tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15418143236933330642024-03-13T09:28:12.120+05:30"ASRA"...ASHAON KAAshhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12039911212235165959noreply@blogger.comBlogger96125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1541814323693333064.post-59524354941538818062010-07-18T10:13:00.000+05:302010-07-18T10:15:17.699+05:30BREAD HALWA (Bread Pudding)!!!!!!'<span style="font-weight: bold;">Halwa</span>' the very word is mouth watering. But during childhood the only halwa I knew was that of Mangalore. The Mangaluru Halwa. The hard varieties. Flavors like banana halwa, Bombay halwa, godhi halwa with nutty garnishing, were the only pictures of halwa I had tasted.<br /><br />But after my acquaintance with Kuku (<span style="font-style: italic;">now my hubby</span>), I learnt that even the "Ksheera" what we called, at Mangalore, popularly known as "Kesaribath" at Bangalore, was also called as sooji halwa. And many more puddings prepared similarly were called as the "respective ingredient halwa", such as the Gaajar ka Halwa ( <span style="font-style: italic;">Carrot Halwa</span>), Lauki ka Halwa (<span style="font-style: italic;">Bottle Gourd Halwa</span>), Moong Dal Halwa (<span style="font-style: italic;">Split Green gram dal Halwa</span>), etc.,etc.,. That sure gives a picture of Halwa Mela!<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/BreadHalwa1.jpg" alt="Bread Pudding" height="420" width="580" /></p><br />One such Halwa is the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Bread Halwa</span>. I still remember, the restaurant at ITPL, "SINDBAD". This was when I worked for AOL, Pvt. India Ltd., we had our team lunch at this restaurant. I simply loved the Moong Dal Halwa that they served for the buffet lunch. I always looked forward for those team lunches, just to devour this halwa. They served it with ice cream. One day I decided that me & my hubby would have our lunch together at this place. And the day we had our lunch, the restaurant served bread halwa with ice cream. Both of us relished this dessert to the core. Some days later, I even took away a parcel of this halwa home, & devoured it. DIVINE!!!<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/BreadHalwa2.jpg" alt="Bread Pudding" height="420" width="580" /></p><br />And this was one preparation that we never forgot & never will. Whenever we had a craving for a sweet dessert, we just reminisced this halwa. That was when we decided that it was high time we tried it at home. We did & voila!!!!! It was a hit at home. For almost all special occasions, I landed up preparing this halwa. Even otherwise I would prepare it & even take a take away for my mom when I visited her. She sincerely devours it. She would serve a small bowl for everyone at home & then, you would never see it back. It would go underground. Then my mom would relish it alone, every now & then, till the last bit. :-)))<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/BreadHalwa4.jpg" alt="Bread Pudding" height="420" width="580" /></p><br />My brother (<span style="font-style: italic;">Amrith</span>), got married recently. Now my mom has her newly wedded daughter in-law (<span style="font-style: italic;">Jyothi</span>) with her. Last week it was her first birthday at her in-laws after wedding. I had prepared bread halwa, as a part of the sumptuous birthday lunch. After the lunch I left to my place & rest of the guests went home too. My mom still had 3/4 of the halwa with her. As she went in & out of the kitchen, she kept nibbling at the halwa. She also found that Jyothi did that too. Next moment she hid the halwa container. None of them could have more of it. Next morning they found out that the halwa was consumed completely by mom "THE HALWA CHORNI". My new sister in-law, asked me to prepare it again so that she could devour her share to the core.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Laugh Out Loud!!!!!! </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">ऐसे</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">ऐसे</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">तो</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">हलवा</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">के</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">किस्से</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">हैं</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">हमारे</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">घर</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">में</span><span style="font-weight: bold;">. </span><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">(Aise Aise Tho Halwa Ke Kisse Hain Hamare Ghar Mein)</span><br /><br />Ingredients:<br /><br />Bread Loaf - 1<br />Milk - 1/2 liter<br />Cashew nuts - 100 gm<br />Raisins - 25 gm<br />Sugar - 150 gm (<span style="font-style: italic;">1 cup</span>)<br />Ghee - 100 gm<br /><br />Method:<br /><br />Tear the bread loaf into quarter a slice.<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/BreadHalwa5.jpg" alt="Bread Pudding" height="420" width="580" /></p><br />Boil the milk.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2sS8JQsjMwK4y3S0SPIFslrxPCVkteit_dB7P3JkYlPdd93nLojbCvBwurgoDzGv9SGaIVNCmRvdWR41tao7NY8Yw_gSfZqEOSfbwGmpG9AQQiDI9E9Aa5yd5fvpo_z9eKdIxTO1witE/s1600-h/DSC00631.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2sS8JQsjMwK4y3S0SPIFslrxPCVkteit_dB7P3JkYlPdd93nLojbCvBwurgoDzGv9SGaIVNCmRvdWR41tao7NY8Yw_gSfZqEOSfbwGmpG9AQQiDI9E9Aa5yd5fvpo_z9eKdIxTO1witE/s400/DSC00631.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366931328549489202" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Now heat ghee in a wok.<br /><br />Then add the crumbled bread & stir fry. Once the bread crumbs soak the entire amount of ghee & turns golden brown in color, add the cashews & raisins & stir fry.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">P.S.</span> you can also fry the cashews & raisins separately & then add it to the bread crumbs.<br /><br />Once the cashews & raisins turn golden brown, add the boiled milk. Keep stirring as the milk would start throwing out. Mix well & keep stirring for 2 minutes even after the milk has been absorbed completely.<br /><br />Once the bread looks dry, add the sugar & stir it well for at least a minute. And turn of the flame. Once the sugar has been absorbed, you are ready to relish the yum Bread Halwa.<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/BreadHalwa6.jpg" alt="Bread Pudding" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">P.S. </span>It would taste best when it is relished hot.<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/BreadHalwa3.jpg" alt="Bread Pudding" height="420" width="580" /></p><br />Once you have prepared this do not forget to lemme know ;)<br /><br />I have kinda re-posted this very old post from my archival..... But just updating better pics, of course.....<br /><br />Sending this as my entry to Nivedita's <a href="http://niveditaskitchen.blogspot.com/2010/06/event-announcement-celebrate.html"><span style="font-weight: bold;">CELEBRATE SWEETS~HALWA</span></a> event..... Thanks to Jagruti for letting me know of this celebration.... It feels great to celebrate INDIA.... in all respects..... & Food is an integral part of the Colors Of India..... :)<br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/CONTESTS%20_%20%20LOGOS/CelebrateHalwalogo2.jpg" alt="Celebrate Halwa" height="200" width="200" /></p>Ha! That reminds me of the theme for June ATCs which was Ethnic India..... & Here are my creations portraying the ethnicity...... Do take a peek :-) @ <a style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);" href="http://hastkala-oceanichope.blogspot.com/2010/07/ethnic-india.html"><span style="font-weight: bold;">HASTKALA</span></a>!!!!!<br /><br />That is it for now..... Will be back soon again.....<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">UNTIL NEXT, KEEP THE FAITH!!!!</span><br /><br /><b><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/224/FB86AADF240FA45239B7963BAE4F9753.png" style="border: 0pt none ! important; background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent;" /></a></b>Ashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12039911212235165959noreply@blogger.com82tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1541814323693333064.post-37746784885401294132010-07-17T15:30:00.002+05:302010-07-17T20:23:07.273+05:30BREAD HALWA (Bread Pudding)!!!!!'<span style="font-weight: bold;">Halwa</span>' the very word is mouth watering. But during childhood the only halwa I knew was that of Mangalore. The Mangaluru Halwa. The hard varieties. Flavors like banana halwa, Bombay halwa, godhi halwa with nutty garnishing, were the only pictures of halwa I had tasted.<br /><br />But after my acquaintance with Kuku (<span style="font-style: italic;">now my hubby</span>), I learnt that even the "Ksheera" what we called, at Mangalore, popularly known as "Kesaribath" at Bangalore, was also called as sooji halwa. And many more puddings prepared similarly were called as the "respective ingredient halwa", such as the Gaajar ka Halwa ( <span style="font-style: italic;">Carrot Halwa</span>), Lauki ka Halwa (<span style="font-style: italic;">Bottle Gourd Halwa</span>), Moong Dal Halwa (<span style="font-style: italic;">Split Green gram dal Halwa</span>), etc.,etc.,. That sure gives a picture of Halwa Mela!<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/BreadHalwa1.jpg" alt="Bread Pudding" height="420" width="580" /></p><br />One such Halwa is the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Bread Halwa</span>. I still remember, the restaurant at ITPL, "SINDBAD". This was when I worked for AOL, Pvt. India Ltd., we had our team lunch at this restaurant. I simply loved the Moong Dal Halwa that they served for the buffet lunch. I always looked forward for those team lunches, just to devour this halwa. They served it with ice cream. One day I decided that me & my hubby would have our lunch together at this place. And the day we had our lunch, the restaurant served bread halwa with ice cream. Both of us relished this dessert to the core. Some days later, I even took away a parcel of this halwa home, & devoured it. DIVINE!!!<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/BreadHalwa2.jpg" alt="Bread Pudding" height="420" width="580" /></p><br />And this was one preparation that we never forgot & never will. Whenever we had a craving for a sweet dessert, we just reminisced this halwa. That was when we decided that it was high time we tried it at home. We did & voila!!!!! It was a hit at home. For almost all special occasions, I landed up preparing this halwa. Even otherwise I would prepare it & even take a take away for my mom when I visited her. She sincerely devours it. She would serve a small bowl for everyone at home & then, you would never see it back. It would go underground. Then my mom would relish it alone, every now & then, till the last bit. :-)))<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/BreadHalwa4.jpg" alt="Bread Pudding" height="420" width="580" /></p><br />My brother (<span style="font-style: italic;">Amrith</span>), got married recently. Now my mom has her newly wedded daughter in-law (<span style="font-style: italic;">Jyothi</span>) with her. Last week it was her first birthday at her in-laws after wedding. I had prepared bread halwa, as a part of the sumptuous birthday lunch. After the lunch I left to my place & rest of the guests went home too. My mom still had 3/4 of the halwa with her. As she went in & out of the kitchen, she kept nibbling at the halwa. She also found that Jyothi did that too. Next moment she hid the halwa container. None of them could have more of it. Next morning they found out that the halwa was consumed completely by mom "THE HALWA CHORNI". My new sister in-law, asked me to prepare it again so that she could devour her share to the core.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Laugh Out Loud!!!!!! </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">ऐसे</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">ऐसे</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">तो</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">हलवा</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">के</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">किस्से</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">हैं</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">हमारे</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">घर</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">में</span><span style="font-weight: bold;">. </span><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">(Aise Aise Tho Halwa Ke Kisse Hain Hamare Ghar Mein)</span><br /><br />Ingredients:<br /><br />Bread Loaf - 1<br />Milk - 1/2 liter<br />Cashew nuts - 100 gm<br />Raisins - 25 gm<br />Sugar - 150 gm (<span style="font-style: italic;">1 cup</span>)<br />Ghee - 100 gm<br /><br />Method:<br /><br />Tear the bread loaf into quarter a slice.<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/BreadHalwa5.jpg" alt="Bread Pudding" height="420" width="580" /></p><br />Boil the milk.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2sS8JQsjMwK4y3S0SPIFslrxPCVkteit_dB7P3JkYlPdd93nLojbCvBwurgoDzGv9SGaIVNCmRvdWR41tao7NY8Yw_gSfZqEOSfbwGmpG9AQQiDI9E9Aa5yd5fvpo_z9eKdIxTO1witE/s1600-h/DSC00631.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2sS8JQsjMwK4y3S0SPIFslrxPCVkteit_dB7P3JkYlPdd93nLojbCvBwurgoDzGv9SGaIVNCmRvdWR41tao7NY8Yw_gSfZqEOSfbwGmpG9AQQiDI9E9Aa5yd5fvpo_z9eKdIxTO1witE/s400/DSC00631.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366931328549489202" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Now heat ghee in a wok.<br /><br />Then add the crumbled bread & stir fry. Once the bread crumbs soak the entire amount of ghee & turns golden brown in color, add the cashews & raisins & stir fry.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">P.S.</span> you can also fry the cashews & raisins separately & then add it to the bread crumbs.<br /><br />Once the cashews & raisins turn golden brown, add the boiled milk. Keep stirring as the milk would start throwing out. Mix well & keep stirring for 2 minutes even after the milk has been absorbed completely.<br /><br />Once the bread looks dry, add the sugar & stir it well for at least a minute. And turn of the flame. Once the sugar has been absorbed, you are ready to relish the yum Bread Halwa.<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/BreadHalwa6.jpg" alt="Bread Pudding" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">P.S. </span>It would taste best when it is relished hot.<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/BreadHalwa3.jpg" alt="Bread Pudding" height="420" width="580" /></p><br />Once you have prepared this do not forget to lemme know ;)<br /><br />I have kinda re-posted this very old post from my archival..... But just updating better pics, of course.....<br /><br />Sending this as my entry to Nivedita's <a href="http://niveditaskitchen.blogspot.com/2010/06/event-announcement-celebrate.html"><span style="font-weight: bold;">CELEBRATE SWEETS~HALWA</span></a> event..... Thanks to Jagruti for letting me know of this celebration.... It feels great to celebrate INDIA.... in all respects..... & Food is an integral part of the Colors Of India..... :)<br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/CONTESTS%20_%20%20LOGOS/CelebrateHalwalogo2.jpg" alt="Celebrate Halwa" height="200" width="200" /></p>Ha! That reminds me of the theme for June ATCs which was Ethnic India..... & Here are my creations portraying the ethnicity...... Do take a peek :-) @ <a style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);" href="http://hastkala-oceanichope.blogspot.com/2010/07/ethnic-india.html"><span style="font-weight: bold;">HASTKALA</span></a>!!!!!<br /><br />That is it for now..... Will be back soon again.....<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">UNTIL NEXT, KEEP THE FAITH!!!!</span><br /><br /><b><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/224/FB86AADF240FA45239B7963BAE4F9753.png" style="border: 0pt none ! important; background-color: transparent; background-image: none; background-repeat: repeat; background-attachment: scroll; background-position: 0% 0%; -moz-background-size: auto auto; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial;" /></a></b>Ashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12039911212235165959noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1541814323693333064.post-60105246679000537662010-06-29T02:04:00.005+05:302010-06-29T03:59:30.176+05:30GO GREEN :-)Hello! I am here... finally! Long time...... I had several things on my mind & that did not or has not let me try something new... Hence did not post..... It was a regular dal + rice + some veggie sabzi..... What do I post about that??? I have already done..... So there was no much scope.... But I know it is almost the end of this month & I thought I ought to post something at least..... not to skip an entire month on my archival..... Hence sought this simple prep from my draft for today's post.....<br /><br />Many of my fellow bloggers wondered where I was & they might have been furious for the delay too.... I am sorry again... I hope things fall into place for me ASAP!!!!! I keep my fingers crossed.... And yes! to keep away from being depressed.... I kept myself busy with my crafty creations...... That helped me a lot to beat the heat of my thoughts..... :-) Thanks to my expensive hobby ;-) U can take a peek here @ <a href="http://hastkala-oceanichope.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Hastkala</span></a>.<br /><br />Hmmm.... Let us get on with our post for today.... It is a simple rice prep, which only has green veggies in it.... It is green & hence the name..... A very simple, healthy yet delicious rice prep with some raitha as an accompaniment..... Awesome as a quickie..... :-)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Green Rice </span><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/GreenRice1.jpg" alt="Green Rice" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />Ingredients :<br /><br />Basmati Rice - 2 cups<br />Fresh Peas - 2 tbsp<br />Round Beans - 2 tbsp (<span style="font-style: italic;">chopped</span>)<br />Spring Onions - 2 tbsp (<span style="font-style: italic;">finely chopped</span>)<br />Green Chilli - 1 tbsp (<span style="font-style: italic;">finely chopped</span>)<br />Onion - 2 tbsp (<span style="font-style: italic;">optional finally chopped</span>)<br />***<span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);">I did not use any as I strictly went by the shade I chose ;-) Green!</span><br />Oil - 2 tbsp<br />Salt to Taste<br />Water - 3 1/2 cups<br /><br />Method :<br /><br />Wash all the above ingredients..... (<span style="font-style: italic;">except oil & salt ;-)</span> Keep the rice aside..... Chop all the greens... Heat oil in a pressure cooker.... Add the green chilli & saute for 2 seconds..... Add the optional onion & saute till translucent or add the chopped veggies directly (<span style="font-style: italic;">except the spring onions</span>) & stir fry for 4-5 minutes..... Now add the rice & fry further for 5 minutes..... When the rice shows a shine, add water, add salt & the chopped spring onions..... Stir once & cover the lid... Allow the steam to whistle for 4 whistles..... Then remove from fire..... When all the pressure is let out, all by itself, serve hot with any raitha or gravy as an accompaniment, of your choice.....<br /><br />Accompaniment is a must.... If not it seems very dry.... Remember? They are only greens..... SO it needs some support system.... May be I was so involved in my card creation which had a green theme to be incorporated..... which I carried to the kitchen with me.... & got even my food themed GREEN!!!!<br /><br />The other day Kuku got some raw mangoes from a farm.... I was so thrilled.... Rather we both were..... But the problem was, we were just the two of us at home & what would I do with all of them..... I know nothing nor have the patience to bring them to use other than SLURPEE! savoring ;-)<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/RawMangoes.jpg" alt="raw mangoes" height="420" width="580" /></p><br />I distributed few & the rest I just left them in a cover.... My maid asked me to keep them in a rice container..... We just get 5 kg rice packet & where would I fit them all in... Hence I kept a few, say 5-6.....<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/RipeMangoes1.jpg" alt="ripe mangoes" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />Just yesterday, I looked at them... few seemed ripe.... But the rest were intact..... Even the ones that were ripe had few spaces which were still raw..... But still our inquisitiveness got us to slice the few..... & Voila!!!! So juicy, yum & luscious they were.... :-p, with one or two bites sour.....<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/RipeMangoes2.jpg" alt="ripe mangoes" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />Lovely Color :-p though..... But we enjoyed them.... The rest are intact in the polythene cover.....<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;">Peeps! Please guide me with simple & stress free methods, by which I can get them to ripen ASAP to relish them all......</span> Of course with all thanks to you, for the guidance .... :-)<br /><br />I forgot to give some to mom, when she visited.... I felt so bad.... At least she knew how to put them into use..... My Bad! :-(<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;">Thanking you in advance, for all the guidance, u will be providing me with...... :-)</span><br /><br />Will be back soon.... with my next.....<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">UNTIL THEN, KEEP THE FAITH!!!!</span><br /><br /><br /><b><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/224/FB86AADF240FA45239B7963BAE4F9753.png" style="border: 0pt none ! important; background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent;" /></a></b>Ashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12039911212235165959noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1541814323693333064.post-62252021350485991462010-05-30T19:08:00.006+05:302010-05-30T21:09:44.963+05:30PREP TADKA MAARKE!!!!!Hello!!!! I am very much alive...... It was my comp which ditched me & kept me away from catching up with the happenings around, for sometime..... I had to (<span style="font-style: italic;">oops! sorry, My hubby! No credits taken</span>).... My hubby had to get few things changed in it, to get it back fixed & working.... He feels really bad & hurt, to see me without my Computer..... as I start drooping around, not knowing what to do..... ;-)<br /><br />Now that it is back & since I had no challenges I was desperate to attempt, for my <a href="http://hastkala-oceanichope.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Craft blog</span></a>, I thought it was time I posted here to save my nose..... ;-) Seriously, I felt ashamed looking at the archive, which showed just one post each for the months of April & May.... I really felt... "<span style="font-weight: bold;">Chullu bhar paani mein dhoob maroon</span>"..... I am sorry.... I know I am being unfaithful to this blog & all my supporters, who have made me grow till date... with my preps for consumption & postings too..... I thought at least to face myself, I had to post today......<br /><br />So here I am with preps I thought would make an entry (<span style="font-style: italic;">last minute again! Shame! Shame!</span>) to the Dal Event @ Veggie Platter....... I was looking forward to post since many days for this event, but it kinda got piled up... So here I am with Three Dal preps....... TODAY!!!!!<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">DAL TADKA!</span><br /><br />This is a popular prep at my in-laws...... Very simple yet divine...... Goes well with both rice as well as rotis......<br /><br />Ingredients :<br /><br />Toor dal + Masoor dal - 1/2 cup ( <span style="font-style: italic;">I keep a mix of both</span>)<br />Turmeric Powder - 1/4 tsp<br />Red Chilli Powder - 1/4 tsp<br />Salt to Taste<br /><br />For Tempering -<br /><br />Green Chilli - 2, finely chopped<br />Onion - 1/2, finely chopped<br />Tomato - 1 medium, finely chopped<br />Oil/Ghee - 2 tsp<br />Cumin Seeds - 1/4 tsp<br />Asafoetida - a pinch<br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/DalTadka1.jpg" alt="DAL TADKA" width="580" height="420" /></p><br />Method :<br /><br />Cook the dal with the above ingredients as usual/ pressure cook..... Whip it lightly & keep aside...<br />Heat oil in a wok & add the cumin seeds...Allow it to splutter & add the green chilli, onion & tomato.... Stir fry till the onion turns pink..... Add asafoetida & stir for half a minute... Now add the whipped dal into the tadka..... Mix well & allow it to cook further for 5 minutes, covered.... Depending on the required consistency, add water...... Usually dal fry has a thicker consistency..... Now serve it hot with your rice or roti accompanied by any other dry sabzi......<br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/LUNCH.jpg" alt="DAL TADKA" width="580" height="420" /></p><p>Well I served it with Bhindi Bhoonjiya for the dry sabzi that day...... prepared similar to the <a href="http://asha-oceanichope.blogspot.com/2009/10/aloo-bhindi-bhoonjiya-bende-kaayi.html"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Aloo Bhindi Bhoonjiya</span></a> minus the Aloo (<span style="font-style: italic;">Potato</span>). Savor!!!!!<br /></p><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />Mango Dal!</span><br /><br />I just wanted to try something different from the usual, hence added few pieces of raw totapuri mango, with the dal.......<br /><br />Ingredients :<br /><br />Toor dal + Masoor dal - 1/2 cup<br />Raw mango - 10 chunks (<span style="font-style: italic;">optionally peeled</span>)<br />Onion - 1 medium (<span style="font-style: italic;">finely sliced</span>)<br />Green Chilli - 2 small (<span style="font-style: italic;">slit lengthwise</span>)<br />Garlic - 3 cloves (<span style="font-style: italic;">minced</span>)<br />Tomato - 1/2 chopped<br />Methi Seeds - 4 to5<br />Turmeric Powder - 1/2 tsp<br />Red Chilli Powder - 1/4 tsp<br />Salt to Taste<br /><br />For tempering -<br /><br />Mustard Seeds - 1/2 tsp<br />Curry Leaves - 1 twig<br />Asafoetida - a pinch<br />Oil - 1 tsp<br />Cumin Powder - 1/4 tsp<br />Coriander Powder - 1/4 tsp<br />Dry Red Chilli - 2 broken<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/MangoDal.jpg" alt="Mango Dal" width="580" height="420" /></p><br />Method :<br /><br />Pressure cook dal with all the above ingredients & once done, lightly whip the prep with a whisk & keep aside...... Now heat oil for tempering in a wok & add all the ingredients in the order from mustard seeds, curry leaves, dry red chilli, asafoetida, & the masala powders..... Stir fry for a minute & add in the whipped dal mixture....... Let it boil for 2 minutes & then savor it hot with rice..........<br /><br />Few months back, my gardener did the garden.... Changing the soil, adding manure & sprayed pesticide..... And just recently I saw, few tomato plants in few of my pots along with the flowers in them, which were the original inhabitants of the pot........... I was like WOW!!!! There were quite a handful, which were raw.... I called Kuku & we both marked them together...... But later, we forgot......<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);">One morning as my maid left, I went behind her to close the door & saw her leaving with two tomatoes...... I asked her "from where?" & she replied "from your garden" & I was like "What???" My tomatoes I forgot about & my maid was happily savoring them... I asked her to spare them for a minute at least, to let them pose for few captures as a memory of my garden tomatoes..... And willingly she did & left one for me too..... So here are the captures..... </span><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/AsraGardenTomato1.jpg" alt="Garden" width="580" height="420" /></p><br />Are they not cute & glossy..... I felt so proud to see them grow in my pots.......<br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/AsraGardenTomato2.jpg" alt="Garden" width="580" height="420" /></p> And after that day, whenever she found one in the garden, she plucked them for me..... I felt good.... One tomato, I sliced into rounds for a simple salad & the other I used in my regular dal....<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/AsraGardenTomato3.jpg" alt="Garden" width="580" height="420" /></p>U can see the <span style="font-weight: bold;">bits & pieces of my garden tomato</span> in this <a href="http://asha-oceanichope.blogspot.com/2009/04/simple-bihari-dal.html"><span style="font-weight: bold;">simple regular dal</span></a>, which I prepare for my daily lunch.......<br /><br />Hmmm.... So that's a lot of Dal stuff...... These are my last minute entry to the <a href="http://veggieplatter.blogspot.com/2010/04/announcing-event-delicious-dals-from.html"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Dal Event</span></a> @ Veggie Platter.......<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/CONTESTS%20_%20%20LOGOS/dalevent.jpg" alt="Dal Event" width="200" height="200" /></p><br />That is it for now...... I would be back soon, & I see to it that I keep up to my schedule this time.....<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">UNTIL NEXT, KEEP THE FAITH!!!!</span><br /><br /><b><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/224/FB86AADF240FA45239B7963BAE4F9753.png" style="border: 0pt none ! important; background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent;" /></a></b>Ashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12039911212235165959noreply@blogger.com39tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1541814323693333064.post-89079781515859509922010-05-09T12:14:00.014+05:302010-05-09T16:02:25.774+05:30DEDICATION TO MOM!!!!!Hello Everybody!!!! I know it has been not just days but almost a month since I posted..... I am really ashamed of myself, not being able to keep up my promises..... I know I have to work something out as far as this blog is concerned.....<br /><br />Okay! We would settle these pretty-petty things later & Celebrate..... Yup! It is OUR MOTHERS DAY!!!!!<br /><br />I am so happy... It is a very special day...... Every day is special as far as mothers are concerned... <span style="font-weight: bold;">but this 'day' make us all realize Our Very Existence, Our Very Identity</span>...... It is the mother, who gives it to us.... She inculcates all those values & emotions in us, that make us all, who we are today...... Our 'base' is not taught to us by our mothers, but gets naturally transmitted through the affection she showers on us..... We inherit from her..... And proudly pose them as adults.... Making Us who we are..... Our thoughts, understanding, sensitivity..... are all those pricey possessions we inherit from our mothers..... I DID!!!! & Proud to pose & flaunt them too......<br /><br />According to me....... <span style="font-weight: bold;">'Love' involves many thoughts into it...... but 'Mother' itself are all those thoughts......</span> No other emotions or thoughts are required to get us carried away..... The very word Mother tends to kindle all my thoughts & emotion.... The thought of separation from her, kills me, a thousand deaths..... I hate the thought.... As I strictly believe, I hate to repent later over anything... I believe in living at that moment & correcting our thoughts & actions, when we have time in hand..... There is no point crying over spilt milk later.....<br /><br />But what if we are hurt now???? But what if our emotions are not reciprocated to???? I don't know nor understand how to get over it???? I am just left to lick my wounds..... All thanks to my hubby who is with me, in all times of distress..... If not for him, I would have had a breakdown, for sure..... I guess at the end of the day, it is just the husband & the wife, who remain for each other.....<br /><br />I do not have a BEST FRIEND till date.... because I never found the necessity, for one.... Before wedding I had <span style="font-weight: bold;">mom</span> & post wedding I have <span style="font-weight: bold;">Kuku</span>.... So I always thought <span style="font-weight: bold;">I have two of the worlds best friends, for I share every single stupid thing & thought with them....</span> But since few days, my friendship with my mom is undergoing stress.... And it makes me very weak & depressed.... There goes not a moment when I do not remember her & yearn to feel her, to my hearts content.... I hope & pray that things would fall back into place, sooooooooooooooooooooon.................<br /><br />But I will forever remember all those things my mom did for me.... She took all the shouting from my dad, at times of my acquaintance with Kuku, before wedding... She always came in between, as a savior...... She means everything to me & forever will.....<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-family:lucida grande;" >I still remember few childhood incidents, that gives me goosebumps till date</span><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);">.... </span><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(153, 0, 0);font-family:georgia;" >One such instance</span> was when, as a child lived in my native Puttur (Mangalore Dist.), It was a dense forest kind of land with many unknown & wild plants & vegetation, around our house & I loved meandering in the jungle, day in, day out..... And during one such meanders, I found some colorful berries hung down a plant at my reach.... <span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(153, 0, 0);">I was, may be, in CLASS 1</span><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);">...... Those berries looked so tempting that I chewed a few, which literally burnt my tongue & mouth & I felt very lifeless.... And seeing this my mom, in an instance of grief, thought, I would not make it & she ate the remaining berries, thinking there was no point for her to LIVE after that..... But with God's Grace, ALL WAS WELL THAT ENDED WELL!!!!!</span> That was her Motherly affection for me...<br /><br />I can never forget many such instances that left marks of my mother in my heart, my mind & my soul..... I would always wish the best for her... be it whatever, & with whatever in my hand.... My mother can always count on me.... <span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;">The two Passions of my life.... My mom & My Hubby..... I love them both so much, that I cannot think of losing even one..... My existence is with them.... Without them I DO NOT EXIST......</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">I take this moment to salute all those mothers, who drain their love & energy till the last drop....</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> Happy Mothers Day!!!!!</span><br /><br />I made some goodies for her, best to my abilities & paraphernalia...... Here they are @ <a href="http://hastkala-oceanichope.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">"Hastkala"...Ashaon Ka</span></a> ..... Take a Peek!!!!<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/GREETING%20CARDS/ThanksMa.jpg" alt="Thanks Ma" height="580" width="420" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/GREETING%20CARDS/CardGift4Mom.jpg" alt="Thanks Ma" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />And today I post this prep that is my <span style="font-weight: bold;">'Mom's Special'</span>........ I never attempted to learn this prep from her till date, but due to the distance that has formed between us & all those moments I remember & miss, her & her delicacies, I thought of trying this prep all on my own..... Might not be exactly what she prepares, but similar...... <span style="font-weight: bold;">Because the Egg-licious Curry she prepares is Green in color... & so is mine..... ;-) Hence I dedicate it to her, on this Special Day...... My way!!!!!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">If you are reading it, I LOVE YOU!!!!! AMMA...... I just want u to remember, that I would be there for you, ever, at times of distress & even if u just need an ear to listen to you & a heart to feel your pain..... I am there forever.....</span><br /><br />Okay! I have drained out my emotions enough, let us continue with my posting for today...... So here it is...... Mom's Egg Curry.... Daughter's Way.......!!!!<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/MomsEggCurry2.jpg" alt="Mom's Egg Curry" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />Ingredients :<br /><br />Eggs - 5 (<span style="font-style: italic;">boiled</span>)<br />Cloves - 4<br />Oil - 3 tbsp<br />Turmeric Powder - a pinch<br />Coriander Powder - 1 tsp<br />Cumin Powder - 1 tsp<br />Kitchen King Masala - 1 tsp<br />Garam Masala Powder - 1 tsp<br />Salt to Taste<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Grind to Paste</span><br /><br />Coriander Leaves - 1 cup, finely chopped<br />Green Chilli - 6<br />Grated fresh Coconut - 1/2 cup<br />Garlic - 6 cloves<br />Ginger - 1"<br />Dry Red Chilli - 2<br />Onion - 1 medium<br /><br /><br />Method:<br /><br />Grind the above mentioned ingredients to a fine paste.... & keep aside.....<br /><br />Heat oil in a Kadai..... Add cloves & dry red chilli & saute for a minute... Add the ground paste & stir fry on a low flame for 5 minutes...... Add all the masala powders & stir fry further for 2 minutes..... Add in the boiled eggs ( <span style="font-style: italic;">either cut into halves or full - If full, just poke in holes with a fork</span>) Fry further for another 5 minutes..... Now add in water as required & cook covered for the next five minutes or so...... Goes well with any kinda rice prep or freshly made phulka rotis.......<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Simple & Quick Jeera Rice</span><br /><br /><br />Ingredients :<br /><br />Rice - 2 cups<br />Onion - 1 medium finely sliced<br />Green Chilli - 2, slit into two<br />Cumin Seeds - 1 tbsp<br />Oil/Ghee - 3 tbsp<br />Turmeric Powder - 1/2 tsp<br />Salt to Taste<br /><br /><br />Method :<br /><br />Wash the rice & keep it aside..... Now heat oil/ghee in a pressure cooker...... Add in the cumin seeds & saute till brown... Now add in the slit green chilli & sliced onions & saute further for two minutes..... Now add in the washed rice, turmeric powder & salt..... Stir fry for 5 minutes..... Then add enough water ( 2:3 1/2).... Tighten the lid of the cooker & cook for 4 whistles..... Turn off the flame & allow the pressure to release, on its own....