news

Category: food

  • ​15-minute plum cake recipe you can make at home​


    Easy plum cake recipe

    Plum cake usually sounds like a long project — soaked fruits, slow baking, too much effort. But this quick version gives you all the fruity flavour without the wait. It’s soft, lightly spiced, and easy to make with basic ingredients. Juicy plums, a rich base, and that warm baked smell make it feel special. Plus, you control what goes in — less sugar, no extras, just real flavour. Perfect for sudden cravings or when you want something sweet without the fuss. Here’s how to make it at home easily.

    istock

    What you’ll need

    You’ll need 2 ripe plums (chopped and deseeded, peel is fine), 1 cup whole wheat flour or maida, ½ cup jaggery powder or brown sugar, 1 tsp baking powder, ½ tsp cinnamon powder, and a pinch of salt. For the wet ingredients, use ¼ cup milk, ¼ cup plain curd, 2 tbsp neutral oil (like sunflower or rice bran), and ½ tsp vanilla extract if you have it.

    istock

    Step 1

    Preheat your oven or OTG to 180°C. If you’re using an air fryer or even a thick-bottomed kadhai with a lid, just warm it up for a few minutes. Grease a small cake tin or line it with baking paper.

    istock

    Step 2

    In a bowl, mix together the flour, jaggery, baking powder, cinnamon powder, and salt. Give it a quick stir so everything blends evenly.

    istock

    Step 3

    In another bowl, mix the curd, milk, and oil. Stir it all together till it’s smooth and a little runny. Add a few drops of vanilla extract if you’re using it. That tiny bit adds a nice smell, but skip it if you don’t have it.

    istock

    Step 4

    Pour the wet mix into the dry ingredients. Fold everything together gently — no overmixing. The batter will be a bit thick, but that’s what gives the cake its soft crumb.

    istock

    Step 5

    Add the chopped plums to the batter and fold them in gently so they’re spread out. Save a few pieces to press on top if you want it to look nice.

    istock

    Step 6

    Pour the batter into the cake tin and bake for 12–15 minutes, depending on your oven. Check with a toothpick — if it comes out mostly clean, it’s done. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. That’s it. Simple, warm, and ready when you are.

    istock

    It’s ready

    Enjoy it warm, or let it cool down and drizzle some chocolate syrup on top — either way, it tastes great.

    istock

    Thanks For Reading!

    Next: How to make Beetroot Stuffed Paneer Paratha in less than 15 minutes

    Read Next

  • Healthy and tasty South Indian-style Coconut Rice with leftover rice


    Easy South Indian-style coconut rice recipe

    Give your lunch an amazing and delicious twist with this delicious yet healthy coconut rice recipe, which can be made with leftover rice and subtle South Indian spices and herbs. This aromatic rice recipe is perfect for a quick lunch and can be made in just 15 minutes. So, follow us through some simple steps and nail this classic South Indian recipe by using leftover rice.

    Getty Images

    Ingredients

    150 grams/1 cup cooked leftover rice, 1 cup grated coconut, 2 whole red chilies, 7-8 curry leaves, ½ tsp mustard seeds, 2 tbsp ghee, and whole spices like star anise, javitri, and cinnamon. 1 tsp red chili powder, ½ tsp jeera seeds, 1 large onion, 2 green chilies, salt and pepper as needed, and 1 tsp chana dal.

    Getty Images

    Step 1

    To begin with this easy recipe, use a fork and separate the leftover rice.

    Getty Images

    Step 2

    Take a coconut, grate it freshly and keep it aside.

    Getty Images

    Step 3

    Next, wash and chop the veggies and herbs.

    Getty Images

    Step 4

    Take a pan and add in ghee, mustard seeds, whole red chilies and chana dal.

    Getty Images

    Step 5

    Toss the tempering and add in onion, green chilies and spices.

    Getty Images

    Step 6

    Once the onion is nicely golden, add in rice and grated coconut, spices, and toss it up.

    Getty Images

    Step 7

    Serve hot with chutney and enjoy!

    Getty Images

    Thanks For Reading!

