Sarson ka Saag is not just a North Indian winter dish, it is an emotion. Made with fresh winter greens this curry is bursting with warm, rustic flavours and nutrition. Serve it with a generous dollop of homemade butter, hot makki roti and jaggery for a heart-warming meal.

Come winters, making sarson da saag and makki roti is an absolute must. But traditionally, making sarson ka saag is quite a lengthy process that involves cooking the leafy greens in a large earthen pot until they’re soft and mushy. It is then ground to a coarse paste using a wooden whisk, before finally tempering it with ghee, onions, tomatoes and a few spices.

But my sarson ka saag recipe is simpler and a whole lot quicker. We use a pressure cooker to cook the greens a lot faster, before tempering it as usual. But don’t worry, using a pressure cooker doesn’t affect the taste or texture in way.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• By pressure cooking the greens, the cooking time is reduced to nearly half and the entire dish comes together in less than an hour. 
• It is the perfect way to include greens and other fresh winter produce in your family’s diet. 
• Despite its long list of ingredients, this dish is surprisingly easy to make.
• Can be made in a large batch and frozen for future use.
• Can be made ahead as this dish tastes a lot better the next day.
• The combination of leafy greens makes this dish a rich source of fibre, antioxidants and vitamins.
• This recipe is naturally gluten free and can be easily made vegan by excluding ghee and curd. 

Ingredient you Need

Here are the main ingredients you’ll need to make some delicious sarson ka saag this winter:

• Sarson/mustard leaves: Sarson or mustard leaves have a dark green colour and a sharp, pungent taste. This winter produce is the star ingredient of this recipe. While it is best to use fresh leaves, you can easily replace them with pre-cut, cleaned and even frozen mustard leaves.
• Other greens: This recipe uses spinach and bathua leaves to balance out the sharp taste of sarson and add a dash of earthiness. If you don’t have access to bathua, you can easily replace it with methi (fresh fenugreek leaves), kale, collard greens or arugula.
• Radish and radish greens: Radish and radish greens enhance the flavour of mustard.
• Ginger and garlic: For flavour, balance and aroma
• Green garlic: Optional but adding a dash of green garlic when cooking the greens makes this more garlicky
• Makki atta: Makki atta or maize flour is used to thicken and make the saag creamy
• Ghee: Ghee is used along with mustard oil in the tempering process
• White butter: A must in my opinion for a well rounded flavour

How to make Sarson ka Saag

1. Pressure cook mustard leaves, bathua, spinach, radish leaves, radish, green garlic, ginger, garlic, green chillies with a cup of water for 2-3 whistles or approx 10-15 minutes
2. Let the steam escape completely before opening the pressure cooker
3. Let this cool and grind only the greens to a coarse paste, while reserving any water in the pressure cooker.
4. I prefer using a stick blender so I can control the blending. The consistency should be coarse and it should look like the greens were chopped finely. If you don’t have a stick blender, pulse the mixture in a mixture grinder and check every few seconds

5. Heat mustard oil and ghee and add jeera, ginger, garlic, green chilli paste.

6. Saute for a minute and add onions. Cook till translucent

7. Add tomatoes, chilli powder and salt and cook till mushy.

8. Add the greens mixture to the onion tomato paste

8. Also add the reserved water plus an additional half cup of water and cook for 5-10 minutes till you start seeing some oil on top.

9. Whisk together curd and makki atta and add the mixture along with jaggery to the pan. Bring this to a quick boil while stirring continuously to avoid any lumps.

10. Once it starts boiling; reduce the flame, adjust water if required and cook covered for 5-10 minutes or till you start seeing specks of fat float on top. Add a big dollop of makhan on top.

11. Serve hot with makki ki rotis

Richa’s Top Tips

• Leafy greens are usually covered in dirt and mud. Thoroughly wash the leaves under running water to get rid of all the impurities before cooking them.
• Since we are grinding the greens in this recipe, there’s no need to chop them. But if you want to try the traditional method of using a wooden whisk to mash the greens, make sure to finely chop all the greens before adding them to the pressure cooker.
• Sarson da saag usually has a coarse, creamy texture. I like to achieve this using a stick blender in place of the usual mixture-grinder. A stick blender allows for better control and helps me attain that beautiful coarse texture every time. 
• If you don’t have a stick blender, pulse the mixture in a mixture grinder and check every few seconds.
• This recipe can even be prepared with frozen greens. Just thaw and squeeze out any excess liquid before cooking it.

Storage Tips

• If you are making a large batch, refrigerate the extra saag in an airtight container without tempering. This saag recipe stays good in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• It’s also very freezer-friendly and can be frozen for up to a month. 

Customisation Tips

• For a more wholesome dish, you can always add paneer or chicken to the saag. Check out my recipes for authentic saag paneer and saag chicken for some inspiration.
• If you don’t have access to any greens mentioned in the recipe (except sarson), feel free to replace it with methi (fresh fenugreek leaves), kale, collard greens or arugula.

Serving Ideas

• Serve hot sarson ka saag with makki di roti and a generous dollop of white butter or homemade makhan on top.
• Pair it with steamed basmati rice for a comforting, everyday meal.
• Add a side of jaggery or gur to balance the earthy bitterness of the greens.
• Serve alongside cucumber raita and sliced onions with lemon and green chillies for freshness and crunch.
• Turn leftovers into a fuller spread by pairing the saag with plain parathas or rotis for an easy next-day lunch.

Sarson ka saag is the perfect dish to celebrate winters and the bountiful fresh produce. The creamy texture and the garlic-y rustic flavours are sure to leave you craving for more.

If you make this recipe, don’t forget to tag me on stories and send me your recreations over in my DMs @my_foodstory.

Watch Sarson Ka Saag Recipe Video

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Punjabi Style Sarson ka Saag

Make the most amazing creamy, spicy sarson ka saag that hits all the right notes when eaten with makki di roti and a big dollop of makhan or white butter. This recipe is bursting with flavour and really celebrates winter greens!

Course Main Course

Cuisine North Indian, Punjabi

Diet Gluten Free, Vegetarian

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 40 minutes minutes

Total Time 55 minutes minutes

Servings 6 people

Calories 289kcal

Author Richa

Equipment

• Pressure Cooker

Ingredients

Pressure Cook

• 2 bunches Mustard Leaves approx 200g, washed and stems removed
• 1 packed cup Bathua leaves approx 65g, washed and stems removed
• 1 packed cup Spinach Leaves approx 50g, washed and stems removed
• 1 packed cup Radish Leaves leaves for 1-2 radishes
• 1 small Radish diced, approx 70g
• 10 g Green Garlic Scapes if unavailable use 1 tablespoon chopped Garlic instead
• 1 tablespoon chopped Ginger
• 2 Green Chillies

Other Ingredients

• 1/4 cup Mustard Oil
• 2 tablespoons Ghee
• 1 teaspoon Cumin Seeds
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped Garlic
• 1 teaspoon chopped Ginger
• 1 teaspoon Green Chilli Paste
• 3/4 cup chopped Onions approx 90g
• 1 cup chopped Tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon Chilli Powder or paprika
• 1-1.5 tsp Salt
• 1/2 cup Curds or yoghurt
• 3 tablespoons Makki Atta
• 1/4 cup grated Jaggery
• 2-3 tablespoons White Butter for serving

Instructions

• Pressure cook mustard leaves, bathua, spinach, radish leaves, radish, green garlic, ginger, garlic, green chillies with a cup of water for 2-3 whistles or approx 10-15 minutes
• Let this cool and grind only the greens to a coarse paste, while reserving any water in the pressure cooker. I prefer using a stick blender so I can control the blending
• Heat mustard oil and ghee and add jeera, ginger, garlic, green chilli paste and onions. Cook till translucent and add tomatoes, chilli powder and salt and cook till mushy.
• Meanwhile, whisk together yoghurt and makki atta and keep aside.
• Add the greens mixture to the onion tomato paste along with the reserved water plus an additional half cup of water and cook for 5-10 minutes till you start seeing some oil on top.
• Add the curd mixture along with jaggery. Bring this to a quick boil while stirring continuously. Once it starts boiling, reduce the flame, adjust water if required and cook covered for 5-10 minutes or till you start seeing specks of fat float on top. Serve hot with makki ki rotis

Video

Notes

• Leafy greens are usually covered in dirt and mud. Thoroughly wash the leaves under running water to get rid of all the impurities before cooking them.
• Since we are grinding the greens in this recipe, there’s no need to chop them. But if you want to try the traditional method of using a wooden whisk, make sure to finely chop all the greens before adding them to the pressure cooker.
• Sarson da saag usually has a coarse, creamy texture. I like to achieve this using a stick blender in place of the usual mixture-grinder. A stick blender allows for better control and helps me attain that beautiful coarse texture every time. 
• This recipe can even be prepared with frozen greens. Just thaw and squeeze out any excess liquid before cooking it.
• If you are making a large batch, refrigerate the extra saag in an airtight container without tempering. This saag recipe stays good in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and can be frozen for up to a month.

Nutrition

Calories: 289kcal | Carbohydrates: 21g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 21g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 33mg | Sodium: 609mg | Potassium: 283mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 12g | Vitamin A: 374IU | Vitamin C: 22mg | Calcium: 118mg | Iron: 1mg

This article has been researched and written by Urvi Dalal

The post Sarson ka Saag – Punjabi Style appeared first on My Food Story.

I bet you haven’t tried momos this way! These veg momos with a soya filling are tender, juicy, and absolutely delicious. Even my non-veg momo friends can’t help but love these ❤️‍🔥

I love momos in every form, shape, and style, but those veg momos with the cabbage filling used to be a big no-no. Just something about veg filling felt incomplete, tasteless, and left an unpleasant feeling in my mouth, due to which I have been team chicken momos for a long time.

And that’s exactly why this veg momo recipe is different. It’s got a delicious veggie + soya granules filling that delivers a perfect bite and loads of flavor. Adding soya granules actually keeps the filling insanely juicy and sneaks in some extra protein as well. I love serving these veg momos with my homemade schezwan sauce and chilli oil for the perfect spicy kick. Believe me, once you try making vegetarian momos this way, there is no way you’ll go back to those veggie-only ones ever again!

Ingredients For Momos

Here’s everything that you’ll need:

For the dough

• Flour: All purpose flour or maida forms the base of the dough. You can use whole wheat flour but the wrapper will be really dense and chewy. All purpose flour or maida also adds more gluten and makes the wrapper easier to roll and pleat
• Oil: Helps make the dough moist and pliable. I have used sunflower oil, but any neutral-flavored oil like canola or rice bran will also work
• Lukewarm water: This is important to make the dough soft, pliable, and easy to work with. Hot water can make the dough tough and stringy, while cold water can make the wrappers dense, chewy and difficult to roll out
• Salt: For seasoning
• Corn flour: For dusting (if needed)

Veggie filling:

• Veggies: Finely chopped carrots, mushrooms, onions, cabbage, and celery form the base of the filling
• Soya granules: Add texture and a boost of protein
• Soy sauce: For umami and saltiness
• Other ingredients: Salt, sugar, pepper, ginger, and garlic for flavor, aroma, and balance

Making the Dough

The dough is a simple mix of all purpose flour, sunflower oil, salt, and lukewarm water. Kneading with lukewarm water creates some steam and a really pliable dough which is perfect for making momos. Once you finish kneading the dough, cover it with a damp towel and allow it to rest for 10 minutes before cutting it into small pieces – each piece should be approx 7 grams.

How to Wrap Momos

1. Once the dough has rested, divide the dough into 2 parts & roll one portion into a cylinder roll on the counter top. Cut out small pieces of dough, each weighing 9 grams. This is about ½ tablespoon of dough. 
2. Prepare a greased plate or parchment paper and damp towel.
3. Take each piece of dough and roll it into a ball. Using the fleshy part of your palm, flatten each ball of dough into a disc. Using a rolling pin, roll out each individual piece into a very thin round wrapper. They need to be thin enough such that they appear to be slightly translucent. Thicker wrappers tend to taste very doughy so make it as thin as you can.
4. Place about a tablespoon of the prepared filling in the centre of the rolled out wrapper. Shape and seal the wrappers as shown in the video. In order to ensure that it is properly sealed, apply a little bit of water along the edges with your fingertip.
5. Place the stuffed momo on the greased plate and cover with the damp cloth.

Richa’s Top Tips

• Make sure to roll the dough thin to prevent thick and chewy momos.
• Feel free to customise the stuffing based on what you like and have available. Just avoid adding really water-y veggies like cucumber and tomatoes as those will break the momos during the steaming process.
• Do not overcrowd the pan when steaming the momos. These tend to expand on steaming and overcrowding the pan will make the momos stick to each other.
• To check for doneness, check the skin. It should be transparent-ish and non-sticky. If it feels sticky, steam for another minute or two.

Storage Tips

• Fridge: If the momos are cooked, allow them to come to room temperature and store in an air-tight box and refrigerate for up to a day. Cooked momos tend to dry out fast, so it’s best to eat them as quickly as possible.
• Reheat: Steam for 3–5 minutes to soften and refresh. Avoid microwaving as they can turn chewy.

Serving Tips

• Dips: Sweet Chili Sauce, schezwan chutney or chilli oil make excellent dipping sauces for momo.
• Soups: Eight Treasure Soup, Hot & Sour Soup, Or Thupka make for the best accompaniments for momos, especially if you want a light yet filling meal.
• Salads: Serve with this Three Bean Salad for a refreshing meal.

I bet everyones going to get super excited when you set the table with these homemade momos that taste street style!!

If you happen to make these veg momos at home, do DM me in your pictures over at @my_foodstory. It’s always so nice to hear from you guys ❤️

Watch Veg Momos Recipe Video

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Veg Momos

These veg momos with soya filling are easy to make, delicious, and will give the momos from your favorite joint a serious run for their money

Course Snacks & Appetisers

Cuisine Indian Chinese

Diet Vegetarian

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes minutes

Rest Time 20 minutes minutes

Total Time 1 hour hour

Servings 22 momos

Calories 42kcal

Author Richa

Equipment

• 1 steamer

Ingredients

Momo Wrapper

• 1 cup all purpose flour maida
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons sunflower oil or any neutral flavoured oil like canola or rice bran
• ¼ cup + 4 teaspoons lukewarm water we’ve measured this accurately so please stick to this water measurement
• 1-2 tablespoons cornflour for dusting if needed

Vegetarian Filling

• 1 tablespoon oil
• 2 teaspoons finely chopped garlic
• 1 teaspoon finely chopped ginger
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped celery
• ½ cup finely chopped onion
• ½ cup finely chopped cabbage
• ½ cup finely chopped carrot
• ¼ cup finely chopped mushrooms
• ½ cup hydrated soya granules see note 1
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• ¼ teaspoon sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper

Instructions

Momo Wrapper

• Add the flour, salt and oil to a mixing bowl. And lukewarm water and stir using a wooden spoon or your hands to combine. Do not over knead at the stage, just bring the dough together till you don’t see any dry spots & set aside for 5 minutes covered with a damp towel.
  1 cup all purpose flour, ½ teaspoon salt, 2 teaspoons sunflower oil, ¼ cup + 4 teaspoons lukewarm water, 1-2 tablespoons cornflour for dusting
• After 5 minutes, remove and place the dough on a counter and knead for 2 to 3 minutes to a smooth dough. You do not need to dust the surface with flour unless the dough is very sticky. The dough is supposed to be slightly tacky, but not sticky.
• Place the dough back into the bowl and cover with a damp towel to rest for 10 minutes.

Vegetarian Filling

• Heat oil in a wok or heavy bottomed pan on a high flame. Add ginger, garlic, celery, onions and sauté till onions turn translucent. Add cabbage, carrot and mushrooms, reduce flame to medium high and sauté for 3 minutes. Add soya granules and saute for a minute. Add soy sauce and sugar and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from flame and keep aside to cool before placing it inside the wrapper.
  1 tablespoon oil, 2 teaspoons finely chopped garlic, 1 teaspoon finely chopped ginger, 2 tablespoons finely chopped celery, ½ cup finely chopped onion, ½ cup finely chopped cabbage, ½ cup finely chopped carrot, ¼ cup finely chopped mushrooms, ½ cup hydrated soya granules, 1 teaspoon soy sauce, ¼ teaspoon sugar, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon pepper

Wrapping and Pleating Momo

• Once the dough has rested, divide the dough into 2 parts & roll one portion into a cylinder roll on the counter top. Cut out small pieces of dough, each weighing 9 grams. This is about ½ tablespoon of dough.
• Prepare a greased plate or parchment paper and damp towel.
• Take each piece of dough and roll it into a ball. Using the fleshy part of your palm, flatten each ball of dough into a disc. Using a rolling pin, roll out each individual piece into a very thin round wrapper. They need to be thin enough such that they appear to be slightly translucent. Thicker wrappers tend to taste very doughy so make it as thin as you can.
• Place about a tablespoon of the prepared filling in the centre of the rolled out wrapper. Shape and seal the wrappers as shown in the video. In order to ensure that it is properly sealed, apply a little bit of water along the edges with your fingertip.
• Place the stuffed momo on the greased plate and cover with the damp cloth.

