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Yesterday — 5 December 2025Main stream

Easy Butter Garlic Naan

By: Richa
5 December 2025 at 06:12

 If you’ve ever wished you could make restaurant-style Garlic Naan at home without any stress, you’re going to love this recipe!

close up image of butter garlic naan stacked one on top of the other

Making restaurant-style garlic naan at home is easier than you’d think. All you need is a few pantry staple ingredients and 30 minutes to recreate the best, homemade garlic naan. Since this is a no-yeast recipe, the dough needs almost no resting time, which means you can whip up a batch whenever the craving for it hits. 

This recipe keeps things really easy, even if you’re new to making naan. And once you get the hang of it, you can switch things up to add a little chilli to turn it into a chilli-garlic naan, or try our no-yeast naan variation when you want something even quicker.  can get the same restaurant-style charred bits and a smokey flavour on the stovetop.  

Ingredients for Garlic Naan

  • Dry Ingredients: Maida, salt, sugar (helps tenderize, brown and balance flavors), and baking powder (for that signature naan fluffiness)make up the base of this naan.
  • Wet Ingredients: Milk and water help bring the dough together, and a little oil keeps it smooth and easy to roll.
  • Garlic Topping: Finely chopped garlic and coriander for that classic flavour.
  • Finishing: Melted butter brushed on top once the naan is cooked to give it that glossy, restaurant-style finish.

Richa’s Top Tips

  • Make sure the pan is hot enough, but not smoking before placing the rolled dough, or it won’t stick properly. 
  • Once you make dough balls, leave them to rest on a greased plate or baking tray to prevent them from sticking to the plate or each other. Rest the dough properly: Those 30 minutes of resting time make a huge difference. The dough relaxes, becomes easier to roll, and cooks softer.
  • Roll it evenly (and not too thick): A thin, even naan puffs better on the tawa and cooks without turning chewy.
  • Use water to help it stick: Brushing the non-garlic side with water before placing it on the tawa ensures the naan sticks well and won’t fall off when you flip the pan.
  • Cook on medium heat: Too high and the naan burns before it cooks through, too low and it dries out. Medium heat gives the perfect puff and colour.
  • Press the garlic in gently: Lightly pressing the garlic onto the dough helps it stay put while cooking instead of falling off on the tawa.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why isn’t my naan puffing up?

This usually happens when the dough isn’t soft enough or the naan is rolled too thick or too thin. Make sure the dough is well-rested and roll it out evenly so it has room to puff on the tawa.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

You can swap part of the maida for atta, but using 100 percent whole wheat will make the naan denser and less soft. A half-and-half mix works best if you want a healthier version.

How do I make the naan soft and not chewy?

Keep the heat at medium, roll the dough thin, and don’t overcook it. Removing the naan as soon as it gets those golden brown spots keeps it soft.

Do I need a tandoor or oven for this recipe?

No, this stove-top method gives you the same smoky, charred effect without any special equipment.

Storage Tips

  • Fridge: Keep leftover naan wrapped in foil or in an airtight container for 2 days. Warm it on a tawa with a little butter to bring back the softness.
  • Freezer: Garlic naan freezes really well. Cool completely, stack with butter paper between each piece, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to a month.
  • Reheating: Heat on a tawa for 1–2 minutes until soft. Avoid the microwave for too long because it can make the naan chewy.

Serving Ideas

Garlic Naan goes with almost any creamy curry or sabzi, but here are some tried-and-loved pairings that turn it into a full, comforting meal:

Customisation Ideas

  • Extra-Garlic Lover’s Naan: Mix grated garlic directly into the dough and brush the naan with garlic butter at the end for a double-hit of flavour.
  • Cheesy Garlic Naan: Right after flipping the naan and letting it puff, sprinkle shredded mozzarella or cheddar on the cooked side. It melts instantly and tastes like restaurant-style cheese naan.
  • Chilli-Garlic Twist: Mix finely chopped green chillies into the garlic topping before pressing it onto the dough. Adds heat without changing the recipe structure.
  • Herb Explosion: Swap coriander for fresh chives or parsley if you want a milder, fresher flavour profile.
image of butter garlic naan stacked one on top of the other on a wooden board

Did You Know?

The word “naan” comes from the Persian word nān, which simply means “bread.” The earliest mentions of naan date back to 1300 AD in the writings of Indo-Persian poet Amir Khusrau. It was originally baked in royal Mughal kitchens—making naan the original food of emperors.

Now it’s over to you! Make a fresh, cozy, homemade garlic naan without special equipment using simple ingredients for that amazing restaurant-style flavour. Serve it hot, share it around, and watch how quickly it becomes a favourite. 

Don’t forget to tag me on Instagram @my_foodstory when you make it. I’d love to see your fluffy naans!

Watch Garlic Naan Recipe Video

image of butter garlic naan stacked one on top of the other on a wooden board
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Garlic Naan

Learn how to make delicious crispy butter garlic naan at home without using yeast or a tandoor!
Course Side Dishes
Cuisine Indian
Diet Vegetarian
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4 Portions
Calories 167kcal
Author Richa

Ingredients

For naan

  • 3 tablespoons milk
  • 3 tablespoons water
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 1 pinch sugar
  • 1 ½ + ⅛ teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 cup maida
  • 2 teaspoons sunflower oil divided

Other

  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped garlic
  • 1 tablespoons finely chopped coriander leaves
  • 1 tablespoons butter melted

Instructions

  • Add all dry ingredients, maida, salt, sugar, baking powder in a bowl and mix well. Add 1 teaspoon oil, milk & water and knead for 7-8 minutes till you get a soft, smooth dough. Add oil on the surface of the dough & keep covered to rest for 30 minutes.
    3 tablespoons milk, 1 pinch salt, 1 pinch sugar, 1 ½ + ⅛ teaspoon baking powder, 1 cup maida, 2 teaspoons sunflower oil, 3 tablespoons water
  • Herb butter: Take melted butter in a bowl, add coriander leaves. Mix and set aside.
    1 tablespoons butter, 1 tablespoons finely chopped coriander leaves
  • Heat tawa on medium.
  • Divide the dough into 3-4 balls. Take a ball of dough, place it on a rolling platform and roll into a round or oval shaped naan, about 6 inches long and ⅛ inch thick. Sprinkle chopped garlic and gently press with fingers.
    1 tablespoon finely chopped garlic
  • Brush the non garlic side with water and place the water side on the hot tawa so that it sticks well to the tava (watch video for details). cook on high until bubbles form on top, about 1-2 minutes. Flip the tava over so that the naan is directly over the flames. Set the heat to medium and move the tava around till more bubbles form and naan is brown all over and charred around the edges.
    2 tablespoons water
  • Alternatively, if the naan does not stick to the tava or slips out while frying, you may hold the naan with tongs and fry the naan over flames on either side till they turn brown.
  • Transfer the naan on a plate, brush with the herb butter and serve. Repeat the same process of making naan with the rest of the dough.

Video

Notes

  • If the dough is extremely sticky, add a teaspoon of flour at a time till it’s workable. The dough should be soft and pliable
  • Roll the naan thin so that it puffs up better
  • To make this in the oven, heat the oven to 220C or as high as your oven will go. Place the baking tray in the oven to get it nice and hot. Roll out the naan with all the toppings. Brush the other side with water and place it water-side down on the hot baking tray, being careful not to burn yourself. Now place the baking tray back in the oven. After 3-4 minutes once you see the naan puff up and see bubbles on top, turn on the broil function (or only the top element) and cook it for another 2-3 minutes till it browns a bit. Then take it out and brush it with butter.

Nutrition

Calories: 167kcal | Carbohydrates: 25g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 9mg | Sodium: 78mg | Potassium: 60mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 113IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 46mg | Iron: 2mg

This article was researched and written by Harita Odedra.

The post Easy Butter Garlic Naan appeared first on My Food Story.

Before yesterdayMain stream

Mushroom Biryani

1 December 2025 at 00:20

If you thought there’s no such thing like veg biryani, then mushroom biryani will change your mind. It’s quicker and lighter, but carries the same depth of flavor as the classic non-vegetarian counterparts!

A plateful of mushroom biryani with a spoon on the side and a bowl of raita

If you love biryani but want something lighter, quicker, and just as flavour-packed as the classic, this Mushroom Biryani is it! From caramelised onions in the base and biryani masala to perfectly cooked, fluffy basmati rice, this one’s got it all. And because mushrooms cook so fast, this biryani feels indulgent but comes together in a fraction of the time.

This is the kind of recipe you make on a Sunday and then wonder why you don’t cook it more often. If you have tried my makhani paneer biryani or jackfruit biryani, then you’d know just how delicious and fulfilling vegetarian biryanis can be. And if you haven’t, this is your sign to find out.

Mushroom Biryani Ingredients

  • Mushrooms: The hero of this biryan. The meaty texture and earthy flavors of mushroom mimic meat in biryani, and it soaks up the marinades beautifully. I would recommend cutting mushrooms in half to keep their texture intact
  • Curd + Spice Marinade: Curd, ginger-garlic paste, and powdered spices tenderize the mushrooms and give the gravy a creamy, spicy base. The biryani masala (I recommend Shan biryani masala) and fresh, homemade garam masala to depth and that classic biryani flavour
  • Whole Spices: Cumin, cardamom, bay leaf, cinnamon, cloves, and mace are bloomed in hot oil to form the aromatic foundation of the biryani. These spices add warmth, fragrance, and that signature restaurant-style aroma
  • Onions (Birista): Slow-cooked onions bring caramelized sweetness and richness. We add this to the gravy as well use it as a topping for flavor and texture
  • Tomatoes: Adds just enough acidity to balance the spices and form a thick base masala base
  • Fresh Herbs (Mint + Coriander): For freshness and to brighten the flavors
  • Basmati Rice: Long-grain basmati ensures fluffy, separate grains. Par-boiling it with whole spices seasons the rice lightly before layering
  • Saffron + Milk: Adds aroma and that lovely yellow color of biryani
  • Ghee: A finishing drizzle that ties everything together with warmth and richness

How to Make Mushroom Biryani (Step-by-Step)

1. Soak the Rice: Start by washing and soaking the basmati rice for 30 minutes. This helps the grains stay long, fluffy, and separate.

2. Marinate the Mushrooms: Mix mushrooms with ginger garlic paste, curd, biryani masala, and some basic Indian spices. Let them marinate for 10–15 minutes — they absorb flavour quickly, so this short marination is enough.

3. Prepare the Biryani Base: Heat oil in a biryani handi or kadhai. Add sliced onions and sauté on low heat for 10–12 minutes until golden. Remove about ¼ cup and keep aside for later layering.
Push the remaining onions to one side of the pan. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Add bay leaf, black cardamom, green cardamoms, cinnamon, cloves, and mace, and sauté for a few seconds till aromatic.
Add ginger garlic paste and cook briefly till fragrant. Add tomatoes, mix with the onions and spices, and sauté for 2–3 minutes until soft.
Now add the marinated mushrooms and cook on low heat for 10–12 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and the gravy thickens. Sprinkle 3 tablespoons of the birista plus 1 tablespoon each of mint and coriander.

4. Cook the Rice: Heat water with cinnamon, cardamom, salt, oil, and lemon juice. Add the soaked rice and cook for 5–6 minutes until 75% done (the grains should be soft on the outside but firm inside). Drain immediately to stop further cooking.

5. Layer the Biryani: Layer the rice on top of the mushroom gravy. Sprinkle the remaining birista, saffron milk, ghee, and the leftover mint and coriander.

6. Dum (Steaming) Time: Place the biryani pot over a heated tawa and steam on low heat for 20–25 minutes.
Let the biryani rest for another 30 minutes before serving — this helps the flavours settle beautifully.

Richa’s Top Tips

  • Don’t skip soaking rice: Soaked basmati rice cooks faster and stays perfectly fluffy.
  • Roast the onions slowly: Frying the onions on low heat gives you golden birista without burning.
  • Always marinate mushrooms: Even 10 minutes makes a big difference as mushrooms soak flavour very fast.
  • Cook rice only till 75% done: It will finish cooking during dum, so don’t wait for it to soften fully.
  • Use fresh mint and coriander: They brighten the biryani and add that restaurant-style aroma.
  • Let it rest after steaming: This step is magic to make the biryani become fluffier and more aromatic.

Storage Tips

Leftover biryani tastes even better the next day as the spices have a chance to deepen and the flavours to settle.

  • Refrigerator: Mushroom biryani stays perfectly fresh for up to 2 days. Add a splash of water or milk when reheating to bring some of the moisture back.
  • Freezer: Biryani can be frozen for up to 1 month. Cool completely, portion it, and reheat covered in the microwave or on the stovetop

Customisation Ideas

  • Add veggies: I love adding peas, potatoes, carrots, or cauliflower along with the mushrooms to for added texture and nutrition.
  • Make it richer: To make this creamer and richer, layer in a splash of ghee or extra cream. It’s definitely indulgent, but sooo perfect for special occasions.
  • Make it spicier: Add in a slit green chilli or two if you like it spicy! .
  • Make birista in advance: I usually make a big batch of birista at home and store it in an airtight container. It stays good for up a month, and saves sooo much time when making biryani. However, you can always use store-bought birista in a pinch.
  • Make it vegan: You can easily make this vegan by using plant-based yogurt and skipping the ghee and saffron milk.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent the rice from turning mushy?

This trick to perfectly fluffy and separated grains of rice is to cook it only 75% done. Also avoid over mixing the layers to prevent it from breaking.

I don’t have saffron. Can I make the biryani without it?

Saffron adds aroma and colour, but you can skip it or use a pinch of turmeric mixed with milk.

Which variety of mushroom work best for mushroom biryani?

I have used button mushrooms as they are easily available here and the soft, spongy texture soaks up the flavors beautifully. But oyster, shiitake, and cremini also work really well here.

Serving Ideas

  • Onion Raita – The classic combo that balances the spices perfectly.
  • Boondi Raita – Adds a salty, crunchy contrast.
  • Cucumber or Mixed Veg Raita – Light, cooling, and refreshing.
  • Kachumber Salad – Fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, lemon, and coriander for brightness.
  • Pickled Onions – Adds tang and a bit of crunch.
  • Green Chutney – Great if you like a spicy side.
  • Papad – Roasted or fried for texture.
  • Simple Dal (like Dal Tadka) – Makes the meal more wholesome without overpowering the biryani.
  • A squeeze of lemon – Right before serving to lift all the flavours.
Close up of a dish of mushroom biryani to show the fluffy texture of rice, separate grains of rice and pieces of mushrooms dotted all around it

Mushroom Biryani is one of those dishes that feels comforting and indulgent without being complicated. It’s the kind of recipe that works for weeknights, weekends, or when you just want something special without too much effort.

If you try this recipe, don’t forget to send me your recreations over on my Instagram @my_foodstory. It’s always so special to hear from you!

Watch Mushroom Biryani Recipe Video

A plateful of mushroom biryani with a spoon on the side and a bowl of raita
Print

Mushroom Biryani

Aromatic, spicy, and just as flavorful as it's non-veg counterparts, this mushroom biryani is a quick and easy vegetarian biryani you won't be able to have enough of!
Course Main Course
Cuisine Indian
Diet Vegetarian
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 4 portions
Calories 497kcal
Author Richa

Ingredients

marination

  • 4 packets mushrooms halved, 800 gms
  • 1 teaspoon ginger garlic paste
  • ½ teaspoon red chilli powder
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • ½ teaspoon garam masala
  • 2 tablespoons biryani masala I like using Shaan biryani masala
  • ½ cup curds whisked

For the biryani

  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds jeera
  • 1 black cardamom
  • 3-4 green cardamoms
  • 4-5 cloves
  • 2 inches dalchini
  • 1 blade mace
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 ½ cup thinly sliced onions 140 gms
  • 2 tablespoons ginger garlic paste
  • 1 tomato cut into ½ inch cubes
  • 1 pinch of saffron soaked in 3 tablespoons warm milk
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped mint leaves / pudina divided
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped coriander leaves divided
  • 2 teaspoons ghee

For cooking rice

  • 1 ½ cups basmati rice 265 gms
  • 8 cups water
  • 2 tablespoons salt
  • 2 dalchini
  • 2 green cardamoms
  • 1 tablespoon groundnut oil

Instructions

  • Wash & soak rice in water for 30 minutes.
    1 ½ cups basmati rice
  • Marinate mushrooms with ginger garlic paste, red chilli powder, coriander powder, garam masala, biryani masala & curds for 10- 15 minutes.
    4 packets mushrooms, 1 teaspoon ginger garlic paste, ½ teaspoon red chilli powder, 1 teaspoon coriander powder, ½ teaspoon garam masala, 2 tablespoons biryani masala, ½ cup curds
  • Heat oil in a kadai or biryani handi, add sliced onions and saute on low for 10-12 minutes till they turn golden brown. Remove approx. ¼ cup of roasted onions(birista) and set aside. Move the roasted onions to the side of the biryani handi, add cumin seeds, once they crackle, add bay leaf, black & green cardamoms, cinnamon, cloves, mace & saute for a few seconds till they sizzle. Add ginger garlic paste and saute for a few seconds till fragrant, add tomatoes, mix with roasted onions and aromatics and saute for 2-3 minutes till they soften. Add marinated mushrooms, saute for 10-12 minutes on low till mushrooms are cooked and the gravy thickens. Sprinkle 3 tablespoons of birista, 1 tablespoon each of chopped mint & coriander leaves.
    2 tablespoons oil, 1 teaspoon cumin seeds, 1 black cardamom, 3-4 green cardamoms, 4-5 cloves, 2 inches dalchini, 1 blade mace, 2 bay leaves, 1 ½ cup thinly sliced onions, 2 tablespoons ginger garlic paste, 1 tomato, 2 tablespoons finely chopped mint leaves / pudina, 2 tablespoons finely chopped coriander leaves
  • Boil water with dalchini, cardamoms, salt, oil, lemon juice, add rice & cook for 5-6 minutes until it is 75% cooked. Drain immediately & add the rice to the biryani handi. Spread the rice to form a layer on top of the mushroom gravy. Sprinkle remaining 1 tablespoon of birista, saffron milk, ghee, remaining 1 tablespoon of chopped mint & coriander leaves.
    1 pinch of saffron soaked in 3 tablespoons warm milk, 2 teaspoons ghee, 8 cups water, 2 tablespoons salt, 2 dalchini, 2 green cardamoms, 1 tablespoon groundnut oil
  • Place the layered biryani pot on a heated tawa and steam on low for 20-25 minutes, rest for 30 minutes and serve.

Video

Nutrition

Calories: 497kcal | Carbohydrates: 69g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 19g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 0.03g | Cholesterol: 22mg | Sodium: 3623mg | Potassium: 387mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 470IU | Vitamin C: 11mg | Calcium: 206mg | Iron: 2mg

The post Mushroom Biryani appeared first on My Food Story.

Crispy Honey Chilli Potatoes

By: Richa
19 November 2025 at 08:05

Crispy Honey Chilli Potatoes are a super addictive snack – fried chilli potato fingers are tossed in a sesame honey chilli sauce that’s sweet and spicy and will give you sticky fingers that you’ll be licking clean!

close up image of crispy honey chilli potatoes to showcase their texture

Let’s just say we ate these straight from the wok.

If you have ever eaten honey chilli potatoes, what really stands out is how crisp these potatoes are, in spite of being tossed in the sauce. They retain their signature crunch and that’s really what this recipe is all about.

I really went all out to achieve that texture and taste but without all the excess oil, so hello to the crispiest honey chilli potatoes made healthier in the air fryer! But don’t worry, this does not the change the texture at all; everything’s still crispy, crunchy, but it’s sooo much healthier that you’ll want to eat it all the time!

The Secret To Crispy Potatoes

The key to making super crispy honey chilli potatoes is to air fry the potato fingers twice. Air frying or deep frying them only once results in potatoes that don’t hold their shape and get soggy after a few minutes.

So the potatoes are first coated in a dry mixture, air fried or deep fried till they are almost cooked and then cooled for a bit. They are then coated in a second coating of batter and fried again till they are really crisp outside and cooked perfectly inside. This is a similar technique that a lot of people use to make French fries.

The last step is to coat them in a sesame honey chilli sauce that adds an extra layer of texture and is sweet and spicy.

Ingredients for Chilli Potatoes

Here’s what you’ll need for batter frying these potatoes:

  • Potatoes: Use old potatoes. Cut into 1/3 inch thickness, approx 2-3 inches long. Ideally cut them all the same size so they cook at the same time
  • Chilli Paste: Basically ground chillies made by soaking dried red chillies in hot water for 10-15 minutes and grinding to a paste
  • Chilli Powder: Ground red chilli powder, different from ‘chili powder’ that you get in the U.S. which is a seasoning mix
Ingredients for honey chilli sauce

The honey chilli sauce is really addictive. Its sweet, spicy, sticky and like a coating on the potatoes.

  • Garlic: Finely chopped – lots of it because flavour bomb!
  • Honey: Plain honey, flavoured will not work well here
  • Ketchup: It has the perfect balance and umami
  • Soy sauce: Light soy sauce to add saltiness and rich flavour
  • Chilli Paste and Chilli Flakes: To pack in some heat. If you are not a fan, reduce both the quantities in the sauce
  • Sesame Seeds: They add flavour and crunch and stick to the potatoes because of the sauce
  • Cornflour: Thickening agent. You can substitute with potato starch or tapioca starch
  • Vinegar: To add some acidity and balance

Richa’s Top Tips

  • It’s important to cut the potato fingers into a uniform size so that they cook evenly while frying. I like to cut them into 1/4 inch to 1/3 inch thickness
  • The temperature of the oil should be between 175C to 180C for frying the potato fingers. 
  • You will need approximately two cups oil for deep frying, and you can use the same oil for the second frying
  • You may adjust the quantity of honey as per your taste.
  • wok is the best way to coat the potatoes in sauce, because it provides enough space to toss them around, but if you don’t have one, feel free to use a frying pan

Serving Ideas

Honey Chilli Potatoes make an incredibly addictive Indo-Chinese appetizer, but they’re also super versatile. Here are a few ways to enjoy them:

  • As a Party Starter: Serve them hot, straight from the wok, as part of your Indo-Chinese spread.
  • With Fried Rice or Noodles: Pair with Veg Fried Rice, Hakka Noodles, or even Schezwan Rice for a restaurant-style combo.
  • Loaded Lettuce Cups: Spoon the crispy potatoes into crunchy lettuce leaves for a fun bite-sized party snack.
  • Wrap or Roll: Stuff into a tortilla or roti with some extra sauce and spring onions for an easy fusion wrap.
crispy honey chilli potatoes in a wok straight from the stove

Once you try making these crispy honey chilli potatoes at home, there’s no going back! I have made these as snack for the family, as a party appetiser, as well as a side dish. And let me tell you, each time they’ve disappeared within minutes!

If you make this dish, don’t forget to send me pictures over on my IG @my_foodstory. I love seeing you guys make my recipe!

Watch the Recipe Video:

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close up image of crispy honey chilli potatoes to showcase their texture
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Crispy Honey Chilli Potatoes

Crispy Honey Chilli Potatoes are a super addictive Indo-Chinese snack that usually deep fried, but we've made healthier in the air fryer without compromising on taste or flavor. It's sweet and spicy and will give you sticky fingers that you'll be licking to get every last bit of sauce!
Course Snacks & Appetizers
Cuisine Chinese
Diet Vegan, Vegetarian
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 4 Portions
Calories 437kcal
Author Richa

Ingredients

  • 4-5 Potatoes 450 grams, peeled and cut into fingers (1/3-1/2 inch thick, 2 -3 inches long), refer to Note 1
  • Oil for brushing/deep frying refer to Note 2

First Coating:

  • 2 teaspoon Chilli powder
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Paste
  • 1 teaspoon Red Chilli Paste
  • 3 tablespoon Corn Flour
  • 3 tablespoon All Purpose Flour
  • 1 tablespoon Salt

Second Coating:

  • cup All Purpose Flour
  • cup Corn Flour
  • ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper
  • ¼ cup Water

For the Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoon Oil
  • 1 tablespoon Garlic finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Red Chilli Flakes
  • 3 tablespoon White Sesame Seeds
  • 1 teaspoon Vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons Soy Sauce
  • 2 tablespoon Tomato Ketchup
  • 2-3 tablespoons Honey
  • 2 teaspoons Red Chilli Paste
  • 1/4 cup Water
  • 1 teaspoon Corn Flour
  • 2 tablespoon Spring Onion chopped (green part only)

Instructions

Prepping

  • Wash potato fingers well in running water and set aside. This removes any extra starch in the potatoes.

First coating

  • Mix together corn flour, all purpose flour, chilli powder, chilli paste and salt. Coat the potato fingers evenly with this flour mix.

First frying of potato fingers

    For deep frying

    • Heat oil in a wok or karahi and deep fry the potato fingers in batches till the potato is half cooked. It’s important that you drop one potato finger at a time into the oil so they don’t stick together (watch video above to see how to do this). Remove potato fingers on a tissue lined plate and let them cool.

    For air frying

    • Preheat the air fryer at 180C, brush the air fryer mesh with oil, place potato fingers on the mesh with some gap between them so they do not stick together (watch video to know how to do this). Brush with oil and air fry for 4 minutes just until they are half cooked. Transfer to a plate and repeat the same for the rest of the potato fingers.

    For second coating

    • Make a medium thick batter with all purpose flour, corn flour and pepper powder by adding just a few tablespoons of water to make a thick batter. Add the half done fries and gently toss so the fries are coated with the batter.

    Second frying of potato fingers

      For deep frying

      • Heat oil in a wok or karahi and deep fry the potato fingers in hot oil till crisp and golden. Drain on kitchen paper and keep aside.