<br /><br />Serve hot with raitha or the above prepared egg curry......<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/MomsEggCurry3.jpg" alt="Mom's Egg Curry" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />I would love to send this as an entry to PanchPakwan' s <a href="http://panchpakwan.blogspot.com/2010/04/mothers-day-event-announcement.html"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Mothers Day Cooking Celebration event</span></a>......<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/CONTESTS%20_%20%20LOGOS/flowery_framecopy.jpg" alt="Mothers Day Event" height="200" width="200" /></p><br /><br />There were many TOFAS, the acknowledgment of which were delayed... I am really sorry for the delay.....<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/Sunshine_Award.jpg" alt="Sunshine Award" height="200" width="200" /></p><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/Mommyaward-1.jpg" alt="Mommies Award" height="200" width="200" /></p><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/award_from_sugarplumfairy.png" alt="Teddy Love" height="200" width="200" /></p><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/award.png" alt="King" height="200" width="200" /></p><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/award_from_Menaga.jpg" alt="Excellence" height="200" width="200" /></p><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/menaga_award_1.jpg" alt="MJ" height="200" width="200" /></p><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/menaga_award_3.jpg" alt="Queen" height="200" width="200" /></p><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/honestscrap.jpg" alt="Honest Scrap" height="200" width="200" /></p><br />I thank<br /><br /><a href="http://simplysensationalfood.blogspot.com/2010/04/new-awards.html">Simply Food</a>, <a href="http://neetzkitchen.blogspot.com/2010/04/award-time.html">Neetz Kitchen</a>, <a href="http://thattukada-myblog.blogspot.com/2010/04/mutton-biryani.html">Thattukada</a>, <a href="http://curryandbeyond.blogspot.com/2010/04/easy-cheesy-vegetable-farfalle-and.html">Curry & Beyond</a> & <a href="http://www.sailajakitchen.com/2010/04/awards.html">Sailaja Kitchen</a> for spreading CHEERS!!!!! I am glad & happy to have received them.....<br /><br />And would love to share & spread these TOFAS! further...... Anybody who stops by please accept them...... Let us spread Cheers!!! And be CHEERFUL!!!!<br /><br />That is it for now......<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">UNTIL NEXT, KEEP THE FAITH!!!!!</span><br /><br /><br /><b><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/224/FB86AADF240FA45239B7963BAE4F9753.png" style="border: 0pt none ! important; background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent;" /></a></b>Ashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12039911212235165959noreply@blogger.com40tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1541814323693333064.post-88112329274670011042010-04-11T21:08:00.003+05:302010-04-11T22:04:44.683+05:30MUSHROOM MANCHURIAN!!!!! ( Dedicated to Amma on Mother's Day)Hello Everyone!!!! I know it has been a long time, since I really posted..... The last one being just a LOL!!!!!! I promised to keep up...... Yes! I partially did by being able to visit people & their space to read their awesome posts & write ups, as soon as I was Okay.... But as for my blog<br />post..... I have disappointed myself.... to the core....<br /><br />Before I started with my other space & my card making, all I had was this space <span style="font-weight: bold;">"ASRA"...ASHAON KA</span>..... To connect, to write, to learn, to vent, to love or be it anything.... but since I have had my CARDINAL baby.... I have not exactly ignored, but yes, I could not make time to nourish my first baby..... And that is a disgrace..... :-(<br /><br />I promise myself to try not to side track "ASRA...ASHAON KA"..... any further..... I pray God to help me through....<br /><br />I had been busy after I got okay.... I was busy with few of my chores, my Card Projects & a new engagement...... By which I mean I have engaged myself for an hour everyday... (<span style="font-style: italic;">except Sunday</span>)..... <span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;">to give some quick card making lessons to my Doctor's daughter</span>........ Since she has her vacation now & as she is interested in ARTS & CRAFTS, I have dedicated one hour everyday to her.... Just sharing few basic things I know as far as card making is concerned...... Hurray!!!! Because it is kinda learning for me in turn ...... in the process of sharing......<br /><br />It has just been a few days... To be exact... four days... since I started of with this...... And during these days, she has been keen in picking up & remembering & practicing it again at home... for her friends, teachers & family.....<br /><br />This is what she made...... I loved it because I never started this way... or rather did not get a chance to make them, CHILDLIKE ....... Are they not cute & adorable for a beginner.....??????<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/GREETING%20CARDS/Littlecuties.jpg" alt="LIL CREATIONS" height="420" width="580" /></p><br />And for my creations just <a href="http://hastkala-oceanichope.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">CLICK HERE!!!!</span></a>!<br /><br />And I remember reading Srivalli's post on her space <a href="http://spicingyourlife.blogspot.com/2010/04/kids-delight-wholesome-snacks-round-up.html"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Spice Your Life!</span></a> regarding ideas to keep kids busy during their vacation..... I bet this is one among them......<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/CONTESTS%20_%20%20LOGOS/Kids_Delight1250x204.jpg" alt="KIDS DELIGHT" height="200" width="200" /></p><br />They surely can be introduced to this awesome craft, which not only cultivates an interest towards it, but motivates them to give it a serious thought!!!!! I wish all the luck to those kids aspiring to make something personal for their friends, families & teachers...... :-)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">I wanna thank everyone for all your love & support showered on me</span>....... The previous post, which got me upset for a night, & which made me & my hubby laugh at it together the very next morning..... was surely a LOL!!!!!! It actually made me laugh to the core reading other instances where few of you had to put up with it..... So that was when I realized..... It really Happens & It happens!!!!!! It is a part of THIS WORLD..... <span style="font-weight: bold;">Be it on NET or OUTSIDE</span>...... We face it everywhere ...... So nothing OFFICIAL about it..... Later I just thought <span style="font-weight: bold;">"Buri nazar waale,</span><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tera Mooh Kaala"</span>.... (<span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">बुरी नज़र वाले, तेरा मूह काला</span> ) which means directed as a curse, <span style="font-weight: bold;">"Back off or smoke in your face"</span>......... ;-)<br /><br />And as for the post today..... <span style="font-weight: bold;">Oh! it is a long long story</span>.... I initially arranged to get a leftover delicacy made for a contest.... But as I went punching in the required words for that prep, it was time to prepare lunch & I had to hurry back to the kitchen.... My hubby asked if he could get anything interesting for his lunch!!!! Well I wanted it too, as it had been many days since we really had something interesting..... For the time being I have stopped savoring Non Veg....... I don't know when would I be able to savor them again......?????!!!!! Well, so the other best option is <span style="font-weight: bold;">VEG & its variations.</span>......<br /><br />I went through my vegetable basket in the refrigerator & found a pack of mushrooms, I picked three days earlier.... & I went drooling at the thought of being able to savor <span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;">Chilli Mushrooms</span>.... So I came back to my comp to check for any recipe suitable...... But somehow, nothing satisfied me nor excite me to try....... My hubby got very irritated & impatient... He asked me to prepare what I knew & could manage & promised to savor whatever I prepared...... I said okay & went back to the kitchen..... Checked out for the basic ingredients I had & wanted, only to find the cornflour container was empty..... I had to pull out the stock from my storage.... As I did so, the recipe of THE MUSHROOM MANCHURIAN behind the packet caught my eyes...... I said VOILA!!!! Just what I wanted.... & went through the procedure.... to realize again that I did not have a stock of the pastes & sauces required... My hubby said, "It is okay, for a change let us try to improvise on that outline, & moreover it is just for us two & need not fear any criticisms" & I reluctantly agreed..... questioning myself .... should we not be able to ... if not savor... at least EAT what was made, than dumping it down the drains.......????<br /><br />Got down to arrange self made & self decided ingredients to prepare a worthy meal...... for us TWO...... Just went with the flow & once the so called Mushroom Manchurian with Variations was ready...... <span style="font-weight: bold;">My hubby was like WOW!!!!!!!</span> which continued till the last bite & even after that...... And he asked me to register the prep in my blog, so that I would remember the procedure while I made my next..... <span style="font-weight: bold;">So there went the leftover delicacy I was supposed to post today, to my draft</span>..... I feel sorry for it & promise to bring it out to the light very soon....... Sorry Leftover!!!!!! ;-(<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">SO here is My Accidentally TRIED, TESTED & TASTED MUSHROOM MANCHURIAN for ALL OF YOU</span>..... Get down to prepare right away & see the results for yourself...... :-)<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />PS : </span>Kindly adjust & make changes as per your requirements..... Because I just prepared this with what little I had then ...... And moreover too many cooks spoil the broth.... So little always lasts longer in quality...... Take my WORD for it...... :-)<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/Mushmunch1.jpg" alt="MUSHROOM MUNCHURIAN" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Ingredients :</span><br /><br />Fresh Button Mushrooms - 200 gm<br />Onions - 2 medium (<span style="font-style: italic;">sliced rings</span>)<br />Green Chillies - 4 (<span style="font-style: italic;">slit lengthwise</span>)<br />Coriander Leaves - 3 tbsp (<span style="font-style: italic;">finely chopped</span>)<br />Oil - 3 to 4 tbsp<br />Ajinomoto - a pinch<br />Chings Secret Red Chilli Sauce - 2 tbsp<br />Weikfield Soy Sauce - 1 tbsp<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Grind to Paste :</span><br /><br />Ginger - 2" piece<br />Garlic Cloves - 7 pieces<br />Green Chilli - 4<br />Water - 4 tbsp<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">For the Batter :</span><br /><br />Weikfield Cornflour - 4 tbsp<br />Rice Flour - 5 tbsp ( <span style="font-style: italic;">for crispiness</span>)<br />Baking Soda - a pinch<br />Salt to Taste<br />Ground Paste - 3/4th of the total paste<br /><br />Oil - for deep fry<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">**</span>Add water only if required... The consistency of the batter should be medium... not watery nor thick......<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">**</span>Do not add any food color.....<br /><br />Method :<br /><br />Wash the mushrooms under running water & cut them into equal quarters...... Now mix the ingredients for the batter, well & add in a portion of the diced mushrooms & combine......<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/Mushmunch2.jpg" alt="MUSHROOM MUNCHURIAN" height="420" width="580" /></p><br />Heat oil in a deep bottomed vessel or a wok...... When it is smoking hot, turn down the flame to low.... & drop the pieces of mushroom from the batter, with no extra batter along...... Deep fry till golden brown on a medium flame... When done transfer onto an absorbent paper & keep aside......<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">PS :</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;">(<span style="font-style: italic;">CONTROL popping on or savoring those fried mushrooms, which are really yummy!!!!!!!</span>) </span><br /><br />Continue the process to consume all the diced mushrooms .......<br /><br />Now heat oil in another deep bottomed vessel or wok, big enough to accommodate all the ingredients & the mushrooms...... When the oil is hot, add the slit green chillies & saute for a minute, Then add the onion rings & saute for a minute only....... (<span style="font-style: italic;">we do not want the onions</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">totally cooked</span>) Then add the red chilli & soy sauce along with the remaining ground paste. Add a pinch of ajinomoto & stir well to let it fry for a minute... Then add the deep fried mushrooms & stir till sauce just coats the mushrooms.... Add the 3/4th of the chopped coriander leaves, mix well & then transfer the entire prep into a serving bowl & garnish with the remaining chopped coriander leaves.....<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/Mushmunch3.jpg" alt="MUSHROOM MUNCHURIAN" height="420" width="580" /></p><br />Savor piping hot....till the last bite, as I did..... ;-)<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/Mushmunch4.jpg" alt="MUSHROOM MUNCHURIAN" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/Mushmunch5.jpg" alt="MUSHROOM MUNCHURIAN" height="420" width="580" /></p><br />Actually a regular lunch with dal & beans stir fry & rice was ready.....<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/Lastbite.jpg" alt="MUSHROOM MUNCHURIAN" height="420" width="580" /></p><br />But since we savored the whole of what we prepared, then...... we skipped our lunch.....<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/Umptee-n2Empty.jpg" alt="MUSHROOM MUNCHURIAN" height="420" width="580" /></p><br />Kuku had a small portion of lunch very late by 4 pm. I was full...... Now just waiting for my dinner...... I have a small tummy as far as meals are considered.... As for these yummy delicacies, I can still make space...... ;-)<br /><br />And since I made this for the first time & which turned out to be simply mind blowing, I would love to dedicate this to my mom.... As we always loved savoring these delicacies together or when prepared at home or at least trying to prepare at home & not being able to get satisfactory results...... now when I prepared this & since I was not able to share the taste of my first try with her, I would love to dedicate this preparation to her.... And would look forward to prepare it again sometime JUST FOR HER...... I love you & MISS you too.....<span style="font-weight: bold;">To AMMA, with all my LOVE!!!!!!</span><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/CONTESTS%20_%20%20LOGOS/flowery_framecopy.jpg" alt="MOTHER'S DAY EVENT" height="200" width="200" /></p><br />And this being the theme of Jyoti's '<a href="http://panchpakwan.blogspot.com/">PANCHPAKWAN</a>'..... <a href="http://panchpakwan.blogspot.com/2010/04/mothers-day-event-announcement.html"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Mother’s Day cooking celebration</span></a> ..... I send this as an entry to the event......<br /><br />And Yes! I had a few mentions too...... regarding all those cute TOFAS, I received from friendly bloggers......which was a backlog since quite some time.....<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/Sunshine_Award.jpg" alt="SUNSHINE" height="200" width="200" /></p><br /><br />I thank <a href="http://simplysensationalfood.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Simply Food</span></a>, Indu of <a href="http://kattameethatheeka.blogspot.com/2010/03/award-and-tomato-and-capsicum-raita.html"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Khatta Meetha Theeka</span></a>, Deepa of <a href="http://hamareerasoi.blogspot.com/2010/03/paneer-kofta-gravy-notice-and-award.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+HamareeRasoi+%28Hamaree+Rasoi%29"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Hamaree Rasoi</span></a>, Vineetha of <a href="http://malabar-ruchi.blogspot.com/2010/03/thenga-chammanthi-and-awards.html"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Ruchi</span></a> & Supriya from <a href="http://mykookbook.blogspot.com/2010/03/home-decor-ram-navami-and-special-award.html"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Cook in a Blog World</span></a> showered sunshine on me through this cutie...... Thank You so Much.....<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/thank_you-8250.jpg" alt="THANK YOU" height="200" width="200" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/fromglitterglamousgraceGGG.jpg" alt="LOVELY BLOG" height="200" width="200" /></p><br /><br />I thank<a href="http://www.sailajakitchen.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold;"> Sailaja</span></a> for sharing her Thank You & One Lovely Blog Award........<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/honestscrap.jpg" alt="HONEST SCRAP" height="200" width="200" /></p><br /><br />I thank Dolly of <a href="http://curryandbeyond.blogspot.com/2010/03/tomato-rasam-and-awards.html"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Curry & Beyond</span></a> & <a href="http://itsallaboutfoodlovers.blogspot.com/2010/03/juices.htm"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Food Lovers</span></a> for remembering me for the Honest Scrap...... And <a href="http://itsallaboutfoodlovers.blogspot.com/2010/03/juices.htm"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Food Lovers</span></a> again for the Block of TOFAS too......<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/TOFAs.jpg" alt="TOFAS" height="200" width="200" /></p><br />It seems like everyone has one of these... So I don't wanna be repetitive..... Hence peeps, who do not adorn any of these pieces of TOFA, I request you to kindly grab one!!!!!!<br /><br />THANK YOU ALL for the Love & Support..... It is held high.... in my LIFE.... Because that is all that matters at the end of the day...... Love You ALL.....<br /><br />That is it for now..... I will be back soon with my drafted Leftover..... soon.... ;-)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">UNTIL NEXT, KEEP THE FAITH!!!!!</span><br /><br /><br /><b><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/224/FB86AADF240FA45239B7963BAE4F9753.png" style="border: 0pt none ! important; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial;" /></a></b>Ashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12039911212235165959noreply@blogger.com60tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1541814323693333064.post-26211839864620819412010-03-28T11:53:00.010+05:302010-03-29T13:31:44.656+05:30He! He! THERE COMES A SPAMMER!!!!!Yesterday as I signed on to check my mails..... I found this Anonymous Comment in my mail box, looking forward to be noticed by me...... I was like..... What??????? I then thought I would delete it, before my hubby looks into it...... I did not want him to feel bad.... but somehow forgot about it.....<br /><br />Today morning as I was asleep, my hubby checked my mails & found this.... He thought I had not seen it & was wondering what should he do with it, so that I would not see it..... ;-) How Funny! We were both trying to protect each other from that Chicken Shit..... ;-) so that we would not be hurt by the words.....<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTduW0ySRemxB3RYWlJZCzastt0lZhPyppKcaYt6LIuln7F4p3dQrjXIBbIwStBjPQc8YZn1mHaZ_2DfiCchP6S97M-h2WQkGATFES8gzi15hmxSjOFZSXt6-yCQnqK8bZH_gKqOcyQg/s1600/poop.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 143px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTduW0ySRemxB3RYWlJZCzastt0lZhPyppKcaYt6LIuln7F4p3dQrjXIBbIwStBjPQc8YZn1mHaZ_2DfiCchP6S97M-h2WQkGATFES8gzi15hmxSjOFZSXt6-yCQnqK8bZH_gKqOcyQg/s200/poop.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453962746408772066" border="0" /></a><br /><br />But when he told me about it after I woke up, & when I admitted that I read it too.... both looked at each other & burst out laughing...... The thought in our minds was...... how could a person be so jobless, that they find time to indulge in such cowardly & timorous Acts & Deeds...?????<br /><br />This is what he/she commented............<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">["ASRA"...ASHAON KA] New comment on MATAR BHARKE!!!!!!! POORI & PARATA.....(Pea Stuffe....</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">Anonymous to you - yesterday More Details</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">From:</span><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);"> Anonymous <noreply-comment@blogger.com> Hide</noreply-comment@blogger.com></span><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);"><br />To:</span><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);"> aasha222@aol.in</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);"></span><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">Date:</span><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);"> Sat, 27 Mar 2010 7:52 pm</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);"> </span><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">Anonymous has left a new comment on your blog….</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);"> </span><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;">What bakwaas your blog is! And please learn some English before you post another recipe! Hahahahaha… I’m rolling on the floor!</span><br /><br /><br />What should one say or think about this???? I just could not stop laughing..... Now I even went ahead to disable ANONYMOUS from commenting..... Because it really does not make sense according to me..... If u wanna say something, one should have the guts to say it on the face...... & feel good about what one said & not hide oneself cowardly & not enjoy their COMMENT... to the core...... Anything done sincerely, with courage, with all the heart, ONLY makes one feel GOOD about it.... & not otherwise......<br /><br />It's just One life..... Be bold & LIVE IT KING SIZE..... Be a LION or a LIONESS & not a CHICKEN.....<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">PS NOTE: <span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);">I'm sorry Anu,</span></span> for u were kinda regular, who left anonymous comments, which made sense..... But because of <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">some chickens</span> as mentioned above, I had to disable ANONYMOUS from commenting......... I'm really sorry for the trouble caused..... I hope u understand & would cooperate....... :-)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">It would take some time for me to post again & participate...... because of my ill health..... I am sorry... If I would be missing on all the awesome happenings.... around......</span> I will try to catch up soon...... :-)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">UNTIL NEXT, KEEP THE FAITH!!!!!</span><br /><br /><br /><b><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/224/FB86AADF240FA45239B7963BAE4F9753.png" style="border: 0pt none ! important; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial;" /></a></b>Ashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12039911212235165959noreply@blogger.com42tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1541814323693333064.post-81921367729177706862010-03-17T13:09:00.007+05:302010-03-17T20:56:48.134+05:30MATAR BHARKE!!!!!!! POORI & PARATA.....(Pea Stuffed Indian Bread)Hello Everyone!!!!! Kindly forgive my long absence from this space...... Yup! I know I am being mean on my maiden space.... but I promise to make up for it..... I will sincerely try to post at regular intervals & to visit all those amazing people who have supported me so far & who post such amazing stuffs & info..... I am sorry again........<br /><br />Going on with my regular punching..... I have nothing more to share other than my <span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">CARDS! CARDS! & CARDS!!!!!!</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);">And Yes! One important thing I observed & changed is the COMMENT VERIFICATION on this blog</span>.....<br /><br />Many a times, may be due to the bad internet or the bad comp...days..... Due to the increased traffic & usage..... it gets me pissed... to the core.... When I visit some space to check out their lovely postings & desperately wanna leave a comment letting them know that I had been there & relished their yummy posts..... Phew!!!!! It just freezes on me .... All I want is to punch in those feelings & leave...but these verifications get on my nerves..many a times..... And when I thought I realized many others may have also been facing this at my space too..... So I thought & decided to get rid of it...... I discarded that pathetic comment verification thing.....<br /><br />Now, just punch in your feelings & it gets published or saved, to be published later...That looks fine & easy..than having to punch in all those extra letters which makes less sense to me...... I am not sure of what I did was right YA wrong...but my instincts asked me to get rid of it for good.... & I did.....<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);">Peeps!!!! I would love to hear, what u have to say regarding this..... Since that would help me analyze better..than just follow my instincts....... ;-) So please feel free to share your takes on this...... THANK YOU!!!!!</span><br /><br />And now getting on with the main मुद्दा (<span style="font-style: italic;">Mudda, matter</span>).... of today..... MY PREP 4 TODAY!!!!!!<br /><br />As I had mentioned in my earlier posts, the North Indians have a variety to binge on..... Most of their cuisine is all stuffed...... which is very very pleasing on palates........ which many love & adopt too.... though not a part of their staple diet.....<br /><br />Hmmm.... I am here to post one such stuffed (भरके) delicacy of The North.....<br />My Delicacy in-law!!!!!<br /><br />And that is मटर भरके पूरी और पराता..... Pea stuffed Indian Bread....... This is how it goes........ :-)<br /><br />Ingredients:<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102);font-size:130%;" >For Stuffing</span><br /><br />Fresh Peas - 200 gm<br />Green Chilli - 3<br />Onions - 1 medium (<span style="font-style: italic;">finely chopped</span>)<br />Coriander Leaves - 2 tbsp (<span style="font-style: italic;">finely chopped</span>)<br />Oil - 3tbsp<br />Cumin Seeds - 1/2 tsp<br /><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102);">Masala Powders</span></span><br /><br />Coriander Powder - 1 tsp<br />Cumin Powder - 1 tsp<br />Turmeric Powder - 1/4 tsp<br />Garam Masala - 1tsp<br />Kitchen King Powder - 1 tsp<br />Chaat Masala - 1/4 tsp<br />Red Chilli Powder - 1/4 tsp<br />Salt to Taste<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102);">For the DOUGH:</span></span><br /><br />Wheat Flour - 1/2 kg<br />Salt to Taste<br />Ajwain + Mangrela (<span style="font-style: italic;">Carom Seeds or Oma + Black Sesame Seeds</span>) - 1 tsp ( <span style="font-style: italic;">I keep a mix of both</span>)<br />Oil - 1 tbsp<br />Water as required<br /><br />OIL FOR DEEP FRYING<br /><br />Method :<br /><br />Knead all the above ingredients together & keep aside.....<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(102, 51, 102);">Ps:</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;">For</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;">paratas</span> the dough is kneaded a bit more harder than your regular rotis (<span style="font-style: italic;">chapatis</span>)...... And <span style="font-weight: bold;">for the pooris</span>, the dough is kneaded hard...... Leave it aside covered for a minimum of 30 minutes to let it settle into a soft & fluffy dough......<br /><br />Now boil the fresh peas, mash & keep aside.....<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/PeaParata1.jpg" alt="Pea Stuffing For Both Parata & Poori" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />Heat oil in a wok & add the cumin seeds.... Allow it to splutter.... Then add green chilli & onion together & fry till translucent..... Add all the above mentioned masala powders & stir fry, on a low flame..... for a minimum of 4-5 minutes..... Now add the pea mash & mix to combine well...... Keep stirring at regular intervals for a further 5 minutes..... Now sprinkle the chopped coriander leaves & mix well.... Remove from fire & keep aside to cool........<br /><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102);">FOR PARATAS:</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">{</span>Make lemon sized balls & shape these balls into nice small katoris or bowls..... Fill in a small amount of the pea mixture in & seal it very carefully..... TIGHT!<span style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);"> Believe me the texture of the dough plays a very important role in this.... If it is not kneaded well, the stuffing would make its way through the dough.... every now & then.....</span> Now roll these stuffed balls with a rolling pin, flat & round...... <span style="font-weight: bold;">}</span><br /><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/PeaParata2.jpg" alt="Pea Stuffing For Both Parata & Poori" height="420" width="580" /></p><br />This picture of getting the stuffed balls, posted above goes for both the stuffing ... that of poori & parata.....<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/PeaParata3.jpg" alt="Pea Parata" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />Heat a pan or a skillet (<span style="font-style: italic;">tawa</span>) & place this flattened bread on it.... When one side is done, flip it over to let the other side cook..... Meanwhile smear a teaspoon of oil over it & flip it over again & repeat the oiling process..... When both the sides are well cooked, transfer the parata onto a plate.... Repeat the process with the rest of the dough & stuffing.....<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/PeaParata4.jpg" alt="Pea Stuffed Parata" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />When done serve it hot with sauce, bowl of curd or yogurt or an accompaniment of your choice like a gravy...<a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://asha-oceanichope.blogspot.com/2009/10/mushroom-gravy-anabe-gasi.html">veg</a> or not veg...... Just RELISH!!!!!!!<br /><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102);">FOR POORIS:</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);">You begin the process the same way as mentioned above in </span><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(153, 0, 0);">{</span><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);">flower brackets</span><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(153, 0, 0);">}</span><br /><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/MatarBharkePoori1.jpg" alt="Pea Stuffed Poori" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />Since it is a poori the size of the flattened dough would be considerably small as compared to the above parata....... Heat oil in a deep bottomed vessel or a wok.... When done, drop the flattened bread carefully into the wok or kadai...... & allow it to puff on a side....when done flip it over to let the other side cook as well.... When it turns golden, remove it from the oil & transfer onto an absorbent paper or a tissue..... Repeat the process to consume the entire stuffing & the dough or as required to please your tummy... ;-)<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/MatarBharkePoori2.jpg" alt="Pea Stuffed Poori" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />Now serve them hot & puffed with any favorite accompaniments..... May be a gravy (<span style="font-style: italic;">veg or </span><a style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;" href="http://asha-oceanichope.blogspot.com/2009/12/mutton-gravy-meat-rassa-mutton-saaru.html">non veg</a>) or simply sauce or chutney...... Well my picture shows the Avarekaalu & potato gravy...... YUMMY YUMMY CRIES MY TUMMY!!!!!!! Savor it ALL!!!<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/MatarBharkePoori3.jpg" alt="Pea Stuffed Poori" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />These delicacies make for an awesome break fast, lunch box or a good dinner.......<br /><br />I would like to send this as my entry to the two events that I have longed to participate in..... which are.....<br /><br /><a href="http://veggieplatter.blogspot.com/2009/10/jihva.html">Jihva Breakfast</a> announced by Indira of <a href="http://www.themahanandi.org/2009/04/06/jihva-for-ingredients-2009-2010/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Mahanandi</span></a>, hosted this month by Suma of <a href="http://veggieplatter.blogspot.com/2009/10/jihva.html"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Veggie Platter</span></a>..... Kudos!!!!! to You both...... <br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/CONTESTS%20_%20%20LOGOS/jihva.jpg" alt="JIHVA" height="200" width="200" /></p><br />AND<br /><br />Srilekha of <a href="http://www.srishkitchen.com/2010/02/efm-parathas-and-gravies-curries-series.html"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Me & My Kitchen</span></a> for her <a href="http://www.srishkitchen.com/2010/02/efm-parathas-and-gravies-curries-series.html">EFM Series - Paratas & Gravies recipes</a>...... Kudos!!!!! to you too.....<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/CONTESTS%20_%20%20LOGOS/EFM-PARATAGravySeries.jpg" alt="EFM SERIES" height="200" width="200" /></p><br />The gravies as an accompaniment would be <a href="http://asha-oceanichope.blogspot.com/2009/12/mutton-gravy-meat-rassa-mutton-saaru.html">Meat Rassa</a> in non veg or <a href="http://asha-oceanichope.blogspot.com/2009/10/mushroom-gravy-anabe-gasi.html">Mushroom Gassi</a> in Veg....<br /><br />That is it for now..... Before I wind up I wanted you to remind me of my new <a href="http://hastkala-oceanichope.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">CARD SPACE</span></a>.... DO take a peek into those creations to either bless or curse me..... ;-) Do not forget......<br /><br />And Yes do not forget to <span style="font-weight: bold;">share your thoughts & observations on comment verification,</span> as mentioned at the very beginning,which now is history in my space....... :-)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">ENJOY EVERY MOMENT..... TO THE FULLEST!!!!</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br />UNTIL NEXT, KEEP THE FAITH!!!!!</span><br /><br /><br /><b><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/224/FB86AADF240FA45239B7963BAE4F9753.png" style="border: 0pt none ! important; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial;" /></a></b>Ashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12039911212235165959noreply@blogger.com65tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1541814323693333064.post-20401055933527947432010-03-07T21:27:00.003+05:302010-03-08T18:30:06.559+05:30CHAAR YAAR AUR PYAAR!!!!!! ;-) Four Friends & Love........<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Hmmm.... I am here again.... But questioning myself, if I am losing focus, or rather if I am getting diverted totally........... because of my card making spree at its HEIGHTS!!!!! I have been enjoying myself preparing lovely card recipes, kinda trying to satiate myself by taking up all those ideas thrown by many professionals, challenging my imagination...... I have been able to cook a few recipes, out of those.... which I have posted on my <a href="http://hastkala-oceanichope.blogspot.com/"><b>"Hastkala"...Ashaon Ka</b></a>....... Do not forget to PEEK-A-BOO!!!!!</span><br />
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<img alt="Cardinal Desires" height="420" src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/Myrecent.jpg" width="580" /><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">I have had several drafts to be posted..... But it was kinda difficult to choose, which one of them, now....... And I found this yummy & one of my favorites, Kichdi....... It is a very common preparation in every household of North India....... The way they prepare differs though..... Mainly, they are prepared plain & simple or sometimes prepared rich & a bit more of a task..... Rich in the sense, of the ingredients used in the process....... Depends on what peeps prefer to & when!!!!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">The simple version is assumed to be a <b>sick patients food</b>...... simply because of the ingredients being limited & cooked so well that it turns out to be a porridge......so as to ease the digestion in favor of the SICK...... My Maa in-law says that it is a must prep, every Saturdays for lunch, because of their belief that it rids off the evils or the Negative Cosmic Effect of the Shani Gruha of that day... which is Saturday.....</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">As I mentioned in my earlier posts, when I get sick of the usual & regular food, it tempts me to savor something rich & yummy!!! And I turn towards an awesome rice prep for it..... (If I do not order for a home delivery ;-) And when I am tired of fried rice & Pulaos..... I look for a change, in that too..... And that is when, I plan of this rich, juicy & yummy Kichdi...... And this prep becomes rich simply because of all the special ingredients added.... Like the Ghee, the whole Garam Masala & the Vegetables......</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">And when it is this Rich Kichdi, then it has to be accompanied by the similar match..... By which I mean the additional accompaniments as a side dish...... And it is then I remember the four friends of the Kichdi...... <b style="color: #4c1130;">As is said in HINDI - "Kichdi Ke Chaar Yaar - Dahi, Chokha, Papad aur Achaar"</b> Meaning .....<b>"The four friends of Kichdi are - Yoghurt or set curd, a potato mash, a cracker and Pickle"</b>...... Once you have them by your side, your Lunch seems to be the last thing u eat...... for that day...... Very filling.... I know it looks & seems ELABORATE..... But it gets digested very easily & by evening you are hungry again..... I remember this song at this moment & changing it a bit to suit myself...here...... </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Jahan Chaar Yaar....</span><br style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;" /><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Miljaaye wahan </span><br style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;" /><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Khana ho gulzar....</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Jahan Chaar Yaar!!!!</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