Steaming Momo

• Bring the water in the steamer to a boil and grease the steamer plate. Place the stuffed momo on the greased steamer plate. Ensure that they are not sticking to each other. Brush each momo with oil so they cook to be soft. Cover the lid of the steamer and cook for 14 minutes on medium flame. Rest for 5 minutes, remove from the steamer and serve immediately.

Video

Notes

1. To hydrate soya granules: Soak the soya granules in 1 cup of boiling water for 10-15 minutes, drain & squeeze out water & use.  
2. Let the dough rest for 10 minutes for best results.
3. It’s best to roll each momo wrapper, stuff them with the filling & roll the next momo wrapper. 
4. If you roll all the wrapper at once, they dry out very fast, and it will not be possible to shape momo.
5. Wrapped momo (uncooked) can be kept frozen for up to 2 weeks in an airtight container, separated by parchment paper.

Nutrition

Calories: 42kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 0.1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 0.003g | Sodium: 117mg | Potassium: 32mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 491IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 12mg | Iron: 1mg

This article was researched and written by Urvi Dalal.

The post Veg Momos | With Soya Filling appeared first on My Food Story.

Nashville fried chicken is known for its fiery heat, deep flavour, and perfect crispy texture. Traditionally, it’s deep-fried, but this air fryer version keeps the boldness intact while making it far more doable for regular cooking.

If you have never tried Nashville Fried Chicken before, consider this your sign to make it ASAP. Traditionally, chicken pieces are marinated and then coated in flour and egg wash before being deep fried. Which makes it feel pretty heavy.

But this air fryer version of Nashville hot chicken is wayyy lighter. Instead of flour and egg wash, we coat the chicken in cornflakes and then air fry it with just a light brushing of oil. The result? Perfectly crispy yet healthy pieces of chicken that are ready in no time. And of course the quick Nasvhille-style chilli oil is the star of the show!

I love eating this chicken as a burger with some cooling homemade ranch, and crisp lettuce for a meal that’s spicy, creamy, crunchy, and satisfying. It’s lighter but just as delicious as the original version! 

Nashville Chicken Burger Ingredients

Chicken marinade

• Chicken thighs – stay juicy and tender even with the high cooking temperature. You can use chicken breast, but be sure to reduce cooking time
• Greek yogurt – tenderises the chicken and adds moisture. Feel free to use hung curd in its place 
• Vinegar – balances richness and helps tenderise; lemon juice works too
• Red chilli powder – adds heat and colour; reduce or replace with paprika for a milder version
• Garlic paste – for aroma and flavor. Fresh minced garlic works as well
• Sriracha – adds heat and tang
• Cornflour – helps the marinade cling and keeps the chicken crisp
• Salt – to season 
• Crushed pepper – adds mild heat and flavor

Chicken coating

• Crushed cornflakes – creates a crunchy, fried-style coating without deep frying. Can be replaced with panko breadcrumbs

Nashville oil

• Garlic paste – adds flavor and aroma
• Chilli oil – for that signature Nashville heat and flavor. I have used my homemade chilli oil, but store-bought works as well 
• Red chilli powder – for heat and colour 
• Salt – for seasoning and balance
• Honey – adds subtle sweetness to round off the heat; can be replaced with sugar or maple syrup
• Hot water – thins the oil for easy brushing and even coating.
• Butter – adds richness and shine 

Ranch sauce

• Greek yogurt – forms a the creamy base
• Garlic paste – adds flavour and aroma
• Pepper – adds gentle heat 
• Honey – adds a subtle sweetness and softens the tang 
• Spring onion greens – finely chopped to add freshness and texture

Serving

• Lettuce leaves – shredded, to add crunch and freshness. I have used iceberg, but Romanian works too 
• Burger buns – brioche or whole wheat buns both work well

Frequently Asked Questions

Richa’s Top Tips

• I would highly recommend using chicken thighs as it stays juicier in the air fryer and can handle the spicy coating better
• Be sure to crush the cornflakes unevenly (a mix of fine crumbs and larger flakes) for better texture
• A light brush of oil over the chicken is enough to achieve crispy results. Overdoing it can lead to a soggy, unappetising mess. 
• Adjust heat gradually: Taste the Nashville oil before brushing and tweak chilli levels if needed.
• If you have the time, marinate the chicken for longer. Anywhere 3 to up to 24 hours will deliver more flavorful results 
• Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket if making a larger batch. Air frying the chicken in batches will give you much crispier results 

Storage Tips

• Allow any leftover Nashville fried chicken to cool down completely and then transfer to an air tight container. Store this in the fridge for up to 3 days. 

Tip: Place a paper towel in between each piece to absorb any moisture and keep things fresh and crispy longer. 

• This one’s also pretty freezer friendly. Once the chicken cools down completely, wrap it tightly in cling foil or parchment paper and transfer to freezer safe bags. It stays good for up to a month. 
• To reheat, simply air fry or bake for a couple minutes until it heats through and regains some of that crispiness. 

Serving Ideas

• My favorite way to eat this is in the form of a burger. The crispiness of the chicken, the creaminess of the ranch sauce, and the crunch and freshness from lettuce make it into a delicious meal. 
• You can also turn it into wraps with your favorite sauces and veggies. 
• Serve it some baked potatoes or sweet potato fries 
• A simple cucumber salad or coleslaw helps cut down on the heat and makes the dish more wholesome 

Customisation Ideas

• Swap cornflakes with panko breadcrumbs for a finer crunch
• Add pickles or pickled onions for extra tang
• Make it extra indulgent with a slice of cheese melted onto the hot chicken
• Use plain mayo instead of ranch dressing for a different flavor profile 

This air fryer Nashville fried chicken burger delivers all the bold, spicy flavours of the classic while keeping things lighter and easier to make at home. It’s crunchy, juicy, and perfectly balanced with a cooling ranch and fresh lettuce. Whether you’re cooking for a weekend treat or a casual get-together, this is a burger that doesn’t feel like a compromise at all.

If you try this Nashville fried chicken recipe at home then send me pictures of your recreations over in my Instagram DMs @my_foodstory. 

Watch Air Fryer Nashville Fried Chicken Burger Recipe Video

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Nashville Chicken Burger (Air Fryer)

Nashville chicken is known for its fiery heat, deep flavour, and perfect crispy texture. Traditionally, it’s deep-fried, but this air fryer version is healthier and just as delicious!

Course Main Course

Cuisine international

Diet Halal

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 18 minutes minutes

Total Time 23 minutes minutes

Servings 3 servings

Calories 889kcal

Author Richa

Equipment

• 1 Air Fryer

Ingredients

marination

• 3 chicken thighs 240 gms
• 2 tablespoons greek yoghurt / hung curd
• ½ teaspoon vinegar
• 1 ½ teaspoons red chilli powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons garlic paste
• 1 tablespoon sriracha
• 2 teaspoons cornflour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon crushed pepper

Chicken crumbs

• 1 ½ cups crushed cornflakes

Nashville oil for coating

• ½ teaspoon garlic paste
• 2 teaspoons chilli oil
• 1 teaspoon red chilli powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon honey
• ¼ cup hot water
• 1 teaspoon butter

Ranch sauce

• ½ cup greek yoghurt / hung curd
• ½ teaspoon garlic paste
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 2-3 tablespoons chopped spring onion greens

For serving

• 3-4 lettuce leaves shredded
• 3 burger buns

Instructions

• Take all the ingredients for marination in a bowl, mix well. Add chicken thighs, toss well and set aside for 30 minutes.
  3 chicken thighs, 2 tablespoons greek yoghurt / hung curd, ½ teaspoon vinegar, 1 ½ teaspoons red chilli powder, 1 ½ teaspoons garlic paste, 1 tablespoon sriracha, 2 teaspoons cornflour, ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon crushed pepper
• Take cornflakes on a plate, dredge each chicken thigh to coat well.
  1 ½ cups crushed cornflakes
• Pre heat air fryer to 200C and brush the basket with oil. Add coated chicken thighs and air fry for 8-10 minutes at 200C.
• Heat oil in a pan, add all ingredients listed for nashville oil and once it comes to a boil, simmer for 3-4 minutes. Brush on the air fried chicken thighs so its coated well.
  ½ teaspoon garlic paste, 2 teaspoons chilli oil, 1 teaspoon red chilli powder, ¼ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon honey, ¼ cup hot water, 1 teaspoon butter
• Take all ingredients for ranch sauce in a bowl, mix well. Mix ¼ cup of ranch sauce with shredded lettuce and set aside.
  ½ cup greek yoghurt / hung curd, ½ teaspoon garlic paste, ¼ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon pepper, 1 teaspoon honey, 2-3 tablespoons chopped spring onion greens
• Take a burger bun, split into half, spread lettuce slaw on one of the sides, place roasted chicken, spread ranch sauce on the other side of the bun and use this to cover the burger and serve.
  3-4 lettuce leaves, 3 burger buns

Video

Nutrition

Calories: 889kcal | Carbohydrates: 131g | Protein: 37g | Fat: 26g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 11g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 116mg | Sodium: 2115mg | Potassium: 662mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 20g | Vitamin A: 4564IU | Vitamin C: 35mg | Calcium: 154mg | Iron: 37mg

This article was researched and written by Urvi Dalal.

The post Air Fryer Nashville Fried Chicken Burger appeared first on My Food Story.

If you like soups that feel like a full meal without being heavy, this lemongrass chicken with coconut soup  should be next on your list.

This is a very easy soup to fall in love with, and if you like Thai flavours, this recipe is a no-brainer. Lemongrass and coconut broth do most of the work, the chicken stays tender, and the whole thing tastes incredibly special. It’s warm, fragrant, and exactly the kind of soup you want to eat when it’s chilly outside.

If you’re someone who enjoys a simple, brothy soup that feels complete on its own, this soup will be your next best friend. You just make it, sit down, and enjoy a really good bowl of soup that feels like exactly what you wanted.

Ingredients for Lemongrass Chicken in Coconut Soup

• Chicken: Boneless chicken thighs work best as they stay tender, juicy, and flavourful. 
• Aromatics: Lemongrass, ginger, garlic, green chillies, spring onion whites, and kaffir lime leaves form the base of the soup and give it that unmistakable Thai-style fragrance.
• Seasoning & Marinade: Soy sauce, red chilli sauce, chilli flakes, pepper, honey, lemon juice, oyster sauce, and a touch of chilli oil add depth, gentle heat, and balance to the chicken.
• Broth: Water and coconut milk come together to create a light, flavourful coconut broth that’s super rich in flavour. 
• Cooking Fat: A neutral oil like peanut, canola, sunflower, rice bran, etc. is used to roast the chicken.
• For Serving: Steamed rice makes the soup filling and turns it into a complete one-bowl meal, finished with spring onion greens for freshness.

Richa’s Top Tips

• Use chicken thighs if you can: They stay juicier than breast meat and hold up better in the soup without drying out.
• Don’t rush the flavour base: Let the lemongrass, ginger, and chillies warm gently in the oil so the broth picks up flavour without turning sharp.
• Keep the broth balanced: Coconut milk should soften the flavours, not overpower them, so avoid boiling the soup hard once it’s added.
• Assemble just before serving: Add the rice and pour the hot soup over it at the end to keep the texture right and the bowl feeling fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions

Storage Tips

• In the fridge: You can store the soup without rice in an airtight container for about 2 days. 
• Store rice separately: Keep the cooked rice separately so it doesn’t soak up the broth & turn mushy.
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, since coconut milk can split and go bad. 
• Reheating tip: If you want to reheat the soup, do it at on low heat and avoid boiling. Add rice first, then pour the hot soup over it just before serving.

Serving Ideas

This lemongrass chicken in coconut soup is meant to be enjoyed as a complete bowl on its own. But if you want to add something small on the side, you can:

• Cucumber salad: Cool, lightly sweet-sour, and crisp. It balances the warmth of the soup really well and keeps the meal feeling fresh.
• Grilled chicken or tofu skewers: Lightly marinated and grilled, these work well if you’re serving the soup as part of a bigger table.
• With Vegetable Spring Rolls or Egg Rolls: Something crisp on the side adds contrast and makes the meal feel more complete without much extra effort.

Customisation Ideas

• Swap rice for noodles: Turn this into a noodle soup by replacing the rice with cooked rice noodles, egg noodles, or flat wheat noodles. The coconut broth works just as well with noodles and gives the soup a completely different feel.
• Use prawns instead of chicken: Replace the chicken with prawns and skip the marination. Add the prawns directly to the simmering coconut broth and cook just until they turn pink. The lemongrass and coconut pair really well with seafood and make the soup lighter

With colder days around, this lemongrass chicken in coconut soup is a really nice one to have in your rotation. If you end up making it, do share it with me on Instagram  @my_foodstory. I always love seeing these recipes come to life in your kitchens. 

Watch Lemongrass Chicken in Coconut Soup Recipe Video

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Lemongrass Chicken with Coconut Soup

If you like soups that feel like a full meal without being heavy, this lemongrass chicken with coconut soup should be next on your list.

Course Main Course, Soups

Cuisine international

Diet Halal

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes minutes

Total Time 35 minutes minutes

Servings 4 servings

Calories 398kcal

Author Richa

Ingredients

Marination

• 250 gms boneless chicken thighs
• ¼ teaspoon pepper crushed
• 1 teaspoon grated garlic
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 4 roots lemon grass grated
• ½ teaspoon chilli oil
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon red chilli sauce
• ½ teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 teaspoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon red chilli flakes

For broth

• 1 tablespoon sunflower or any neutral flavored oil
• ¾ cup onion petals
• 1 ½ inch ginger thinly sliced
• 3 green chillies slit
• ¼ cup + 2 tablespoons spring onion whites
• 4 kafir lime leaves
• 3 lemon grass roots crushed
• 3 lemon grass greens roughly chopped
• 4 ½ cups water
• 1 ½ cups coconut milk
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• 1 ½ teaspoons lemon juice

For serving

• 3-4 cups cooked rice
• 1-2 tablespoons Spring onion greens

Instructions

Chicken marination & roasting

• Add all the ingredients for marination to a bowl, give a good mix and marinate for 30 minutes. Heat oil in a pan, add chicken & roast on low flame for 5-6 minutes on each side. They should be cooked well and roasted to a golden brown. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
  250 gms boneless chicken thighs, ¼ teaspoon pepper, 1 teaspoon grated garlic, 1 teaspoon grated ginger, 4 roots lemon grass, ½ teaspoon chilli oil, 1 teaspoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon red chilli sauce, ½ teaspoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon honey, 1 teaspoon oyster sauce, 1 teaspoon red chilli flakes, 1 tablespoon sunflower or any neutral flavored oil

Making of broth

• To the same pan, add onion petals, ginger, green chillies and saute for 1-2 minutes. Add spring onions and saute on low for a few seconds till fragrant. Add lime leaves, lemon grass roots and greens, saute for a few seconds, add coconut milk, water, salt and cook for 10 minutes till the broth gets the flavour from the aromatics. Take off the heat, add lemon juice and mix well.
  ¾ cup onion petals, 1 ½ inch ginger, 3 green chillies, ¼ cup + 2 tablespoons spring onion whites, 4 kafir lime leaves, 3 lemon grass roots, 3 lemon grass greens, 4 ½ cups water, 1 ½ cups coconut milk, ¾ teaspoon salt, 1 ½ teaspoons lemon juice

Serving

• take rice in a serving bowl, place roasted chicken on top, add broth around the rice and serve.
  3-4 cups cooked rice, 1-2 tablespoons Spring onion greens

Video

Notes

1. Boneless chicken thighs are used in the recipe as they are tender & juicy which may be replaced with chicken breast.

Nutrition

Calories: 398kcal | Carbohydrates: 55g | Protein: 17g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 59mg | Sodium: 793mg | Potassium: 455mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 276IU | Vitamin C: 29mg | Calcium: 74mg | Iron: 3mg

This article was researched and written by Harita Odedra.

