Tag: heart healthy

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Haldi Doodh (Golden Milk)

Growing up in an Indian household meant turning to natural and food remedies for minor ailments.  If you had a tummy ache, Mom made us eat carom seeds or even cumin seeds.  If we had a cold sore in the mouth, she would make us keep a clove on the sore for a few hours.  There are so many more remedies that my mom and grandmother used but the one I remember and is most popular these days is turmeric.

As soon the cold weather set in or the first cough or sneeze of the season was heard, my mother would add turmeric to everything we ate.  She would also make us drink Haldi Doodh or turmeric milk before bed each night.  As a child, I hated this.  As an adult and a mom, it is now my go to.  Over the years, I’ve changed it from the basic turmeric and milk to adding a few new ingredients.  Take a look!

  • Turmeric – the most important ingredient as it has natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.  The powder form is most commonly used though sometimes, I do use the actual root.
  • Black Pepper – has anti-inflammatory properties and improves brain function.  It is most important in this recipe because it activates the curcumin properties in turmeric therefore making the turmeric much more effective.
  • Honey – is full of antioxidants, antibacterial, and antifungul properties.  It’s also an age old remedy used to help sore throats.
  • Cardamom pods – have antioxidant and diuretic properties, and is rich in compounds that help fight against inflammation.
  • Ginger – also has anti-inflammatory properties, helps lower blood sugars, and improve heart disease risk factors.  Ginger also helps fight against bacteria and viruses which can help reduce the risk for infections.
  • Cinnamon – is also loaded with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.  In addition, it helps lower blood sugar levels, and helps fight bacterial and fungal infections.

Basically, every spice added to this recipe has anti-inflammatory or antioxidant properties or both.  I normally use cow’s milk when I make this for the kids but I have made it with almond milk and it has turned out just as good.  I do recommend not to use sweetened milk if you are using a plant based milk as it changes the taste of the final product.

Here’s to wishing a healthy winter and a Happy New Year with my first recipe this year!

Haldi Doodh (Golden Milk)

Haldi Doodh (Golden Milk)
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Sapna
January 12, 2022
by Sapna
Category Beverages Indian
Persons
2
Serving Size
1 cup
Cook Time
15 minutes
Total Time
15 minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 c milk (cow's or plant based - make sure it's unsweetened)
  • 3/4 tsp turmeric powder or 1" turmeric root, grated
  • 4 cardamom pods, slightly crushed
  • 1/2" ginger, grated
  • 5-6 whole peppercorns
  • 1" cinnamon stick
  • 1 Tbsp Honey (can substitute maple syrup to make vegan)

Instructions

  1. Add milk to a small saucepan and heat on medium flame for 1-2 minutes.
  2. Add in the turmeric and whisk well to incorporate.
  3. Add in the remaining spices and mix well.
  4. Simmer for 5-7 minutes. Remove from flame and let it steep for another 5 minutes.
  5. Strain into mugs.
  6. Drink warm.

Tags

15 minute meals,
Ayurvedic,
Clean Eating,
Eat your colors,
Gluten Free,
Haldi Doodh,
Healthy,
heart healthy,
Kid Friendly,
Quick and Easy,
turmeric,
Vegan,
vegetarian
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Farmer’s Market Crudites Platter with Hummus Two Ways

One of my favorite times of the year is the spring when the Farmer’s Market starts to get bigger with more and more farmers who start to bring a larger variety of produce and goodies.  I’ve mentioned in the past that I like to make a menu for the week (more so my kids don’t complain they want something else than what is served), but what I haven’t mentioned is how I love going to the Farmer’s Market to do my weekly produce shopping.  Sometimes, I will even tailor some of my dishes to include produce I find at the Market.

Recently, I partnered with our local Farmer’s Market (Danville Farmer’s Market) and I will be creating recipes for them a few times a month in the hopes that I can bring awareness to locally farmed produce at all of our farmer’s market.  Having fresh, organic produce and supporting the local farms is a win-win.

This Spring Crudites Platter is so beautiful, we all had a bit of hard time digging in.  No one wanted to mess it up.  Ah well, our stomachs won that round.  The beauty of this platter is that you are not restricted to the same produce I picked up.  Pick up what your farmer’s market has, just make it colorful.

Here is what I used:

  • Purple Cauliflower (chop these into big chunks)
  • Rainbow Baby Carrots (trim the stems off and save to make pesto – be sustainable!)
  • Radishes
  • Watermelon Radishes (slice these a little thick into rounds to give a beautiful effect)
  • Snap Peas
  • Cucumbers (I sliced these on the diagonal for aesthetics.  Feel free to slice into rounds or sticks to make them easier to serve)
  • Cherry Tomatoes

As for the hummus, I chose purple sweet potato and red beets to be the base of each hummus.  For the Red Beets, I roasted it with garlic, then pulsed it with a little tahini and a few other ingredients.  This is by far one of my favorite variations on hummus.  Paired with all that beautiful produce, it’s perfect!

