with richness of peanut. My aunt's trademark recipe and comes in handy for small get togethers and functions at home...

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Gooseberry & Ginger Pickle (Nellikkai Inji Oorugai)

Gooseberries are exceptionally rich in vitC and  anti-oxidant properties. Ginger is very good for digestion. This pickle with its extraordinary taste will be a definite hit in your dining table... 

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September 23, 2014

Tip #48: Beneficial Tips on Bell Peppers (Capsicum)

Bell peppers can add a delightful zing to lots of different dishes. Not only do they come in different sizes, colors and shape, but they all pack a different punch!These peppers have a wonderful taste and texture but are not hot. They are eaten raw used in  salads or on a platter with other cut veggies and some dip.   

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September 22, 2014

Tip #47: Fascinating Tips to use Fenugreek Leaves (Venthaya keerai)

Fenugreek (Venthaya keerai) is an aromatic herbal plant that produces  brownish seeds. The seeds have a slightly bitter taste and are roasted and ground and used as a flavoring in curries. Traditional healers recommend that people suffering from digestive problems eat Methi leaves. It heals mouth ulcers.It's a great Tonic food- tones the tissues of the body Today these Smart Samayal Tips are about Fenugreek leaves:

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September 21, 2014

Tip #46: Mandatory Measuring Tips


Proper measuring of ingredients is important to successful cooking and baking. Some foods can be greatly affect by too much or too little of certain ingredients. Here are some Smart Samayal Tips for measuring techniques every cook must know:

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September 20, 2014

Tip# 45: Know Your Common Cooking Mistakes






























It happens to everyone. Despite our best efforts in the kitchen, something goes terribly wrong and the dish is tough, mushy, too salty or lumpy. Whatever the case may be, we stuck with a lousy plate of food and a bad mood. But take heart: The most common blunders are also the easiest to prevent in the future with the help of these Smart Samayal Tips...

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Delicious Eggplant Masala Curry

A different version of this Eggplant curry tastes hot and spicy and suits for both rice and any Indian bread.This curry can also be mixed with rice by adding a tea spoon of ghee and taken in Lunch box as Eggplant Rice with any crisps...

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September 19, 2014

Tip# 44: Tea with a Twist

Tea isn't simply tea in India but it is like a staple beverage here and a day without it is impossible and incomplete. Indians prefer their steaming cup of tea because it acts as an energy booster and is simply indispensable. This popular beverage has a lot of health benefits too as its antioxidants help to eliminate toxins and free radicals from the blood. Make use of these Smart Samayal Tips and enjoy different flavours of Tea...

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Ash gourd with lentils (White pumpkin Kootu)

This white pumpkin gravy made with lentils is a typical South Indian side dish and gravy made often. It is a healthy recipe which can be had as a side dish for rice or had by mixing with hot rice. This type of kootu since made with roasted spices, coconut and lentils it gives a fine aroma and hence a mouth watering one. We make this in large quantity and use it along with rice for lunch and as side dish for Chapathis for dinner....

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September 18, 2014

Tip #43: Bread Spreads Delights

Bored of eating breads with butter, jam and cheese daily. Try out these combinations given by Smart Samayal Tips  and enjoy a new taste...

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September 17, 2014

Tip #42: Kitchen Safety Tips

Follow these Smart Samayal Tips to prevent Injuries and Accidents while cooking. Cooking has lots of fun as long as you stay safe. Unattended cooking causes many accidents.

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Curry Leaves Powder and Rice (Karuveppilai Podi)

Curry leaves which are used in daily cooking has a number of health benefits. It is rich in iron and also strengthens hair root. It also enhances digestion process. This Curry leaves powder can be stored for a long time and used in different ways. This Fragrant and Yummy powder is usually had with boiled rice and on busy days it helps a lot to make lunch box ready in no time...

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September 16, 2014

Tip# 41: Fabulous Food Preservation Tips

Nobody likes to waste food. Thankfully, you can make your food last longer just by storing properly.  Food preservation is one of the oldest culinary techniques that dates back thousands of years and appears in the food history of cultures all across the globe.Make use of these Smart Samayal Tips about Food Preservation....

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September 15, 2014

Tip #40: Tremendous Turmeric

Turmeric- This spice has formed a part of Indian culture and tradition since times immemorial and is considered as an herbal remedy due to its anti-inflammatory and therapeutic properties. Being the most widely used spice, it is often referred to as the ‘Indian saffron’ It has numerous health and also Cosmetic benefits. Smart Samayal Tips tells you its Wonders....



