Mathura Special Sweet Lassi...........

Lassi, plain smoothie or cool drink?

You can call it anything! Indeed sweet lassi can be referred as smoothie or cool drink...It is generally served chilled and therefore is a wonderful hot weather coolant drink.

Traditionally Lassi is a yogurt based drink very popular in the Northern & North Western parts of the Indian Subcontinent especially in Haryana, Punjab and Uttar Pradesh..I got this lovely recipe from my friend swati.She had made this for a potluck party and all of us simply loved it!...For the first time I got to know from her that Lassi is one of the major drink of Mathura... Mathura is a religious city from the ancient time period.This Mathura Special Lassi reffered as bridge lassi is a sweet and chilled liquid recipe...prepared from the large quantity of curd and sugar. Dry fruits are added for the best taste.. For good fragrance cardamom and rose essence is added and this makes it unique...

Lassi can be prepared in many different ways...It is made by blending yogurt with water and Indian spices.Traditional lassi (also known as salted lassi, or, simply lassi) is a savory drink sometimes flavored with ground roasted cumin while sweet lassi on the other hand is blended with sugar or fruits instead of spices.In Dharmic religions, yogurt sweetened with honey is used while performing religious rituals. Less common is lassi served with milk and topped with a thin layer of clotted cream.

Sweet lassi is a form of lassi flavored with sugar, rosewater and/or lemon, strawberry or other fruit juices. Saffron lassis, which are particularly rich, are a specialty of Sindh in Pakistan and Jodhpur and Rajasthan in India. Makkhaniya lassi is simply lassi with lumps of butter in it ...hmm isnt it sounds yummy!... It is usually creamy like a milkshake.

Lassis are enjoyed chilled as a hot-weather refreshment, mostly taken with lunch. This drink really helps to cool down when the summer sun is beating hard against the dusty streets.Lassi is a part of daily diet of many people.It is served as a part of all meals. Most people end their meal with a glass of Lassi. It can be taken at any time of the day but is mostly served in the afternoons and evenings.With a little turmeric powder mixed in, it is also used as a folk remedy for gastroenteritis...

This one is very filling and so tasty that you won’t stop at one glass. Here’s how to make this lassi.

MATHURA SPECIAL SWEET LASSI

Ingredients:

2 cup curd (Plain Yogurt)
1/2 cup sugar (or according to your taste)
1 cup water
2 big spoons of rose syrup or rose essence (I used ruafsa syrup)
few crushed ice cubes

For garnishing:

Sprinkle cardamom powder on it
Ice cubes
Chopped pistachio and almonds

Method:

1.In a blender or grinder add sugar, curd , water, rose syrup or rose essence and ice cubes. Blend it well.
2.Now pour it in glass and sprinkle pinch of cardamom powder on it.
3.Garnish with few ice cubes and chopped pistachios and almond pieces.
4.Serve chilled.Iam sure your guests will be delighted on having it.

Note: You can add more or less yogurt or water for a thicker or thinner beverage as per your need and taste.

submiting this recipe for the following events.

a) Serve it-Blended an amazing event @ kirthi's kitchen and oh taste and see....

b) Bon Vivant #6 - Sunny Refreshing Drinks @ Sumee's Culinary Bites

Watermelon Cooler..Thanda Thanda Cool Cool...

Now a days we are experiencing very hot summer days here and temperature is becoming unbearable...All that we crave is for some cool drink which would cool down our bodies.

I am not a great fan of any kind of sodas and I also get bored of store bought juices very soon...So also today I didnt really felt like cooking during afternoon..I wanted to stay away from sandwiches and thought a smoothie or healthy drink would be filling enough to carry me through the afternoon....I had a large piece of watermelon sitting in the refrigerator and decided to use it as the base for a drink...so also would surprise my husband with this one by offering him after his tiresome work at office...for sure he will be delighted as he loves watermelon.

The fact that it is only in season for such a short time means we try to eat it as often as we can during the few summer months when it is at its most refreshing and sweet stage.

Watermelon is a incredibly healthy food for all of us. This delicious food is packed with some of the most powerful antioxidants in nature, including Vitamin C,  Vitamin A and Vitamin B7. These reduce the chance of colon cancer, relieve some symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, according to The World’s Healthiest Foods.

I have, in the past, found few watermelon recipes from internet that was just simple and perfect for what I was looking for. Also There are a lot of recipes floating in cyberspace that sound more like milk shakes than smoothies and I really was looking for something lighter and more healthy...I liked this recipe because It just took five minutes to assemble watermelon drink with less ingredients...so chosed this version.  It's a delicious drink when made with ripe watermelon.It tasted just amazing! Chilled Watermelon juice for a hot day, what else can anyone ask for?... I look forward to have it again and again. I think you might enjoy it as well.