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</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><img alt="Veggies Kichdi" height="420" src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/VeggiesKichdi2.jpg" width="580" /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
Okay....... Do not curse me for my ongoing story of its being.... Let's get down to the prep & its ingredients.....</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">VEGGIES KICHDI</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Ingredients:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Rice - 3/4 cup</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Tuar Dal + Masoor Dal} - 1/2 cup </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">(<i>***I store a mix of both the dals - can be prepared with just Tuar too***</i></span>)<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Cardamom - 4 pieces</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Clove - 6 pieces</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Cinnamon - 1 piece</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Bay Leaf - 2</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Fresh Peas - 1/4 cup</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Carrot - 1 medium</span>, <span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">finely chopped or cubed</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Round Beans - 8 pieces, finely cut</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Refined Oil - 4tbsp</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Ghee - 1tbsp</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Coriander Leaves - 5 twigs</span> <span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">(<i>washed & finely chopped</i>)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Cashew Nut - 8 pieces</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Turmeric Powder - 3/4 tsp</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Green Chilli - 2 to 3, slit lengthwise</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Onion - 1 medium, finely chopped</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Tomato - 1 medium, finley Chopped</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Coriander Powder - 1/2 tsp</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Cumin Powder - 1/2 tsp</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Garam Masala - 1/2 tsp</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Salt to Taste</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Water - 5 cups</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Method:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Wash the rice & the dal togehter or separate & keep aside......</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Heat oil + ghee in a pressure cooker..... Add the whole garam masala..... like the cloves, bay leaf, cinnamon & cardamom.... Saute for a minute & then add the green chilli & saute further for a minute..... Now add the chopped onions & fry till translucent...... Once done, add the chopped tomatoes & stir fry further & cook lightly covered, for 2 minutes, on medium flame...... Then add all the masala powders & stir fry till all the masala combines well & releases a fine aroma...... Now add the cashew, the washed & cubed veggies & mix well.... Stir fry for a minimum of 5 minutes...... When done add the washed rice & dal & stir fry for 2 minutes..... Now add the water & stir once to combine all the ingredients.... Now lock the lid of the cooker & let it whistle for minimum 6 whistles.... Then turn off the flame...... Once all the steam is released, open the lid, add in the chopped coriander leaves & mix once......</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><img alt="Veggies Kichdi" height="420" src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/VeggiesKichdi1.jpg" width="580" /></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">CHOKHA</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Ingredients:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Potato - 1 medium</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Dry Red Chilli - 1</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Onion - 1/2, chopped finely</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Salt to taste</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Mustard Oil - 1/4 tsp</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Garlic Cloves - 2 , finely chopped</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Method:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Boil the potato & peel the skin off..... Now mash it well...... Now heat the oil in a small fry pan & fry the broken chilli & chopped garlic, till golden brown....... Now add this along with the oil, onto the mashed potato..... Add salt & chopped onions & mix well by hand....... The Chokha or the potato mash is ready......</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><img alt="Veggies Kichdi" height="420" src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/Kichdi4yaar1.jpg" width="580" /></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
SERVING:</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Serve the veggies Kichdi, along with the chokha & a dash of pickle, yoghurt & fried crackers or papads..... Add a dab of ghee onto the rice & savor the divinity of this prep, which would reach your soul.... finally....... <b>ALL YUMMY YUMMY!!!!!</b></span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><img alt="Veggies Kichdi" height="420" src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/FullMeal.jpg" width="580" /></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Since this a Perfect COMBO preparation..... This prep makes its way to the <a href="http://cooking-goodfood.blogspot.com/2010/02/my-100th-post-jackfruit-biryani-raita.html">COMBO EVENT</a>, hosted by Pari, marking her milestone...... This is her very first... Challenge hosting..... I'm glad I could finally be a part of it...... CHEERS!!!</span></b><br />
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<img alt="Cardinal Desires" height="160" src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/CONTESTS%20_%20%20LOGOS/comboevent.gif" width="280" /><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">BLOGFARES:</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">There are a couple of TOFAS, that I need to mention about........</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><a href="http://simplysensationalfood.blogspot.com/2010/02/thankyou-and-awards.html"><b>Simply Food</b></a> shared her love through this cute & yummy TOFA..... The Loyalty Award..... It is really beautiful.... And it was her happiness that made her spread the cheers further...... I am so thankful to her for that cutie......</span><br />
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<img alt="Loyalty Award" height="200" src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/Strawberry-Shortcake-bike-6.jpg" width="151" /><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">And I would also like to thank Jagruti of <a href="http://joyofcooking247.blogspot.com/2010/03/guava-chutneyjamfal-chutney-and-awards.html"><b>Joy OF Cooking</b></a>, for sharing her TOFAS...... But just like the AD of Bournville, which uses the tagline.... "U DON'T JUST BUY A BOURNVILLE.... U EARN IT" , Jagruti's TOFA comes with a similar tagline too..... U don't just get them...</span> <span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">U get them with a tag......</span><br />
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<img alt="Smart Blogger" height="220" src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/SmartFoodBlogger.jpg" width="219" /><br />
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<img alt="Honest Scrap" height="200" src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/honestscrap.jpg" width="149" /><br />
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<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>First</b>, Brag about it.......</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Second</b>, flaunt it on your blog & link the one who tagged you......</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Third</b>, Share 10 things about yourself..... Which I have done already.... <a href="http://asha-oceanichope.blogspot.com/2010/01/make-room-for-mushrooms.html"><b>HERE!</b></a><br />
And <b>Fourth</b>, Pass the Cheers to peeps, letting them know about it......<br />
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Hmmm... Today with all the pleasure & happiness, <b>I request everyone to GRAB IT from here...... PLEASE DO!!!!!</b> I would be happy if u did so..... along with my TOFA........ from my <a href="http://asha-oceanichope.blogspot.com/2010/02/exotica.html"><b>previous post</b></a>....... (<i>Peeps who forgot to pick it</i>) ;-) </div><br />
<img alt="Thank You" height="200" src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/ThankYou.jpg" width="200" /><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">And this month Jagruti is hosting her first event.... <a href="http://joyofcooking247.blogspot.com/2010/03/announcing-my-first-event.html"><b>Joyful Eating Whilst Travelling</b></a>....... So my dear peeps, do send in your entries to this awesome event..... Let us all get hold of those moments of travelling & picture them together..... being a part of your experience...... HURRY!!!!!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">I also thank Daisy Blue of <a href="http://spicylounge.blogspot.com/2010/03/award-time.html"><b>Spicy Lounge</b></a> for sharing this honest scrap, with me.... Thank You Deary!!!! It means a lot to know that I was thought...... :-) </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">And the last but never the least, I am thankful to Fimere of <a href="http://auxdelicesdesgourmets.blogspot.com/2010/03/prix-offrir.html#googtrans/fr/en"><b>The Delights Of Gourmets</b></a> for remembering me during her small distribution of TOFA.......</span> <span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">She shared this unique cubical piece of TOFA with me.... Thank You!!!!!!</span><br />
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<img alt="Cubed" height="220" src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/pimavara-la-cub-t4e0cb6fbn6s.jpg" width="210" /><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Hmmmm...... Well I thought of continuing & ending my <b>EK CHOTISI LOVE STORY</b>...... today.....</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><a href="http://asha-oceanichope.blogspot.com/2010/02/love-is-indeed-in-air.html"><b>HERE</b></a> is the First Part of my story...... After that lovely, interesting & a <span style="color: #741b47;">private & secret proposal</span>, which was rather a <span style="color: #741b47;">FIRST TIMER</span>....... & after that realisation of our love for each other..... We met everyday..... He would always wait for me around, & I would drop in, mount the bike & zoom away....... We went on several dates ...... of course.... Our destination was the Sankey Tank...... We shared our thoughts, we shared our opinions, our likes & dislikes, we shared chocolates, we would have our lunch out...... It went on..... <b><span style="color: #741b47;">We were very soon the TALK OF THE TOWN</span></b>...... U know!!! how people, <span style="color: #741b47;">especially aunties GOSSIP!!!!!</span> He moved away from my neighbourhood...but not far off.... so that I could visit him conveniently..... Neighbours around thought THAT WAS THE END OF OUR STORY!!!!!!! How Funny & Foolish of them all!!!!!!! to think that I was like them...... Hmm.... who would just give up!!!! like a loser....... I knew what I wanted, FOR & IN MY LIFE........ <span style="color: #741b47;">I wanted to have the LAST LAUGH!!!!!!! </span>I had decided...... He had decided that it was me for him....... Why should anything else bother us???????</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">After his studies, he went back home, to Giridih, a place in Bihar...... And I pursued my Post Graduation..... We were connected through letters, cards & through out over the phone...... He would call me any time possible..... Early morning, afternoon, evening, late evening, night & late nights too..... We were so stuck to our telephones that, the instrument became a part of us.... It had become the<span style="color: #4c1130;"> 'TESTIMONY - PERSONIFIED'</span>...... Any moment that I got to get out of home.... I would run to a telephone booth..... And that moment may be the silliest of all.... Like my mom would ask me to get some ingredient she fell short off..... And in the process, I would also make a call & let him know that I was out & for what reason.... And my bills ran up... I needed quite a sum to pay them off..... My pocket money did not have the potential to satisfy it..... I lied for more at home.... But sometimes got caught too...in the process..... After some days Kuku started depositing some money into my account.... That helped me to cope up with my telephone bills & few of my other small expenditures too...... Hmmm.... That was my side of the story.... </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Kuku called me every now & then..... His father once received a telephone bill of Rs. 25,000 for a month.... after which they locked the STD..... Then Kuku started calling me from the booths around.... He made many BOOTH FRIENDS ;-) ..... He called me up at my computer class.... where I had made friends with all the people around..... One particular guy who I would like to mention is Mr. Palecanda Nanjunda..... Who was young & dashing.... who hailed from Coorg...... He was very understanding & helped me receive calls from Kuku, at his office..... I would never ever forget his support, then...... </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="color: #4c1130;">Kuku came down to Bangalore to see me every Valentine's Day & on My Birthdays..... </span>Never missed on his visits, Either he resided with some of his friends who were here or would take a room at a hotel for his stay... Those days were really such beautiful days, when we were just worried about each other & nothing else under the sun...... Since my DAD was against this alliance....all we thought was how would everything fall into its place.....</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">At Kuku's place.... He had a big family of 4 sisters & an elder brother & his family...... He was the apple of their eyes..... They loved him so much..... All they wanted was his happiness..... He had kept his family in loop..... He got his sisters to talk to me & got me to speak to his mom, in between too..... They received my communications for him, when he was not around..... I got my mom to talk to his mom too..... Everything was fine, except for my dad..... </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Days passed, Months passed, Years passed too...... And with them our love & feelings for each other increased..... We both knew what we wanted..... We were both bent upon making this happen..... And one fine day I wrote to his dad, asking him to fix it all & that only he would be able to convince my dad..... Kuku's papa spoke to him, about what he wanted & when Kuku confided in him, they decided to visit my place & talk to my parents...... I was happy to see some kind of advancement happening..... </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">It was that day they had to visit my place.... My dad was not at all happy..... He never wanted them to reach home.... He was all cursing me & Kuku...... The most important thing that bothered my dad was the <b>'BIHARI STIGMA'.... </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">They dropped in by evening..... Kuku, his mom, dad & his little sister..... I was very happy to see that positive response to my letter, from his Papa.... They sat, they spoke their heart out, his mom was a good orator... She had the gift of the gab..... His dad was a gentleman, with a large amount of politeness, generosity, understanding, positivity & words very polished...... My mom became his greatest fan...... She was so impressed by him..... & still is..... His sister was very sweet too.... She clicked a few pictures to register the moment..... & they left......</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">After they all left.... I over heard my dad tell mom, that the guy was good & so was his family..... <b>That was THE MOMENT</b>...... of relief....... The moment I knew, that <b>REST WOULD BE FINE</b>..... And so was it..... My parents were invited to his place, they came back very happy & impressed...... The dates were out for all the HAPPY happenings.... by which I mean ceremonies..... And it was decided that the 6th of March would be the official engagement & the 7 th of March would be the WEDDING......<b> I invited all those nosey neighbours & those gossiping aunties to my wedding, who were all stunned to hear that I was getting married to THAT same guy..... Few of those aunties, did not turn up..... to see me laugh......</b></span> <span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Few of them asked me Oh! that guy..... Do show me a snap to remind me of him, to which I humbly replied, do see him at the Wedding Reception......</span> <span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Ha! Ha! Ha!</span> <span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">I deemed with pride, with my head held HIGH, up in the air......</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Kuku & his family along with the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baraat"><b>baraati</b></a>, (<i>The procession accompanied by friends & family in a Hindu Wedding</i>) came down to my hometown PUTTUR at Mangalore...... Which was surely a journey they would all remember for their entire life..... FOR BOTH THE FAMILIES..... IT WAS A TIME THEY WOULD NEVER FORGET......All those things that they never thought they would ever do or those places they never thought would ever visit..... THEY HAD DONE IT ALL...... </span><br />
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<span style="color: #4c1130; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">We got engaged on the 6th, got married on the 7th & left to Bangalore that same night for a reception at Bangalore the next day...which was the 8th of March...... On the 9th, we left to Nagpur, where they resided then...... We reached the next day, which was the 10th.... I was warmly welcomed by my new family....... Their traditional way..... In a BASKET....... That was very funny & interesting.... I still laugh remembering those moments..... The next day that was on the 11th of March was the reception there from the Groom's side..... Thus ended the 12 days of my wedding affair.....</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">That was the snippet of my <b style="color: #4c1130;">HAPPILY MARRIED Love Story...... IN SHORT</b>.... Because if I went into details, I would not have been able to complete my Story even by 8-10 posts........as it involves many many things like people, situations, seconds, minutes, hours, days, weeks,months & years of love & longing for each other......</span> ;-)<br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">By the grace of ALMIGHTY! & the blessings of our friends, teachers & families, we tied our sacred nuptial knot on the 7th of March 2002...... <b style="color: #741b47;">Hence we complete 8 YEARS of our MARRIED LIFE TOGETHER, TODAY......</b> & Look Forward to many more..... which I am sure of...... even after we are gone...... </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Hmmm.... but this year, celebration was not like we expected it to be unlike our previous years..... <b>First</b> - my health, <b>Second</b> - we are held up with so many things in hand..... </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> Oh! BTW......people from my home sent me these...... That card was made by my brother........ good one as ever..... We are both kinda stuck up to cards now...... May be it is in our blood... Now I realize..... ;-) The only difference is that he is a Graphics Designer, who would make cards that way... And I am passionate paper cards maker..... Anyways, Thanks a ton........ for all the efforts he put in to make that for US...... </span><br />
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<img alt="Gifts" height="420" src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/8thAnni1.jpg" width="580" /><br />
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<img alt="Card" height="420" src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/8thAnni2.jpg" width="580" /><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Me & Kuku prepared a small, yet nice lunch for ourselves...... I made the Rice & the Kebabs & he prepared his special delicacy... The Chicken Rassa....... And we had a quite lunch together..... It was just the two of us & our LOVE.......... I pray to God, to keep this happiness with me forever....... be it whatever that he takes in return........ from me......</span><br />
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<img alt="8th Anni LUNCH" height="420" src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/8thAnni3.jpg" width="580" /><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">So this is Ash...... signing off..... for now.... to celebrate the rest fo the DAY, Oops! night with KUKU.........</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">UNTIL NEXT, KEEP THE FAITH!!!!!!</span></b><br />
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<b><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/224/FB86AADF240FA45239B7963BAE4F9753.png" style="-moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; border: 0pt none ! important;" /></a></b>Ashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12039911212235165959noreply@blogger.com54tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1541814323693333064.post-70658681643199388872010-02-27T20:46:00.000+05:302010-02-27T20:46:06.759+05:30EXOTICA !!!!!!!!<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Hello Everyone!!!!! Its <span style="color: purple;">THE</span> time!!!! The time I started this blog last year...... Hmmm.... Time Flies!!!!! As always..... </div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">It feels like just yesterday...... and it is already a year now..... <span style="color: #741b47;">The time My Blog "ASRA"...ASHAON KA, celebrates its first anniversary..... I am so happy on this accomplishment.... </span><br />
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When I started, little did I know, about blogging...... & that I would be blogging seriously..... & would be bonding to make few new relationships, part of my life too....<span style="color: purple;"> People I did not know existed</span>......till then, are a part of me now....They are a part of my conversations with my hubby..... <span style="color: purple;">their works of perfection, simplicity, elegance, glamor & most importantly DELICIOUSLY SCRUMPTIOUS!!!!!!</span><br />
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Just like <a href="http://abhi-ruchi.blogspot.com/">Rashmi</a> & <a href="http://ruchikacooks.com/?p=1672">Ruchika</a>.... I was a newbie then too..... But sincerely it took me sometime to understand all the HTML things & other matters that involved.......But they have grown up to be Genius now, within a short span of time.... I now enjoy reading what they post & love to write for them tooo (<i>comments</i>)..... I then wondered how would I be awarded & when done, how would I collect them & from where & how would I flaunt them on my space...... How very 'New'bie, of me??????<br />
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I felt very much like a newcomer.... Like a kid who attends her first day at school...... & would just keep looking around at the atmosphere there, her teachers, other kids like her & some really extraordinary..... the veterans who are very experienced & big, the way they carry themselves, their attire, the way they speak, looking at all this, thinking that she is a no one & wondering, would she able to cope with all of that outstanding aura.... around....And then after a thought, managing herself, making up an imaginary sculpture of a Guru (<i>teacher</i>) like Guru Dronacharya & confiding in herself that she would be an Ekalavya.... who would try to master that subject, to prove herself....... I do not know if I have been able to prove myself..... but yes I am satisfied that I have been able to gain appreciations, from peeps all around....... Their candid expressions & love that they all share on me & my work are moments for me to be treasured..... <br />
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To be truthful ..... I would like to tell you that LOVE is the ONLY part of my treasure & accounts.... I am really happy & proud of it....... The more I spend, the more it increases..... The foundation of course was laid by <span style="color: #c27ba0;">Kuku - My Teenage Heart Throb, My Present Sweet Heart & My Future Love & support</span>....... <br />
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Oh! I get carried away easily, though!!!! Traveling back with time..... Yes! It is anniversary time..... & I would take this opportunity to share about another newbie..... My lovey lovey newie...... Blog....... Dedicated for my crafty challenges..... I request all, to share your love on my new blog, supporting my Card Making Spree...too..... <br />
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<b>Title :</b> <a href="http://hastkala-oceanichope.blogspot.com/">"HASTKALA"...ASHAON KA</a><br />
<b>URL :</b> <a href="http://hastkala-oceanichope.blogspot.com/">http://hastkala-oceanichope.blogspot.com/</a><br />
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Marking the Birthday of my Blog, I have made a card, to just symbolize & celebrate the day..... which is posted on <a href="http://hastkala-oceanichope.blogspot.com/2010/02/thoroughly-challenged.html">my new blog</a>.....<br />
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Any thoughts & suggestions.... to help me improve my space & my work....... is always a WELCOME!!!!! I would look forward to it eagerly.... on my toe...... ;-)<br />
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I could not do much yesterday to celebrate my Blog Anniversary..... I went hunting for my 'Card'inal paraphernalia...... So I missed on posting yesterday & even preparing something special to celebrate the occasion, unlike many others...... I know & have seen my fellow bloggers celebrating this blessed day...... with yummilicious cakes & such delicacies..... My hubby, on the way picked up some sweets to celebrate the day, though...... So I had a tiny get together.... with just me & Kuku......<br />
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After much thinking & rummaging my drafts, I found this dessert-not-posted.......... Hence thought of posting it today..... 'post' anniversary!!! - (<i>Pun Intended </i>;-)<br />
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So here is the delicious Badam Halwa or the Almonds Pudding....... JUST FOR YOU!!!!!<br />
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<img alt="Badam Exotica" height="420" src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/BadamHalwa1.jpg" width="580" /><br />
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<b>BADAM EXOTICA</b><br />
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Ingredients:<br />
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Almonds (<i>Badam, Baadaami</i>) - 1 cup<br />
Milk - 3/4 cup<br />
Sugar - 3/4 cup or as desired<br />
Cardamom(Elaichi) - 4 pieces<br />
Cashew nut - 10 <br />
Raisins - 10<br />
Ghee - 3tbsp<br />
Saffron (Kesar, Kesari) - 1 tsp or A pinch, Optional<br />
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<img alt="Badam Exotica" height="420" src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/BadamHalwa2.jpg" width="580" /><br />
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Method:<br />
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Soak almonds in water for minimum 4 hours. Then peel the skin & grind it to make a corse textured paste....... Boil the milk & keep aside.... Fry the cashew & raisins in a tsp of ghee, till golden brown & keep aside.....<br />
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Now heat ghee in a thick bottomed vessel or a wok. Add the ground almond paste & stir fry for minimum 5 minutes or till the color changes & a sweet aroma is released...... <br />
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<b>NOTE:</b> No attempting at escaping moments...... STIRRING HAS TO BE CONTINUOUS.... till the halwa is completely DONE...............<br />
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<img alt="Badam Exotica" height="420" src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/Soakedalmonds.jpg" width="580" /><br />
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<img alt="Badam Exotica" height="420" src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/AlmondPaste.jpg" width="580" /><br />
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Now add the boiled or condensed milk & the cashews & raisins too......Stir fry further for 25 minutes, while the mixture bubbles or till all the milk is absorbed & the mixture leaves the sides of the vessel. Turn off the flame & add sugar.... Leave it 5 minutes to let the sugar dissolve.... When done mix it well & garnish. Serve it, ready to eat.....<br />
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So that was The Exotica from me to every single soul who shared their love on me & my blog........ <br />
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<img alt="Badam Exotica" height="420" src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/BadamHalwa3.jpg" width="580" /><br />
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I would like to make this a small <b>Thanks Giving Ceremony.</b>..... <br />
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First & foremost my Kuku, who bore all my delays, right from me preparing to prepare the food till the food was served...... He had to wait & wait, till I was all done with all my required arrangements & CLICKS!!!!!!! <span style="color: #741b47;">He would wait & I would just go <b>Click! Click! Click! ;-)</b></span> Many a times he had to even wait to bed, till I was done with all the punching of comments & appreciations on my fellow bloggers blogs...... And most of the preps that I have not only known but posted too, was because of his interest in cooking...... Thanks Kuku!!!!!<br />
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My brother Amrith, for making this space look so welcoming & NICE..... Breaking the ice of Monotony of a regular blog......He kinda customized it for me as far as possible, with few of his ideas & few of Ours..(<i>both our heads put together</i> :-) Thanks Amrith!!!!<br />
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My Amma for her shared recipes, some from Mangalorean Cuisine & some of her own..... My Badimaa (<i>Dodamma</i>) too for her share of preps...... My Maa in-law & Sisters in-law for all the Delicacies in-law, on my post..... If not for them, for the days I was with them & learn't few preps... most of my posts would not have happened...... Than Mangalorean preps, I have more of Bihari cuisine, listed & posted here..... for me as well as all...... Because all that I have learn't & cook is what they have shared & let me know..... Nothing of my own..... <br />
Hence Thanks Amma, Dodamma, Maa, Bhabi & Deedi for all the support rendered!!!!!<br />
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Last but certainly not the least..... <span style="color: #a64d79;">I owe all my thanks to this BLOGGYWOOD..... The Blog fraternity</span>..... for all their time to time love, appreciations & comments ...... More than me, Kuku is so much addicted to reading them..... Early morning even before I would wake up, he would check my mail comments, when he checked his mails...... He would be so excited with all the words of admiration that people showered on me..... He felt happy that I had totally engaged myself in this..... He would just wait for me to wake up to share the comments with me.... & <span style="color: #a64d79;">when he found no comments he would say, may be it is time for you to post your next......</span> He would not read them on my blog.... So, many a times even if I do with the comments on my blog, I would still leave the ones in my mail, untouched, only for him to read & relish!!!!!!! So that is the role that my fellow bloggers play in my life...... </div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Hence, Thanks to YOU ALL!!!!!!!<br />
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<b>TOFA</b><br />
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It is also the time to flaunt few appreciations received from my blogger friends.......<br />
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Srilekha of <a href="http://www.srishkitchen.com/2010/02/efm-mutton-series-round-up.html%20">Me & My Kitchen</a> shared this beautiful TOFA, which I am really proud of, for participating in the <a href="http://www.srishkitchen.com/2010/02/efm-mutton-series-round-up.html">EFM-Mutton Series</a>, she held......<br />
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<img alt="Chef Award" height="300" src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/chefaward.gif" width="300" /><br />
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Jagruti from <a href="http://joyofcooking247.blogspot.com/2010/02/avacado-pesto-pasta.html%20">Joy Of Cooking</a> shared this beautiful Smile, as a mark of her 50th post.....<br />
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<img alt="Smile Award" height="200" src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/image002smile.gif" width="200" /><br />
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& Suparna of <a href="http://therecipehunter.blogspot.com/2010/02/awards-shower.html">Food Fascination</a> shared these beautiful set of TOFAS...... I was quick to pick those pieces that were not a part of my <span style="color: #a64d79;">'Treasured Tofas' or 'Blogfares'</span>........ Is it greedy????? Na! Nope....... I would say, it is just being aware of MY PICKS!!!!!! Is it not???? I thought so...... too........ ;-)<br />
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<img alt="Lemonade Award" height="200" src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/LemonadeAwardfromsreelekhasumesh.png" width="195" /><br />
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<img alt="Scrumptious Award" height="200" src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/Scrumptious.jpg" width="200" /><br />
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<img alt="Nice" height="280" src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/1Just_Nice_Photos_Award2.jpg" width="169" /><br />
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<img alt="Award" height="153" src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/awardfromSreelekhaSumesh.jpg" width="160" /><br />
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<img alt="Award" height="320" src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/awardfromsreelekhasumesh____.jpg" width="249" /><br />
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And me would not wanna be just a recipient, but would love to be a donor too...... Ooo! What expressions I use sometimes???? It surprises me too..... that I can connect things..... Sometimes very cleverly... & sometimes very amusingly (not exact funnily, but weirdly too)..........<br />
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<b>Dhan Tana!!!!!</b> <b><span style="color: #a64d79;">Here's this piece that I made as a token of my LOVE to YOU ALL........ Marking my time of celebration...... Kindly accept........ :-)</span></b><br />
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<img alt="Award" height="200" src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/ThankYou.jpg" width="200" /><br />
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Another year of Colors & Joy!!!!! I wish everyone a very Happy Holi!!!!!<br />
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<b>WISHING A LIFE FULL OF COLORS!!!!!<br />
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UNTIL NEXT, KEEP THE FAITH!!!!!</b></div><br />