      For air frying

      • Brush the air fryer mesh with oil, place the potato fingers on the mesh with some gap in between so they do not stick together. Brush with oil and air fry at 200 C for 6 minutes, flip once and air fry at 200C for 2 minutes till they turn golden and crisp. Transfer to a plate and repeat the same for the rest of the potato fingers.(important to note that the air fried potato fingers must be used immediately in the stir fry and served hot as they tend to turn soggy & chewy later)

      Honey chilli stir fry

      • Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in another wok, add chopped garlic and stir fry for a few seconds. Add chili flakes, sesame seeds and saute for another minute to toast them. Add vinegar, soy sauce, ketchup, honey and the red chilli paste and stir together.
      • Mix 1 teaspoon corn flour with 1/4 cup water to make a slurry and add this to the honey- vinegar mixture in the wok and stir for a few seconds till it thickens.
      • Add the fried potato fingers and spring onion greens and toss together so that they are coated evenly in sauce.
      • Switch off the flame and serve immediately garnished with some more sesame seeds and spring onion greens.

      Video

      Notes

      1. It’s important to cut the potato fingers in a uniform size so they cook evenly while frying.
      2. The temperature of the oil should be between 165C to 175C for frying the potato fingers. 
      3. You will need approximately two cups oil for deep frying, and you can use the same oil for the second frying
      4. You may adjust the quantity of honey as per your taste.
      5. air fried potato fingers must be used immediately in the stir fry and served hot as they tend to turn soggy & chewy later.
      6. A wok is the best way to coat the potatoes in sauce, because it provides enough space to toss them around, but if you don’t have one, feel free to use a frying pan.

      Nutrition

      Calories: 437kcal | Carbohydrates: 80g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 0.03g | Sodium: 1930mg | Potassium: 1046mg | Fiber: 7g | Sugar: 12g | Vitamin A: 751IU | Vitamin C: 49mg | Calcium: 104mg | Iron: 4mg

      This article was researched and written by Urvi Dalal.

      The post Crispy Honey Chilli Potatoes appeared first on My Food Story.

      Kung Pao Tofu (Air Fryer)

      12 November 2025 at 09:42

      If you’ve been looking for a tofu recipe that actually makes you want to eat tofu, this is it. A mix of spice, crunch, and that sweet-salty Indo-Chinese glaze – it’s everything you could want in one bowl.

      an image of kung pao tofu freshly cooked, still in the frying pan

      If you’ve been putting off eating tofu because you’re not sure how to make it taste good, this Kung Pao Tofu recipe is going to change that. Crispy, golden tofu tossed in a glossy, spicy-sweet sauce with peanuts and peppers will turn any  skeptic into a fan. 

      Kung Pao Tofu is the perfect mix of heat, tang, and texture that makes every bite exciting. If you’re feeling inspired to try more, you might also love Sweet Chili Tofu Stir Fry for something sticky and bright, or Soondubu Jjigae (Korean Soft Tofu Stew) for a cozy night-in kind of meal. But first, let’s get into this fiery, flavor-packed Kung Pao Tofu.

      Kung Pao Tofu Ingredients 

      Here’s everything you need to bring this bold, spicy-sweet tofu dish together:

      • Tofu: Firm or extra-firm tofu works best here. It holds its shape and crisps up beautifully in the air fryer or pan
      • Light and dark soy sauces: Light soy is used in the marinade to add saltiness and umami to the tofu, while both light and dark soy sauces are used in the kung pao sauce to add umami, saltiness, and that authentic Indo-Chinese color
      • Rice Vinegar: Adds a hint of sourness to the dish 
      • Oyster sauce: Perfect to add a little sweetness and umami. Can be replaced with Hoisin sauce if you are a vegetarian 
      • Honey: Gives the dish a sweet, sticky glaze authentic to Indo-Chinese cooking. Can be replaced with maple syrup too
      • Corn flour: To coat the tofu evenly and make it crisp
      • Salt and sugar: For balance and seasoning
      • Oil: I have used a mix of sunflower oil and toasted sesame oil (for a lovely nutty flavor) for this recipe  
      • Spices: Pepper powder, whole black pepper, dried red chillies, and sichuan pepper for a fiery kick 
      • Aromatics: Garlic, ginger, and spring onion whites for flavor and aroma 
      • Roastes peanuts: For some added crunch and texture 
      • To Finish: Cornflour slurry to thicken the sauce, and a handful of chopped spring onion greens for freshness and color.
      an image of crispy air fried tofu ready to be turned in to kung pao tofu

      Richa’s Top Tips

      • Use an air fryer: The air fryer makes this recipe a solid winner with less oil, more crunch. Just remember to give the tofu some space in the basket so it cooks evenly.
      • Don’t skip the prep boil: Briefly boiling tofu in salted water seasons it from the inside and gives it a firmer, bouncier texture that holds up perfectly in the sauce.
      • Keep the stir-fry quick: Once the sauce hits the pan, everything moves fast. Have your tofu, peanuts, and spring onions ready before you start so nothing burns.
      • Adjust the heat your way: The spice level is totally flexible, use fewer dried chillies or skip the Sichuan pepper if you prefer mild, or add extra for a fiery kick.
      • Finish strong: A drizzle of sesame oil right at the end brings out that nutty, restaurant-style flavor and makes everything taste a little extra special.

      Frequently Asked Questions

      What is Kung Pao flavor like?

      Kung Pao flavor is a mix of spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet. It’s got that umami kick from soy sauce and some heat from Sichuan peppers and dried chillies to warm you up without being overwhelming.

      What is Kung Pao made of?

      Traditional Kung Pao dishes use a combination of chillies, garlic, ginger, peanuts, and a soy-based sauce that’s thickened slightly for that glossy, sticky coating. This tofu version keeps all the same flavors but swaps the chicken for crispy tofu.

      Can I make Kung Pao Tofu without an air fryer?

      Absolutely. You can pan-fry the tofu in a little oil, the key is to make sure the tofu is well-marinated and cooked until the edges are crisp before tossing it in the sauce.

      Is Kung Pao Tofu healthy?

      Yes, especially when air-fried! Tofu is high in protein and low in saturated fat, while the dish itself uses minimal oil and plenty of natural flavor from spices and aromatics. Just go easy on the sauce if you’re watching sodium or sugar intake. 

      Can I make this kung pao tofu recipe vegan?

      Absolutely, you can! Simply swap honey with maple syrup and oyster sauce with hoisin sauce for a vegan version.

      a close up image of kung pao tofu to show it's color and texture

      Storage Tips

      • Fridge: You can store leftover Kung Pao Tofu in an airtight container for up to 3 days
      • Freezer: It’s best to freeze the sauce and tofu separately if possible. The tofu may lose its crispness once thawed but will still taste great when reheated. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
      • Reheating Tip: If you want to revive that just-cooked crunch, pop the tofu pieces into the air fryer for 3–4 minutes before mixing them back into the reheated sauce.
      • Avoid: Leaving cooked tofu out at room temperature for more than 2 hours, as the sauce contains soy and sugar, which can spoil quickly in warm conditions.

      Serving Ideas

      Here are some serving ideas, all of which pair beautifully with the sweet-spicy, nutty flavors of this dish:

      • Veg Fried Rice: A classic pairing! The mild, savory notes of fried rice balance out the punchy Kung Pao sauce perfectly.
      • Egg Fried Rice: Adds a little richness and protein for a wholesome, balanced meal.
      • Garlic Noodles: The garlicky aroma and soft noodles soak up that glossy Kung Pao sauce beautifully.

      Customisation Ideas

      • Add a veggie overload: Toss in broccoli florets, zucchini, or snap peas for extra crunch and color. They soak up the Kung Pao sauce beautifully while keeping the dish vibrant and fresh.
      • Go nuts (in the best way): Swap peanuts with cashews or almonds for a richer bite. Lightly toast them before adding to the stir-fry for a deeper flavor.
      • Try a protein remix: If you’re not in a tofu mood, swap it with paneer for a more Indian-style version or use tempeh for a chewier texture that still holds up to the sauce.
      • Make it saucier: If you love extra gravy with your rice or noodles, double the sauce ingredients and add a splash of water or stock while cooking to thin it slightly.
      kung pao tofu served on a bed of steamed rice with a fork ready to be eaten

      Kung Pao Tofu proves tofu doesn’t have to be bland, it can be bold, satisfying, and genuinely addictive when cooked right. Once you try it, you’ll probably find yourself making it again and again (and maybe even skipping takeout altogether).

      If you make this Kung Pao Tofu, don’t forget to tag @my_foodstory on Instagram, I’d love to see your version and how you make it your own!

      Watch Kung Pao Tofu Recipe Video

      Print

      Kung Pao Tofu

      This kung pao tofu recipe is easily the most delicious way to eat tofu. It's spicy, tangy, sweet, and has is a flavor and texture bomb. This recipe is a total must-try!
      Course Snacks & Appetisers
      Cuisine Indian Chinese
      Diet Halal
      Prep Time 5 minutes
      Cook Time 15 minutes
      Rest Time 15 minutes
      Total Time 35 minutes
      Servings 4 people
      Calories 345kcal
      Author Richa

      Equipment

      Ingredients

      To prep tofu

      • 500 gms tofu cut into ½ inch cubes
      • 4 cups water
      • 1 ¼ teaspoon salt

      Tofu marinade

      • 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon light soy sauce
      • 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
      • 2 teaspoons honey
      • ½ teaspoon crushed pepper
      • ¼ cup corn flour

      Kung pao sauce

      • 2 teaspoons vinegar
      • 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon sugar
      • 2 tablespoons light soy sauce
      • 2 teaspoons dark soy sauce
      • 2 teaspoons oyster sauce

      Kung pao stir fry

      • 2 tablespoons sunflower oil or any neutral flavoured oil
      • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
      • 4 dried red chillies broken into 2
      • 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon finely chopped garlic
      • 2 teaspoons finely chopped ginger
      • 4 spring onion whites thinly sliced
      • 1 teaspoon sichuan pepper crushed
      • ¼ cup groundnuts roasted and de-skinned

      Other

      • 1 teaspoon cornflour mixed in ¾ cup water to make a slurry
      • 1 tablespoon cooking oil additional ¼ cup cooking oil if deep frying
      • ¼ cup finely chopped spring onion greens

      Instructions

      Prepping tofu

      • Heat water in a pot with salt and when it boils, add tofu, cook on low for 2 minutes, take off the heat and rest for 5 minutes. Drain water and set aside to cool for 10 minutes. Discard the water.
        500 gms tofu, 4 cups water, 1 ¼ teaspoon salt

      Marinating tofu

      • Take tofu in a bowl, add all ingredients listed under marinade, give a good toss and set aside.
        1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon light soy sauce, 1 teaspoon rice vinegar, 2 teaspoons honey, ½ teaspoon crushed pepper, ¼ cup corn flour

      Air frying tofu

      • Pre-heat air fryer at 180 C. brush the airfryer basket with oil. Place the marinated tofu with some gap between each other and air fry at 180C for 5 minutes, brush oil, DO NOT FLIP and air fry at 190 C for 4 minutes. Air fry them in batches and set aside. It’s important to wait for 4-5 minutes until the fried tofu cools a bit to remove them easily from the basket as they stick to the basket when they are too hot.
        1 tablespoon cooking oil

      Deep Frying tofu

      • Heat oil in a wok or kadai and once it’s medium hot, drop the marinated tofu & fry on medium heat for 2-3 minutes or until they turn golden and crisp. Fry them in batches and set aside.
        1 tablespoon cooking oil

      Kung pao sauce

      • Take all the ingredients mentioned under kung pao sauce in a bowl & mix to combine well. Set aside.
        2 teaspoons vinegar, 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon sugar, 2 tablespoons light soy sauce, 2 teaspoons dark soy sauce, 2 teaspoons oyster sauce

      Kung pao stir fry

      • Heat oil & toasted sesame oil in a wok, add garlic, ginger, red chillies, spring onion whites and saute on high for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add sichuan pepper, groundnuts and toss them once. Add kung pao sauce and cook for 2 minutes. Add cornflour slurry while stirring continuously and cook for 2 minutes(see note 2). Add the fried tofu, spring onion greens and toss to combine well. Serve.
        2 tablespoons sunflower oil or any neutral flavoured oil, 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil, 4 dried red chillies, 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon finely chopped garlic, 2 teaspoons finely chopped ginger, 4 spring onion whites, 1 teaspoon sichuan pepper, ¼ cup groundnuts roasted and de-skinned, 1 teaspoon cornflour mixed in ¾ cup water to make a slurry, ¼ cup finely chopped spring onion greens

      Video

      Notes

      1. Tofu is prepped in this way to season them well, so do not skip it. 
      2. Cornflour slurry forms lumps if it is not stirred continuously.

      Nutrition

      Calories: 345kcal | Carbohydrates: 23g | Protein: 16g | Fat: 22g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 7g | Monounsaturated Fat: 12g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Sodium: 1755mg | Potassium: 197mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 321IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 203mg | Iron: 3mg

      This article was researched and written by Harita Odedra.

      The post Kung Pao Tofu (Air Fryer) appeared first on My Food Story.

      Dal Tadka

      10 November 2025 at 08:01

      If comfort had a flavor, it would taste like Dal Tadka. Creamy lentils, a smoky tadka, and flavours that instantly make any meal or day better.

      dal tadka served in a handi style vessel

      Who doesn’t love a warm bowl of dal with rice? It’s every Indian’s comfort food – simple, satisfying, and something you can never really go wrong with. Dal Tadka is that familiar, homely dish that’s a staple in every Indian household, whether it’s a busy weekday dinner or a Sunday lunch. 

      If you’ve never tried making it yourself, this dal tadka recipe is the perfect place to start. The process is simple and easy to follow. With a handful of basic ingredients, some slow simmering, and a final sizzle of ghee and spices, you can recreate this dish that always feels like a big hug.

      Dal Tadka Ingredients

      • Lentils (Dal): Toor dal is the classic choice here, but you can also use moong dal or a mix of both for a different texture.
      • Aromatics: Onion, tomato, garlic, and ginger form the base and add flavor and aroma. 
      • Spices: A simple mix of turmeric, red chilli powder, cumin seeds, garam masala, and salt is all you’ll need.
      • For the Tadka (Tempering): Ghee or oil, mustard seeds, dried red chillies, asafoetida (hing), and curry leaves make the sizzling mix that brings the dish to life.
      • Finishing Touches: Fresh coriander leaves for garnish, a squeeze of lemon for brightness, and an optional spoon of ghee on top for that rich, homely touch.

      How to Make the Dal

      Start by pressure cooking the lentils (dal) with turmeric and salt. Once cooked, mash it slightly and add oil, aromatics and spices and cooked until the dal is smooth and creamy. Keep the dal warm while you make the tadka.

      For the Tadka

      1. Heat ghee or oil in a small pan on medium heat.
      2. Add mustard seeds and let them pop.
      3. Stir in cumin seeds, dried red chillies, curry leaves, and hing. The spices will sizzle and release their aroma in seconds.
      4. Swirl the pan gently to keep everything from burning, the colour should turn golden, not dark.
      5. Pour the tadka over the hot dal and listen to that satisfying sizzle! Mix gently, garnish with coriander, and serve immediately.

      Richa’s Top Tips for Tastiest Dal Tadka

      • Use enough water for soaking: Lentils absorb a lot of water as they cook. Start with a good amount and add more as needed to get that thick-yet-pourable consistency.
      • Don’t rush the simmering: Dal tastes best when it’s allowed to simmer slowly.
      • Get the tadka right: The tadka is where all the magic happens. Make sure the oil or ghee is hot before adding mustard and cumin seeds,  they should crackle and release their aroma instantly.
      • Adjust spice to your liking: If you prefer mild flavours, reduce the red chilli or skip the green chillies in the tadka. You can always add more later.
      • For creamier dal: Mash a small portion of cooked dal with the back of your spoon and mix it in, it instantly makes the dal richer and smoother.

      Frequently Asked Questions

      What is Dal Tadka?

      Dal Tadka is a comforting Indian lentil curry made by cooking dal (lentils) until soft and finishing it with a flavorful spiced oil called tadka. It’s simple, hearty, and full of aroma from spices like cumin, garlic, and mustard seeds.

      What kind of dal is used for Dal Tadka?

      Toor dal (yellow split pigeon peas) or moong dal (yellow lentils) are the most common choices. You can also use masoor dal (red lentils) or a mix of two types for more texture and flavor.

      What’s the difference between Dal Fry and Dal Tadka?

      Both are lentil-based dishes, but Dal Tadka gets a fragrant tempering of spices poured over the cooked dal, giving it that smoky, restaurant-style flavor. Dal Fry, on the other hand, is made by cooking the lentils directly with the spices.

      Is Dal Tadka spicy?

      It’s mildly spiced, just enough to warm you up without overpowering the dish. You can always reduce or skip the red chillies if you prefer it milder.

      Can I make Dal Tadka without ghee?

      Absolutely! Use neutral oil or coconut oil for a vegan version, it’ll still taste delicious.

      Storage Tips

      • Fridge: Store leftover dal tadka in an airtight glass container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of water to bring back the creamy texture and if you have a few extra minutes, add a quick fresh tadka before serving for that just-made aroma.
      • Freezer: Dal freezes beautifully! Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on low heat while stirring.
      • Room Temperature: Since dal contains cooked lentils, avoid leaving it out for more than 2 hours, especially in warm weather.

      Serving Ideas

      Dal Tadka is that dish that instantly makes a meal feel complete. Here are a few easy, comforting ways to serve it:

      • With Jeera Rice: The most classic combination, soft, fluffy rice that soaks up every bit of that spiced dal goodness.
      • With Chapati or Phulka: Light, homemade rotis are perfect for scooping up creamy dal.
      • With Garlic Naan: For a little indulgence, pair it with Homemade Garlic Naan, restaurant-style comfort at home.
      • As a Bowl Meal: Spoon it over rice, top with onions, coriander, and a squeeze of lemon, your quick, wholesome meal is ready.
      • With Vegetable Sides: Try it alongside Aloo Gobi or Bhindi Masala for a full North Indian-style spread.

      Customisation Ideas

      • Smoky Dhaba-Style Twist: For that signature restaurant-style smokiness, add a piece of hot charcoal to the cooked dal, drizzle ghee over it, cover with a lid for a minute, and let the smoky aroma infuse through.
      • Vegan-Friendly Swap: Stick to sunflower or coconut oil and skip the ghee entirely. You’ll still get that beautiful flavor and aroma.
      • Mix of Dals: Try combining toor dal and moong dal in equal parts for a creamier texture and more depth of flavor.
      a close up image of dal tadka to show it's creamy texture and tadka

      A comforting bowl of dal will never get old or boring. So whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this recipe will always bring people to the table. Serve it fresh with rice or roti, and don’t forget that drizzle of ghee or squeeze of lemon before you dig in.

      If you make this, tag us on Instagram @myfoodstory, I’d love to see how your cozy bowl of dal turned out!

      Watch Dal Tadka Recipe Video

      a close up image of dal tadka to show it's creamy texture and tadka
      Print

      Dal Tadka

      Quick, cozy, and comforting with a finishing tadka that adds the most perfect flavor bomb to an otherwise simple dish, this dal tadka recipe will make you fall in love with dal.
      Course Main Course
      Cuisine Indian
      Diet Vegetarian
      Prep Time 5 minutes
      Cook Time 30 minutes
      Total Time 35 minutes
      Servings 4 people
      Calories 148kcal
      Author Richa

      Equipment

      Ingredients

      For cooking dal

      • ½ cup tur dal washed and soaked for 30 minutes
      • ¼ teaspoon salt
      • ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder haldi
      • ½ teaspoon groundnut oil or any neutral cooking oil
      • 1 ½ cups water

      For dal tadka

      • 2 tablespoons groundnut oil or any neutral cooking oil
      • ½ teaspoon cumin seeds jeera
      • teaspoon asafoetida hing
      • teaspoons finely chopped garlic
      • ½ teaspoon finely chopped ginger
      • 1 green chilli finely chopped
      • 1 medium onion finely chopped (¼ cup)
      • 1 tomato finely chopped (½ cup)
      • ¼ teaspoon salt
      • ¼ teaspoon cumin powder
      • ¼ teaspoon red chilli powder
      • ½ teaspoon coriander powder
      • 3 tablespoons finely chopped coriander leaves

      For tempering

      • 1 ½ teaspoons ghee
      • ¼ teaspoon cumin seeds jeera
      • 1 teaspoons finely chopped garlic
      • 3 red chillies whole
      • ¼ teaspoon red chilli powder

      Instructions

      • Add soaked dal to a pressure cooker with salt, turmeric powder, oil & water. Cook on high until the 1st whistle & on low till the 2nd whistle and take off the heat. If you prefer mushy dal, cook till the 3rd whistle. Let it depressurise by itself. Mash the dal using a whisk or ladle to get a smooth texture.
        ½ cup tur dal, ¼ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder, 1 ½ cups water, 2 tablespoons groundnut oil or any neutral cooking oil
      • Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan or kadai, add cumin seeds and once they crackle, add asafoetida, garlic & saute on high for a few seconds till garlic is fragrant. Add ginger, green chilli and saute for a minute. Add onions & saute on low for 1-2 minutes till onions turn light golden. Add tomatoes & cook for 1-2 minutes till they soften. Add salt, cumin powder, red chilli powder, coriander powder & saute for a few seconds. Add the cooked dal, give a good mix and cook for 8-10 minutes till dal absorbs all the masalas. Take off the heat.
        ½ teaspoon groundnut oil or any neutral cooking oil, ½ teaspoon cumin seeds, ⅛ teaspoon asafoetida, 1½ teaspoons finely chopped garlic, ½ teaspoon finely chopped ginger, 1 green chilli, 1 medium onion, 1 tomato, ¼ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon cumin powder, ¼ teaspoon red chilli powder, ½ teaspoon coriander powder
      • While dal is hot, heat a tempering or tadka pan with ghee. Add cumin seeds and once they crackle, add garlic & fry for 1-2 minutes on low till the garlic is light golden. Add red chillies & let them roast for a few seconds till they turn deep red but not dark. Take the pan off the heat, add red chilli powder, mix well and pour the tadka on the hot dal. Garnish with coriander leaves and serve.
        1 ½ teaspoons ghee, ¼ teaspoon cumin seeds, 1 teaspoons finely chopped garlic, 3 red chillies, ¼ teaspoon red chilli powder, 3 tablespoons finely chopped coriander leaves

      Video

      Notes

      1. Soaking dal before cooking, helps in cooking the lentils faster & helps to get smooth creamy consistency of the dal.
      2. The tempering or tadka adds authentic flavour, so do not skip it.

      Nutrition

      Calories: 148kcal | Carbohydrates: 14g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 5mg | Sodium: 345mg | Potassium: 333mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 680IU | Vitamin C: 57mg | Calcium: 38mg | Iron: 1mg

      This article was researched and written by Harita Odedra.

      The post Dal Tadka appeared first on My Food Story.

      Chicken Lollipop made at home – so easy!

      By: Richa
      31 October 2025 at 07:31

      Chicken Lollipops are everyone’s favourite party starter for a reason. And making them at home is so much easier than you think!

      Fried chicken lollipops ready to be served with schezwan sauce

      If there’s one appetiser that never lets you down, it’s Chicken Lollipop. Crispy edges, juicy meat, and that hint of spice that hits just right. There’s a reason you will find it at every celebration, from family get-togethers to late-night takeout orders. 

      With this recipe you can bring that crunchy, flavourful magic straight to your kitchen. I usually serve this with my homemade schezwan sauce, or Thai sweet chilli sauce, but it tastes really good with ketchup, mayo, or any other dip of your choice. 

      Chicken Lollipop Ingredients

      • Chicken Lollipops: These are the middle segments of chicken wings that are trimmed into a “lollipop” shape.
      • Marinade: A mix of soy sauce, red chilli sauce, vinegar, tomato ketchup, chilli powder, garlic paste, and salt.
      • Batter: Cornflour, all-purpose flour, and rice flour make a light, crisp coating. 
      • Egg: Helps the batter stick to the chicken while frying.
      • Oil: Use any neutral oil with a high smoke point, like sunflower or vegetable oil, for frying.
      • Ginger Paste: Adds warmth and a sharp kick. 

      Frequently Asked Questions

      What are Chicken Lollipops made of?

      They’re made using the middle segment of chicken wings. The meat is cut and pushed down to one end to form a “lollipop” shape that’s easy to hold and perfect for snacking.

      What cut is a Chicken Lollipop?

      It’s the mid-joint or “drumette” part of the wing. You can trim it yourself or buy them ready-made from most butcher shops or supermarkets.

      Can I make this recipe in an air fryer instead of deep frying?

      Yes! Lightly brush the lollipops with oil and air fry them at 200°C for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through. They’ll still be crispy and juicy with much less oil.

      How can I make it spicier or milder?

      For extra heat, add a pinch of red chilli flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the batter. To make it milder, use Kashmiri chilli powder instead of regular chilli powder, it gives colour without too much spice.

      Is Chicken Lollipop healthy?

      Like most fried foods, it’s best enjoyed in moderation. For a lighter version, you can air fry or bake them and skip the second fry step.

      Chicken lollipop marinating in a bowl

      Richa’s Top Tips

      • Marinate long enough: Even 30 minutes makes a difference, but if you have time, let the chicken rest in the fridge for a few hours. The flavours go deeper, and the meat stays juicier after frying.
      • Use rice flour for crunch: Don’t skip it! It’s the secret to that light, crispy texture that stays crunchy even after a few minutes.
      • Keep the oil hot but steady: Around 175–180°C is perfect. Too hot and the coating burns before the chicken cooks; too low and the lollipops turn soggy.
      • Double fry for extra crispiness: If you’re making these ahead for a party, fry them once to cook through, and again for a minute just before serving. 