    Next: ​15-minute plum cake recipe you can make at home​

    Read Next

  • 10 delicious ways to enjoy corn during monsoon


    Easy corn dishes to enjoy

    Corn and monsoon make a delicious and nostalgic pairing that many of us enjoy. Rich in fiber and antioxidants, corn is not just tasty but also a nourishing seasonal treat that can be used in different ways to be enjoyed during this season. Take a look at these 10 delicious dishes one can make at home.

    istock

    Bhutta

    This is one of the most popular corn dishes enjoyed during monsoons. To make this you need corn kernels, charcoal, lemon, salt, and chili powder. It makes for a simple yet iconic favourite.

    istock

    Corn Soup

    This is a comforting one-bowl delight to enjoy on a rainy evening. To make this, all you need is corn, veg stock, corn flour, ginger, garlic, and spring onions, soy sauce, vinegar, salt, and pepper for an extra punch.

    istock

    Corn Pakoras

    These are crispy, spicy, and perfect chai treats made with corn mixed with besan, onions, and spices, which are deep-fried to golden perfection. They are best served with green chutney.

    istock

    Corn Chaat

    It is a quick and tangy snack made with boiled corn, onions, tomatoes, chaat masala, lime juice, and coriander. It makes for a filling evening snack which is bursting with flavours.

    istock

    Corn Pulao

    It is a one-pot meal that is made with rice, corn, whole spices, veggies like peas, carrots, capsicums, and spices. It makes for a comforting rice dish, best paired with raita and chutney.

    istock

    Corn and Cheese Dip

    It is a creamy and indulgent delight, which is made with steamed and blended corn, mixed with cheese, salt, pepper, oregano, and chilli flakes, It pairs wonderfully with nachos or toasted bread on rainy evenings.

    istock

    Corn Stuffed Paratha

    It makes for a filling breakfast, where spiced corn and paneer is stuffed in whole wheat flour dough, then rolled into parathas and are then cooked on a preheat tawa using enough oil or ghee.

    istock

    Corn Salad

    It is a light, refreshing, and healthy salad that uses boiled corn with cucumbers, bell peppers, and a tangy lemon dressing for a fresh monsoon snack. It goes well with cocktails and mocktails as well.

    istock

    Corn Curry

    Also known as Makki ki Sabzi, this main course dish is made with steamed corn kernels, which are cooked in a gravy made with tomatoes, onions, and Indian spices. It pairs beautifully with roti or steamed rice.

    istock

    Corn and Coconut Halwa

    This one makes for an innovative treat, which is made with grated soft corn, coconut, ghee, and cardamom. It is a unique monsoon dessert that uses jaggery or sugar for the perfect sweetness.

    istock

    Thanks For Reading!

    Next: Healthy and tasty South Indian-style Coconut Rice with leftover rice

    Read Next

  • 9 high-protein curries without paneer or dal


    Tasty protein-packed curries

    When you think of high-protein vegetarian meals, paneer and dal are the first to pop up — and fair enough, they do a lot of heavy lifting. But let’s be honest, even the best food gets a bit tiring when it’s on repeat. The good news? Indian kitchens are full of protein-rich options that don’t rely on cubes of paneer or bowls of dal. You just need to know where to look — seeds, legumes, veggies, and even certain flours quietly offer solid protein and taste great in curry form. This list isn’t about fancy recipes or gym-style meal prep. It’s about comfort food that naturally gives you more from every bite — protein, flavour, and that satisfying full-belly feeling without boredom. Here are some underrated but protein-packed curries that deserve a spot on your plate.

    istock

    Black chana curry

    Kala chana, or black chickpeas, might seem simple, but it’s one of the most protein-packed ingredients you can cook with. The curry comes out thick, earthy, and full of depth — the kind that feels filling without being too heavy. It pairs well with both roti and rice, and when slow-cooked with onion, tomato, and a bit of ginger, it turns into a meal that keeps you full for hours and supports your energy and digestion in a natural, no-fuss way.

    istock

    Moth bean curry (matkiusal)

    Matki or moth beans cook quickly and soak up spices beautifully. This curry is popular in Maharashtra and often finished with a tadka of garlic and mustard seeds. It’s protein-rich, fibre-loaded, and especially comforting with soft rice or jowar bhakri. If you want a break from regular pulses but still want something wholesome, matki is an easy win.

    istock

    Green peas masala

    Fresh or frozen, green peas are surprisingly high in protein for a vegetable. When cooked down in a tomato-onion base with garam masala and kasurimethi, they turn into a sweet, spicy curry that works with paratha or poori. It’s the kind of curry that feels indulgent but is actually doing your body a quiet favour.

    istock

    Soy nugget curry (nutri sabzi)

    Soya chunks don’t always get the love they deserve. But when cooked right — soaked well, squeezed out, and simmered in masala — they taste meaty, soak up all the flavour, and offer serious protein. This curry is a favourite for tiffins and weeknight meals because it reheats beautifully and pairs well with anything from phulkas to rice.