For the Purple Sweet Potato, I baked it in the oven then pulsed it with tahini as well.  Though the idea behind both hummus’ are the same, the flavor profile differ vastly.  Yet both are addicting.

I hope you have a chance to make a beautiful Spring Crudites Platter like this for your next gathering.  I promise you will love it.

Try it out and let me know what you think!

Spring Crudites Platter with Hummus Two Ways

Spring Crudites Platter with Hummus Two Ways
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Sapna
June 3, 2021
by Sapna
Category Appetizers Vegetarian
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
40 minutes
Wait Time
5 minutes
Total Time
55 minutes

Ingredients

For the Crudites:

  • 1 lb rainbow baby carrots, stems trimmed, scrubbed and peeled
  • 1 watermelon radish, peeled and sliced into thick rounds
  • 1 lb snap peas
  • 1 head purple cauliflower, cut into large florets
  • 1 bunch radishes, washed and stems trimmed
  • 3-4 baby cucumbers, sliced into sticks or thick rounds
  • 12 oz cherry tomatoes

For the Purple Sweet Potato Hummus:

  • 2 large purple sweet potatoes, scrubbed, keep peel on
  • 1/2 c canned chickpeas
  • 1/4 c tahini
  • 1/3 c aquafaba
  • 6 cloves garlic**
  • 2 Tbsp fresh squeezed lemon juice
  • 2 Tbsp Olive Oil
  • 1/2 tsp cumin powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp fresh ground black pepper

For the Roasted Beet and Garlic Hummus:

  • 2 large beets, peeled
  • 1 14.5 oz can chickpeas, drained and rinsed, reserve liquid
  • 1/4 c tahini
  • 3 Tbsp fresh squeezed lemon juice
  • 6 cloves garlic**
  • 1/3 c Olive Oil
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
  2. Place sweet potatoes, beets, and garlic in individual foil sheets. Drizzle beets and garlic with olive oil. Wrap each food tightly into a ball and place on a baking sheet. Bake for 40 minutes.
  3. Remove and let cool before opening the foil wraps.

For the Sweet Potato Hummus:

  1. Remove foil wrap and peel skin. Chop into rough chunks and add to food processor. Add roasted garlic cloves and the rest of the ingredients. Blend until smooth (about 2-3 minutes).
  2. Transfer to a bowl and garnish with parsley, a drizzle of oil, and/or roasted chickpeas.

For the Roasted Beet and Garlic Hummus:

  1. Remove beets from foil and chop into rought chunks.
  2. Add into food processor with roasted garlic and the remaining ingredients.
  3. Blend until smooth (about 2-3 minutes)
  4. Transfer to a bowl and garnish with roasted chickpeas, toasted sesame seeds, and/or a drizzle of olive oil.

To Assemble the Crudites platter:

  1. Place the bowls of the hummus in the center of the platter. Add the larger veggies first, i.e. cauliflower and carrots.
  2. Fill in with medium sized veggies, i.e. cucumbers and snap peas.
  3. Add the smaller veggies, i.e. radishes and cherry tomatoes.
  4. Finally garnish with watermelon radish slices and edible flowers if you have any.
  5. Enjoy!

Notes

**Note:  I used a whole bulb of garlic and divided between the two hummus dips as I knew I was making them at the same time (and a little extra garlic is always appreciated).  If you are making only one hummus dip, follow the instructions of roasting cloves instead of the whole bulb.  


Tags

Appetizers,
Clean Eating,
dairy free,
Eat a Rainbow,
Eat your colors,
Fiber,
Gluten Free,
Healthy,
heart healthy,
Kid Friendly,
make ahead,
Protein,
Raw Foods,
Sustainable,
Vegan,
vegetarian,
Veggies
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If you are looking for more delicious recipes, check these out:
Roasted Masala Chickpeas
Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
Spicy Garlic Hummus
Crispy Chickpeas and Sweet Potato Tacos

Sapna2 Comments

Fig and Chia Pudding Parfait

If I had to choose any other fruit besides mango, figs would definitely take second place.  The soft exterior, the honey sweet flesh, and the crunch of the seeds as you eat each one is just heaven.  Pair it with chia pudding topped with fresh baked granola and garnished with a sprig of mint, well, you just won’t want anything else for breakfast!

Continue reading “Fig and Chia Pudding Parfait” →

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One Pan Baked Salmon and Rainbow Veggies

This one pan salmon is perfect for a busy weeknight meal.  Ready in 15 minutes, it’s a nutritious meal the whole family will enjoy!