The post Lemongrass Chicken with Coconut Soup appeared first on My Food Story.

Fresh methi in winter is hard to resist. This methi aloo is simple, homely, and exactly the kind of thing you want to cook when methi is at its best.

Methi aloo is a simple, everyday sabzi that lets fresh methi do most of the work. Fresh fenugreek brings a gentle earthiness, the potatoes add comfort, and when cooked right, the dish stays balanced without turning bitter.

Alongside recipes like methi thepla, this is another easy way to use fresh methi through the winter. Simple ingredients that need easy quick steps, it will fit easily into your home meals without feeling heavy or complicated to cook.

Ingredients for Methi Aloo

• Methi (Fenugreek Leaves): Fresh methi is the heart of this dish and adds earthiness and a slight bitterness 
• Potatoes: Add comfort and balance, and soften the bitterness of the methi
• Aromatics: Ginger, garlic, green chilli, cumin seeds, and dried red chilli for warmth and flavor 
• Spices & Seasoning: Coriander powder, cumin powder, turmeric, amchur, salt, and a small amount of asafoetida keep the flavours balanced and prevent bitterness 
• Tomatoes: Add mild acidity and help bring the sabzi together
• Cooking Oil: Groundnut oil or any neutral oil works for this dish

Why You’ll Love This Sabzi

Potatoes are often paired with methi for a reason. Their natural starch balances methi’s sharpness, making the dish feel more rounded and comforting. Fresh methi is rich in fibre, iron, and antioxidants, which support digestion and overall gut health, while potatoes provide energy and help make the meal more filling. Together, they create a simple, well-balanced sabzi that’s nourishing without being heavy, especially suited to winter meals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Richa’s Top Tips

• Soak the methi first: Soaking methi in salted water and squeezing it well is key to reducing bitterness without losing flavour. Don’t skip this step.
• Cut potatoes evenly: Small, evenly sized cubes cook faster and ensure the potatoes soften properly before the methi goes in.
• Cook methi uncovered: Once added, cook the methi without covering the pan so excess moisture evaporates and the sabzi doesn’t turn soggy.
• Keep the spices gentle: Aloo methi sabji works best when the spices support the methi instead of overpowering it, so measure lightly and avoid over-roasting.

Storage Tips

• In the fridge: Store cooled methi aloo sabji in an airtight container for up to 2 days. 
• At room temperature: This sabzi is best eaten fresh and should not be left out for more than a few hours, especially in warm weather.
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as methi tends to lose texture and develop bitterness once thawed.
• Reheating tip: Reheat on low heat and stir occasionally. If the sabzi feels dry, add a small splash of water while reheating.

Serving Ideas

Aloo methi is comforting on its own, but pairs easily with a few staples to make a satisfying meal.

• With Roti or Phulka: Soft rotis are the most natural pairing that let flavours of the sabzi shine without distraction.
• With Paratha: A plain paratha adds a little richness and makes the meal feel more filling, especially for lunch.
• With Dal and Rice: Serve methi aloo alongside a simple dal and steamed rice for a complete, homely meal.
• With Curd or Raita: A spoon of plain curd or a light raita balances the warmth of the methi and keeps the meal light.
• With Cucumber Salad: You can also add fresh onion and tomato salad for a crunchy and fresh bite.

Customisation Ideas

• Add a garlic finish: Lightly crush and sauté an extra clove of garlic at the end and mix it in for a stronger, more rustic garlic flavour.
• Turn it into a one-pan meal: Add the potatoes a little earlier and let them brown slightly before adding the rest. This gives the sabzi more depth and makes it hearty enough to eat on its own.
• Finish with ghee instead of oil: Swapping the final bit of oil for ghee adds a subtle richness that works especially well for winter meals.

This is everyday food at its best, easy to cook, easy to enjoy, and perfect for winter. If you give it a go, share it with me on Instagram @my_foodstory, I always love seeing your home-style meals.

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Methi Aloo

The best way to use fresh winter methi, this methi aloo sabzi is a warm, delicious, homestyle dish that's best served with hot rotis.

Course Main Course

Cuisine Indian

Diet Vegetarian

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes minutes

Total Time 25 minutes minutes

Servings 4 servings

Calories 234kcal

Author Richa

Ingredients

• 3 ½ cups methi 140 grams
• 3 cups water
• 2 teaspoons salt divided
• 1 tablespoon groundnut or any neutral flavored oil
• ½ teaspoon cumin seeds
• ⅛ teaspoon asafoetida hing
• 1 red chilli broken into 2
• 2 potatoes 220 grams/1 cup, chopped into ¼ inch cubes
• ½ teaspoon finely chopped ginger
• 1 teaspoon finely chopped garlic
• 1 green chilli finely chopped
• 1 large tomato finely chopped, ¼ cup + 2 tablespoons, 100 gms
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• ¼ teaspoon cumin powder
• ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder
• ½ teaspoon amchur powder

Instructions

• Take 3 cups of water & 1 ½ teaspoons of salt in a bowl and soak methi for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, squeeze water from the leaves and finely chop them. This will reduce the bitterness of methi leaves.
  3 ½ cups methi, 3 cups water, 2 teaspoons salt
• Heat oil in a pan or kadai, add jeera and after it crackles, add hing & red chilli and saute till fragrant. Add potato cubes and cook on low for 7-8 minutes till they are 75% cooked.
  1 tablespoon groundnut or any neutral flavored oil, ½ teaspoon cumin seeds, ⅛ teaspoon asafoetida, 1 red chilli, 2 potatoes
• Add ginger, garlic and saute till fragrant. Add tomatoes, spice powders, ½ teaspoon salt and cook covered for 3-4 minutes until tomatoes turn mushy.
  ½ teaspoon finely chopped ginger, 1 teaspoon finely chopped garlic, 1 green chilli, 1 large tomato, 1 teaspoon coriander powder, ¼ teaspoon cumin powder, ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder, ½ teaspoon amchur powder
• Add chopped methi and cook without covering for 5-7 minutes till they get roasted well. Serve.

Nutrition

Calories: 234kcal | Carbohydrates: 35g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Sodium: 1219mg | Potassium: 578mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 370IU | Vitamin C: 43mg | Calcium: 33mg | Iron: 6mg

This article was researched and written by Harita Odedra.

The post Methi Aloo appeared first on My Food Story.

Steamed Bao Buns or Gua Bao is one of those recipes that look complicated but is actually really easy. Made with a milk-based dough and steamed to perfection, these Chinese steamed buns are delicious and healthy!

Every time we visit an Asian restaurant, we always order a plate of Steamed Bao Buns. There’s something about its slightly sweet taste and that pillow-y soft texture that makes them impossible to resist. But while working on my Indo-Chinese Ebook last year, I tested these Chinese steamed buns at home, and it was such a game changer!

It’s an easy, straight-forward recipe that calls for just a few ingredients, and the result is INSANE! These steamed baos are soft, fluffy, and taste exactly like the ones at your favorite restaurant. 

I usually pair these baos with a spiced paneer filling, but honestly, once you master the dough, you can pair it with just about anything! 

Chinese Bao Bun Ingredients 

All-purpose flour (maida) – the base of the steamed buns. I don’t recommend using any other type of flour for this recipe 

Instant yeast – helps the dough rise and creates that airy, fluffy texture

Baking powder – adds extra lightness to the buns

Sugar – feeds the yeast and gives the bao a subtle sweetness

Salt – for seasoning and balance

Milk (cold or room temperature) – makes the dough soft and rich

Cooking oil – used for brushing to prevent sticking during steaming

Richa’s Top Tips

• Measure flour carefully. Too much flour can make the dough dense. Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off for best results.
• Let the dough rise until visibly puffy in a warm place, not just by the clock. Under-proofed dough leads to tight, heavy baos. 
• Keep the dough covered at all times. Bao dough dries out quickly. A damp cloth makes a noticeable difference while shaping and resting.
• A thin brush of oil is enough to prevent sticking without weighing the dough down.
• Steam the buns over medium heat. Aggressive boiling can cause uneven cooking and wrinkled baos.
• Always rest before opening the lid. That final 5-minute rest inside the steamer helps the baos hold their shape and stay fluffy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Storage Tips

• Store steamed baos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheat by steaming for 2 minutes, or microwave with a cup of water to prevent drying.
• Avoid freezing after filling; freeze plain baos instead if needed.

Serving Ideas

• Stir-fried paneer tossed with your favorite sauces and crunchy veggies makes for a delicious and wholesome dish. 
• You can even eat these steamed buns with a non-veg protein like crispy chicken along with veggies. 
• Add in some falafel, a spoonful of homemade hummus, and your favorite julienned veggies for a fun fusion meal. 

Once you make steamed buns at home with this simple recipe, you’ll think twice before ordering them outside. They’re soooo easy to make endlessly customisable! Plus, that pillow-y soft texture will make you reach for seconds, and thirds, and then some more 😂

If you try this Gua Bao recipe at home then send me pictures of your recreations over in my Instagram DMs @my_foodstory.

Watch Steamed Buns Recipe Video

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Chinese Steamed Buns

Steamed Bao Buns or Gua Bao is one of those recipes that look complicated but is actually really easy. Made with a milk-based dough and steamed to perfection, these Chinese steamed buns are delicious and healthy!

Course Snacks & Appetisers

Cuisine Indian Chinese

Diet Vegetarian

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes minutes

Resting Time 1 hour hour 15 minutes minutes

Total Time 1 hour hour 45 minutes minutes

Servings 11 Buns

Calories 106kcal

Author Richa

Equipment

• 1 steamer

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour maida
• 1 teaspoon instant yeast
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• ⅛ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk cold or at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon cooking oil for brushing

Instructions

Kneading the dough

• Add flour, yeast, baking powder, sugar, salt to the bowl or a stand mixer. Slowly pour in the milk and mix with a spatula. Knead for 10 minutes until you get a smooth dough.
  2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon instant yeast, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 2 teaspoons sugar, ⅛ teaspoon salt, 1 cup milk

Proofing the dough

• Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or damp cloth and rest the dough until it doubles in size, about 1 hour.

Rolling bao

• Cut 10 pieces of square parchment paper approx 7cm X 7cm, to be used while steaming the baos.
• Once the dough has doubled in size, punch the dough down with your hand to release the air and knead for a minute.
• Cut the dough into 2 equal pieces, and divide each piece into 5 smaller pieces.
• Work on the dough pieces one at a time shaping them into a ball. Place the dough balls on a large plate and keep them covered with a damp cloth to prevent drying.
• Working on one dough ball at a time, use a rolling pin to roll the ball into a ¼″ (½ cm) thick oval. Flip the dough oval over and lightly roll again to smooth it out.
• Brush the top of the dough oval with a thin layer of oil (refer note 1), fold the oval in half, and place on a piece of parchment paper prepared earlier.
  1 teaspoon cooking oil for brushing
• Place the shaped baos on the parchment paper pieces & keep on a steamer plate, leaving some gap between the baos. Do not overcrowd the plate as they expand & stick together. Cover with damp cloth and let rise for 15 to 30 minutes before cooking, or until the size is 1.5 times bigger.

Steaming bao

• Bring the steamer to a boil. Before steaming the baos, brush them lightly with oil. Place the steamer plate with the risen baos in the steamer. Place a kitchen towel between the steamer plate and the lid to prevent water from dripping on the baos. Cook over medium heat for 10 – 12 minutes.
• After 10 minutes, turn the heat off but leave the lid on for another 5 minutes. The baos might deflate slightly if you don’t rest them for 5 minutes before opening the lid.
• Remove the baos on a wire rack to cool. Then you can use the same steamer to steam the rest of the baos.
• Steam the baos in batches depending on the size of your steamer. While you’re steaming the first batch of the baos, transfer the rest of the baos to a greased plate and cover them with damp cloth.
• Stuff the baos with a filling of your choice and serve.

Video

Notes

1. The oil will prevent the baos from sticking together 
2. You can store the steamed baos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
3. To reheat the refrigerated baos, you can either steam them for 2 minutes or heat in microwave with a cup of water.

Nutrition

Calories: 106kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 0.5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Trans Fat: 0.002g | Cholesterol: 3mg | Sodium: 74mg | Potassium: 68mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 36IU | Vitamin C: 0.004mg | Calcium: 52mg | Iron: 1mg

This article was researched and written by Urvi Dalal.

The post Chinese Steamed Bao | Gua Bao appeared first on My Food Story.

Soya Manchurian is a delicious Asian recipe where soya chunks are tossed in a sweet and spicy Chinese sauce that’s perfect for vegetarians! Goes best with hakka noodles and fried rice.

I have to be honest, I can eat Chinese for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Especially Indian Chinese, which is always packed with flavor and so easy to make! I tried these soya hara bhara kebabs which were such a hit. That’s when I thought about combining my two loves – soya chunks and manchurian to make this soya manchurian! And the result is this dish we’ve been having on repeat at least twice a month!

What I love about this recipe is that the soya chunks add a nice, meaty texture which is sometimes even better than vegetarian manchurian balls.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

• A quick and easy vegetarian starter that’s as delicious as it’s healthy
• Perfect for when you want a protein-packed meal, but with an Indo-Chinese flavor
• Requires very little prep time, since you don’t have to chop veggies and make the manchurian balls
• The entire dish is ready in under 30 minutes

Benefits of Eating Soya Chunks

Have you ever calculated your protein intake for the day? Recently the Indian Dietician Association (IDA) has revealed that the Indian diet has 50% inadequate protein pattern. Which should be an eye opener, as a protein deficiency can lead to some other health issues. Soya is one of the highest sources of protein (higher than even eggs, dal and paneer), and can really help you meet your protein intake. Here are some more benefits of eating soya:

1. Supports heart health: Apart from being high in protein, soya chunks are also high in fiber and omega 6 fatty acids, while being low fat. All of this things help keep your heart younger and healthier.
2. Aids digestion: Soya chunks are a rich source of dietary fiber to help strengthen your gut. It reduces constipation, promotes regular bowel movement, and improves the growth of good bacteria to keep the digestive system healthy.
3. Reduces inflammation: The high fiber content, coupled with the presence of Omega 6 fatty acids, calcium, essential vitamins and nutrients helps soya chunks in reducing inflammation.
4. Aids in weight loss: The protein helps you full longer, while the fiber boosts healthy digestion, making soya chunks a great addition to a weight loss diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are soya chunks made of?

Soya chunks are made up of soy flour, and is a by product of the soy oil extraction process. They have a similar protein content as well as a slightly chewy meat-like texture, making it an excellent source of vegetarian protein.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, it’s naturally vegan as long as you use plant-based sauces.

Is soya manchurian healthy?

It can be. Using less oil, adding vegetables, and opting for air-frying or shallow-frying makes it a more balanced dish.

Can I make soya manchurian ahead of time?

You can prep and fry the soya chunks in advance, but toss them in the sauce just before serving to keep them from turning soggy.

Richa’s Top Tips

• You can make this dish even more wholesome by adding in a few more veggies like red and yellow bell peppers, mushrooms and cabbage.
• I use my homemade tomato ketchup to help add a slight sweetness to the dish. You can easily swap it with a store-bought one.
• Make sure to thoroughly squeeze all the excess water from the soya chunks before you cook them to maintain the texture and flavor of the dish.

Storage Tips

• Store leftover soya manchurian in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• If possible, store the fried soya chunks and the sauce separately to retain texture and prevent a soggy dish.
• Reheat gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce. Avoid reheating multiple times as it affects both taste and texture.
• Freezing is not recommended once the dish is fully assembled, as the sauce can change texture. However, you can freeze the fried soya chunks alone and use them later in a fresh batch of sauce.

Customisation Ideas

• Make it drier or saucier: Prefer a starter-style dish? Keep the sauce minimal and let it coat the soya chunks lightly. For a main-course version, add a little water or stock and simmer for a few minutes to get a thicker gravy.
• Adjust the spice level: Increase or decrease the amount of green chillies depending on your spice tolerance.
• Add more vegetables: Finely chopped capsicum, spring onions, carrots, or even mushrooms work really well and add extra texture and nutrition.
• Try different proteins: Not a fan of soya chunks? You can use cauliflower florets, paneer cubes, or mushrooms and follow the same sauce base.

