Category: food

Chocolate Kaju Katli Recipe

Are you a Kaju Katli fan, who also loves chocolates? If yes, then this Chocolate Kaju Katli by Chef Aanal Kotak is a must-try for you. Made with simple ingredients this sweet dish can be easily prepared at home. Tap next to read the simple recipe.

Ingredients required

250 gms cashew nuts, 200 gms powdered sugar, 1/4 cup cocoa powder, water as required, silver varq for garnish, and 100 gms white chocolate

Step 1

First of all, soak cashew nuts in water overnight.

Step 2

Next morning, grind the soaked cashew into a fine paste using a few drops of water.

Step 3

Transfer the paste in a pan, add powdered sugar and mix this before turning on the stove.

Step 4

As it is properly mixed, turn on the stove and mix continuously till the mixture leaves the pan.

Step 5

As mixture gets little thick, add cocoa powder and mix. Further transfer it to a silicone mat and knead it till it becomes soft.

Step 6

Flatten this mixture with spatula first and then roll it gently with roller.

Step 7

Then with double boiler method boil white chocolate and spread a layer of white chocolate on top of kaju katli.

Step 8

Cut the katli into diamond pieces. Garnish with silver varq on top and serve.

Smart breakfasts for stable sugar and digestion

Let’s face it, breakfast gets tricky when you’re managing blood sugar and still want something tasty. You’re trying to avoid the sugar crashes, the boring repeats, and the mid-morning hunger pangs, and on top of that, you want something that keeps your gut happy. The good news? You don’t need to choose between healthy and delicious. Here are some clever breakfast ideas that are kind to your blood sugar and your digestion.

Moong dal cheela with ajwain

This savoury crepe made from soaked moong dal is light, high in protein, and surprisingly satisfying. Add ajwain (carom seeds) to the batter and it’s even better for your stomach. Ajwain helps reduce bloating, gas, and indigestion — while moong dal gives you slow-release energy without spiking your sugar levels. Pair it with mint chutney for a herby kick.

Chia seed curd bowl

Chia seeds are little fibre bombs that soak up water and expand, keeping you full for hours. Stir them into homemade curd with a pinch of cinnamon, some grated cucumber, and maybe a spoonful of flaxseed powder. It’s cool, creamy, probiotic-rich, and gentle on your gut. A perfect non-sugary way to start your day.

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Vegetable poha with flaxseedsPoha is quick, comforting, and naturally light on the stomach — especially if you load it up with veggies like bottle gourd, beans, or spinach. A small sprinkle of roasted flaxseeds adds healthy fats and fibre. This combo keeps your blood sugar stable and supports better bowel movements too.

Besan pancake with methi

Besan (chickpea flour) doesn’t mess with your sugar and digests slowly. Mix it with chopped methi (fenugreek leaves), turmeric, and cumin, and you’ve got a protein-rich, gut-friendly breakfast that tastes great plain or with green chutney. Fenugreek also has blood-sugar-lowering properties — and cumin helps digestion along.

Sprouted moong salad with lemon

If you’re not in the mood to cook, this one’s a lifesaver. Sprouted moong is packed with plant protein, and tossing it with lemon, raw veggies, and a pinch of black salt gives you something tangy, crunchy, and totally blood-sugar-safe. The fermentation during sprouting also improves digestibility.

Ragi porridge with stewed apples

Ragi is one of those grains that just gets the job done. It’s packed with fibre, keeps your sugar steady, and doesn’t cause tummy drama. Cook it into a warm, mushy porridge with water or some thinned-out milk, then throw on some soft stewed apples and a pinch of cinnamon. It feels indulgent but doesn’t spike your glucose. Plus, the warmth is soothing on the gut.

Masala buttermilk with veggie upma

A small bowl of upma made with semolina might sound basic, but adding grated lauki or carrots and serving it with masala buttermilk transforms the meal. The buttermilk cools your gut, aids digestion, and gives you probiotics — while the veggies add bulk and slow down carb absorption.

Homemade vegetable idli with chutney

Soft, steamed, and fermented — idlis are naturally easy on the gut. Add grated veggies like pumpkin or cabbage to the batter for extra fibre, and pair with a chutney made from coconut, coriander, and a bit of roasted chana dal. Fermentation boosts gut bacteria, and this combo won’t cause blood sugar swings.