So also This is one of the popular drinks during summer at my native.My mom used to prepare it always for my dad...So here is a summer recipe featuring watermelon flavor....almost loved and liked by kids also...Its really kid friendly recipe...

WATERMELON COOLER-THANDA THANDA COOL COOL

Ingredients:
4 cups cold watermelon chunks
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
Chaat masala as per your taste
8 ice cubes
1 Tbsp lime juice(optional)
1 Tbsp honey or sugar(optional)

I didnt used sugar or honey and lime juice while preparing as my melon was very sweet and my hubby doesnt like lime juice..But still it tasted too good! yes my mom used to add as per her taste.

Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.
Pour into glasses.
Serve chilled.

Also Ginger used here not only adds to taste and flavour but is a classic tonic for the digestive tract. It stimulates digestion and keeps the intestinal muscles toned. It acts as an anti-inflammatory agent and is useful with symptoms of arthritis. It also supports a healthy cardiovascular system.

Sending this to SHOWCASE- Fun in the Sun hosted by Divya...

also to CC-Splash in to summer...hosted by Sravs

and to Let’s Cook # 16 ~ Kids Special hosted by Radhika

Thanks all for wonderful themes.....

Saffron Flavoured Mango Mousse..

A comfort food.... Mangoes really can make us feel better! Beyond being delicious and rich in vitamins, minerals and anti-oxidants, mangoes contain an enzyme with stomach soothing properties similar to papain found in papayas. These comforting enzymes act as a digestive aid and can be held partially responsible for that feeling of contentment we experience during and after our daily mango ritual. Yes, it is quite natural to crave those mangoes!

Mango, both in its green and ripe form is a very good tenderizing agent due to these same enzymes, therefore ideal to include in any marinade. In India a sour mango powder containing ground up green mangos called Amchur, is used both as a seasoning and tenderizing aid.

We all know the importance of fiber in our diets. If we are eating mango-a-day, irregularity is not a problem for us. Research has shown that dietary fiber has a protective effect against degenerative diseases, especially with regards to the heart; may help prevent certain types of cancer, as well as lowering blood cholesterol levels. An average sized mango can contain up to 40% of your daily fiber requirement. For those among us who are physically active, whether working out or constantly on the go, mangos are also a great way to replenish that lost potassium. Deliciously rich in anti-oxidants, potassium and fiber - the mango is the perfect fruit! Truly 'the king of fruit'.

Saffron Flavoured Mango Mousse (Amrakhand) is a quick, easy and fabulously light and airy dessert. It has that “WOW” look that will look like you have put in hours of work in the kitchen. The beautiful color of the Mango, intensified with the color of Saffron, the creaminess of the Sour Cream and cream cheese and the lightness of the plain yogurt, topped with the nutty Pistachios and Almonds! hmmmm...Yummy!...
The combination is “melt in your mouth goodness”.Call it a “Saffron Flavoured Mango Mousse” or your version of “Kesar Mango Shrikhand” or "Amrakhand" – this one is a winner of hearts! for sure...It is unavoidable also for those who dont have sweet tooth...

SAFFRON FLAVOURED MANGO MOUSSE

Prep Time: 15 min
Chill Time: 1 hour
Serves: 4-6

Ingredients:
Mango pulp – more than 1/2 cup (I used sweetened mango pulp)
Sugar – 1/4 cup + 2 tbsp or to taste (Reduce the amount of sugar as your mango pulp is already sweetened one)
Cream Cheese – 1 cup or 8 oz, at room temperature (optional)
Sour Cream – 2 cup (if using cream cheese then only 1 cup)
yogurt-2 tbsp
Saffron (Kesar) – pinch
Milk – 1 Tbsp
Cardamom Powder – 1 tsp
Chopped Pistachios and almonds – 2 Tbsp, chopped

Procedure:
1. Warm up Milk and soak the Saffron in it.
2. Set aside till ready to use.
3. Take measured amount of mango pulp in food processor.
4. Add Sugar and give it a couple of quick pulses.
5. Roughly cube the Cream Cheese and add to the Food Processor.
6. To this add in Sour Cream, yogurt ,Saffron soaked in Milk and Powdered Cardamom.
7. Close Food Processor and mix well.
8. Half way through you can do the taste test and make sure the Sugar is right on for you.
9. Add 3/4th of the chopped Pistachios and almonds to the food processor, save balance of the nuts for topping.
10. Give the mousse one more quick pulse.
11. Transfer into a serving dish.
12. Garnish with the balance of the Pistachios and almonds and a few stands of Saffron (optional).You can also add cashewnuts and pecans or walnuts or any other dryfruits of your choice.
13. Allow it to chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour.
15. Serve Chilled.

Note:If food processor is not available you can mix it in grinder or blender else if nothing is available then also dont worry...you can simply mix all ingredients in perfectly measured quantity ...and mix it thoroughly with the help of spoon...It tastes amazingly fabulous!