Serving Ideas

• My favorite way to eat soya manchurian is with fried rice or hakka noodles. You can even pair it with egg fried rice for an extra boost of flavor and protein.
• Enjoy the gravy version with steamed rice for a comforting, fuss-free lunch or dinner.
• Turn leftovers into a wrap or roll, stuffing them into rotis or parathas with some crunchy onions and a little extra sauce.

I’m serving this soya manchurian with some egg fried rice because I have a strong love for egg fried rice that no noodles can beat. But feel free to serve these with both noodles and rice if that’s what you like. In fact, if you prefer your manchurian slightly dry, you can even tweak the gravy a little bit to make it less runny. Use this recipe as a guide and make this soya manchurian your own!

Watch Soya Manchurian Recipe Video

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Soya Manchurian

Soya Manchurian is a delicious Asian recipe where soya chunks are tossed in a sweet and spicy Chinese sauce. Goes best with hakka noodles and fried rice.

Course Main Course

Cuisine Chinese, Indian

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes minutes

Total Time 30 minutes minutes

Servings 4 Portions

Calories 282kcal

Author Richa

Ingredients

• 2 cups Soya Chunks
• 2 tablespoons Oil
• 1 teaspoon Garlic minced
• 1 teaspoon Ginger minced
• 3 Green Chillies slit in half
• 1 Onion cubed (large)
• 1 Bell Pepper cubed
• 3 tablespoons Corn Flour divided
• 3 tablespoons Light Soy Sauce
• 1 tablespoon Chilli Sauce / hot sauce
• 2 tablespoons Tomato Ketchup
• Chopped green onions for topping

Instructions

• Soak soya chunks in enough hot water to cover them and set aside for 15 minutes. Once soaked for 15 minutes, drain and squeeze excess water.
• Toss the soya chunks in a tablespoon of corn flour.
• Heat a tablespoon oil in a large pan and add the soya chunks. Fry them on all sides for 3-4 minutes and remove from pan. In the same pan, add remaining oil and stir fry garlic, ginger, green chillies and onion on high heat for 2-3 minutes.
• Add the bell peppers and soya chunks in the pan and toss well.
• In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, chilli sauce, ketchup, remaining cornflour and 3/4th cup water and add this mixture to the pan. Keep stirring till the sauce comes to a boil and thickens. Turn off the flame, top with sliced green onions and serve hot.

Video

Nutrition

Calories: 282kcal | Carbohydrates: 28g | Protein: 25g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 1027mg | Potassium: 155mg | Fiber: 10g | Sugar: 11g | Vitamin A: 970IU | Vitamin C: 47mg | Calcium: 158mg | Iron: 6mg

This article was researched and written by Urvi Dalal.

The post Soya Manchurian appeared first on My Food Story.

This is the kind of soup I make when I’m hungry late at night but don’t want anything too heavy. Warm, a little spicy, and comforting in the best, no-effort way.

Late nights are usually when I want something quick, warming, and full of flavour without feeling like I’m cooking a full meal. This spicy noodle soup is exactly that kind of fix. It’s warm, a little spicy, and comes together really fast, which is exactly what I want at that hour.

If you’ve tried my chicken manchow soup, you really should give this one a go too. Same kind of base, lots of garlic, a bit of heat, and that comforting Indo-Chinese flavour, just with noodles added in. It’s surprisingly easy to tweak, and before you know it, you’ll have your own version of it. 

Why You’ll Love This Soup 

This soup works well as a light, nourishing meal because it combines hydration, vegetables, and protein in one bowl. The broth helps keep you hydrated, while ingredients like garlic, ginger, cabbage, carrots, and mushrooms provide fibre and essential micronutrients. Tofu adds plant-based protein, making the soup more filling without being heavy. Using homemade chilli oil allows you to control the amount of fat and spice, which makes this a cleaner, more balanced option compared to instant noodle soups or takeout.

Ingredients for Spicy Noodle Soup

• Aromatics: Garlic, ginger, celery, spring onion whites, and onions add depth, warmth, and that familiar Indo-Chinese flavour.
• Spice & Seasoning: Gochugaru or red chilli flakes, five spice powder, white pepper, salt, and a pinch of sugar for balance, heat, and lots of flavor. 
• Vegetables & Protein: Shredded cabbage, mushrooms, carrots, and tofu add texture nutrition, and make the soup filling.
• Broth & Noodles: Water is used as the base for the soup, while cooked noodles make it hearty and comforting. Hakka noodles or any noodles you prefer work well.
• Finishing Touches: Chilli oil and spring onion greens are added at the end for extra heat, aroma, and freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Richa’s Top Tips

• Don’t rush the aromatics: Cook the aromatics on medium heat until they soften but don’t brown. Overcooking or browning the aromatics will change the flavor of the dish, so keep an eye on it. 
• Adjust the heat: We like this noodle soup to be a little spicy. But feel-free to adjust the heat by adding more or less gochugaru, chilli flakes, and chilli oil to suit your tolerance. 
• Assemble just before serving: Add noodles, chilli oil, and spring onion greens at the end so everything stays fresh and doesn’t turn soggy.

Storage Tips

• In the fridge: Store the soup base (without noodles) in an airtight container for up to 2–3 days. Reheat gently on the stove until hot.
• Store noodles separately: Keep cooked noodles in a separate container to prevent them from soaking up the broth and turning soft.
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as the vegetables and tofu can change texture once thawed.
• Reheating tip: Always reheat the soup until piping hot, then add noodles, chilli oil, and spring onion greens just before serving for the best flavour.

Serving Ideas

This spicy noodle soup is comforting and filling on its own, especially for late nights, but it also works really well as part of a simple Indo-Chinese meal. Here are a few easy combinations: 

• With Burnt Garlic Fried Rice: If you want something more substantial, this is a great rice option. The bold garlic flavours work beautifully with the heat of the soup without overpowering it.
• With Chilli Paneer (Dry): A small plate of chilli paneer adds texture and spice, making the meal feel more complete while still staying in the same flavour zone.
• With Vegetable Spring Rolls: Something crispy on the side balances the warmth and brothiness of the soup and makes it feel more like a proper spread.
• With Stir-Fried Vegetables or Mushrooms: A quick veggie stir-fry keeps things light while adding variety and crunch to the meal.

Customisation Ideas

• Add more vegetables: Feel free to bulk it up with bok choy, spinach, baby corn, or bell peppers. Add quick-cooking greens right at the end so they stay fresh and vibrant.
• Change the broth depth: Replace part of the water with a light vegetable stock for a deeper, more savoury base without making the soup heavy.
• Play with aromatics: Add a small amount of grated lemongrass or a splash of soy sauce while simmering for a slightly different flavour profile.
• Switch up the spice profile: If you don’t have five spice, try a pinch of toasted sesame powder or a dash of vinegar for a subtle twist.
• Finish differently: Top with crispy garlic, sesame seeds, or a soft-boiled egg (if it fits your diet) to change the texture and make each bowl feel a little different.

Now it’s your turn to give this a go. Play around with the spice, adjust the toppings, and make it work for your kind of night. If you do end up making it, tag me on Instagram @my_foodstory, I’d love to see how you put your own spin on it.

Watch Spicy Noodle Soup Recipe Video

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Spicy Noodle Soup

This soup is a wholesome, complete meal that tastes delicious! Spicy, warming, and full of interesting textures, you're going to want to make this on repeat.

Course Main Course, Soups

Cuisine Indian Chinese

Diet Vegan, Vegetarian

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes minutes

Total Time 30 minutes minutes

Servings 4 servings

Calories 457kcal

Author Richa

Ingredients

• 1 ½ tablespoon oil
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped garlic
• 1 teaspoon finely chopped ginger
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped celery
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped spring onion whites
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped onions
• 2 teaspoons gochugaru korean chilli powder or red chilli flakes
• ¼ cup shredded cabbage
• ¼ cup quartered mushrooms
• ¼ cup julienned carrots
• ⅓ teaspoon five spice powder refer note 1
• 4 cups water
• ¼ teaspoon sugar
• ¾ – 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon white pepper powder
• ½ cup cubed tofu chopped into ½ inch cubes
• 300 gms cooked noodles approx. 3 cups, hakka or any, approx. raw noodles (200 gms)
• 4-6 teaspoons chilli oil mfs link, divided
• 2-3 tablespoons finely chopped spring onion greens divided

Instructions

• Heat oil in a wok or pan, add garlic, ginger celery, spring onion whites, onions & saute on medium for 1-2 minutes until the onions turn translucent.
  1 ½ tablespoon oil, 2 tablespoons finely chopped garlic, 1 teaspoon finely chopped ginger, 2 tablespoons finely chopped celery, 1 tablespoon finely chopped spring onion whites, 2 tablespoons finely chopped onions
• Add gochugaru, fry for a few seconds, add veggies, five spice powder and saute for 1-2 minutes.
  2 teaspoons gochugaru, ¼ cup shredded cabbage, ¼ cup quartered mushrooms, ¼ cup julienned carrots, ⅓ teaspoon five spice powder
• Add water, sugar, salt, white pepper powder and once it boils, cook on low for 15 minutes. Add tofu cubes and cook for 1-2 minutes. Take off the heat and add 2 teaspoons of spring onion greens.
  4 cups water, ¼ teaspoon sugar, ¾ – 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon white pepper powder, ½ cup cubed tofu, 2-3 tablespoons finely chopped spring onion greens
• For each serving, take ¾ cup (70gms) of noodles in a soup bowl, add 2-3 ladles of hot soup, drizzle 1-2 teaspoons of chilli oil, garnish with some spring onion greens and serve.
  300 gms cooked noodles, 4-6 teaspoons chilli oil

Video

Notes

1. Five spice powder substitute: in step 1, heat oil, add 1 inch cinnamon, 2 star anise and 2-3 cloves and once it sizzles for a few seconds, add garlic, ginger & continue with the rest of the steps. Just before serving, pick out the whole spices and discard them.
2. Heat the soup to a piping hot just before serving for the best flavour. 
3. Can be stored for 2-3 days when refrigerated in an air-tight container.

Nutrition

Calories: 457kcal | Carbohydrates: 53g | Protein: 12g | Fat: 23g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 12g | Trans Fat: 0.02g | Sodium: 2149mg | Potassium: 259mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 1711IU | Vitamin C: 5mg | Calcium: 92mg | Iron: 4mg

This article was researched and written by Harita Odedra.

The post Spicy Noodle Soup appeared first on My Food Story.

Rich and creamy, this methi matar malai is the dish of the winter season! Fresh methi leaves, plump green peas, and a creamy onion cashew paste ensure every bite is bursting with flavor! 

Come winters, I really start to crave my green sabzis like palak paneer, sarson ka saag, and this Methi Matar Malai. It’s a luscious, white gravy curry that’s loaded with flavor and texture, and is the best way to eat all the fresh methi of the season. 

A lot of people either make it too sweet or are wary of trying methi malai matar because they think it’s going to be too bitter. But I am here to tell you that you can achieve a perfectly balanced and delicious dish with a simple trick – sauteeing the methi leaves first.

The result is a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish that’s neither sweet nor bitter – it’s simply delicious! Serve it with some lachha paratha for a meal you’ll be craving very often this winter! So let’s find out how to make methi matar malai…  

Methi Matar Malai Ingredients

• Methi & Peas: Fresh methi leaves and green peas form the heart of the dish, bringing earthy bitterness and natural sweetness together.
• Aromatics: Onions, ginger, garlic, green chillies, add lots of flavor and aroma. 
• Cashews: Blended in to give the gravy its rich, silky texture.
• Cooking Oil: A mix of butter and a neutral-flavored oil add flavor and richness 
• Whole Spices: Cumin seeds, green and black cardamom, cinnamon, and peppercorns add aroma, warmth, flavor. 
•  Ground Spices: Coriander powder, roasted cumin powder, and garam masala for flavor and balance 
• Curd (Yogurt): Adds a light tang and keeps the gravy smooth and rich.
• Fresh Cream: Stirred in at the end for that classic malai finish.
• Kasuri Methi: Boosts aroma, deepens flavor, and adds that perfect finishing touch. A little goes a long way. 
• Salt & Sugar: For seasoning and balance. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Richa’s Top Tips 

• I have used fresh green peas for this recipe as it’s in season in India. But you can easily use frozen matar as well. 
• Don’t skip sauteeing the methi leaves in some butter and oil. This helps to cut down on the bitterness and add balance of flavor in every bite. 
• You can use almonds instead of cashews for this recipe, but this will change the flavor slightly. 
• You can adjust the quantity of methi according to your preference. 

Storage Tips

• At room temperature: This dish is best enjoyed fresh and should not be left out for more than 2 hours, especially because it contains dairy.
• In the fridge: Store cooled methi matar malai in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on low heat, stirring in a splash of water or milk to loosen the gravy.
• In the freezer: You can freeze the curry for a maximum of 2 weeks. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly to maintain the creamy texture.
• Reheating tip: Always reheat on low heat and avoid boiling, as the curd and cream can split if overheated.

Serving Ideas

Methi Matar Malai is rich yet mild, which makes it incredibly versatile to serve across meals. Here are some easy and comforting ways to enjoy it:

• With Lachha Paratha: Soft, flaky parathas are a classic pairing and perfect for scooping up the creamy white gravy.
• With Butter Naan: The slightly crisp, buttery naan balances the richness of the dish beautifully.
• With Steamed Basmati Rice: A simple bowl of rice lets the flavours of the gravy shine without overpowering them.
• With Jeera Rice: Lightly spiced cumin rice adds warmth and makes the meal feel a little more special.
• With Dal Tadka: Pairing it with a simple dal creates a well-rounded, comforting Indian meal. 

Customisation Ideas

• Boost the richness: Add a tablespoon of melon seeds (magaz) or extra cashews to the paste for a more luxurious, restaurant-style gravy.
• Make it lighter: Swap fresh cream with a little milk or low-fat cream to keep the gravy creamy but less heavy.
• Turn up the warmth: Add a pinch of nutmeg or mace (javitri) along with garam masala for deeper, wintery flavours.
• Add more veggies: Stir in lightly sautéed mushrooms or blanched cauliflower florets to make the dish more hearty and filling.

With the season of fresh leafy greens here, you need to make this methi matar malai ASAP. Believe me, it’s super easy and you’ll love the warming, hearty flavors. 

If you enjoy this recipe, be sure to leave me a comment below. Don’t forget to send pictures of your recreations over on my IG @myfoodstory.

Watch How To Make Methi Matar Malai

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Methi Matar Malai (White Gravy)

Creamy, rich, delicious, and a total textural delight – this methi matar malai is the dish you need to try this winter!

Course Main Course

Cuisine Indian

Diet Gluten Free, Vegetarian

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes minutes

Total Time 40 minutes minutes

Servings 4 people

Calories 365kcal

Author Richa

Ingredients

For onion cashew paste

• 2 ½ cups water divided
• 3 medium onions cut into large cubes approx 1 cup
• 2 green chillies
• 1 tablespoon roughly chopped ginger
• 1 tablespoon roughly chopped garlic
• ⅛ cup broken cashew nuts 8 whole cashew nuts

For cooking peas

• 1 cup green peas 150 gms
• 1 cup water
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon sugar

For malai gravy

• 1 ½ tablespoon cooking oil divided
• 1 ½ tablespoons butter divided
• ½ teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 black cardamom
• 4 green cardamoms
• 1 inch cinnamon
• 10 peppercorns
• 2 teaspoons coriander powder
• 1/4 teaspoon jeera powder roasted cumin powder
• ¾ cup whisked curds sub with greek yogurt
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup water
• 2 cups fresh methi leaves only, stems removed approx 50 gms
• ½ teaspoon garam masala
• 2 tablespoons fresh cream
• 1 tablespoon kasuri methi roasted

Instructions

Sauteeing methi and matar

• Wash & rinse methi leaves well to remove any dirt. Squeeze out water, finely chop and set aside.
  2 cups fresh methi leaves only, stems removed
• Boil 1 cup of water with ½ teaspoon salt & sugar, add matar and cook for 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  1 cup water, ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon sugar, 1 cup green peas
• Heat ½ tablespoon oil & butter, add the chopped methi leaves and matar with ¼ teaspoon salt and fry for 3 minutes on low heat just until they are dry & coated with oil & butter. Take care that they do not get browned.
  1 ½ tablespoon cooking oil, 1 ½ tablespoons butter

Making onion cashew paste

• Boil 2 cups of water, add onions, green chillies, ginger, garlic, cashew nuts and cook for 20-25 minutes till the onions and cashews turn soft.
  2 ½ cups water, 3 medium onions cut into large cubes, 2 green chillies, 1 tablespoon roughly chopped ginger, 1 tablespoon roughly chopped garlic, ⅛ cup broken cashew nuts
• Strain the mixture, discard any liquid, and set aside to cool. Once cool, add the ingredients to a mixie & grind to a smooth paste.