<b><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/224/FB86AADF240FA45239B7963BAE4F9753.png" style="-moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; border: 0pt none ! important;" /></a></b>Ashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12039911212235165959noreply@blogger.com55tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1541814323693333064.post-78071793467524183762010-02-21T01:16:00.013+05:302010-02-21T20:40:17.658+05:30CHALLENGING EVENTS - All The Way........<p>I thank every one of you, who showered your love & wishes on me & my <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://asha-oceanichope.blogspot.com/2010/02/love-is-indeed-in-air.html">previous post</a>...... <span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);">Every single mail I read, made me jump with JOY!!!!</span> It made me start my day with lots of happiness & cheer....... The happiness lasted on my face & lips till the time I went to bed at night, in the form of a smile...... Kindly accept my sincere <span style="font-weight: bold;">THANKS.... ALL!!!!!!!!</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">And as for my story further, I would write about it later... sometime..... I surely will..... as I enjoy sharing my ONLY & MAJOR achievement of my LIFE....</span></p>I would like to congratulate Priya of <a style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;" href="http://recipes-priya.blogspot.com/2010/02/its-time-to-celebrate-my-200th-post.html">Priyas Recipes</a> on her 200th post..... & thank her for sharing this beautiful TOFA...... as a memento, of, her time of celebrations....... Thank You & God Bless!!!<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/lovelyblog.png" alt="Make Room 4 LOBIA" height="206" width="320" /></p><br /><br />Recent days I've just been spending time <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">Blog Hopping</span> & browsing many more interesting sites ..... I came across many Indian bloggers who were into arts & crafts too.... I was so thrilled to encounter their works..... Works of art & joy..... So I was kinda busy & engrossed in enjoying their master pieces..... Meanwhile I came across<span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);"> few challenges & events</span> too.... Hence thought of participating, too..... So this post of today is basically just that..... but all that, with all those awesome challenges ...... ;-)<br /><br />And hence participating, for the first time, as far as craft was concerned, I clubbed two of them in one of mine.... Because of my recent card making spree, at its heights, I was swayed by these challenges..... It felt like they were at open just for me...... What more.... without wasting a moment.... I indulged myself in a simple card for the occasions......<br /><br />One is the <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">Black & White + 1 challenge</span> by Michelle of <a style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;" href="http://scrappyhour.wordpress.com/2010/02/01/february-challenge/">Scrappy Hours</a> & the<br />Other is the <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">Get Well Soon challenge</span> by Paula of <a style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;" href="http://creativecardcrew.blogspot.com/2010/02/challenge-45-get-well-soon.html">Creative Card Crew</a>......... It is like the creative card crew are up for some scrappy hours.... together...... Hmm.... I like it..... So it is the Get Well Soon with a color theme...... rather a color-less theme, easily conveying, misses & kisses to the person down in health............. :-)<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/GREETING%20CARDS/BlacknWhite1.jpg" alt="colorless getwell" height="580" width="420" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/GREETING%20CARDS/BlacknWhite2.jpg" alt="colorless getwell" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/GREETING%20CARDS/BlacknWhite3.jpg" alt="colorless getwell" height="420" width="580" /></p><br />Find a place there for yourself my deary '<span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">first challenged creation</span>'!!!!!!! TATA!!!!! ;-)<br /><br /><br />I also came across this unique event called <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">'THE NO COOK EVENT'</span>.... which I found very interesting, because of its name & theme..... My past as far as cooking is concerned has been really bad.....<br /><br />When I started working, before seven years, I got really exhausted with my timings & traveling...... And after I reached home, I went to bed with my odd working hours.... As soon as I woke up, I got ready for my next shift..... Within no time, my cab was ready to pick me up.... And went the 4 hours long traveling, both to & fro...... I used to be a <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">dead meat</span> :-( by the time, I reached home...<br /><br />Hence was my routine for a year, as I was in a Graveyard Shift (<span style="font-style: italic;">night shift</span>)..... I never ever cooked at home.... My hubby managed out & me at my work place...... The only thing we prepared at home was hot beverages, Tea or Coffee...... Or just boiled water...... Sometimes, 2 minutes Maggi.....too....<br /><br />During my offs I was way tired & exhausted & only wanted to spend my time with Kuku..... So always ended up ordering food from food joints & Pizzas from Pizza Corner, or for a change went to mom's place or she packed, parceled or sometimes delivered food home..... <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">On the whole our daily bread was from or at daily eat-outs.....</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">So with this kinda routine, my first cooking gas lasted for a year or more.....</span> People would be surprised to see that themselves or when I tell them this, which was a fact.....<br /><br />But after a year, I got my timings changed to a day shift..... which changed my life & routine for good..... To a certain extent, I started preparing meals at home.... I prepared for Kuku & sometimes for my lunchbox too..... I loved it.... I felt more like a married woman, then.... A responsible homely lady....... But even then I did escape cooking many a times due to exhaustion........<br /><br />But now past 2 years, after I quit my job..... I am the most happiest .... I loved cooking for Kuku & me.... But this became more interesting only after I started off with blogging.... In order to post my preps, I would always discover & look out for varieties.... My hubby is happy, as he gets to taste varieties at home now..... <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">He is 'all thanks to my Blog'</span> !!!!! But still there are days, when I try to escape this routine.... & hunt for some no cooking involved meals or portions of food to just satiate my appetite...... <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">Me, cooking for myself!!!!!??????*****</span>, would be the last thing I would engage or involve myself in....... <span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">I prefer to take a corner & cry for no reason than cooking for ME!!!!! Upphh!</span><br /><br />And while doing this, one day when Kuku was late to return home & I was hungry..... My eyes fell on the <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">bananas </span>I had in my fruit bowl.... <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">I don't like them until & unless I am suffering from cold</span>..... The thought of the Prasad I ate as a child, at a temple near by, crossed my mind..... It was a simple & yummy prep, but I loved it a lot in the form of <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">Prasad</span> (<span style="font-style: italic;">DIVINE FOOD</span>), to which they added a dash of honey..... So I made it without honey& had it too, to satisfy my hunger pangs then.....<br /><br />This is what it is ....... <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">Bowled Banana</span> ..... Yes! as the name suggests... it is....... No No! U don't make a bowl out of a banana but simply cut them & transfer into a bowl....... YES!!!!! It is a kind of banana salad, if you may call so or simply is a banana bowl.....ho! ho! & this is how it goes......<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/Bananabowl1.jpg" alt="Bowled Bananas" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">Bowl-ed Banana</span><br /><br />Ingredients:<br /><br />Ripe Banana - 1<br />Dessicated Coconut - 1 tbsp (<span style="font-style: italic;">fresh or frozen</span>)<br />Sugar - 2 tsp or as desired<br /><br />Method:<br /><br />Peel the banana, but of course, & cut them into rounds. Transfer them into a bowl. Add the dessicated coconut in & sprinkle sugar...... You can either leave it for sometime for the sugar to dissolve or have it as it is, if you enjoy the sugary bits & bites......<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/Bananabowl2.jpg" alt="Bowled Bananas" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />So you see, without really getting into the kitchen, you can have a healthy, nutritious & yummy bowl of energy..... Hmmmm..... I surely cooked a No Cook meal for the LOVELY ME & this makes its way to the <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">' NO COOK'</span> Event held by PJ of <a style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;" href="http://seduceyourtastebuds.blogspot.com/2010/01/announcing-no-cook-event.html">Seduce Your Taste Buds</a>..........<br /><br />That is all for now.......<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">UNTIL NEXT, KEEP THE FAITH!!!!!!</span><br /><br /><br /><b><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/224/FB86AADF240FA45239B7963BAE4F9753.png" style="border: 0pt none ! important; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial;" /></a></b>Ashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12039911212235165959noreply@blogger.com43tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1541814323693333064.post-4956674063193585532010-02-14T10:04:00.032+05:302010-02-14T16:42:36.695+05:30LOVE IS INDEED IN THE AIR!!!!!!!<p>I have quite a few things to share today...... Other than my all time sadness, I have had lots of happy moments & treasures...... A milestone, an anniversary, many appreciations & of course my '<span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">card making</span>' passion with cards for occasions....... MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!!!! but truly, leading to many more such missions.... of course to be accomplished...... which I will for sure....... I just pray God for patience & courage to bear all the miseries & for more LOVE ..... ALL MY WAY..... by my one & ONLY Kuku........</p><p><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(153, 0, 0);">ASRA PANTHIS</span><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);"> :</span><br /></p>I have just accomplished a triple number in my PANTHIS........ which I am very happy about..... That shows my work has been widely appreciated & liked by many, unknown till then, but now part of my life as a blogger....... And that is sheer MAGIC!!!!!!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(153, 0, 0);">TOFAS :</span><br /><br />I have been remembered by many blogger friends during their felicitations..... It really means a lot to know that I am being thought of too..... & so is my work. This was like I had been flooded with appreciations......<br /><br /><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/blogaward.jpg" alt="Blog Loving" height="146" width="200" /> <img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/SmartFoodBlogger.jpg" alt="Smart Blogger" height="200" width="200" /> <img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/thanku.jpg" alt="Thank u" height="200" width="200" /><br /><br /><br /><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/kreativblogger.jpg" alt="Kreativ" height="175" width="175" /> <img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/happy-101.jpg" alt="Happy 101" height="200" width="200" /> <img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/Beautifulbloggeraward.jpg" alt="Beautiful Blogger" height="200" width="200" /><br /><br /><br /> <img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/Cheerreading-1.jpg" alt="Cheer" height="200" width="300" /><br /><br /><br />I thank Neethu Binoi of <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://neetzkitchen.blogspot.com/2010/02/double-award.html">Kitchen Express</a> for that love she conferred on me through all these tokens of love..... Thank You Neethu & may God Bless you with more happiness that you spread through your cheers..... (<span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">Kreativ Blogger, Happy 101, Cheer Leading, Beautiful Blogger, Blog Loving & Smart Blogger</span>)<br /><br />I thank deary Sarah Naveen of <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.vazhayila.com/2010/02/kappa-beef-curry.html">Vazhayila!!!</a> for again remembering my work & me during the occasion of TOFA distribution........ She shared her <span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">Blog loving & Smart Blogger</span> TOFAS with me.... Thank You Sarah!!!!!<br /><br />I thank Jisha of<span style="font-style: italic;"> </span><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://jishaskitchen.blogspot.com/2010/02/smart-food-blogger-award.html">Jisha's Kitchen</a> for inspiring me with <span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">smart blogger & tagging me</span> to thank the one who gave me this, Which I am from all my heart & to pass it on dearies around, which is following this THANKSGIVING...... :-)<br /><br />I am grateful to Devi of <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://fresherscookbook.blogspot.com/2010/02/awards-from-dear-friends-jisha.html">Freshers Cook Book</a> for inspiring me with the <span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">Kreativ Tag, Thank U & Smart Blogger</span>...... Hmmm....as far as the <span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">tag</span><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);"> </span>is concerned, you can know me <a style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;" href="http://asha-oceanichope.blogspot.com/2010/01/aasaan-e-parata-me-with-all-happenings.html">HERE!</a> & I am really thankful for considering me worth of these beautiful TOFAS......<br /><br />I would love to share ALL the above with & spread cheers to my fellow bloggers, as well.........<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">Ramya Manja of </span><a style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 0, 0);" href="http://mysignaturedishes.blogspot.com/2010/02/radish-and-aloo-parata.html">Veg Delicacies</a><a style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 0, 0);" href="http://mysignaturedishes.blogspot.com/2010/02/radish-and-aloo-parata.html">!!!</a><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">Chitra of </span><a style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 0, 0);" href="http://anyonecan-cook.blogspot.com/">Ratatouille</a><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">Cool Lassi of </span><a style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 0, 0);" href="http://pangravykadaicurry.blogspot.com/">Pan Gravy Kadai Curry </a><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">Suparna of </span><a style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 0, 0);" href="http://therecipehunter.blogspot.com/">Food Fascination</a><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">Pari of </span><a style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 0, 0);" href="http://cooking-goodfood.blogspot.com/">Foodelicious</a><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 0, 0);"> </span><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">Sushma Mallya of </span><a style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 0, 0);" href="http://authenticfooddelights.blogspot.com/">Authentic Food Delights </a><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">LG of </span><a style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 0, 0);" href="http://www.tasteofmysore.com/">Taste of Mysore</a><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">JGH of </span><a style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 0, 0);" href="http://nyackbackyard.blogspot.com/">Nyack Backyard</a><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">Ambika of </span><a style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 0, 0);" href="http://ambikaskitchen.blogspot.com/">Ambika's Kitchen</a><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">Dolly of </span><a style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 0, 0);" href="http://curryandbeyond.blogspot.com/">Curry & beyond</a><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">Anu of </span><a style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 0, 0);" href="http://anusouthrecipes.blogspot.com/">Anu's Yummy Recipes</a><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">Rashmi of </span><a style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 0, 0);" href="http://abhi-ruchi.blogspot.com/">Abhi-Ruchi </a><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">Ruchika of </span><a style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 0, 0);" href="http://ruchikacooks.com/?p=1672">Ruchika Cooks</a><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">Aruna of </span><a style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 0, 0);" href="http://arunatastyrecipies.blogspot.com/2010/02/coraindercilantro-chutney.html">Aruna's Tasty Bites</a><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">Brandi of </span><a style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 0, 0);" href="http://queenofmykingdom.blogspot.com/">Queen Of My Kingdom</a><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">Fimere of </span><a style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 0, 0);" href="http://auxdelicesdesgourmets.blogspot.com/">Aux Delices Des Gourmets</a><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">Itabira of </span><a style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 0, 0);" href="http://magiadaines.blogspot.com/">Magia Da Ines</a><br /><br />THANKING ONE & ALL...... I REQUEST U TO KINDLY ACCEPT THE <span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0);">TOFAS (Tokens Of Appreciation) & spread the cheers</span> around...... this Valentines Day!!!!!!! :-)<br /><br />And as I mentioned in my <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://asha-oceanichope.blogspot.com/2010/02/dill-se-dil-tak.html">prior post</a>, the special Hobby interest that I wanted to pursue seriously, I was kinda successful in doing so...... February 12th, was my Dad & Brother's Birthday...... Yes! Both on the same day..... Very unlikely though...... So I made some gifts for them all by myself...... What I made????? Hmmm.... I made a lovely card, a CD pouch & an Envelope Holder to hold them both.....together......<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/GREETING%20CARDS/Bdaygifts.jpg" alt="Birthdaygifts" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />As one of my favorite pastime is watching & enjoying old movies, I had picked up this movie of the 70's <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.dishant.com/search/mukti%20%281977%29-in-ALBUM.html">MUKTI</a> a hindi film...... Starring Vidya Sinha, Shashi Kapoor & Sanjeev Kumar...... The movie adorned awesome touchy compositions sung by Mukesh like Lalla Lalla Lori, Suhaani Chaandni Raatein & Pyar Hai Ik Nishan Qadmon Ka sung by Mohd Rafi...... Very meaningful, very touchy & full of Love...... Oh! these melodies make me believe that I am alive...when I am totally drowning in my sadness caused due to my HEALTH ...... And I remembered my dad mention it long time back, that he liked & wanted it. So, I thought why not gift him with a copy...... So there it went into the CD pouch.....<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/GREETING%20CARDS/BdayCDpouchDadBro1.jpg" alt="CDpouch" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/GREETING%20CARDS/BdayCDpouchDadBro2.jpg" alt="CDpouch" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />The card was for both of them..... & the CD for dad......<span style="color: rgb(153, 51, 0);">He called me up to say he was totally impressed by my creativity, which were his exact words</span>..... I was happy that it served my purpose of making him feel so..... I did not have anything else for my brother, I found the Maggi Pasta on my table..... I did not know if he had tried it or not.... Thinking he would like it, packed that along for him.... So there went my handmade gifts for the birthday boys...... ;-)<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/GREETING%20CARDS/BdaycarddadBro1.jpg" alt="BCard" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/GREETING%20CARDS/BdaycarddadBro2.jpg" alt="BCard" height="580" width="420" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/GREETING%20CARDS/BdayholderdDadBro1.jpg" alt="Holder" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/GREETING%20CARDS/BdayholderdDadBro2.jpg" alt="Holder" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/GREETING%20CARDS/giftsholder.jpg" alt="Holder" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/GREETING%20CARDS/stringedholder.jpg" alt="Holder" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/GREETING%20CARDS/packed2bdispatched.jpg" alt="Readygift" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(153, 0, 0);">VALENTINES DAY!!!</span><br /><br />Today is February the 14th of 2010........ I know it is special to many, or rather all...... But for me it is a part of my life.... It <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">WAS</span> my past....it <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">IS</span> my present & <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">IS</span> my future too...... This Valentines, we ...... (me & Kuku, of course!!!!) complete <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">16 years of OUR relationship</span>...... The very thought makes me feel proud...... It means a lot for those who believe in relations & its values..... Hence it means a lot to me.....<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);">Asra Ashaon Ka..... Ek Chotisi Love Story!!!</span><br /><br />I still remember the day..... It is still afresh..... I can still smell the freshness of the paint.....<br /><br />I was an adolescent & so was he..... I was 18 & he was 19...... He came down to our area to reside with his flatmates.... When they were shifting themselves in..... a house beside mine..... I wanted to check out as to who & how they were..... I just went out casually drinking water from a bottle.... I saw few guys shifting their things in..... one guy among them looked up at my balcony & signed the other who stood with his back towards my house..... The guy who first saw me was......... nope! not Kuku..... He was Subhdarsi Mishraji..... <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">The guy he signed at was Kuku</span>, who turned immediately to check me out.... I kinda felt nervous all of a sudden, looked elsewhere taking care of my myself & ran in.....<br /><br />Later saw through the window & realized that he had booked the window & the room just beside..... which was direct view to each others place if I opened my ground floor living room windows...... I thought Hmmmmmmmm...... Okay.... Clever!!!!! We exchanged glances, now & then..... but I did not seriously feel anything about it..... U know!!!!!<br /><br />I had 2 Mangalorean kids in that same building where my new neighbor nested, but, on the top floor..... So either me or my mom or sometimes both, made frequent visits to their place..... On the way I had to pass this new neighbor's window or rather their <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">Jharonka</span>...... Again it was just exchange of glances, which meant nothing.....<br /><br />He was the kind who was bossy & every single chap in their house would look up to him for .... be it..... anything..... He was the one who always took a lead..... There was a bike with 2 names painted or stuck, to either sides of the seat.... One SONU & the other KUKU.... I always wondered what this guys name was & to whom the bike belonged..... <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">The YAMAHA RX100,</span> which was hot & popular in the 90's...... I kinda liked the look of it..... small & cute..... I then kept a check to see who rode it more & that was him.... Now I wanted to know whether he was SONU or KUKU.... Once as I was just talking to the Aunt who resided above his place & told her about the unusual but cute names on the bike..... same time, he was there to ride himself out somewhere & that was when I uttered the names..... He did not react with SONU, but did look above when I said KUKU..... & <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">that was a confirmation that he was KUKU</span>....... Hmmmmm......<br />& I liked it.....!!!!<br /><br />He always played beautiful old numbers, which I really enjoyed..... I had a collection too because my dad enjoyed them, at home..... So I flaunted my collection too..... Since we both liked the beautiful romantic songs or even pathos, <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">we did exchange cassettes</span>, through my brother of course ...... but my mom felt irritated because they always played them ALOUD...... she did curse them many a times because of it.... <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">Somehow she learn't his name & would shout often</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">"Ranjit!, zara volume kam karna.... Bachche Padh rahe hein"</span>...... <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">I enjoyed these moments</span>.... Once he asked me to lend him a Lata Mangeshkar hits & I was like.... '<span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">A Very Clever Young Girl</span>' <span style="color: rgb(102, 51, 0);">asked him if that was an excuse for him to talk to me or even befriend me..... to which he said he genuinely wanted it.... I was like "CHOR"</span>.... but that was just a thought that crossed my mind.... & I lent him the cassette...... <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">That was when we spoke to each other for the first time..... which I quite liked.... the way he spoke crossed my mind every now & then.</span>.....<br /><br />And then he would try his best to make use of the moments on road...... Once when I was on my way to my computer class... <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">First Computers at Navrang</span>.... I waited for a bus, when he stopped by, offering a lift..... to which I was like <span style="color: rgb(102, 51, 0);">"NO THANKS! I prefer going by bus"</span> & then fled by getting into the next bus that came along..... After I reached the place, I confessed about this incident to my then friend, VINUTHA...... And she was like <span style="color: rgb(102, 51, 0);">"do not fall into this.... it is a trap..... These Biharis would just play with you & your emotions, catch the next train & off would they</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 51, 0);">vanish from here....leaving you with all the sorrows & miseries later"..</span>... I felt that right too..... My dad was very strict & short tempered..... who would just kill me if he got to know about it..... So I stopped & <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">dropped, even the faintest thought</span> of it...<br /><br />It was next year the 1994....... and I was eagerly waiting to watch the new release <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">'HUM AAPKE HAIN KAUN'</span>..... & I did..... with my family of course..... We always watched movies like a team..... together...... me, mom & my brother..... I loved it a lot.... We never watched with anybody else, but us three..... By night, I went out to lock my gate & balcony as usual..... when I saw a large crowd..... guys out having fun, yapping, shouting out the name RANJIT, when they saw me..... They went on asking the birthday boy to come out, wishing him on his day & asking me to wish him too..... <span style="color: rgb(102, 51, 0);">Why would I wish strangers?????</span><span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);"> I just registered the day in my mind & came in..... Hence I remember the day I watched HUM AAPKE HAIN KAUN, very well..... The 4th of January, 1994</span>.... The day this handsome was born..... may be for me.... I just thought then, but was not sure & did not wanna believe it too.....<br /><br />After few days, one night when I was out to lock my gates, he approached me with a card & I thought, it was not my birthday, then why was he presenting me a card..... I never knew that there were cards meant for proposals too..... I rejected & told him I did not want.... <span style="color: rgb(102, 51, 0);">like he was giving it to me for I wanted.....</span> How Dumb!!!! of me..... My mom saw this through the kitchen window & questioned me as to what he gave..... to which I denied & lied that he asked me if I wanted the cassette back..... My mom without wasting a moment, went barging at his door, asked for him & threatened him to stay away from me & how short tempered my dad was & what position he was in, professionally..... <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">Poor him!!!!!</span><br /><br />Next encounter was when I went inviting few peeps in my lane for my brothers 'Birthday get together'..... As I was doing my rounds, he made his entry somewhere on the road, stopped by asking me if he was invited too...... to which I replied.... again like a clever one <span style="color: rgb(102, 51, 0);">" Sorry! Strangers are not invited...." Ha! Ha! Ha!!!!!! How thoughtful!!!!!</span> <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">Poor him, he just went away 'mayoos'</span>...... again......<br /><br />I always checked him out at nights through the window...... All hush hush!!!! Chori Chori Chupke Chupke!!!!! To just see what masthis they were all up to.... as we, me & my brother never engaged ourselves in any such light, hearty, bindaas, fun filled Masthi moments.... So I enjoyed watching them have fun playing, eating, yelling at the top of their voices & pulling each others legs..... & laughed at their light moments.....<br /><br />Then it was the 14th of February..... Afternoon after college, I was at home & saw another guy named KUNDAN Dubey ji get a rose.... I wondered as to whose birthday was it now..... & went to eves drop at my window.... at the first floor living room..... I could see everything inside from that height as they resided on the ground floor..... I saw Kundan ji, give the rose to Kuku.... I wondered why!!!! & then thought may be somebody's birthday there.... & just went away..... That evening when I went to the kids place to drop them back at 8:00 pm, Kundan ji was on his way down from the terrace.... he stopped to tell me that Ranjit looked forward to see me on the terrace..... I was kinda scared, but with all the courage thought <span style="color: rgb(102, 51, 0);">he would not eat me up for sure.... lemme check what he wanted</span>.... Dropped the kids at their place & instead of making my way home, I climbed up the stairs to the terrace..... And there he was standing alone in the dark<br />& welcoming me with a rose in his hand..... He offered me the rose to which I said it was not my birthday..... & he said he just wanted to give it to me.... to which I said a surprised okay & accepted.... He wanted me to meet up with him the next day at Honey Bee.... Popular Bakers nearby.... We discussed how, when, where, pros & cons..... & I then accepted to see him the following day at the bakery..... later I gave him back the rose & left.... <span style="color: rgb(102, 51, 0);">what would I tell mom about the rose</span>...... I could have told her that i got it from the kids home or something.... but as I was guilty & scared did not want to risk myself....<br /><br />It was the following day that I looked forward to; to see him.... Which i thought he would just drop me to my class, but he instead got me to bunk my class & took me to the Sankey Tank..... where we sat together, he uttering something, trying to know me & me busy with my dairy milks that he got for me..... licking every drop of the melted chocolate..... That was how I was.... Kinda DUH!!!! It was only then I realized that the previous day was called VALENTINES DAY & I was on a DATE with KUKU...... VOILA!!!!!<br /><br />But still it did not mean much to me till a few days later... one night when I watched him down through my window.... I saw him studying & all of a sudden he pulled out a card from his book, looked towards my house & kissed the card deeply..... <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">That was THE MAGICAL MOMENT</span>..... The moment that changed my LIFE....my feelings for him..... Spontaneously without any thought, looking at what I saw, tears rolled down my cheeks...non stop...... I realized that it was the card that he wanted to give me, when I rejected........ I was so touched & believed in him..... his feelings for me & his LOVE...... Even now as I am punching these words, my eyes are filled.... I can feel that moment... Very touchy & exciting!!!!!!! That was when I FELL IN LOVE WITH HIM!!!!!! The one who was meant to be mine..... for this life & others to come......<br /><br />It was meant to happen..... <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">Because we were from two different corners of this country, He from Bihar & me from Mangalore..</span>... If we were not destined... we would not have met..... Neither his parents would have sent him to Bangalore for further studies, nor would he have come to nest, beside my place, as his college was far far away...... He came here because he wanted to be away from the college crowd to concentrate on his studies.... & meanwhile found me to concentrate on...... ;-)<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204); font-weight: bold;">That is the end of this episode, to be continued further later.....<br />as it is rather very LENGTHY... It takes time to, have to punch in, all those 8 years of factual story.....</span> before wedding...... ;-)<br /><br />MY FIRST VALENTINES DAY, MY FIRST PROPOSAL & MY FIRST DATE!!!!!!! I would not call it perfect because I was not in my senses..... meaning I was not aware of all the happenings & the magic of those moments, as I am now, to have enjoyed it the way I would now..... but still I love & treasure it because I was a total DUH! or an adolescent who was not aware of all these moments & what they meant........<br /><br />So that was my first DATE, who I have been DATING till this day....... & forever would..... <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">I feel so happy about my 16th anniversary of togetherness</span>... I love, respect & enjoy his unconditional love for me...... Nobody loves me the way he does.... He makes me feel special always..... No tags attached.... I know we would be together FOREVER.... as even death would not be able to do us apart.... as we would still find each other besides...... <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">That is the TRUTH of 'OUR' LIFE!!!!!!</span><br /><br />I only made a card for him as I could not go out & get him something..... I loved what I made.... I gave it to him exactly at 12:00 am......<span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Wishing him on our 16th Anniversary of togetherness....</span> </span>He totally loved it..... He just kept looking at it & was so happy..... & said... <span style="color: rgb(102, 51, 0);">"Meri baabu mein to talent khoot khoot ke bhara hua hain"</span>....... Hmmmm.... as always..... & I felt proud & happy again..... So here is the card......<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/GREETING%20CARDS/16thValentineAnni.jpg" alt="16th Annicard" height="580" width="420" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/GREETING%20CARDS/ValentineAnni6.jpg" alt="16th Annicard" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/GREETING%20CARDS/ValentineAnni7.jpg" alt="16th Annicard" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/GREETING%20CARDS/ValentineAnni4.jpg" alt="16th Annicard" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/GREETING%20CARDS/ValentineAnni1.jpg" alt="16th Annicard" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/GREETING%20CARDS/ValentineAnni5.jpg" alt="16th Annicard" height="420" width="580" /></p><br />Hmmmm..... That was celebrations of the Valentines Day from my side...... Why don't u share the same with me too????? Come on I would love to hear..... But true stories, with its sanctity..... Not some pastime...... I value the worth of everything on this earth...... So let us paint the BLOGGYWOOD red, & allow it to drip love, in every word & statement...... in the BLOGOSPHERE.............<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">WISHING YOU ALL A VERY HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!!!!!!</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br />UNTIL NEXT, KEEP THE FAITH!!!!!!</span><br /><br /><br /><b><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/224/FB86AADF240FA45239B7963BAE4F9753.png" style="border: 0pt none ! important; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial;" /></a></b>Ashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12039911212235165959noreply@blogger.com47tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1541814323693333064.post-39906630021523909572010-02-06T12:52:00.007+05:302010-02-12T13:23:22.136+05:30DILL SE DIL TAK!!!!!!Many things '<span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">happening</span>' in <span style="font-weight: bold;">BLOGGYWOOD</span>...... All are happy (<span style="font-style: italic;">at least many I know & I wish the same for others too</span>) ...... on their <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">milestones</span> achieved....<br /><p>Like <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://simplysensationalfood.blogspot.com/2010/02/sweet-and-sour-sesame-vegetables.html">Simply Food</a> is all happy on their reach out to the masses..... & few others like Renuka from <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://cookingyummy.blogspot.com/2010/02/medu-wada-with-award-reward.html">Love of Cooking</a> & Sushma of <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://nsushma.blogspot.com/2010/02/mosaru-avalakki-beaten-rice-in-yogurt.html">Savi-Ruchi</a> ....... are happy with their additions to their pricey possessions.... the bloggieroll contests they won.... the nice <span style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);">tote bag that Sushma won</span> & the <span style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);">party cooking book of THE Sanjeev Kapoor, that Renuka won</span>..... Same Pinch Renuka!!!! ;-)<br /></p>I am so happy for all their achievements & additions to their happiness...... <span style="font-weight: bold;">KUDOS TO YOU ALL</span> & I wish u & all, many more such happiness & celebrations.... <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">GOD BLESS!!!!