      Storage Tips

      • Fridge: Store leftover chicken lollipops in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat them in an air fryer or oven at 180°C for 4–5 minutes to bring back some of the crispiness.
      • Freezer: You can freeze marinated or fried (but un-sauced) lollipops for up to a month. To reheat, let them thaw in the fridge overnight and air fry or deep fry for a few minutes before serving.
      • Room Temperature: If you’re serving them later the same day, keep them loosely covered on the counter for no more than 2 hours to maintain their texture.

      Serving Ideas

      Chicken Lollipops fit right into any setting, from game nights to festive dinners. Here are a few delicious ways to serve them:

      • With Schezwan Sauce: The classic combo that never fails, spicy, tangy, and just the right amount of heat.
      • With Fried Rice: Pair your lollipops with something like Egg Fried Rice or Chilli Garlic Fried Rice for a complete Indo-Chinese meal.
      • With Noodles: Serve alongside Hakka Noodles for that restaurant-style experience right at home.
      • With Drinks: They pair beautifully with chilled drinks, mocktails, soft drinks, or even iced tea, balancing out the spice with a bit of freshness.

      Customisation Ideas

      • Turn it saucy: Instead of serving them dry, coat the fried lollipops in a quick honey–garlic glaze or toss them in a sweet chilli sauce for a sticky, glossy finish.
      • Make it cheesy: Add a little grated mozzarella or processed cheese to the batter for a melty surprise once you bite in.
      • Try a fusion twist: Swap the usual Indo-Chinese flavour with peri-peri or tandoori masala for something new but equally addictive.
      • Experiment with the coating: Use crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs in the batter for an extra layer of crunch that holds up longer.
      Closeup of chicken lollipop

      And there you have it, crispy, juicy Chicken Lollipops that taste just like your favourite restaurant ones, maybe even better. Once you nail this recipe, it’ll easily become your go-to for parties, weekends, or those days when you’re craving a little indulgence.

      If you give this a try, tag @my_foodstory on Instagram, I’d love to see how they turn out in your kitchen!

      Dipping chicken lollipop in schezwan sauce
      Print

      Chicken Lollipop made at home – so easy!

      Make chicken lollipop at home with this detailed, easy to follow recipe. These lollipops are crunchy, juicy and taste just as good as takeout! Plus when you make them at home, no more soggy lollipops.
      Course Snacks & Appetizers
      Cuisine Chinese, Indian
      Prep Time 10 minutes
      Cook Time 15 minutes
      Total Time 25 minutes
      Servings 6 People
      Calories 169kcal
      Author Richa

      Ingredients

      • 500 grams Chicken lollipop
      • 2 tablespoons Soy sauce
      • 2 teaspoon Red chilli sauce
      • 1 tablespoons Vinegar
      • 1 tablespoons Tomato ketchup
      • 1 tablespoons Red chilli powder
      • 1 tablespoons Garlic paste
      • 1/4 tablespoons Salt
      • 1/4 cup Cornflour
      • 2 tablespoons All purpose flour
      • 2 tablespoons Rice flour
      • 1 Egg
      • 1 tablespoons Ginger paste
      • Oil for frying

      Instructions

      • Whisk together soy sauce, red chilli sauce, vinegar, tomato ketchup, red chilli powder, garlic paste, salt in a bowl and toss the chicken lollipops in it. Marinade for half an hour.
      • In the same bowl, add cornflour, all purpose flour, rice flour, egg and ginger paste and mix well to create a thick batter and coat the lollipops in it.
      • Heat about two inches oil in a wok or kadhai to 350F/ 176C. Add the battered lollipops one by one to the oil in such a way that the meat is at the bottom and the bone is on top (watch the video to see how I do it). Fry these on medium high heat till golden brown – approx 3-4 minutes.
      • Take these out on a tissue paper to blot out any excess oil and serve hot with schezwan sauce.

      Video

      Notes

      1. Cutting chicken lollipop: Chicken lollipops are prepared using the middle segment of the chicken wing. You can watch this video to learn how to do this at home or just buy them pre-prepared from the store.
      2. Marinade: marinade for at least 30 minutes. For the best results, marinate the chicken in the refrigerator overnight. Remove the chicken from the refrigerator 10 minutes prior to frying.  
      3. Oil temperature: Ensure the oil is at 350F/ 176C for frying the chicken. This temperature is ideal for perfectly cooked crispy chicken. 
      4. Make these in advance: You can also make these ahead by frying them once and storing them for a couple of hours. When ready to serve, heat the oil to about 400F/204C and flash fry the lollipops for the second time for just a minute. This will give it a super crispy coating and you’ll have hot chicken lollipops ready to go.

      Nutrition

      Calories: 169kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 71mg | Sodium: 737mg | Potassium: 172mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 493IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 19mg | Iron: 1mg

      This article was researched and written by Harita Odedra.

      The post Chicken Lollipop made at home – so easy! appeared first on My Food Story.

      Chilli Paneer – Street Style

      By: Richa
      20 October 2025 at 07:00

      Craving that spicy, tangy, street-style Chilli Paneer you get from your favorite Indo-Chinese joint? This version brings the same bold flavors home and that signature glossy sauce you can’t stop eating.

      Close up of street style chilli paneer in a wok

      Chilli Paneer has that perfect balance of spice, crunch, and comfort that makes it everyone’s go-to Indo-Chinese dish. The soft paneer, crisp veggies, and glossy, flavourful sauce come together so beautifully that it’s hard to stop at just one bite. 

      Making it at home is so much easier than you might think. You just need a handful of pantry staples and a hot wok to get those street-style flavours right. These go perfectly with dishes like Veg Hakka Noodles or Egg Fried Rice, to make up the perfect meal for a cosy night in with family & friends.

      Chilli Paneer Ingredients

      • Paneer: Use fresh, firm paneer so it holds shape when fried but stays soft inside.
      • Coating Mix: A blend of cornflour, maida (all purpose flour), Kashmiri chilli powder, soy sauce, salt, and a splash of water to give the paneer a crisp outer layer.
      • Aromatics: Ginger, garlic, and green chillies add that signature Indo-Chinese punch and depth of flavour.
      • Veggies: Onion and capsicum (green bell pepper) for added texture 
      • Sauces: Soy sauce, red chilli sauce, ketchup, vinegar, and a touch of cornflour creates the glossy, spicy-sweet base.
      • Oil: For frying and stir-frying.
      • Spring Onions: To garnish and add freshness.

      Frequently Asked Questions

      Can I make this recipe vegan?

      Yes! Simply replace the paneer with firm tofu. Pat it dry before coating and frying so it crisps up nicely and holds the sauce well.

      Can I make this with gravy?

      Absolutely. Just add about half a cup of water or vegetable stock to the sauce when cooking, and let it simmer for a few extra minutes. You’ll get that perfect saucy consistency that’s great with rice or noodles.

      Is Chilli Paneer healthy?

      It can be! While it’s usually fried, you can air fry or pan-fry the paneer instead of deep frying. Use less oil, add more veggies, and you’ll have a lighter version that still tastes amazing.

      Richa’s Top Tips

      • Use quality paneer: Good paneer will take on flavours really well and stay soft instead of becoming rubbery when deep fried. Store bought paneer will do, but if you’ve got that extra 15 minute window, try out my Homemade Paneer Recipe!
      • Fry on high heat: Keeps the paneer crispy on the outside and prevents it from turning chewy.
      • Keep the veggies crunchy: Onions and capsicum should be just cooked, still bright, crisp, and full of bite. That’s where the street-style texture comes from.
      • Don’t skip the wok toss: Once you add the sauce, toss everything quickly on high heat to coat the paneer evenly and get that glossy finish.

      Storage Tips

      • Fridge: Store leftover Chilli Paneer in an airtight container for up to 2 days. The paneer might soften a bit, but it’ll still taste delicious.
      • Freezer: It’s best to freeze just the sauce (without paneer) for up to 10 days. When ready to eat, thaw and toss with freshly fried paneer cubes.
      • Reheating: Warm it up in a pan over low heat. Add a splash of water to loosen the sauce and keep it from drying out. Avoid microwaving too long, as paneer can turn rubbery.

      Serving Ideas

      This Chilli Paneer tastes amazing on its own, but if you’re putting together a full Indo-Chinese spread, here are some delicious pairings to try:

      Customisation Ideas

      • Make it saucier: Want that restaurant-style gravy version? Just add an extra half cup of water to the sauce and let it simmer till slightly thickened.
      • Try it with tofu: Swap the paneer with firm tofu for a vegan-friendly version that’s just as satisfying.
      • Add veggies: Toss in diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or baby corn for more texture and flavor.
      • Use baked or air-fried paneer: Skip deep-frying for a lighter, equally tasty version that still has that crisp bite.
      • Add crunch: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or crushed roasted peanuts on top just before serving for a fun twist.
      Chilli Paneer served on a platter

      And that’s your street-style Chilli Paneer, mouth watering crispiness, spicy, and full of flavor. You can trust it to always hit the right spot, whether you’re cooking for friends or just craving a quick fix for yourself. Every bite has that balance of heat and tang that makes you reach for another piece before you even realize it.

      If you try this recipe, I’d love to see how it turns out! Share your version and tag @my_foodstory on Instagram, I can’t wait to see your kitchen magic.

      Watch Paneer Chilli Recipe Video

      Chilli Paneer served on a platter
      Print

      Street Style Chilli Paneer

      Make street style chilli paneer easily with this recipe! Sweet, spicy, tangy with soft cubes of crispy paneer – this recipe is irresistable!
      Course Snacks & Appetizers
      Cuisine Indian Chinese
      Diet Vegan, Vegetarian
      Prep Time 10 minutes
      Cook Time 15 minutes
      Total Time 25 minutes
      Servings 4 people
      Calories 308kcal
      Author Richa

      Ingredients

      • 200 grams Paneer cut into cubes
      • 2 tablespoons Cornflour
      • 1 tablespoon maida
      • 1 teaspoon Kashmiri Chilli Powder
      • 1 teaspoon soy sauce
      • ½ teaspoon Salt
      • A splash of water
      • Oil for Frying approx half cup

      Sauce Mixture

      • 1 tablespoon Soy Sauce
      • 2 teaspoons Red Chilli Sauce
      • 1 tablespoon Ketchup
      • ¼ teaspoon Kashmiri Chilli Powder or paprika
      • ½ teaspoon Vinegar
      • ¼ teaspoon Salt
      • ½ teaspoon Cornflour
      • ½ cup Water

      For the Stir Fry

      • 2 teaspoons chopped Ginger
      • 2 teaspoons chopped Garlic
      • 2-3 Green Chillies slit lengthwise
      • 2 Onions cubed
      • 1 Capsicum cubed
      • 1 tablespoons chopped Spring Onions

      Instructions

      • Add cornflour, maida, kashmiri chilli powder, soy sauce, salt to a bowl. Add the paneer cubes and toss to coat. Sprinkle a little water just to get the coating to stick to the paneer. Toss and set aside.
      • Heat oil in a wok or pan and add the paneer piece by piece to prevent them from sticking to each other. Fry them on high heat for 2-3 minutes, turning once or twice till they are golden brown. Take them out on a plate and set aside.
      • Whisk together all the ingredients under sauce and set aside.
      • Remove any excess oil from the wok, leaving behind 1.5 tbsp oil. Once the oil is hot, add ginger, garlic and green chillies. Saute for a minute or two and add onions and capsicum.
      • Stir fry for 2-3 minutes on high heat and add the paneer cubes. Toss the paneer with the aromatics for a minute.
      • Give the sauce a whisk and add it to the wok. Toss together on high heat for 2 minutes till the cornflour is cooked and the sauce takes on a thick, glossy finish and coats the paneer pieces. Add a little water if you want a little more sauce. Sprinkle with chopped spring onions and serve hot.

      Video

      Notes

      1. Chilli Paneer Gravy: For saucier chilli paneer, add an extra half cup of water to the sauce
      2. Vegan Chilli Paneer: You can easily substitute the paneer for tofu to make chilli tofu
      3. You can substitute the store bought chilli sauce with homemade chilli garlic paste. I highly recommend making it yourself. I used Kashmiri Red Chillies for this recipe which have more colour than heat
      4. If using homemade chilli paste, once you add it to to the wok, be sure to fry it until almost all of the raw aroma goes. This will help you avoid the raw chilli taste and smell in the dish. 

      Nutrition

      Calories: 308kcal | Carbohydrates: 17g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 23g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 33mg | Sodium: 850mg | Potassium: 191mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 1152IU | Vitamin C: 46mg | Calcium: 264mg | Iron: 1mg

      This article is researched and written by Harita Odedra.

      The post Chilli Paneer – Street Style appeared first on My Food Story.

      25 Vegetarian Indian Breads for Diwali

      By: Richa
      5 October 2025 at 08:08

      These 25 Indian Bread Recipes are the perfect accompaniment to any Diwali table. Parathas, pooris, kulchas and naans – there’s something here for everyone.

      Picture Collage showing 4 diwali bread recipe photographs with text overlay

      Diwali is all about lights, laughter, and of course, food that brings everyone together around the table. And while sweets often steal the spotlight, the Diwali party table feels incomplete without Indian breads. In fact, their soft, fluffy, and endlessly versatile nature makes them the perfect partner for all those rich curries, dals, and party specials you’ll be cooking up for family and friends.

      From buttery naan and flaky parathas to festive puris, there’s truly a bread for every mood and menu. Even better, many of these are quick to make, and therefore can easily transform even a simple dish into something celebration-worthy. For example, picture a basket of hot, puffed-up puris alongside chole, or a stack of garlic naan soaking up creamy paneer butter masala — comforting, festive, and absolutely irresistible.

      With this collection of Indian breads, you’ll find plenty of options to mix and match with your Diwali spread. So, whether you’re hosting a big dinner or planning a cozy get-together, these breads will effortlessly add warmth, flavor, and a touch of tradition to your festive table. In the end, all that’s left to do is roll up your sleeves, fire up the tawa, and make your Diwali feast even more delicious! ✨

      North Indian Favorites

      Lachha Parathas served on a plate with curry and onions
      5 from 1 vote

      Lachha Paratha

      Flaky, layered paratha that's crispy through and through. It's made with just four ingredients and looks gorgeous as you can see multiple layers in each paratha.
      View Recipe
      image of butter garlic naan stacked one on top of the other on a wooden board

      No-Yeast Butter Garlic Naan

      Learn how to make delicious crispy butter garlic naan at home without using yeast or a tandoor!
      View Recipe
      Closeup of kulcha brushed with butter on a plate
      5 from 6 votes

      Chilli Garlic Cheese Stuffed Kulcha

      Chilli Garlic Cheese Stuffed Kulchas have a garlicky, melted cheesy center thats encased in the softest bread. These Amritsari Kulchas work best with chana masala or matra
      View Recipe
      Pieces of the no yeast Naan that is prepared in 30 minutes.
      4.92 from 50 votes

      Instant No Yeast Naan in 30 minutes

      Instant No Yeast Naan bread recipe which doesn’t require any yeast or eggs and takes only 30 minutes from start to finish and can be made on the gas stove in a skillet. No oven or tandoor.
      View Recipe
      Pooris served on a plate with aloo bhaji, onions
      5 from 3 votes

      How to make the Perfect Pooris

      Ever wonder how restaurants get those picture-perfect puffed pooris every single time? The secret? A few tiny tricks you’ll wish you knew sooner.
      View Recipe
      A plate of stacked bhature with a side of fried chilli, fried aloo and chole
      5 from 1 vote

      Bhatura

      Bhaturas are deep-fried Indian flatbreads with a light and airy texture that makes them the perfect accompaniment to soak up any curry.
      View Recipe
      image of butter garlic naan stacked one on top of the other on a wooden board

      No-Yeast Butter Garlic Naan

      Learn how to make delicious crispy butter garlic naan at home without using yeast or a tandoor!
      View Recipe
      garlic thecha naan on a wooden board
      5 from 1 vote

      Thecha Naan | Stuffed Chilli Cheese Naan

      Cheesy garlicky and spicy, this Thecha Naan is made with a roasted garlic and chilli stuffing making it super delicious!
      View Recipe

      Goes With Everything

      Soft puffy rotis stacked on a plate
      4.92 from 23 votes

      Soft Rotis – How to make them at home

      Making soft rotis at home only needs two ingredients – atta (wholemeal wheat flour) and water. From kneading the dough to rolling them out and cooking them, the entire process takes approx 10-15 minutes with some resting time in between. Once you master this skill, homemade bread is never far away!
      View Recipe
      Closeup of dal parathas piled on top of the other with one rolled up

      Chutney Dal Paratha

      The perfect way to turn leftover parathas into something yummy and nutritious, these chutney dal parathas make for the perfect breakfast for the whole family, kids included!
      View Recipe
      Warm Kasuri Methi parathas that make for a healthy and a homely meal.
      5 from 2 votes

      Kasuri Methi Parathas | Fenugreek Flatbread

      Recipe for easy, flavorful kasuri methi parathas or fenugreek flatbread. No yeast or eggs required and they only take minutes!
      View Recipe
      Single ladi pav stacked on top of other baked ladi pavs
      5 from 6 votes

      Ladi Pav

      Ladi Pav is a Mumbai style dinner roll thats really soft, buttery and has a beautiful crumb. Its served traditionally with pav bhaji, misal pav or for vada pav
      View Recipe
      air fryer rolls brushed with butter and sesame seeds
      5 from 3 votes

      Air Fryer Dinner Rolls

      Pillow-y soft, buttery goodness: that’s how I’d describe these Air Fryer Dinner Rolls. Making them doesn’t get easier than this!
      View Recipe

      South Indian Spread

      Serving mysore masala dosa with two chutneys on a banana leaf

      Mysore Masala Dosa

      Mysore Masala is a popular South Indian breakfast where a spicy red chutney is spread on the dosa while it's cooking to give it a spicy twist and it is then stuffed with a yummy potato filling. Legend says it originated in Mysore but now its made all across the country!
      View Recipe
      soft and fluffy idlis served with chutney

      Idli | How to Make Idlis

      The secret to really soft, fluffy, melt-in-the-mouth idlis? It starts with the right batter and I’m showing you exactly how in this recipe.
      View Recipe
      freshly made dosas served on a banana leaf platter with accompaniments
      5 from 1 vote

      Dosa Recipe | How To Make Dosa

      This dosa recipe with my easy homemade batter will help you nail the perfect dosa right at home – so you can make dosas just how you like, whenever you want!
      View Recipe
      tender coconut appam in a wicker basket
      5 from 1 vote

      Tender Coconut Appam | Palappam

      Soft, fluffy and lacy is the best way to describe these Tender Coconut Appams. With a little prep and a handful of pantry staples, making appam at home is incredibly easy. Serve it with some Veg Stew for a comforting and wholesome meal!
      View Recipe
      Neer Dosas served on a plate with chutney and curry
      5 from 3 votes

      Neer Dosa

      Neer Dosa is a unique dosa recipe from Karnataka where the batter is only made from 3 ingredients – rice, coconut and water and doesn't need any fermentation. These are like soft, thin, lacy french crepes but gluten-free and can also be made vegan. They are the perfect vehicle to soak up spicy curries.
      View Recipe
      tender coconut appam in a wicker basket
      5 from 1 vote

      Tender Coconut Appam | Palappam

      Soft, fluffy and lacy is the best way to describe these Tender Coconut Appams. With a little prep and a handful of pantry staples, making appam at home is incredibly easy. Serve it with some Veg Stew for a comforting and wholesome meal!
      View Recipe

      Healthy Indian Breads

      Instant oats dosas served on a banana leaf lined plates with coconut chutney
      5 from 2 votes

      Oats Dosa – Healthy Breakfast Recipe

      Instant Oats Dosa is a fast, healthy breakfast recipe that's spiced with ginger, cumin, curry leaves, onions and coriander. These have a lacy texture, are golden brown and really crispy!
      View Recipe
      Millet mysore masala dosa served on a steel plate with chutney and filter coffee
      5 from 4 votes

      Millet Mysore Masala Dosa

      If you want to include more millets in your diet, this is a perfect recipe. This mysore masala dosa is made with a fermented millet batter that makes beautiful, crispy dosas.
      View Recipe
      Ragi dosa served in a steel plate on a banana leaf with coconut chutney and podi

      Instant Ragi Dosa

      Ragi dosa is an instant dosa recipe that’s also a great way to include millets in your diet. It doesn’t need any grinding or fermenting. Rich in iron and fibre, these dosas are healthy, hearty & nutritious. The trick is to make sure the batter is the consistency of milk.
      View Recipe
      High Protein Dosa served on a banana leaf with chutney and curry on the side
      5 from 2 votes

      High Protein Dosa

      An instant no fermentation recipe, this high-protein dosa is really healthy and nutritious. This is like a chilla and makes for a delicious breakfast
      View Recipe

      Sweet Breads

      Puran polis served on a silver platter drizzled with saffron and ghee

      Puran Poli

      Puran Poli is a sweet, stuffed flatbread thats popular all over India. The key is to make a very soft dough so that the final parathas are really soft and pliable.
      View Recipe

      Diwali is best celebrated with good food and warm memories, and Indian breads bring it all together. From puris to naans and parathas, they add comfort, tradition, and flavor to every festive meal. Serve them with your favorite curries and enjoy a truly delicious Diwali feast! ✨

      The post 25 Vegetarian Indian Breads for Diwali appeared first on My Food Story.

      75+ Veg Diwali Snack Recipe Ideas

      By: Richa
      2 October 2025 at 10:08

      A collection of 75+ Diwali Snack Recipes that are sure to light up your Diwali Party! These recipes are super easy and can be made ahead. Which means you can spend more time with your guests than in the kitchen.

      Picture Collage of 4 diwali recipe photographs with text overlay

      It’s Diwali time! Yaaaaaaaaaaaaaay!

      Diwali is hands down my most favorite festival of the year! I just love the way homes and hearts light up around Diwali and my kitchen is already lit up with all the festive awesomeness that I can’t wait to share with friends and family.

      Amongst the most beautiful festivals celebrated across India, Diwali is all about the victory of light over darkness, good over evil and food over mood! While laddoos, halwas and kheers are staples on the Diwali sweets table – samosas, aloo tikkis, kebabs are the kind of diwali snack recipes that get my party started.

      So here are over 75+ finger-lickin’ good, traditional as well as fusion diwali snack recipes to get your diwali appetizer menu lit up! Spread the light, love and cheer you guys! Happpppppppppy Diwali! 🪔🎉

      Beginner Recipes

      Beetroot tikki served on a flaky paratha with onion rings and garnished with green chutney

      Beetroot Tikki | Beetroot Cutlet

      Healthy, easy to make, and incredibly delicious, these vibrant beetroot tikkis are crispy on the outside, soft inside, and full of flavour in every bite!
      View Recipe
      edible papad bowls filled with peanut chaat and served on a white platter

      Papad Bowl (Katori) Chaat

      Edible papad bowls (katori) filled with peanut chaat – this one's crunchy, tangy, and zesty – and an absolute delight!
      View Recipe
      close up of cucumber sushi served with soy sauce

      Cucumber Sushi

      A crunchy and refreshing vegetarian appetizer, this cucumber sushi has got everything – crunch, umami, and texture. Plus, it's really healthy and look good too!
      View Recipe

      Broccoli Tikki | Broccoli Cutlet

      Loaded with veggies, paneer, and cheese, this broccoli tikki makes for a quick, wholesome, and filling snack for kids and adults alike!
      View Recipe
      air fryer paneer popcorn served on a white plate with accompaniments

      Air Fryer Paneer Popcorn

      Crispy on the outside, soft and juicy on the inside, this air fryer paneer popcorn recipe makes for on delicious and healthy appetizer or a fun drinking snack!
      View Recipe
      cucumber rolls served on a white platter

      Cucumber rolls

      Crunchy, refreshing, creamy, and insanely delicious, these cucumber rolls are unlike anything you've ever had before. Makes for a gorgeous Diwali appetizer ✨
      View Recipe
      crispy cornflakes chivda served in a bowl

      Cornflakes Chivda | Trail Mix

      Crispy textures and savory flavors come together to make this Cornflakes Chivda, which is the perfect snack for tea-time or in between meals!
      View Recipe
      freshly baked air fryer stuffed mushroom lined up in the air fryer

      Air Fryer Stuffed Mushrooms

      Crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor—these Air Fryer Stuffed Mushrooms are the perfect bite-sized appetizer!
      View Recipe
      close up of sprouts dhokla garnished with tempering and served on a leaf platter

      Sprouts Dhokla

      Quick and easy, yet insanely healthy and delicious, this moong sprouts dhokla makes for the perfect party appetiser or 5 pm snack!
      View Recipe
      close up of hara bhara kebabs to show their texture

      Hara Bhara Kebabs

      These Hara Bhara Kebabs made with greens and potatoes are the OG 90s snack best served with green chutnye or ketchup!
      View Recipe
      watermelon pizza slices topped with fresh fruits on a white plate

      Watermelon Pizza

      Quick and easy, this watermelon pizza is the perfect summer staple! Made with juicy watermelon slices and topped with creamy cheese sauce and some fresh fruits, this dish is the perfect 5 pm snack or party appetiser!
      View Recipe

      Broccoli Tikki | Broccoli Cutlet

      Loaded with veggies, paneer, and cheese, this broccoli tikki makes for a quick, wholesome, and filling snack for kids and adults alike!
      View Recipe
      Beetroot Paniyaram served on a plate with coconut chutney and tomato chutney
      5 from 1 vote

      Beetroot Appe

      A really fun breakfast or snack, the bright pink colour of these beetroot appe makes sure kids are excited to try them! It's the best way to use up leftover idli dosa batter.
      View Recipe
      Roasted Makhana and Nuts served in a white bowl

      Air Fryer Roasted Makhana and Nuts

      Makhana is the new healthy snack! It's wonderfully crispy, irresistibly crunchy, and oh-so-delicious, plus, they're a breeze to whip up. With the air fryer at work, there's no need for excess oil, and in just 20 minutes, you've got a wholesome snack ready to enjoy!
      View Recipe
      Corn Bhel served in a cowl with a spoon on the side

      Corn Bhel

      Chinese style Corn Bhel is a sweet, spicy, crunchy recipe which really celebrates corn. Takes only 10 minutes to put together and makes the best 5PM snack on a rainy day.
      View Recipe
      Bread Chaat served on a white plate with a spoon on the side
      5 from 1 vote

      Bread Chaat

      A super creative way to make chaat by using bread as base and topping it with all the chaat essentials – boiled potatoes, onions, coriander chutney, imli chutney and sev. This is like a cross between sev puri and dahi vada and its so so good.
      View Recipe
      Paneer tikka skewers garnished with mint, lemon and served on a white plate.
      4.93 from 42 votes

      Tandoori Paneer Tikka in the Oven

      This is the best Tandoori Paneer Tikka in the oven you’ll ever make at home! Same restaurant style taste, but roasted in a home oven.
      View Recipe
      Beet and Goat Cheese Quinoa Patties stacked on each other.
      5 from 1 vote

      Beet and Goat Cheese Quinoa Patties

      A healthy snacking option, these Beet and Goat Cheese Quinoa Patties are a great way to use up veggies and make for a delicious addition to breakfast or a salad.
      View Recipe
      The tikkis served with chutney, ketchup and Tetley green tea.
      5 from 2 votes

      Healthy Aloo Paneer Tikki

      Healthy north indian style aloo paneer tikkis are the perfect and easy appetizer for chilly evenings or when you have guests over!
      View Recipe
      Paneer pakora photographed two ways
      5 from 1 vote

      Paneer Pakora Recipe 2 Ways

      Here's a recipe for super crispy paneer pakoras, done two ways. These pakoras have soft paneer on the inside and a really crispy batter outside!
      View Recipe
      Crispy masala vadas served on a banana leaf lined white plate with coconut chutney on the side
      4.50 from 4 votes

      Crispy Masala Vada

      This Masala Vada recipe will give you crispy vadai inside out. The trick is to grind everything coarsely and fry these on a medium flame to allow them to cook properly and crisp up.
      View Recipe
      A collage to show the two stuffings in the bhajiyas side by side
      5 from 4 votes

      Mirchi Bajji – 2 Ways

      Mirchi Bajji is a fantastic monsoon snack and another addition to the pakora series. I'm showing you how to make them two ways – with a potato (aloo) stuffing and an onion coriander stuffing.
      View Recipe
      Paneer kathi roll cut into pieces and stacked on top of the other
      5 from 3 votes

      Chinese Style Paneer Kathi Roll

      Delicious street style Indian snack – these Kathi rolls are filled with a chilli paneer filling stuffed in a flaky, crispy paratha
      View Recipe
      Crunchy vegetable pakoras served on a wooden board with green coriander chutney
      5 from 2 votes

      Vegetable Pakoras

      Watch recipe video above. It is the season for vegetable pakoras, spicy green chutney and masala chai. And I’m bringing you a recipe that has been tailored specifically for maximum crunch factor. These have a secret ingredient that makes every bite super crunchy and extra crispy.
      View Recipe
      Masala chana fresh out of the oven!
      4.25 from 4 votes

      Crunchy Roasted Indian Masala Chickpeas

      An easy foolproof recipe for Crunchy Roasted Chickpeas flavored with Indian Masala. This recipe is sure shot way to get super crunchy chickpeas or chanas.
      View Recipe
      Chilli Lime Sweet Potato Wedges baked and served on a tray with a dipping sauce.