    istock

    Amaranth leaves with black-eyed peas

    Chaulai saag combined with lobia (black-eyed peas) creates a curry that’s as nutritious as it is comforting. The iron from the greens and protein from the beans make a powerful combo that’s especially good if you’re feeling low-energy. It’s light on the stomach but gives you that strong, steady kind of fullness.

    istock

    Besan and bottle gourd curry (lauki ki kadhi)

    This is not your regular curd-based kadhi — it uses besan (gram flour) not just as a thickener but as a protein source. Add soft pieces of lauki and a proper tempering of cumin, mustard seeds, and curry leaves, and you’ve got a creamy, lightly tangy dish that’s great with steamed rice. It’s a quiet star on the comfort food menu.

    istock

    Rajma-style curry with green moong

    If you love the rich feel of rajma but want something lighter, try making the same style of curry with whole green moong. It mimics the creamy texture, offers loads of plant protein, and feels satisfying without being too heavy. Serve it with jeera rice and a spoon of ghee and you’ve got a very solid meal.

    istock

    Baingan with peanuts and sesame

    Roasted eggplant becomes something special when paired with peanuts and white sesame seeds. This Maharashtrian-inspired curry is smoky, earthy, and full of deep, nutty flavour. It’s the kind of dish that feels comforting but also nourishing — especially when served with hot rotis or a bowl of millet. And it’s not just about taste — the sesame and peanuts bring a healthy dose of protein, good fats, and magnesium, making it a great meal for lasting energy and balance.

    istock

    Drumstick and chickpea curry

    Drumsticks (moringa pods) are great for digestion and full of nutrients, but when you add boiled chickpeas to the mix, you get a curry that’s protein-rich, high in fibre, and seriously satisfying. The soft chickpeas soak up the spices, the drumsticks add their own texture, and the whole thing feels hearty but still fresh.

    istock

    Thanks For Reading!

    Next: 10 delicious ways to enjoy corn during monsoon

    Read Next

  • Sawan 2025 special: How to make Coconut Churma Ladoo for puja


    How to make Coconut Churma Ladoo for puja

    The holy month of Sawan has begun, and it’s that time of year when devotees of Lord Shiva observe fasts, perform rituals, and follow a sattivik culture. Well, if you too are observing fasts and want to offer something sweet to the deity as a prasad, then try out this traditional churma laddoo recipe, which is made in the northern part of India during the month of Sawan. So, follow us through this easy recipe and give it an interesting twist of coconutty flavour. So, try out today.

    Getty Images

    Ingredients:

    1 cup wheat flour, 2 tbsp semolina, 2 tbsp ghee, ½ powdered jaggery, 1/2 cup, ½ tsp cardamom powder, ½ cup chopped nuts, ¼ cup dry fruits, ½ cup desiccated coconut.

    Getty Images

    Step 1

    To begin with this easy recipe, sift the flour.

    Getty Images

    Step 2

    In a mixing bowl, combine wheat flour and semolina. Add a pinch of sendha salt.

    Getty Images

    Step 3

    Add 2 tbsp of ghee into the flour mixture and mix well until the flour turns crumbly and resembles coarse crumbs.Gradually add water, little by little, and knead into a smooth, soft dough.

    Getty Images

    Step 4

    The dough should not be too soft or too stiff.Cover the dough and let it rest for about 15-20 minutes.

    Getty Images

    Step 5

    Take small portions of dough and roll them into tight, round balls.Heat ghee in a deep frying pan on medium heat. When the ghee is hot, fry the dough balls until they are golden brown and crisp on all sides.

    Getty Images

    Step 6

    After frying remove the churma from the ghee and drain it on paper towels. Allow it to cool down and then it crush it coarsely with hands, you can also use a rolling pin to get a crumbled texture of churma. Then grind in a grinder.

    Getty Images

    Step 7

    Heat a little ghee in a pan and add powdered jaggery to it. Let the jaggery melt, and stir to avoid lumps. Add the crushed churma into the jaggery syrup and desiccated coconut nicely. Add a pinch of cardamom powder and saffron.

    Getty Images

    Step 8

    Let it cook for sometime, stir it with chopped nuts like cashews, almonds, and pistachios for crunch and flavor. Apply ghee on your palms and roll the laddoos and offer as a prasad.

    Getty Images

    Thanks For Reading!