</span><br /><br />As for me, I did nothing more than just..... Oh! forget it..... better not start..... Yes!!!! I did something nice too.... On January 30, late evening, I watched the news flash on TV, which said the moon happened to be at closest distance from earth & thus appeared bigger & brighter.... at<br />its fullest.... I wanted to check it out too.... I went out to look.... YUP! I saw it more soothing than what most others did.... They saw it RED!!!! People did even mention that they could see the craters with their naked eyes.... But I just saw this...calm & quiet!!!!! It looked bigger & cuter...... I loved it & wanted to capture that moment..... & so I did.... After I clicked that pic, I kept laughing for half an hour.... Kuku wondered why!!!! & if I had lost some of my screws out near the gate..... while I gaped at the moon!!!!! When asked, I told him, that people would mistake it to be my roti.... with a reflection of light on it.... And I don't know why the thought tickled me for half an hour & I sat there laughing like crazy.....!!!!! May be those were the adverse effects of the moon, on me......!!!!! LOL ;-)<br /><br />This is what I saw..... Isn't it cute??????<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/lovemoon-jan30-2010.jpg" alt="Love Moon" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />Now before I could write this post, I stumbled over an article or something, <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://shine.yahoo.com/channel/sex/full-moon-jan-30-2010-577352/">here</a>, which said this......<br />{<span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">The full moon on January 30th will fall in the sign of Leo. The next couple weeks will bring a time for you to focus on leadership, amibtion, appearance, children, hard work, determination, sports, music and <span style="font-weight: bold;">special hobbies</span>.</span>}<br /><br />So I guess this was happening..... I don't know about the rest of the things that was mentioned, but this, YES!!! I was totally into <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204); font-weight: bold;">card making</span>..... I wanted to make better ones than I did earlier..... Ones, that looked kinda professional..... at least somewhere near it..... I will post them in my future ....... SO may be the moon had its affects on me to let me seriously think of card making.....<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">Card making</span> was kinda haunting me & I was madly in need of equipments to give my skills a shine.... I was totally impressed by Stampin up! But in vain.... Due to the laws & restrictions, they were not into business here in India...... I was sad again..... but still did not stop hunting for my supplies..... I finally heard of finding my stuffs at Staples..... I keep my fingers crossed & wish I would!!!!! I have not been there as yet.... I would & once I do, I would post about it too......<br /><br />So now regarding my prep for today's posting.....<br /><br />I love saag or soppu or just leaves, edible ones, of course ;-) ...... And among them my first & best favorites are the <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204); font-weight: bold;">DILL LEAVES</span>..... Sabsige Soppu in Kannada & simply hara saag or in particular Sowa or Soya in Hindi.....<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/DilLeaves1.jpg" alt="DILLEAVES" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />You can certainly learn more about DILL LEAVES here, below.......<br /><br />1) Dill as in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dill">WIKI</a><br />2) Dill & its <a href="http://www.indianspices.com/html/s0626dil.htm">Names</a><br />3) Dill & its <a href="http://www.indianetzone.com/1/dill.htm">Values</a><br />4) Dill & a <a href="http://www.herbs2000.com/herbs/herbs_dill.htm">Side Effect</a><br /><br />There are so many things different to these leaves..... which keeps it above the rest of the edible leaves..... The aroma is certainly one of them... <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">Very DIVINE!!!!!</span> I get carried away easily by that aroma..... I do not mind associating it with KUKU...... Because that is the kind of impact it has on me..... I simply love it!!!!!! <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">DIL SE!!!!</span> The look, the feel, the taste & the aroma................. <span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204); font-weight: bold;">DILL SE...... DIL TAK (</span><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204); font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">डिल से...... दिल तक</span><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204); font-weight: bold;">)!!!!!!</span><br /><br />So here goes the recipe for it.... Very simple, easy & user friendly........<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/DilLeaves2.jpg" alt="DILLEAVES" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />Ingredients:<br /><br />Dil Leaves (<span style="font-style: italic;">ಸಬ್ಸಿಗೆ</span><span style="font-style: italic;"> </span><span style="font-style: italic;">ಸೊಪ್ಪು</span><span style="font-style: italic;">, </span><span style="font-style: italic;">सोवा</span><span style="font-style: italic;"> </span><span style="font-style: italic;">साग</span>) - 1/4 kg<br />Onion - 1 big (<span style="font-style: italic;">finely sliced</span>)<br />Mustard Oil - 2 tbsp<br />Dry Red Chilli - 3, broken<br />Turmeric Powder - 1/4 tsp<br />Red Chilli Powder - Less than a quarter<br />Salt to Taste<br /><br />Clean & wash the leaves, thoroughly to get rid of dirt & grime..... Now chop them finely & keep aside.... Heat a wok or kadai, with oil. Once the oil is hot, add the dry broken chilli & sliced onions.... Fry till translucent..... Then add the chopped leaves & stir fry.... Add salt, turmeric & red chilli powder & stir to mix well..... Now cook it covered for minimum 3 minutes...... Then uncover & stir fry the contents for 2 to 3 minutes or till all the water evaporates & the leaves are well cooked......<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/DilLeaves3.jpg" alt="DILLEAVES" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />Now serve this with piping hot dal & white rice..... Or simply serve it combined with rice...... AWESOME COMBO....... Just the rice & the dil leaves prep, tastes like heaven.....<br />(<span style="font-style: italic;">JANNAT!!!!!</span>) ...... <span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">The taste is such that, it reaches your soul through your mouth</span>..... as said in hindi, "<span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204); font-weight: bold;">woh zaika jo zubaan se utharkar seede aathma tak pahunche.....</span>" (<span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204); font-weight: bold;">वह ज़ायका जो जुबां से उतरकर सीदे आत्मा तक पहुंचे</span>)<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/DilLeaves4.jpg" alt="DILLEAVES" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/DilLeaves5.jpg" alt="DILLEAVES" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />And this Ash...... made combo , makes its way to the COMBO EVENT, hosted for the first time by Pari of <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://cooking-goodfood.blogspot.com/2010/02/my-100th-post-jackfruit-biryani-raita.html">FOODELICIOUS</a>...... Congrats & Wish u all the success Pari...... which I'm sure of...... :-)<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/CONTESTS%20_%20%20LOGOS/comboevent.gif" alt="COMBO EVENT" height="200" width="200" /></p><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">WISHING ONE & ALL, HAPPY MOMENTS!!!!!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">UNTIL NEXT, KEEP THE FAITH!!!!!</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><b><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/224/FB86AADF240FA45239B7963BAE4F9753.png" style="border: 0pt none ! important; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial;" /></a></b>Ashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12039911212235165959noreply@blogger.com42tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1541814323693333064.post-529953402887293562010-01-31T00:52:00.007+05:302010-02-01T03:35:40.487+05:30MAKE ROOM FOR MUSHROOMS!!!!!<p>On this occasion of our Nation celebrating its 61 st Republic Day, Let's celebrate the Heritage & sovereignty of our <span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">NA</span><span style="color: rgb(51, 102, 255);">TI</span><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);">ON</span></span>..... let us think of those... who protect us from all odds & pay homage to them for their selfless service......</p>I sincerely wish, one & all Indians, give those <span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">'UNSUNG HEROES'</span> their due ..... for the selfless love & dedication towards the country & its people...... Let us all question ourselves, after all the sacrifice & service to the nation, what is it that they get in return..... nothing but those minutes of silence, which is a beginning of a life long silence for their families.....Families who sacrificed the member of their family, for <span style="font-weight: bold;">'us'</span>, gets only trauma, in the name of their sacrifice..... They would be remembered 'once', when the government honors them with recognitions posthumously........ After which again a total silence for years till the death of all their family members...... The mothers, the fathers, wives, sisters & children who sacrificed their beloveds for the country gets no benefits or privileges...... but a life of darkness & sorrow.......<br /><br />Unlike, those lucky enough, to get the best in life, they never expected, after winning gold in the Olympics, which is just a game....... by just wasting few bullets ...... What a Life they all lead after the GAME????? A CELEBRITY LIFESTYLE....... Shame on all of us.... who air these discrimination's...... The rich gets richer & the poor gets poorer....... I am sincerely ashamed to be a part of this world..... who do not recognize people for what they deserve..... I hate myself for not being able to DO something about it..... than just write......<br /><br />I was shocked to see the new version of the OLD, melodious & mesmerizing <span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">"Mile Sur Mera Tumara"</span>....... Looks like it is only the BOLLYWOOD tunes (<span style="font-style: italic;">sur</span>) that are synchronizing now...... The very composition lost all its charm, the feel of integrity.... Now it is totally an essence less glamorized song..... FUNNY & FOOLISH...............<br /><br />I don't think anything is possible in this country minus bollywood & its so called celebrities..... The foolish public goes <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204); font-weight: bold;">ga ga</span> over them, by wasting their hard earned money, to give THEM the CELEBRITY status............ Initially when it all began, I don't think there were any 'celebrities' as such..... All those who were there, were Actors who excelled in their ART FORM, & who were dedicated towards this art.... But now <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">ACTORS are a HANDFUL</span>, rest are all HEROES & HEROINES, who portray those emotions on screen, which are meant to be inside the four walls & become the so called 'Hero' & 'Heart Throb'...... Why is ones husband or wive not a heart throb anymore????.... No wonder when this generation is questioned about any Hero, all they can answer is about some of these mentioned above... SO where do these UNSUNG HEROES stand????? .... Bloody Fish!!!!<br /><br />Oops! I have a head ache, with all my BP rising high........ I'm just pissed to an extent that I would have a breakdown.... I better continue later...... :-(<br /><br />Okay! Hello again..... I came across this tag <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://luvgoodfood.blogspot.com/2010/01/by-book.html">'By the Book' of Jayashree</a> & kinda liked it for its importance in all our lives.... Not just OLD or New..... Not just Old or Young..... It has seen a place in everybody's life...as far as I know & understand.... GUIDANCE of a Book, is taken by all..... <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">Like a beacon is to navigators, so is our preserved & trusted</span> <span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">Cookbook</span>, <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">to us, in our journey towards kitchen & its skills.......</span> May be a printed book by a renowned chef or very often, hand written notes, passed on to us from the most experienced cooks in our life's... <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">Maa or Mother in-law</span>...... Or even a friend.... because I did...... I gave a handwritten book to my friend Sandhya, during her wedding, consisting of the preps that I prepared as a newly married & few guided by my Mother in-law....<br /><br />And these books become a part of our life, unknowingly..... <span style="font-weight: bold;">A PRICEY POSSESSION!!!!</span> Losing it, would feel like we lost a member in our family or our close ones..... It becomes very close to heart & would wanna preserve it for our future generations too..... At least I would love to, but.......... Anyways.... Nothing to worry, if not my own, I would surely hand it over to some girl in my family who would deserve it.... as there are many in my family.....<br /><br />So here I am posting about <span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">MY PRICEY POSSESSIONS</span>, My Daari Deevige (<span style="font-style: italic;">ದಾರಿ</span><span style="font-style: italic;"> </span><span style="font-style: italic;">ದೀಪ</span>), My Beacon.........<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/GUIDE3.jpg" alt="Beacon" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />Since childhood, I was always inclined towards collecting recipes for my future.... U know!!! AMS - 'After Marriage' Syndrome...... I never learn' t any cooking nor was keen on preparing something.... but was very much interested in collecting, recipes I came across..... Sources<br />being newspapers, TV shows & mostly magazines (<span style="font-style: italic;">Femina & Woman's Era</span>)..... I pulled out recipes from all the magazines, that I could lay my hands on....... And I had a bundle of them...... After wedding, Kuku initiated to get it book bound for me, than preserving it in files & folders...... Hence I got it book bound..... So that is NOW, my own COOK BOOK....... <span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">Dhan Tana!!!!!</span><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/GUIDE1.jpg" alt="Beacon" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/GUIDE2.jpg" alt="Beacon" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />The other is the diary that I started just before my wedding.... Since I would leave my mom, I got most of her, lovely, sumptuous recipes, noted down for me..... in there.... After wedding, when it was time for me to leave my maa in-law, I got her interesting, rich & delightful recipes jotted down for me, in it...... So those are my two favorite, most expensive cook books, and rather, a very trusted source for <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">MY NEW LIFE</span>....... My New Beginning!!!!! For my new <span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">GRIHASTI</span>!!!!!! I would lose myself if I have to lose them any day...... I LOVE & THANK MY GURUS!!!!!<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/GUIDE4.jpg" alt="Beacon" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/GUIDE5.jpg" alt="Beacon" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />But yes now I have another cook book, <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">My Jeeta Jaagtha Cookbook..... My Kuku</span>..... He had to be a chef, than get into Garment Business, I seriously feel.... He cooks really yum!!!!! He loves & enjoys it too...... So I would never dare to lose him too..... for my cookery references & other things, but of course ;-) LOVE & THANK HIM TOO!!!!!!<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204); font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">***I would love to get everyone tagged with this, as this is a very simple & a common tag, but of immense value & IMPORTANCE............ So I request everyone to write about it & let us know about it & flaunt it too, to kinda immortalize it..... So we can all be a part of each others treasured BEACONS!!!!!!***</span><br /><br />Now after all this discussion about our trusted sources for our cooking skills, I would like to post something from it, but with a change of course.... Because, what I learn' t was a regular pulao, which I now prepare using the ingredients or rather the main Ingredient I like or have........ So it is the same method, but with any main ingredient of your choice..... Anything & everything is Awesome!!!!!!<br /><br />Okay!!!!! Make Room For Mushrooms............. Because that is my main ingredient today........ which can be substituted with any other veggie of your choice......<br /><br />Here's presenting to you <span style="font-weight: bold;">THE MUSHROOM RICE...............</span><br /><br />I love mushrooms & I am always in a hunt for different recipes, on internet... And when one posts one such prep..... I save it for future reference..... I have many such, yet to be tried recipes.... But surely will some day.....<br /><br />Ingredients:<br /><br />Mushroom - 1/4 kg ( <span style="font-style: italic;">cleaned</span>)<br />Onion - 2 medium, (<span style="font-style: italic;">finely sliced</span>)<br />Green Chilli - 4, (<span style="font-style: italic;">slit lengthwise</span>)<br />Cardamom - 6 pieces<br />Cloves - 5 pieces<br />Oil - 3 tbsp<br />Ghee - 1 tbsp<br />Milk - 1/2 cup<br />Long Grain Rice (<span style="font-style: italic;">Basmati</span>) - 4 cups<br />Water - 5 cups<br />Cashew - 10 pieces<br />Raisins - 10 pieces<br />Cinnamon - 1" piece<br />Turmeric Powder - 1/2 tsp<br />Salt to Taste<br />Kitchen King Masala - 1/2 tsp<br />Coriander Powder - 1/2 tsp<br />Cumin Powder - 1/2 tsp<br />Capsicum - 1 medium, (<span style="font-style: italic;">sliced for garnish</span>)<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/MushroomedRice.jpg" alt="Make room 4 mushroom" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />Method:<br /><br />Chop the cleaned mushrooms, to desirable chunks & keep aside.... Wash the rice & keep aside too.<br /><br />Heat oil + ghee in a cooker. Add the cardamom, cloves & cinnamon & saute` for a minute or two. Then add the green chilli & onions & fry till translucent...... Once done u may add the cashew & raisins too & saute for 2 minutes..... or till the raisins shape up...... Now add in the chunked mushrooms & saute further for a minute or two..... Then add the masala powders & stir fry further for 3-4 minutes.... Now add the rice in & saute for 5 minutes further..... When the rice grains turn translucent or kinda shiny, add in milk & ghee & mix it to combine well..... But with caution, not to breal the rice grains.... Tighten up the lid of the pressure cooker & allow it to blow 4-5 whistles..... Once done, turn off the heat & keep aside.... Once the pressure releases completely, uncover & transfer the contents to a wide mouthed vessel, which would allow you to mix the contents, without hassles...... Transfer it to a serving bowl & garnish with sliced capsicums.......<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/Room4mushroom2.jpg" alt="Make room 4 mushroom" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />This prep does not need any any accompaniment as such, but can be accompanied with a plain simple raitha or any gravy of your choice.... I liked a dry to accompany & as I had few mushrooms, left over, thought of preparing them dry..... Hence presenting a simple & instant...........<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/Stirfriedmushroom2.jpg" alt="Make room 4 mushroom" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">STIR-FRIED MUSHROOMS</span><br /><br />Ingredients:<br /><br />Mushrooms - 200gm (<span style="font-style: italic;">cleaned</span>)<br />Green Chilli - 2 to 3 (<span style="font-style: italic;">cut diagonall</span>y)<br />Onions - 2 medium (<span style="font-style: italic;">sliced in rings</span>)<br />Capsicum - 1 medium (<span style="font-style: italic;">sliced</span>)<br />Garlic - 2 to 3 flakes (<span style="font-style: italic;">minced or chopped</span>)<br />Oil - 2 tbsp<br />Lime Juice - 2 tbsp<br />Salt & Pepper to Taste<br />Coriander Leaves - 3 twigs (<span style="font-style: italic;">for garnish</span>)<br /><br />Method:<br /><br />Heat oil in a frying pan & fry garlic, green chilli, onions & capsicum for a minute. Add mushrooms & stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes.<br />Add lime juice, salt & pepper. Stir well & cook until done. Then, transfer to a serving bowl. Garnish with coriander leaves & onion rings & serve hot.<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/Stirfriedmushroom1.jpg" alt="Make room 4 mushroom" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/Room4mushroom1.jpg" alt="Make room 4 mushroom" height="420" width="580" /></p><br />It is said that Mushrooms are Nature's hidden treasures..... They contain certain minerals, that improve our immune system..... So I guess, they are not only pleasing on our palates, but are healthy too..... So MAKE ROOM for MUSHROOMS!!!!! in your diet & Enjoy these delights..... Delightfully!!!!!!!!!!!!!!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Screening MY BLOGFARES:</span><br /><br />Oh! there is a kinda backlog..... on my unpublished list of TOFAS....... Since I''m posting after a lengthy gap, I could not flaunt or write about them, before this..... But is surely not late for me to go ahead with it.....<br /><br />I thank Sailaja of <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.sailajakitchen.com/2010/01/award_21.html">Sailaja Kitchen</a> for passing on her <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">Happy 101</span>, & also would thank Swarna from <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://kovaihotkitchen.blogspot.com/2010/01/mushroom-and-chick-peas-curry-and-award.html">Kovaihot Kitchen</a>, Indu of <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://kattameethatheeka.blogspot.com/2010/01/award_20.html">Kitchen Queen</a> , Vineetha of <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://malabar-ruchi.blogspot.com/">Ruchi</a> & Queen B of <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://queenofmykingdom.blogspot.com/2010/01/ohhappy-day.html">Queen Of My Kingdom</a>, for sharing this cute & happy TOFA with me..... It means a lot to receive it from all these talented & yummy prep makers.... who not only prepare, but create new creations too...... which are so soothing to eyes & our grocery lists .... as they are all many a times very affordable & available at the nearest place.... So Thanks once again...... And Queen B had tagged me with <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204); font-weight: bold;">10 Things that make me HAPPY......</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">They would be........ as follows.......</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);">1) Kuku!!!!!!!!!!! All the Way......</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);">2) My Freedom ..... from my distress of course!!!!!</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);">3) Shopping!!!!!!!</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);">4) Outings & Food........</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);">5) Romantic & meaningful Movies</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);">6) Romantic & Emotional Songs..... Especially old melodies that kindles your emotions.... happy, sad or romantic......... ALL THE WAY!!!!!!</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);">7) My Creative Arts...... When I indulge in them for my FAMILY!!!!!</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);">8) Good, kind, genuine words</span> <span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);">& gestures</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);">9) A SMILE!!!!</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);">10) Healthy Flirting, with peeps I know.......... ;-)</span><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/happy-101.jpg" alt="Happy101" height="200" width="200" /></p><br />Thank You <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://cookingyummy.blogspot.com/2010/01/award-time.html">Renuka</a>, <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://malabar-ruchi.blogspot.com/">Vineetha</a> & <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://spicebuds.blogspot.com/">Spice</a> for remembering me & sharing the <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">Beautiful Blogger </span>Award...... This is indeed one of my treasures too...... These moments are treasured forever.....<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/Beautifulbloggeraward.jpg" alt="Beautiful Blogger" height="200" width="200" /></p><br />I am grateful to <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://malabar-ruchi.blogspot.com/">Vineetha</a> & <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://spicebuds.blogspot.com/">Spice</a> for tagging me with 7 truths about myself, which are mentioned <a style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(153, 51, 153); font-weight: bold;" href="http://asha-oceanichope.blogspot.com/2010/01/aasaan-e-parata-me-with-all-happenings.html">here</a>..... with the Kreativ Blogger Award...... <span style="font-weight: bold;">Dhanyavad!!!!!</span><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/kreativblogger.jpg" alt="Kreativ Blogger" height="200" width="200" /></p><br />I would also thank <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://malabar-ruchi.blogspot.com/">Vineetha</a> & for she thought of me & my space, when she shared <span style="color: rgb(204, 102, 204);">A Fabulous Blog</span> TOFA & it really inspires me to make this space interesting & inviting.......<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/fabolousaward.jpg" alt="A Fabulous Blogger" height="200" width="200" /></p><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Heartfelt thanks to ONE & ALL!!!!!!!!!!!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">ENJOY EVERY SECOND OF YOUR LIFE TO THE FULLEST!!!!!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">UNTIL WE MEET NEXT, KEEP THE FAITH!!!!!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">JAI HIND!!!!!!!!!</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><b><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/224/FB86AADF240FA45239B7963BAE4F9753.png" style="border: 0pt none ! important; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial;" /></a></b>Ashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12039911212235165959noreply@blogger.com39tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1541814323693333064.post-5147737815733041962010-01-17T23:26:00.009+05:302010-01-18T02:26:36.468+05:30AASAAN-E-PARATA & ME!!!!! With all the HAPPENINGS & MOMENTS....In & Of MY LIFE!!!!!<p>I received the '<a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.foodieblogroll.com/contests/comment-to-win-a-copy-of-sanjeev-kapoor-s-party-cooking-book-winner-for-january-8-2010">Sanjeev Kapoor's Party Cooking</a>' I won, yesterday..... I was so happy.... to have received it.... Wanted to try out something from it.... But I will & post them, for all.... The courier guy who delivered it was funny.... He dropped by, early morning say about 8:30 am.... Usually not the time for couriers.... so we were kinda surprised..... He talked with a funny tone.... And as soon as my hubby was out to collect it..... he asked Kuku "<span style="font-weight: bold;">Sir, naayi unta???</span>" (<span style="font-style: italic;">Is a dog there???</span>) ... My hubby was like "<span style="font-weight: bold;">hmm???</span>" He repeated himself asking the same.... & Kuku '<span style="font-weight: bold;">pounced</span>' on him, literally, with his not so perfect Kannada "<span style="font-weight: bold;">Yaake???</span> " (<span style="font-style: italic;">Why???</span>) That lean, almost vulnerable guy, freaked out by this, answered "<span style="font-weight: bold;">summane kelide sir..</span>" (<span style="font-style: italic;">I just asked!</span>)</p><p><br /></p><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/partywin.jpg" alt="partywin" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/partycook.jpg" alt="partywin" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />This encounter with him (the courier guy) was funny, firstly because of his voice & tone & secondly because he was totally unexpected both in person & his unusual questions.......<br />SO I WOULD REMEMBER THIS BOOK FOR ALL THE UNEXPECTED FEEL & LAUGHS involved..... <span style="font-weight: bold;">Thank You again, FOODIE BLOGROLL!!!!!!!!!</span> for letting my shelf adorn another pricey possession....... :-p<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/Shelved.jpg" alt="partywin" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />And yes! regarding the prep I'm posting, this is one easy, yummy, healthy, enjoyable & 'at any circumstances' food, which takes no much time & effort...... CONVENIENT!!!!! I say this because, this is one prep that Kuku had been enjoying during his school days.... (<span style="font-style: italic;">without me of course!!!!!...MEANIE :-0</span>) Maa in-law prepared this instantly for his tiffin or break fast, with LOVE & CARE .... This Parata, is delightful with or without any accompaniment...<br /><br />Since Kuku & his siblings were totally 5, who went to school together, sometimes when in hurry, maa in-law packed bread omlette or bread & jam, for tiffin.... But with the kind of food the kids were used to, it got their hunger pangs to strike them hard, very soon after lunch.... And they would be lured by these road side stalls, with their not so healthy, unhygienic foodies....... Hence maa in-law thought of this prep as an instant one to be packed for tiffins, during those busy mornings that she had to be ready for...... And was healthy & yummy enough to keep the kids at bay from those luring road side foodies...... 2-3 paratas with a little pickle..... was a day minus the tension, for both the kids & the mother.....<br />Oh!!!! I wish I was with Kuku & his toli to share a bite too..... to feed a bite & to be fed too.... Hmmmmmm.......... Those days I miss being with KUKU...... :-(<br /><br />As he told me about this, I thought so what if I wasn't around him those days.... Now that I am... I wanna make use of this time.... to satiate myself..... with all those quickies that I can LOVE & LIVE..... with him.... Hence thought of preparing this for him, with lots of LOVE, with his guidance of course...... :-)<br /><br />So here I am posting about that "<span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">FAST FOOD</span>" in its true sense..... <span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">A healthy one though..... for all the mothers & the hungry kids.....</span><br /><br />Presenting to you is "<span style="font-weight: bold;">The Aasaan-e-Parata</span>" ........Dhan Tana!!!!!!!<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/roti4.jpg" alt="Parata" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />Ingredients:<br /><br />Wheat Flour (<span style="font-style: italic;">ಗೋಧಿ</span><span style="font-style: italic;"> </span><span style="font-style: italic;">ಹಿಟ್ಟು</span><span style="font-style: italic;">, </span><span style="font-style: italic;">आट्टा</span>) - 250 gm<br />Oil - 2 tsp<br />Onion - 1 medium, (<span style="font-style: italic;">finely chopped</span>)<br />Green Chilli - 3 (<span style="font-style: italic;">finely chopped</span>)<br />Ajwain + Mangrela (<span style="font-style: italic;">Carom Seeds or Oma + Black Sesame Seeds</span>) - 1 tsp ( <span style="font-style: italic;">I keep a mix of both</span>)<br />Salt to Taste<br />Water as required<br /><br />Method:<br /><br />Mix all the above ingredients well & add enough water to knead into a smooth & soft dough. Keep it aside for 30 minutes, covered...<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/roti.jpg" alt="Parata" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />Then make lemon sized balls & with the help of a rolling pin, roll it into flat rounds.<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/roti1.jpg" alt="Parata" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />Heat a non stick tawa or a flat iron skillet, & transfer the rolled bread onto it to let it cook. Once a side is done, turn it over to cook the other side... meanwhile spread a little oil or butter on the cooked side & then turn it over again to see it evenly cooked on both the sides... Repeat with the number u wanna have for breakfast, lunch or dinner....<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/roti2.jpg" alt="Parata" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />Serve it hot with any accompaniments... u like.... pickle (<span style="font-style: italic;">अचार</span>), sauce, chutney or gravy....... <span style="font-weight: bold;">RELISH WITH PLEASING SOUNDS........ Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmm............... & Taste to comment ....;-)</span><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/roti3.jpg" alt="Parata" height="420" width="580" /></p><br />And this prep finds its way to FF7SL's event <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://sourashtrakitchen.blogspot.com/2010/01/event-announcement-food-for-7-stages-of.html">HEALTHY FAST FOOD</a> hosted by RV & <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://bengalicuisine.net/">Cook like a Bong</a> by Sudeshna<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/CONTESTS%20_%20%20LOGOS/Logo_FFhealthyfastfood.jpg" alt="FAST FOOD" height="200" width="300" /></p><br /><br />and also makes its way to Gourmet Affair's maiden event <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://gourmetaffair.blogspot.com/2009/12/announcing-my-first-event-served-with.html">SERVED WITH LOVE</a> hosted by Arundhuti..... I send this prep with love & wishes to you, Aru.............<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/CONTESTS%20_%20%20LOGOS/SWLEventLogo2.jpg" alt="SERVED WITH LOVE" height="200" width="300" /></p><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />BLOGFARES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! MY TOFA's (Token Of Appreciation)<br /><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">I was conferred with love & appreciations, by the blog fraternity.... So I would love to take this moment to thank them for their kindness & encouragement......</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span><br />I would like to thank <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://curryandbeyond.blogspot.com/2010/01/chocolate-chip-brownies-whole-wheat.html">Dolly</a> for she remembered & thought me deserving..... This Beautiful, Blogger Award....<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/Beautifulbloggeraward.jpg" alt="Beautiful Blogger" height="200" width="200" /></p><br /><br />And <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://cookingyummy.blogspot.com/">Renuka</a> for sharing this Kreativ Blogger Award......<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/kreativblogger.jpg" alt="Kreativ Blogger" height="200" width="185" /></p><br />To my gladness, I was tagged too by my friendly bloggers....... for the first time, of course!!!! And I was happy to exercise this practice ..... And would like to express my gratitude to <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://faizaali.blogspot.com/2010/01/pazham-pori-ripe-plantain-fritters.html#comment-form">Faiza Ali</a>, <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://malabar-ruchi.blogspot.com/">Vineetha</a> & <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://pangravykadaicurry.blogspot.com/2010/01/award-with-demand.html">The Cool Lass</a>, for tagging me with the KREATIV BLOGGER AWARD!!!!!!<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/kreativblogger.jpg" alt="Kreativ Blogger" height="200" width="185" /></p><br /><br /><span>So it goes as follows.......</span><br /><br /><ol><li style="font-weight: bold;">Thank the person who tagged u with this TOFA</li><li style="font-weight: bold;">Flaunt the TOFA, on your blog</li><li style="font-weight: bold;">Do Not Forget To Link Them with gratitude<br /></li><li style="font-weight: bold;">Share 7 truths about you, for peeps to know <span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">YOU</span></li><li style="font-weight: bold;">Pay it Forward to 7 other Bloggers</li><li style="font-weight: bold;">Link them too, for convenience</li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Let Them Know Of This TOFA, through comment</span><br /></li></ol><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span>And here I exercise my tag, as below......<span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br /><br />SEVEN TRUTHS ABOUT ME:</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">PERFECTIONIST</span> - No man is perfect, but one can always try to be ... I'm in my work... I prefer things to be so..... I don't do things just for the heck of it..... I'm a perfectionist in everything I do..... Sometimes irritating others, but I do what I believe is right....<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">HATE</span> - I hate double faced diplomacy.... When u know u r right , why should one hide under the sheets of diplomacy???? Why should one be a Hypocrite???? Show the real u... be it good or bad.... Take it or leave it..... Let the world decide..... But don't cream the bitter gourds.... World still loves bitter gourd, for its bitterness.... At least the other person knows what to expect from you...