Pumpkin pakora with Crushed Coriander Seeds
Any type of winter squash butternut, acorn, turban or Indian wax gourd (petha) as well as yams or sweet potatoes may be substituted for pumpkin. This is a good batter to make in a food processor, for along with crushing while coriander seeds, the processor makes the batter light and smooth. If you make the batter by hand, add freshly crushed coriander seeds. Preparation time (after assembling ingredients): 10 minutes Resting time:...
Nutritious Whole Grain, Split Pea and Vegetable Soup
This is a quick pressure-cooker soup that is warming, nutritious and very welcome on cold winter days. You can vary this recipe by substituting Parsnips, green beans, zucchini or corn for any of the suggested vegetables. A nice stew can be obtained by adding large, even-sized pieces of potato or winter squash. (You will need to increase the amount of water a bit when cooking these starchy vegetables). Try your own favourite...
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....
Chickpea and Ginger root Salad
Whole chickpeas are soaked overnight, sometimes even slightly sprouted, before being used in this salad. Two types of rhizomes are suitable here: young camphor ginger or ginger-like mango ginger (a member of the turmeric family). Their flesh should be virtually fiber-free, with a thin skin. Because they are only found sporadically, look for young or “green” fresh ginger at the corner produce store or supermarket. This salad was a...
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...