This one goes straight to the event..Mango Mania 99 @ The Pumpkin Farm.

Mast event dear Pradnya...I loved it...Absolutely perfect for this season....

Plush Purple Beauty....

I don’t know about you, but I am definitely ready for summer! For those lucky enough to be living in the southern half of the US, spring has arrived and that means season of fruits! After a winter full of earth-toned root vegetables, seeing amazing juicy fruits with their sweet perfume at the market is like seeing the light of a warm fire in the middle of a blizzard..

And with all these juicy, sweet fruits I’m looking for lots of delicious ways to enjoy them especially smoothies in summer..Smoothies are ideal for replacing meals, for a nutritious treat or even for a fast meal on the run.

A smoothie is a delicious drink made with various fruits and vegetables blended perfectly into a smooth liquid. It's just like a milkshake packed with nutrients...and it's healthy for you.This smoothie, however, has all the flavor of the traditional poolside drink also.

with this you can enjoy the perfect afternoon treat! This is my contribution to the event cool summer sips hosted by Jyoti....this one is for you dear Jyoti...Enjoy your virtual treat with grapes smoothie...great event..perfect for summer...

Grapes, “queen of the fruits” are storehouse of numerous health promoting phyto-nutrients such as poly-phenolic antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. So, include them in your regular diet, be it in the form of fresh fruits, juice or in salads!The combination of unique texture and sweet, tart flavor has made grapes an ever popular between-meal snack as well as a refreshing addition to both fruit and vegetable salads.

Botanically, they are small round berries;that feature semi-translucent flesh encased by a smooth skin. grow in clusters on a perennial and deciduous woody vine of the genus: Vitis.Like blueberries, grapes are often covered by a protective, whitish bloom. Grapes are native to Europe and Mediterranean regions but now widely cultivated all over the planet.

The health benefits of grapes include its ablity to treat constipation, indigestion, fatigue, kidney disorders, macular degeneration and prevention of cataract. Grapes, one of the most delicious fruits, are rich sources of vitamins A, C, B6 and folate in addition to essential minerals like potassium, calcium, iron, phosphorus, magnesium and selenium. Grapes contain flavonoids that are very powerful antioxidants, which can reduce the damage caused by free radicals and slacken ageing.

I think smoothie is the perfect delicious way to consume fruits and derive maximum energy from them.I recommend this as a powerful way to start the day or an amazing post-run energizer.

Here is the recipe for you all...You will surely enjoy it...just try it once!

PLUSH PURPLE BEAUTY

Ingredients:
1 cup Red seedless grapes
1/2 cup unsweetened grape used:I used welch's grape juice.
1/2 cup heavy whipped cream.
2 tbsp of sugar or honey as per your taste.
4-5 scoops of vanilla ice-cream:I used french vanilla
7-8 Ice-cubes:I used crushed form of ice.

Method:
1.Blend nicely only grapes first to a smooth paste.otherwise its peels(outer skin) does not tastes good.
2.Add grape juice,whipped cream and sugar.
3.Now add ice-cream,ice-cubes both
4.Your smoothie is ready you can add milk if you like but without milk also it tastes good.

Enjoy Cool drink!

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Also linking this to the event: "Jump' N Jive @ Icypritz"...Thanks preeti for hosting this wonderful event.

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Dates cup-cake containing no egg......

Cakes...hmmm Yummy! Who doesn't like cakes and pastries? Hearing the name only our mouth starts watering..Cake is My husbands favourite evening snacks..I dont have sweet tooth but cakes and gulab jamuns are two exceptions to it.

He simply loves cakes and I get to experiment a lot.After coming to US... toh puchoo hi mat..we dont even wait till first cake is over and we make another one..seeing the oven,availability of cake mixes in shops and other raw materials..we are always excited to make cakes...We generally prefer readymade cake mixes but this cupcakes.. we tried everything from scratch..and was trilled. I can say my baking skills have improved in last few weeks.

Yesterday as usual I was chatting with my mom on phone..everyday I complain my mom about sweet mischeifs played by me dear son ARNAV...because she is the only one who can understand both me and my cute monster.Indeed time flies like anything..I remember few days before I was just packing things for my journey to US and had just celebrated my son's 1st b'day and now within 3 months he will be turning two yrs old...I cannot believe it sometimes. We are busier than ever, but at the same time he is keeping us happy with his little mischiefs. I get choked up when I hear him talking in his baby words and when he learns something new – like today when he jumped from his high chair all by himself...I was terribly afraid but seeing everything is all right I was relieved...I thought... My baby is all grown up!