Mashed sweet potato toast

Ditch the bread and mash up some sweet potato instead. Add a bit of grated ginger, roasted jeera, and a squeeze of lemon — that’s it. Spread it on a moong dal chilla or just eat it with a couple of boiled eggs. It’s filling, tasty, and actually good for your gut, thanks to the fibre sweet potato’s packing. Your stomach bugs will be happy, and so will you.

Khichdi with curd and a twist

Start your day with a soft, lightly spiced moong dal khichdi made with bottle gourd, spinach, or zucchini. Keep it light on the rice or switch it for millet. Top with a spoonful of ghee and have with plain curd on the side. This one soothes the stomach, keeps you full, and doesn’t push your glucose through the roof.

Simple Dal Tadka recipe for beginners

Are you someone who is new to cooking, and wants to start from the basics of Indian cuisine, then we have got your back with this simple recipe, which can be made at home by following some simple steps given below. So, try out this easy recipe and enjoy.

Ingredients

1 ½ cup moong dal, 1 inch ginger grated, 4-5 garlic cloves, 2 whole red chilies, 1 large onion, 2 green chilies, ½ tsp turmeric, 1 tsp red chili powder, 1 tsp coriander powder, ½ tsp jeera powder, 1 pinch hing, 1 handful coriander leaves, 1 bay leaf, salt and ghee.

Step 1

To begin with this easy recipe, wash and soak the dal.

Step 2

Meanwhile, wash and chop vegetables.

Step 3

Take a pressure cooker and add in some ghee/oil followed by whole spices.

Step 5

Then once the onion is golden, add in the ginger, garlic and spices along with the dal, saute for 2-3 minutes and add salt.

Step 6

Then add in 3 cups of water and cover the lid. Pressure cook for 2-3 whistles. Then turn off the heat after releasing the steam.

Step 6

Then add in 3 cups of water and cover the lid. Pressure cook for 2-3 whistles. Then turn off the heat after releasing the steam.

Step 7

Prepare a tempering by adding ghee in a pan followed by whole red chilies, garlic cloves, jeera seeds, let them splutter and then pour it over the dal. Mix well.

Easy no-sugar Kaju Katli recipe for beginners

Festive season is around the corner, and it’s that time of the year, when different types of sweets are prepared to celebrate the monsoon festivals like Teej, Rakhi, Janamashtami and Ganesh Chaturthi. But one thing that can’t be missed from the festive spread is the Kaju Katli, which is the heart and soul of every Indian festival.

Why ditch store-bought sweets?

However, store bought Kaju Katli are often laden with sugar, fats and low quality cashews and adulterants that make it harmful for health. Well, we have got your back with this easy and diabetic-friendly Kaju Katli recipe, which can be made in just a few minutes with all easily available ingredients in the kitchen. So, follow us through this easy recipe and enjoy!

Ingredients

1 cup cashews, 2 tbsp stevia, ½ cup water, 1 tbsp ghee, ½ tsp cardamom powder, silver vark.

Step 1

To begin with this easy recipe, take a pan and add in ghee.

Step 2

Once the ghee is warm enough, add in the cashews and roast them lightly. Transfer to a plate and allow it to cool down.

Step 3

Now, take a grinder and grind the cashews into a smooth powder form.

Step 4

Next, take a pan and add in water to the pan, then add in the stevia and keep stirring along with cardamom powder. Allow this mixture to heat up a bit and turn slightly thick.

Step 5

Then add in the cashew powder gradually, and keep stirring till the mixture releases oil and sticks together. Transfer this to a bowl and let it cool down, then using a rolling pin flatten it.

Step 6

Apply silver varq, cut the sweet in desired shapes and enjoy!

Easy South Indian-style Coconut Paniyaram recipe

Craving for something sweet, fluffy yet healthy? Then follow us through this easy South Indian recipe, which makes for a perfect snack as well as a dessert or hearty breakfast recipe. Made with some simple ingredients found in the kitchen, so follow us through this recipe, which can be made at home with the goodness of coconut, jaggery, semolina, nuts and dry fruits that together give this dish a soft texture and delightful taste, especially when served warm.

Ingredients

1 ½ cup idli batter, 1 cup freshly grated coconut, ¼ cup jaggery, ¼ tsp cardamom powder, 1-2 tbsp ghee, 2 tbsp water, one pinch of salt, ¼ cup mixed nuts and dry fruits, milk for the batter as needed.