    Next: 9 high-protein curries without paneer or dal

    Read Next

  • How to make protein and fiber-rich Quinoa Pulao for dinner


    Quinoa Pulao Recipe

    Bored of regular rice and roti for dinner? Then give this Quinoa Pulao a try. Quinoa is a gluten-free super grain packed with protein, fiber, and essential amino acids. It is light and fluffy when cooked and is a great substitute for rice as well. Rich in iron, magnesium, and antioxidants, it supports energy and gut health as well. Tap next to read the simple recipe and give it a try.

    istock

    Ingredients required

    1 cup quinoa, 2 cups water, 2 onions, 1 tbsp ginger garlic paste, 1 carrot, 1/2 cup cauliflower, 1/2 cup peas, 1/4 cup beans, salt to taste, 1/2 tsp garam masala, 4 tbsp ghee, and 2 tbsp coriander leaves

    istock

    Step 2

    In a pan, heat 2 tbsp ghee and add the soaked and strained quinoa. ⁠

    istock

    Step 1

    Wash and soak quinoa for 15-20 mins and keep it aside.

    istock

    Step 3

    Sauté for 2 mins and then add 2 and half cups of hot water and salt to taste. Cover and cook for 10 minutes.

    istock

    Step 4

    In the meantime, heat 2 tbsp ghee and add onions and ginger garlic paste. Mix well and cook for 2 minutes

    istock

    Step 5

    Add the veggies, salt and garam masala and mix well. Cover and cook until veggies turn soft.

    istock

    Step 6

    Once done add the cooked quinoa and mix well.

    istock

    Step 7

    Garnish with coriander leaves and serve hot with curd.

    istock

    Thanks For Reading!

    Next: Sawan 2025 special: How to make Coconut Churma Ladoo for puja

    Read Next

  • Lesser known reasons to include onion in the daily diet


    This why adding onion to the diet is a must!

    It is impossible to imagine Indian cooking without the addition of onions, but little do we know that eating fresh onions can give more nutritional benefits as compared to cooked onions. So, here are 8 reasons that will make you add raw onions to your daily diet.

    Getty Images

    Supports Gut Flora

    Fresh onions are rich in prebiotics, especially inulin and fructooligosaccharides, which feed the good bacteria in your gut. This helps improve digestion, reduce bloating, and enhance nutrient absorption.

    Getty Images

    Natural Blood Thinner

    Onions contain organosulfur compounds that help prevent blood from clotting too much. Regular intake can improve circulation and may lower the risk of heart attacks or strokes.

    Getty Images

    Reduces Insulin Resistance

    Compounds in raw onions, particularly quercetin and sulfur, may help reduce insulin resistance, making it beneficial for those managing type 2 diabetes or prediabetes.

    Getty Images

    Boosts Bone Density

    Surprisingly, onions support bone health. Studies have shown that compounds in onions help improve bone mineral density, especially in women after menopause.

    Getty Images

    Fights Respiratory Infections

    The natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties in onions can soothe nasal congestion, colds, and bronchitis. Raw onion juice mixed with honey is a traditional remedy for cough.

    Getty Images

    Improves Iron Absorption

    Onions, especially when eaten with iron-rich foods like lentils or spinach, can enhance non-heme iron absorption. This is particularly helpful for vegetarians and anemics.

    Getty Images

    Skin Purifying Effects

    The sulfur compounds in onions help detoxify the blood, which may lead to clearer skin and fewer breakouts. Onion juice is also traditionally used to fade acne scars when applied topically.

    Getty Images

    Natural Mood Booster

    Onions contain folate, which supports the production of serotonin and dopamine, mood-regulating chemicals. Regular consumption may reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.

    Getty Images

    Anti-Cancer properties

    Compounds like quercetin and sulfur in onions have been studied for their ability to slow the growth of certain cancer cells, especially stomach and colorectal cancers, by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.

    Getty Images

    Thanks For Reading!

    Next: How to make protein and fiber-rich Quinoa Pulao for dinner

    Read Next

  • Monsoon Special: How to make Crispy Chicken Egg Fried Rice


    Crispy Chicken Egg Fried Rice

    Are you also in mood for some fried rice loaded with protein? If yes, then try this Crispy Chicken Egg Fried Rice. Made with boneless chicken marinated in corn flour and deep fried to perfection and scrambled eggs, this one-pot rice dish is filling and highly nutritious. Tap next to read the detailed recipe.

    istock

    Ingredients required for crispy chicken

    250g boneless chicken, 2 tbsp cornflour, 2 tbsp all-purpose flour, 1 tsp soy sauce, 1/2 tsp black pepper, salt to taste, oil for frying

    istock

    Other ingredients

    2 cups cooked rice, 2 eggs, 1/2 cup spring onions, 1/44 cup carrots, 1/4 cup capsicum, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp dark soy sauce, 1 tbsp vinegar, 1 tsp sesame oil 2–3 garlic cloves, salt and pepper to taste, and 1–2 tbsp oil

    istock

    Step 1

    In a bowl, mix chicken pieces with cornflour, all-purpose flour, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.