<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">EMOTIONAL</span> - I'm basically very emotional.... I cry as much as I laugh..... I am very empathetic. I can feel the pain the opposite is undergoing.... be it physical or mental.... I am emotional about my family.... Very much about Kuku... I always reminisce my past, I feel for my present & expect my future to be emotional too as far as my Kuku is concerned.... I am proud of MY ACHIEVEMENT.....<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">KARMA</span> - I strongly believe in KARMA. Good deeds always comes back to you with good..... But situations do surprise me, when they differ, from my belief..... But still believe my belief.....<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">SHOPAHOLIC</span> - I have a very gr8 fascination for all good things.... be it unique things of decor or just mere possessions.... I find pride in those.... I fascinate all good clothes, shoes & hand bags..with perfection of course.... I love to adorn my collections with all that is tagged good & unique.... be it books, mugs, jewelery, clothes, handbags, shoes, artifacts, glam decor, ideas, almost everything existing..... from small to big.... Kuku says, he takes me to a hardware store, I would still find something there to suite myself & buy, of course..... LOL!!!!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">TALENT</span> - Very much into arts & crafts (<span style="font-style: italic;">U know</span>)..... And arts..... I sing well & did dance well too... of course during college days.... I was always into extra curricular activities.... I love to perform...but again with perfection..... Kuku always says..... "<span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">Baabu mein to talent koot kootke bhara hua hain</span>"..... which makes me feel so happy that I fly.... ;-)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">LOVE</span> - There are many other things I love too ..... I have a fascination for languages; I loved English a lot, right from childhood, was always interested in Hindi (<span style="font-style: italic;">which is now my husband tongue</span>) & knew Kannada too, as it is my mother tongue....<br />Hmmm.... I love to flirt too.... I do not miss a chance to lock my eyes, with guys who seem interesting..... I simply love that.... & I love sharing those experiences with KUKU..... Life's not complete without some fun in it.... Just like <span style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);">our food</span> is not complete, without pickle in it.....!!!!! <span style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);">GOTCHA????</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">Should have been seven, but I could not strike this off my list, however hard I tried......</span> as I talk about my health very often & I should let peeps know that I'm not suffering from CANCER, but something that has eaten me enough...... I am......<br /><br />'<span style="font-weight: bold;">MENSTRUALLY CHALLENGED</span>' - The last but not the least is that I am 'M' lly Challenged.... DO NOT READ IT WRONG!!!! Not mentally but may be I would end up being so....Yes! U heard & got it right... I coined that word myself & my doctor appreciated me for doing it.... & few other 'learned' people too....<br /><br />So I'm PROUD of ALL MY SKILLS & MY WORTH!!!!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Time for PAY IT FORWARD!!!!!!!!</span><br /><br />Anybody who blogs, has that thought, it takes to blog.... & the required skills too.... Some of them are extraordinary, some are not so particular about it, some others like me, are trying to catch up everyday..... So it becomes difficult for me to pass it to a limited seven.... but since this TAG demands it..... I here by get these people tagged with it.... (<span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">Believe me it has taken a lot of research & fights with myself...to get into this conclusion........</span>)<br /><br /><ol><li>Krishnaveni from <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://ruchiruchiadige.blogspot.com/">Ruchi Ruchi Adige</a> <br /></li><li>Elizabeth from <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://elizabethscraftroom.blogspot.com/">Elizabeth's Craft Room</a></li><li>Nitya from <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://nitsarts.blogspot.com/">Nits Arts & Crafts</a></li><li>Coconut Recipes from <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://freecoconutrecipes.blogspot.com/">Coconut Recipes</a></li><li>Prasu from <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://myculinaryworld-prasu.blogspot.com/">My Culinary World</a></li><li>Arundhuti S Rama from <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://gourmetaffair.blogspot.com/">Gourmet Affair</a></li><li>Sushma from <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://nsushma.blogspot.com/">Savi Ruchi</a><br /></li></ol>Kindly accept this TOFA............ & help me & all, Know <span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">YOU</span>............<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">WISHES & JOY TO ALL!!!!!</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />UNTIL NEXT, KEEP THE FAITH!!!!!</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><b><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/224/FB86AADF240FA45239B7963BAE4F9753.png" style="border: 0pt none ! important; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial;" /></a></b>Ashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12039911212235165959noreply@blogger.com72tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1541814323693333064.post-26196289895259368332010-01-10T11:32:00.009+05:302010-01-11T00:08:27.226+05:30BEET 'N' RICE & the FOODIE BLOGROLL : Contests and Rewards....... I WON!!!!!!!!!!!!!<p>HURRAY!!!!!!! for I won the <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.foodieblogroll.com/contests/comment-to-win-a-copy-of-sanjeev-kapoor-s-party-cooking-book-winner-for-january-8-2010"><span style="font-weight: bold;">"Comment to win a copy of Sanjeev kapoor's Party Cooking Book"</span></a> contest.......</p> That was the first time I participated in <span style="font-weight: bold;">the contest</span>, after checking it, for quite sometime now..... & Yuppie!!!! I won it....!!! I loved it because I would be adding another cook book to my shelf...... & that too of Mr. Sanjeev Kapoor, The Master Chef......!!! I like him because of all the twists & turns he gives to his preparations..... & makes it lovable at the end or rather edible..... which means.... HAPPY ENDING!!!!!! So did my contest..... "<span style="font-weight: bold;">had a HAPPY ENDING!!!!!</span> "<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/CONTESTS%20_%20%20LOGOS/contests_banner_sanjeev-kapoor-part.jpg" alt="Foodie Blogroll" height="150" width="596" /></p><br /><br />As usual I opened my mailbox to check out that days communication to me..... And I read all my comments first...HAPPY!!!!! Then directing them to their respective folders, I check the ones that are just informative or fun or "just Garbage"....... & opened this to see who won it...... & VOILA!!!!!!!!! It was me..... The blessed one..... (<span style="font-style: italic;">at least sometimes I am....</span>) ;-)<br /><br />I was so happy to read through it.... I even commented to receive that Tote bag.... which is truly cute & serves the purpose too.... but no regrets..... I love what I got...... OK.....!!!! will write more later.... Lets get down to talk about the prep, I wanted to post about......<br /><br />I love Beetroots...... !!!!! Is it not that I love almost everything existing?????? It sounds kinda repetitive...... So........... let me say, I adore beets a lot.... The primary reason being, it's color........ It is one vegetable, that is blessed with a bright vibrant color...... Just add this into anything, be it plain curd..... The same old curd would seem to appear happy with that new color it adorns..... Like a NEW BRIDE.... who is all pink, blushing & red in her outfit all gracing that nuptial bed!!!!!!! So does the beet seem to grace the bowl..........!!!!!!!!!!!<br /><br />During childhood, when mom prepared beetroot pallya, I would take a table spoonful of it, beat it into the curds & enjoyed this combo, like it was my own prep...... a yummy dessert...something like a custard....... I shared & ate the same with a lot of pride......<br /><br />And as I shared earlier, I get bored very soon with veggies prepared regularly..... It is then I get down to prepare a veggie rice or a pulao...... SO that day I had just a, <span style="font-weight: bold;">kinda dried up beet</span>, which I did not wanna waste.... So I thought I would add this to the rice & prepare a pulao kinda delight...... <span style="font-weight: bold;">Be it whatever, even grass cooked with a little salt, spice & oil would taste yum too..... !!!!!!!!!!</span> That was how this 'Beet'n Rice came into being.....<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/Beetnrice3.jpg" alt="Beetn Rice" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Beetn Rice</span><br /><br />Ingredients:<br /><br />Beetroot - 1 medium (<span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">dried...maybe ;-) sorry!</span>)<br />Long Grained Rice or Basmati - 2 cups (<span style="font-style: italic;">I used the regular though</span>)<br />Onion - 1 medium, finely chopped<br />Tomato - 1 small, finely chopped (<span style="font-style: italic;">optional</span>)<br />Ginger Garlic Paste - 1 1/2 tsp<br />Green Chilli - 1, slit lengthwise<br />Coriander Leaves - 6 to 7 twigs, finely chopped<br />Mint Leaves - a handful, finely chopped<br />Turmeric Powder - 1 tsp<br />Red Chilli Powder - 1 tsp<br />Garam Masala Powder - 1 tsp<br />Coriander Powder - 1 tsp<br />Cumin Powder - 1 tsp<br />Oil - 2 tbsp<br />Water - 1 1/2 cups<br />Salt to Taste<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">PS:</span> May add all the whole spices (<span style="font-style: italic;">Ghota Masala</span>) for that rich taste.<br /><br />Method:<br /><br />Peel & wash the beetroot, well. Cut them into small cubes & keep aside..... Wash the rice, drain & keep it aside too.<br /><br />Place a cooker on fire & heat the oil. Now add the slit green chilli & saute for a minute. Then add the chopped onions & fry till translucent. Add ginger garlic paste & stir fry for a minute or two. If adding tomato, then do & fry till it is soft & mushy. Then add the cubed beet & stir fry. Then add the chopped leaves & stir fry further, till all the ingredients blend well. Now add the powdered masalas & combine, stirring at regular intervals. Do not forget the salt......<br /><br />When all the ingredients have been fried & combined well, add enough water, tighten the lid & wait for 4 to 5 whistles. Remove from fire...... allow the steam to release completely, all by itself...... Now transfer the finally 'Beetn Rice' to a serving bowl....<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/Beetnrice2.jpg" alt="Beetn Rice" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />Now for the accompaniment..... goes with anything & everything..... If nothing more is available.... just make a simple raitha.... for it....<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Simple Cucumber Raitha</span><br /><br />Ingredients:<br /><br />Set Curd - 1/2 cup<br />Cucumber - 1/4 cup, finely chopped<br />Salt to Taste<br /><br />Method:<br /><br />Beat the set curd well.... to a thick & smooth consistency. Add the chopped cucumber & salt & mix well, gently.....<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/CucumberRaitha.jpg" alt="Cucumber Raitha" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />Now serve the above prepared 'Beetn Rice' with this yummy & delectable raitha. Savor with sounds every time you relish a spoonful of this delectable preparation.........<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/Beetnrice1.jpg" alt="Beetn Rice" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">BLOGFARE:</span><br /><br /><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.sailajakitchen.com/2010/01/award_09.html">Sailaja</a> has passed on her Beautiful Blogger Blogfare with her friends..... As I consider myself to be one too, did take a pick......... & I would like to thank her, for being so large heart 'ed & passing on the same.........<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/Beautifulbloggeraward.jpg" alt="Beautiful Blogger" height="200" width="200" /></p><br /><br />Hmmmmmmm....... But that doesn't stop there...... as I need to announce my <span style="font-weight: bold;">WIN!!! WIN!!! TOFA</span>, my reward, that I was bragging about at the very beginning of this post......<br /><br />So this is what <span style="font-weight: bold;">I commented</span> on the "<a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.foodieblogroll.com/contests/comment-to-win-a-copy-of-sanjeev-kapoor-s-party-cooking-book#com%20%20ments">Comment to win a copy of Sanjeev Kapoor's Party Cooking Book</a>" contest! Hope it is clear..... though not CRYSTAL CLEAR!!!!<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/FoodieComment.jpg" alt="Foodie Blogroll" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><a href="http://shar.es/aFb5D">Foodie Blogroll : Contests and Rewards</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.foodieblogroll.com/contests" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.foodieblogroll.com/images/foodie-blogroll-contests-winner.png" alt="The Foodie Blog Roll Contests: Winner!" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />But as I just read now, it says, to write about it when I receive it...... which I have not..... It's OK..... The day I receive it, I would flaunt it in flesh (pages & cover) & brag about it again, too...... I can always write about things, without falling short of words....... And yes! I love & adore that small & cute little Rewards ICON!!!! Don't you ..............???????????<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">WISHING ALL LUCK & HOPE!!!!!!!!!</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />UNTIL WE C NEXT...... KEEP THE FAITH!!!!!!!!! :-)</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><b><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/224/FB86AADF240FA45239B7963BAE4F9753.png" style="border: 0pt none ! important; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial;" /></a></b>Ashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12039911212235165959noreply@blogger.com45tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1541814323693333064.post-16977666513187812352010-01-05T18:09:00.008+05:302010-01-05T20:23:25.728+05:30CASUALS FOR KUKU ( First Post this Year, with 'CASUAL' Card for Kuku on his Birthday)<p>Hey Peeps!!!!!! I'm back with my first posting for this New Year........ Hurray!!!!!!! It's 2010!!!!!!!!!</p>I hope to see a better year...... free of sorrows & tears..... free of pain....... free of fear ...be it any sort..... Just let yourself free mentally & give way to happiness & joy to make its place in your lives.....<br /><br />I loved the recent Ad I watched on TV.... based on Indo Pak relation..... (<span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">The AMAN KI ASHA - INDO PAK PEACE PROJECT</span>) ..... It was so simple in its make & understanding..... There was only one basic thing to it...... EMOTIONS!!!! And the main base for it is <span style="font-weight: bold;">TRANSPARENCY </span>(<span style="font-style: italic;">BE GENUINE</span>.......) Emotions are basically so simple & common across the world..... We make them complicated.....<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">BE TRANSPARENT...... EMOTIONS WOULD BE CLEAR</span>...... Be it love or anger........<br /><br />Do not make them so complicated, that you, just see yourself stuck in those tangles & knots..... finding it difficult to make YOUR way to LOVE & in turn making it difficult, for LOVE to make its way TO YOU........ When you realize the wrong you have done, put in all the efforts to not repeat them..... You say SORRY & continue doing the same... no use..... no meaning......<br /><br />Let us all, let our emotions fly like doves, free & peaceful, around us...... Keeping fingers crossed!!!!!!<br /><br />By the end of the year my cousin sis in-law flew down to India from UK, & I had to see her at my mom's place...... but could not.... again because of my health..... Later, when I went to my mom, mom gave me the goodies that she left for me...... COOKIES..... Yummy ones.... She had missed my brother's wedding & gave his wifey a jewelery box, which was splendid..... Beautiful & elegant in its own way.... I have no pic of that.....sorry!!!!! But here are the cookies, for u too.........<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/Cookies.jpg" alt="Cookies" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />My New Year eve was boring & sad..... because of my health issues...... But thought would do something or at least prepare something interesting for my hubby...... My Badimaa/ Doddamma called, & asked me to have an early dinner, by evening, because of some bad effects of my stars & the eclipse that was to happen.... Hmmmm..... There we dropped the idea of making the eve interesting....<br /><br />It never happens that she advices me often or in turn I follow all that she says..... When she was worried & concerned about me & my health, I thought why not I show her, that I cared for her, too..... What she expected was not something out of the world or something that I could not do..... Hence I did with my meals as she said & gave Kuku a usual but late dinner..... Kuku, is bad with his hunger pangs..... Thought why trouble him, with me & my screwed up stars......?????? So that was our New Year Eve.....<br /><br />But the next day...... I wore my apron to give him a better or best lunch......& I did...... Nothing different, but our usual, that we love............. He was <span style="font-weight: bold;">FULLLLLLL...... KHUSHHHHHHH......</span> He savored the meal with much appreciation & content...... I was happy seeing him happy.....<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/NewYearDelicacies.jpg" alt="New Year Delights" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />It is only with him, that I can be what I am, totally transparent, no covers, no pretenses..... HE IS ALL THAT I HAVE..... I THANK GOD FOR blessing ME, with HIM...... But sometimes I see myself failing him too, when I tend to stretch too much.... <span style="font-weight: bold;">It is always better to make ONE HAPPY, than DISAPPOINTING them ALL</span>....... I'll remember that..... forever.....!!!!!<br /><br />When we begin with the new year & its celebrations...... my celebrations kick starts too...... Because 4th of Jan, is my Kuku's Birthday...... The auspicious day of Kuku's birth... The day God sent him for me, on this earth.... Sad that he had to wait for me, for two years..... And then, we both had to wait for 17 years, <span style="font-weight: bold;">JAB WE finally MET....</span> We were both in college, that too different ones .....<br /><br />Now when I sit back to think, I miss all those days, that we were away from each other.... those cute child like & childish moments that we spent .... those games we played as kids, those fights we fought, those laughs we laughed, those tears we wiped with our hands..... all alone, those growing up issues, those Crush we felt or experienced..... <span style="font-weight: bold;">when we were ALREADY DESTINED to LOVE & LIVE for EACH OTHER.</span>.... I MISS KUKU in ALL THOSE MOMENTS........... Ooooooooops!!!!<br /><br />I go nuts, thinking about how would it have been...... Anyways, now I try all that I can, to make up for all those days that I was away from him........ I even feel that at the time of my death... I would still feel, that I have not loved him enough............ Crazy!!!!!! <span style="font-weight: bold;">In its true sense....literally....kuku.....</span> Hmmmmm......<br /><br />Coming back to where we stopped, I sat down to make a card for him on his Birthday........ I wondered what I would give him..... I love him in his casual Adidas T's... I wanted to gift him those.... but as usual he owns many & is into Garments himself... So I thought of this.....<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">JUST FOR HIM......</span><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/Casuals4Kuku1.jpg" alt="Birthday Kuku" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/Casuals4Kuku3.jpg" alt="Birthday Kuku" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/Casuals4Kuku2.jpg" alt="Birthday Kuku" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/Casuals4Kuku4.jpg" alt="Birthday Kuku" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/Casuals4Kuku8.jpg" alt="Birthday Kuku" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/Casuals4Kuku5.jpg" alt="Birthday Kuku" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/Casuals4Kuku6.jpg" alt="Birthday Kuku" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/Casuals4Kuku7.jpg" alt="Birthday Kuku" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />He loved, what I made for him..... I could feel his happiness..... & was moved too..... I played the birthday tune for him on comp & gave this card to him at 12:00 mid night.... The next day morning we went to temple & had a quiet lunch at home, since we had non veg already for the new year....& did not wanna repeat.... I prepared kheer for him, to celebrate.....<br /><br />So here I am today, posting all these kiss-happenings in my life...till this day of the new year...... & looking forward to many more.....<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">BLOGFARES!!!!!!!!</span><br /><br />This new year also got me few appreciations from my blogger friends..... Which I would love to flaunt here........... & of course take this opportunity to thank them for their kind gesture, too.........<br /><br />I would like to thank <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://auxdelicesdesgourmets.blogspot.com/2009/12/bonne-annee.html">For the Gourmet Delights</a> or <span style="text-decoration: underline;"></span><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://auxdelicesdesgourmets.blogspot.com/">auxdelicesdesgourmets</a> for passing on this conspicuous TOFA.....<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/apprciationaward.jpg" alt="2009 Award" height="220" width="202" /></p><br /><br />& would also thank <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://ensamayalkuripugal.blogspot.com/">Aruna Manikandan</a> for sharing this cute & lovable award with me.....<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/Lovely.png" alt="Lovable Award" height="166" width="191" /></p><br /><br />THANK YOU BOTH!!!!!!<br /><br />With lots & lots of love & joy, Until we meet Next...... <span style="font-weight: bold;">KEEP THE FAITH!!!!!!</span><br /><br /><br /><b><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/224/FB86AADF240FA45239B7963BAE4F9753.png" style="border: 0pt none ! important; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial;" /></a></b>Ashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12039911212235165959noreply@blogger.com33tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1541814323693333064.post-57090768023009066622009-12-31T20:35:00.007+05:302009-12-31T22:37:26.000+05:30SUN DRIED SWEET POTATO ROUNDS (Genasina Happala, Shakkarkhand Papad)<p>Congrats!!!!!! to all...... on the last few moments of this year....... Good or Bad.... It has passed..... And the new has already arrived in few parts of this world.....Very beautifully welcomed, as I saw in the news...... At Australia & New Zealand..... Beautiful Fireworks......Oh! how splendid & colorful it all looked.....<br /></p>All awaiting the new year, with lots of new hopes & aspirations..... in, to & from life .....<br /><br />Hoping to see a better year..... minus all the bad that we faced this year.......<br /><br />The recession...that led to the downfall of most of the small business... self employed..... The ever increasing cost of living...... which only sees the rich getting richer & the poor getting poorer..... & the middle class...not knowing where they are heading to...... may be the drains....<br />Many sad demises, some very close to heart...... some big names around..... some failures..... leading to sadness & drifts...... & many more....<br /><br />Hoping to see the best...... with accounts prospering..... success to see further success.....peeps discovering the wealth of health, love & care, mistakes realized & set to correction......the newly weds expecting new births..............& many more..........<br /><br />I personally pray to God, to help me retain all the good that I have & wanted, for me & my family............ God Bless!!!!!<br /><br />Let us here at <span style="font-weight: bold;">BLOGGYWOOD</span>....... celebrate & build more & more cheer readers...... that keeps <span style="font-weight: bold;">this</span> part of our lives, LIVELY & ENTHUSIASTIC........... I would love to take this opportunity to thank all my new friends from Bloggywood...who are indeed a part of me now..... & hope to see many more.... in the days to come......<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">THANKS & WELCOME to ALL OLD & NEW CHEER READERS!!!!!!!!!</span><br /><br />This time when dad went to Puttur, he found the sweet potato produce, going waste..... He thought of getting it into a good use.... As my aunt is allergic to it & my dad cannot eat them, as he is diabetic, he thought of a tea time snacky prep out of them....... That was the best, he<br />thought out of the produce going waste..... No doubts!!!!<br /><br />Ingredients:<br /><br />Sweet Potato (<span style="font-style: italic;">ಗೆಣಸು, शकरकंद</span>) - 1 kg<br />Salt to Taste<br />Red Chilli Powder - 2 tsp<br />Cumin Seeds - 1 1/2 tsp<br />Asafoetida (<span style="font-style: italic;">Heeng</span>) powder - 1/2 tsp<br />Oil<br />Small Plastic Sheets - 2<br />Mat or Big Polythene sheets (<span style="font-style: italic;">to dry the papads</span>)<br /><br />Method:<br /><br />Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly & steam cook. Once done, peel off the skin. Now grind the pulp in a mixer grinder without water, fine, as to get a soft & smooth paste. Then, empty the ground mixture into a wide mouthed vessel, oil your hands & knead the paste,<br />with all the above mentioned ingredients except oil...... into a soft dough (<span style="font-style: italic;">Consistency of a roti dough</span>) Now make small lemon sized balls.<br /><br />Then press or roll these small balls in between two slightly oiled, stiff plastic sheets, into thin rounds, with the help of a rolling pin.<br /><br />Do not lift these rolled out rounds, with bare hands..... Just place them onto the sheet or mat, that would be used to dry these papads on.......& remove the plastic slowly, once the rolled round is placed on that sheet. Allow it to sun dry for minimum two days...... (<span style="font-style: italic;">Best under the scorching sun</span>).<br /><br />Then collect them & store in an airtight container, to be used for days to come.<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/SweetPotaoPapad.jpg" alt="Sweet Potato Papad" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />Deep fry them as & when needed, & enjoy..... For those who are oil conscious, you can just place them in the microwave for 30 seconds....... & enjoy them oil free ......<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/SweetPotaoPapad1.jpg" alt="Sweet Potato Papad" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/SweetPotaoPapad2.jpg" alt="Sweet Potato Papad" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />It is a good Tea Time Snack..... And this goes to the<br /><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://simpleindianfood.blogspot.com/2009/11/wyftea-time-snack.html">WYF:Tea time snack event announcement</a>, held by Simple Indian Food........ I know this would be a last minute entry..... but better late than never...... I guess!!!!<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/CONTESTS%20_%20%20LOGOS/Logodec.jpg" alt="tea time snack" height="150" width="241" /></p><br /><br />Oh! BTW ..... remember those <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://asha-oceanichope.blogspot.com/2009/11/mugs-cup-t-s-my-proud-collections-first.html">Cups & Mugs</a>, I spoke about in my earlier post..... & my favorite Evening Tea set.????????????<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/Deceased.jpg" alt="deceased" height="200" width="200" /></p><br /><br />Yes, that was the one...... Yes! It is no more..... I feel sad & sorry for the deceased mug!!!! Who killed it???? Who else..... My love ...... My Kuku , who masters the art of breaking my mugs & cups....... He broke one...few days back.....but I had not come across <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.kitchentantra.com/2009/12/kitchen-mishaps-event-announcement.html">Malar's Kitchen Mishaps</a>.... then..... If I had I would have captured the mug, rather every bits & pieces of the mug..... Because they were totally shattered around in my kitchen.... We were playing around & accidentally he hit the mug down...... Boooooom!!!!! It went....... but in vain...no snap as I was upset then..... After a few days he sent the other of the lovely pair.... on its way to join its soul mate......by breaking the handle of it..... What use would it be without the handle.....???? So the other went too....<br />They would be remembered forever.........May they REST IN PEACE!!!!!!!<br /><br />But yes, he got me new ones to substitute, those favorites.....<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/TeaTime.jpg" alt="substitute" height="420" width="580" /></p>I love these now..... God Bless them.... Know not how long would these last....... !!!!!!!!!!?????<br /><br /><br />After days of looking around for it, I got to taste the new Maggi Pastas..... I liked both the flavors... Yummy!!!!! I had once tasted the pasta that they served at Domino's Pizza...... but Yuck!!!! I personally did not like them.......<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/MaggiPasta.jpg" alt="Maggi Pazzta" height="420" width="580" /></p><br />But this is without doubts...here to stay..... like their noodles.....the yummy pazzzzzzzta!!!!!!!!<br /><br />And all said & done, let us all hope for a beautiful tomorrow.......<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!!!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">HAPPY CELEBRATIONS!!!!!!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">UNTIL WE MEET NEXT, KEEP THE FAITH!!!!!!!</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><b><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/224/FB86AADF240FA45239B7963BAE4F9753.png" style="border: 0pt none ! important; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial;" /></a></b>Ashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12039911212235165959noreply@blogger.com39tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1541814323693333064.post-70416221382739198952009-12-24T20:23:00.011+05:302009-12-27T14:00:26.487+05:30MEAT RASSA (Mutton Gravy, Mutton Saaru)<p>As I mentioned in my <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://asha-oceanichope.blogspot.com/2009/07/simple-mutton-pulao-mutton-palavmutton.html">earlier post</a>, I got to taste this prep at my in-laws..... So this is my 'Delicacy in-law'. And when it is well cooked with the meat pieces very soft & juicy, is very divine...... in taste...... My folks love it a lot....My brother takes 2-3 servings for lunch.....& loves it with rotis too.....</p><br /><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/MuttonGravy4.jpg" alt="Meat Rassa" height="420" width="580" /><br /><br /><br />But as the fat is on a higher & primary side, we all tend to avoid it.... but failing at the hands of our taste buds, sometimes, pleading for a morsel, & craving for more later..... Many a times when I have prepared it & my mom calls up to find out what have I prepared for lunch.... I would lie.... giving her a wrong menu for the day...... Kuku, tells her about it, when we visit her sometimes later & I get caught.....Ooops!!!!! ;-) Then I would hear her again saying "cholesterol & high in fat...please do not indulge more...." I know but how do I let my taste buds know it..... They are<br />so mean on me....many a times..... ;-)<br /><br />A year earlier, when I started visiting my doctor, who specializes in homeopathic meds, she used to ask me about my non veg intake too..... I did not lie but not always revealed the truth completely..... She kept a check then.....& I checked my weight more often.... but now..... Not that I indulge myself in non veg regularly, but she stopped asking me about it..... may be she thought it was a waste of time & energy asking 'me' about it..... But I must tell you this....<br /><br />She (My Doc) now reads my posts too.... & as the secret reveals <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;"><br />"She Knows What I Ate Last Supper"</span> or what I ate when !!!!!!!!!!!!! ;-) I am happy she does & sometimes scared too.....<br /><br />!!!!!!<span style="font-style: italic;">One is always scared when they are at wrong....</span>.!!!!!<br /><br />Anyway, anything within a limit...is always good.... Too Much Is Too Bad........<br />As they say " If taken too much, even the so called '<span style="font-weight: bold;">Immortal Nectar</span>' turns '<span style="font-weight: bold;">poisonous</span>'"...... <span style="font-style: italic;"><br /><br />Hmmm!!! With all the <span style="font-weight: bold;">non veg talk, now done</span>...lets get down to note the recipe of this prep.......</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />Meat Rassa (</span><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Meat रस्सा</span><span style="font-weight: bold;">)</span><br /><br />Ingredients:<br /><br />Mutton - 1kg (<span style="font-style: italic;">cleaned & washed</span>)<br />Tomato - 5 medium (<span style="font-style: italic;">finely chopped</span>)<br />Onions - 6 big (<span style="font-style: italic;">finely sliced</span>)<br />Ginger Garlic Paste - 4 tsp<br />Red Chilli Powder - 2 tsp<br />Turmeric Powder - 1 tsp<br />Garam Masala Powder - 2 tsp<br />Coriander Powder - 2 tsp<br />Cumin Powder - 2 tsp<br />Kitchen King Masala - 2 tsp<br />Salt to Taste<br />Curd - 3 tbsp<br />Mustard Oil - 6 tbsp<br />Water - 4 cups<br />Coriander Leaves - 4 twigs (<span style="font-style: italic;">finely chopped</span>)<br /><br />WHOLE SPICES<br /><br />Dry Red Chilli - 6, broken<br />Cinnamon - 5 pieces<br />Cloves - 4 pieces<br />Cardamom - 1 piece<br />Bay Leaf - 2 to 3 pieces<br /><br />Method:<br /><br />Marinate the cleaned & washed mutton pieces with a tsp each of turmeric powder & salt. Keep it aside for 20 minutes. Beat the curd well & keep it aside too.<br /><br /><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/MuttonGravy2.jpg" alt="Meat Rassa" height="420" width="580" /><br /><br />Now heat oil in a pressure pan or cooker. Add the whole spices one by one..... Once they are sauteed on low flame, add the sliced onions & fry till translucent. Then add the chopped tomatoes & stir fry till they combine well. Add ginger garlic paste & fry further for 2 minutes.<br /><br /><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/MuttonGravy1.jpg" alt="Meat Rassa" height="420" width="580" /><br /><br />Then add all the masala powders mentioned & stir fry to blend them all well. Now add the beaten curd & stir fry till the masala throws the oil out.<br /><br /><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/MuttonGravy3.jpg" alt="Meat Rassa" height="420" width="580" /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">PS:</span> This step makes sure that the masala is well combined & cooked well.<br /><br />Add the mutton pieces & stir fry for 35 minutes. Keeping stirring carefully so that the masala does not stick to the pan & the pieces do not get shredded. When the oil tends to leave the masala mixture, add water, depending on how well you require your meat to be cooked.....<br /><br />WELL I LOVE MEAT WELL COOKED (which just melts in my mouth leaving its juice behind for me to relish on)!!!!!!!!<br /><br />Now cover it with the lid & allow it to whistle for 6 whistles...... When all the steam gets released, uncover & mix the gravy slightly, avoiding the pieces from breaking up......Transfer into a serving bowl.<br /><br />Garnish with the chopped coriander leaves & serve it hot with either plain rice or a well prepared flavoured rice & some salad too.....<br /><br /><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/MuttonGravy5.jpg" alt="Meat Rassa" height="420" width="580" /><br /><br /><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/salad1.jpg" alt="Salad" height="420" width="580" /><br /><br /><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/Salad3.jpg" alt="Salad" height="420" width="580" /><br /><br />And accompanies the roti, parata & almost all kinda bread... too for dinner..... :-)<br /><br /><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/MuttonGravy6.jpg" alt="Meat Rassa" height="420" width="580" /><br /><br />This prep is on its way to the <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.srishkitchen.com/2009/12/efm-mutton-series.html">EFM - Mutton Series</a>........ conducted by <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.srishkitchen.com/">SrishKitchen</a>.....<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">"DO find Your place there my Meat Rassa</span> ;-)<br /><br /><p><a href="http://www.srishkitchen.com/2009/12/efm-mutton-series.html"><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/CONTESTS%20_%20%20LOGOS/efmseries.jpg" alt="Mutton Pulao" height="225" width="225" /></a><br /></p><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />BLOGFARES:</span><br /><br />And with the year coming to an end, there are few <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">blogfares</span>, that need to be flaunted here.... with a tag of THANKS!!! of course.........