As I informed this to my mom she started reminding me about nutritional facts that I should include in my baby's diet so that he will be more stronger...Also she gave lecture on values of dates and almonds both . Every time we discuss about it, I go and buy one pack of almond and dates. Last week, I found I had a huge pack of dates and almonds at home. So I just plonderring about what is to be done..?

Dates were sadly looking at me as they were kept unattended...Feeling pity on dates I thought of making cake with them.So also while updating my blog just glanced through the events and was amazed to see this theme...I was so very excited with this theme as I got another chance to make my husband happy by gifting him with his all time favourite cake!Thanks to you a lot!This is my entry for CEED..... As Iam new to this bloggy world initially I didnt understand many terms used by other bloggers but now I have started becoming familiar with it..so happens with word CEED anyways...

This is my contribution to cook.eat.delicious-desserts:"Dates" and giveaway.. hosted by Nithu...Thanks dear for the lovely event..and I think giveaway makes it more interesting and competetive both...Also as per your request linking to CookEatDelicious.com.

The cupcakes turned out to be awesome.Do try it I promise it will be delicious in taste.This sweet is also for a sweet little princess. My sister got engaged last week and though I was not there to share the special moments, I celebrated in my own way by eating these cupcakes.Here's the recipe for you all..

This one is dedicated to all veggie lovers who does not even looks towards eggs...like my mom.

DATES CUP-CAKE CONTAINING NO EGG.....

Cake prior to baking

Cake after baking is done

Ingredients:

20 dates.

1 cup milk.

1 cup sugar.

1 cup maida or all purpose flour.

1 tsp of baking soda.

1/2 cup butter or oil

1 tbsp cashewnut,almonds,walnut,pecans or dry fruit of your choice-I used cashewnuts and almonds.

1 tsp of baking powder.

Procedure:

1.Soak dates in warm milk overnight or for 7-8 hours so that they become soft and easy for grinding.

2.Or if you are in hurry you can heat milk in microwave and allow dates to soak for few minutes and they you can easily grind it.

3.Add sugar will grinding itself.

4.Grind all to a smooth paste.

5.Now add melted butter or oil to it-I used oil while doing it.

6.Sieve together maida,baking soda and baking powder.

7.Now add this mixture little by little to above made smooth paste.

8.Mix everything slowly and nicely at least giving 30-40 rounds either with hand or with blender.

9.Add dryfruits to it and mix again.

10.Preheat oven to 350 degrees and prepare your cup-cake tray.

11.Pour the prepared batter in cup-cake tray.

12.Allow it to bake in oven for 30-40 minutes.

And you will be amazed to see the result....the brown color looks so very good that you cannot wait even till your cake is cooled so that you can enjoy eating!
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Also linking this article to the event Lets Bake Cupcakes and Muffins.. lovely event....

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Healthy Muskmelon Chiller...

Introduction: Muskmelon, commonly referred to as cantaloupe, is a fruit in the same family of cucumbers. This fruit has orange flesh and a beige, netted skin, as well as a musky, sweet scent.

Applications: Muskmelon commonly finds use mixed with other fruits in salads, served alone, or wrapped with prosciutto as a savory appetizer. It offers a range of nutritional value.

Health & Nutrition Benefits of Eating Muskmelons :

1.Muskmelon comprises of a significant amount of dietary fiber, making it good for those suffering from constipation.
2.Since the fruit is not high in sugar or calories, it serves as a good snack for all those who are trying to lose weight and maintain a healthy body.
3.The potassium present in muskmelons makes them quite helpful in the lowering of blood pressure.
4.The fruit has been associated with regulating heart beat and, possibly, preventing strokes.
5.Researches have suggested that muskmelons might reduce the risk of developing kidney stones and age-related bone loss.
6.Being rich in Vitamin C, an antioxidant, the fruit has been believed to be good for preventing heart diseases, cancer and other chronic ailments.
7.Muskmelons have been found to have sedative properties, making them beneficial for the people who are suffering from insomnia.
8.The fruit has almost zero cholesterol and thus, is safe for the people who suffer from the problem of high blood cholesterol.
9.Regular consumption of muskmelon juice can help treat lack of appetite, acidity, ulcer and urinary tract infections.
10.Since it has high water content, the fruit can help reduce the heat in the body and thus, prevent heat-related disorders.
11.The fruit proves to be a good source of vitamin A and thus, helps maintain healthy skin.
12.The folic acid present in muskmelons helps create healthy fetuses (in pregnant women) and can even prevent cervical cancer and osteoporosis. It also serves as a mild antidepressant.
Thus it has many health benefits.

If you are feeling too tired on a hot summer day, consume a muskmelon and you will find yourself refreshed and energized.Very true...now that we are suffering badly from scorching heat of the sun we will be happy if anybody  offers  us cool sherbet or ice-cream so as to get rid of heat..
Yesterday I offered cool muskmelon sherbat to my husband when he returned from the office after tiresome work and seeing that he was so very delighted that I cannot express it in words...I thought this is perfect for my blog so that others can also make their husbands happy...so also was excited to see the event spotlight:summer cooler:Thanda Thanda, cool cool as it is golden oppurtunity for me to post my article...Thanks for the superb event...