      Chilli Lime Sweet Potato Wedges

      Baked chilli lime sweet potato wedges are the perfect healthy snack. These are oven roasted with crispy edges and soft, creamy centre. Turn these into sweet potato nachos or dip these wedges into a dipping sauce – either way you’ll love these! Gluten free, vegan and super easy to make!
      View Recipe
      Easy Aloo Chaat - delhi style served on a plate with sev on the side
      4.58 from 7 votes

      Easy Aloo Chaat – Delhi Style

      This addictive Indian street food snack is a must make because the flavors of aloo chaat are unbeatable! 
      View Recipe
      Honey chilli potatoes served on a white bowl with spring onions and sesame seeds on the side
      4.88 from 24 votes

      Crispy Honey Chilli Potatoes

      Watch Recipe Video Above. Crispy Honey Chilli Potatoes are a super addictive snack – fried potato fingers are tossed in a sesame honey chilli sauce that's sweet and spicy and will give you sticky fingers that you'll be licking to get every last bit of sauce!
      View Recipe
      The loaded nachos being served in a tray.

      No Brainer Loaded Nachos Platter

      This no brainer loaded nachos platter is the perfect party food for a crowd. Cheesy, crunchy, loaded with toppings, super easy and great as a game day snack.
      View Recipe
      Easy to make soya hara bhara kebabs are a healthy twist to restaurant style hara bhara kebabs. These are perfect if you are looking for vegetarian kebabs!

      Soya Hara Bhara Kebabs

      Easy to make soya hara bhara kebabs are a healthy twist to restaurant style hara bhara kebabs. These are perfect if you are looking for vegetarian kebabs to serve your guests!
      View Recipe
      raw banana tikki or Kachhe kele ke kebab garnished and served on a brown board
      4.50 from 2 votes

      Kachhe Kele (Green Plantain) ke Kebab – Vegan and Gluten Free

      Kachhe kele ke kebab are made with raw bananas or green plantains and are a healthy and nutritious snack, particular during Navratri. Check out this easy recipe which is also vegan and gluten free!
      View Recipe
      Closeup of onion pakodas served on a board
      5 from 6 votes

      Onion Pakora

      With my easy dry batter trick, you'll always have crispest onion pakodas. These make for a fantastic evening or pre-dinner snack and work really with my coriander chutney or just plain ketchup!
      View Recipe
      Crispy baby corn fry served in a white plate with ketchup on the side
      5 from 3 votes

      Crispy Baby corn Fry

      Crispy, crunchy baby corn fry is ridiculously easy and so addictive. It's the perfect 5 PM, rainy day snack and very kid-friendly.
      View Recipe
      Crispy falafels served in a blue bowl with tahini dip and salad on the side
      4.80 from 5 votes

      Crispy Falafel

      The key to making really crispy falafel is using dried chickpeas that have been soaked for at least 12 hours. Stay away from canned chickpeas because they are cooked and won't hold shape. Combined with herbs, garlic, onion, chillies and spices, falafels are a flavour bomb!
      View Recipe
      Picture of baked sweet potato fries served on a grey plate with ketchup and lime wedges on the side
      3.75 from 4 votes

      Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries

      Learn how to make super crispy air fryer sweet potato fries. All you need is 4 ingredients and 20 minutes! The air fryer in my opinion produces much better results than the oven which takes longer to cook
      View Recipe
      Roasted air fryer brussel sprouts served on a grey plate with ketchup on the side

      Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts – Sweet and Spicy

      Brussel Sprouts roasted in the Air Fryer to crispy perfection with sweet, spicy, garlicky flavours that are addictive!
      View Recipe
      Air fried kurkuri bhindi in a white bowl

      Air Fryer Kurkuri Bhindi

      This air fryer kurkuri bhindi is perfect for easy cooking and even easier eating! It’s a game changer, made with pantry staples and hardly any oil. And it tastes even better than when you deep fry it in oil. Serve it as an appetiser, snack or even for lunch along with some dal and roti.
      View Recipe
      A hand picking up a slice of hung curd sandwich
      5 from 1 vote

      Dahi Sandwich

      These sandwiches make a great after school snack or anytime snack because they are quick and healthy. You get a super creamy filling but without using any mayonnaise – thats the magic of hung curd or greek yogurt! Use crunchy vegetables that can stand up to the yogurt without losing too much water too fast for best results.
      View Recipe
      Air Fryer papdi served on a plate with chai on the side

      Air Fryer Papdi

      Papdis are an addictive snack and are generally deep-fried. But this air-fried version gives the same extra-crispy result without the extra oil. These are sooo good you'll probably finish them in one sitting!
      View Recipe
      a shot of hariyali paneer tikka on skewers placed on a white plate
      5 from 1 vote

      Hariyali Paneer Tikka

      This Hariyali Paneer Tikka brings a refreshing twist to your typical paneer dishes. It's made with straightforward ingredients but delivers bold flavours that'll surprise you!
      View Recipe

      Intermediate Recipes

      Serving mysore masala dosa with two chutneys on a banana leaf

      Mysore Masala Dosa

      Mysore Masala is a popular South Indian breakfast where a spicy red chutney is spread on the dosa while it's cooking to give it a spicy twist and it is then stuffed with a yummy potato filling. Legend says it originated in Mysore but now its made all across the country!
      View Recipe
      freshly made idli fry served in a white bowl with a fork

      Chilli Idli Fry

      Spicy and crunchy, this chilli idli fry recipe is the perfect way to jazz up leftover idlis and turn it into something addictive, quickly!
      View Recipe
      white dhokla served on a banana leaf platter with chutney
      5 from 1 vote

      White Dhokla | Khatta Dhokla | Idada

      Spongy, soft, and slightly tangy, white dhokla is a delicious and insanely healthy evening snack that comes together in just 20 minutes with Idli Dosa Batter
      View Recipe
      a close up image of chinese bhel to show the crunchy texture
      5 from 1 vote

      Chinese Bhel

      Saucy, crispy, spicy, tangy… Chinese Bhel is a flavor and texture bomb. It's the easiest thing to whip up both for random chat cravings and unexpected guests.
      View Recipe

      Mangalore Buns

      Soft, fluffy, crispy Mangalore Buns make for the perfect 5 pm snack with some coconut chutney and chai 🫶
      View Recipe
      crispy sooji fries served with tomato ketchup

      Sooji Fries

      Another recipe on my tiffin-series, these sooji fries are a healthier, more wholesome replacement to regular French fries. The kids love these too!
      View Recipe
      a close up image of goli bajji to show it's crunchy texture

      Goli Bajji | Goli Baje

      Crispy on the outside, soft and light on the inside, this Mangalorean Goli Bajji make for the perfect 5pm snack with some chai and coconut chutney!
      View Recipe
      closeup shot of corn spinach puff with the filling oozing out

      Corn Spinach Puffs

      Savoury delicious – these Spinach Corn Puffs are a super easy snack that's also perfect for kids lunch boxes or evening hunger pangs. Store bought puff pastry and a cheesy spinach corn filling makes this a breeze to make and a hit with everybody!
      View Recipe
      Picture of a hand holding bombay sandwich toast on a paper plate

      Toasted Bombay Sandwich

      Right off the streets of bombay, a spicy, masaledar aloo masala is sandwiched between two slices of bread along with sliced veggies and green chutney and grilled to perfection!
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      Closeup of a bite of cheese balls to show the cheesy center
      5 from 7 votes

      Homemade Cheese Balls

      Nobody can resist these so make extras! The outside is crunchy and inside is creamy, gooey and has melty cheesy center. My fail proof method to double crumb these will ensure you have perfect cheese balls every time
      View Recipe
      Gobi manchurian served in a blue bowl
      5 from 9 votes

      Gobi Manchurian

      Easy Gobi Manchurian is a popular Indo Chinese recipe where super crispy cauliflower florets are tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce in a way that they remain crispy till the end!
      View Recipe
      Closeup of sabudana vada bombs stuffed with paneer stacked on top of one another
      5 from 3 votes

      Sabudana Vada Bombs stuffed with Paneer

      Taking Sabudana Vadas to the next level with these amazing Sabudana Bombs that have a delicious, creamy paneer filling inside. These are hearty, filling cutlets that are perfect for breakfast or as a snack, and can be made for Navratri as a fasting dish.
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      Veg Cutlets served in a blue bowl with green chutney and ketchup
      5 from 2 votes

      Railway Style Veg Cutlets

      Veg Cutlets or Veg croquettes are a crispy tea time snack that everyone will love. Made with a potato beetroot filling and a vermicelli coating, these are crispy outside and really flavourful inside.
      View Recipe
      Plate of french fries served with a mayonnaise dip and ketchup

      Best Homemade French Fries

      Always wanted to make crispy, fast food joint style french fries at home? These are better than the french fries you get outside because you know exactly what goes into them. It takes a few steps but the result is gorgeous golden, crispy fries that can be served immediately or frozen for later so you always have a stash in your freezer.
      View Recipe
      Babycorn chilli served on a white plate with a fork
      5 from 2 votes

      Crispy Chilli Babycorn

      If you love babycorn, this recipe is just for you. Crispy, deep fried baby corn is tossed with aromatics, onions, capsicum and Chinese sauces to create a fantastic Indo Chinese appetizer.
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      Super cheesy jalapeno three cheese samosa are sure to become a favourite because who can resist gooey stringy cheese stuffed in crispy samosa wrappers! These vegetarian samosas have a filling of mozzarella, cream cheese, smoked cheddar and jalapenos and folding them is really easy too. 
      4 from 1 vote

      Jalapeno Three Cheese Samosa

      Super cheese jalapeno three cheese samosas are sure to become a favourite because who can resist gooey stringy cheese stuffed in crispy samosa wrappers! These vegetarian samosas have a filling of mozzarella, cream cheese, smoked cheddar and jalapenos and folding them is really easy too.
      View Recipe
      Chilli Paneer served on a platter
      5 from 9 votes

      Street Style Chilli Paneer

      Make street style chilli paneer easily with this recipe! Sweet, spicy, tangy with soft cubes of crispy paneer – this recipe is irresistable!
      View Recipe
      Dominos garlic breadsticks served with cheesy dipping sauce
      5 from 13 votes

      Domino’s Style Garlic Breadsticks – Two Ways

      Dare I say that these Dominos style garlic breadsticks are even better than the original! We are showing you how to make them two ways – plain and stuffed with cheese. They have a beautiful crunchy crust with soft, garlicky bread on the inside.
      View Recipe
      Puris served in a bowl with the pani and filling in the background
      4.91 from 11 votes

      Easy Pani Puri

      Called golgappa, or puchkas, I’ve included detailed steps on how to make the puris, the filling, and jaljeera to get that street style Pani Puri flavour!
      View Recipe
      Crispy veg nuggets served on a platter with sichuan sauce
      4.50 from 2 votes

      Crispy Veg Nuggets with Sichuan Sauce

      These veg nuggets are a great alternative to chicken nuggets. They happen to be vegan, and are loaded with veggies. Kids and adults both love them!
      View Recipe
      Crunchy vegetable pakoras served on a wooden board with green coriander chutney
      5 from 2 votes

      Vegetable Pakoras

      Watch recipe video above. It is the season for vegetable pakoras, spicy green chutney and masala chai. And I’m bringing you a recipe that has been tailored specifically for maximum crunch factor. These have a secret ingredient that makes every bite super crunchy and extra crispy.
      View Recipe
      Honey chilli potatoes served on a white bowl with spring onions and sesame seeds on the side
      4.88 from 24 votes

      Crispy Honey Chilli Potatoes

      Watch Recipe Video Above. Crispy Honey Chilli Potatoes are a super addictive snack – fried potato fingers are tossed in a sesame honey chilli sauce that's sweet and spicy and will give you sticky fingers that you'll be licking to get every last bit of sauce!
      View Recipe
      Chilli cheese garlic toasts straight from the pan on a platter

      Chilli Cheese Garlic Bread

      The ultimate combination of spicy, cheesy, and garlicky flavours with this irresistible chilli cheese garlic bread
      View Recipe
      Mexican corn fritters served on a blue plate with a creamy dip on the side
      4.67 from 3 votes

      Mexican Corn Fritters

      Mexican Corn Fritters can be made with either fresh or frozen corn. The batter is made with chickpea flour and cornflour which makes these gluten free too. Flavored with jalapenos, paprika and lots of fresh cilantro, these are crispy outside and have a balance of sweet and spicy flavors that are so yum! Watch the recipe video above for step by step directions.
      View Recipe

      Advanced Recipes

      air fryer samosas served with ketchup

      Air Fryer Aloo Samosa

      Just as flaky and crisp as the real deal – without all the excess oil – these air fryer aloo samosas is here to become your newest favorite, guilt-free tea time snack!
      View Recipe
      Spring Rolls served on a platter with sweet chilli sauce

      Veg Spring Roll

      Veg Spring Roll is an addictive Chinese appetizer that's made with a noodle filling encased in a wheat-based pastry wrapper. Wrapped like mini burritos and deep-fried till crisp, these are the first things to go at a party. I recently discovered that these get just as crispy in the air fryer so I've added instructions below for air fryer spring rolls as well.
      View Recipe
      Closeup of a beautiful, perfect golden brown samosa
      4.86 from 47 votes

      The Best Indian Punjabi Samosa

      This is definitely the best Indian punjabi samosa you’ll every make at home! I’m arming you with step by step directions and a recipe video for you to follow. So you can learn how to make the samosa dough, the aloo stuffing and how to easily wrap them.
      View Recipe
      Many pieces of thread paneer served on a tissue paper lined plate
      5 from 2 votes

      Crispy Thread Paneer

      Super crunchy appetizer with marinated pieces of paneer wrapped in cooked noodles and deep fried. Nobody can resist these!
      View Recipe
      Chinese Potli Samosa Wontons served with a spicy schezwan sauce for dipping.

      Chinese Potli Samosa Wontons

      Love samosas? These Indo-Chinese vegetarian potli samosa wontons are going to blow you over! Also includes recipe for homemade samosa wrappers!
      View Recipe
      Closeup of momos on a grey plate
      5 from 8 votes

      Momos Recipe – Veg and Chicken

      Make momos at home with this easy recipe for momo wrappers, veg and chicken filling. The result are momos that have a thin wrapper and are stuffed to the brim with the most amazing fillings
      View Recipe
      Soya Manchurian served on a white plate.

      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.
      View Recipe
      Vegetarian Gyoza Potstickers with Carrot and Paneer served with a dipping sauce on a white plate.
      5 from 15 votes

      Vegetarian Gyoza Potstickers with Carrot and Paneer

      These vegetarian gyoza potstickers are stuffed with a delicious mixture of carrot, shiitake mushrooms and paneer and are insanely ease to make! Don’t be intimidated because I have step by step instructions for you to make them at home.
      View Recipe

      Dips and Sauces to go with Snacks

      Thai sweet chili sauce served in a bowl with a spoon in it
      4.93 from 13 votes

      Thai Sweet Chili Sauce

      Make Thai sweet chili sauce at home easily with this recipe. Just 9 ingredients and 20 minutes. Stores well for up to a month. Called nam chim kai, use this dipping sauce for appetizers, snacks, finger food or stir fries and barbecues.
      View Recipe
      Schezwan sauce in a jar.
      4.78 from 9 votes

      How To Make Schezwan Sauce (Step by Step Video)

      Learn how to make this simple indo-chinese schezwan sauce/condiment which goes really well with chicken lollipops, schezwan rice, noodles and manchurian. Makes 1.5 cups. Each serving size is estimated at 1 tbsp.
      View Recipe
      Nacho dipped in spicy nacho cheese sauce
      5 from 2 votes

      Spicy Nacho Cheese Sauce in just 5 Minutes!

      Spicy Nacho Cheese Sauce is really easy to make at home. It just needs seven ingredients and ten minutes and in the end you’ll have a silky, smooth, cheesy sauce that you can jar and store for a couple of days or eat immediately.
      View Recipe
      Egyptian Beetroot Dip in a white speckled bowl.
      4.70 from 20 votes

      Egyptian Beetroot Dip

      This quick and easy Egyptian beetroot dip is healthy and looks beautiful on the table, which makes it perfect to serve at holidays, parties and family get togethers. Nobody will be able to resist that vibrant color. Serve it with crackers for a crunchy, creamy combination.
      View Recipe
      A close up of A picture of Garlicky yogurt party dip served in a blue bowl with chips
      5 from 1 vote

      Garlicky Yogurt Party Dip

      A light, refreshing and super addictive garlicky yogurt party dip to go with chips, wings, cutlets, fries and other finger food. Low calorie and healthy too.
      View Recipe
      A spoonful of tamarind chutney being taken out of a bowl
      5 from 1 vote

      Tamarind Chutney

      Tamarind Chutney is an Indian condiment or sauce that's sweet, sour, spicy and savoury. Its generally used as an accompaniment to various Indian chaats but also works really well as a dipping sauce or a marinade. A jar will last you over a year in the fridge!
      View Recipe
      Green Cilanatro Chutney served with pakoras or fritters on the side.
      5 from 8 votes

      Green Coriander Chutney

      This green coriander chutney recipe is the best chutney you will ever try! Its fresh, tart, sweet and spicy and goes so well with pakoras, kebabs, samosas, cutlets, fritters or even as a spread on sandwiches. This is a recipe that’s pretty different from most other recipes out there, and you’ll believe me when you taste it!
      View Recipe
      A bowl of ketchup placed on a plate with french fries
      5 from 5 votes

      Homemade Tomato Ketchup

      This easy homemade tomato ketchup recipe has 7 real ingredients, isn't sugar-heavy and very kid friendly. As compared to store-bought ketchup which has a lot of sugar, stabilizers and preservatives, this recipe is healthy.
      View Recipe
      Crazy good homemade guacamole served in a white bowl with chips on the side.

      Crazy Good Homemade Guacamole

      Crazy good homemade guacamole is easier than you think. It’s a simple five minute recipe that starts with choosing ripe avocados which is key. I have tips and tricks listed above to help you choose the right avocados for your guacamole, ways to store guacamole for later and some fun ideas to use any extra guac.
      View Recipe

      The post 75+ Veg Diwali Snack Recipe Ideas appeared first on My Food Story.

      120+ Amazing Veg Diwali Recipes

      30 September 2025 at 04:59

      These vegetarian Diwali recipes are quick and easy, and will make the festive season even more fun! A collection of appetizers, mains and desserts for you to choose from.

      Picture Collage of 4 diwali recipe photographs with text overlay

      Diwali is one of my favorite times of the year — the lights, the laughter, and of course, the food! If you’re looking for Diwali recipes that are equal parts easy, flavorful, and totally festive, you’ve come to the right place. I’ve rounded up some of my go-to Indian recipes that always shine on the party table — think crispy paneer tikka, fusion pani puri , rich and creamy dal makhani, or decadent jalebis, kheer, and loads of Indian mithai. These are the kind of dishes that look impressive, taste amazing, and don’t keep you chained to the kitchen.