Step 1

To begin with this easy and delicious recipe, take the idli batter and mix it well with jaggery powder.

Step 2

Now, take a pan and add in water, once the water turns warm add the jaggery and whisk it well to form a syrup.

Step 3

Now, add this to the idli batter and along with grated coconut, cardamom powder and baking soda, salt and mix it well with crushed dry fruits and nuts. Allow the batter to ferment for some time.

Step 4

At this point heat an appe pan. Meanwhile, grease the pan with ghee.

Step 5

Next, add in a dollop of the batter, then allow it to cook by covering the lid.

Step 6

Flip sides, grease it with some more ghee for that perfect crisp texture.

Step 7

Repeat the process with the rest of the batter and serve warm with honey to enjoy!

8 untold benefits of eating one avocado daily

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

The combination of phytonutrients, vitamin K, omega-9 fats, and antioxidants in avocados works to reduce inflammation in the body. Regular intake may help with chronic inflammatory conditions like arthritis, and also promote overall cellular health..

Supports Heart Health

Avocados are rich in monounsaturated fats, especially oleic acid, which helps reduce bad LDL cholesterol while boosting good HDL cholesterol. This healthy fat profile supports overall heart health and may lower the risk of heart disease over time when combined with a balanced diet.

Aids in Digestion

Each avocado is packed with soluble and insoluble fiber, which helps regulate digestion, prevent constipation, and maintain a healthy gut microbiome. Eating it daily can help keep your digestive system functioning smoothly and comfortably.

Loaded with Potassium

Avocados contain more potassium than bananas, making them excellent for controlling blood pressure. Potassium helps balance fluids, regulate muscle contractions, and reduce the risk of stroke by maintaining cardiovascular stability.

Enhances Skin Glow

Thanks to their rich content of vitamin E, vitamin C, and healthy fats, avocados help nourish the skin from within. Daily consumption can improve skin elasticity, reduce inflammation, and support collagen production for a youthful glow.

Aids in Digestion

Each avocado is packed with soluble and insoluble fiber, which helps regulate digestion, prevent constipation, and maintain a healthy gut microbiome. Eating it daily can help keep your digestive system functioning smoothly and comfortably.

Boosts Brain Function

Avocados are a rich source of folate and healthy fats, both of which support brain function and mental clarity. The monounsaturated fats help improve blood flow to the brain, which can support cognitive performance and memory over time.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

The combination of phytonutrients, vitamin K, omega-9 fats, and antioxidants in avocados works to reduce inflammation in the body. Regular intake may help with chronic inflammatory conditions like arthritis and also promote overall cellular health..

Cutlet recipe made with leftover Poha

Bored of eating leftover poha, then we have got you an interesting recipe, which can be made by using leftover vegetable poha mashed with some potatoes, spices and herbs. So, if you too are looking for a quick snack made with homemade ingredients, then try out this easy dish and enjoy!

Ingredients

1 bowl cooked poha, 2 medium potatoes, 1 large onion, 3 green chilies, 1 handful coriander leaves, 1 tsp red chili powder, ½ tsp cumin powder, 1 tsp coriander powder, 1 tbsp ginger garlic paste. ¼ cup besan, salt and pepper as needed.

Step 1

To begin with this easy recipe, wash and peel the potatoes. Keep the poha aside.

Step 2

Meanwhile, wash, peel and chop veggies.

Step 3

Then take a pressure cooker and boil the potatoes.

Step 4

Take a bowl and mash the potatoes along with poha, besan, veggies, spices and herbs.

Step 5

Make small cutlets, dust them with flour. Meanwhile, heat a pan and keep aside.

Step 6

Fry the cutlets.

Step 7

Serve hot with chutney.

Tomato and Burrata Sandwich Recipe

Some days, you just want something fresh, creamy, and easy. This open sandwich brings together juicy tomatoes, soft burrata, and a sweet-spicy relish. It looks fancy but takes only minutes to make. Here’s a perfect summer lunch.

Ingredients required

1 cup chopped roasted red peppers, 8 pickled jalapeño slices, 8 finely chopped basil leaves, 3 tbsp olive oil, 2 tsp apple cider vinegar, salt to taste, 4 crusty ciabatta slices, 2 cups shredded romaine, 8 tomato slices, 1 sliced avocado, and 2 torn balls of burrata.