    istock

    Step 2

    Heat oil in a pan and deep-fry the chicken until golden and crispy. Set them aside.

    istock

    Step 3

    In a wok, heat a bit of oil and add the beaten eggs and scramble them quickly. Set it aside as well.

    istock

    Step 4

    In the same pan, add oil and sauté garlic until fragrant.

    istock

    Step 5

    Add the chopped veggies and cook for 2–3 minutes. Add soy sauces, vinegar, salt, pepper, and sesame oil. Toss everything well.

    istock

    Step 6

    Add the cooked rice, scrambled eggs and crispy chicken to the rice. Toss gently and cook for 3-4 minutes.

    istock

    Step 7

    Garnish with spring onions and serve hot. Enjoy!

    istock

    Thanks For Reading!

    Next: Lesser known reasons to include onion in the daily diet

    Read Next

  • How to make protein-rich Green Moong Dosa for breakfast


    Green Moong Dosa

    Green Moong Dosa makes for a healthy and easy-to-make breakfast. Green moong, also known as mung beans, is a powerhouse of plant-based protein and fiber. It’s light on the stomach, aids digestion, and helps in weight management. Take a look at this simple and easy breakfast recipe that can be made at home.

    istock

    Ingredients required

    1 cup green moong, 2 tbsp rice, 1–2 green chillies, 1-inch piece ginger, 1/2 tsp cumin seeds, salt to taste, 1/2 cup water, ghee for cooking

    istock

    Step 1

    Rinse and soak green moong and rice in enough water for 6–8 hours or overnight.

    istock

    Step 2

    Drain the water and blend soaked moong with ginger, green chillies, cumin, salt, and a little water to make a smooth batter.

    istock

    Step 3

    Let the batter rest for 30 minutes for better texture.

    istock

    Step 4

    Heat a non-stick or cast-iron tawa and grease it well.

    istock

    Step 5

    Pour a ladle of batter and spread it in a circular motion. Drizzle oil around the edges.

    istock

    Step 6

    Cook until the bottom is crisp and golden.

    istock

    Step 7

    Serve hot with coconut chutney and sambar.

    istock

    Thanks For Reading!

    Next: Monsoon Special: How to make Crispy Chicken Egg Fried Rice

    Read Next

  • 8 apple dishes from around the world


    Must-try apple dishes

    Packed with fiber and antioxidants, apples are considered to be a powerhouse of nutrition. Apart from enjoying them raw, this fruit is also enjoyed in various forms around the world. Take a look at these unique and tempting apple dishes that are worth a try.

    istock

    Apple Pie, USA

    To make this delight, you need sliced apples, which are tossed with cinnamon, sugar, and flour, then placed between two layers of pie crust. Baked until golden and bubbly, it’s often served with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

    istock

    Tarte Tatin, France

    These are made by caramelizing apples in sugar and butter in a skillet, then topped with pastry dough and baked. Once done, it’s flipped upside down to reveal the glossy caramelized apple topping.

    istock

    Apfelstrudel, Germany

    This one is made when thin pastry dough is filled with sliced apples, cinnamon, raisins, breadcrumbs, and sometimes nuts. It’s rolled up, brushed with butter, and baked until crisp, then dusted with powdered sugar.

    istock

    Apple Crumble, UK

    To make this delight, you need chopped apples, which are placed in a baking dish and topped with a crumbly mixture of flour, sugar, and butter. Baked until the top is golden and the apples are soft and juicy.

    istock

    Sharlotka, Russia

    In this dish, sliced apples are placed in a cake tin and covered with a simple batter made from eggs, sugar, and flour. Baked until fluffy, it’s lightly sweet and often dusted with powdered sugar.

    istock

    Apple Pancakes, Germany

    To make this, apple slices are added to a pancake batter made with eggs, flour, and milk. Cooked on a skillet until golden, often sprinkled with sugar or served with jam.

    istock

    Apple Fritters, USA/Canada

    To make this dish, chopped apples are mixed into a spiced batter, deep-fried until golden, and coated in sugar glaze or cinnamon sugar. Crispy outside, soft and juicy inside.

    istock

    Apple Chutney, India

    In this dish, chopped apples are cooked with ginger, garlic, sugar, vinegar, and Indian spices (like cumin, mustard seeds, and chili). Simmered to a thick, sweet-savory spread.

    istock

    Thanks For Reading!

    Next: How to make protein-rich Green Moong Dosa for breakfast

    Read Next