      The best part? So many of these recipes can be cooked or prepped ahead of time, which means less stress for you and more time to actually enjoy the celebrations. From crowd-pleasing snacks and hearty curries to festive sweets, you’ll find plenty of inspiration here to put together a spread that’s delicious and manageable. So light up those diyas, gather your loved ones, and let’s make this Diwali all about good food, good vibes, and stress-free hosting! ✨

      Appetizers and Snacks for Diwali

      air fryer paneer popcorn served on a white plate with accompaniments

      Air Fryer Paneer Popcorn

      Crispy on the outside, soft and juicy on the inside, this air fryer paneer popcorn recipe makes for on delicious and healthy appetizer or a fun drinking snack!
      View Recipe
      edible papad bowls filled with peanut chaat and served on a white platter

      Papad Bowl (Katori) Chaat

      Edible papad bowls (katori) filled with peanut chaat – this one's crunchy, tangy, and zesty – and an absolute delight!
      View Recipe
      anar pani puri garnished with coriander leaves and boondi and served in a white bowl

      Anar Pani Puri

      A sweet, tangy, spicy, and insanely delicious concoction, this anar pani puri water takes your favorite chaat a notch higher!
      View Recipe

      Guava Pani Puri

      Tangy, spicy, sour, this guava pani puri has the most delicious fruity kick and is perfect for the festive season. Takes your regular pani puri several notches higher
      View Recipe

      Moong Sprouts Apple Salad

      Crunchy, zesty, tangy, this moong sprouts and apple salad makes for a healthy Diwali starter or snack. Served in 3 different ways for a fun twist each time!
      View Recipe
      Beetroot tikki served on a flaky paratha with onion rings and garnished with green chutney

      Beetroot Tikki | Beetroot Cutlet

      Healthy, easy to make, and incredibly delicious, these vibrant beetroot tikkis are crispy on the outside, soft inside, and full of flavour in every bite!
      View Recipe
      close up of cucumber sushi served with soy sauce

      Cucumber Sushi

      A crunchy and refreshing vegetarian appetizer, this cucumber sushi has got everything – crunch, umami, and texture. Plus, it's really healthy and look good too!
      View Recipe
      cucumber rolls served on a white platter

      Cucumber rolls

      Crunchy, refreshing, creamy, and insanely delicious, these cucumber rolls are unlike anything you've ever had before. Makes for a gorgeous Diwali appetizer ✨
      View Recipe
      5 from 1 vote

      Air Fryer Bang Bang Cauliflower

      One bite in and you’ll wonder how cauliflower got this fun; crunchy, saucy, and full of flavour, Bang Bang Cauliflower is the ultimate snack upgrade.
      View Recipe
      close up of sprouts dhokla garnished with tempering and served on a leaf platter

      Sprouts Dhokla

      Quick and easy, yet insanely healthy and delicious, this moong sprouts dhokla makes for the perfect party appetiser or 5 pm snack!
      View Recipe
      an image of several paneer toasts served on a round white platter

      Paneer Beetroot Toast

      Tangy, herby, and incredibly vibrant, this paneer beetrooat toast is the easiest NYE appetizer or game night snack!
      View Recipe
      A close up image of Asian cucumber salad to show it's texture

      Asian Cucumber Salad with Tofu

      Creamy, spicy, herby, refreshing, and crunchy is the best way to describe this Asian cucumber salad with tofu that's cooling and sooo perfect for the summer!
      View Recipe
      freshly baked air fryer stuffed mushroom lined up in the air fryer

      Air Fryer Stuffed Mushrooms

      Crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor—these Air Fryer Stuffed Mushrooms are the perfect bite-sized appetizer!
      View Recipe
      close up of hara bhara kebabs to show their texture

      Hara Bhara Kebabs

      These Hara Bhara Kebabs made with greens and potatoes are the OG 90s snack best served with green chutnye or ketchup!
      View Recipe
      air fryer samosas served with ketchup

      Air Fryer Aloo Samosa

      Just as flaky and crisp as the real deal – without all the excess oil – these air fryer aloo samosas is here to become your newest favorite, guilt-free tea time snack!
      View Recipe
      Nepali Mushroom Salad or Sadheko, served in bowl

      Nepali Mushroom Salad | Mushroom Sadheko

      Bold, fiery, and addictive, this Nepali Mushroom Salad or Sadeko is easy and comes together with simple ingredients. But don’t be fooled, because one bite, and I promise you won’t be able to stop!
      View Recipe
      air fryer potato chips in a transparent glass container

      Air Fryer Potato Chips

      These air fryer potato chips as crispy, light, and crunchy as it's packaged counterparts, but this one's made from scratch in the air fryer which makes it a whole lot cleaner and healthier ❤️
      View Recipe
      crispy sooji fries served with tomato ketchup

      Sooji Fries

      Another recipe on my tiffin-series, these sooji fries are a healthier, more wholesome replacement to regular French fries. The kids love these too!
      View Recipe
      Naan bombs served on a platter with mint chutney and marigold flowers strewn about

      Achaari Paneer Naan Bombs

      Gooey, cheesy achaari paneer-filled naan bombs are a true flavour bomb. I make this in my pizza oven for that perfect bake!
      View Recipe
      a close up image of chinese bhel to show the crunchy texture
      5 from 1 vote

      Chinese Bhel

      Saucy, crispy, spicy, tangy… Chinese Bhel is a flavor and texture bomb. It's the easiest thing to whip up both for random chat cravings and unexpected guests.
      View Recipe
      Roasted Makhana and Nuts served in a white bowl

      Air Fryer Roasted Makhana and Nuts

      Makhana is the new healthy snack! It's wonderfully crispy, irresistibly crunchy, and oh-so-delicious, plus, they're a breeze to whip up. With the air fryer at work, there's no need for excess oil, and in just 20 minutes, you've got a wholesome snack ready to enjoy!
      View Recipe

      Broccoli Tikki | Broccoli Cutlet

      Loaded with veggies, paneer, and cheese, this broccoli tikki makes for a quick, wholesome, and filling snack for kids and adults alike!
      View Recipe
      Jowar dhokla served on a banana leaf on a plate with coconut chutney on the side
      5 from 1 vote

      JOWAR DHOKLA / SORGHUM DHOKLA

      Try this recipe to make soft & healthy jowar dhokla at home. Dhoklas are a savoury and mildly sweet sponge-like snack which is steamed and incredibly healthy. Serve it with a coconut chutney for a delicious breakfast or snack.
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      crispy cornflakes chivda served in a bowl

      Cornflakes Chivda | Trail Mix

      Crispy textures and savory flavors come together to make this Cornflakes Chivda, which is the perfect snack for tea-time or in between meals!
      View Recipe
      Picture of namak para in a white bowl with cups of chai around it
      5 from 1 vote

      Namak Para

      Namak Para is a popular Indian snack that’s usually made during festivals like holi and diwali for an easy, satisfying snack. Generally made with all maida (all purpose flour), I actually prefer this version where all purpose flour and whole wheat flour are used in equal quantities.
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      Easy Aloo Chaat - delhi style served on a plate with sev on the side
      4.58 from 7 votes

      Easy Aloo Chaat – Delhi Style

      This addictive Indian street food snack is a must make because the flavors of aloo chaat are unbeatable! 
      View Recipe
      Super cheesy jalapeno three cheese samosa are sure to become a favourite because who can resist gooey stringy cheese stuffed in crispy samosa wrappers! These vegetarian samosas have a filling of mozzarella, cream cheese, smoked cheddar and jalapenos and folding them is really easy too. 
      4 from 1 vote

      Jalapeno Three Cheese Samosa

      Super cheese jalapeno three cheese samosas are sure to become a favourite because who can resist gooey stringy cheese stuffed in crispy samosa wrappers! These vegetarian samosas have a filling of mozzarella, cream cheese, smoked cheddar and jalapenos and folding them is really easy too.
      View Recipe
      watermelon pizza slices topped with fresh fruits on a white plate

      Watermelon Pizza

      Quick and easy, this watermelon pizza is the perfect summer staple! Made with juicy watermelon slices and topped with creamy cheese sauce and some fresh fruits, this dish is the perfect 5 pm snack or party appetiser!
      View Recipe
      The tikkis served with chutney, ketchup and Tetley green tea.
      5 from 2 votes

      Healthy Aloo Paneer Tikki

      Healthy north indian style aloo paneer tikkis are the perfect and easy appetizer for chilly evenings or when you have guests over!
      View Recipe
      Crunchy vegetable pakoras served on a wooden board with green coriander chutney
      5 from 2 votes

      Vegetable Pakoras

      Watch recipe video above. It is the season for vegetable pakoras, spicy green chutney and masala chai. And I’m bringing you a recipe that has been tailored specifically for maximum crunch factor. These have a secret ingredient that makes every bite super crunchy and extra crispy.
      View Recipe
      Closeup of a beautiful, perfect golden brown samosa
      4.86 from 47 votes

      The Best Indian Punjabi Samosa

      This is definitely the best Indian punjabi samosa you’ll every make at home! I’m arming you with step by step directions and a recipe video for you to follow. So you can learn how to make the samosa dough, the aloo stuffing and how to easily wrap them.
      View Recipe
      Honey chilli potatoes served on a white bowl with spring onions and sesame seeds on the side
      4.88 from 24 votes

      Crispy Honey Chilli Potatoes

      Watch Recipe Video Above. Crispy Honey Chilli Potatoes are a super addictive snack – fried potato fingers are tossed in a sesame honey chilli sauce that's sweet and spicy and will give you sticky fingers that you'll be licking to get every last bit of sauce!
      View Recipe
      Paneer pakora photographed two ways
      5 from 1 vote

      Paneer Pakora Recipe 2 Ways

      Here's a recipe for super crispy paneer pakoras, done two ways. These pakoras have soft paneer on the inside and a really crispy batter outside!
      View Recipe
      Green Cilanatro Chutney served with pakoras or fritters on the side.
      5 from 8 votes

      Green Coriander Chutney

      This green coriander chutney recipe is the best chutney you will ever try! Its fresh, tart, sweet and spicy and goes so well with pakoras, kebabs, samosas, cutlets, fritters or even as a spread on sandwiches. This is a recipe that’s pretty different from most other recipes out there, and you’ll believe me when you taste it!
      View Recipe
      Crispy fried spinach in a spoon
      4.84 from 6 votes

      Crackling Spinach

      Crispy Fried Spinach is basically deep fried spinach tossed with ginger, garlic, sesame seeds, salt, sugar and chilli flakes. It's like a party in your mouth!
      View Recipe
      Many pieces of thread paneer served on a tissue paper lined plate
      5 from 2 votes

      Crispy Thread Paneer

      Super crunchy appetizer with marinated pieces of paneer wrapped in cooked noodles and deep fried. Nobody can resist these!
      View Recipe
      Gobi manchurian served in a blue bowl
      5 from 9 votes

      Gobi Manchurian

      Easy Gobi Manchurian is a popular Indo Chinese recipe where super crispy cauliflower florets are tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce in a way that they remain crispy till the end!
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      Veg Cutlets served in a blue bowl with green chutney and ketchup
      5 from 2 votes

      Railway Style Veg Cutlets

      Veg Cutlets or Veg croquettes are a crispy tea time snack that everyone will love. Made with a potato beetroot filling and a vermicelli coating, these are crispy outside and really flavourful inside.
      View Recipe
      Closeup of onion pakodas served on a board
      5 from 6 votes

      Onion Pakora

      With my easy dry batter trick, you'll always have crispest onion pakodas. These make for a fantastic evening or pre-dinner snack and work really with my coriander chutney or just plain ketchup!
      View Recipe
      Mushroom pepper fry served in a bowl
      4.98 from 37 votes

      South Indian Mushroom Pepper Fry

      Simple, easy south Indian mushroom pepper fry is a great way to use mushrooms in sabji. Spicy, peppery, this is best served with malabar parottas and rice
      View Recipe
      Paneer kathi roll cut into pieces and stacked on top of the other
      5 from 3 votes

      Chinese Style Paneer Kathi Roll

      Delicious street style Indian snack – these Kathi rolls are filled with a chilli paneer filling stuffed in a flaky, crispy paratha
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      Easy Tandoori Whole Baked Cauliflower that is a really different way of serving cauliflower!
      4.75 from 4 votes

      Easy Tandoori Whole Baked Cauliflower

      Easy tandoori whole baked cauliflower recipe which makes a stunning, healthy vegetarian main course!
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      Closeup of sabudana vada bombs stuffed with paneer stacked on top of one another
      5 from 3 votes

      Sabudana Vada Bombs stuffed with Paneer

      Taking Sabudana Vadas to the next level with these amazing Sabudana Bombs that have a delicious, creamy paneer filling inside. These are hearty, filling cutlets that are perfect for breakfast or as a snack, and can be made for Navratri as a fasting dish.
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      Chilli Paneer served on a platter
      5 from 9 votes

      Street Style Chilli Paneer

      Make street style chilli paneer easily with this recipe! Sweet, spicy, tangy with soft cubes of crispy paneer – this recipe is irresistable!
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      a shot of hariyali paneer tikka on skewers placed on a white plate
      5 from 1 vote

      Hariyali Paneer Tikka

      This Hariyali Paneer Tikka brings a refreshing twist to your typical paneer dishes. It's made with straightforward ingredients but delivers bold flavours that'll surprise you!
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      a plate of dahi vada with curd, tamarind chutney and coriander mint chutney drizzled on top.

      Dahi Vada

      If you're looking for a delicious snack to try, consider making Dahi Vada or Dahi Bhalla! This North Indian chaat has a versatile taste and texture thanks to the different ingredients involved. It has all the sweet, sour, salty and spicy elements of a chaat, making it an ideal evening snack!
      View Recipe
      Air fried kurkuri bhindi in a white bowl

      Air Fryer Kurkuri Bhindi

      This air fryer kurkuri bhindi is perfect for easy cooking and even easier eating! It’s a game changer, made with pantry staples and hardly any oil. And it tastes even better than when you deep fry it in oil. Serve it as an appetiser, snack or even for lunch along with some dal and roti.
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      A spoonful of tamarind chutney being taken out of a bowl
      5 from 1 vote

      Tamarind Chutney

      Tamarind Chutney is an Indian condiment or sauce that's sweet, sour, spicy and savoury. Its generally used as an accompaniment to various Indian chaats but also works really well as a dipping sauce or a marinade. A jar will last you over a year in the fridge!
      View Recipe
      Bread Chaat served on a white plate with a spoon on the side
      5 from 1 vote

      Bread Chaat

      A super creative way to make chaat by using bread as base and topping it with all the chaat essentials – boiled potatoes, onions, coriander chutney, imli chutney and sev. This is like a cross between sev puri and dahi vada and its so so good.
      View Recipe
      Corn Bhel served in a cowl with a spoon on the side

      Corn Bhel

      Chinese style Corn Bhel is a sweet, spicy, crunchy recipe which really celebrates corn. Takes only 10 minutes to put together and makes the best 5PM snack on a rainy day.
      View Recipe
      Spring Rolls served on a platter with sweet chilli sauce

      Veg Spring Roll

      Veg Spring Roll is an addictive Chinese appetizer that's made with a noodle filling encased in a wheat-based pastry wrapper. Wrapped like mini burritos and deep-fried till crisp, these are the first things to go at a party. I recently discovered that these get just as crispy in the air fryer so I've added instructions below for air fryer spring rolls as well.
      View Recipe

      Check out more Diwali snack recipes here

      Diwali Mains

      Paneer do pyaza served in a white bowl with accompaniments

      Paneer Do Pyaza

      Rich, spicy, tangy, and loaded with texture, this paneer do pyaza is a classic restaurant style dish that tastes incredible with some naan!
      View Recipe
      a close up image of jackfruit biryani garnished with mint leaves to show it's fluffy texture
      5 from 1 vote

      Jackfruit Biryani | Kathal Biryani

      This jackfruit biryani packs a punch with juicy jackfruit and big, comforting flavors – mimicking the texture and flavors of meat, but in a 100% vegetarian biryani.
      View Recipe
      a close up image of veg kadai to show it's texture and color

      Veg Kadai | Veg Kadhai

      This Veg Kadai is a celebration of Indian cooking. It's got veggies, masalas, and a creamy red gravy that tastes delicious scooped with some naan or roti ❤️
      View Recipe
      Dhaba style paneer masala in a kadhai with a wooden ladle

      Dhaba Style Paneer Masala

      A spicy, flavorful paneer curry with the same rustic flavors from a highway-side dhaba. Serve it with rice, naan, or roti for a delicious meal!
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      paneer ghee roast served on banana leaf with neer dosa

      Paneer Ghee Roast

      Ghee roast is traditionally made with Chicken or even seafood but here’s a vegetarian version which is just as good. Dry roasted spices are ground to a smooth paste and as the name suggests, cooked in a lot of ghee. This ghee roast masala coats the paneer cubes and gives it an irresistible flavour and aroma. You can whiff it from a mile away!
      View Recipe
      mushroom ghee roast tacos served on a leaf
      5 from 1 vote

      Mushroom Ghee Roast Tacos

      Rich, refreshing, and wholesome is the best way to describe these Mushroom Ghee Roast Tacos. You've never had anything like this before!
      View Recipe
      dhaba style aloo palak served in a bowl with sliced onions and a lemon wedge
      5 from 2 votes

      Dhaba Style Aloo Palak

      Rustic and smokey flavors come together to make this dhaba style aloo palak. It's a quick and easy dry sabzi that tastes best with roti or naan.
      View Recipe
      orange rasam in a container with a ladle

      Orange Rasam

      Spicy, tangy, zesty, yet incredibly refreshing, this Orange Rasam will be your new favorite way of making this traditional South Indian staple dish.
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      dahi tadka or chukauni served in an earthen bowl

      Dahi Tadka | Chukauni

      Dahi Tadka or Chukauni is a simple recipe takes plain dahi (curd) and levels it up with a spicy, aromatic tempering of spices and oil. A total summer staple!
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      vibrant kadhi pakora garnished with a tadka and coriander leaves, served in a copper handi
      5 from 1 vote

      Punjabi Kadhi Pakoda

      Punjabi Kadhi Pakoda is punchy, sour and spicy. It's different from other versions of kadhi pakodi because of its use of spices, onions, garlic and tomatoes. Pair it with steamed rice for the ultimate comfort food!
      View Recipe
      close up of dahi aloo sabzi to show it's texture

      Vrat Wale Aloo (No onion, no garlic) | Dahi Wale Aloo

      When you want something quick, filling, and vrat-friendly, nothing beats a bowl of dahi wale aloo. Simple spices, creamy yogurt, and soft potatoes come together in a dish you’ll make on repeat.
      View Recipe
      Mushroom chilli on a white plate with a fork on the side

      Air Fryer Mushroom Chilli

      Air Fryer Mushroom Chilli
      View Recipe
      paneer kali mirch gravy served in a bowl with cream drizzled on top

      Paneer Kali Mirch

      Simple yet stunning, this mild black pepper-based paneer gravy is creamy and luscious. It's a hit with both adults and children!
      View Recipe
      Dal Makhani served in a brown ceramic bowl with cream drizzled on top and naan and sliced onions on the side
      4.85 from 39 votes

      Dal Makhani – The Ultimate Recipe! for Stovetop, Pressure Cooker and Instant Pot

      This is the ultimate recipe for dal makhani – a buttery, luscious lentil curry. The lentils are cooked in an onion, tomato mixture and finished with a lot of cream. This recipe is a weekend project, but it’ll make you enough that leftovers will last you a few days.
      View Recipe
      kerala veg stew served with appam
      5 from 1 vote

      Kerala Veg Stew

      This Kerala Veg Stew is comfort in a bowl. It's a super simple yet delicious recipe that's mildly spiced and the perfect vehicle to dip dosas and appams in. It's usually served as breakfast, but can be eaten for lunch as well as dinner.
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      A picture of the curry plated with rice and onions.
      4.50 from 2 votes

      Chana Aloo or Chhole Aloo Masala (Spicy Chickpeas and Potato Curry)

      Chana aloo or chhole aloo is one of the most delicious Indian curries you’ll ever taste! Spicy, moderately hot and packed with flavor.
      View Recipe
      Paneer Butter Masala served in a black bowl with naan and sliced onions on the side
      4.87 from 100 votes

      Restaurant Style Paneer Butter Masala

      Here's an easy recipe for the perfect restaurant style paneer butter masala. It's a luscious onion tomato gravy with creaminess from cashews, khus khus (poppy seeds), butter and cream. Soft paneer simmered in this gravy is a big hit with everyone
      View Recipe
      Vegetable Korma Curry straight from the stove served in a cast iron pan
      4.72 from 14 votes

      Vegetable Korma Curry

      This authentic vegetable korma curry has a creamy cashew sauce as a base and is loaded with wholesome vegetables like potatoes, cauliflower florets, peas, french beans and even carrot – it packs in the perfect medley of crunch and vegetable goodness in every spoon. Perfect comfort food which can be served as a soup, or with a side of rice and naan bread.
      View Recipe
      Picture of saag paneer in the pan that it was cooked in with a spoon
      5 from 1 vote

      Authentic Saag Paneer

      You are going to love this healthy saag paneer which is an easy, Indian recipe thats full of flavor and uses a combination of mustard greens or arugula and spinach. It’s gluten free, ready in 30 minutes and is perfect with naan or parathas.
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      Closeup of the palak paneer gravy to show the luxurious, rich curry base
      4.97 from 31 votes

      Easy Palak Paneer Recipe

      This is the easiest recipe you'll find for Palak Paneer. No blanching spinach, no heavy spices and the result is a luxurious, creamy restaurant style dish that takes only 30 minutes to make.
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      Dhaba Style Dal Fry garnished with lime, coriander and served in a dabba with a side of rotis.
      4.86 from 28 votes

      Dhaba Style Dal Fry

      Spicy, smokey and really authentic Indian punjabi Dhaba Style Dal Fry (lentil curry soup). A quick 30 minute recipe which is wholesome and healthy. This recipe has been re-tested and updated.
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      Vegetable Jalfrezi served with rotis
      5 from 8 votes

      Vegetable Jalfrezi

      This restaurant style vegetable jalfrezi may have a long list of ingredients but if you prep ahead, you'll be surprised at how fast it comes together. It's mildly spiced, and packs in a lot of veggies! Just use what you have at hand.
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      shot of matar paneer gravy in a white bowl with coriander sprinkled on top
      4.96 from 41 votes

      Creamy Matar Paneer Curry

      Easy to follow recipe for creamy matar paneer curry which is ready in under 30 minutes. Comforting and home style, this ghar ka khana recipe is a winner!
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      The Healthy Palak Paneer Kofta Curry in a pan with cream drizzled on top
      5 from 1 vote

      Healthy Palak Paneer Kofta Curry

      Simple recipe for healthy paneer koftas simmered in a palak or spinach curry plus a tip to get restaurant style green colour without food colouring.
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      Achari Paneer served in a copper steel bowl with rotis on the side
      5 from 7 votes

      Spicy Achari Paneer

      An authentic recipe for spicy achari paneer or cottage cheese in pickling spices to surprise your family!
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      Pav Bhaji served in a steel plate with ladi pav, onions and coriander on the side
      5 from 10 votes

      Pav Bhaji – Mumbai Style

      A really unique take on mashed vegetables, Pav Bhaji is a popular street food where cooked vegetables are tempered with spices and butter and mashed till creamy and buttery
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      Spoon going into corn palak to show the texture and garlic tadka
      5 from 14 votes

      Lasooni Corn Palak | Makai Palak

      A lush green spinach based gravy thats mildly spiced and extra garlicky with sweet corn in it. This restaurant style Indian curry is creamy, flavourful and has a beautiful texture.
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      Rajma Masala served in a blue bowl with chopped coriander sprinkled over
      4.93 from 13 votes

      Rajma Recipe (Easy Rajma Masala)

      Rajma Masala is comfort food at its best. Kidney beans or rajma is cooked and then simmered in a luscious onion tomato gravy till thick and tasty. Best served with steamed rice and ghee!
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      A bowl of Dhaba style Moong Dal served with rice and sliced onions on a plate
      5 from 12 votes

      Dhaba Style Moong Dal

      Make moong dal even more tasty with this Dhaba Style version which makes this dish spicy and smoky and absolutely perfect for a family lunch or dinner.
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      Mushroom masala served in a white bowl with a drizzle of cream on top with paratha on the side
      5 from 8 votes

      Restaurant Style Mushroom Masala

      This mushroom masala is made restaurant style and has a spicy, tangy curry with matar to add more texture and freshness. Pair this with parathas or rice for a really satisfying lunch or dinner!
      View Recipe
      5 from 1 vote

      Amritsari Dal

      Amritsari Dal is a thick, luxurious dal recipe that is tempered with spices and aromatics to create a dish that only needs some lachha paratha to mop it up.
      View Recipe
      Picture of potato curry served in a brown terracotta bowl
      5 from 1 vote

      Potato Curry (No Onion Garlic)

      This is the simplest, easiest potato curry. It has no onion no garlic and uses just one spice. But don't worry, the simplest flavours come together to make a really delicious curry!
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      Bowl of pindi chole served with bhatura and potatoes on the side
      5 from 2 votes

      Pindi Chole | No Onion Garlic Chana

      Pindi Chole is a very flavourful chickpea curry recipe that has no onion, garlic or tomatoes. It has a typical dark colour that comes from cooking it slowly on a cast iron pan or kadhai. Serve with bhaturas, naan or kulchas, this can double up as breakfast, lunch or dinner!
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      Shaam savera kofta curry served on a platter
      5 from 1 vote

      No Onion Garlic Shaam Savera Kofta

      Shaam Savera or Palak Paneer Kofta Curry is a delicious way to up your kofta game and put something on the table that really stands out. This is a no onion garlic recipe for those who follow the sattvic lifestyle or want something extra special for Navratri
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      Langar wali dal served in a green ceramic bowl with naan and onions on the side
      5 from 2 votes

      Langar wali Dal

      Langar wali Dal is the dal served at Gurdwaras across the world. It's creamy, smokey and has a beautiful finish from the tempering. This dal has a special place because it's prepared by volunteers.
      View Recipe
      Picture of shahi paneer served in a black bowl with onions and naan on the side
      4.75 from 8 votes

      Shahi Paneer

      Velvety smooth gravy, soft cubes of paneer and a tonne of flavour makes this dish truly royal. This is a Punjabi version of Shahi Paneer which is why the gravy is orange-ish and not white.
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      Diwali Sides

      air fryer rolls brushed with butter and sesame seeds
      5 from 3 votes

      Air Fryer Dinner Rolls

      Pillow-y soft, buttery goodness: that’s how I’d describe these Air Fryer Dinner Rolls. Making them doesn’t get easier than this!
      View Recipe
      Pieces of the no yeast Naan that is prepared in 30 minutes.
      4.92 from 50 votes

      Instant No Yeast Naan in 30 minutes

      Instant No Yeast Naan bread recipe which doesn’t require any yeast or eggs and takes only 30 minutes from start to finish and can be made on the gas stove in a skillet. No oven or tandoor.
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      Kabuli Chana Pulao served in a bowl with onions and a salad
      5 from 1 vote

      Kabuli Chana Pulao

      Kabuli Chana Pulao is a one pot recipe where spices, chickpeas and rice are cooked together till the rice is fluffy. It’s a delicious weeknight dinner that doesn’t take long to cook and tastes best when paired with raita.
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      garlic thecha naan on a wooden board
      5 from 1 vote

      Thecha Naan | Stuffed Chilli Cheese Naan

      Cheesy garlicky and spicy, this Thecha Naan is made with a roasted garlic and chilli stuffing making it super delicious!
      View Recipe
      a close up image of jeera rice to show it's fluffy texture
      4.85 from 51 votes

      Perfect Jeera Rice (Indian Cumin Rice)

      This recipe for jeera rice (Indian steamed cumin rice) will never fail you! You don’t need a rice cooker or fancy equipment to make this. Just a few ingredients and a pot and you’ll have fluffy, flavorful jeera rice ready in under 10 minutes.
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      tender coconut appam in a wicker basket
      5 from 1 vote

      Tender Coconut Appam | Palappam

      Soft, fluffy and lacy is the best way to describe these Tender Coconut Appams. With a little prep and a handful of pantry staples, making appam at home is incredibly easy. Serve it with some Veg Stew for a comforting and wholesome meal!
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      Rice idiyappams served on banana leaf in a plate

      Rice Idiyappam

      Light, delicate, beautifully steamed and absolutely addictive, these rice idiyappams look complicated but are insanely easy to make!
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      picture of tahari rice in a white plate with a steel spoon
      5 from 2 votes

      Tahari

      Tahari, a beloved rice dish in Uttar Pradesh, is a go-to for vegetarians. This one-pot wonder combines rice with winter veggies like potatoes, green peas, and cauliflower. It's a delightful, comforting dish, ideal for those days when you crave something easy yet satisfying!
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      three bean salad served with wooden spoons

      Three Bean Salad

      This three bean salad makes for a super healthy and delicious meal. it's crunchy and creamy with a refreshing salad dressing that takes the whole dish a notch a higher!
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      This pressure cooker veg pulao recipe is fragrant, fluffy and perfect every single time! Making this in an instant pot or any other pressure cooker ensures that everything cooks fast. Cooked with whole spices and lots of vegetables, this is the perfect side dish.
      5 from 5 votes

      Pressure Cooker Veg Pulao (Rice Pilaf)

      This pressure cooker veg pulao recipe is fragrant, fluffy and perfect every single time! Making this in an instant pot or any other pressure cooker ensures that everything cooks fast. Cooked with whole spices and lots of vegetables, this is the perfect side dish. Watch Video ABOVE.
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      Ragi dosa served in a steel plate on a banana leaf with coconut chutney and podi

      Instant Ragi Dosa

      Ragi dosa is an instant dosa recipe that’s also a great way to include millets in your diet. It doesn’t need any grinding or fermenting. Rich in iron and fibre, these dosas are healthy, hearty & nutritious. The trick is to make sure the batter is the consistency of milk.
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      Raw mango rice in a kadai with a ladle
      5 from 1 vote

      Raw Mango Rice

      Make the most of mango season with raw mango and turmeric rice. Use brown rice for a healthier alternative to Maavinakayi Chitranna/ Mangai sadham as it is locally called.
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      freshly steamed ragi idiyappams placed in a in steamer
      4 from 1 vote

      Ragi Idiyappam

      Quick and easy, this ragi idiyappam is a healthy addition to your meal rotation. Tastes delicious with chutney as well as curry
      View Recipe
      Soft puffy rotis stacked on a plate
      4.92 from 23 votes

      Soft Rotis – How to make them at home

      Making soft rotis at home only needs two ingredients – atta (wholemeal wheat flour) and water. From kneading the dough to rolling them out and cooking them, the entire process takes approx 10-15 minutes with some resting time in between. Once you master this skill, homemade bread is never far away!
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      Flavorful lemon rice served on a wooden plate with a spoon.
      5 from 2 votes

      Easy Lemon Rice (Yellow Rice)

      A really simple lemon rice recipe – it’s flavored with lime juice and zest so that the rice really packs a punch and is full of flavor. Made all in one pot from start to finish, this yellow rice is easy to put together and is excellent with raita on the side.
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      Dal paratha served in a kids tiffin box with fruits, nuts, curd and veggies

      Chutney Dal Paratha

      The perfect way to turn leftover parathas into something yummy and nutritious, these chutney dal parathas make for the perfect breakfast for the whole family, kids included!
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      Warm Kasuri Methi parathas that make for a healthy and a homely meal.
      5 from 2 votes

      Kasuri Methi Parathas | Fenugreek Flatbread

      Recipe for easy, flavorful kasuri methi parathas or fenugreek flatbread. No yeast or eggs required and they only take minutes!
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      Pooris served on a plate with aloo bhaji, onions
      5 from 3 votes

      How to make the Perfect Pooris

      Ever wonder how restaurants get those picture-perfect puffed pooris every single time? The secret? A few tiny tricks you’ll wish you knew sooner.
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      Ghee Rice pictured in the pot that it was made in topped with fried onions and fried cashews
      4.75 from 4 votes

      How to make Ghee Rice

      Ghee Rice is a simple recipe that takes less than twenty minutes to make. Its flavorful, aromatic and a great way to elevate steamed rice if you want something extra on the table!
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      Single ladi pav stacked on top of other baked ladi pavs
      5 from 6 votes

      Ladi Pav

      Ladi Pav is a Mumbai style dinner roll thats really soft, buttery and has a beautiful crumb. Its served traditionally with pav bhaji, misal pav or for vada pav
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      Closeup of Indian raita served in a white bowl topped with coriander or cilantro.
      4.89 from 9 votes

      Indian Raita – How to make it and its many variations!