I love the idea of using just one pot or a pan.  Not only is cleanup easy but you don’t spend forever in the kitchen cooking after a long hard day of work.  Don’t get me wrong, the kitchen is my happy place.  But weeknights are crazy when the kids are hungry and don’t have the patience to wait for me to cook an elaborate dinner.

My favorite part is that the girls eat the rainbow veggies I add on the side.  The colors look so pretty and the girls love their rainbows as much as I do.  Chopping the veggies and seasoning them doesn’t take very long and adding that glaze on the salmon with a little honey and mustard mix is perfect to brighten up the salmon.

I kept the seasoning for the veggies pretty simple – salt, pepper, and a little dried oregano.  Why?  Because I want the salmon to shine too.  The veggies have their color that attracts you to them so the salmon should have something too, right?  The glaze is very easy to make.  Just mix a little dijon mustard, honey, garlic, and of course fresh squeezed lemon juice.  Brush it on to the salmon and voila!  All that is left to do is bake!

From my kitchen to yours, I hope you enjoy this easy and delicious One Pan Salmon with Rainbow Veggies!

One Pan Baked Salmon and Rainbow Veggies

One Pan Baked Salmon and Rainbow Veggies
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Sapna
March 26, 2021
by Sapna
Category Meats
Persons
3
Serving Size
1 filet
Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Total Time
20 minutes

Ingredients

  • 3 salmon filets
  • 1 c cherry tomatoes
  • 1 bunch asparagus spears, chopped into 1" stems
  • 1 yellow squash, sliced into 1" half moons
  • 1 orange bell pepper, sliced into 1" cubes
  • 1/2 purple onion, 1" slices
  • 1 Tbsp Olive or Avocado Oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 Tbsp dried oregano

For the glaze:

  • 1 Tbsp dijon mustard
  • 1 Tbsp honey
  • 2 tsp minced garlic
  • 2 tsp fresh squeezed lemon juice
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
  2. Line up all the veggies on a sheet pan as well as the salmon filets.
  3. Drizzle the oil over all of the veggies, and then season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Gently mix to make sure the seasonings have evenly coated the veggies.
  4. In a small bowl, combine all of the ingredients for the glaze and whisk well to emulsify.
  5. Using a pastry brush, brush the glaze onto the salmon (if you are using skinless salmon, make sure to brush both sides of the salmon).
  6. Bake for 13-15 minutes in the oven then remove.
  7. Let cool for 1-2 minutes before serving.

Notes

Notes:
*I prefer to use fresh salmon for this recipe, however, if you are using frozen salmon, make sure to thaw it at room temperature to allow for even cooking time.  
*If you would like a crispy crust, stop baking 1-2 minutes early, change oven setting to broil and keep in oven for another 2-3 minutes after the baking time is over.  Watch carefully so as not to burn.  


Tags

15 minute meals,
Clean Eating,
dairy free,
Eat a Rainbow,
Eat your colors,
Gluten Free,
Healthy,
heart healthy,
Kid Friendly,
nut free,
Paleo,
Protein,
Quick and Easy,
Veggies,
weeknight meals
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Sapna1 Comment

Roasted Rainbow Veggies

Roasting vegetables is one of my favorite ways to eat any vegetable.  Having several different colors and cooking them together is the best in my book!  You get plenty of vitamins and minerals and the different colors are just so pretty to look at!  These Roasted Rainbow Veggies are the perfect way to serve your veggies for adults and kids, making them fun, easy, and healthy.

Rainbows have always been popular in our home,  with me always telling my girls to eat their colors and the girls loving anything to do with rainbows, unicorns, and princesses.  Roasting the veggies in a rainbow on a sheet pan is about the easiest recipe I have ever made.  The vast array of vitamins and minerals that we get to eat with our dinner makes this one of my healthiest recipes.

For my colors, I chose beets, carrots, yellow squash, asparagus, and purple potato.  You don’t have to stick to those same colors.  Honestly, go for what you find in your fridge.  Here are a few ideas to get you started for your own Roasted Rainbow Veggies:

RED: beets, tomatoes, red bell pepper
ORANGE: carrots, butternut squash, acorn squash, pumpkin
YELLOW: yellow squash, yellow bell pepper, golden beets, yellow onions
GREEN: zucchini, broccoli, asparagus, brussels sprouts
BLUE/PURPLE: purple sweet potatoes, purple carrots, eggplant, purple onions

So now that you have options, how do you make your own Roasted Rainbow Veggies?  All you need is a good chopping board, a sharp knife, and a sheet pan.  As to the flavors, my standard is to add a little dried oregano for taste with salt, pepper, and olive oil.  Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes (times do vary based on the type of veggies you choose), and serve it up with any dinner.

I can’t wait to see what veggies you chose to make your rainbow.  Be sure to let me know in the comments or tag me on Instagram or Facebook!