<br /><br />I thank <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.sailajakitchen.com/">Sailaja</a> for passing on the hearty flowers<br /><br /><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/flower-wallpaper-love-aster_high.jpg" alt="Hearty Flowers" height="184" width="400" /><br /><br />and <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://curryandbeyond.blogspot.com/">Dolly</a>, <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://malabar-ruchi.blogspot.com/">Vineeta</a> & <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://kothiyavunu.blogspot.com/">Sangeeta</a> for sharing their CHEERS!!!!!!<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/Cheerreading-1.jpg" alt="Cheer Readers" height="264" width="364" /></p><br /><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/thankuaward-1.jpg" alt="Thanks" height="214" width="319" /><br /><br />Cho.........Chweeeeeeeeeeet that baby girl is............... I wish she was mine...... :-( Anyways....<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">HAPPY CELEBRATIONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!</span><br /><br /><a href="http://s990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/Labels%20Buttons/?action=view&current=wish-2.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/Labels%20Buttons/wish-2.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">CHEERS TO ONE & ALL!!!!!!!!!!!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">UNTIL NEXT...... KEEP THE FAITH!!!!!!!!!!</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><b><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/224/FB86AADF240FA45239B7963BAE4F9753.png" style="border: 0pt none ! important; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial;" /></a></b>Ashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12039911212235165959noreply@blogger.com33tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1541814323693333064.post-44009179056112484332009-12-20T00:36:00.001+05:302009-12-21T12:05:28.743+05:30SIMPLE MUTTON PULAO (Mutton Palav,Mutton Biryani)<p>I still remember, mom had stopped preparing mutton at home because of the fat content in it. May be then, my brother & me, were in the 3rd & 7th, respectively. Since then it was only fish on a regular basis. Chicken was prepared to celebrate some important days of our life, like dad & mom's anniversary or our birthdays. It was only during college days, I got to taste the meat again at my friend Sharu's(Sharada) place. I simply loved it. They had it with the raagi (finger millet) ball, what they called as mudde(ಮುದ್ದೆ). Since I was not aware of this meal, I relished the mutton gravy with rice. And I really loved it.<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></span></p>I told mom, & she was like"you would put on weight". Years passed & I married "the Love of my Life -<span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;"> Kuku</span>", & I had been to my in-laws at Gaya (<span style="font-style: italic;">Bihar</span>) for the festival of <span style="font-weight: bold;">CHHATT</span>, which falls on the 6th day after DIWALI-The festival of Lights. That was my first visit to my hubby's native. After the chhatt festival I was there for few more days & my sister-in-law(<span style="font-style: italic;">Vandana Didi - Kuku's elder sister</span>), prepared mutton gravy for lunch. And believe me it is hard to explain the feeling, you only have to experience it. It was totally yum.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">I love my meat (</span><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">chicken or mutton</span><span style="font-weight: bold;">) well cooked.</span><br /><br />And the mutton was cooked so well that you take it into your mouth, and it would just melt away down your throat. Leaving the juice of the meat on your taste buds. And that too, to sit together with all the four sisters (<span style="font-style: italic;">Nanads</span>) & Bhabhi (<span style="font-style: italic;">Rita Didi- Co-Sister</span>) & eat from the same plate, added all the love & happiness to this preparation. Oh! what a taste to relish. Since then I fell in love with this meat. I kept telling everyone about this pleasant meaty & juicy experience.<br /><span style="font-style: italic;"><br />Good meat well cooked - is heaven. </span><br /><br />A year back, I was watching this particular cookery show on the channel 9x, "Rasm-E-Rasoi", & the Anchor chef prepared some mutton preparation, & thuranth hamara mann kar gaya khaane ko (<span style="font-style: italic;">थुरंथ</span><span style="font-style: italic;"> </span><span style="font-style: italic;">हमारा</span><span style="font-style: italic;"> </span><span style="font-style: italic;">मन्न</span><span style="font-style: italic;"> </span><span style="font-style: italic;">कर</span><span style="font-style: italic;"> </span><span style="font-style: italic;">गया</span><span style="font-style: italic;"> </span><span style="font-style: italic;">खाने</span><span style="font-style: italic;"> </span><span style="font-style: italic;">को</span>) & I told Kuku that I wanted to try preparing mutton gravy & he obliged & said he would help me with that. And that was the first time we prepared mutton at home.<br /><br />We prepared it the way they prepare at my hubby's place. And guess what, it came out really well & very much yum. I took a little for my mom & she loved it. Though we are all reluctant, to eat mutton because of the "fat", just cannot resist the taste of it. We prepare mutton once in a month or once in two months or sometimes even in four months. And we all love it.<br /><br />Since my brother got married just recently & we had to invite the couple home for lunch, we thought it would be best to prepare mutton for the newly wedded couple, as his wife is from Mangalore & has not tasted the typical Bihari non veg preparation.<br /><br />Out of the mutton that we got, I kept a few piece aside (<span style="font-style: italic;">a small bowl of 6-8 pieces</span>) & prepared the gravy. <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">That came out yum....as my Sis in-law had prepared</span>....... Okay! so where was I ????? Haan, yes, then "<span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">ting</span>" came the thought of trying out Mutton Pulao. My hubby said no, as we had very few pieces of the meat, but then I told him that was amount I wanted. Like the Hyderabadi Biryani that they serve in hotels, which has just a piece of chicken in it & the rest is rice, I wanted to prepare something similar to it. A very simple Mutton Pulao.<br /><br />Regarding the gravy, I would write sometime later. Right now let's go ahead with our simple MUTTON PULAO.<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/MuttonPulao1.jpg" alt="Mutton Pulao" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />Ingredients:<br /><br />Basmati Rice (<span style="font-style: italic;">Long Grain Rice</span>) - 4 cups<br />Mutton Pieces - a small bowl (<span style="font-style: italic;">8 pieces</span>)<br />Onion - 2, chopped lengthwise<br />Whole Red Chilli - 2-3, Broken<br />Cloves - 2-3<br />Cardamom - 1-2<br />Cinnamon - 2-3, 1 inch piece<br />Tomato - 2, finely chopped<br />Cashew Nuts - A morsel or 9-10<br />Bay Leaf - 2-3<br />Curd - 1 tbsp<br />Salt to Taste<br />Ginger Garlic Paste - 2 tsp<br />Turmeric Powder - 2 tsp<br />Oil or Ghee - 4 tbsp<br />Mint Leaves - A cup, washed & chopped finely<br />Coriander Leaves - A cup, washed & chopped finely<br />Anise Stars - 2<br />Black Cardamom - 1<br /><br />Method:<br /><br />Wash & soak the rice in water for 5-10 minutes.<br /><br />In a deep bottomed vessel or a cooker, heat some oil & fry the mutton pieces with a little salt & turmeric powder. Then add enough water to cook the meat & cover the lid & let the whistle blow for 5 minutes. Since the mutton is a bit hard & not tender as the meat of chicken, it needs this extra cooking to see that it blends well with the rice.<br /><br />Now place another pressure cooker on medium flame. Pour oil or ghee into it. Once the oil is hot drop the bay leaves, cinnamon, cardamom, stars & cloves. Once the spices leave their aroma, add the broken chilli & onions. Fry till the onion turns translucent. Now add the ginger garlic paste & stir fry for a couple of minutes. Now add in the cashew nuts & let it fry along with the other contents. Then add the chopped tomatoes & fry further for another couple of minutes or till the tomatoes look tender. Now add turmeric powder & salt & saute for 2 minutes. Add the chopped mint & coriander leaves & saute for 2 minutes. Then add the curd. Mix well & see the masala change color.<br /><br />Drain the water, & add the rice into the cooker & stir fry for 4-5 minutes. Now add the cooked mutton pieces & stir fry for a minute. Pour enough water, to cook the rice appropriately.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">PS:</span> Usually for plain rice, the water is in the ratio 1:2. But for any rice preparation, reduce the quantity of water a bit so as to not over cook the rice. Hence the ratio may be 1:1 1/4 or 1 1/2.<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/MuttonPulao2.jpg" alt="Mutton Pulao" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />Cover the lid & let the whistle blow for 4-5 whistles. Once it has cooled, just mix the preparation lightly, taking care to not break the rice. Serve the steaming, yum mutton pulao with any kind of raitha or with any gravy.<br /><br />Relish the pleasing aroma with the pleasing & rich taste of all the ingredients.........<br /><br />THIS POST HAS BEEN RE POSTED, to send it, on its way to the 'MUTTON SERIES', held by <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.srishkitchen.com/2009/12/efm-mutton-series.html">Srish Kitchen</a>......<br /><br /><p><a href="http://www.srishkitchen.com/2009/12/efm-mutton-series.html"><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/CONTESTS%20_%20%20LOGOS/efmseries.jpg" alt="Mutton Pulao" height="225" width="225" /></a><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>And this teasing Pulao.... that is the <span style="font-weight: bold;">'Mutt' 'on'</span>, its way to find its place in the series...... Thanks to <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.srishkitchen.com/">Srish Kitchen</a> for the "<a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.srishkitchen.com/2009/12/efm-mutton-series.html">EFM Theme - Mutton Series</a>"...... Following this may be the Yum gravy............toooo....... ;-)</p><p><br /></p><p>Happy Celebrations!!!!! Cheers To All!!!!!<br /></p><p><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">PS:</span> (<span style="font-style: italic;">If u have not collected the <a href="http://asha-oceanichope.blogspot.com/2009/12/machli-baat-maach-baat-maach-jhor-fish.html">Cheers token</a> from my previous Post..... Then Please Do.... What r u waiting for ......????? CHRISTMAS ???????</span> ;-))<br /></p><p>Until next.... KEEP THE FAITH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!<br /></p><br /><br /><b><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/224/FB86AADF240FA45239B7963BAE4F9753.png" style="border: 0pt none ! important; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial;" /></a></b>Ashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12039911212235165959noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1541814323693333064.post-74813690016652718502009-12-16T12:19:00.017+05:302009-12-16T17:55:04.720+05:30MACHLI BAAT (Maach Baat, Maach Jhor, Fish in Mustard Gravy With Rice)<p>I remember this nursery rhyme, that Kuku taught me.....</p><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(204, 102, 204); font-weight: bold;">"मछली जल की रानी है</span> <span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(204, 102, 204); font-weight: bold;"> <span><br />उसका</span> जीवन पानी है</span> <span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(204, 102, 204); font-weight: bold;"> <span><br />हाथ</span> लगाओ तो डर जायेगी</span> <span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(204, 102, 204); font-weight: bold;"> <span><br />बाहर</span> निखालो तो मर जायेगी" </span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(204, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;">("Machli Jal Ki Raani Hai</span> <span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(204, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;"><br />Uska Jeevan Paani Hai</span> <span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(204, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;"><br />Haath Lagao To Darr Jaayegi</span> <span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(204, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;"><br />Baahar Nikhaalo To Mar Jaayegi" </span><span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0); font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">)</span><br /><br />Lovely rhyme, Isn't it ???? Hmmm..... Very 'Fishy' indeed......<br /><br />The only kinda fish prep I knew was that from Mangalore.... the traditional gravy, with coconut as the main ingredient used. The other I got to know was without coconut, but with just the powdered masalas... just plain......<br /><br />Only after my wedding, the fish gravy I got to taste was the Bihari prep.... which is very yum & 'pleasing your palate' too...... <span style="font-weight: bold;">Fish in Mustard Sauce</span>.......<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/MaachJhor1.jpg" alt="Maach Jhor" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />The taste is so catchy, that one would be left with a feeling of "wanna have more".....It makes you end up eating a morsel more than usual. Very tangy & chatpata! My folks at home, they all have a crave for it on a higher side, especially my mom...... I remember once when she had to come home, she took almost 2 hours to reach..... I was like What??? Where????When???? It was when she reached that I got to know, she stopped at the fish market to get some fresh fish, for me to prepare her favorite for her...... When she decides on something, she would go to any extent..... & she loves fish a lot..... Since she has been diagnosed with cholesterol, she has to curb those cravings.......<br /><br />I would like to share an incident, that shows her cravings for fish..... This was when she learn' t to ride my scooty... just started.... One morning when we woke up she was not there nor the scooty.... we were all so worried.....My brother called me up to find out if she came, to my place.... After an hour we got know that she had been 'FISHING' (<span style="font-style: italic;">to the Fish Market Of course</span>)....on her own..... She comes back with a big GRIN on her face, like this ..... :-) & we were all, like this :-0 ........ LOL!!!!<br /><br />OMG!!! New rider without a license on that busy & potholed dampy roads, going 'Fishy'!!!!! That is how she is.... Very daring!!!! Always ready for adventure & excitement......<br />Let her be so forever......God!<br /><br />Now coming back to my Fishy Business...... here's how one can prepare that delicious MAACH JHOR! as it is called in Bengali.....<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/MaachJhor.jpg" alt="Maach Jhor" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />Ingredients:<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">(serves two)</span><br /><br />Anjaal (<span style="font-style: italic;">King Fish</span>) - 2 pieces<br />Tomato - 2 medium<br />Onion - 2 medium, sliced lengthwise<br />Ginger Garlic Paste - 2 tsp<br />Lemon - 1 big, cut into half & De-seeded<br />Dry Red Chilli - 4, broken<br />Mustard Seeds - 2 tbsp<br />Salt to Taste<br />Turmeric Powder - 1 tsp<br />Cumin Powder - 2 tsp<br />Red Chilli Powder - 1/2 tsp<br />Coriander Powder - 1 tbsp<br />Mustard Oil - 6 tbsp<br />Water - 2 cups<br /><br />Marination:<br /><br />Salt to Taste<br />Turmeric Powder - 1/2 tsp<br />Red Chilli Powder - 1/2 tsp<br /><br />Method:<br /><br />Marinate the cleaned & washed fish & keep aside for half an hour. Grind tomato, ginger garlic & mustard seeds, into a fine paste.<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/MaachBaat2.jpg" alt="Maach Jhor" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />Heat oil a deep bottomed vessel or a wok. Deep fry the marinated fish pieces till golden brown & keep aside.<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/MaachBaat1.jpg" alt="Maach Jhor" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />In the same oil, fry the broken red chilli & sliced onions till translucent. When done add the paste into it & fry for 3 minutes. Now add all the masala powders & stir fry for 2 minutes. Then add the fried fish into the masala mixture & stir for 2 minutes. Add 2 cups of water & squeeze the one whole lemon & stir. Now allow it to cook for 7 minutes, covered, on a low flame.<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/MaachJhor3.jpg" alt="Maach Jhor" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />When done serve it piping hot with a serving of piping hot rice. Sliced cucumber would also accompany this Machli Baat the best.<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/MaachJhor2.jpg" alt="Maach Jhor" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">PS:</span> Here <span style="font-weight: bold;">Machli</span> is the <span style="font-style: italic;">fish</span> & <span style="font-weight: bold;">Baat</span> is the <span style="font-style: italic;">rice</span>...... Hence the name <span style="font-weight: bold;">Maach Baat</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 0, 0);font-family:georgia;" >TOFA (<span style="font-style: italic;">Token Of Admiration</span>):</span><br /><br />A Thofa (थोफा, gift) - token of Appreciation, to all those who share their love on my miniscule efforts, to write my heart up....... Year coming to an end....let us all celebrate, the goodness, together.........................<br /><br />It means a lot...... Sometimes gets very touchy, with some similar moments & emotions being shared & mentioned, in your words of appreciations........<br /><br />Mostly.... for all those love & wishes showered on my mom, on her Birthday......... I did not know how else, could I show my gratitude...... Hence made this piece for all my readers.............<br /><br />"And this <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Blogfare </span>goes to!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!...............................******************"<br />Oooops!!!! I lost Count........<br /><br />Kindly accept it...... ALL!!!!!!!!<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/Cheerreading-1.jpg" alt="Cheer Readers" height="264" width="364" /></p>ACCEPT the CHEERS & SHARE THEM TOO............ Cheerfully!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :-)<br /><br />Until we meet next, KEEP THE FAITH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!<br /><br /><br /><b><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/224/FB86AADF240FA45239B7963BAE4F9753.png" style="border: 0pt none ! important; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial;" /></a></b>Ashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12039911212235165959noreply@blogger.com31tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1541814323693333064.post-37539330049435360592009-12-11T12:15:00.021+05:302009-12-11T18:09:41.545+05:30MY DESSERT'ed LIFE!!!! To Maa....On Her Birthday!!!!<p style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="color: rgb(255, 153, 255);" class="ma">"A mother in your life makes your life dessert 'ed & out of your life makes it deserted...." </span><span class="ma">-</span><span class="ma"> <span style="font-style: italic;">Ash...</span></span></p>I know it's been days since I've posted..... I have not been able to post regularly as earlier....That's because of my health issues...I've not been preparing anything much, in my kitchen, with that same zeal.... But still, I know, that doesn't stop us from living....I gotcha do something.... I think the last I posted was by the end of November....It's past 10 days of this new month....& it is the end of the year already...... Time Fly's.... You don't get to know it, too.... It feels like just yesterday we came back home, from my mom's place after welcoming the New Year.....scared till I reached home, of the guys on the street or rather the hooligans, just bullying around for their so called FUN! And it comes as a shock, that the year has passed....Time to welcome another new year with some new wish list & some old to carry forward.<br /><br />I don't understand where we are all heading towards, in such a Zooooooooooom!<br />Is it <span style="font-weight: bold;">2012</span> ????????????? The so called destructive year.....As I have heard, few yester years were also predicted to be destructive....But though one can say that those forecasts or predictions have not come true, I personally see the world climbing every step towards it....All the unforeseen incidents, the virus in the air, the miss happenings around.... Predicts <span style="font-weight: bold;">'that'</span> for sure...... With the inhabitants of this world, moving towards destruction in their deeds, words & thoughts, we are all heading there..... no doubts.....DESTRUCTION! <span style="font-weight: bold;">The 'D' day</span>.......<br /><br />In a way good... I personally see no end to all this..other than the <span style="font-weight: bold;">'D'</span> word.... of the world.... Let a new era begin... where living beings start from scratch, start with small struggles to make their place, start with good thoughts.... Again a Vicious circle, where the phase appears to be good at first view, but in actual is fallacious..... Good to Bad..... Construction to Destruction..... All that starts has to end somewhere..... Because Good & Evil are the two faces of the same coin.... they go hand in hand.....<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Why don't human beings think before they act???? Why don't they see the wrong in what they are all doing???? Any ways there is no point in me pondering over it...... Things have gone way back, out of hands..... So the time you have in hands, utilize it to the fullest....Smile & make others around u smile!!!! Live all those happy moments u can with your near & dear ones..... Because, that is all that matters, at the end of the day....</span><br /><br />Speaking about the happy moments, I had one such moment just recently...It was my mom's birthday..... YAY!<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">A time to celebrate the Birth of that woman, who was meant to mother me, by destiny.....</span><br /><br />I wished, she celebrated many more birthdays, with her family, forever.....I cannot imagine my life without her.... The thought always scares me & brings tears to my eyes.... My heart feels heavy with the thoughts..... & I pray to God, " never make me miss her, in my life, forever".....<br /><br />There is a lot of SOLACE.... in that very word...MOTHER!!!!!!!!! And all mothers look alike.... They are no different from the other..... Their very presence in our lives, give us all the strength & courage, we require.....<br /><span class="ma"><br /></span><span class="ma">As usual, I indulged myself in preparing a lovely card for her... I got all my greets paraphernalia out of the box or rather out of my drawer, & started outlining a thought & theme in my mind.... Hmmm...... there it came as a breath of fresh air, from my window......<br /><br />The thought of an open window (<span style="font-style: italic;">as a metaphor</span>), with enough light & ventilation... like she is in my LIFE!!!! with gifts & wishes being showered on her, through care & devotion..... That's it, could not wait longer & got into seeing it coming true..... I know & understand that - <span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-weight: bold;">“No gift to your mother can ever equal her gift to you - life”</span>..................<br /><br />And Voila!!!!!! Here it was.......what I could transform my thoughts into.....<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/GREETING%20CARDS/Birthday1.jpg" alt="Happy B'day MOM" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/GREETING%20CARDS/Birthday3.jpg" alt="Happy B'day MOM" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/GREETING%20CARDS/Birthday2.jpg" alt="Happy B'day MOM" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/GREETING%20CARDS/Birthday4.jpg" alt="Happy B'day MOM" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/GREETING%20CARDS/Birthday5.jpg" alt="Happy B'day MOM" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/GREETING%20CARDS/Birthday6.jpg" alt="Happy B'day MOM" height="580" width="420" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/GREETING%20CARDS/Birthday7.jpg" alt="Happy B'day MOM" height="580" width="420" /></p>I wished her over the phone, by morning, & we were supposed to meet up at her place....for a relaxed after noon lunch.... but I was late.... after winding up with all that me & Kuku, were held up with, I made it to her place by 2:00 pm.<br /><br />My dad was pissed off with me, as usual.... But yes, it was my fault too...this time.... I forgot that he had to have his lunch earlier or rather on time, as he had been diagnosed with Diabetes...... He finds it hard to withstand his hunger pangs for long... He has to take his daily dosage of meds too... So I am sorry for that delay..... May be Yes, I could have informed him, before hand that I would be late, but in vain.... It totally went out of my mind.... I have tied a knot, with that reminder, in my mind.....<br /><br />That's Amma / Maa..... smiling for my snap shot...... SMILE PLEASE!!!!!!! Click!!**<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/GREETING%20CARDS/BirthdayMom.jpg" alt="Happy B'day MOM" height="420" width="580" /></p>We had planned to go far, for lunch.... to the Tiffanys.... That's a favorite place of dad.... He loves the relaxed buffet lunch there, with a glass of beer or I don know what!!!! to sip on...... But since we were late to head to that place, we made it to a restaurant near by at Seshadripuram..... It was also quite close to all our hearts as that was the place, we frequented, as kids, with family of course...... It had changed totally but we were happy & nostalgic with the preps pleasing our palates...... My favorite Chilli Chicken, was totally yum! We tried something called as Hari Dhaniya Chicken, which was very catchy, with its taste.....Loved it with the butter naan, we ordered.... And lunch is not complete without rice....hence came the ghee rice, onto our table.... SPLENDID!!!!! RICH!!!!! AROMATIC!!!! was the consistency of the ingredients in it....... Very grainy & yummy.......<br /><br />And then finally came the <span style="font-weight: bold;">"I scream...U scream....Both scream For Ice Cream" </span>....<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/GREETING%20CARDS/IScream.jpg" alt="Happy B'day MOM" height="420" width="580" /></p>But frankly speaking, did not like it..... As it neither had the look nor the taste of an original Butter Scotch ice cream..... Hmmmmmmmmm......... That was the end of our lunch saga.....<br /><br />Then we returned back home & was with dad, mom & sis in-law, for sometime & left to my home...... And gave Kuku a detailed report of my Funday! Hence spent the 4th of December......<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">FEW NEWBIES IN MY BLOGFARES:</span><br /><br />And mention of thanks for the few '<span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">passed on appreciations</span>', some of which I did not have.......New! New! New! ;-)<br /><br />I would love to thank Sushma Mallya from <a href="http://authenticfooddelights.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-style: italic;">Authentic Food Delight</span>s</a>, for the awards she passed on........<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/Beautifulbloggeraward.jpg" alt="Beautiful Blogger" height="200" width="200" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/butterflyaward.jpg" alt="Butterfly" height="200" width="166" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/Bloggeraward2009.jpg" alt="2009 blogger=" height="337" width="297" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/bsbaward.gif" alt="Yummilicious" height="154" width="200" /></p><br /><br />I would also love to thank Shailaja from Sailaja Kitchen & Sarah Naveen from Vazhayila! , for passing on these cuties too.....<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/Butterfliesinspiration.jpg" alt="Butterfly Inspiration" height="166" width="166" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/smartchef_award_viki.gif" alt="Beautiful Blogger" height="268" width="274" /></p><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 0, 0);"><br />I AM A WINNIE WON WON WINNER!!!!!!!!!!!</span> <br />(<span style="font-style: italic;">applauds............. & thank yous.......</span>. )<br /><br />And yes <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Last but not the least</span>....... I won, at the <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://janemdesign.blogspot.com/2009/11/i-have-for-you-pleasant-surprise.html">Give Away contest</a> held by Jane from<br /><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://janemdesign.blogspot.com/2009/12/congratulations-giveaway-winners.html"></a><a href="http://janemdesign.blogspot.com/">Jane Melinina Designs .</a><br /><br />I loved the lady bugs, but still I love the one that I've won too......<a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://janemdesign.blogspot.com/2009/12/congratulations-giveaway-winners.html">The Funny Birds Decal</a>.... Thanks a Ton, Jane!!!!!<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/CONTESTS%20_%20%20LOGOS/Funnybirdsdecalssmall.jpg" alt="Funny Birds Decal=" 300="" width="400" /></p>That is simply not it.... She has posted another <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://janemdesign.blogspot.com/2009/12/great-giveaway.html">Great Giveaway</a>!!!!!! That means another chance I stand to win......<span style="font-weight: bold;">Yuppie!!!!!!!!!!!!!!</span><br />"Another Giveaway....... My Way....." LOL! But yes, I would love to.... Anyone would... It makes u realize that <span style="font-style: italic;">few small dreams... DO COME TRUE!!!! </span><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/CONTESTS%20_%20%20LOGOS/gr8giveaway.jpg" alt="Give Away" height="152" width="400" /></p>And this time it is my favorite Moon Wall Decal..... I have always wanted this.... Can say desperately wanted....... Simply because of its feel......<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/CONTESTS%20_%20%20LOGOS/MoonWallDecal.jpg" alt="Moon Wall" height="250" width="250" /></p><br />Those love birds in the moon light..... Are very romantic....Just like me & my kuku....<br /><br />For me, it would forever be, my favorite MOON WALL DECAL STICKER...for the simple reason that, I would only choose my Love forever & I very much see it alive in this sticker.... it resembles us....Love Birds Forever!!!! I see my 15 years of Love & affection in them..... I would love it on my bedroom wall.... that portrays our love for each other..... The very thought makes me emotional, shy & on the ninth cloud.....<br /><br />Thanking One & All....... Happy Blogging!!!!! Happy Celebrations!!!!!<br /><br />KEEP THE FAITH.....................<br /><br /><br /><b><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/224/FB86AADF240FA45239B7963BAE4F9753.png" style="border: 0pt none ! important; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial;" /></a></b>Ashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12039911212235165959noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1541814323693333064.post-62845295027859199602009-11-29T14:23:00.026+05:302009-12-08T00:36:50.211+05:30DAL BHARKE POORI ALOO PAANI Ke Saath(Lentil Stuffed Indian Bread With Thin Gravied Aloo & A Small ThanksGiving!!!)<p>Bihari Cuisine involves a lot of stuffed edibles, be it a simple Kachori to some Litti Choka..... From Paratas to Samosas..... or even gravies for that matter.....like stuffed karela, stuffed pattal, kofte, etc., to mention a few, unlike my Mangalorean cuisine. The delectable 's in the name of stuffed preps, at Mangalore, are very few like Arisina Ele Hittu & the <a href="http://asha-oceanichope.blogspot.com/2009/10/celebrate-diwali-with-diwali-delicacies.html"><span style="font-style: italic;">Karajjikai</span></a>.... I am totally enthralled by my <span style="font-weight: bold;">"Delicacies in - Law"</span>....I tell my hubby often " Tum log kuch bhi, kahin par bhi, kisi cheez mein bhi, bharke bana lethe ho " (" तुम लोग कुछ भी, कहीं पर भी, किसी चीज़ में भी, <span>भरके</span> बना लेथे हो ") <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Meaning</span> - "Here peeps stuff anything & everything, wherever & in whatever they choose to & prepare stuffs "as far as food is concerned ...... ;-) LOL...</p><br />And that is very true too..... I'm always surprised by the Bihari preps I learn about. Sheerly Talented, I must admit.......... HATS OFF to all Biharis!!!!!<br /><br />I personally enjoy & love them too, but very rich compared to our simple & plain Mangalorean delectable 's. So I would love to share one such stuffed, festive prep from my<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">"Delicacies in - Law" !!!!!!!!!</span> That is the Dal bharke Poori..............<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/DalPoori3.jpg" alt="Dal Poori" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">For The Dough</span><br /><br />Ingredients:<br /><br />Wheat Flour (Atta) - 1/2 kg<br />Salt to Taste<br />Oil - 6 tsp<br />Ajwain + Mangrela (Carom Seeds or Oma + Black Sesame Seeds) - 1 tsp ( I keep a mix of both)<br />Water as required<br /><br />Method:<br /><br />Mix all the above ingredients except water, well... for minimum 5 minutes, so that the mix blends well & smooth enough that u can dust it from your hand....Now add enough water to knead the flour mix into a smooth but firm dough... Keep aside covered for half an hour.<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/DalPoori14.jpg" alt="Dal Poori" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Stuffing</span><br /><br />Ingredients:<br /><br />Bengal Gram Dal (Chana Dal or the kernels of split Black Chick Peas) - 1 cup<br />Water - 4 cups<br />Salt to Taste<br />Turmeric Powder - 1/4 tsp<br />Oil - 3 tbsp<br />Cumin Seeds (jeera) - 1 tsp<br />Green Chilli - 3, finely chopped<br />Onion - 1 medium, finely chopped<br />Turmeric Powder - a pinch (since already added )<br />Red Chilli Powder - 1/4 tsp<br />Coriander Powder - 1/4 tsp<br />Kitchen King Masala - 1/4 tsp<br />Coriander Leaves - 2 tsp, finely chopped<br /><br />Method:<br /><br />Pressure cook the dal with water, salt & turmeric powder for 5 whistle, as it takes longer for the chana dal to get cooked.... The dal should be cooked enough to get a thick mash.... not very mushy with water in it.... Once cooked, kindly drain the extra water..... Now mash the dal & keep aside...<br /><br />Heat oil in a wok or deep bottomed vessel & add jeera & allow it to splutter. Now add green chilli & stir fry & then add chopped onions & fry till translucent. Now add all the masala powders & stir fry further for 2 minutes.. Then add the mashed dal & mix well. Stir fry this mixture until all the water gets evaporated... Now add the chopped coriander leaves & mix. Transfer this mixture into a bowl.<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/DalPoori5.jpg" alt="Dal Poori" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Dal Stuffed Poori</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;">(</span><span style="font-weight: bold;">दाल</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">भरके</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">पूरी</span><span style="font-weight: bold;">)</span><br /><br />Make small lemon sized balls of the dough & shape these balls into nice small katoris... or bowls.<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/DalPoori12.jpg" alt="Dal Poori" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><br />Now fill small amounts of the dal mixture into these bowl shaped dough ....<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/DalPoori11.jpg" alt="Dal Poori" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />And cover to seal it firmly, with much care.... to avoid the mixture from making its way through the dough as that would not only spoil the shape but would also leave the oil for frying, adulterated & tainted.<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/DalPoori13.jpg" alt="Dal Poori" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />Now roll these stuffed & flattened balls with the help of a rolling pin..... Then leave the rolled poori (bread) into the oil & deep fry till golden..... let it puff on both the sides..... The puff would not be as much as a plain poori because of the stuffing..... Once the pooris are done, golden in color...transfer them onto an absorbent paper...<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/DalPoori6.jpg" alt="Dal Poori" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />Similarly continue the process with the rest of the dough....<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/DalPoori.jpg" alt="Dal Poori" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />Can be served with plain tomato sauce or ketchup or any veg or non veg gravy to accompany with...... As I had not planned anything till then, I thought of a simple Potato gravy.... called ALOO PAANI...<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/DalPoori1.jpg" alt="Dal Poori" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Aloo Paani</span> (<span style="font-weight: bold;">आलू पानी</span>)<br /><br />Ingredients:<br /><br />Potato - 4 medium, peeled & washed<br />Onion - 1 medium, finely sliced<br />Tomato - 2, finely chopped<br />Ginger Garlic Paste - 1 tsp<br />Turmeric Powder - 1/2 tsp<br />Red Chilli Powder - 1 1/2 tsp<br />Cumin Powder - 2 tsp<br />Coriander Powder - 2 tsp<br />Garam Masala Powder - 2 tsp<br />Kitchen King Masala - 2 tsp<br />Salt to Taste<br />Water - 2 cups or more for the watery consistency<br />Oil - 4 tbsp<br />Coriander Leaves - 2 tsp, finely chopped<br /><br />Method:<br /><br />Boil the Potatoes, cut into cubes & keep aside. Heat oil in a wok or a deep bottomed vessel. Now add chopped onions & fry till translucent. Now add tomatoes & stir fry for 5 minutes, on low flame. Now add ginger garlic paste & saute` for a minute. Now add all the masala powders & stir fry for 3 - 4 minutes or till the oil separates. In case if the mixture turns dry, add little amount of water & mix well. The masala should blend well in water. Now add the cooked & cubed potatoes. Stir fry for 2 - 3 minutes, carefully so as to avoid the potatoes from falling apart. Now add good amount of water to get a thin gravy, & bring it to boil. Cook it covered for 20 minutes on low flame...