Step 1

On a cutting board, finely chop roasted red peppers and jalapeno slices together until they form a chunky mix. Transfer to a bowl and stir in chopped basil, olive oil, vinegar, and salt. Mix well. This becomes your bold, tangy spread.

Step 2

Place the bread slices on a plate or tray. Spread a layer of the red pepper relish on each one, allowing it to soak in slightly and flavour the bread.

Step 3

Add a handful of shredded lettuce over the relish. It adds crunch to the sandwich and helps keep it feeling light.

Step 4

Place two thick tomato slices on each sandwich, then layer with avocado slices. Finish by adding chunks of torn burrata on top. The juicy tomatoes, creamy avocado, and rich cheese come together for a perfect bite every time.

Step 5

Your open-face Tomato and Burrata Sandwich is ready.

Step 7

Eat immediately while everything is fresh and cool. You may add condiment of your choice on the side. Note: All images are for representation purposes only.

Gut-friendly Indian street foods

Street food and gut health in the same sentence? Sounds suspicious, but hear us out. Sure, a lot of street food can mess with your stomach, especially the deep-fried, extra-oily stuff. But not all of it’s bad news. Some Indian street foods actually help your gut out, thanks to natural probiotics, fibre, and ingredients that keep digestion running smooth. So the next time you’re at your favourite thela, you might just be giving your gut a quiet little win. Scroll down to see which street-side bites secretly love your gut back.

Fermented tang of kanji vada

Served in many parts of North India, kanji vada is a genius combination of lentil vadas soaked in fermented mustard-flavoured water. That slightly sour taste? It’s full of gut-friendly bacteria. Kanji naturally ferments at room temperature, making it a traditional probiotic drink. The vadas also bring some fibre and protein into the mix, making this a wholesome option that helps digestion, especially when the weather’s just turning warm.

Piping hot idli at a roadside stall

Soft, fluffy, and naturally fermented, idlis are one of the easiest things your stomach can deal with. They’re light, break down easily, and bring a little boost of good bacteria along the way. Pair them with coconut chutney and a warm spoonful of sambar, and you’ve got a soothing, balanced plate that keeps things comfortable and your gut calm.

Pani puri’s unexpected gut boost

Yes, pani puri isn’t exactly known for hygiene, but the ingredients in the pani actually do your gut some good. Jeera, hing, mint, and tamarind are all natural digestive boosters. Hing helps with gas, tamarind gets things moving, and mint soothes your stomach. Go for vendors who use clean water and freshly made puris for a safer, happier experience.

Kala chana chaat that keeps things moving

Boiled black chickpeas with onions, tomatoes, and masala, this humble chaat is a fibre powerhouse. Chickpeas help keep things regular, keep you feeling full, and give your gut bacteria something to snack on. Add a squeeze of lemon or a pinch of amchur, and you’re also giving your digestion a little boost to break things down more easily.

Moong chaat for your gut bugs

Sprouted moong chaat isn’t just fresh and flavourful, it’s surprisingly good for your gut too. Once sprouted, moong gets softer and gentler on digestion, while also bringing in more roughage. It gives your gut microbes something to thrive on, without the heaviness or gassy aftermath that regular dals can leave behind.

Handmade thepla rolls from thela stalls

When made right, a methi thepla wrapped with some pickle and sabzi becomes an excellent option for your gut. Methi supports digestion and reduces bloating, while whole wheat or millet flour offers prebiotic fibre. The fermentation that sometimes occurs when thepla dough is rested overnight adds a slight sourness that’s good for gut flora.

Sweet-sour imli candies and churan

You’ve probably grabbed these tangy treats outside school or from a local vendor and they’re more than just addictive. Ingredients like tamarind, ajwain, saunf, and black salt aren’t just there for flavour – they actually help with gas, bloating, and that stuffed feeling after a big meal. They give your digestion a little nudge and help things move along smoothly.

Steamed momos with spicy chutney

Momos may not be fully desi, but they’ve earned their spot on the Indian street food scene. The steamed filling, usually cabbage, ginger, garlic, and onions, is light, full of fibre, and easy on the stomach. And that fiery red chutney? It’s usually loaded with garlic and fermented chilli, which can fire up your digestion and help keep your gut bacteria balanced.