This is my contribution to Summer Cooler : Thanda Thanda, Cool Cool. hosted by Indrani.

I learnt this recipe from my mother-in-law which is very easy,can be done quickly and is very much refreshing  during summer...Please try it you will surely love it...

Here is the recipe for you all..

HEALTHY MUSKMELON CHILLER

Ingredients:

1 muskmelon chopped into pieces.
1 tsp of cumin powder
1/2 lemon
salt as per your taste.
water
7-8 Ice cubes or crushed ice

Method:
1.Blend the pieces of muskmelon in the grinder.
2 Dont add water initially while grinding make only pure pulp of melon.
3 Now add little bit of salt,Jeera powder and lemon.
4.Crush7-8 pieces of ice to it.
5.Now you can add water in as much quantity as you want.
6.Remember this being sherbat it contains water is large amount.
7.Taste it add little more salt if you want and serve chilled.

You are bound to enjoy it.....

Strawberry Banana Delight....

For me Fruit=taste+flavour+nutrition+satiety!

Fruits are readily available and good source of vitamins and minerals A fruit will boost you instantly. It is something which can quench your thirst and satisfy your hunger at the same time,specially in summer,Fruits are guardian angels for all the busy bees. Since its handy they can be eaten even on the move.

Fruits are meant to be nutritious and are our sole companion which makes them our best friends! When it comes to the uses of fruits, it is never-ending! Fruits give you all the essential nutrients and are rich in vitamins like C and A.

Hence try to include them in your daily diet....I love fruits unconditionally...especially strawberries so you will find many recipes in my blog are related to strawberries...Hence Iam trilled on seeing this theme...This is my contribution to event Bon vivant#4-Fruit recipes...hosted by sumee...Thanks for this superb event...Hugs to you, sumee...

Strawberries, the small red fruits clad in scarlet red, dotted with tiny seeds and wearing green little caps, make one of the most deliciously attractive fruits on Earth!

Interestingly, strawberries are not fruits. They are enlarged receptacles of the flowers and are hence known as a secondary fruit.Strawberry is the only berry that has seeds on its external surface. The other berries have seeds inside. A single strawberry has 200 tiny seeds. They are also the first ones to ripen in spring.Strawberries used to be the darling of spring's transition into summer, with local varieties only available for the month of June. But now, with farm-fresh produce available year-round, you can enjoy this fruit anytime your strawberry-shaped heart desires.

Strawberries are low in fat content and calorie. They are rich in vitamin C, fiber, folic acid as well as potassium. They can reduce the risk of cancers and heart attacks. Strawberry intake helps in the reduction of systolic blood pressure. Fresh juice from strawberry pulp helps in recovering from fever. Strawberry juice, if combined with honey can reduce inflammation. It has a curative effect on sunburns.

Heart-shaped and as juicy as a good love story, a bright-red strawberry is a natural symbol of love.Thus Strawberries have since long been associated with love. Some consider strawberries as a symbol of Venice, the Goddess of Love. During the olden days, newlyweds were served strawberries. During the medieval times, strawberry designs were painted on altars and pillars of churches to symbolize righteousness. Some believe that on splitting a double strawberry into two and sharing it with the opposite sex may lead you to fall in love with him/her! A recent survey has revealed that those who love strawberries are of a fun-loving nature while those who hate strawberries are weird morons. You love strawberries, don't you?

Also bananas has wide applications in our life...

Bananas consist mainly of sugars (glucose, fructose and sucrose) and fiber, which makes them ideal for an immediate and slightly prolonged source of energy.

Bananas contain tryptophan, an aminoacid that can be converted to serotonin, leading to improved mood thereby reduces depression.

Bananas are relatively high in iron, which helps the body’s hemoglobin function.

Due to their content in fiber, they help restore a normal bowel function. They also contain pectin, a soluble fiber (hydrocolloid) that can help normalize movement through the digestive tract.

Banana plays major role in Eyesight Protection.Bananas are an exceptionally rich source of fructooligosaccharide, a compound that nourishes probiotic (friendly) bacteria in the colon.

In addition, green bananas contain indigestible short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that are very nutrient to the cells that make up the mucosa of the stomach. These cells, when healthy, absorb calcium much more efficiently consumption of whole fruits and vegetables, especially bananas, is highly protective tokidney health. It has ability to reduce the risk of blood pressure and stroke.

Bananas have a natural antacid effect in the body, so if you suffer from heartburn,try eating a banana for soothing relief.Snacking on bananas between meals helps to keep blood-sugar levels up and avoid
morning sickness.