Making gravy

• Heat 1 tablespoon of oil & butter in a pan, add cumin seeds, black & green cardamoms, cinnamon, peppercorns and let them sizzle for 30 seconds.
  ½ teaspoon cumin seeds, 1 black cardamom, 4 green cardamoms, 1 inch cinnamon, 10 peppercorns
• Add the onion cashew paste and curds and cook it for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally till oil separates from the sides of the pan or floats on top. Add coriander powder, cumin powder and salt and saute for a minute.
  2 teaspoons coriander powder, 1/4 teaspoon jeera powder
• Add 1 to 1 1/2 cups water, sauteed methi & matar & cook for 5 minutes.
  1 cup water
• Stir in the fresh cream, garam masala, kasuri methi, bring it to a quick boil and turn off the flame.
  ½ teaspoon garam masala, 2 tablespoons fresh cream, 1 tablespoon kasuri methi

Video

Notes

1. Fresh or frozen matar works equally well in this recipe.
2. Any cooking oil may be used as per your preference. 
3. Make sure to use the freshest methi or fenugreek leaves available to you for the best flavour

Nutrition

Calories: 365kcal | Carbohydrates: 28g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 23g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 42mg | Sodium: 995mg | Potassium: 312mg | Fiber: 7g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 528IU | Vitamin C: 25mg | Calcium: 693mg | Iron: 4mg

The post Creamy Methi Matar Malai Recipe(White Gravy) appeared first on My Food Story.

Veg Manchurian is a really popular Indo Chinese dish thats ready in 35 minutes, where fried vegetable balls are dunked and simmered in Manchurian sauce. The result is a sweet, sour, spicy dish thats saucy and full of umami!

Veg Manchurian or Veg balls in Manchurian sauce is probably on every Indian restaurants menu! And for good reason! Deep fried vegetable balls that are crunchy and packed with flavour are simmered in an intense, spicy, sour, tangy, umami rich, aromatic sauce till they soak up all that flavour and become even better!

Traditionally, manchurian balls are deep fried. But in this recipe, I am showing you how to make this dish healthier manchurian balls in the air fryer, so they’re healthier and lighter, but still as crispy and delicious as it’s deep fried counterpart.

Who invented Manchurian?

Like a lot of Indian Chinese dishes, manchurian originated in Kolkata in the 1970’s and was born in Indo Chinese restaurants there. It is inspired by dishes in Manchuria, which is a region in North East China. Originally it was made with chicken in manchurian sauce, but since India has so many vegetarians, this vegetarian manchurian was born!

Manchurian is heavy on soy sauce and usually has a deep brown colour. The Indian influence added things like green chillies and coriander, which weren’t originally added to the dish. But we aren’t complaining because this Indianised version is so so good!

Now we have a ton of variations to this recipe like gobi manchurian, soya manchurian, paneer manchurian and even mushroom manchurian.

There are generally two ways Manchurian is made:

• Veg Manchurian with gravy usually served with fried rice or hakka noodles
• Veg Manchurian dry which is usually served as an appetizer: To make veg manchurian dry, follow all the steps in this recipe as mentioned, but only add 1/4 cup water while making the sauce. The result will be a sauce that just coats the veg balls and you’ll have a tasty veg manchurian dry

Ingredients for Manchurian Balls

Here’s what you’ll need for the veg balls:

Finely chopped vegetables: Finely chopped vegetables such as cabbage, carrots, onions, celery, spring onions are used to make the balls. Use a food processor or chopper for best results. I do not like to use vegetables like capsicum because they leave too much water and make the mixture too wet and gluggy

Ginger Garlic Paste: Ginger garlic paste is simple, ginger and garlic minced together or ground into a paste. Add flavour and a punch. You can also grate equal amounts of each and use

Green Chillies: Not traditional, but adds a nice heat and flavour to the balls. If living outside India, use serrano peppers. Skip if you don’t want extra heat

All Purpose Flour and Cornflour: Binding agents mixed with vegetables to form the balls and keep the shape intact as they fry

Ingredients for Manchurian Gravy

Here’s what you’ll need for the manchurian gravy or sauce:

Aromatics: The sauce starts with stir frying all the aromatics – garlic, ginger, green chillies, celery and onions on high heat. All finely chopped to add punchiness and spiciness to the gravy

Sauces: Only dark soy sauce and vinegar. The gravy for this manchurian is soy sauce heavy but has a perfect balance of sweet, sour, spicy and umami when all the other ingredients

Cornflour: For thickening. You can replace it with potato starch.

Herbs: Non traditional again, but herbs such as spring onions (white and green part) and coriander bring freshness and flavour. Add them right towards the end.

How to Make Manchurian Balls – Deep Fried

1. Add all the ingredients for the veg balls to a bowl
2. Mix them together till it comes together. Don’t knead or overmix or the balls can become dense and gluggy. There is not need to add water either as the vegetables will release enough water
3. Shape them into gooseberry sized balls. You can add a little oil or water to your palm to help you shape them
4. Deep fry in medium hot oil. It’s important that the oil is not too hot or the balls will only become golden from outside and will not cook from the inside
5. Once evenly golden brown on all sides, remove them with a perforated or slotted spoon on a tissue lined plate to absorb any extra oil. Set these aside

How to Make Manchurian in Air Fryer

1. Preheat the airfryer at 180C and brush the airfryer basket with oil.
2. Place the manchurian balls and brush some oil over them. Avoid overcrowding and make sure that there is some gap between the balls.
3. Air fry the balls for 7 minutes at 180C, brush with oil and air fry for 7 more minutes.
4. Air fry for 2 minutes at 200 C for them to turn golden and crisp. They need to cool a bit before they can be removed from the airfryer as they stick to the basket & break, if forced out. Transfer them to a plate and set aside. Repeat the same for all the remaining balls. 

How to Make Manchurian Sauce

Once you’re done frying the manchurian balls, it’s time to make the manchurian sauce and finish the gravy. Don’t forget to keep all the ingredients prepped and ready because all the cooking will be done on high heat, and the dish comes together in a few minutes.

1. To start making the manchurian sauce, saute ginger, garlic, celery and green chillies in hot oil in a wok
2. Add onions and saute on high heat again till onions are translucent
3. Add all the sauces and give this a quick mix
4. Once the sauce starts bubbling, add cornflour slurry to thicken the sauce

5. Add manchurian balls to the sauce

6. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to help the manchurian balls absorb the sauce

7. Finally add herbs like spring onions (green and white) and chopped coriander and give it a mix

8. Serve immediately with fried rice or noodles

Richa’s Top Tips & Notes

• Prep ahead and keep all your ingredients ready to go because once you start cooking, the recipe for the sauce comes together in minutes
• Use a chopper or food processor to chop all your vegetables for fast, even prep
• Don’t add any water while making the manchurian balls or the mixture will becomes too wet. The vegetables will leave enough water as you mix
• If using frozen veggies, make sure to thaw them and squeeze out any excess water before using
• Always deep fry the balls on medium high heat. This ensures they cook evenly from inside as well as outside
• For the same smoky, restaurant style flavour, use a cast iron or carbon steel wok. Cook the manchurian gravy on high heat
• To make veg manchurian dry, only add 1/4 cup water while making the sauce. All the other steps remain the same
• To make this recipe gluten free, replace the all purpose flour with rice flour or besan, and the corn flour with tapioca starch or potato starch

Serving Ideas

Veg Manchurian gravy tastes fantastic with

• egg fried rice, burnt garlic mushroom fried rice, schezwan fried rice – the medley of flavors and textures is truly incredible
• You can also serve it with hakka noodles and chicken chow mein for a delicious street-style Indo-Chinese meal.
• If you don’t want to take the extra effort, just serve it with steamed rice because the flavours in the gravy are big and bold and the rice will just soak them all up!

This veg manchurian gravy is the true essence of the Indo-Chinese cuisine. It’s one of those recipes that look complicated but are actually quite easy to make. And now thanks to the air fryer, you can also make it a whole lot healthier!

If you do try this recipe, don’t forget to DM the pictures over on my Instagram @my_foodstory. I love seeing your recreations!

Watch Veg Manchurian Recipe Video

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Veg Manchurian Recipe

Veg Manchurian is an easy indo chinese recipe that's saucy, spicy, sour, tangy and full of umami. It's a popular indo chinese recipe that goes really well with fried rice or hakka noodles.

Course Main Course

Cuisine Indian Chinese

Diet Vegan, Vegetarian

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes minutes

Total Time 35 minutes minutes

Servings 6 people

Calories 193kcal

Author Richa

Ingredients

Vegetable Balls

• ½ Cup Grated Carrot
• ½ Cup finely chopped Cabbage or shredded
• ¼ Cup finely chopped Spring Onion green part only
• ¼ Cup finely chopped Onion
• ¼ Cup finely chopped Green Beans
• 1 Teaspoon Ginger Garlic Paste
• 1 Teaspoon Green Chilli Paste green chillies ground to a paste
• ½ – ¾ Teaspoon Salt
• 3 Tablespoons Corn Flour
• 3 Tablespoons All Purpose Flour
• 1/4 cup Oil for frying

Manchurian Gravy

• 2 Tablespoons Oil
• 1 ½ Tablespoons finely chopped Ginger or minced
• 3 Tablespoons finely chopped Garlic or minced
• 1 ½ Tablespoons finely chopped Celery
• ¼ Cup finely chopped Onion
• 2-3 Green Chillies finely chopped
• 2 ½ – 3 Cups Vegetable Stock or Water hot
• 1 ½ Tablespoons Soy Sauce
• 1 ½ Teaspoons Vinegar
• 1 – 1 ½ Teaspoons Salt
• 2 Tablespoons Corn Flour
• 3 Tablespoons Water
• 2 Tablespoons Chopped Coriander
• 2 Tablespoons Chopped Spring Onion white and green parts

Instructions

Vegetable Balls

• Add all the ingredients into a bowl. Mix to combine all the ingredients, being careful to mix just enough to bring them together. Don't add any extra water – the vegetables will release enough water. Shape into small balls (approx 1-1 ½ tablespoons per ball). Keep aside.
• Heat 1.5 inches oil in a kadai or a deep frying pan. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the balls into it one at a time. Fry on medium high heat for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown.
• Remove the vegetable balls using a skimmer and transfer to a kitchen towel lined plate. Keep aside.

Manchurian Gravy

• Heat oil in a wok. Add chopped garlic and ginger and sauté until fragrant. Add celery, onions and green chilli and sauté for 1 – 2 minutes on high flame.
• Add water/stock, soy sauce, vinegar and salt. Mix well to combine. Allow to simmer.
• Combine corn flour and water in a small bowl and add it to the wok. Stir continuously to ensure the sauce does not become lumpy. Simmer till the sauce thickens and has a glossy look
• Once thickened, add the fried vegetable balls and stir to combine. Add chopped coriander, spring onion greens and whites. Serve hot along with fried rice or hakka noodles.

Video

Notes

• Prep ahead and keep all your ingredients ready to go because once you start cooking, the recipe for the sauce comes together in minutes
• Use a chopper or food processor to chop all your vegetables for fast, even chopping. If the vegetables are too big in size, the balls will not hold shape well and can also take longer to cook
• Don’t add any water while making the manchurian balls or the mixture will becomes too wet. The vegetables will leave enough water as you mix
• If using frozen veggies, make sure to thaw them and squeeze out any excess water before using
• Always deep fry the balls on medium high heat. This ensures they cook evenly from inside as well as outside
• For the same smoky, restaurant style flavour, use a cast iron or carbon steel wok. Cook the manchurian gravy on high heat
• To make veg manchurian dry, only add 1/4 cup water while making the sauce. All the other steps remain the same
• To make this recipe gluten free, replace the all purpose flour with rice flour or besan, and the corn flour with tapioca starch or potato starch

Nutrition

Calories: 193kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 9g | Trans Fat: 1g | Sodium: 1495mg | Potassium: 133mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 1899IU | Vitamin C: 9mg | Calcium: 33mg | Iron: 1mg

This article was researched and written by Urvi Dalal.

The post Veg Manchurian | Air Fried & Deep Fried appeared first on My Food Story.

Gond ke Laddu, a cozy and nourishing treat, is a traditional winter staple in a lot of Indian homes. These wholesome and delicious laddoos are loaded with immunity boosting and warming properties. 

There’s something special and nostalgic about making Gond ke Laddu at home. Growing up, my mum and granny would make it and now I make it for my kids. For those of you who don’t know, gond ke laddu is a traditional Indian winter sweet made using gond (edible gum), jaggery, nuts, and whole wheat flour. It’s a simple little treat but one that’s packed with a lot of benefits. 

These laddoos are called by a lot of names – gond ke laddu, pinni, dinkache laddu, etc. – depending on the state. This gond laddu recipe is from North India, and it’s the one I have grown up eating. And it’s an absolute must-have winter recipe for me right along with gajar halwa and methi matar malai.  

What is gond and how is it helpful 

Gond is one of the oldest natural superfoods in Indian cooking. It’s extracted from the sap of the babool tree and is amazing for generating warmth in the body, boosting stamina, and supporting postpartum recovery. Traditional Indian households have relied on gond for centuries during winter because it helps keep joints strong, improves immunity, and provides slow, steady energy when the weather gets cold.

Ingredients for Gond Ke Laddu

• Gond (Edible Gum): The star ingredient that gives these laddoos their signature crunch and strength-boosting benefits.
• Ghee: Used for frying the gond and roasting the flour. It adds warmth, flavour, and richness to the laddus.
• Nuts & Seeds: A mix of cashews, almonds, melon seeds, and khus khus for crunch, nutrition, and that classic laddoo texture.
• Copra (Dried Coconut): Adds sweetness and a lovely nutty aroma when lightly roasted.
• Atta (Whole Wheat Flour): Gives the laddus body and helps bind everything together once roasted.
• Jaggery: The natural sweetener that melts into a sticky syrup and brings all the ingredients together.

Richa’s Top Tips

• Fry gond on low heat: It should puff up slowly, not brown too fast. This keeps it light and crunchy instead of hard and chewy.
• Roast everything separately: Nuts, atta, and copra all roast at different speeds. Doing them one by one keeps each ingredient perfectly golden and prevents burning.
• Jaggery just needs to melt: No string consistency needed. As soon as it melts, turn off the heat so the laddoos stay soft and easy to shape.
• Shape the laddus while warm: Once the mixture cools too much, it becomes harder to bind. If that happens, warm it slightly to loosen it again.
• Use good-quality ghee: Since ghee is the main flavour here, I prefer to use fresh, homemade ghee as it makes a huge difference to the flavor and texture.. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for 2 to 3 weeks as we roast everything well so it stays fresh quite easily.
• Fridge: Not necessary, but you can refrigerate them in very warm climates. Bring to room temperature before eating so the ghee softens.
• Freezer: They freeze well for up to 2 months. Thaw a few laddus overnight on the counter and they’ll taste just as good.
• Avoid Moisture: Always use a dry spoon or dry hands to pick them up. Any moisture shortens shelf life.

Serving Ideas

These laddus pair beautifully with other warming winter dishes. Here are some great serving combinations:

• Alongside Halwa: Perfect for a cozy, old-school Indian sweet platter.
• After a bowl of Sarson Ka Saag & Roti: The ideal finishing touch to a winter Punjabi meal.
• With Masala Chai + Mathri: For a warming evening snack platter.

Customisation Ideas

Here are some fun, actually useful ways to switch things up:

• Add edible gum varieties: If you find Babul gond or Mahua gond, mix a small portion with the regular gond for added texture and different health benefits.
• Make a chocolate version: Add 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder to the roasted atta for a kid-friendly twist.
• Spice it up: A pinch of nutmeg or dry ginger powder makes these laddus even more warming during winter.
• Add seeds for crunch: Toss in toasted flaxseeds, sunflower seeds, or chia to make the laddus even more nutritious.
• Make mini laddus: Roll bite-sized ones for gifting or festive platters. They stay neater and are great for portion control.