From my kitchen to yours, I hope you enjoy these quick, delicious, and healthy Roasted Rainbow Veggies!

Roasted Rainbow Veggies

Roasted Rainbow Veggies
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Sapna
March 17, 2021
by Sapna
Category Appetizers
Persons
4
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
25 minutes
Total Time
35 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 large beet, peeled and chopped in 1" cubes
  • 3-4 med sized carrots, peeled, sliced in rounds
  • 1 yellow squash, chopped in half moons
  • 1 bunch asparagus, chopped in 1" pieces
  • 1 purple sweet potato, peeled and chopped in 1" cubes
  • 2 Tbsp Olive Oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried Oregano

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
  2. Arrange all the veggies on a sheet pan, then drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano.
  3. Give the veggies a quick toss to incorporate the oil and seasoning.
  4. Bake for 25-30 minutes.
  5. Remove from oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes before serving.

Tags

30 minute meals,
Clean Eating,
dairy free,
Eat a Rainbow,
Eat your colors,
Fiber,
Gluten Free,
Healthy,
heart healthy,
Kid Friendly,
Quick and Easy,
Sustainable,
Vegan,
vegetarian,
weeknight meals
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Sapna4 Comments

Mahi Mahi with Garlic Lemon Sauce

If I gave my youngest Fish and Couscous everyday for the rest of her life, I wouldn’t hear a single complaint.  She loves it that much and we usually have it on the menu biweekly.  The Garlic Lemon Sauce is absolutely finger licking delicious!  Paired with a flaky and tender Mahi Mahi, well, you will also be adding this fish to your rotation.

Everyone says eating fish is healthy and to incorporate it more in your diet.  But why?  Here are few good reasons why:

  • Fish are high in Omega-3 fatty acids which help lower cholesterol and heart disease
  • Rich in Iron
  • Rich in Vit. B which promotes healthy brain function
  • Rich in Potassium which promotes a healthy heart


Fish can be tricky to cook sometimes because it is very easy to overcook leading to a tough meat (trust me, I’ve done this on many occasions).  A few tricks I rely on to serve the best flaky fish are:

  • Be sure your filtes are about 6-7oz each, with at least 1-inch thickness. If your portions are thin or too small, they’ll tend to overcook.
  • Always pat dry excess moisture from the fish; this step is super important, as it affects how well your fish will brown. A paper towel works wonders
  • Buy fresh or quick-frozen, high quality fish… wild is best, and will provide best flavor.

Don’t know what to serve your delicious Mahi Mahi with?  Check out some of these dishes:
Quinoa, Brown Rice and Black Beans
Fresco Carpaccio

From my kitchen to yours, I hope you enjoy this delicious Mahi Mahi with Lemon Garlic Sauce!

Mahi Mahi with Garlic Lemon Sauce

Mahi Mahi with Garlic Lemon Sauce
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Sapna
February 24, 2021
by Sapna
Category Meats
Persons
4
Serving Size
1 filet
Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time
7 minutes
Total Time
12 minutes

Ingredients

  • 4 (1" thick each) Mahi-Mahi fillets, 4-6 oz each
  • 1 1/2 Tbsp Olive Oil
  • 2 1/4 tsp salt
  • 2 1/4 tsp black pepper, divided
  • 2 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 Tbsp dried parsley)
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 Tbsp juice squeezed from fresh lemon

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, combine 1/4 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, butter, parsley, garlic, and lemon juice. Mix ingredients to fully combine. Set aside.
  2. Use paper towels to pat-dry all excess moisture from the fish fillets.
  3. Season both sides of fillets with remaining salt and black pepper. Set aside. I
  4. n a large skillet, heat the olive oil over high heat. Once oil is sizzling hot, add the fish fillets to pan and cook until browned on one side, about 3 minutes – do not move or touch the fish.
  5. After the fish has browned, flip fish fillets over to the other side and continue cooking for an additional 3 minutes.
  6. When the fish is done, remove from heat and pour mixture over the cooked fish. Be sure to pour on any juices from the fish pan as well.
  7. Serve hot with your favorite sides!

Tags

15 minute meals,
Clean Eating,
Fish,
Gluten Free,
heart healthy,
Keto,
Kid Friendly,
Lemon Garlic,
Mahi Mahi,
Protein,
Quick and Easy
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Sapna2 Comments

Pomegranate Pistachio Chia Pudding

I was a little late to the wagon on this one.  Everyone was talking about Chia Pudding but I kept putting it off unsure if I would like it or not.  This is where my kids remind me how I preach that they should always try everything once.

Yeah, well.  I should have tried this a long time ago!

A while ago, we went to my sister-in-law Sarika’s place for brunch and one of the things she had made was Chia pudding with fruit and granola.  It was pretty darn good!  So I stopped dragging my feet and decided to make my own at home.