Bananas can also help people trying to give up smoking. They contain vitamins B6 and B12 they contain, as well as potassium and magnesium: these substances help the body recover from the effects of nicotine withdrawal.

This is the only raw fruit that can be eaten without distress in over-chronicle cases. It also helps reduce acidity and reduces irritation. Bananas stimulate the cells on the internal stomach lining to produce a thicker mucus (which protects against acid).

Additionally, bananas contain protease inhibitors that help eliminate bacteria in the stomach that have been pinpointed as a primary cause of ulcers.

Bananas are high in B vitamins that have been shows to improve nerve function.

Many people report that rubbing the inside of a banana peel on a mosquito bite is very effective in reducing itching and swelling.

Bananas are high in potassium, which helps normalize the hearthbeat and regulate the body’s water balance. During periods of high stress, our body’s potassium levels tend to be rapidly depleted: eating bananas is a healthy way to rebalance them without using drugs eating bananas as part
of a regular diet can reduce the risk of death by strokes by as much as 40%.

seeing these many benefits of banana I can say that..

Instead of eating an apple each day for optimum health, the adage should state that a banana each day keeps the doctor away.

There's nothing any simpler than this...It is refreshing and easy to make and super quick...

STRAWBERRY BANANA DELIGHT

Time required:10 minutes
serves:2

Ingredients:
4 strawberries
1/2 cup milk
1 ripe banana
2 tbsp strawberry yogurt
5-6 ice cubes
1 tbsp sugar or 1/2 tbsp honey
2 tbsp of whipped cream
2 scoops of french vanilla ice-cream

Method:
1Using a blender grind strawberries
2.Peel banana and break it up
3 Add milk,banana,yogurt and whipped cream to above mix.
2.Ice blend it until perfectly smooth that is blend it to perfect consistency.
3.Add sugar or honey if required
4.blend it for 1 more min
5.Place mixture in glass and add scoop of french vanilla on it.
5 Immediately serve it as if kept for long time banana may turn black in color and ice-cream will also start melting.
So enjoy.....

Strawberry Cake

Yeah we baked a cake...After getting comfortable with cooking vegetables, somewhat getting accustomed to make round chapatis.. I deceided it was time to try my hand on baking....so when I saw this theme I smiled to myself...Perfect I had prepared the cake just two days before and now I have golden chance to upload it.Unlike my baking experiments in which everytime I purchase readymade cake mix from the store,this time I baked it from scratch like my mother-in-law.For all those who have never tried strawberry cake before please try it ...as it tasted wonderful.This one is my contribution to event showcase -desserts hosted by Divya...Its an amazing event for an(boulangere meaning female baker) and also who are fans of desserts...Thanks for an oppurtunity dear...

 

I dont know why but I its really pains me a lot if I see fruits decaying...I think Iam murdering them and snatching their life so also wasting money...I hear crying sound from them which panics me a lot...hence I usually see to it that we consume it as soon as they are brought from the market..but sometimes it may happen that we concentrate on eating other stuffs ,dont feel like eating it or wait till it gets ripened leaving it as it is on table or fridge.This time there were few strawberries that were demanding our attention.I was pondering what to do with this then I remembered that my hubby loves all types of cakes a lot and I wanted to carry out my first  baking expt also so deceided that I will bake strawberry cake..I searched a lot for recipe... on google it yielded many results but fianlly I jotted down this easy recipe ...

This being my first experience to bake each and everything from scratch..I sent my husband to bring few things from the store that are common for almost all cakes-sugar,blender,baking powder, baking pan(13*9 inch),measuring cup etc... with this i was all set up and ready to start my first baking adventure on afternoon of 11th MAY 2012 .Here's the recipe for a wonderful strawberry cake

STRAWBERRY CAKE

Ingredients:
7 tbsp of unsalted butter
2 &1/2 cup All purpose flour or maida
1 cup Sugar in cake batter & 2 tsp for strawberries.
1 cup milk
2 cup strawberries
few drops of lemon juice for strawberries.
5 tsp of baking powder.
little bit of salt say 1/4th tsp.
3 Eggs

Method:
1.Wash and chop finely 2 cups of strawberries
2.Sprinkle 2 tsp of sugar and few drops of lemon juice on chopped strawberries.
3Take melted butter in big vessel and start pouring sugar on it and mix it thoroughly.that is cream it nicely.
4.Take baking powder,salt and Maida.Mix it nicely.
5.Now add little above made mixed flour little by little to creamed butter and sugar.
6.Also add little milk and mix it.
7.This way add flour and little milk and egg which has been beaten nicely and mix it everytime you add milk.
8 when u mix it thorougly giving at least 40 to 50 rounds by blender add strawberries to it.
9 again mix it nicely.
10.see to it that strawberries are inserted inside cake batter.
11.Now grease baking pan with butter and little flour.
12.Preheat oven to 375 degrees
13.Bake it for 30-35 minutes.
14.Your cake is ready...Enjoy it with chilled milk..
15.Store it in refrigerator and enjoy it chilled.it tastes more Yummy!...