Gond ke Laddu is like winter wrapped up in a small bite. It’s warm, nutty, wholesome, and familiar in the best way. Whether you’re making them for the season, for someone who needs the extra strength, or simply because you love homemade sweets, this recipe will always hit the spot. 

If you end up making a batch, tag me on Instagram @my_foodstory, I’d love to see your winter kitchen magic!

Watch Gond Laddu Recipe Video

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Gond Ke Laddu

An Indian winter staple, Gond ke Laddu is a cozy and nourishing treat loaded with immunity-boosting and warming properties.

Course Desserts

Cuisine Indian

Diet Vegetarian

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes minutes

Total Time 25 minutes minutes

Servings 18 laddus

Calories 151kcal

Author Richa

Ingredients

• ½ cup +1 tsp ghee divided
• ⅔ cup gond 50 gms
• ½ cup + 2 tablespoons chopped cashews 50 gms
• ¼ cup + 1 tablespoon chopped almonds 50 gms
• ¼ cup + 2 tablespoons melon seeds 50 gms
• 1 cup atta / wheat flour
• 1 tablespoon khus khus
• ¼ cup grated khopra 25 gms
• 1 cup jaggery 180 gms
• 2 tablespoons water

Instructions

• Take 3 tablespoons of ghee in a kadai, add gond in small batches & fry on low till they puff up. Transfer to a plate.
  ½ cup +1 tsp ghee, ⅔ cup gond
• To the same kadai, add cashews and fry on low for 2-3 minutes till they turn light golden and transfer to the plate. Add melon seeds and fry for 1-2 minutes till they turn light golden. Add almonds and fry for a few seconds till golden and transfer to the plate. Crush the fried gond lightly with hand or using a pestle.
  ½ cup + 2 tablespoons chopped cashews, ¼ cup + 1 tablespoon chopped almonds, ¼ cup + 2 tablespoons melon seeds
• Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of ghee, atta and fry on low for 3-4 minutes till it’s well roasted and golden brown. Fry khuskhus, khopra, mix well and roast for a minute. Add to the plate and give it a good toss to mix with fried dry fruits, gond etc.
  1 cup atta / wheat flour, 1 tablespoon khus khus, ¼ cup grated khopra
• Add 1 teaspoon of ghee to the kadai, add jaggery with 2 tablespoons of water and once it melts, add to the rest of the ingredients. Mix, make lemon size laddoos and serve. This will yield approx. 16-18 laddoos.
  1 cup jaggery, 2 tablespoons water

Video

Notes

• The nutrition information below does not include the caloric count for gond and melon seeds, but it will be approximately 30-50 kcal. 

Nutrition

Calories: 151kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.001g | Cholesterol: 13mg | Sodium: 1mg | Potassium: 70mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 12g | Vitamin A: 1IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 20mg | Iron: 1mg

This article was researched and written by Harita Odedra.

The post Gond Ke Laddu | Pinni | Dink Laddu appeared first on My Food Story.

When winter vegetables are at their peak, all Gujarati kitchens turn to the classic undhiyu. And this shortcut version brings together all those familiar winter flavours without needing hours in the kitchen.

As soon as winter vegetables start filling the markets, this is the kind of dish I want to cook at home. It’s packed with seasonal produce and slow, comforting flavours.,This Surti-style shortcut version keeps the essence of a traditional Gujarati undhiyu intact, but makes it far more doable for regular cooking, especially when you don’t want to spend the entire day in the kitchen.

I know undhiyu can feel a little overwhelming to make though. With so many vegetables and steps involved, it’s often reserved for special occasions or big family meals. But if you already enjoy cooking winter favourites like Methi Thepla, this will feel just as familiar. 

Ingredients for Undhiyu

• Winter Vegetables: raw banana, shakarkand (sweet potatoes), baby potatoes, and brinjal  bring a mix of earthy, sweet, and soft textures that define a good Gujarati undhiyu.
• Papdi Beans: a key ingredient in Surti undhiyo, surti papdi along with their tender green outer parts add freshness and texture. Soaking them helps keep them green and cook evenly.
• Fresh Pigeon Peas (Tuvar / Lilva): Add sweetness and softness, making the undhiyo more seasonal and traditional.
• Fresh (Coriander): finely chopped coriander forms the backbone of the green masala. It adds freshness and ties all the vegetables together.
• Fresh Grated Coconut: adds richness, texture, and nuttiness that softens the  spices 
• Green Garlic:adds a unique pungent freshness that’s typical to authentic undhiyu. You can use garlic pods if that’s more easily available. 
• Green Chillies: For heat. Feel free to adjust according to your tolerance. 
• Ginger: for aroma and flavor 
• Powdered  spices: Turmeric, coriander powder, ajwain, hing and cumin powder for flavor and color. 
• Sugar & Lemon Juice: Used in small amounts for freshness and brightness 
• Cooking Oil: I have used groundnut oil, but sesame oil works beautifully too. 
• Salt: for seasoning and balance. 

Richa’s Top Tips

• Cook vegetables in stages: Roasting the root vegetables first and cooking brinjals separately helps everything cook evenly and keeps the textures intact in the final dish.
• Don’t rush the green masala: Mixing the dhaniya, coconut, and spices well ensures the flavours are evenly distributed when everything comes together.
• Check doneness before combining: Pierce the vegetables with a fork to make sure it’s roasted through before adding it back to the kadhai.
• Mix gently at the end: Once all the vegetables are combined, stir carefully to avoid breaking them and to keep the undhiyu well-textured and balanced.

Frequently Asked Questions

Storage Tips

• At room temperature: Undhiyo is best eaten fresh and should not be left out for more than 2 hours, especially in warmer weather.
• In the fridge: Store cooled undhiyu in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan on low heat, stirring carefully so the vegetables don’t break.
• In the freezer: Freezing is not recommended, as the vegetables tend to lose their texture once thawed.
• Reheating tip: Reheat slowly on low heat and avoid excessive stirring to keep the vegetables intact and the flavours balanced.

Serving Ideas

Surti undhiyo is hearty and full of flavour, which makes it perfect to build a simple winter meal around. Here are a few traditional and comforting ways to enjoy it:

• With Poori: This is the classic pairing, where the soft, puffed pooris soak up all the flavours of the undhiyo beautifully.
• With Gujarati Kadhi: The light sweetness and tang of kadhi balances the richness of the vegetables.
• With Rotli: Soft rotlis keep the meal simple and let the flavours of the undhiyo shine.
• As part of a Gujarati thali: Pair it with rice, dal, shrikhand, and a salad for a festive, well-rounded meal.

Customisation Ideas

• Add more winter vegetables: If available, include purple yam (kand) or extra surti papdi to make the undhiyu more seasonal and traditional.
• Adjust the sweetness: Increase or reduce the sugar slightly depending on how sweet your shakarkand is and your personal preference.
• Make it spicier: Add extra green chillies or a pinch of crushed black pepper for more heat without overpowering the vegetables.
• Richer flavour finish: Drizzle a little groundnut oil or add a spoon of extra grated coconut at the end to enhance aroma and depth.

With winter vegetables at their peak, this shortcut surti-style undhiyo is a lovely dish to add to your seasonal cooking.

I hope you give it a try and enjoy making it at home as much as I do. If you do, don’t forget to share your creations with me on Instagram @my_foodstory. I’d love to see how your undhiyo turns out!

Watch Shortcut Undhiyu Recipe Video

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Shortcut Undhiyu

This shortcut undhiyu recipe is the quickest, easiest way to enjoy fresh winter produce without spending hours in the kitchen. Serve with kadhi and hot puris for a satisfying meal.

Course Main Course

Cuisine Indian

Diet Vegan, Vegetarian

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes minutes

Total Time 35 minutes minutes

Servings 4 servings

Calories 918kcal

Author Richa

Ingredients

• 5 – 6 tablespoons sesame or groundnut oil
• 2 raw bananas peeled & cut into 1 ½ inch cubes
• 2 sweet potatoes peeled & cut into 1 ½ inch cubes
• 6 baby potatoes peeled
• 6 small brinjals / baby egg plants halved
• 1 teaspoon ajwain
• ½ teaspoon hing asafoetida
• 200 gms surti papdi / hyacinth beans de-string, wash and soak in 1 cup of water +½ teaspoon baking soda refer note 1
• ½ cup fresh pigeon peas / fresh tuvar lilva, parboiled for 4-5 minutes
• 1-2 tablespoons water

Coriander mix

• 1 ½ cups finely chopped coriander leaves
• 1 cup grated coconut
• 1 ½ tablespoons coriander powder
• 2 teaspoons cumin powder
• 1 ½ – 2 teaspoons salt
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 ½ teaspoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 2 inches ginger crushed
• 8 green chillies crushed
• ¼ cup finely chopped green garlic shoots or 6 finely chopped garlic cloves

Instructions

• Take all the ingredients for Coriander mix in a bowl, mix well and set aside.
  1 ½ cups finely chopped coriander leaves, 1 cup grated coconut, 1 ½ tablespoons coriander powder, 2 teaspoons cumin powder, 1 ½ – 2 teaspoons salt, Juice of 1 lemon, 1 ½ teaspoons sugar, 1 teaspoon turmeric powder, 2 inches ginger, 8 green chillies, ¼ cup finely chopped green garlic shoots or 6 finely chopped garlic cloves
• Heat oil in a pan or kadai, add raw bananas, sweet potatoes, baby potatoes and roast for 3 minutes on low. Cook covered with a lid for 8-10 minutes just until they are tender but not mushy. Transfer them to a plate.
  5 – 6 tablespoons sesame or groundnut oil, 2 raw bananas, 2 sweet potatoes, 6 baby potatoes
• To the same oil in kadai, add halved brinjals, roast on low for 2-3 minutes till they are tender and transfer to the plate.
  6 small brinjals / baby egg plants
• Add ajwain to the oil in the kadai and once it sizzles for a few seconds, add hing, papdi and saute for 5 minutes till they are tender. Add pigeon peas, roasted veggies – banana, potatoes, brinjals, coriander mix to the kadai. mix everything well and cook covered for 15-20 minutes. gently mix 2-3 times in between to ensure it does not stick to the bottom of the pan. You may also sprinkle a few drops of water if it gets too dry. Take off the heat and serve.
  1 teaspoon ajwain, ½ teaspoon hing, 200 gms surti papdi / hyacinth beans, ½ cup fresh pigeon peas / fresh tuvar, 1-2 tablespoons water

Video

Notes

1. This ensures the papdi stays green & crisp and hence do not skip this step.
2. 100 gms purple yam or kand may also be added along with potatoes, if you prefer.
3. Only a few drops of water is added while cooking undhiyo to make sure that it cooks in its own juices which enhances the taste of the dish.

Nutrition

Calories: 918kcal | Carbohydrates: 150g | Protein: 21g | Fat: 35g | Saturated Fat: 15g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 8g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Sodium: 999mg | Potassium: 3622mg | Fiber: 45g | Sugar: 61g | Vitamin A: 19519IU | Vitamin C: 102mg | Calcium: 276mg | Iron: 9mg

This article was researched and written by Harita Odedra.

The post Shortcut Undhiyu appeared first on My Food Story.

Ever want a meal that feels complete without needing anything on the side? This dal dhokli recipe is exactly that. Soft, wheat dhoklis simmered in a gently spiced dal, this one pot dish from Gujarat is filling and so comforting.

In many Gujarati homes, dal dhokli is cooked as a full meal rather than part of a larger spread. It’s usually made on regular days, especially when you want something filling and balanced without thinking too hard about what else to cook.

If you enjoy simple, home-style Gujarati meals like kadhi or khichdi, dal dhokli will feel instantly familiar. It comes together quickly, uses everyday ingredients, and works well for lunch or dinner when you want something wholesome and comforting.

Ingredients for Dal Dhokli

• Whole Wheat Flour (Atta): Used to make the dhoklis
• Spices for Dhokli Dough: Turmeric, coriander powder, jeera powder, red chilli powder, and a little oil to season the dough lightly so the dhoklis have flavour of their own
• Toor Dal (Arhar Dal or split pigeon peas): The base of the dish. Pressure cooked until soft and mashed while hot
• Whole Spices: Mustard seeds, cumin seeds, fenugreek seeds, cinnamon, cloves, and dried red chillies form the tempering and add warmth and depth to the dal
• Aromatics: Crushed ginger, garlic, green chilli, and curry leaves for depth of flavor and aroma 
• Tomatoes: Chopped and cooked down to add mild tang, texture, and balance
• Spice Powders: Basic Indian spices like coriander, jeera, turmeric, Kashmiri red chilli powders, and salt for flavor, color, and seasoning 
• Tamarind Pulp: Adds gentle tanginess that keeps the dal bright and balanced
• Jaggery: Just a small amount to bring that subtle Gujarati sweetness and round out the flavours
• Fresh Coriander Leaves: Used as garnish for freshness 

Richa’s Top Tips

• Rest the dough: Let the dhokli dough rest for 10–15 minutes before rolling. This relaxes the gluten and makes the dhoklis easier to roll and cut without shrinking back.
• Roll evenly, not too thin: Keep the dhoklis neither paper-thin nor too thick. Even thickness helps them cook through and prevents them from turning mushy or staying raw in the centre.
• Mash the dal while hot: Always mash the cooked toor dal while it’s still hot. This gives you a smoother, more cohesive dal and prevents lumps later.
• Add dhoklis to boiling dal: Make sure the dal is gently boiling before adding the dhoklis. This helps them cook evenly and stops them from sticking together.

Frequently Asked Questions

Storage Tips

• Fridge: Store leftover dal dhokli in an airtight container for up to 2 days. It thickens as it sits, which is normal for this dish.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen the consistency. Stir carefully while warming so the dhoklis don’t break. Microwave reheating works too, but stir once halfway through for even heating.
• Freezing: Dal dhokli isn’t ideal for freezing. The dhoklis tend to soften too much once thawed, which changes the texture of the dish.

Serving Ideas

Dal dhokli is a filling meal on its own, but adding a simple side or two can round your plates nicely. Here are combinations that work without overpowering the dish:

• With Cucumber Raita: A plain cucumber raita or boondi raita adds a cool, creamy contrast to the warm, spiced dal and balances the slight sweetness beautifully.
• With Kachumber Salad: A fresh onion, tomato, and cucumber salad with lemon juice and salt adds crunch and freshness, and keeps the meal light.
• With Chaas (Buttermilk): A glass of lightly spiced chaas on the side makes the meal feel complete, especially on warmer days. It also helps cut through the richness of the dal.
• With Papad: Roasted or fried papad adds that much-needed crunch and texture alongside the soft dhoklis and dal.

Customisation Ideas

• Use ghee for the tempering: Swapping oil for ghee gives the dal a deeper, rounder flavour and makes the dish feel richer without changing anything else.
• Add roasted peanuts: Stir in a small handful at the end for crunch and a nutty contrast to the soft dhoklis.
• Add sesame seeds to the tadka: A pinch of white sesame seeds in the tempering adds subtle nuttiness and works especially well with the slight sweetness of the dal.
• Make it extra garlicky: Lightly fry a few sliced garlic cloves separately in ghee and spoon them over the dal dhokli before serving for added depth.

Why You’ll Love This Curry  

Dal dhokli is a well-balanced meal in a very literal sense. Toor dal provides plant-based protein and fibre, while the whole wheat dhoklis add complex carbohydrates that digest slowly and keep you full for longer. Traditionally, this dish was meant to be eaten on its own, which is why the dal is seasoned with jaggery and tamarind to cover sweet, sour, and savoury notes in one pot. It’s practical food built around nutrition and balance.

Dal dhokli will fit easily into your everyday meals because it’s reliable, satisfying, and made from ingredients you probably already have. It works just as well for a lunch fix as it does for an easy dinner, and often tastes even better as the flavours settle. If you do make it, I’d love to see how it turns out, tag me on Instagram @my_foodstory!

Watch Dal Dhokli Recipe Video

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Dal Dhokli

Dal Dhokli is a Gujarati one-pot dish that's easy to make, filling, and very comforting. Serve as is or with papad and salad and on the side for extra texture.

