Anshu's Food Odyssey

Idli is a round, steamed cake traditionally made of lentils and short-grain rice. Not to mention, it is one of the healthiest breakfast recipes of Indian cuisine and a staple food of South India. Authentically, idli is made using a semi-thick fermented batter made of urad dal and short grain rice; however there are many other varieties too such as Rava Idli , Oats Idli , and Poha or Avial Idli etc. that are enjoyed in Indian homes. Recently I also made Instant Moong Dal Idli which was a great hit with my family. While all these varieties are instant, quick, easy to make and require no fermentation, yet the traditional rice & lentil idli (the recipe of which I am going to share today) is one that has no comparison. Spongy, fluffy and pillowy soft, these idlis are best enjoyed with the traditional South Indian Sambar and Coconut Chutney on the side. So, if you have been looking for the best recipe to make these traditional Rice Idlis, I must say, you are on the correct page. L...

Some of the links below are affiliate links, which means, at no extra cost to you, I will earn a small commission if you click and make a purchase through them, helping me retain and maintain this blog. Starting tomorrow is the auspicious festival of Ganesh Chaturthi , also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi in many parts of India. One of the most celebrated Hindu festivals , it marks the birth anniversary of the beloved elephant-headed Hindu God, Lord Ganesha. The excitement for this 10 days long fiesta can be seen weeks before the actual day; people begin cleaning their houses, prepare different sweets and snacks and artisans across India start carving the idols of Ganesha in different poses and sizes. On the actual day of the chaturthi, these idols are installed in elaborately decked up pandals, temples, and even individual homes accompanied with various poojas, aartis and large processions. Not to mention, the mood of ecstasy, joy and blissfulness can be felt everywhere. Al...

Loaded with a tantalizing dry moong dal filling, these mini samosas are a perfect addition to your festive menu, be it of Diwali, Holi, Eid, Raksha Bandhan or Ganesh Chaturthi. Mini Dry Moong Dal Samosa | Farsaan Samosa Samosas have always been one of my favorite snacks to munch on with a hot cup of chai (tea). While the spicy  aloo samosas  are absolutely delectable, these bite size samosas filled with a spicy and a bit tangy dry lentil filling are also to die for. Additionally, they have a much longer shelf life and stay crisp easily for 15 to 20 days if stored in an air-tight container. Planning any party, get-together or a special event, not to mention, these mini dry moong dal samosas make for a perfect snack to be served to the guests. Without waiting any further, let's begin with the recipe. INGREDIENTS Maida/All Purpose Flour - 1 and 1/2 cups Refined oil - 3 tbsp Salt - 1/2 tsp Ajwain - 1 tsp Water - as needed, aro...

Missing those khasta, crispy and flaky kachoris from your favorite halwai (sweet/snacks) shop during this pandemic crisis? Well, today I am going to share the same very recipe of those lipsmacking Halwai Style Moong Dal Kachoris with all the tips & tricks to make and relish them right in your homes. A popular breakfast recipe from North India , it is best enjoyed with a spicy and tantalizing aloo sabzi. On my blog are some delicious aloo sabzi recipes; two of the most viewed include the very famous " MATHURA KE DUBKI WALE ALOO " and the other " HALWAI STYLE HING JEERA ALOO KI SABZI ". Make any of these and have a lovely breakfast or brunch with your family. Halwai Style Khasta Moong Dal Kachori If you are someone who doesn't know what a kachori is, well, it is a deep fried Indian puffed pastry which is filled with a spicy and lipsmacking filling either of potatoes, onions, peas or lentils. The ones I have shared is the most com...

Hara Bhara Kabab is by far one of the most popular appetizers available on the menu cards of almost every restaurant across North India. Translating to "GREEN" from the words "Hara Bhara", they are very delicious and healthy, and primarily have to their ingredients, some fresh blanched spinach leaves and green peas that are combined with some grated potatoes and an assortment of mild spices for a delectable taste. As specified, it is more of a restaurant preparation but, can be easily prepared at home too. If you are planning a party or a get-together, these Hara Bhara Kababs make for an amazing appetizer and can be made well ahead of time. Let me tell you, these kababs also serve as a great monsoon snack and provide for a yummilicous treat with a cup of hot ginger tea on the side. Hara Bhara Kebab INGREDIENTS Spinach (cleaned and washed) - 3 to 4 cups Green peas (boiled) - 1/2 cup ...