Storing it in refrigerator increases its shelf life...Recent research has shown strawberries to be a surprisingly fragile, perishable, and delicate fruit. On average, studies show 2 days as the maximal time for strawberry storage without major loss of vitamin C and polyphenol antioxidants. It's not that strawberries become dangerous to eat or invaluable after 2 days. It's just that more storage time brings along with it substantially more nutrient loss.But when u make cake of strawberry you can enjoy it at least for 10 days....sn't it amazing!

Strawberry Blast

Have You ever visited a farm and picked sweet ripened strawberries in as much quantity as u desire? No na...In India you wont but here in USA We got an oppurtunity to pluck and eat it as much as we want...

Last saturday-5th May 2012 we visited Huber farm.This farm grows seasonal fruits and veggies and offers free pick and eat facility.This being spring-strawberry season, we enjoyed strawberry festival in orchard.There is a tractor that takes you to the farm which is free of cost.Here you are supposed to collect as many fresh, delicious, mouthwatering strawberries as you want directly from the bush.We had never seen strawberry bushes before so were very amazed to see rows and rows of small bushes.All u have to do is start plucking strawberries in the tray provided for collection and eating as many as you can and buy rest of the berries at minimal cost.I visited along with my friends in Louisville... we were competing who would collect best berries and who would consume maximum berries? This competition gave us a chance to enjoy  tastiest juicy plumiest strawberries never tasted in life before.

We also tasted homemade strawberry ice-creams over here.Also I felt in love with cherry vanilla flavoured ice-cream that I had never seen before but enjoyed to full extent.Me and my hubby---ice-cream lovers tried lot many flavours.Nikhil tasted for the strawberry wine at local winery.Well during our checkout we payed the bill and purchased strawberries that we collected  in a tray along with blue berry pound cake which was also amazingly good.

When we returned home I promised Nikhil to do variety of starwberry recipes as I can within 2 days only as stawberries are very perishable and spoils very soon.We prepared strawberry sundae,strawberry banana smoothie with ice-cream,strawberry muramba.I searched for many recipes on internet like strawberry shortcake,Strawberry jelly cake,strawberry jello pie,strawberry jam and many more,.seeing delicious strawberries Nikhil invented new dessert-strawberry blast which was too good as it consists of whipped cream.This solved our strawberry consumption problem and it turned out to be one of the best recipes we ever tried .Here is the recipe for u all...Hope you all will enjoy it.

STRAWBERRY BLAST

Ingredients:

10-12 strawberries.

Whipped Cream bottle.

2 scoops of French Vanilla ice-cream.

2 spoons of honey(optional)

Time taken:2 minutes

serves:2

Method:

1.Chop each strawberry in to 4 pieces.

2.Arrange it in circular manner in a bowl

3.Pour whipped cream on it

4.At the center place 1 scoop of vanilla ice-cream.

5.Add few drops of honey on it.

Enjoy it...u can add more ice-cream if u like ...u can try with strawberry ice-cream also...

Its perfect and easy dessert to enjoy in summer...

Linking this recipe to the event..Bon Vivant #4- Fruit recipes hosted by Sumee.Thanks for the lovely event-perfect for summer...

Cucumber Lassi

Being a new blogger, Iam slowly getting accustomed to all the blog events.Its really fun participating it.

Here is my entry for the event Tomato Blues-Summer Spirits-

Its an event where all the food bloggers especially from USA look forward to it.I loved this theme as after coming to US only I discovered my Love towards Summer... as I was fed up with winter and that freezing Jacket..I have realized that Summer is only the perfect time of enjoyment!

It has really made earth come back to life after a long cold winter."And so with the sunshine and the great bursts of leaves growing on the trees, just as things grow in fast movies, I had that familiar conviction that life was beginning over again with the summer."

Humans have ended their hibernation phase and are seen out on Jogging track moving along with their cute pets.Sun has made nature to wear a beautiful green gown.Variety of pansies have started blooming.Flowers are dancing on vernal winds,Bees and butterflies have started humming.Also Summer-season to have the king of fruits - mango, reminds us with lovely recipes of ice-creams,cakes, pastries,juices and lot more....

Cucumber Lassi is a very refreshing drink and perfect way to end your dinner as during summer due to scorching heat of sun our hunger is reduced to some extent.We love if somebody offers us glass full of coolant,after spicy dinner.So here's recipe of cucumber lassi-to be enjoyed in summer..Before I start chattering on my recipe..I would like to quote here that cucumber has wide applications in health benefits.Cucumbers contain enough sugar, B vitamins and electrolytes to replenish essential nutrients the body lost, keeping everything in equilibrium, avoiding both a hangover and headache!!