<br /><br />When done, garnish with chopped coriander leaves...which I forgot to.... Hmmmm.....<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/DalPoori2.jpg" alt="Dal Poori" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />Now serve the above made Dal stuffed pooris with the hot Aloo Paani & a bowl of freshly prepared <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://asha-oceanichope.blogspot.com/2009/10/rice-kheer-akki-payasa-rice-pudding.html">Rice Kheer</a> (खीर) to complete the festive spread. Festive because, this is specially prepared as a prasad (divine food), for the poojas conducted at home, especially <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://asha-oceanichope.blogspot.com/2009/08/auspicious-day-of-my-life.html">Theej</a>....while we break our severe fasting of a day...... It is divine, then, as we really see light after having this, in the darkness caused due to the fast........<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/DalPoori10.jpg" alt="Dal Poori" height="420" width="580" /></p>These pooris simply taste yum with the kheer to accompany with..... Festive Divinity!!!<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/DalPoori4.jpg" alt="Dal Poori" height="420" width="580" /></p><span style="font-weight: bold;">Wanna Bite??????</span><br />Open Your Mouth & this piece goes in..............................hmmmm!!!! Yum! Yum! Is it not??????<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">I knew!!!!!!!!!!</span><br /><br /><p>This Divine Dal Poori is on its way to EC's, <span style="font-weight: bold;">WYF:Specialty food event announcement</span> at <a href="http://simpleindianfood.blogspot.com/2009/11/wyfspecialty-food-event-announcement.html">Simple Indian Food</a><br /></p><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/CONTESTS%20_%20%20LOGOS/logo.jpg" height="198" width="195" /></p>along with the below mentioned<br /><br /><p></p><p><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://asha-oceanichope.blogspot.com/2009/07/halasina-hannu-hittujackfruit.html">Halasina Hannina Hittu.. (Jack Fruit Dumpling)</a></p><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/ReadyHittu.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></p><p>As suggested by Suma Gandlur, I am also sending my Dal Poori to : Srivalli's <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://cooking4allseasons.blogspot.com/2009/11/announcing-my-legume-love-affair.html?utm_source=feedburn%20%20er&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Cooking4AllSeasons+%28Cooking+4+all+Seasons%29">My Legume Love Affair</a>..... which is hosted by <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://thewellseasonedcook.blogspot.com/2008/09/my-legume-love-affair-host-lineup.html">A Well Seasoned Cook</a> - Susan.</p><p>Thank You Suma for letting me know about this event.......<br /></p><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Dasvidaniya!!!!!!!</span><br /><br />Now.... Time for Thanks Giving........belated Of course!!!!)<br /><br />Thank You Esai Selvi from <a href="http://mykitchenrecepies.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-style: italic;">My Kitchen</span></a> for this lovely butterfly award, for I certainly deserve it, not sure my blog, but me, Yes! .... Since childhood, one of my mamas called me "Chitte" meaning Butterfly, in Kannada. As it is a very cute piece, I simply loved it.<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/butterflyaward.jpg" alt="Butterfly" height="200" width="166" /></p><br />And Thank You Rohini from <a href="http://curriesandspices.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-style: italic;">Curries & Spices</span></a>, Indu from <a href="http://kattameethatheeka.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-style: italic;">Kitchen Queen</span></a> & Esai Selvi again from <a href="http://mykitchenrecepies.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-style: italic;">My Kitchen</span></a> for passing on this Bold 'n' Gold Award......<br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/Bloggeraward2009.jpg" alt="2009 blogger" height="337" width="297" /></p><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Jaago Bhaarath Jaago:</span></span><br /><br />As I punched in these words for my post, I heard lovely music being played, from my living room, for quite a long time.... Went, to check it out.... My hubby was watching his favorite News Channel... The NDTV.... which aired, an One Hour Event, Live, called "A Nation In Solidarity Against Terror" organized in our national capital's India Gate.<br /><br />The event, intended to express the nation's solidarity against terror.....Oh! Yes!<br /><br />The date is symbolic to the Mumbai Terror Attacks..... I sincerely "feel" for those who lost their beloveds, their only bread earner & their only reason to live, in this gruesome terror attack.. A year passed..... again in terror.....wondering if our folks were safe out of home, but still keeping our calm, our fingers crossed, thought that "all was well".<br /><br />This event kindled a thought in me as to - if it was not for 'Mumbai & its Landmarks', had it occurred elsewhere in some remote area, would they have conducted such events???? If Yes, why have I not heard of any such events held in areas which faced similar atrocities???? (forget being aired on TV, with celebs, politicians & sports person making their presence felt....)<br /><br />Why is this attack blown out of proportion to such an extent???? Would such events give solace to the families of the Martyrs who shed their blood, fighting this attack, to the families of those innocent victims of this horrendous attack or to the families of those brave souls, who stood by, to lend their support in some way or the other & lost something in return???? Would they find solace in such events held?????<br /><br />Speaking of solidarity against terror, according to me none, who is "HUMAN" would ever talk for it... If the solidarity of the nation was the concern, people in authority would have made arrangements to make the apt & adequate compensations, availing, to the BRAVE families, who deserved it....They would have empathized their feelings... & not made them wait for a year, for the compensations to realize. Instead, arrangements are made to conduct events, with celebs & politicians, ready with their "FOREVER" heard speeches, in the name of NATION AGAINST Terror..... Looks like no events can be held in this country, without the monotonous presence of the so called "CELEBS", "SUPER STARS", "HEROES"...... May be it is a habit now.....<br /><br />May be compensations would be realized only in their fantasies as may be even this time, just words of promise & hope, remembering the attacks & forgotten till next year, same date..... as ever..........<br /><br />Irony of Solidarity......<br /><br />Mean while I even remembered a mail that was doing the rounds then....<br /><br />The subject being How Fair Is This???? & dated Thu, 4 Dec 2008 6:19 pm....<br /><br />I hereby paste the content of the mail below.......without changing even a character in it..... It just gets me pondering over the plight of our People in Power & the direction they are heading towards.......<span style=";font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-size:12;"><br /><br /></span></span> <p><span style="color: rgb(0, 66, 0);font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" ><span style="color: rgb(0, 66, 0);font-size:13;" >An Olympic shooter wins Gold (Only a game) & Government </span></span><span style="color: rgb(0, 51, 0);font-size:130%;" ><span style="color: rgb(0, 51, 0);font-size:13;" >gives him more than 3 Crores</span></span><br /><br /><img src="http://webmail.aol.com/29202/aim-2/en-in/mail/get-attachment.aspx?uid=1.26214125&folder=SANDHYA&partId=5" height="204" width="199" /></p> <span style="color: rgb(51, 153, 102);font-family:Times New Roman;font-size:130%;" ><span style="color: rgb(51, 153, 102);font-size:13;" ><br /></span></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 153, 102);"><span style="color: rgb(51, 153, 102);">Rs. 1 crore cash award by State Government of Punjab.<br />Rs. 2 lakh cash award by Shiromani Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee<br />Rs. 25 lakh cash award by the Board of Control for Cricket in IndiaRs. 15 lakh money award by Steel </span></span><a target="_blank" href="http://living.oneindia.in/celebrity/sports/2008/abhinav-bindra-biography-180908.html"><span style="color: rgb(51, 153, 102);font-family:Comic Sans MS;font-size:78%;" ><span style="color: rgb(51, 153, 102);font-family:'Comic Sans MS';font-size:7;" >Ministry</span></span></a><span style="color: rgb(51, 153, 102);"><span style="color: rgb(51, 153, 102);"> of India<br />A free lifetime railway pass by the Railway Ministry of India<br />Rs. 10 lakh cash award by Chief Minister of Maharashtra state<br />Rs. 5 lakh cash award by State Government of Orissa<br />Rs. 1.5 Crore by L N Mittal, Arcelor Mittal<br />Rs. 10 lakh cash award by the State Government of Karnataka<br />Rs. 11 lakh cash award by the State Government of Bihar. The Patna Indoor Stadium will be renamed after Abhinav Bindra.<br />Rs. 1 lakh cash award by the State Government of Chhattisgarh<br />Rs. 25 lakh cash award by the State Government of Haryana.<br />Rs. 5 lakh cash award by M. Karunanidhi, the chief minister of Tamil Nadu<br />A Gold medal by the State Govt. of Kerala.</span></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 153, 102);font-size:130%;" ><span style="color: rgb(51, 153, 102);font-size:13;" ><br /></span></span><span style="color: rgb(0, 66, 0);font-size:130%;" ><span style="color: rgb(0, 66, 0);font-size:13;" ></span></span><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 66, 0);font-size:130%;" ><span style="color: rgb(0, 66, 0);font-size:13;" >.</span></span> <span style="color: rgb(0, 66, 0);font-size:130%;" ><span style="color: rgb(0, 66, 0);font-size:13;" ><br />.</span></span> <span style="color: rgb(0, 66, 0);font-size:130%;" ><span style="color: rgb(0, 66, 0);font-size:13;" ><br />.</span></span> <span style="color: rgb(0, 66, 0);font-size:130%;" ><span style="color: rgb(0, 66, 0);font-size:13;" ><br />.</span></span><span style="color: rgb(0, 66, 0);font-size:130%;" ><span style="color: rgb(0, 66, 0);font-size:13;" ></span></span><span style="color: rgb(0, 66, 0);font-size:130%;" ><span style="color: rgb(0, 66, 0);font-size:13;" ></span></span><span style="color: rgb(0, 66, 0);font-size:130%;" ><span style="color: rgb(0, 66, 0);font-size:13;" ></span></span><span style="color: rgb(0, 66, 0);font-size:130%;" ><span style="color: rgb(0, 66, 0);font-size:13;" ><br />Another Shooter dies, fighting with terrorists (Saving our country and our live) & government pays his family 5 lakhs.</span></span><br /><br /><img src="http://webmail.aol.com/29202/aim-2/en-in/mail/get-attachment.aspx?uid=1.26214125&folder=SANDHYA&partId=4" border="0" height="313" width="500" /><span style="color: rgb(0, 66, 0);font-size:130%;" ><span style="color: rgb(0, 66, 0);font-size:13;" ><br /><br />Really great!!!!!!!!!!! Hats off to India!!!!!!!!!!!!!</span></span> <span style="color: rgb(0, 66, 0);font-size:130%;" ><span style="color: rgb(0, 66, 0);font-size:13;" ><br /><br />Please forward to all </span></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 153);"><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 153);"><br /></span></span><br />Today watching that event, pissed me off to an extent that, it got me writing & venting........... It gets tears rolling down my cheeks..... Is that a brave soul worth of????????????<br /><br />All said & done, the performance & music of Violin maestro - L Subramaniam & his group was totally mesmerizing..... That certainly would have given solace to the hurt souls..... That was something out of the world.....<br /><br /><br />Last BUT CERTAINLY not the Least..... Piece of Info.....<br /><br />I would like to thank Tina from <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://tinaramsey.blogspot.com/">In The Garden</a>, for that lovely 'note'd comment, she left on my previous post...(<a href="http://asha-oceanichope.blogspot.com/2009/11/mugs-cup-t-s-my-proud-collections-first.html"><span style="font-style: italic;">My Proud Collection</span></a>). Reading it made me feel good & brought a smile on my face & my hubby's. The aftertaste of the 'love' shared still lingers in my smile.....<br /><br /><br />So, kindly accept it Tina, It's just to pass on my smile to you.....<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/Labels%20Buttons/smile1.jpg" alt="SMILE" height="200" width="200" /></p><br />Happy Celebrations to one & all!!!!!!!!!! Happy Blogging!!!!!!!!<br /><br />KEEP THE FAITH!!!!!!!<br /><br /><br /><b><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/224/FB86AADF240FA45239B7963BAE4F9753.png" style="border: 0pt none ! important; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial;" /></a></b>Ashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12039911212235165959noreply@blogger.com32tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1541814323693333064.post-43489179725442549382009-11-15T23:26:00.029+05:302009-11-19T13:12:23.948+05:30MUGS & CUP "T" s!!!!!!! ( My Proud Collections) & First TWO MILESTONES OF MY LIFE IN BLOGGYWOOD!!!!!<p>During my childhood days, we used the steel tumblers or stainless steel glasses for all drinking purposes..... Be it water, juice "because we as kids would drop & break 'the' drinking glasses", coffee, tea, etc., etc., Both at Mangalore as well as Bangalore.... As we grew up...we got to drink our juices & shakes in 'Glass' glasses. Still we generally had our daily beverages, hot or cold, in steel glasses only.....</p>We got to drink hot beverages in these designed ceramic cups only after college.... & that too with guests visiting us..... not otherwise... But now after wedding the practice has changed....We use the respective cups, glass or mugs for respective beverages.... Funny!!!! I feel now.... thinking, I drank all the drinking stuff in a steel glass..... Ewww!!!!!<br /><br />Now Oh! I am in love with all of these..... I fantasize them so much that I love owning them... all those nice pieces that I come across.... I want them to adorn my shelves.....<br /><br />As it had been quite some time since I posted & there was no recipe that was extra ordinarily exclusive.... for, right now I've all simple recipes in my drafts.... I thought what else could I post about.....<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">While I drank my evening Tea, my brain struck one!!!!!!! & this thought ran down....Hickory, dickory, dock.... My eyes ran up the clock..... </span>And I thought I had to hurry with the relevant pics for my post....<br /><br />These are my favorite evening Tea Mugs..... Sip on it relaxing on Rugs..... just the two of us with lots of Hugs.....<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/MUGS%20CUPS/MyMugs15.jpg" alt="Hug Mugs" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />Hence posting this write up.....so as to remember my mugs & cups, even when I'm old, & even when they are not there..... if broken & thrown into a bin..... Hmmmm...........Because many of them (mugs & cups) are already deceased.... <span style="font-style: italic;">SO I WOULD DEDICATE THIS POST TO ALL MY DECEASED CUPS & MUGS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!Awesome Thought!!!!!!!!!LOL!!!!<br /></span>I will never be able to forget my beloved cups & mugs...... those that I broke or my hubby or even my maids for that matter....HA!<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/MUGS%20CUPS/MyMugs13.jpg" alt="Hug Mugs" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />But not all, I have here, as there is no enough space to display them.... Few are still up the attic cabinet, unpacked........ May be some day when I make space for them, I will flaunt them here.....& 'Mortalize' them too.....My Beloved cups & mugs would still be remembered even after I'm gone..... LONG LIVE my MUGS & CUPS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!<br /><br />Well as a child the only mug I knew was the one used for all bathroom purposes..... But now it has emerged to be an exclusive possession....for "drinking" purposes too.........<br /><br />My hubby just prepared a cup of tea for me as I am writing this........ Yum it was.... LOVE HIM!!!!<br /><br /><br />Ok..... Now these are my favorite "cup teas" as they are popularly called in Bihar..... I loved them the very first time I tasted tea in them.....during my first visit to Bodh Gaya by train... the raw scent of mud (सौंदी सौंदी खुशबू) plus the aroma of tea leaves..... Hmmmmmmmm.........<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/MUGS%20CUPS/kulhads.jpg" alt="Hug Mugs" height="125" width="236" /><br /><br /><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/MUGS%20CUPS/bannedplasticcups_3184.jpg" alt="Hug Mugs" height="34" width="156" /><br /><br /><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/MUGS%20CUPS/kulhad.jpg" alt="Hug Mugs" height="193" width="265" /></p><br /><br />Very raw, earthen cups also called as Kulhads (disposable cups made of clay).... One drawback I noticed was, since the cups are raw, it tends to absorb the tea...which in turn reduces the quantity in the cup..... I went hunting to buy these cups & found the below in one of the shops & without second thought, bought some 3 different sets..... I gifted one set to mom & kept the rest for myself.....<br /><br />These are well polished & custom made to suit our city lives.... to suit the microwave heating.....The look gives that extra zing, when u serve tea to your guests..... & I love that....!!!!! So these are the two kinds...that I own...<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/MUGS%20CUPS/MyMugs10.jpg" alt="Hug Mugs" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/MUGS%20CUPS/MyMugs9.jpg" alt="Hug Mugs" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />My ceramic tea spoon.... just one left of a lovely pair.... My hubby masters the art of breaking most of my kitchen appliances. He just attempts something else & in the process my stuffs around are termed "DEAD". Oh!!!! My!!!! I taunt him about it always..... that "please do not indulge much in my kitchen, I want my belongings intact" ROFL!!!!!<br /><br />It is really cute & small.... I like the shape & feel of it....<br /><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/MUGS%20CUPS/MySweetspoon.jpg" alt="Tspn" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />Though he has broken many, and as he still understands my love for it..... he bought me these lovely Coffee Day Mugs on this <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://asha-oceanichope.blogspot.com/2009/08/day-i-would-treasure-my-entire-life.html">Birthday</a>.... It was a cute gesture of love.... accompanied by flowers & my favorite chocolate fantasy..... It was a memorable birthday, indeed.... So extra love & admiration for these mugs.....<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/MUGS%20CUPS/MyMugs1.jpg" alt="Hug Mugs" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/MUGS%20CUPS/MyMugs2.jpg" alt="Hug Mugs" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/MUGS%20CUPS/MyMugs8.jpg" alt="Hug Mugs" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/MUGS%20CUPS/MyMugs3.jpg" alt="Hug Mugs" height="420" width="580" /></p>These are my first Coffee Day Mugs.... I love them... When we have our coffees there at Coffee Day, they serve us with hot Cappuccino, in the white version of these cups... Hence I told Kuku, that I wanted the Black versions as they are not that 'common'..... & Yes! BLACK IS BEAUTIFUL............ But I have never used them at home.... The quantity that we prepare at home or rather the amount of tea or coffee that we both drink is so little, that as soon as I pour the beverage into these cups, it would turn cold... & I love cold coffee only when it is from Coffee Day & not otherwise....<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/MUGS%20CUPS/MyMugs4.jpg" alt="Hug Mugs" height="420" width="580" /></p>Haan! These cups are one of my favorites too....for two reasons.... one because my mom got these for me from Italy, during her Europe tour.... She also got me my first <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.ninaricci.com/NinaRicci_Parfums/html/en/nina-ricci-perfumes/love-in-paris.php">Love In Paris by Nina Ricci </a>..... That gesture meant a lot to me.... Though I was not with her to accompany her... she still remembered my love for mugs & she got me that souvenier...... She also got me some lovely key chains & a small chweet clutch kinda purse to treasure my coins..... hmmm!!! & a face mirror too..... I still have them...never used any one of them for I did not want them to be history soon.... treasured for my daughter, I guess.... lemme see......;-)<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/MUGS%20CUPS/MyMugs5.jpg" alt="Hug Mugs" height="420" width="580" /></p>Oh! I simply love these mugs.... aren't they lovely?????? I would not be able to use them too for sure.... may be till I finish my beverage, the thought would be that it would fall off, because of its shape...... <span style="font-style: italic;"><br /><br />Leaning Tower of Pisa</span>, u c!!!!!!!! <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;"><br /><br />ALL LEANING IN ITALICS...... MY TEA OR COFFEE TOO!!!!!!!!!</span> <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"> ;-)</span><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/MUGS%20CUPS/MyMugs6.jpg" alt="Hug Mugs" height="420" width="580" /></p><br />The Made for Eachother mug, was my first mug experience..... The first mug I bought for my Kuku.... & that was on our first anniversary of our dating..... Feb 14, 1994.... he had proposed to me.... & I gifted him this mug on Feb 14, 1995...... So this is also emotionally attached to me... Part of my love life.... part of my entire life....<br /><br />And I think I gifted Kuku the 'Worlds Best Sweetheart' mug on his birthday... may be 2004.... I was on my first job then..... I always bought him something or the other.... I loved to surprise him & forever would..... Hmmmmm...... I love surprises too....... ;-p<br /><br />And those two black mugs are also from coffee day..... Kuku gave them to me as a surprise.... some day.... Casually........<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/MUGS%20CUPS/MyMugs7.jpg" alt="Hug Mugs" height="420" width="580" /></p><br />Forget the glasses behind.... Nope!!!! how can we forget them.... I drink my juices, shakes & soft drinks in them now, after the so called 'Steel Glass Saga'........<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/MUGS%20CUPS/MyMugs11.jpg" alt="Hug Mugs" height="420" width="580" /></p>And this Beer mug.... I think I bought this, from Forum, Kormangla,Bangalore..... I liked its uniqueness.... It is a bamboo product.....good to look at.... And a Big Mug too..... holding it in my hand made me feel, "<span style="font-weight: bold;">high</span>" like a Historic American Cowboy, feels over his mug with whatever!!!! in it.....<br /><br />It is a part of my "Beers To You" award too......<br />Beers to One & All!!!!!!!!!<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/MUGS%20CUPS/MyMugs14.jpg" alt="Hug Mugs" height="580" width="420" /></p>Last but certainly not the least......... My favorites...... My Mortar & Pestle...... I'm crazy of these too... May be I'm crazy of anything & everything unique, on this earth...... I use the marble one, sometimes to crush the cardamoms, but the wooden one, never used till date.... It is just there to add to my pride, to adorn my shelf.... The name it self is so very ....... <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mortar_and_pestle">Mortar & Pestle</a>.... God knows who termed them so.... The Etymology says it's derived from some classical terms....Good!!!! And I own just two....<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/MUGS%20CUPS/MyMugs12.jpg" alt="Mortar & Pestle" height="420" width="580" /></p>I still own these pieces... which are so nice & dear to me... I feel proud of them.....<br /><br />And YAY!!!!!!!!!!!!! TWO MILESTONES!!!!!!!!!!!!<br /><br />One, this is my 75th post of my blog...... My <span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;">"ASRA"...ASHAON KA</span> ....................... ;-)<br /><br />And the other is, <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">My 50th Follower</span> in my<span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 0); font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;"> "ASRA PANTHIS"</span> .... And who is Anu from <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://anusouthrecipes.blogspot.com/">Anu's Yummy Recipes</a>..... Thank You Anu..... It meant a lot..... As that makes my belief in me stronger.....<br /><br />Hence I would love to Certify Anu, with this piece of gratitude...... Kindly Accept it Anu..... :-)<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/Asra50FOLLOWER.jpg" alt="Certified" height="250" width="248" /></p><br />I would also take this opportunity to thank my <span style="font-weight: bold;">Blog Fraternity</span>, who have passed on their lovely awards.......<br /><br />I thank <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.sailajakitchen.com/">Shailaja</a> & <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://kothiyavunu.blogspot.com/">Sangeeta</a> for passing on the animated Yummylicious award & The 2009 Blogger Appreciation Award.....Too cool!!!!<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/bsbaward.gif" alt="yummilicious" height="154" width="200" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/Bloggeraward2009.jpg" alt="2009 appreciation" height="337" width="297" /></p><br /><br />Thank You <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.sailajakitchen.com/">Shailaja</a> for passing on this Interesting award too......<br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/interest.jpg" alt="interesting" height="106" width="106" /></p>Thank You <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.sailajakitchen.com/">Shailja</a>, <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://mykitchenrecepies.blogspot.com/">Esai Selvi</a>, <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://dishesfrommykitchen.blogspot.com/">Pavithra</a>..... for passing on this colorful best food blog award.....<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/best.jpg" alt="best food" height="111" width="111" /></p>Thank You <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://christinalytle.blogspot.com/">Christina</a> & <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://dishesfrommykitchen.blogspot.com/">Pavitra</a> for passing on this Mug of Beer to this deer...... ;-p<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/HugMugAward.jpg" alt="Hug Mug" height="274" width="200" /></p>Thank You <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://dishesfrommykitchen.blogspot.com/">Pavitra</a> for letting me own it too......I love those yum looking pan cakes...ready with a spoon to transfer it to my plate.....<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/AsraAward.jpg" alt="Asra Award" height="274" width="200" /></p>Thank You <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://priyasfeast.blogspot.com/">Priyadarshini</a> for passing on this Yummy Lolly & slurpy Thank You..........<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/thankuaward.jpg" alt="Thank You" height="239" width="319" /></p><br />Thank you <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://khanamasala.blogspot.com/">Babli</a> for considering my blog, worth of these 4 below flaunted awards.... It meant a lot, to see my name in the list..... The thought that I was on your mind, when u punched in those names..... Ignites my enthusiasm to the core....<br /><br />Thanks to <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://ayshadileen.blogspot.com/">Aysha</a> for passing it on......<br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/awardfromIndrani3.jpg" alt="Lov ur blog" height="200" width="200" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/fabolousaward.jpg" alt="Fabulous" height="240" width="320" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/InspirationAward.jpg" alt="Inspiration" height="143" width="200" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/award2.jpg" alt="Yum Yum" height="200" width="176" /></p>And Last But of course not the least I would like to thank <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.sailajakitchen.com/">Shailaja</a> for passing on this creative & beautiful award for fresh ideas......<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOG%20AWARDS/freshideablogaward.jpg" alt="Fresh Ideas" height="302" width="301" /></p>THANK YOU ONE & ALL........... AGAIN............. HAPPY BLOGGING!!!!!!!!!!!!!<br /><br /><br /><br /><b><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/224/FB86AADF240FA45239B7963BAE4F9753.png" style="border: 0pt none ! important; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial;" /></a></b>Ashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12039911212235165959noreply@blogger.com39tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1541814323693333064.post-14853969445717882862009-11-04T11:45:00.003+05:302009-11-07T21:00:25.386+05:30SIMPLE & INSTANT GHEE RICE (Jhatpat Ghee Rice) With CHICKEN ACCOMPANIMENTS...<p>My hubby hardly ate chicken, till we were wedded..... But now he is so......... into it..... And me right from the beginning, loved chicken like anything....My dad till this date...taunts me about the way I eat chicken...the way I eat like a pussy cat drinking its milk...with eyes closed...till the last drop... LOL</p>Now both me & Kuku, indulge ourselves in it every now & then..... Amma, Maa in-law & doctors, ask me to keep a check or control myself feasting on the meat...but in vain... They say it is not good as it hinders my conceiving...But we always savor it till the last piece, like there is no tomorrow........<br />Hmmmmmmmmm....................can't help ourselves!!!!!!!!!<br /><br />So when it gets very tempting to eat chicken... we think of something very delectable.... which is The favorite Chilli Chicken.... which is a slight different.... but it tastes yum!!!!! Now what about the main course???? It has to be a full fledged meal right!!!! I then remembered the lovely Instant Ghee Rice, mom had prepared on my <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://asha-oceanichope.blogspot.com/2009/08/day-i-would-treasure-my-entire-life.html">birthday</a>.... Now! Now! There goes the prep of a full fledged sumptuous Lunch.....<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">INSTANT GHEE RICE:</span><br /><br />Ingredients:<br /><br />Long Grain Rice (<span style="font-style: italic;">Basmati</span>) - 2 cups<br />Onion - 2 medium, finely sliced<br />Green Chilli - 2, slit lengthwise<br />Turmeric Powder - 1/2 tsp<br />Bay Leaf - 2 pieces<br />Cardamom - 2 pieces<br />Cinnamon - 1", 2 pieces<br />Cloves - 4 pieces<br />Cashew nut - 20 pieces<br />Ghee - 1/2 cup<br />Oil - 1/4 cup<br />Salt to Taste<br />Water - 3 cups<br /><br />Method:<br /><br />Wash the rice & drain the water...Keep it aside & let it dry....Heat a cooker with a mix of oil & ghee..... When the oil is smoking hot, fry the cashews & keep aside. Then add the bay leaf, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves & saute for a few seconds.... Now add the chillies & onions & saute till the onion turns translucent. Add the rice & saute for 4 minutes, with regular stirring. Now add water, add salt & turmeric powder & stir to let the ingredients blend well. Then finally add the fried cashews & cover it with the lid.... Pressure cook it for 4 whistles. Once the steam releases, open the lid & empty the rice into a serving bowl. Garnish with any garnishing, of your choice....<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/Simplepulav1.jpg" alt="Ghee Rice" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/Simplepulav2.jpg" alt="Ghee Rice" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />Now the Accompaniments.....<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">CHILLI CHICKEN DRY:</span><br /><br />Ingredients:<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Marination</span>:<br /><br />Chicken - 1 kg, cleaned & cut into medium sized pieces (<span style="font-style: italic;">Legs intact</span>)<br />Egg - 1<br />Curd - 3/4 cup<br />Food Color - 1/4 tsp (<span style="font-style: italic;">Optional</span>)<br />Edible Oil - 2 tsp<br />Oil to shallow fry<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">For Masala Powder Mix:</span> -<br /><br />Chilli Powder - 4 tsp<br />Cornflour - 2 tsp<br />Cinnamon (<span style="font-style: italic;">Cassia</span>) - 1", 2 pieces<br />Cloves - 5<br />Salt - 5 tsp<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">For Dry Masala</span><br /><br />Garlic Cloves - 20 pieces (<span style="font-style: italic;">finely chopped</span>)<br />Curry Leaves - 10 pieces<br />Capsicum - 1 big (<span style="font-style: italic;">finely sliced</span>)<br />Onion - 1 big (<span style="font-style: italic;">finely sliced</span>)<br />Green Chilli - 2 to 3 (<span style="font-style: italic;">slit lengthwise</span>)<br />Ginger Garlic Paste - 1 tsp<br />Coriander Leaves - 5 to 6 twigs (<span style="font-style: italic;">finely chopped</span>)<br />Cashew nuts - 10 pieces<br /><br />Method:<br /><br />Make a masala of the above ingredients & keep aside. Now marinate the chicken with the above masala mix, edible oil, color, curd & egg, & keep aside for one hour....<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/ChilliChicken1.jpg" alt="Chilli Chicken" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />Now heat oil in a pan or deep bottomed vessel to shallow fry the marinated chicken.... On a low flame, keep tossing the chicken at regular intervals, to avoid it from burning. Once the chicken pieces are done, remove &on absorbent paper & keep aside.<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/ChilliChicken2.jpg" alt="Chilli Chicken" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/ChilliChicken3.jpg" alt="Chilli Chicken" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/ChilliChicken4.jpg" alt="Chilli Chicken" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />In the same oil fry the cashew nuts & keep aside. Now add chopped garlic cloves & saute till it turns golden & add green chilli & saute further... Then add the onions & capsicum & toss them over...just toss them over regular intervals to avoid them from getting cooked.. They taste better when they are just sauteed. They would be hard & not cooked, which get them to lose their crispiness.... Once done, now add in the chicken, cashew & the left over masala.. that is the left over marination fluids.... to the veggies... That would give the dry masala the subtle taste required....<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/ChilliChicken5.jpg" alt="Chilli Chicken" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/ChilliChicken6.jpg" alt="Chilli Chicken" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />Now mix & toss the entire contents in the pan or vessel for sometime.... Now garnish with chopped coriander & spring onions... & Serve hot with the Ghee rice..... Yummmmmmmmm!!!!!!<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/ChilliChicken7.jpg" alt="Chilli Chicken" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />You can add another dry item to this meal... !!!!<br /><br />Generally, I hate the thick flesh pieces of chicken.. I love the bone pieces, with flesh attached, but not the flesh pieces all by itself, without any bones... Hence I separate them & prepare kebabs or 65 out of them.... And that is how I make these pieces edible for me & my family....<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">KEBAB or CHICKEN 65:</span><br /><br />Ingredients:<br /><br />The hard chicken pieces<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">For marination:</span><br /><br />Curd - 1/4 cup<br />Food Color - 1/2 tsp<br />Corn Flour - 2 tsp<br />Ginger Garlic Paste - 1 tsp<br />Salt to Taste<br />Kebab masala or Chicken 65 mix - 2 tsp<br /><br />Method:<br /><br />Marinate the hard chicken pieces with all the above metioned ingredients & set aside for an hour. Then just deep fry them. When the pieces are done or turn the Kebab color, just remove them on an absorbent paper & serve hot with the above course.<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/Chicken65.jpg" alt="Chicken 65" height="420" width="580" /></p><br /><br />Hence ends the yum & rich affair...... in your tummy.... yummy yummy!!!!!! ;-)<br /><br /><br />Jane from <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://janemdesign.blogspot.com/2009/11/i-have-for-you-pleasant-surprise.html">JANE MALININA DESIGN</a>, has these beautiful decal stickers, which I am a fan of.... Hence I'm linking my post back to her, to stand a chance to win one of them....<br /><br />My favorites are those bugs...real cute ones...<br /><br /><p><img src="http://i990.photobucket.com/albums/af22/asra2104/BLOGGED%20PICS/Bugs.jpg" alt="Decals" height="300" width="400" /></p><br /><br />& the other is the Moon Decal Sticker...Oh! how romantic that is...Just like me & my Kuku, how apt would that be for my bedroom....!!!!!!!<br />(Love Birds romancing....)<br /><br />(Keeping fingers crossed!!!!)<br /><br />Beautiful Decal designs, I simply love them.....<br /><br /><a href="http://janemdesign.blogspot.com/2009/11/i-have-for-you-pleasant-surprise.html">Jane Malinina design: I have for you pleasant surprise!</a><br /><br /><br /><b><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54487/224/FB86AADF240FA45239B7963BAE4F9753.png" style="border: 0pt none ! important; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 0%; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial;" /></a></b>Ashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12039911212235165959noreply@blogger.com41