I played around with flavors and the best part is you can pretty much add any fruit and nut to this.  Our favorite so far is the pistachio pomegranate combination.  The sweet, the salty, the creamy and crunchy just have this perfect balance with each other that I cannot get enough of.  It keeps the pudding light enough yet still so healthy!  YUM!

Not only is it delicious, but healthy too!  They are:

  • Rich in omega 3 fatty acids
  • Fiber
  • Calcium
  • Phosphorous
  • Zinc

Try it out and let me know what you think!

From my kitchen to yours, I hope you enjoy this delicious Pomegranate Pistachio Chia Pudding!

Pomegranate Pistachio Chia Pudding

Pomegranate Pistachio Chia Pudding
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Sapna
January 29, 2021
by Sapna
Category Breakfast
Persons
2
Serving Size
1 bowl
Prep Time
3 minutes
Wait Time
2 minutes
Total Time
3 minutes

Ingredients

  • 8 oz Almond Coconut Milk (or any milk of your preference)
  • 4 Tbsp Chia Seeds
  • pinch of salt
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 c pomegranate arils
  • 2-3 Tbsp pistachios, roughly chopped

Instructions

  1. In an airtight glass jar, add the milk, chia seeds, salt, and vanilla extract. Mix really well either with a spoon or by tightening the lid and shaking the jar. The seeds do tend to clump up so make sure you mix until there is no clumping.
  2. Store in the refrigerator overnight or at least 2 hours to let it gelatinize.
  3. To serve:
  4. Divide the pudding between two bowls. Top with pomegranate arils and chopped pistachios. Enjoy cold!

Notes

**I prefer to keep mine refrigerated overnight but this pudding is edible after it has been in the fridge for at least 2 hours.  

**You can absolutely double or triple this batch with the same results.  If I'm doing a big batch, I'll store it in a larger container and take out my preferred amount each day.  Chia pudding will last up to 4 days in the fridge once made. 


Tags

Chia Pudding,
Fiber,
heart healthy,
nutrient dense,
Protein,
Sweet and Salty
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Sapna2 Comments

Bhinda Bataka nu Shaak / Okra Potato Sabzi

Growing up, my mom would make traditional Gujarati food for dinner most days.  My brother and I loved eating a Gujarati thaali (not all the time) and one of my favorites was Bhinda Bataka nu Shaak.  The crunchy exterior of the potato that’s just soft enough to melt on the inside and the crispy okra to finish off the dish is just the perfect reminder of home to me.
IMG_7418
Yum

When I made this dish, I was so excited to share my love for it with kids.  I’ll be honest though, they didn’t take to the okra which broke my heart.  Sort of.  They ate the potatoes though.  But I’m going to keep trying to share my love of okra and hope one day they do like it as much as I do.
IMG_7441
But okra is so slimy!

Trust me, I know!  So my hack…. use frozen or pre-cut okra.  And fresh squeezed lemon juice.  Wait, what?  Yep, lemon juice helps break down the slime without turning your veggies into mush.
IMG_7434
Want to know something even more cool?  The “slime” (known as mucilage) actually contains soluble fiber.  Here are a few more benefits of eating okra:

  • High in antioxidants such as beta-carotene, xanthin, and lutein
  • Good source of Folate
  • Good source of Vit. C, Vit. A, and Vit. K
  • Good source of Non-Dairy Calcium, Iron, Manganese, and Magnesium

So try this delicious sabzi for your next Gujarati thaali.  It’s delicious and healthy and so easy to make.  Try it out!
IMG_7421
From my kitchen to yours, I hope this dish brings you the joy it brings me.

Bhinda Bataka nu Shaak / Okra Potato Sabzi

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Sapna
July 6, 2020
by Sapna
Cuisine Indian
Category Indian
Persons
4
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
25 minutes
Total Time
40 minutes

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. In a medium skillet, heat oil over medium flame.  Add mustard seeds, cumin seeds and hing.
  2. When the seeds start to splutter, add in the turmeric and cayenne pepper and let it cook to bloom for about 30 seconds.
  3. Add in garlic and tomatoes.  Cook until water from the tomatoes has evaporated.
  4. Add potatoes, coriander powder and salt.  Mix well.
  5. Add in the water and mix.  Cover and cook for 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and most of the water has evaporated.
  6. Add in the okra and mix well.  Cover and cook for another 7-8 minutes.
  7. Uncover and add in the lemon juice.
  8. Turn heat up to med-high and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to make sure the veggies don't stick to the bottom of the pan.  You want them to be just crispy on the outside.
  9. Turn off heat, and garnish with serrano peppers and/or cilantro.
  10. Serve hot with Roti or Rice or as part of a Gujarati thaali!