Cold Fighting Tea

1 part Turmeric Root (dry powder or fresh root)

1 part Ginger Root (fresh preferred)

Lemon

Raw Local Honey

Chop ginger into little cubes/slices and boil the ginger (and Turmeric if it’s a fresh root) in water for 10 mins. Strain into a cup. Add a teaspoon of dried powdered turmeric and fresh squeezed lemon and honey to taste. Drink as often as you can/like in order to ward off any suggestion of a cold.


Uses of Turmeric:


  • Turmeric is said to prevent cancer and childhood leukaemia with the aid of its main component curcumin.

  • Turmeric is a natural antiseptic and antibacterial agent, useful in disinfecting cuts and burns.

  • Add some turmeric and pepper to milk, and let it boil for some time, and drink it when it is hot. Instead of sugar add Palm sugar/ Rock Candy. This would relieve throat soreness.

  • Smoke emitting from burnt turmeric serves as a strong expectorant and relieves nose blockage.

  • Turmeric has an anti-coagulant action, keeping the blood thin.

  • Turmeric prevents the formation of gas, particularly when it is added to a high protein meal.

  • Turmeric relieves inflammation of the tonsils and congestion in the throat.

  • Turmeric powder can be added to your salad dressing to provide them an orange-yellow hue. Turmeric root can also be used in salads. For this purpose, peel and chop fresh turmeric root and this can be added to any kind of salad.

  • Turmeric face mask not only helps to clear acne scars and inflammation but also reduces oil secretion by sebaceous glands. You can prepare a face pack by mixing turmeric powder and sandalwood powder and adding lemon juice to the mixture.

  • You can apply a mixture of turmeric and aloe vera gel on the burn and experience the wound heal in no time.

  • You can apply a mixture of 3 spoons of turmeric with a few drops of coconut or castor oil on your heels for 10 to 15 minutes before taking a bath. Doing this regularly will soften your heels.

     

     

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Citron Sweet and Sour Pachadi (Narthangai Pachadi)

Citron (Narthangai) has lot of medicinal value and very good for digestion. Almost every tamil family has Citron dry pickle  at home and whenever they feel that there is some indigestion problem, they take curd rice with citron pickle as remedy. This Citron Pachadi is made with Tamarind and green chillies which serves as the side dish for curd rice and also for Dosa, Adai and Chappathis...

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September 14, 2014

Tip #39: Noteworthy Nutritious Cooking Tips

Nutritious cooking begins with the good, healthy ingredients that you use to prepare your meals. Food is not only a source of calories but also source of nourishment to grow, maintain and repair tissues of the body and also prevent diseases.These Smart Samayal Tips says Preparing healthy meals is not difficult when you know the basics of nutritious cooking.

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Onion Capsicum Sesame Kuzhambu

I learnt this kuzhambu recently from my Aunt. A different kuzhambu with mouthwatering taste. It is delicious to have with hot rice and Pappad and really serves heavenly combination for Curd rice. Since sesame is a very rich source of Iron and Calcium this can be included in the regular menu....



Ingredients for making Onion Capsicum Sesame Kuzhambu:


Shallots (Pearl Onions) -  10

Capsicum - 1 (Chopped)

Red chilli powder 1 1/2 tea spoon

Sesame 3 table spoons (Dry roast it till splutters and powder it)

Sesame oil 3 table spoons

Salt to taste

Jagerry 1 table spoon

Tamarind juice 4 cups taken from a lemon sized tamarind

Red chilli 2

Mustard seeds

Fenu greek 1 tea spoon

 




Method of Making Onion Capsicum Sesame Kuzhambu:

 

Heat the kadai with the oil. 

 

Do the seasoning with mustard seeds, fenugreek, red chillies. 

 

After they splutter add the onions and capsicum and fry for a minute. 

 

Now pour the tamarind juice. 

 

Let it boil after adding salt and turmeric powder, After the raw smell of the tamarind goes add the red chilli powder and jagerry. 

 

When the gravy starts to thicken add the sesame powder. Let it boil till the oil separates. Garnish with curry leaves.


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September 13, 2014

Tip #38: Captivating Cornflour Tips

Cornflour is the finely powdered white starch extracted from maize kernels.  It is virtually tasteless and is used as a thickening agent. Bhojana's Smart Samayal Tips gives you not only its culinary uses but other surprising uses of Cornflour too...

 

 

When we make any vegetable shallow fry, in the final stage sprinkle a table spoon of cornflour to make it more crispy and magically it absorbs extra oil.


Dilute a teaspoon of cornflour and add to the boiling Spinach gravy to make it more creamy and greeny.