      Raita is a delicious Indian side that has a cooling effect. It’s made with whisked plain yogurt and is really versatile – so you can add your favorite mix ins to it. Its similar to tzatziki but not as thick and can be made sweet or savory.
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      Asian Slaw in a grey bowl with fork on white background

      Asian Slaw | Healthy Cabbage Salad

      This Asian Slaw salad that's made with crunchy veggies and a sweet and spicy sauce. It's the perfect refreshing summer salad that's filling yet super light on the stomach.
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      A plate of stacked bhature with a side of fried chilli, fried aloo and chole
      5 from 1 vote

      Bhatura

      Bhaturas are deep-fried Indian flatbreads with a light and airy texture that makes them the perfect accompaniment to soak up any curry.
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      Lachha Parathas served on a plate with curry and onions
      5 from 1 vote

      Lachha Paratha

      Flaky, layered paratha that's crispy through and through. It's made with just four ingredients and looks gorgeous as you can see multiple layers in each paratha.
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      Picture of onion raita served in a white bowl on a white plate
      5 from 3 votes

      Onion Raita

      Onion Raita or Pyaaz ka Raita is an easy vegetarian raita recipe where onions and mint are mixed with curd or yoghurt. Its cooling, refreshing and goes really well with biryanis, pulaos and spicy curries.
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      Drinks

      pudina chaas with ice cubes served in a glass on a metal tray
      5 from 3 votes

      Pudina Chaas or Mint Chaas

      Super refreshing, this pudina chaas is extremely cooling in nature and has a herby, fresh flavour from mint. Takes minutes to put together and can be enjoyed every day in the summer
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      beetroot chaas with ice cubes served in a glass on a metal tray
      5 from 3 votes

      Beetroot Chaas

      Flavoured with beetroot, this version of chaas or Indian buttermilk really packs a punch and looks beautiful because of its natural pink colour.
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      masala chaas with ice cubes served in a glass on a metal tray
      5 from 3 votes

      Masala Chaas (Indian Spiced Buttermilk)

      Masala Chaas is lightly spiced with ginger, green chillies with a tempering on top. It's also called majjige, and is a super refreshing summer drink made from yogurt.
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      Diwali Recipes for Desserts

      a close up of orange makhana pudding served in orange peel bowls
      4 from 2 votes

      Orange Makhana Pudding

      Fresh and zesty meets the sweetness of milky pudding in this Orange Makhana Pudding. A super simple Diwali dessert that's sweet, creamy and citrus-y and looks gorgeous on the table!
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      Orange kalakand served in shot glasses and topped with orange segments and chopped nuts
      5 from 1 vote

      Orange Kalakand

      A creamy, zesty, and super moist version of the popular Bengali sweet, Orange Kalakand is the perfect for the festive season ✨
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      rose kacha golla garnished with dried rose petal and served on a leaf square

      Rose Kacha Golla

      This rose kacha golla is a super moist and delicious variant of the popular Bengali sweet, sandesh. It's floral notes and melt-in-mouth texture will make this your favorite Diwali mithai ✨
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      saffron milk pudding bites served in a white bowl
      5 from 1 vote

      Saffron Milk Pudding Bites

      This Saffron Milk Pudding Bites has a fun creamy, jelly-like texture and a warm, cosy flavor. It's an easy-peasy mithai that smells and tastes of Diwali 🪔
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      close up of rasmalai sandwich garnished with pistachios and served on a white platter

      Rasmalai Sandwich

      This Rasmalai Sandwich is the crunchy, crispy, and healthy version of the Bengali rasmalai. This is a really simple recipe that comes together with just pantry staples and tastes like a party in your mouth ✨
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      coconut pudding with pineapple jelly garnished with toasted coconut flakes, pineapple slice and mint leaves and served in shot glasses

      Coconut Pudding With Pineapple Jelly

      Creamy, coconut-y, fresh, and loaded with texture, this coconut pudding with pineapple jelly is the kind of dessert that no one can eat just one!
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      healthy chocobar ice creams garnished with chopped nuts and placed on a white platter

      Healthy Chocobar | Homemade Chocobar Ice Cream

      A sweet treat that's actually good for you – this healthy chocobar ice cream is creamy, nutty, chocolate-y, and made with the most clean, wholesome ingredients!
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      Overhead shot of crispy homemade jalebis with almond flakes sprinkled on top
      5 from 4 votes

      Homemade Jalebi – Thin and Crispy

      Thin and crispy jalebis are everyone’s undoing. Make them at home now with easy step by step instructions that’ll give you the best homemade jalebis every single time. Perfect for festivals like Diwali and Holi when you want a feast that doesn’t take ages to make.
      View Recipe
      a close up image of orange posset dessert

      Orange Posset

      Tangy, creamy, and decadent, this orange posset is one of the easiest and most delicious desserts you'll ever make!
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      eggless churros served with chocolate sauce

      Eggless churros

      These eggless churros are a total flavor and texture delight! Made from simple ingredients in under 30 minutes, this is a delicious and fun dessert you just need to try!
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      a white bowl with sooji halwa with sprinkled pistachio on top
      5 from 2 votes

      Sooji Halwa

      This dessert made of semolina is my mum's recipe which has a very caramel and nutty note that just makes it absolutely delectable.
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      5 from 2 votes

      Paneer Chocolate Pudding

      A rich and creamy chocolate pudding that's high in protein, easy to make, and sooo chocolate-y! Desserts really do not get better than this!
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      a slice of rasmalai cake garnished with cream, crushed nuts and rose petals on a white plate

      Rasmalai Cake

      An Indian fusion dessert that combines the gooey textures of tres leches cake and our favorite Indian mithai rasmalai – this is a dessert you need to try at least once!
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      A close up shot of malpua arranged on a white plate with nuts and saffron sprinkled on top
      5 from 1 vote

      Malpua

      Crispy malpuas in a sweet syrup is the ideal dessert for Holi! My recipe helps you make almost an instant version of this famous Indian sweet!
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      4 from 1 vote

      Ragi Chocolate Cake

      This cake is made with 100% Ragi flour which also makes it gluten free. The result is a perfectly moist and fluffy cake with a solid chocolate-y-ness.
      View Recipe
      Overhead shot of rice kheer in mud pots
      5 from 4 votes

      Rice Kheer

      This easy rice kheer or chawal ki kheer is probably the most popular Indian dessert there is. Made with long grained basmati rice and sweetened with condensed milk, it’s simple enough that you can make it often, and elegant enough to serve to guests!
      View Recipe
      Lavender White Chocolate Truffles served with Big Banyan's Bellissima.

      Lavender White Chocolate Truffles

      Lavender white chocolate truffles are fragrant, creamy white chocolate bites that are perfect for the festive season and holidays! Use them to serve as mini desserts, or for gifting.
      View Recipe
      Garam Masala Eggless Apple Bundt Cake topped with a brown butter and rum glaze.

      Garam Masala Eggless Apple Bundt Cake

      Garam Masala Eggless Apple Bundt Cake – easy, moist, spiced cake made with fresh apples and glazed with a brown butter rum sauce.
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      Festive Chocolate Rice Kheer served in aesthetically pleasing glasses by Chumbak.

      Festive Chocolate Rice Kheer (Pudding)

      Super easy recipe for a festive chocolate rice kheer pudding made without condensed milk but still really creamy. Perfect for your Diwali dessert table or any other Indian festival. Actually you won’t need a reason to make this one!
      View Recipe
      Healthy Quinoa Apple Kheer - a light dessert for your family celebrations.
      5 from 1 vote

      Healthy Quinoa Apple Kheer

      Healthy quinoa apple kheer is a low calorie Indian festival dessert, full of fiber and nutrition and a perfect way to celebrate Diwali or Dussehra with your family!
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      Baileys Chocolate Ice Cream scoops
      4.80 from 5 votes

      Baileys Chocolate Ice Cream

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      Instant Rabdi

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      Eggless Chocolate Pudding Cake

      Self saucing eggless chocolate pudding cake has a crinkly top, a moist cakey texture and a pool of chocolate sauce. Made very quickly in the microwave, truly decadent, we love serving this with vanilla ice cream on top!
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      Eggless Lemon Cake

      Tart and sweet, this eggless lemon cake is the perfect blend of both! Really soft and moist, this recipe is a keeper.
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      These Diwali recipes are sure to make this festive season even more special! Pick your favorites and build your own menu – something that’ll work for you. And have a happy and safe diwali!

      The post 120+ Amazing Veg Diwali Recipes appeared first on My Food Story.

      Air Fryer General Tso’s Chicken

      19 September 2025 at 05:58

      The charm of General Tso Chicken is simple: bold, sticky flavours wrapped around juicy chicken. And with this recipe you don’t need a takeout box to get it.

      air fryer general tso's chicken freshly made still in the frying pan

      General Tso’s chicken has always been one of those dishes I can’t resist ordering– crispy little bites wrapped in that glossy, sweet-spicy sauce; it’s absolute perfection. On the surface, it looks like it would be a lot of work, but once you break it down, it’s actually super doable at home. And honestly, it tastes even better because you get to control how saucy, spicy, or tangy you want it.

      You can go classic with a deep fry for that crunchy bite, or air fry if you want to keep it lighter. Either way, the sauce clings beautifully to the chicken, and yes, you’ll probably end up fighting for the last piece.

      About This Recipe

      General Tso’s chicken became so iconic in the US that it even got its own documentary—The Search for General Tso (2014). The film follows the story of how this dish, which doesn’t really exist in China, became one of the most loved “Chinese takeout” meals in America. It traces its roots back to Chinese chefs who moved to the US and adapted flavours for local palates, and shows how a simple, sweet-and-spicy chicken dish ended up as a cultural phenomenon.

      General Tso’s Chicken Ingredients

      For the marinade

      • Chicken thighs (boneless, cut into cubes) 
      • Ginger + garlic (grated) – for flavor
      • Cornflour – for a light coating
      • Salt – for seasoning.
      • Egg whites – to bind everything together and make the coating crispier.

      For dredging

      • All-purpose flour (maida) – The main coating that makes the chicken golden.
      • Baking powder – Makes the chicken light and crispy. 
      • Salt – for seasoning
      • Water – for binding 

      For the General Tso’s sauce

      • Sauces: Light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, ketchup, and vinegar for lots of flavor 
      • Sugar – That hint of sweetness General Tso’s is known for.
      • White pepper – Gentle heat and flavour.
      • Cornstarch + water – Thickens the sauce into a glossy glaze.
      • Toasted sesame oil – Nutty aroma that finishes the sauce beautifully.

      For the stir-fry

      • Cooking oil – Any neutral-flavored oil such as sunflower, peanut, canola, etc. 
      • Garlic + ginger (finely chopped) – Punchy aromatics that flavour the base.
      • Whole red chillies – For heat and spiciness 
      • Red capsicum (bell pepper) – A pop of colour and crunch.

      Other

      • Cooking oil (extra) – For brushing or deep frying

      Richa’s Top Tips

      • Marinate properly – Even 30 minutes makes the chicken more flavourful and tender.
      • Get clumpy dredge – Sprinkle water into the flour so you get those rough clumps that fry up extra crispy.
      • Use thighs, not breasts – Thighs stay juicy after frying, while breasts can dry out quickly.
      • High heat = flavour – Stir-fry garlic, ginger, and chillies on high heat for that punchy aroma.
      • Don’t rush the sauce – Let it bubble until glossy before tossing the chicken in.

      Frequently Asked Questions

      Why is it called General Tso’s chicken?

      Funny enough, the dish isn’t actually from China—it’s an American-Chinese creation. It was named after General Tso, a 19th-century Chinese military leader, but there’s no record of him ever eating it. The name just stuck because it sounded authentic!

      What’s the difference between General Tso’s chicken and Kung Pao chicken?

      Both are saucy chicken dishes, but the flavours are pretty different. General Tso’s is sweet, tangy, and a little spicy, with a sticky sauce. Kung Pao is lighter, spicier, and has peanuts for crunch, giving it more of a savoury kick.

      Can I make this vegetarian?

      Absolutely! Swap the chicken for crispy tofu, cauliflower florets, or even mushrooms. They soak up the sauce beautifully, and you’ll get the same glossy, sweet-spicy flavour.

      Storage Tips

      • Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a pan or oven so the chicken gets some of its crispiness back.
      • Freezer: The fried chicken (without sauce) freezes really well for up to a month. Re-crisp it in the oven or air fryer, then toss in fresh sauce.
      • Sauce ahead: Make the General Tso’s sauce and keep it in the fridge for 3–4 days. When ready to serve, fry the chicken and toss it in.
      • Meal prep tip: If you want to save time, dredge and air fry the chicken earlier in the day, then just reheat and coat in sauce before dinner.

      Serving Ideas

      General Tso’s chicken is bold, saucy, and a little fiery—it deserves sides that balance or soak it all up. Here are some recipes from the blog that make perfect pairings:

      Customisation Ideas

      • Add nutty flavour by tossing in roasted cashews or peanuts when stir-frying.
      • Balance the heat with pineapple chunks for a sweet-tangy bite.
      • Bulk it up by adding broccoli, snap peas, or baby corn to the stir-fry.
      • Finish with crunch by sprinkling toasted sesame seeds just before serving.
      • Turn up the spice with extra chilli paste or fresh green chillies.
      • Brighten the sauce with a splash of orange juice or a little zest.
      • Make it richer by swapping some of the sugar with honey for a deeper glaze.
      • Add freshness with spring onion greens, coriander, or Thai basil on top.

      General Tso’s chicken is proof that bold flavours don’t have to stay in the takeout box, you can bring them straight to your table. Whether you deep fry or air fry, pile it over rice or sneak bites right from the wok, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll keep coming back to. 

      And if you do make it, tag me on Instagram @my_foodstory, I’d love to see your General Tso’s plates!

      Watch General Tso’s Chicken Recipe Video

      air fryer general tso's chicken freshly made still in the frying pan
      Print

      Air Fryer General Tso’s Chicken

      The charm of General Tso’s Chicken is simple: bold, sticky flavours wrapped around juicy chicken. And with this recipe you don’t need a takeout box to get it.
      Course Snacks & Appetisers
      Cuisine Indian Chinese
      Diet Halal
      Prep Time 5 minutes
      Cook Time 35 minutes
      Total Time 40 minutes
      Servings 4 people
      Calories 361kcal
      Author Richa

      Equipment

      Ingredients

      Marinade

      • 500 gms boneless chicken thigh / cut into ¾ inch cubes
      • 2 teaspoons grated ginger
      • 1 tablespoon grated garlic
      • 2 tablespoons cornflour
      • ½ teaspoon salt
      • 2 egg whites

      For dredging

      • 1 ½ cups all purpose flour maida
      • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
      • ½ teaspoon salt
      • 1 tablespoon water

      For General Tso sauce

      • ¼ cup light soy sauce
      • 2 teaspoons dark soy sauce
      • 2 tablespoons sugar
      • 2 tablespoons vinegar
      • 2 tablespoons ketchup
      • 1 teaspoon white pepper
      • 2 teaspoons cornstarch
      • ½ cup water
      • 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil

      For stir fry

      • 1 tablespoon cooking oil
      • 1 tablespoon garlic finely chopped
      • 1 tablespoon ginger finely chopped
      • 6 red chillies whole
      • ½ red capsicum cut into ½ inch squares

      Other

      • 1-2 tablespoons cooking oil for brushing additional oil if deep frying

      Instructions

      Marinating chicken

      • Take all ingredients for marination in a bowl, mix to combine well. Set aside for 30 minutes.
        500 gms boneless chicken thigh / cut into ¾ inch cubes, 2 teaspoons grated ginger, 1 tablespoon grated garlic, 2 tablespoons cornflour, ½ teaspoon salt, 2 egg whites

      Dredging chicken

      • Take maida, baking powder & salt in a deep plate or a flat bowl, sprinkle water and mix the flour to get large clumps in it. Dip marinated chicken and ensure it is coated well on all the sides. Place on a plate and repeat the same process for all the marinated chicken cubes.
        1 ½ cups all purpose flour, 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder, ½ teaspoon salt, 1 tablespoon water

      Deep Fry method

      • Heat ½ cup of oil in a deep pan and once it’s medium hot, drop dredged chicken into the oil & fry on medium heat for 4-5 minutes or till they turn crisp. Set aside.
        1-2 tablespoons cooking oil for brushing
      • OR
        1-2 tablespoons cooking oil for brushing

      Airfryer method

      • Pre-heat airfryer at 180C. brush the airfryer basket with oil. Place the dredged chicken with some gap between each other and air fry at 180C for 13 minutes while flipping and brushing oil on chicken every 7 minutes. Air fry at 200 C for 2 minutes till they turn crisp.

      General tso sauce

      • Take all the ingredients under general tso sauce mix in a bowl & mix to combine well. Set aside.
        ¼ cup light soy sauce, 2 teaspoons dark soy sauce, 2 tablespoons sugar, 2 tablespoons vinegar, 2 tablespoons ketchup, 1 teaspoon white pepper, 2 teaspoons cornstarch, ½ cup water, 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil

      Making General tso chicken

      • Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a pan or wok, add ginger, garlic & saute on high for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add red chillies, red capsicum and saute on high for a minute. Add the General tso sauce & cook for 1-2 minutes while stirring continuously. Add the fried chicken, toss well for 1-2 minutes and serve.
        1 tablespoon cooking oil, 1 tablespoon garlic, 1 tablespoon ginger, 6 red chillies, ½ red capsicum

      Video

      Notes

      1. Fry the aromatics on high heat which enhances its flavour.
      2. The cooking time in the Air Fryer might vary slightly with different brands and capacities.

      Nutrition

      Calories: 361kcal | Carbohydrates: 59g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 0.03g | Sodium: 1822mg | Potassium: 410mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 12g | Vitamin A: 1147IU | Vitamin C: 118mg | Calcium: 122mg | Iron: 4mg

      The post Air Fryer General Tso’s Chicken appeared first on My Food Story.

      Schezwan Sauce | Schezwan Chutney

      By: Richa
      17 September 2025 at 06:05

      This homemade Schezwan sauce is fiery, garlicky, and totally addictive — perfect for tossing into noodles, rice, or using as a spicy dip! The best part? You can make a batch and keep it in the fridge for whenever those Indo-Chinese cravings hit. 

      Learn how to make this simple schezwan sauce which is perfect with chicken lollipops, schezwan rice, noodles and manchurian (Step by step video recipe)

      I’ve always been that person asking for extra Schezwan Sauce with my momos so it just made sense for me to start making it at home! It’s cleaner, pocket-friendly, and I can now put this schezwan chutney on everything – dosas, fried rice, noodles.  It also makes for a great dipping sauce.forliterally any snack from spring rolls to chakli, and is a must to have in the fridge for  whenever those Indo-Chinese cravings hit!  

      My sister and I have the BEST childhood memories of ordering extra schezwan sauce at our fav Chinese restaurant just to take home and eat it with papad the next day. You guys have to trust me on this combination. It is the ultimate chatpata snack! And now I can have it all the time, and the best part? This Schezwan Sauce recipe is fresh and preservative-free, just how we like it. 

      Schezwan Sauce Ingredients

      Ingredients for schezwan sauce. Pictures here are chillies and water
      • Chillies: I used a combination of Byadgi Chillies (for heat) and Kashmiri Chillies (for colour and flavour). You can change the proportions a little if you want it to be more or less spicy.

      The chillies are soaked in hot water to soften them and then blended with a little bit of that water into a coarse paste. We don’t want to break them down completely because we want texture as well. So keep the mixture coarse where you can still see bits of chillies

      All the ingredients required for schezwan sauce are pictures on a wooden board, except chillies and hot water
      • Shallots/Sambar Onions/Pearl Onions: Any of these smaller varieties of onions will work here. They have a milder flavour than red onions and soften beautifully
      • Garlic and Ginger: Lots of finely chopped garlic and ginger. I usually buy peeled garlic when I make this schezwan sauce/ schezwan chutney to make life easier
      • Ketchup: My favourite thing to add when I’m making Indo Chinese because it has the perfect balance of sweet, salty, acidic
      • Sugar: Might seem like a lot but you need this to balance out the heat from the chillies
      • Soy Sauce: Light soy sauce to add that hit of umami
      • Vinegar: To add acidity. Use synthetic or rice vinegar
      • Oil: There is 1/3 cup of oil in this recipe. I don’t recommend reducing it. The oil does two things – it helps cook the chillies till they are jammy and helps preserve this sauce so that it can last up to a month in the fridge

      How to make Schezwan Sauce

      This is a simple recipe that has a lot of hands off time while the sauce is simmering and reducing

      1. Soak: Soak the chillies in hot water to soften them. I like to discard the stems before soaking
      2. Blend: Blend to a coarse paste with a little water. The smoother the chilli paste, the less texture you’ll have in the sauce. And that texture makes a big difference
      3. Saute: Saute the ginger, garlic and onions in oil till they soften but be careful not to brown the onions. As soon as they are translucent, you know they are ready.
      4. Chillies: Add the coarsely blended chillies and all the other ingredients along with water and mix well
      5. Simmer: Let the sauce come to a simmer and then cover and cook, stirring occasionally in between till the sauce reduces and takes on a jammy consistency. You should also see oil floating on top. That’s when you know the sauce is ready and the chillies have cooked down. This process can take anywhere between 25-40 minutes.
      6. Cool and store: Let the sauce cool completely before you transfer it to an airtight container. This will last for up to 4 weeks in the fridge (if you don’t finish it before that 😂)
      Learn how to make this simple schezwan sauce which is perfect with chicken lollipops, schezwan rice, noodles and manchurian (Step by step video recipe)

      Frequently Asked Questions

      What is Schezwan sauce?

      Schezwan sauce is an Indo-Chinese spicy chutney made with red chillies, garlic, vinegar, and sugar. It’s used in fried rice, noodles, stir-fries, and famously, as a dip for momos at streetside stalls. 

      Is Schezwan sauce spicy?

      Yes! It’s fiery, but the heat is balanced with tang from vinegar and a hint of sweetness. Using Kashmiri chillies makes it less sharp but still bold.

      How long can I store homemade Schezwan sauce?

      It stays fresh in the fridge for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze in small portions and thaw before use.

      Can I use regular chillies instead of Kashmiri chillies?

      Yes, but the color will be less vibrant and the sauce spicier. Adjust the chillies based on your spice preference.