Notes

If you're using frozen okra, make sure you thaw them out, and pat them dry with a paper towel as you would with fresh okra.


Tags

30 minute meals,
Antioxidant Food,
dairy free,
Desi Khana,
Easy meals,
Gluten Free,
gujarati,
Healthy,
heart healthy,
homemade,
Indian Food,
Indian Food Blogger,
Non Dairy Calcium,
nut free,
okra,
potatoes,
shaak,
Sustainable,
Vegan,
vegetarian
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Sapna1 Comment

Adai Waffles / Lentil Waffles

By now, I’m sure you’ve heard of my friend Janani. I’ve mentioned her in a few recipes, especially the Greek Inspired Crepes and Instant Pot Kali Dal. She and I met when we were both about 7 months pregnant with our first child at an Indian store where the owner introduced us. We have been pretty close friends since and shared many recipes during our play dates and this one is inspired by her.wp-1592520709205.jpg
Yum
When Aishani was a few months old, I remember Janani came over for a play date with her eldest. She brought over this batter and asked if I had veggies she could use. I was extremely curious as Sanaya was in a picky phase (honestly, I feel both my kids have always been in a picky phase!).wp-1592520709227.jpg

She explained what Adai is and I was instantly fascinated. Basically, it is a batter made out of 4 different lentils and a little bit of rice, soaked, ground, and cooked over the stove with veggies similar to a dosa or crepe fashion. So with one meal, I’m getting protein, fiber, non-dairy calcium, folic acid, and plenty of vitamins and minerals from the veggies. Seriously, major mom win! My kids love it and eat it with yogurt and it’s a family hit.wp-1592520709178.jpg

The basic batter recipe is Janani’s. I’ve never tried to change it because it’s perfect and it works. I did play around with it and turned the Adai crepes into waffles. It’s something fun for the kids; they get a kick out of eating waffles for lunch or dinner and I know it’s one of the healthiest waffles around! The texture keeps well and tastes so soft and fluffy. It’s really delicious.wp-1592520709677.jpg

For the girls, I served this with yogurt as that’s their favorite way of eating Adai. For the hubby and I, we had a topping of masala salsa on top which tasted amazing and completed this dish for us!

From our kitchen to yours, we hope you love these Adai Waffles!


Adai Waffles

  • Servings: 4
  • Difficulty: easy
  • Print

A savory lentil waffle filled with veggies that is healthy and delicious.

Notes:

1. The ratio of all the lentils and rice is always 1:1. Whether you want to make a lesser amount or more, the ratio before soaking will remain the same.

2. It is important to soak these lentils at least 4 hours. Soaking lentils helps remove the phytic acid which impairs the absorption of nutrients such iron, zinc and calcium.

3. If you make extra, and want to keep it for future use, you can store in the freezer. Just be sure to keep the batter plain without adding any of the ingredients as it will ruin when you thaw it out. Stores well up to 3 months in the freezer. Stores well up to 3 days in the fridge.

4. Parboiled or Idli rice works great for this recipe. If you don’t have it, regular jasmine rice works, but just be aware that when it is ground, you will get a bit of a grainy texture.

5. It is important to shred the veggies to help them and the lentils cook through properly. If the veggies are chopped and chunky, the lentils may not cook through completely (I speak from experience).

6. Use any veggies you have in your fridge. I’ve listed our favorites below.

Ingredients:

For the batter:

½ c toor / toovar dal

½ c urad dal

½ c chana dal

½ c red masoor dal

½ c idli rice / parboiled rice

1-2 dried red chilies

For the Waffles:

1 zucchini, shredded

1 large carrot, shredded

½ c broccoli, shredded

1″ ginger knob, shredded

1 tsp hing (asafoetida)

1 tsp salt

For the Masala Salsa:

½ c onions, chopped finely

1 tomato, chopped finely

1 serrano pepper, chopped finely (for a less spicy option, take out the seeds and ribs)

¼ c cilantro, chopped finely

1 lemon, juiced

1 tsp salt

1 tsp cayenne pepper

1 tsp chaat masala

Directions:

For the Masala Salsa:

1. Mix all of the ingredients tog⁸ether in a bowl and set aside to use for topping.

For the Adai Batter:

1. Soak each of the lentils and rice separately in water at least for 4 hours, preferably overnight.

2. Once they are soaked, add rice (drained of water) and red chilies to a blender with 3 Tbsp water. Blend to a thick batter.

3. Transfer to a bowl and repeat process with the lentils. If you want to combine them and blend them, that works also. Add water a little at a time so the batter is not too thin.

4. Mix this batter with the rice batter.

This batter is your base. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer and use as needed.