Course Main Course

Cuisine Indian

Diet Vegetarian

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 12 minutes minutes

Total Time 17 minutes minutes

Servings 4 servings

Calories 201kcal

Author Richa

Ingredients

For dhokli (approx. 45 dhoklis)

• ½ cup atta
• A pinch of turmeric
• ½ teaspoon coriander powder
• ¼ teaspoon red chilli powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon oil
• 2-3 tablespoons water

For cooking dal

• ½ cup tur dal
• ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 ½ cups water

For dal dhokli

• 1 ½ tablespoons cooking oil
• ½ teaspoon mustard seeds rai
• ½ teaspoon cumin seeds jeera
• ¼ teaspoon fenugreek seeds methi
• ½ inch dalchini
• 4 cloves
• 2 dry red chillies whole
• ½ teaspoon asafoetida hing
• 1 green chilli crushed
• 1 teaspoon ginger crushed
• 6-7 garlic cloves crushed
• 15-20 curry leaves
• ½ cup chopped tomatoes
• ½ teaspoon coriander powder
• ¼ teaspoon jeera powder
• ⅛ teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon kashmiri chilli powder
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• 2 ½ – 3 cups water divided
• 2 tablespoons roasted peanuts
• 1 tablespoon tamarind pulp
• 1 teaspoon jaggery
• 1 tablespoon coriander leaves

Instructions

dhokli

• Add all the ingredients to a bowl & mix everything well. add water as required to make a semi-soft dough, the dough should be of the same stiffness as a chapati dough. Cover with a damp cloth & set aside for 10-15 minutes.
  ½ cup atta, A pinch of turmeric, ½ teaspoon coriander powder, ¼ teaspoon red chilli powder, ¼ teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon oil, 2-3 tablespoons water
• Divide the dough into 3 portions & form round balls. coat one ball with dry flour & roll into a large chapati/roti, it shouldn’t be too thick nor too thin. Cut the chapati into squares, diamonds or strips using a knife (I have cut them into diamonds). Set aside on a plate covered with a damp cloth to avoid drying.
• Repeat the same for rest of the dough.

dal dhokli

• Wash the toor dal & soak it in water for 30 minutes. Once soaked, add dal into a pressure cooker with 1 ½ cups of water & cook dal for 3-4 whistles or approx. 10 minutes and let it de-pressurize by itself. Open the cooker lid & while the dal is still hot, mash well and set aside.
  ½ cup tur dal, ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder, 1 ½ cups water
• Heat oil in a kadai or pan, add the cumin seeds, mustard seeds, cloves, cinnamon, red chillies, fenugreek seeds, asafoetida and saute for a few seconds. Add crushed green chilli, ginger & garlic, curry leaves and saute for a minute on medium. Add tomatoes, spice powders – coriander, cumin, turmeric, kashmiri chilli & salt, stir & cook over medium flame for 2-3 minutes till the tomatoes get slightly mushy.
  1 ½ tablespoons cooking oil, ½ teaspoon mustard seeds, ½ teaspoon cumin seeds, ¼ teaspoon fenugreek seeds, ½ inch dalchini, 4 cloves, 2 dry red chillies, ½ teaspoon asafoetida, 1 green chilli, 1 teaspoon ginger, 6-7 garlic cloves, 15-20 curry leaves, ½ cup chopped tomatoes, ½ teaspoon coriander powder, ¼ teaspoon jeera powder, ⅛ teaspoon turmeric powder, 1 teaspoon kashmiri chilli powder, ¾ teaspoon salt
• Add cooked dal, 2 ½ cups of water to adjust the consistency of the dal. Add jaggery & tamarind pulp, stir well & boil for a minute. While the dal is boiling, add the dhoklis & gently stir them. Cook for 12-14 minutes on low till the dhoklis are cooked while stirring gently 2-3 times in between to ensure the dal does not stick to the bottom of the kadai. If the dal gets too thick, you may add ¼ – ½ cup of water to adjust the consistency to be that of soup. Garnish with coriander leaves and serve.
  2 ½ – 3 cups water, 2 tablespoons roasted peanuts, 1 tablespoon tamarind pulp, 1 teaspoon jaggery, 1 tablespoon coriander leaves

Video

Notes

1. Dal has to be mashed while it is still hot to get a smooth consistency.
2. Keep dhoklis covered with a damp kitchen towel till using as they dry out. 
3. After adding dhoklis, stir gently as they tend to break.
4. While serving, dal dhokli should be of the consistency of a soup.

Nutrition

Calories: 201kcal | Carbohydrates: 25g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 0.03g | Sodium: 706mg | Potassium: 282mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 444IU | Vitamin C: 81mg | Calcium: 81mg | Iron: 2mg

This article was researched and written by Harita Odedra.

The post Dal Dhokli appeared first on My Food Story.

One of the simplest whiskey cocktails there is – vanilla cinnamon old fashioned will quickly become your favourite! Check our pro tips to make the best Vanilla Old Fashioned!

As a mum, I don’t get to go out for drinks very often. Hence, we call our friends over and make our drinks at home! And with New Year’s right round the corner, I have been experimenting with our mixes this week, and I think I have found the perfect winter cocktail – the Old Fashioned.

I have elevated this classic with a lovely twist that’s perfect for the cold winters With notes of lavender and cinnamon, this is one of those warming drinks that smell like all your favorite things about the holiday season! We love our whiskey here, so believe me when I tell you this version of Old Fashioned is amaze and you need to try it this season 🎄

Why Is It Called Old Fashioned

I always wondered why the cocktail was named Old Fashioned. So I did a bit of googling. Apparently, cocktails were just about gaining popularity in the 1860s. While some people loved to experiment with flavours, others would crave the simple stuff they drank before cocktails became a thing. So they’d say “Hey, can I have it the old-fashioned way?” Old habits die hard?

The Old Fashioned is equally loved by whiskey enthusiasts and cocktail lovers alike. It’s a beautiful and elegant drink, with complex flavours, yet it’s so simple to make! The perfect blend of sweet, bitters and a light spice works almost poetically with the Bourbon whiskey.

Old Fashioned Ingredients

Whiskey – the main ingredient and the base of this recipe. We have used bourbon whiskey for its sweeter, vanilla, oak, and caramel notes. But rye whiskey will work too

Angostura bitters – adds aromatic depth and gentle spice that balance the sweetness of sugar, reduce the intensity of whiskey, and help round up flavors for more depth

Simple syrup – to add a dash of sweetness to the cocktail

Vanilla extract and cinnamon – these aren’t traditional ingredients, but they add a lovely flavor and aroma that makes it sooo perfect for winters!

Orange wedge – the peel and wedge separated to infuse some citrus-y freshness and vibrance

Richa’s Top Tips

• Good quality ingredients are a must!
• Don’t use vanilla essence because it has a very synthetic flavour that just doesn’t work. Use pure vanilla extract instead.
• Bourbon can be substituted with rye whisky.
• You can add some orange zest while making the syrup to get that citrusy zing and elevate the flavour
• Use a big cube of ice, that’s how it’s traditionally done!
• Show off your bartending skills by flaming the orange peel lightly before squeezing it over the cocktail!

Food Pairings

Because of its smoky flavours, the old fashioned goes really well with meat roasts and barbecues.

• Sticky Chicken Wings
• Chicken Shawarma
• Chipotle Pulled Pork
• Lamb Chops with Figs
• Spicy Bacon Deviled Eggs
• Bacon Mushroom Chicken Roulade

This might be slightly different than the traditional Old Fashioned out there, but trust me, once you try this version, it’s going to change the game for you! Subtle, sweet, citrus-y and super warming, these are the flavors you just won’t be able to have enough.

If you try this recipe, be sure to send me your recreations over on my Instagram @my_foodstory. It’s always so fun hearing from you guys!

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Vanilla Cinnamon Old Fashioned

Vanilla Cinnamon Old Fashioned is a twist on the classic cocktail. This whiskey based drink has warm notes from cinnamon and vanilla and is a delicious winter drink

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Total Time 5 minutes minutes

Servings 1 cocktail

Calories 238kcal

Author Richa

Ingredients

• 60 ml Bourbon Whiskey
• 2 dashes Angostura Bitters or Orange juice
• 30 ml Simple Syrup
• 1 dash Vanilla Extract
• 1 stick Cinnamon
• 1 wedge Orange peel and flesh separated
• Ice as required

Instructions

• Squeeze the orange pulp and add along with simple syrup, vanilla extract and bitters to an old fashioned glass and stir to combine.
• Add ice cubes, orange peel and the cinnamon stick. Pour whiskey into the glass, on the rocks (ice) and mix using a stirrer to combine.

Nutrition

Calories: 238kcal | Carbohydrates: 26g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 18mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 22g | Calcium: 35mg | Iron: 1mg

This article was researched and written by Urvi Dalal.

The post Vanilla Cinnamon Old Fashioned appeared first on My Food Story.

These Korean Chicken Wings are insanely addictive! Spicy, crispy, and full of umami, I bet you’ll never go back to having wings any other way!

Gochujang and chicken wings might not be the most common combination, but once you try it, it’s an absolute game changer! I first had these Korean Baked Gochujang Chicken Wings at a Korean Restaurant a few years ago and instantly fell in love! Since then, I always have a tub of gochujang in the fridge and this amazing dish at every party I have hosted!

If you love spicy food, then you’re going to love these Korean chicken wings! They’re insanely easy to make (like literally just three simple steps – marinate, rest, bake), and make for the perfect appetizer. Pair it with chilled beer for game nights and parties or serve it with fried rice or noodles for a complete meal. Don’t forget to make extras because these gochujang chicken wings disappear faaast 🔥

Korean Chicken Wings Ingredients

Chicken wings – opt for skin-on fresh chicken wings for maximum flavor and crispiness

Soy sauce – dark soy sauce for umami and saltiness

Gochujang – aka Korean chili paste. Delivers heat, umami, and a slight sweetness

Red chili flakes – for heat. can be adjusted according to your tolerance.

Rice vinegar – for tanginess and freshness

Honey – for sweetness to balance out the heat of gochujang and chilli flakes. honey also adds signature chicken wings stickiness

Ginger and garlic – for flavor and aroma

Oil – for brushing. Any neutral-flavored oil like vegetable, peanut, sunflower, canola, etc. will work here

Sesame seeds – used as garnish to add a mild earthy flavor and texture

What is Gochujang?

For all those who are a little stumped Gochujang is a spicy, fermented paste made from red chili, glutinous rice, fermented soybeans, and salt. And it is awesome and I’ve been adding it to everything including these Korean inspired baked chicken wings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Richa’s Top Tips

• When baking, avoid overcrowding the pan and place the wings in a single line to prevent soggy wings. If you are cooking for a crowd, bake in batches to allow the Korean chicken wings to become crispy.
• Pat the wings dry before marinating so the sauce clings better and the wings brown more evenly.
• Don’t drench the wings in oil, just a light brushing of oil is enough to make them crispy and allow browning.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a hot oven or air fryer to bring back some crispness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it softens the skin.
• Make-ahead: You can marinate the wings up to 24 hours in advance and keep them refrigerated until ready to bake.
• Freezing: Cooked wings can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven.

Serving Ideas

• My favorite way to serve this is as an appetizer with chilled beer
• Add some stir-fried veggies, mashed potato, and gravy for a holiday dinner party
• Throw in some sautéed green beans, and serve along with fried rice or noodles for a special weeknight dinner

These chicken wings are definitely making it to the next party menu, and honestly, the one after that, and the one after that too. Because once you try these crispy, crunchy, absolutely addictive Korean chicken wings, it’s hard to imagine a gathering without sticky fingers, cold beer, and another batch on the table.

I’d absolutely love to know if you experimented with this brand new flavor and what you thought about it. Leave me a comment or tag your pictures @my_foodstory on Instagram!

Watch Korean Chicken Wings Recipe Video

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Korean Baked Gochujang Chicken Wings

Spicy, crispy, full of umami and insanely addictive Korean baked gochujang chicken wings. You’ll never go back to having wings any other way!

Course Snacks & Appetizers

Cuisine Korean

Diet Halal

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes minutes

Total Time 35 minutes minutes

Servings 6 Portions

Calories 253kcal

Author Richa

Equipment

• Oven

Ingredients

• 1 kilogram Chicken Wings
• 1/4 cup Soy Sauce
• 4 tablespoons Gochujang Korean chili paste (Or substitute with Sriracha)
• 1 tablespoon Red Chili Flakes
• 1 tablespoon Rice Vinegar
• 3 tablespoons Honey
• 1 tablespoon Ginger minced
• 1 tablespoon Garlic minced
• Oil for brushing
• Sesame seeds for topping

Instructions

• Mix together all in the ingredients except oil in a bowl or tupperware box so that the mixture coats the wings evenly.
• Marinade for at least 2 hours in the refrigerator, or for best results, overnight.
• When ready to bake, preheat oven to 200 C/400 F.
• Line a baking sheet with foil and place the wings equidistant from each other on the sheet. Brush with oil.
• Bake for 12-15 minutes on each side, brushing with remaining marinade and oil before turning them. In the last five minutes crank up the heat and let the wings broil so that they are nice and charred. Top with some sesame seeds and serve immediately.

Video

Notes

1. Always use fresh wings. If you’re going to use frozen wings, let them thaw in the fridge overnight before baking. Pat them dry really well, this will remove the excess water. 
2. Knowing when the chicken is cooked: The internal temperature of cooked chicken should read 165F/73C. The most handy way to tell would be using a meat thermometer. If you do not own one, you can cut and check the juices. If the meat is white in colour and the juices run clear that means the chicken is cooked. The meat or the juices should not have a red/pinkish hue.
3. The “fire” flavour comes from the Gochujang which is a staple Korean condiment. It is a fermented savoury chilli paste.  It can be substituted with Sriracha or Thai red chilli paste. 
4. Serve along with some dipping sauce like a cheese dip, ranch dressing or a fry sauce!

Nutrition

Calories: 253kcal | Carbohydrates: 13g | Protein: 18g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 69mg | Sodium: 609mg | Potassium: 208mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 10g | Vitamin A: 177IU | Vitamin C: 6mg | Calcium: 17mg | Iron: 1mg

This article was researched and written by Urvi Dalal.

The post Korean Chicken Wings appeared first on My Food Story.

Spicy Korean Chicken Thighs in Gochujang Sauce is an intensely flavored chicken recipe made in a cast iron pan for extra crispy, juicy thighs and a finger licking marinade!

This Korean Chicken Wings with Gochujang sauce is one of those recipes I come back to when I want big flavour but without too much effort. It’s spicy, sticky, slightly sweet, and deeply comforting, the kind of dish that feels indulgent but still very doable on a regular day. Everything happens in one pan, and most of the work is done by the marinade.

This is the kind of food I make when I want something bold and satisfying. These Korean chicken wings are great for a relaxed dinner, sharing with friends, or even meal-prepping when you’re craving something with a little attitude. It’s comforting, flavour-packed, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Korean Chicken Wings Ingredients

• Chicken – skin-on, bone-in thigh pieces work best as they stay juicy through the high temperatures
• Light soy sauce – adds umami and saltiness
• Gochujang sauce – the heart of the dish that’s responsible for the adding heat, richness, and depth of flavor
• Honey – balances out the heat, and adds a subtle sweetness
• Ginger garlic paste – for flavor and aroma
• Rice vinegar – helps add some bright, tangy flavors to balance out the heat
• Oil – I have used vegetable oil, but any neutral-flavored works
• Seasoning – salt and pepper
• Garnish – Toasted sesame seeds and green onions added a lovely nutty texture and freshness
• Chilli flakes – for extra heat. Feel free to skip if you have a low spice tolerance

Frequently Asked Questions

Richa’s Top Tips

• If you want a more sauce-y consistency, add in a little water to the pan
• Be careful while adding salt as gochujang and soy sauce already contain a fair amount of salt
• Sear on high, then cook low and slow to keep the chicken juicy
• Marinating the chicken overnight gives the best results. But if you are in a hurry, 2 hours should also do the trick

Serving Ideas

• I love serving this with candied bacon and sautéed green beans for a wholesome meal.
• You can also serve it on a bed of mashed potatoes along with stir-fried veggies for a holiday party meal
• Shred leftovers and use them in wraps or rice bowls.
• Serve it with fried rice or noodles

Storage Ideas

• Make-ahead: The chicken tastes even better the next day as the flavours deepen.
• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

This spicy Korean chicken is bold, comforting, and deeply satisfying. It’s the kind of recipe you want to make again and again and again. Rich sauce, tender chicken, and just the right amount of heat make it one you’ll want to keep in regular rotation.

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Spicy Korean Chicken Thighs in Gochujang Sauce

Spicy Korean Chicken Thighs in Gochujang Sauce – an intensely flavoured chicken recipe made in a cast iron pan for extra crispy, juicy thighs and a finger licking marinade!