      Richa’s Top Tips

      • The proportion of chillies will determine heat levels in this sauce. You can play around with this proportion based on how spicy you’d like your schezwan chutney/sauce to be I wouldn’t recommend reducing the oil in this recipe as it helps preserve the sauce so that it can be stored for a month or so. We’ll also be using very small quantities of it for dipping or as a condiment so the total calories are not very high
      • Use a chopper or food processor to chop the shallots, ginger and garlic finely. Makes the task much faster!
      • Taste and adjust sugar, vinegar, and salt until balanced.
      • Make sure to cool the schezwan sauce before storing and refrigerating. 
      • Store in the fridge in a clean, dry glass jar.

      Serving Suggestions

      If you still aren’t convinced about this low-effort high-rewards sauce, here are a few more reasons:

      Storage Suggestions

      • Storage: The sauce can be store in a clean, air tight container in the fridge for up to a month
      • Freezer Friendly: You can also portion the sauce and freeze it and it can last for up to 3 months. I sometimes like to portion it out into ice trays and freeze it. Once frozen, I remove the cubes, transfer them to a zip lock and freeze. Then I have perfect portions anytime I want to thaw them.
      Learn how to make this simple schezwan sauce which is perfect with chicken lollipops, schezwan rice, noodles and manchurian (Step by step video recipe)

      Ever since I discovered this Schezwan Sauce recipe, I make a large batch at least once a month and use it for as long as it lasts (which TBH, is not that long!). I have this with everything!! Once you try this, you’ll never go back to store-bought and I think that’s beautiful ❤️

      If you liked this recipe, be sure to check my other saucy Indo-Chinese recipes like these Chilli Chicken Noodles and Corn Bhel!

      Watch Schezwan Sauce Recipe Video

      Schezwan sauce in a jar.
      Print

      How To Make Schezwan Sauce (Step by Step Video)

      Learn how to make this simple indo-chinese schezwan sauce/condiment which goes really well with chicken lollipops, schezwan rice, noodles and manchurian. Makes 1.5 cups. Each serving size is estimated at 1 tbsp.
      Course Dips, Dressings & Sauces
      Cuisine Asian, Chinese, Indian
      Diet Vegan, Vegetarian
      Prep Time 10 minutes
      Cook Time 40 minutes
      Total Time 50 minutes
      Servings 24 servings
      Calories 43kcal
      Author Richa

      Ingredients

      • 1/3 cup Vegetable oil
      • 15 cloves Garlic finely chopped
      • 1 1/2 inch Ginger finely chopped
      • 6 Shallots or Sambhar Onions, minced
      • 23 Kashmiri Red Chilies
      • 3 Byadgi Chillies
      • 1 teaspoon soy sauce
      • 1 teaspoon Vinegar
      • 1/4 cup Water
      • 2 tablespoons Ketchup
      • 3 tablespoons Sugar
      • 1 teaspoon Salt to taste

      Instructions

      • Soak the chillies in hot water for half an hour. Add only the chillies to a blender along with 2-3 tbsp water and blend to a coarse paste
      • Heat oil in a pan and add garlic and ginger. Saute on a low flame till the raw aroma goes. Be careful not to brown or burn the ginger garlic.
      • Add the minced onions and let them cook on a low flame till they soften and turn translucent. Be careful not to let them brown.
      • Once the onions look like they are almost melting, add ground chilies, soy sauce, vinegar, ketchup, sugar, salt and 1/4 cup water. Mix well.
      • Bring this to a boil and simmer till the sauce thickens. Oil should have separated, and there should be some oil floating on top.
      • Switch off the flame and let it cool. Once the sauce has completely cooled down, transfer to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 15 days.

      Video

      Notes

      1. Chillies: I used a combination of Byadgi Chillies (for heat) and Kashmiri Chillies (for colour and flavour). You can change the proportions a little if you want it to be more or less spicy.
      2. Shallots/Sambar Onions/Pearl Onions: Any of these smaller varieties of onions will work here. They have a milder flavour than red onions and soften beautifully
      3. Simmer: You should also see oil floating on top. That’s when you know the sauce is ready and the chillies have cooked down. This process can take anywhere between 25-40 minutes.
      4. Cool and store: Let the sauce cool completely before you transfer it to an airtight container. This will last for up to 4 weeks in the fridge.
      5. The nutrition label below is for 15 servings

      Nutrition

      Calories: 43kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 124mg | Potassium: 45mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 150IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 6mg | Iron: 1mg

      This article was researched and written by Navya Khetarpal.

      The post Schezwan Sauce | Schezwan Chutney appeared first on My Food Story.

      Boneless Chicken Biryani | Meghana Style

      16 September 2025 at 07:58

      If you love biryani and fried chicken, this Boneles Chicken Biryani will blow your mind! It’s a super flavorful, layered biryani that’s a Sunday ritual for every Bangalorean household (and now it can become YOURS too!).

      boneless chicken biryani served in a copper handi style bowl

      My Bangalore readers know that there’s nothing like Meghana’s Boneless Chicken Biryani. I mean, fried chicken in biryani is genius 🤌and everyone deserves to know what this biryani tastes like. So here is how to make the city’s favorite biryani right at home!! Make this once, and you’ll be making it every Sunday 😉 

      I love taking inspiration from Bangalore when I’m testing recipes, like my favorite Donne Biryani Style Chicken Pulao and Kavitha Aunty’s Rice Bath. We’ve been big fans of the chicken biryani at Meghana for years now and it was about time it made it to the blog! 

      What exactly IS Meghana Biryani?

      This Meghana biryani isn’t like your average biryani. It’s got spiced masala rice that’s layered with a rich, herby tomato gravy and topped with the most delicious fried chicken gravy. There’s a homemade spice mix involved, a little saffron, some cream, and all sorts of whole spices galore that make this preparation truly unique. It’s indulgent, bold, and absolutely perfect for special days or whenever you’re in the mood to treat yourself!

      Boneless Chicken Biryani Ingredients

      Special Spice Powder: magical things happen when you bring together nutmeg, star anise, cinnamon, cloves and cardamom

      Chicken Marinade: boneless chicken, turmeric powder, cumin powder, salt, chilli powder, and thethen that special spice powder from above, along with ginger garlic paste and green chilli sauce to add some depth. We also add and egg, curd, corn flour, and maida so that the chicken is perfectly crispy when fried

      Biryani Rice: basmati rice, water, and salt along with but we also add bay leaves, cinnamon, cardamom and cloves forhere to add another layer of flavor 

      Chicken Gravy: curry leaves, green chillies, onions, ginger garlic paste, turmeric powder, chilli powder, tomato puree, salt, water, more of our special spice powder, garam masala, cardamom powder, fresh cream and coriander seeds. Each step of the way we keep adding spices – that’s what makes this biryani so unique!

      Biryani Rice Gravy: ghee, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, kapok bud, black cardamom, star anise, blade mace, onions, ginger garlic paste, green chillies, coriander leaves, spice powders, tomato puree, curd, kasuri methi, shahi jeera, cow milk, lemon juice 

      Other: we’ll also need cooking oil to fry our chicken, along with some hot water, saffron and ghee for the topping 

      Frequently Asked Questions

      Which is the best cut of chicken for this recipe?

      Boneless chicken thighs work best — tender, juicy, and perfect for frying.

      Can I make this recipe with bone-in chicken?

      Yes, but adjust frying time. Bone-in pieces release juices during dum, which changes the texture slightly.

      Can I make it with lamb or mutton?

      Definitely! Cook mutton/lamb till tender before layering. The flavor will be deeper and richer.

      How spicy is this biryani?

      This Meghana Boneless Biryani is meant to be medium-hot, but you can adjust chilli powder and green chillies to suit your taste.

      Can I prep ahead?

      Yes, you can marinate and fry chicken, and prep the gravies a day in advance. Just cook the rice and layer when ready.

      Serving Ideas

      • Pair this delicious fried chicken biryani with Onion Raita
      • Top it with salan to take the heat up
      • Serve with a side of kachumber salad or even crispy papad 

      Storage Tips

      • You can store this biryani in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days 
      close up of boneless chicken biryani to showcase it's texture

      Life has been significantly better since I’ve started making this Meghana Boneless Chicken Biryani – and I’ll let the biryani speak for itself! You neeed to try this one, it’s worth all the effort and is truly a recipe that everyone will be requesting more of. I

      f you give it a try, do share your pictures over on my IG @my_foodstory! Love biryani? Also check out my classic Chicken Biryani and Mutton Biryani recipes ❤️

      Watch Boneless Chicken Biryani Recipe Video

      boneless chicken biryani served in a copper handi style bowl
      Print

      Boneless Chicken Biryani | Meghana Style

      If you love biryani and fried chicken, this Boneless Chicken Biryani from the famous Meghana's In Bangalore will blow your mind! Super flavorful and layered to perfection, this biryani will become a Sunday ritual!
      Course Main Course
      Cuisine Indian
      Diet Halal
      Prep Time 10 minutes
      Cook Time 50 minutes
      Total Time 1 hour
      Servings 6 people
      Calories 691kcal
      Author Richa

      Ingredients

      special spice powder

      • ½ nutmeg
      • 1 star anise
      • 1 inch cinnamon
      • 5 cloves
      • 5 green cardamoms

      chicken marination

      • 750 gms boneless chicken cut into 1 ½ inch cubes
      • teaspoon turmeric powder
      • ¾ teaspoon salt
      • ½ teaspoon cumin powder
      • 1 tablespoon kashmiri chilli powder
      • 1 ½ teaspoons special spice powder
      • 1 tablespoon ginger garlic paste
      • 1 tablespoon green chilli sauce
      • 1 egg
      • 2 ½ tablespoons curds whisked
      • ¼ + ⅛ teaspoon black pepper powder
      • 3 tablespoons corn flour
      • 3 tablespoons maida

      Biryani rice

      • 2 cups basmati rice 340 gms, washed & soaked for 1 hour
      • 2 ¼ litres water
      • 2 tablespoons salt
      • 2 bay leaves
      • 1 inch cinnamon
      • 3 cardamoms
      • 3 cloves

      Other

      • ¼ cup + 2 tablespoons cooking oil divided (additional 2 tablespoons cooking oil for deep frying)
      • 2 tablespoons hot water
      • 1 pinch saffron
      • 2 teaspoons ghee

      For chicken gravy

      • 2 sprigs curry leaves
      • 3 green chillies finely chopped
      • ¾ cup finely chopped onions
      • 1 ½ teaspoons ginger garlic paste
      • ¼ + ⅛ teaspoon turmeric powder
      • 1 ½ teaspoons red chilli powder
      • 1 ½ teaspoons kashmiri chilli powder
      • ¾ cup tomato puree
      • ¾ teaspoon salt
      • ¼ cup + 2 tablespoons water
      • ¾ teaspoon special ground masala
      • ¼ + ⅛ teaspoon garam masala
      • teaspoon cardamom powder
      • 2 ¼ tablespoons fresh cream
      • 3 tablespoons finely chopped coriander leaves

      For biryani rice gravy

      • 2 teaspoons ghee
      • 4 cardamoms
      • 4 cloves
      • 1 ½ inch cinnamon
      • 1 kapok bud / marathi moggu
      • 1 black cardamom
      • 1 star anise
      • 1 blade mace
      • 1 cup thinly sliced onions
      • 2 teaspoons ginger garlic paste
      • 2 green chillies slit
      • 20 mint leaves
      • 2 tablespoons finely chopped coriander leaves
      • ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder
      • 1 teaspoon kashmiri red chilli powder
      • ¾ teaspoon salt
      • ¾ cup tomato puree
      • 2 ½ tablespoons curds whisked
      • ¼ teaspoon garam masala
      • teaspoon cardamom powder
      • 1 teaspoon kasuri methi
      • ½ teaspoon shahjeera
      • ¼ cup buffalo milk or cow milk
      • Juice of ½ lemon

      Instructions

      special spice powder

      • Add all the ingredients listed to a mortar & using the pestle grind to a fine powder and set aside. This will yield approx. 2 ¼ teaspoons.
        ½ nutmeg, 1 star anise, 1 inch cinnamon, 5 cloves, 5 green cardamoms

      Chicken marination

      • Take all the ingredients listed for marination in a bowl, mix well and set aside for 30 minutes.
        750 gms boneless chicken, ⅛ teaspoon turmeric powder, ¾ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon cumin powder, 1 tablespoon kashmiri chilli powder, 1 ½ teaspoons special spice powder, 1 tablespoon ginger garlic paste, 1 tablespoon green chilli sauce, 1 egg, 2 ½ tablespoons curds, ¼ + ⅛ teaspoon black pepper powder, 3 tablespoons corn flour, 3 tablespoons maida

      Biryani rice

      • heat water in a pot, add salt and whole spices. Once it boils, add soaked rice & boil on high for 3-4 minutes. Drain immediately and set aside. by this time rice is 90% cooked
        2 cups basmati rice, 2 ¼ litres water, 2 bay leaves, 1 inch cinnamon, 3 cardamoms, 3 cloves, 2 tablespoons salt

      Frying chicken

      • heat oil in a kadai or pan, add marinated chicken into the oil and fry for 4-5 minutes on medium flame until chicken is cooked from the inside & crisp from the outside. Do not overcrowd the pan and fry in batches. Set aside.
        ¼ cup + 2 tablespoons cooking oil

      saffron water

      • add a pinch of saffron to hot water or cooked rice water, mix and set aside to soak for 10 minutes.
        2 tablespoons hot water, 1 pinch saffron

      Fried chicken gravy

      • Heat 3 tablespoons of fried chicken oil in a pan or kadai, add curry leaves, green chillies, saute for a few seconds on high till fragrant.
        2 sprigs curry leaves, 3 green chillies
      • Add chopped onions and fry for 2 minutes on medium till they turn light golden. Add ginger garlic paste and fry for a minute on low. Add turmeric powder, red chilli powder and saute for a few seconds. Add tomato puree, salt and cook on low for 3-4 minutes till the tomatoes are cooked well and oil appears at the sides of the pan. Add ¼ cup water and boil for a minute. Add the remaining ½ teaspoon of special spice powder, garam masala, cardamom powder and mix well.
        ¾ cup finely chopped onions, 1 ½ teaspoons ginger garlic paste, ¼ + ⅛ teaspoon turmeric powder, 1 ½ teaspoons red chilli powder, ¾ cup tomato puree, ¾ teaspoon salt, ¼ cup + 2 tablespoons water, ¾ teaspoon special ground masala, ¼ + ⅛ teaspoon garam masala, ⅛ teaspoon cardamom powder
      • Add fried chicken pieces and saute for 2-3 minutes on low flame. Add 1 ½ tablespoons of fresh cream, cook for a minute, garnish with coriander leaves and take off the heat.
        2 ¼ tablespoons fresh cream, 3 tablespoons finely chopped coriander leaves

      Biryani rice gravy

      • Take 3 tablespoons of fried chicken oil & 2 teaspoons ghee preferably in a wide pan or kadai, add the whole spices – cardamoms, cloves, cinnamon, kapok bud, black cardamom, star anise, mace and saute for a few seconds till they are fragrant.
        2 teaspoons ghee, 4 cardamoms, 4 cloves, 1 ½ inch cinnamon, 1 kapok bud / marathi moggu, 1 black cardamom, 1 star anise, 1 blade mace
      • Add onions, salt and saute of medium for 2-3 minutes till they turn light golden. Add ginger garlic paste and saute for a minute. Add slit green chillies, mint & coriander leaves and cook for a minute. Add turmeric powder, kashmiri chilli powder, salt and saute for a minute.
        1 cup thinly sliced onions, 2 teaspoons ginger garlic paste, 2 green chillies, 20 mint leaves, 2 tablespoons finely chopped coriander leaves, ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder, 1 teaspoon kashmiri red chilli powder, ¾ teaspoon salt
      • Add tomato puree and cook on low for 3-4 minutes till the tomatoes are cooked well and oil appears at the sides of the pan. Add curds and cook for 2 minutes till the rawness goes & oil separates from the masala. Add garam masala, cardamom powder, kasuri methi, shah jeera, milk and cook for 2 minutes. Add lemon juice and take off the heat. Take out ¼ cup of the gravy and set aside separately.
        ¾ cup tomato puree, 2 ½ tablespoons curds, ¼ teaspoon garam masala, ⅛ teaspoon cardamom powder, 1 teaspoon kasuri methi, ½ teaspoon shahjeera, ¼ cup buffalo milk or cow milk, Juice of ½ lemon

      Layering biryani

      • spread cooked basmati rice evenly on top of the gravy. Add ¼ cup of gravy that was set aside and cover with rice, so the flavour stays within. Sprinkle ghee and cover with a lid. Heat a tawa and place the biryani kadai on top of it and steam for 10 minutes on low and rest for half an hour before serving.
      • Serving biryani: fluff up the biryani rice and add 1 ½ cups of it to a serving bowl. Spread approx. 1 ladle of fried chicken gravy on top and serve.

      Video

      Nutrition

      Calories: 691kcal | Carbohydrates: 76g | Protein: 36g | Fat: 26g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 10g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 175mg | Sodium: 3742mg | Potassium: 914mg | Fiber: 7g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 1483IU | Vitamin C: 24mg | Calcium: 213mg | Iron: 5mg

      This article was researched and written by Navya Khetarpal.

      The post Boneless Chicken Biryani | Meghana Style appeared first on My Food Story.

      Restaurant Style Butter Chicken Masala (Murgh Makhani)

      15 September 2025 at 07:52

      Craving butter chicken that actually tastes like the one you love eating out? This version is creamy, bold in flavour, and comes together without a fuss.

      Butter Chicken served in a bowl with rice and naan bread

      Butter chicken has a reputation for being tricky, but I am here to tell you it doesn’t have to be! This recipe keeps all the rich, smoky, restaurant-style flavour we love, without needing to spend hours in the kitchen or use buckets of cream and butter. The chicken stays juicy, the gravy turns out velvety, and you’ll probably want to wipe every last drop off the plate with some naan.

      What makes it extra fun is how simple the process of making this murgh makhani actually is. A quick marinade, a good sear, and then everything simmers in that luscious tomato-cashew sauce until it’s deep, bold, and comforting. 

      Ingredients To Make Butter Chicken

      To start with, here’s what you’ll need to marinate chicken for the butter chicken masala:

      Picture of all the ingredients for butter chicken marinade with text to identify each ingredient
      • Chicken thighs (boneless, skinless) – Juicy and tender, perfect for holding flavour.
      • Hung curd or Greek yogurt – Acts as a tenderiser and helps the spices stick.
      • Spices – Kashmiri chilli powder (for colour, not too much heat), coriander powder, turmeric, and garam masala for warmth.
      • Ginger-garlic paste – A classic base that adds depth.
      • Salt – To season and balance everything.
      Picture of all the ingredients for butter chicken gravy with text to identify each ingredient
      • Oil + butter – The balance of richness and lightness in the base.
      • Whole spices – Cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves for fragrance.
      • Dried Kashmiri red chillies – Add colour and flavour without making it fiery.
      • Garlic – For a savoury punch.
      • Onion – Used sparingly to balance the sauce without overpowering.
      • Tomatoes – The main body of the makhani gravy.
      • Cashews – For natural creaminess without needing too much fat.
      • Red chilli powder – A little heat and colour.
      • Ketchup – A touch of sweet-tangy balance (trust me, it works).
      • Kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) – The magic ingredient that gives butter chicken its unique flavour.
      • Salt – To taste.
      • Fresh cream – Stirred in at the end for that luscious finish.

      Recipe Tip

      If you don’t have cashews, feel free to substitute with blanched almonds (almonds soaked in water and skin taken off). Cashews and almonds naturally add creaminess to the gravy. 

      Origins of Butter Chicken

      Butter Chicken is an ‘accidental’ dish. It was developed by Kundal Lal Gujral of the famous Moti Mahal restaurant in Delhi who wanted to make use of leftover tandoori chicken. So he would throw in tomatoes, spices and leftover shredded tandoori chicken in a pot and slowly this came to be called ‘butter chicken’ or chicken makhani or murgh makhani.

      Now it’s one of the most popular and loved Indian dishes across the world. A restaurant favourite, but if you ask an Indian, it’s probably a ‘special occasion’ dish at home.

      Step by Step Butter Chicken Recipe

      Here’s a step by step breakdown of this easy chicken curry. It’s a really simple dish that actually doesn’t take too much time or effort to recreate at home.

      Marinating Chicken

      Start by mixing all the ingredients under marinade and adding the chicken to it.

      Mix well, cover and set aside for 15-30 minutes while you make the gravy.

      Making Gravy

      Heat 1 tablespoon oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet or pan. Add cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, whole red chilies and garlic. Saute for a minute or so till fragrant.

      Add onions and saute on high heat for 2-3 minutes till pink and translucent.

      Add tomatoes and cashew nuts. Mix once, reduce the flame to a simmer and cover and cook for 10-15 minutes till the tomatoes start breaking down and becoming slightly pulpy. Switch off the flame. Let the mixture cool completely.

      Once the mixture is cool, transfer to a blender or liquidiser, and blend till smooth.

      Transfer the puree back to the pan. Add chilli powder, ketchup, salt and 1/4 cup water. Bring this to a boil. Reduce the flame to low, and cover and cook for 20-25 minutes. The colour of gravy will change as it cooks and become a deep orange

      Gently stir the gravy to incorporate all the masalas.

      Skewer the marinated chicken and keep them ready to cook.

      Cooking chicken

      In another pan, heat a tablespoon of oil. Add the chicken pieces and sear them on each side for 2-3 minutes on high heat, till theres a char on them. Remove them from the pan and set aside.

      Or

      Preheat your air fryer and then air fry at 190C for 5 minutes. We want to cook the chicken partially because it will continue to cook in the gravy.

      Making Butter Chicken

      Add the chicken pieces and simmer for 10 minutes.

      Stir in the kasuri methi and fresh cream.

      Smoking Butter Chicken

      Naturally orange gravy

      I have to forewarn you about this. If you’ve always had reddish butter chicken gravy, it’s because of food colour. The butter chicken gravy is naturally orange-ish because of the tomatoes and the spices. 

      This recipe makes lots of sauce or gravy, so you can always reserve some for later. Use the same makhani gravy to add tofu, paneer, cauliflower etc. That butter chicken sauce is sooo good!

      Richa’s Top Tips

      • Don’t skip the marinade – It makes sure every piece of chicken is flavourful all the way through.
      • Thighs over breasts – Chicken thighs stay juicy even after simmering in the sauce, unlike breasts which can dry out.
      • Use cashews in the gravy – They add creaminess without needing heaps of butter or cream.
      • Go slow with the tomatoes – Cooking them down well gives the gravy its natural sweetness and deep colour.
      • Kasuri methi is a must – That little pinch of dried fenugreek is what makes it taste truly “restaurant-style.”

      Frequently Asked Questions

      Is butter chicken meant to be sweet or spicy?

      Neither extreme, it’s all about balance. The tomatoes give natural sweetness, the spices add warmth, and kasuri methi ties it together. A good butter chicken should be creamy, savoury, and gently spiced, not overly sweet or fiery hot.

      Can I make this vegetarian?

      Yes! The sauce is so good you can swap the chicken for paneer, tofu, mushrooms, or even roasted cauliflower. Just cook the replacement separately and add it to the gravy the same way you’d add the chicken.

      What can I add instead of cream?

      You can use milk, half-and-half, or even coconut cream for a dairy-free twist. Cashews (already in the recipe) also help keep the sauce creamy, so you won’t miss out on that velvety texture.

      Storage Tips

      • Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 2–3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or cream to bring the sauce back to life.
      • Freezer: The gravy (without cream) freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight, reheat, and stir in fresh cream before serving.
      • Make ahead: You can marinate the chicken a day in advance and keep it in the fridge. The gravy can also be cooked and refrigerated for 2–3 days. Combine them when you’re ready to eat.

      Serving Ideas

      Butter chicken is all about that rich, velvety sauce, which means it deserves the perfect sides. Here are some recipes from the blog that go beautifully with it:

      Customisation Ideas

      • Make it vegetarian – Swap the chicken for paneer, tofu, mushrooms, or cauliflower. The sauce is so good it works with anything.
      • Dial up the spice – Add more chilli powder or a couple of fresh green chillies if you like it hot.
      • Lighten it up – Use less butter and cream, or go with milk and cashews for a lighter version.
      • Go dairy-free – Try coconut cream instead of fresh cream for a delicious twist.
      • Smoky shortcut – If you don’t want to do the charcoal smoke step, use smoked paprika for a quick flavour boost.
      Butter chicken served in the pan it was cooked in with some chopped coriander on the side

      Butter chicken is one of those dishes that feels fancy but is actually so doable at home. With a quick marinade, a creamy tomato-cashew gravy, and that little kasuri methi magic, you’ve got a curry that’s rich, comforting, and tastes just like your favourite restaurant version.

      It’s versatile enough to be a weeknight dinner and impressive enough for a dinner party. Scoop it up with naan, pour it over rice, or sneak spoonfuls straight from the pan (no judgment).

      Tried it out? Tag me on Instagram @my_foodstory, I’d love to see your butter chicken bowls and spreads!