Fresh and crunchy cucumbers(Botanical name-Cucumis sativus) even though mostly composed of water, they still pack a lot of nutrition.The flesh of cucumbers is a very good source of vitamins A, C, and folic acid which is widely used in this recipe thereby making it highly valuable.Also The hard skin is rich in fiber and a variety of minerals including  magnesium, silica, molybdenum and potassium.It is an excellent source of silica, which is a trace mineral that contributes to the strength of our connective tissue and promotes joint health.

Cucumbers are effective when used for various skin problems, including swelling under the eyes and sunburn.It helps splitting and spoiling of nails of fingers and toes.Also due to presence of sulphur and silicon it stimulates hair growth.  They also contain ascorbic and caffeic acids.  These acids prevent water retention and keep our body hydrated,acts as diuretic.Cures diabetes and reduces cholesterol levels in the body. That may explain why when cucumbers are applied topically they are often helpful for swollen eyes, burns, and dermatitis.  They fight cancers,controls Blood Pressure,Is beneficial for teeth and gums.Cucumbers aids digestion and treat tapeworms that harbour our stomach.It relives gout and arthritis.It aids in weight loss due to its large amount of water content.

Enjoy and celebrate summer with this beautiful recipe-Cucumber Lassi-in order to derive maximum health benefits and live healthy life!

CUCUMBER LASSI

Ingredients:
3-4 small cucumbers.
2 cups sweet curd.
5-6 Pudina leaves or Coriander sticks.
salt as per your taste.
1/4th tsp of Black pepper powder.
1/4th tsp of Cumin powder.
5-6 Ice cubes

Method:
1)Peel 1 cucumber and cut it into small pieces or cubes.
2)Now make slices of remaning cucumbers.
3)Cook these slices on heat by adding 2 cups of water untill they change their color and appear to be cooked and become soft in texture.
4)Remove it from heat and Allow it to cool.
5)Grind those slices in mixer or blender..
6)To grinded mixture add blended sweet curd,salt,chopped pudina leaves or finely chopped coriander leaves.
7)Mix everything together nicely.
8)Add ice -cubes to it.
9)Now add pinch of cumin powder and Black pepper powder.
10)Pour it in glass.
11)Now decorate your drink by placing chopped pieces of cucumber on top of it.
12)Enjoy your drink chilled...and offer it to your guests...Iam sure they are bound to love it.

Note:You can also add buttermilk masala to it. This adds more taste to your lassi.You can buy masala readymade from any Indian shop or can prepare at home.
Method to prepare it at home.(Take all ingredients in the quantity as per your taste-Iodised salt,Black salt,Cumin,Dry ginger,Black pepper,turmeric,asafoetida...all must be in powdered form)

Oreo Brownie Earthquake...

Finally after biding Bye-bye to winter,summer has knocked our doors...I was looking forward to it as I was terribly tired of snowfall and wanted to enjoy summer of USA.With the onset of spring... trees are gifted back their dresses,birds have started coming out of their hiding places,flowers have started blooming and sun have started peeping in...and we can go out without those heavy jackets....but this time we need to protect our skin from scorching heat of the sun...still I love summer...because summer reminds us of desserts..like cakes,pastries,ice-creams,smoothies...oh la la yummy! and lot more.

This is my article for Showcase-Desserts hosted by Divya

 

Thanks Divya for this lovely theme...I think its perfect for summer....I liked the theme as dessets are very dear to me....Last sunday I had an oppurtunity to visit St Mathews mall near our apartment...It was afternoon and for the first time we experienced scorching heat of sun here in US...we took the advantage of the situation and enjoyed special dish...OREO BROWNIE EARTHQUAKE-It is beautiful combination of crushed oreo cookies with chewy chocolate brownie pieces blended with hot chocolate fudge and creamy french vanilla soft serve.It was too good.We deceided that we are going to try this at home...the very next day we did it and it tasted fabulous..so would like to share this recipe with u all....u will surely love it!

Components:-

3 scoops of french vanilla ice-cream.
1 oreo cream biscuit.
1 Brownie.
Chocolate sauce as you desire.

Method:-
1.In a bowl take 3 scoops of ice-cream.
2.Add crushed pieces of Oreo cream biscuit.
3.Now add brownie pieces over it.
4.Pour either hot or cold chocolate sauce on it
5.Mix together and enjoy....

I know surely you will be thinking what I have prepared here...nothing...but yes you can surely make brownies at home ..My blog with provide you with the same.still my blog being in testing phase may take some time.Else you can buy brownies from store and make this dish at home within very few minutes and enjoy....no need to waste dollars on this simple but sweet and easy dish on shop which can be made at home within no time.