Course Main Course

Cuisine Asian, Korean

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 40 minutes minutes

Total Time 45 minutes minutes

Servings 5 portions

Calories 327kcal

Author Richa

Ingredients

• 6 Chicken Thighs skin on, bone in
• 1 1/2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil
• Toasted Sesame Seeds and Green Onions for topping

For the Marinade:

• 1/4 cup light Soy Sauce
• 2 tablespoons Gochujang spicy Korean chili paste
• 3 tablespoons Honey
• 1 tablespoon Garlic Paste
• 1 teaspoon Ginger Paste
• 2 tablespoons Rice Vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon Chili Flakes optional
• Salt and Pepper to taste

Instructions

• Mix together all the ingredients under marinade. Be careful not to add additional salt without tasting because both soy sauce and gochujang have salt in them.
• Add chicken and toss to coat the chicken. Marinate for at least two hours or overnight. If refrigerating overnight, take the chicken out half an hour before cooking to bring it to room temperature.
• Heat oil in a cast iron skillet and add chicken thighs and all the marinade to it. Sear on high flame for 2-3 minutes on either side. Reduce the flame to low, add half a cup of water and cover and cook for 30 to 40 minutes till the chicken is cooked through. Turn the chicken once halfway. Add more water if you’d like more sauce and simmer.
• Once the chicken is cooked through, top with sesame seeds, chopped green onions and serve immediately.

Notes

1. Always use fresh wings. If you’re going to use frozen wings, let them thaw in the fridge overnight before baking. Pat them dry really well, this will remove the excess water. 
2. Knowing when the chicken is cooked: The internal temperature of cooked chicken should read 165F/73C. The most handy way to tell would be using a meat thermometer.
3. The “fire” flavour comes from the Gochujang which is a staple Korean condiment. It is a fermented savoury chilli paste.  It can be substituted with Sriracha or Thai red chilli paste. 
4. Serve along with some dipping sauce like a cheese dip, ranch dressing or a fry sauce!

Nutrition

Calories: 327kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 20g | Fat: 22g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 111mg | Sodium: 632mg | Potassium: 282mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 148IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 15mg | Iron: 1mg

 This article was researched and written by Urvi Dalal.

The post Spicy Korean Chicken Thighs in Gochujang Sauce appeared first on My Food Story.

New Orleans Shrimp Sausage Gumbo has an intense, complicated flavor that’s unlike anything you have ever had before. It takes a little time and patience, but it’s worth it the time you spend on it because it will bring the best kind of satisfaction!

We are taking a little detour from MFS’s regular recipe style which is fast and easy, to share with you a slightly complicated, time consuming recipe. But but but don’t close the window yet because trust me when I say – you WILL want to try this New Orleans sausage shrimp gumbo! It is one of those recipes that should be a weekend project like my chicken biryani or dal makhani and are 100% worth the time and effort you put into them. Plus they last for days so you can enjoy them till you’ve really had your fill.

Equipment

You only need one piece of equipment to successfully make gumbo and that’s a or any other heavy bottomed pot. And the reason is that these avoid the roux and the gumbo from sticking to the bottom and burning.

Making the Roux for Gumbo

Making the roux for gumbo is probably the most complicated and the most essential step of the recipe if you want to make your gumbo from scratch. I recommend leaving everything else, and concentrating on this one task till it’s over.

A roux is a base thats usually created with oil/butter and flour. A roux for bechamel sauce (white sauce) is usually light in color where the flour is cooked in butter for a minute or two. But for a gumbo, equal parts of fat and flour are cooked for anywhere between 20-30 minutes. I prefer the 20 minute roux.

Start by heating oil or butter (I used a combination) and adding flour. Keep stirring the flour fairly regularly so that it doesn’t stick to the bottom or start burning – its important to keep moving it around, till it changes color from light to a deep golden brown (like the color of peanut butter). For me, this happened at the 20 minute mark. You can take it farther and cook it for 30 minutes to get a deep milk chocolate color but the gumbo tends to be thinner in that case. Here’s how the color will change (these are just screenshots from the video I made to demonstrate this recipe and I recommend you watch the video for detailed instructions).

Mise En Place

Once your roux is ready, quickly gather the rest of your ingredients. I recommend getting mise en place ready in advance. This means dicing the onions, celery, capsicum, chopping the sausages, cleaning the shrimp etc. So that everything is at arm’s length when you start the recipe.

The Stock for Gumbo

I think this is as essential as the roux. The stock you choose will help determine some of the flavors in this gumbo. Since this is a shrimp sausage gumbo, I recommend using shrimp stock which is really easy to prepare at home – just boil the head, tail or any part of the shell in water for 40-60 minutes and drain. Your shrimp stock is ready. But if that’s effort you don’t want to take, use chicken stock for this recipe.

Okra in Gumbo

This is a highly debatable ingredient. Most authentic gumbo recipes will use okra in their recipe because it is native to the region where gumbo originates, and is a natural thickener. Since we are cooking our roux so much (the deeper the color of the roux, the lesser its thickening abilities), the gumbo needs an additional thickener which comes from okra or lady finger (as we refer to it here in India). Some people dislike it because of its slimy texture but okra is only slimy if its not cooked properly. Here’s how to cook okra so it is not slimy As it cooks, it completely loses the slime and just becomes vegetable that’s soft and almost creamy.

Serving Gumbo

Gumbo is essentially served with rice, but I’m one of those who loves dipping a slice of crusty bread in it. But you are the boss of your gumbo so take your pick – rice, potatoes or bread.

Other Gumbo Variations

There are different variations you can do while making gumbo. Just use the same base, spices and vegetables and experiment with other ingredients you have on hand.

• Chicken Sausage Gumbo
• All Seafood Gumbo
• Sausage Seafood Gumbo
• Crawfish Gumbo
• Turkey Gumbo

This is really one of those recipes that seems complicated the first time. But the second time you try it, you’ll be cooking like a boss! And for those leftovers, you will attempt it again and again.

Watch Shrimp Sausage Gumbo Recipe Video

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New Orleans Shrimp Sausage Gumbo

Watch Recipe Video Above. New Orleans Shrimp Sausage Gumbo has an intense, complicated flavor that comes from making a patiently toasted roux, cajun spices, shrimp stock and finally okra which makes this thick, rich stew even better. This is a weekend project that’s totally worth the time you’ll spend on it because a big pot of this will bring the best kind of satisfaction.

Course Soups

Cuisine Creole

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 45 minutes minutes

Total Time 1 hour hour

Servings 6 Portions

Calories 463kcal

Author Richa

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup Canola Oil
• 3 tablespoons Butter
• 1/2 cup All Purpose Flour
• 1 Bayleaf
• 1 cup White Onions finely chopped
• 1 cup Celery finely chopped
• 1 cup Capsicum finely chopped (green bell pepper)
• 1 teaspoon Garlic
• 4 cups Low sodium Shrimp Stock
• 1/2 cup Crushed Tomatoes / tomato puree
• 1/2 cup Homemade Cajun Seasoning see Note 6 below
• 5-6 Andouille Sausages diced diagonally
• 2 cups Okra diced
• 15-20 Shrimp medium
• Salt to taste
• Parsley chopped (for garnishing)

Instructions

• Start by preparing the roux. Heat oil and butter in a dutch oven or heavy bottomed pot and add flour. Cook the flour while stirring fairly regularly on a medium flame for 20 minutes till it gradually deepens in color to the color of peanut butter. It’s important to keep stirring so that the flour doesn’t stick to the bottom or burn (watch the video above to see how the flour changes color as it cooks).
• Once the roux has reached the desired color, add the bayleaf, onions, celery and capsicum and stir for two to three minutes till the onions are tender. Add garlic and slowly start adding shrimp stock while stirring continuously till the mixture thickens a little and comes to a boil.
• Stir in crushed tomatoes or tomato puree, cajun seasoning and salt (if using) along with sausages and okra. Mix this well and bring this to a boil. Once the stew starts boiling, reduce the flame and cover and let it simmer for 15 minutes or till the okra is cooked and not slimy anymore.
• Add shrimp to the pot, simmer for 8-10 minutes and turn off the flame. (if using smaller or larger sized shrimp, cooking time will vary slightly). Top with chopped parsley and serve hot. This gumbo keeps for days and leftovers taste even better!

Video

Notes

1. Don’t burn the roux: If you don’t have a heavy bottomed pot, make the roux in a cast iron skillet or heavy bottomed pan and then transfer it to a regular soup pot. The key is to keep the flour from burning or sticking to the bottom.
2. Green Bell Peppers: I love the taste and flavor that green bell peppers add. They add a sharpness without being spicy. Avoid using yellow or red bell peppers because they are sweeter in taste.
3. Sausages: My favorite sausages to use in gumbo are andouille but if you can’t get your hands on them, use any variety of pork sausages you like.
4. Shrimp Stock: Shrimp stock makes this gumbo really flavorful. Its best made at home and is really easy to make. Just cook shrimp heads and tails in water and then strain them and reserve the liquid.
5. Okra: If you plan to skip the okra, your gumbo will not be as thick. If your okra is over ripened, it will take longer to cook.
6. Cajun Seasoning: We use homemade cajun seasoning without the salt so that its easy to adjust salt in the recipe. However, if you are using store bought seasoning, reduce the cajun seasoning to 2 tablespoons, taste and then add more.

Nutrition

Calories: 463kcal | Carbohydrates: 26g | Protein: 22g | Fat: 32g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Cholesterol: 84mg | Sodium: 707mg | Potassium: 819mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 5591IU | Vitamin C: 45mg | Calcium: 114mg | Iron: 5mg

More Recipes for Meat Lovers

• One-Pot Mexican Rice and Sausages
• Creamy Pumpkin Sausage Mac and Cheese
• One Pot Curried Sausages and Potatoes
• Creamy Chicken Meatballs in Mushroom Sauce
• Slow Cooker Teriyaki Meatballs with Pineapple

The post New Orleans Shrimp Sausage Gumbo appeared first on My Food Story.

This Mutton Nihari is one of those classic recipes that are comforting, wholesome, and delicious. It’s rich without being heavy, and fills the kitchen with the most comforting aromas while it cooks away slowly.

This mutton Nihari is one of those of dishes I make when I am hosting and need to cook for a crowd. It’s a one-pot recipe with a long cook time, but don’t let that intimidate you. Once you marinate the mutton and fry your onions, this dish basically cooks itself. But the resulting flavors carry so much depth, it’s insane!

Another thing I love about nalli nihari is that it’s a make-ahead dish. It should ideally be rested for a couple hours before serving, but I love making this the previous day to allow the flavors to really develop. My favorite way to eat this nihari recipe is with some soft and fluffy kulcha along with lemon wedges and onion rings. But this recipe tastes just as good with naan, roti, or even steamed rice.

Nihari Ingredients

• Mutton – bone-in leg or shoulder mutton pieces add depth of flavor and body. You can use boneless pieces, but make sure to adjust the cooking time as boneless mutton cooks much faster

• Salt and turmeric – used in the marinate to flavor, color, and tenderize the meat
• Oil – I have used sunflower oil, but any neutral-flavored oil will work here
• Onions – thinly sliced, fried until golden and then ground into a paste to create the backbone of the gravy
• Aromatics – ginger and garlic for flavor, sharpness, aroma, and depth
• Masala – I have used Shan’s Nihari Masala for an authentic flavor. You can use any brand that’s available to you, or even make your own spice mix at home.
• Besan and wheat flour – help thicken the gravy and add body to the dish.
• Garnishes – julienned ginger, coriander leaves add freshness

Frequently Asked Questions

Richa’s Top Tips

• Be patient while frying onions as they take a while to brown but also tend to burn very quickly. Fry them in batches to make sure everything is cooked evenly
• Stir continuously while roasting the flours to prevent them from burning
• Always cook Nihari slowly on low heat. Rushing the cook time will affect both texture and flavor

Serving Ideas

• We love eating this with kulcha, but it tastes just as good with naan or roti
• Pair with plain steamed rice if you prefer something lighter.
• Always serve with ginger juliennes, lemon wedges, and onions on the side so everyone can adjust to taste.

Customisation Ideas

• Add a little extra water if you prefer a thinner, more broth-like nihari.
• Increase ginger garnish if you like a sharper, fresher finish.
• Replace part of the oil with ghee for a richer, more traditional flavour.
• Replace mutton with chicken or another protein of your choice. Just make sure to adjust the cook time according to what you’re using.

Storage Ideas

• Refrigeration: Store cooled nihari in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: Nihari freezes well for up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the fridge.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on low heat, adding a little water to loosen the gravy if needed.
• Flavour note: Like most slow-cooked dishes, it often tastes even better the next day.

This mutton nihari is slow, indulgent, and deeply satisfying. It’s the kind of dish that reminds you why some recipes are meant to take their time. It’s rich without excess, comforting without being heavy, and best enjoyed hot, fresh, and unhurried.

Watch Nihari Recipe Video

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Mutton Nihari

This Mutton Nihari is a delicious, warming curry that's perfect for winters. Serve with kulcha, naan, or steamed rice for a satisfying and unforgettable meal.

Course Main Course

Cuisine Indian

Diet Halal

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 2 hours hours

Total Time 2 hours hours 5 minutes minutes

Servings 12 servings

Calories 721kcal

Author Richa

Ingredients

• 2 kilograms bone-in mutton leg / shoulder
• 1 ½ teaspoon salt divided
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 cup sunflower or any neutral flavoured cooking oil
• 8 onions thinly sliced, 500 gms
• 1 ½ inch ginger roughly chopped, 65 gms
• 40 garlic cloves 35 gms
• 12 ½ cups water
• 1 ½ packets Shan nihari masala 90 gms
• ½ cup besan gram flour
• ½ cup atta wheat flour
• 1 ½ inches ginger julienned
• 2 tablespoons roughly chopped coriander leaves
• 2-3 onion rings
• 2-3 lemon wedges

Instructions

• Take mutton, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder in a bowl, mix well and set aside to marinate for 30 minutes.
  2 kilograms bone-in mutton leg / shoulder, 1 ½ teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• Heat oil in a deep kadai or pan, add ⅓ portion of sliced onions and fry on low till they turn golden brown. Drain oil well and transfer the fried onions to a plate. Repeat the same process for the rest of the onions. Add fried onions, ginger & garlic to a mixer grinder with ½ cup of water and grind to a paste.
  1 cup sunflower or any neutral flavoured cooking oil, 8 onions, 1 ½ inch ginger, 40 garlic cloves, 12 ½ cups water
• Take ¾ cup of the oil used for frying onions in a kadai, add marinated mutton and saute of medium for 2-3 minutes till they get lightly roasted.
• Add brown onion paste and saute for 3-4 minutes on low till the rawness goes.
• Mix nihari masala in 1 cup of water, add to the kadai, mix well. Add 9 cups of water, cover and cook for 1 hour 30 minutes till the mutton is cooked well and the meat falls off the bone.
  1 ½ packets Shan nihari masala
• While the meat is cooking, take besan and atta in a kadai and roast on low for 3-4 minutes till the rawness goes. Stir continuously while roasting so they do not turn brown.
  ½ cup besan, ½ cup atta
• Once the meat is cooked, mix the roasted flours in 2 cups of water so that there are no lumps formed, add to the kadai, mix continuously till it starts boiling and cook on low for 7-8 minutes until the oil floats on top. Scoop out the oil/rogan floating on top of the gravy and transfer to a bowl.
• For serving, pour 2-3 ladles of hot nihari mutton gravy to a bowl, add 2 tablespoons of hot rogan, 2-3 ginger juliennes and coriander leaves. 2-3 onion rings and a lemon wedge to be served on the side.
  1 ½ inches ginger, 2 tablespoons roughly chopped coriander leaves, 2-3 onion rings, 2-3 lemon wedges

Video

Notes

1. Onions are fried in batches to ensure optimum use of oil.
2. Nihari tastes the best after resting for 2-3 hours.

Nutrition

Calories: 721kcal | Carbohydrates: 19g | Protein: 31g | Fat: 58g | Saturated Fat: 19g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 31g | Cholesterol: 122mg | Sodium: 410mg | Potassium: 608mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 10IU | Vitamin C: 12mg | Calcium: 80mg | Iron: 3mg

This article was researched and written by Urvi Dalal.

The post Mutton Nihari | Nalli Nihari appeared first on My Food Story.