For the Waffles:

1. In a bowl, add 1½ c Adai batter, hing and salt. Mix well.

2. Fold in the shredded veggies. If the batter is too thick, add in water, 1 Tbsp at a time, but don’t make the batter too thin and runny.

3. Heat the waffle maker on high and spray both sides with cooking spray.

4. Using a ladle, pour the batter into the waffle maker and spread across. Close the waffle maker and seal or flip and let it cook as a regular waffle.

5. Remove the waffle and repeat the process for the remaining batter.

6. To serve, spoon some of the masala salsa on top of the waffles and serve hot!

Serve with masala salsa, yogurt, mango pickle or all 3!

Enjoy!

Sapna1 Comment

Instant Pot Black Eyed Peas Curry

When Sanaya, my eldest, was about 3 years old, we had gone to Pankaj’s cousin’s house for a play date.  Sanaya and her cousin Aarya are besties.  They’re only 2 months apart in age and our families have gone through the journey of parenting together since we were pregnant.

Anyways, this story is from a time when Sanaya was very picky about food, especially Indian food.  Though I feel like in her short life, she’s either been picky or a proper foodie.  Kids!
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Yum

My sister-in-law, Aarya’s mother had made a black eyed peas curry.  I remember growing up my mom making this often so I got excited but nervous also.  Will Saanu eat it?  Will she like it?  I’m hoping she likes it because I’m really trying to get the girls to have an appreciation for Indian food.
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Surprisingly, and luckily, she loved it and for once, ate most of her food without a fuss.  I felt like I found a magical key.  Since then, this is one recipe I make often for the girls, especially when I’m in a pinch as it takes less than 30 minutes to make.
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These black eyed peas are perfect for a weeknight meal.  Not only are they delicious and quick to make, they are also rich in fiber, protein and non-dairy calcium.
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Notes:
I soak them at the beginning of meal prep.  If you don’t want to soak them, simply increase the cook time from 12 minutes to 20.

You can store any leftovers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

For Stovetop: Soak black eyed peas for at least 1 hour.  Then boil them in 4 cups of water for 45 minutes.  Drain and add to spices as indicated in step 5.  Add only 1 c water and cook for an additional 15 minutes.

For Slow Cooker:  Follow directions below and cook on low for 6 hours.

From my kitchen to yours, I hope you enjoy this Dal (Lentil)!


Instant Pot Black Eyed Peas Curry

  • Servings: 4
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Ingredients:

1 c dried black eyed peas, soaked

1 onion, chopped

2 tomatoes, chopped

4 garlic cloves, minced

1″ ginger knob, grated

1 bay leaf

1 tsp cayenne pepper

½ tsp turmeric

2 tsp coriander powder

1 tsp garam masala

1 tsp salt

2 c water for cooking

1 Tbsp lemon juice

1 Tbsp olive oil

1 tsp cumin seeds

½ tsp hing (asafoetida)

Directions:

1. Set Instant pot to saute mode.  Add oil and let heat.

2. Add cumin seeds and hing.

3. When the cumin seeds start to splutter, add in onions, ginger and garlic.  Saute for 3-5 minutes, until the onions are tender and translucent.

4. Add in the tomatoes and spices and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the oil starts separating from the tomatoes.

5. Drain the water from the black eyed peas and add to the instant pot.  Add the 2 c water and mix well.

6. Cover instant pot and set vent to sealing postion.

7. Change setting to manual/pressure cook mode and set timer for 12 minutes.

8. When the timer goes off, let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before releasing the remaining pressure.

9. Add lemon juice and give a quick stir before serving.

Serve with Naan or Rice.

Sapna2 Comments

Apple Pie Oatmeal Yum

I really had to find a way to sell eating oatmeal to my kids.  We went through a phase where they loved oatmeal then, for the past 6 months, just the name would send them running in fear as if I was punishing them.

So, what does any desperate mother do?  Change the name, feed the same food, and take the win.  Seriously, I love this game where they think they won, and I know I definitely did!
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When I first started making steel cut oats, it was a dump and turn on the machine type deal.  You can absolutely still do that with this recipe instead of roasting the oats.  I just love to do that because it gives it a little more of a nutty flavor and aroma.  We are all busy these days and need more time so if you don’t have enough to roast the oats, don’t worry – the oatmeal will still taste just as great.  (Side note, I do not roast the oats in the slow cooker as it takes forever to heat up – at least for me – and I don’t have the patience for that).

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I love this recipe because it is so easy to make and you can batch cook it so it lasts you for a few days.  Let’s face it, life is crazy for a lot of us, between working from home, homeschooling children and just trying to keep sane.  My favorite method of cooking this recipe is either in a slow cooker or an instant pot as you don’t have to spend so much time watching over it.  It is therapeutic to just stand over the stove and stir it until it cooks (as I practice to zone out the kids bickering who will get a certain spoon or sit in a specific spot).
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I’ve made it all three ways so I know it turns out delicious regardless of your method of cooking.  The ratios below are for 4-6 servings.  You can double or triple the amount without any change in flavor and store it in the fridge for 2-3 days.  Just add a little milk or water when you are reheating it to loosen it up a bit.
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From my kitchen to yours, I hope you and your family enjoy this apple pie oatmeal!

