Savory Butter Crackers with Lemon
In Bengal, there are two types of gaja: salty and sweet. Within these two types, several shapes and flavors are possible: poppy seed cubes, sesame seed oblongs, kalonji curls and this variation: lemon zest diamonds. These crackers are somewhat crumbly, with a faintly sour taste. They are a much-loved delicacy throughout Orissa and Bengal, popular at late afternoon tiffin with contrasting sweet gaja and tropical fresh fruits....
Eggless Christmas Cupcakes
Ingredients • Self raising flour – 450g + Plain flour – 50g • Mixed dried fruits (I used a mixture of dates, apricots, prunes, cranberries, raisins, sultanas and cherries) – 350g • Dark brown sugar (such as muscavado) – 320g • Sparkling water – 250ml • Chopped pecans – 80g • Ground almonds – 100g • Baking soda – 1 tsp • Baking powder – 2 tsp • Ground mixed spice (cloves, nutmeg,...
Cauliflower and potato Surprise
Although this was one of four cauliflower and potato vegetables served at a recipe testing banquet, it was unanimously voted the favorite. It is indeed popular through out much of North India, this version a long-time secret from the Shashi gupta family of Kurukshetra. I noticed that although undeniably rich, it is always one of the first to disappear at holiday dinners. I often use homemade yogurt, or good commercial yogurt like...
Baked Eggplant Puree with Seasoned Yogurt
Eggplant bharta, in one form or another, is a national favorite of India. I learned to make this variation during my first Bombay residence in the kitchen of the Kalish Seksaria family. The cooks excel at several regional cuisines, and this Punjabi-style presentation was a favorite of hosts and wood fire until they nearly fell apart. Chilies and seasonings gave the dish a feisty punch, and the yogurt added creamy distinction....
Beet Raita
Ingredients • Raw beets, peeled, grated – 1 cup • Ghee – 2 tbsp • Mustard seeds – 1/2 tbsp • Cumin – 1/2 tsp • Small green chili, chopped – 1/2 • Curry leaves – 5 • Hing – 1 pinch • Yogurt – 1 cup • Cilantro – 1 tbsp • Salt, as desired Preparation 1. In hot ghee, fry the mustard seeds and cumin, chili and curry leaves. When the mustard seeds stop popping, add the hing. Pour...