If you find that the dosa batter is in less quantity add 3 table spoons of corn flour and  water to get extra quantity with no compromise in taste.


Take wheat flour, Corn flour and Besan flour in the proportion 3:1:1/2 and knead to dough with milk and water. Make Chapathis out of this and enjoy.


For stew, Kurma and Kootu mix 2 tea spoons of corn flour in ordinary milk and add to the gravy to replace coconut milk.


If any vegetable curry is left over, add a cup of mashed potatoes and 2 table spoon of corn flour and salt to it and mix well. make them into balls and roll on bread crumps. Slightly press them to flat. Shallow fry on tawa to get a crispy and healthy snack.

 

 Mix a table spoon of cornflour in milk and add to any soup and stir well to get a rich and creamy effect.

 

In the place of rice four during emergency corn flour can be substituted while making wheat or rava dosai.

 

Clean Up Grease and Oil Stains on Carpeting by Pouring some cornstarch on the affected area and let it sit for about 20 minutes. Vacuum it up and now the stain is gone.

 

Has your silver lost its luster? Shine it right up again by making a paste with cornstarch and water. Apply the paste to the silver. After it has dried, wipe and buff clean.

 

Have too much fun this summer? Make a paste out of cornstarch and water and apply it on the affected area(Sun burn). Let the paste dry and then remove using lukewarm water.

 

Sprinkle some cornstarch on a stubborn knot to help untangle it with ease.


 


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September 12, 2014

Tip #37: Simple Strategies & Techniques in Cooking (Part-2)


Simplifying strategies, tips, and techniques to be followed in Kitchen which are collected from different sources are here for you from Bhojana's Smart Samayal Tips.....

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September 11, 2014

Tip #36: Awesome Coconut Tips

Coconuts have a multitude of culinary applications from sweet to savory dishes, from drinks, to appetizers, soups, salads, main courses to desserts, sweets, ice cream. The list is endless.It has numerous health benefits if eaten raw.  Raw coconut when chewed cures the mouth ulcer.

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September 10, 2014

Tip #35: Delicious Banana Tips

There are many ways to eat Banana. It is consumed as a casual fruit and liked for its taste, texture and fullness. We often get the situation of having lot of ripened bananas at home and compel everybody to have it without wasting. Here are some Smart Samayal Tips to make Bananas a special Fruit...

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Spicy Rajma Masala (Spicy Kidney Beans Masala)


Rajma masala made of Red kidney beans  is a healthy and delicious Punjabi side dish cooked in Tomato pulp with basic Indian Spices. Rajma masala satiates your taste buds when had either with Indian bread varieties or Hot Rice.

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September 08, 2014

Wheat Flour Iddiyappam (Wheat Flour String Hoppers)

A nourishing, delicious and healthy breakfast loved by all age groups.Easy to make and tasty to eat. Easily digestible since it is a steamed food.  Highly recommended for the Diabetic people also...

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September 06, 2014

Tip #31: Wonders of Coconut Oil

Cooking with coconut oil is great since it has such a high smoke point, or burning point. This means that you can cook at higher temperatures without burning the oil and damaging it’s properties. Coconut oil if used regularly in right quantity yields lots of benefits. Here are the wonders of Coconut oil from Smart Samayal Tips:

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Keerai Poricha Kootu (Spinach pepper gravy)

This is a traditional way of making greens with pepper, cumin seed and coconut. It goes very well with tangy Kuzhambu  like Vathakuzhambu or Kaara Kuzhambu. This nutritious and tasty kootu can also be had with plain rice and pappad...

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September 05, 2014

Semiya Payasam (Vermicelli Kheer)

A very common sweet accompaniment with Lunch or Dinner in South India is Vermicelli kheer. It is very easy to make and very delicious with the taste of Milk and Nuts....

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September 03, 2014

Tip #29: Creative Tips to use Ice Cube Trays!!!

Most of us take out the Ice Cube Trays only during summer and after summer is over we totally forget about it. Ice cube trays are not just for ice. These Ice cube Trays can be used for different Creative Purposes and Today's  Smart Samayal Tips from Bhojana is about this...

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September 02, 2014

Tip #28: Best ways to Refrigerate Vegetables and Fruits

Bhojana's Smart Samayal Tips gives you some suggestions  to store your Veggies and Fruits  as fresh as possible and prevent them from decaying...

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Cabbage Ginger Curry

Cabbage is the common vegetable and we use it regularly in our cooking. When ginger and green chilli are added to cabbage it gives out a fine aroma and it blends very well with cabbage. Try this version and enjoy with your meals...

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