Ingredients:
2 apples, peeled, cored and diced (reserve ½ apple, chopped for topping)
2 c almond milk
1 c water
1 c steel cut oats
2 Tbsp Brown Sugar
2 tsp cinnamon powder
2 Tbsp ground flaxseed
1 Tbsp EVOO or Avo Oil
¼ tsp salt
¼ c chopped walnuts

Directions:
For Instant Pot:
Set to sauté mode and heat up oil.  Add the oats and roast for 3-5 minutes.  Add in the apples and mix for 1 minute.  Add in the remaining ingredients and cover instant pot with vent in sealing position.  Change setting to pressure cook or manual and set time for 5 minutes.  When the instant pot beeps, do a 20 minute NPR (natural pressure release).  Release the steam left in the vent and open up the instant pot.  Add remaining apples and walnuts for topping and enjoy hot!

For Slow Cooker:
Spray the inside of your slow cooker with a little cooking spray to prevent burning and sticking.
Mix all ingredients and cover overnight.  Set a delay start for 4 hours with a cooking time for 4 hours on high heat.  Remove cover and stir to combine evenly.  Serve hot with toppings and enjoy!

For Stovetop:
Heat a large saucepan over medium heat and add in the oil.  Add the oats and roast for 3-5 minutes.  Add in the apples and mix for 1 minute.Add in the remaining ingredients and stir continuously for the first 3-5 minutes until the oats start thickening.  Cook for 35 minutes, stirring frequently.  As they start to become creamy and thick, you may want to lower the heat.  Once they are cooked, remove from heat and let them rest for about 5 minutes.  Serve hot with toppings and enjoy!

Sapna3 Comments

Greek Inspired Crepes Yum

This recipe is one of my favorites.  I learned it almost 4 years ago in Arizona.  We had gone for the weekend to hang out with Pankaj’s friends from college.  It was Sunday morning and we decided to do a fun brunch.  Rupal (our friend who we went to visit) suggested we make Greek Crepes.  OMG have I been hooked on them since! I don’t know about her, but I know I definitely stumbled through this one, pretending I knew what I was doing when in fact, all I knew how to do was make the crepes.  The Greek part was literally Greek to me. Continue reading “Greek Inspired Crepes Yum “ →

Sapna1 Comment

Almond Coconut Porridge

Breakfast is my favorite meal. There are so many fun foods to eat and start your day. Sweet or savory, light or hearty, healthy or greasy!

A couple of months ago, a friend recommended a local restaurant, Homegrown. The moment I walked in and saw their menu, I fell in love. They’re a casual place that serves food which is organic and from local farmers. Talk about tasting the freshness in my food!

I ordered their Coconut Chia Porridge. Was I blown away! The creamy porridge paired with the crunchy toasted coconut and almonds, topped with sweet banana slices. I was in breakfast heaven!

Since then, I’ve been obsessed. Especially over the last week. I just can’t get it out of my mind so I decided to try my hand at it and make my own version.

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In addition to chia seeds, I added flax seeds. A double dose of fiber and omega 3’s (which is a win-win when you’re feeding two toddlers)!

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If you don’t have time in the morning because you need to rush out of the house, then this is a very easy prepare the night before recipe. Just mix all the ingredients for the oats, cover and keep in the refrigerator. Heat it up the next morning and add your toppings.

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Here is what I added to mine: toasted coconut, walnuts, craisins, sesame seeds and fresh blueberries. Not the same as Homegrown obviously but still delicious!

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Try it out!

Ingredients:
1c Steel Cut Oats
2c Unsweeteened Coconut Almond Milk (or any milk of your choice)
1c Water
1tsp Salt
1Tbsp Ground Flax Seed
1Tbsp Chia Seeds

For Toppings:
1Tbsp shredded coconut, toasted
Handful of toasted walnuts
2tsp Craisins
Handful of fresh blueberries
½tsp sesame seeds
1Tbsp Almond milk (or more for your desired consistency)

In a medium saucepan, combine the almond milk and water and boil. Once it reaches a boil, reduce heat and add in the oatmeal and salt. Stir occasionally as the oats cook, approximately 20 minutes. As the oats start to thicken, about 10 minutes into cooking them, add in the chia and flax seeds. Mix well and continue to cook until the oats are done.

Spoon into a bowl and add the toppings.

I hope you and your family enjoy this bowl of porridge as much as me and mine did!