      Watch Butter Chicken Recipe Video

      Butter Chicken served in a bowl with rice and naan bread
      Print

      Easy Restaurant Style Butter Chicken Masala (Murgh Makhani)

      Authentic flavour but really easy, this restaurant style butter chicken masala (murgh makhani) recipe takes under an hour to put together! It's no fuss and perfect when you want Indian curry in a hurry. You'll want to drive that butter chicken sauce so make extras.
      Course Main Course
      Cuisine Indian, North Indian, Punjabi
      Diet Gluten Free, Halal
      Prep Time 10 minutes
      Cook Time 50 minutes
      Total Time 1 hour
      Servings 6 Portions
      Calories 586kcal
      Author Richa

      Ingredients

      • 1 kg Chicken Thighs skinless and boneless , cut into 1.5 inch pieces (or use bone-in Chicken pieces)
      • 1 tablespoon Oil

      For the Marinade

      • 1/2 cup Hung Curd or Greek Yogurt
      • 1 tablespoon Kashmiri Chilli Powder sub with 1/2 tbsp paprika + 1/2 tbsp cayenne
      • 1 tablespoon Coriander Powder
      • 1/2 teaspoon Turmeric
      • 1 1/2 tablespoons Ginger Garlic Paste
      • 1 teaspoon Garam Masala Powder
      • 1 teaspoon Salt

      For the Gravy

      • 1 tablespoon Oil
      • 1 tablespoon Butter
      • 1 inch Cinnamon
      • 2 Green Cardamom Pods
      • 3 Cloves
      • 5 Kashmiri Red Chillies dried chillies
      • 6 Garlic Cloves
      • 1 Onion roughly chopped
      • 1/4 cup Cashew Nuts
      • 7 – 8 Tomatoes approx 500 grams, roughly chopped (or 1 (15-ounce) can canned diced tomatoes)
      • 1/2 teaspoon Red Chilli Powder
      • 2 tablespoons Ketchup
      • 1 tablespoons Kasuri Methi dried fenugreek leaves
      • 1/2 teaspoon Salt taste and adjust
      • 3-4 tablespoons Fresh Cream

      Instructions

      • Start by mixing all the ingredients under marinade and adding the chicken to it. Mix well, cover and set aside for 15-30 minutes while you make the gravy.
      • For the gravy, heat 1 tablespoon oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet or pan. Add cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, whole red chilies and garlic. Saute for a minute or so till fragrant. Add onions and saute on high heat for 2-3 minutes till pink and translucent. Add tomatoes and cashew nuts. Mix once, reduce the flame to a simmer and cover and cook for 10-15 minutes till the tomatoes start breaking down and becoming pulpy.
      • Switch off the flame. Cool completely and transfer to a blender or liquidiser, and blend till smooth.
      • In another pan, heat a tablespoon of oil. Add the chicken pieces and sear them on each side for 2-3 minutes on high heat, till theres a char on them. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
      • OR
      • Pre heat your air fryer and then air fry at 190C for 5 minutes. We want to cook the chicken partially because it will continue to cook in the gravy
      • Transfer the puree back to the pan, add chilli powder, ketchup, salt and 1/4 cup water. Bring this to a boil. Reduce the flame to low, and cover and cook for 15-20 minutes. You'll notice the colour of the gravy change to a deep orange.
      • Add the chicken pieces and simmer for 10 minutes. Stir in the kasuri methi and fresh cream.
      • To smoke the chicken, place a small steel bowl (please don’t use plastic) in the middle of the butter chicken while it’s still in the pan. Heat a piece of charcoal or lump coal on an open flame till red hot and then place it in the bowl. Pour a teaspoon of oil or ghee over it, and as soon as it starts smoking, cover the pan with a lid. Smoke for 3-4 minutes. Remove the bowl and serve with naan or rice.

      Video

      Notes

      1. Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken pieces work best. The pieces should be cut into 1.5 inch size. You can also use skinless, bone-in chicken thats cut into medium sized pieces
      2. Tomatoes: Substitute fresh tomatoes with a 15 ounce can of diced tomatoes. Or use 1 1/2 cups Tomato Puree or Tomato Passata
      3. Garam Masala: I use homemade garam masala, but you can substitute it with any store bought garam masala. Please note that garam masala is different from curry powder
      4. Butter: I love adding butter to this dish, but you can substitute it with ghee
      5. Sweetness from Ketchup: I think a really mild sweetness in butter chicken is actually nice and it balances the sourness from tomatoes. But feel free to reduce or increase the amount of ketchup based on what you like.
      6. History of Butter Chicken: It is said that butter chicken was invented by Kundan Lal Gujral of the famous Moti Mahal chain of restaurants, who added leftover cooked tandoori chicken to a tomato gravy, in an attempt to use it and the rest is history. The dish became really famous. It is called Murgh Makhani on their menu. So if there is a debate, you know that butter chicken is definitely an Indian dish, unlike its counterpart Chicken Tikka Masala which was invented in the UK and is spicier and slightly different.

      Nutrition

      Calories: 586kcal | Carbohydrates: 24g | Protein: 35g | Fat: 40g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Cholesterol: 174mg | Sodium: 615mg | Potassium: 1337mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 13g | Vitamin A: 3662IU | Vitamin C: 98mg | Calcium: 100mg | Iron: 3mg

      This article was researched and written by Harita Odedra.

      The post Restaurant Style Butter Chicken Masala (Murgh Makhani) appeared first on My Food Story.

      Green Keema Masala | Irani Keema

      4 September 2025 at 07:22

      A little herby, a little creamy, and full of spice, this Irani-style Green Kkeema might just become your new comfort food.

      green keema masala served in a white bowl with onion rings, slit green chillies, and a lemon wedge

      You know how regular keema is already good? This green keema masala just takes it up a notch. The fresh coriander, mint, and a little spinach give it a bright, herby twist that makes it taste lighter but still full of flavour.

      What I love most is how low-effort it is!. The mince cooks in its own juices, so you don’t have to babysit the pan or drown it in water. By the time it’s done, the meat is tender, the masala is creamy, and it’s perfect with everything you’d like!

      Green Keema Masala Ingredients

      Green masala paste

      • Coriander leaves – The main flavour and colour booster.
      • Mint leaves – Adds freshness and a cooling note.
      • Palak (spinach) leaves – Just a few for body and that vibrant green color.
      • Green chillies – For heat; adjust depending on how spicy you like it.
      • Tomato – A little tang to balance the greens.
      • Coriander seeds – Adds a nNutty, earthy base flavour.
      • Peppercorns – For aA touch of spice and warmth.
      • Green cardamoms + black cardamom – For aroma and depth.
      • Ice cubes – Keeps the paste bright green while blending.

      For masala curd mix

      • Curd (yogurt), whisked – Creamy and tangy base.
      • Red chilli powder – Adds colour and heat.
      • Coriander powder – For a rounded, earthy flavour.
      • Jeera (cumin) powder – Adds warmth and depth.

      To make keema

      • Oil – Any neutral cooking oil works.
      • Cumin seeds – The first crackle of flavour.
      • Onions, finely chopped – Form the body of the masala.
      • Green chillies, slit – Extra bite of heat.
      • Ginger-garlic paste – The classic flavour foundation.
      • Mutton keema (minced mutton) – The hero of the dish.
      • Salt + turmeric powder – For seasoning and colour.
      • Water (optional) – Only if needed; the mince releases enough moisture.
      • Green peas – Sweetness and texture contrast.
      • Dill leaves – Fresh, slightly sharp flavour that lifts the keema.
      • Kasuri methi, roasted and crushed – Smoky, earthy notes.
      • Garam masala powder – To finish with warmth.
      • Butter – A touch of richness right at the end.
      • Coriander leaves, chopped – For garnish and freshness.

      Richa’s Top Tips For Green Keema Masala

      • Blend with ice cubes – Keeps the green masala paste bright and fresh-looking.
      • Whisk the curd well – Prevents it from splitting when it hits the hot pan.
      • Pour the curd on a low flame – Always add whisked curd into the pan after lower the heat to prevent it from splitting. 
      • Cook onions patiently – Let them turn golden for a deeper, sweeter flavour in the base.
      • Let the keema cook in its own juices – The mince releases enough moisture, so you don’t need to add extra water.
      • Add dill at the end – Keeps the flavour sharp and fresh instead of overpowering.
      • Butter makes it better – Stirring in butter at the end gives the keema a rich finish.

      Frequently Asked Questions

      What’s the difference between green keema and red keema?

      The base masala makes all the difference. Green keema is made with coriander, mint, spinach, and a fresh green paste, so it’s herby and lighter in taste. Red keema uses tomatoes, red chilli, and dry spices for a richer, spicier flavour.

      Can I make this with chicken instead of mutton?

      Yes! Chicken mince cooks much faster, so reduce the cooking time to about 10–12 minutes. Just keep an eye so it doesn’t dry out.

      What’s the difference between mince and keema?

      They’re basically the same, keema is just the Hindi/Urdu word for minced meat. Recipes like this one often say keema because it’s the traditional Indian style of cooking it.

      Storage Tips

      • Fridge: Store the cooked keema in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2–3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of water or stock to loosen it up.
      • Freezer: Keema freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe boxes and store for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
      • Meal prep: You can make the green masala paste in advance and refrigerate it for 2–3 days or freeze it in ice cube trays. Just pop a cube or two out when you’re ready to cook.
      • Best freshness tip: Add dill leaves fresh if possible, if frozen with the curry, they tend to lose their sharp flavour.

      Serving Ideas

      Green keema masala is hearty, herby, and full of flavour, the kind of dish that deserves a good partner on the plate. Here are some recipes from the blog that go perfectly with it:

      • With naan – Try it with Butter Naan or Garlic Naan for that classic keema-and-bread combo.
      • Rolled into parathas – Serve with Lachha Paratha or Plain Parathas for a filling meal.
      • Over rice – It pairs beautifully with Jeera Rice or Peas Pulao.
      • With biryani sides – Add it to a spread with Vegetable Biryani for a rich, festive table.
      • Simple comfort meal – Eat it with plain Steamed Rice and a side of Onion Raita when you want something homely.
      • As stuffing – Use it inside Homemade Pav for a Mumbai-style keema pav experience.

      Customisation Ideas

      • Switch the protein – Swap mutton for chicken or even lamb; just adjust cooking time (chicken cooks faster).
      • Make it vegetarian – Use soya granules, mushrooms, or finely chopped veggies for a hearty veg version.
      • Dial up the heat – Add extra green chillies or a spoon of chilli powder if you like it spicier.
      • Go lighter – Skip the butter at the end and use less oil if you want a leaner version.
      • Add more greens – Throw in extra spinach or methi leaves for a healthier twist.
      • Peas or no peas – Keep them for sweetness and texture, or leave them out if you prefer a smoother keema.
      green keema masala in a copper kadai with a ladle

      Did You Know?

      Mumbai’s Irani cafés, where this green keema masala has its roots, were started by Zoroastrian immigrants from Iran in the 19th and 20th centuries. These cafés quickly became iconic for serving affordable meals like keema pav, chai, and bun maska to busy city-goers. Unlike the spicier red keema, the Irani-style green keema uses fresh herbs like coriander, mint, and spinach, which give it a lighter flavour and that striking green colour. 

      This keema is simple, fresh, and hearty all at once. It’s got enough flavour to stand out, but still feels like something you can happily eat any day of the week. Just add some pav, rice, or naan and you’ve got yourself a proper comfort meal.

      Are you going to try it? Tag me on Instagram @my_foodstory, I’d love to see your keema creations!

      Watch Green Keema Masala Recipe Video

      green keema masala in a copper kadai with a ladle
      Print

      Green Keema Masala | Irani Keema

      A little herby, a little creamy, and full of spice, this Irani-style Green Kkeema might just become your new comfort food.
      Course Main Course
      Cuisine Indian
      Diet Halal
      Prep Time 10 minutes
      Cook Time 30 minutes
      Total Time 40 minutes
      Servings 4 people
      Calories 236kcal
      Author Richa

      Ingredients

      For green masala paste

      • ¾ cup coriander leaves
      • 9-10 mint leaves
      • 3-4 palak leaves
      • 3 green chillies
      • ½ tomato 20 gms
      • ¾ tablespoon coriander seeds dhania
      • 4 pepper corns
      • 2 green cardamoms
      • 1 black cardamom
      • 2 ice cubes

      Masala curd mix

      • ¼ cup curds whisked
      • 1 teaspoon red chilli powder
      • 1 ½ tablespoons coriander powder
      • ½ tablespoon jeera powder

      Other

      • 3 tablespoons oil
      • ¾ teaspoon cumin seeds jeera
      • 3 large onions finely chopped approx. 1 ¾ cup, 280 gms
      • 2 green chillies slit
      • 3 tablespoons ginger garlic paste
      • ½ kg mutton keema
      • ¼ teaspoon salt
      • ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder
      • ¼ – ½ cup water if needed
      • ¼ cup green peas fresh or frozen
      • ¼ cup dill leaves
      • ½ tablespoon kasuri methi roasted and crushed
      • ½ teaspoon garam masala powder
      • 1 tablespoon butter
      • 2 tablespoons finely chopped coriander leaves

      Instructions

      Making green masala paste

      • Add all ingredients for green paste into a blender, grind to a smooth paste and set aside.
        ¾ cup coriander leaves, 9-10 mint leaves, 3-4 palak leaves, 3 green chillies, ½ tomato, ¾ tablespoon coriander seeds, 4 pepper corns, 2 green cardamoms, 1 black cardamom, 2 ice cubes

      Making spice curd mix

      • Take all ingredients in a bowl, combine to make a smooth mixture and set aside.
        ¼ cup curds, 1 teaspoon red chilli powder, 1 ½ tablespoons coriander powder, ½ tablespoon jeera powder

      Making green keema masala

      • Heat oil in a kadai or pan, add cumin seeds and once they splutter, add onions & fry for 5-6 minutes on low till onions turn golden. Add ginger garlic paste and saute for 1-2 minutes till fragrant.
        3 tablespoons oil, ¾ teaspoon cumin seeds, 3 large onions finely chopped, 3 tablespoons ginger garlic paste
      • Add keema, turmeric powder, salt and saute on medium for 5-7 minutes till the keema is roasted well.
        ½ kg mutton keema, ¼ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder
      • Add the spice curd mix, green masala paste and saute for 3-4 minutes till the pastes are roasted well. Cook covered on low. As you cook, the mutton and curd will leave its own moisture, so there is no need to add extra water to it, let the mutton cook in its own water for next 15-18 minutes while stirring occasionally till the keema is tender. (See note 1)
      • Add dill leaves, green chillies, green peas, garam masala and ¼ to ½ cup of water (see note 2) and cook for 5-7 minutes till the green peas are cooked well but not mushy. Add kasuri methi, butter and cook for 1-2 minutes.
        2 green chillies, ¼ – ½ cup water, ¼ cup green peas, ¼ cup dill leaves, ½ tablespoon kasuri methi, ½ teaspoon garam masala powder, 1 tablespoon butter
      • Garnish with coriander leaves and serve.
        2 tablespoons finely chopped coriander leaves

      Video

      Notes

      1. If the mutton mince is of a tougher quality, you may need to pressure cook at this stage. Add the contents of the pan to a pressure cooker with approx. ¼ cup of water and cook on low for 3-4 whistles or 8-10 minutes till the meat is tender.
      2. Add ¼ to ½ cup of water, so the green peas get cooked.

      Nutrition

      Calories: 236kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 17g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 15mg | Sodium: 451mg | Potassium: 322mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 1058IU | Vitamin C: 24mg | Calcium: 130mg | Iron: 2mg

      This article was researched and written by Harita Odedra.

      The post Green Keema Masala | Irani Keema appeared first on My Food Story.

      Coconut Chutney

      22 August 2025 at 07:25

      This Coconut chutney recipe is the best way to turn South Indian food into something unforgettable. It’s quick, it’s fresh, and it’s the easiest way to turn a regular breakfast into something worth slowing down for.

      an image of coconut chutney made served in a bowl placed over a banana leaf platter

      There’s something about fresh coconut chutney that just makes a South Indian plate feel complete. Maybe it’s the way the coconut tastes clean and sweet, or the little kick from green chilli, or how that hot mustard seed tempering hits the cool chutney and sends up the best smell in the kitchen. 

      This version takes all of five minutes, just a quick blend and a sizzling tempering. It’s not fussy, so you don’t have to wait for a special occasion, and it’s just as happy next to a masala dosa as it is spread on toast when you’ve run out of butter. Make it once, and you’ll start finding reasons to keep a jar in the fridge.

      Coconut Chutney Ingredients

      For the chutney:

      • Grated coconut – Freshly grated for the best flavour, though frozen works too if thawed.
      • Green chilli – Brings a gentle heat that cuts through the creaminess.
      • Ginger – Adds a zesty freshness that lifts the chutney.
      • Curry leaves – Infuses a subtle earthy aroma even when blended in.
      • Coriander leaves – Bright, herby notes to balance the richness.
      • Roasted Bengal gram (chana dal) – Adds body and a nutty depth to the chutney.
      • Tamarind – A hint of tang to balance the creaminess.
      • Salt – To season and bring out all the flavours.

      For the tempering:

      • Vegetable oil – Neutral in flavour, perfect for frying the spices.
      • Mustard seeds – The classic South Indian tempering starter.
      • Urad dal – Adds a nutty crunch.
      • Curry leaves – Fragrant and essential for that authentic flavour.

      Richa’s Top Tips For Coconut Chutney

      • Control the heat – Adjust green chillies to your spice comfort level. A single chilli for mild, two or more for extra kick.
      • Tweak the texture – Grind for less time if you like it slightly coarse, or longer for a smooth, creamy finish.
      • Don’t skip the tempering – The sizzle of curry leaves and mustard seeds adds aroma and that signature South Indian touch.
      • Serve it fresh – Coconut chutney tastes best within a few hours of making. If storing, refrigerate and stir well before serving.
      • Avoid too much water – Add just enough to help grind smoothly; too much will make it watery and bland.
      • Grind with warm water: Using warm water to grind the chutney prevents the fat from separating.

      Frequently Asked Questions

      Can I use frozen coconut to make coconut chutney?

      Yes! Just thaw it completely before blending so it grinds smoothly. You might need to add a splash of warm water to bring back its natural softness.

      What is the correct consistency for coconut chutney?

      It’s really up to you—some like it thick and scoopable, others prefer it a bit looser for dipping. Add water slowly while grinding so you can control the texture.

      I don’t have roasted chana dal, what can I use instead?

      You can try roasted peanuts, cashews, or even a small piece of bread for binding. Each will slightly change the flavour, but they work well in a pinch.

      How long does coconut chutney last?

      It’s best eaten fresh, but you can store it in the fridge for up to 2–3 days. Keep it in an airtight container and stir well before serving.

      Storage Tips

      • Fridge: Store coconut chutney in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days. Add warm water to adjust the consistency and stir well to bring it together before serving.
      • Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in small airtight containers or ice cube trays. Thaw in the fridge and stir before using.
      • Make ahead: Grind the chutney without water, store in the fridge, and thin out with water just before serving to keep it fresh-tasting.
      • Avoid metal containers: Coconut can react with metal, so use glass or food-grade plastic.

      Serving Ideas

      Coconut chutney has a way of making everything it touches a little brighter. You’ll find yourself reaching for it far beyond the usual idli-dosa mornings.

      • With hot dosas – Crisp, fresh-off-the-pan dosas taste even better when you scoop them up with chilled chutney.
      • Next to idlis – Soft, fluffy idlis soak up all that creamy goodness beautifully.
      • With medu vadas – Dunk those golden, crispy vadas straight in for the best bite.
      • Spread on uttapam – Smear a little on top of your uttapam before folding for an extra layer of flavour.
      • Beside lemon rice – The cooling chutney is a lovely contrast to tangy, spiced lemon rice.
      • With pongal – Adds freshness to this warm, comforting dish.
      • Alongside upma – Makes a simple breakfast upma feel a little more special.
      • As a dip for snacks – Pair with pakoras, bhajiyas, or even crispy air-fried veggies.

      Customisation Ideas

      • Make it nutty: Blend in a few roasted cashews or peanuts for a richer, creamier texture.
      • Skip the tempering: For a lighter, milder version, serve without tempering—still delicious and very fresh-tasting.
      • Boost the tang: Add more tamarind or a squeeze of lemon juice for a sharper, more refreshing chutney.
      • Herb it up: Throw in a handful of fresh mint or coriander leaves for a herbal twist.
      • Play with texture: Grind coarsely for a rustic, slightly chunky chutney or blend until silky smooth for a refined finish.
      • Go roasted: Lightly toast the coconut before blending for a warm, nutty flavour.

      Coconut Chutney Variations

      • Onion Coconut Chutney – Sautéed onions blend in a subtle sweetness and earthy depth, making the chutney richer.
      • Tomato Coconut Chutney – Juicy ripe tomatoes add tang and freshness, giving the chutney a vibrant lift.
      • Tamarind Coconut Chutney – Extra tamarind enhances the chutney with a bold tartness that cuts through the creaminess.
      • Coriander Coconut Chutney – Fresh coriander leaves bring a garden-fresh aroma and a burst of herbal flavour.
      • Red Coconut Chutney – Dried red chillies create a smoky heat and a striking reddish colour for a spicier twist.
      an image of coconut chutney made served in a bowl placed over a banana leaf platter

      Did You Know?

      Coconut chutney might be a South Indian breakfast staple today, but its roots go way beyond the morning table. In coastal regions, freshly grated coconut was historically used to cool down fiery curries and balance spiced rice dishes. The word “chutney” comes from the Hindi word chatni, meaning “to lick” or “to taste with relish”, exactly how you’ll feel about this one. And here’s a fun kitchen fact: adding roasted chana dal not only gives the chutney body but also helps keep it from spoiling too quickly in warm weather.

      Coconut chutney is one of those quick, fresh, and instant recipes that makes everything on the plate taste better. A few basic ingredients, a quick blitz in the blender, and a sizzling tempering, and you’ve got something you’ll keep coming back to.

      Tried it out? Tag me on Instagram @my_foodstory—I’d love to see how you’re serving it, whether it’s with fluffy idlis, crispy dosas, or something entirely your own.

      Watch Coconut Chutney Recipe Video

      an image of coconut chutney made served in a bowl placed over a banana leaf platter
      Print

      Coconut Chutney

      This Coconut chutney recipe is quick, fresh, and the easiest way to turn a regular breakfast into something worth slowing down for.
      Course Dips, Dressings & Sauces
      Cuisine Indian, South Indian
      Diet Vegan, Vegetarian
      Prep Time 5 minutes
      Cook Time 5 minutes
      Total Time 10 minutes
      Servings 4 persons
      Calories 169kcal
      Author Richa

      Ingredients

      For chutney

      • 1 cup grated coconut
      • 1-2 green chillies
      • ½ inch ginger roughly chopped
      • 10 curry leaves
      • 2 tablespoons coriander leaves
      • 2 teaspoons tamarind paste
      • ½ teaspoon salt
      • ¼ cup + 2 tablespoons warm water

      For tempering

      • 1 teaspoon oil
      • ½ teaspoon mustard seeds rai
      • ¼ teaspoon cumin seeds jeera
      • ½ teaspoon urad dal
      • 15 curry leaves

      Instructions

      Grinding the chutney

      • Add all ingredients listed under chutney to a mixer and grind to a smooth paste. Transfer to a bowl.
        1 cup grated coconut, 1-2 green chillies, ½ inch ginger, 10 curry leaves, 2 tablespoons coriander leaves, 2 teaspoons tamarind paste, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ cup + 2 tablespoons warm water

      Tempering

      • Heat a small pan or tadka pan with oil, add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, urad dal & when the dal turns golden, add curry leaves & take off the heat. Stir and pour over the chutney.
        1 teaspoon oil, ½ teaspoon mustard seeds, ¼ teaspoon cumin seeds, ½ teaspoon urad dal, 15 curry leaves

      Video

      Notes

      1. Fresh coconut is used for best results. If you are using frozen coconut, bring it to room temperature before grinding else the coconut fat will separate.
      2. Warm water is added while grinding to get the smooth texture of the chutney.
      3. After grinding the chutney, you may adjust the consistency as per your liking by adding more water.
      4. Coconut chutney tastes the best when fresh. 

      Nutrition

      Calories: 169kcal | Carbohydrates: 9g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Sodium: 338mg | Potassium: 147mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 253IU | Vitamin C: 127mg | Calcium: 37mg | Iron: 1mg

      This article was researched and written by Harita Odedra.

      The post Coconut Chutney appeared first on My Food Story.

      White Dhokla | Khatta Dhokla | Idada Recipe

      15 August 2025 at 08:08

      Got leftover idli or dosa batter? Turn it into soft, spongy White Dhokla, a fermented, tangy, delicious  version of yellow dhokla – made easily with our homemade idli dosa batter! 

      white dhokla served on a banana leaf platter with chutney

      I need to get more people on the White Dhokla train because I think it’s one of those recipes that’s just SO underrated! I might even like it more than the traditional Gujarati yellow khaman dhokla if I’m being honest. This type of Dhokla is made without besan, and with a fermented batter – the hero here is actually my homemade idli dosa batter that gives the dhokla a gentle tang with the same light and fluffy dhokla texture that we love. 

      If you’ve got leftover idli dosa batter on hand, this recipe takes just 5 minutes of prep time and comes together in just 20 minutes, making it the perfect breakfast or evening snack that’s as tasty as it is convenient. 

      White Dhokla Ingredients

      Batter

      • Idli-dosa batter, green chilli, ginger, salt, crushed pepper 
      • Eno or fruit salt (see notes for substitute) – this gives us that airy and spongy texture that’s signature to dhokla 

      Tempering 

      • Cooking oil, mustard seeds, white sesame seeds, asafoetida powder (hing), curry leaves, coriander leaves, salt, sugar, lemon juice, water

      For Garnish

      • Coriander leaves, freshly grated coconut

      Richa’s Top Tips

      • Adding eno to the batter makes these dhoklas super fluffy – you can sub with baking soda and lemon juice in a pinch but don’t skip this!
      • Let the dhokla rest before cutting so it stays fluffy and doesn’t collapse

      Frequently Asked Questions

      What is white dhokla made of? 

      White dhokla is usually made from fermented rice and urad dal batter, just like idli or dosa batter. But this idada recipe cleverly repurposes it for a fluffy steamed snack.

      What is the difference between white and yellow dhokla?

      White dhokla (aka khatta dhokla) is made from rice and dal batter, and is tangy, soft, and lightly spiced.Yellow dhokla (aka khaman), on the other hand is made with besan (gram flour) and is a bit more dense and slightly sweet.

      Is white dhokla healthy?

      Yes! It’s steamed (not fried), naturally fermented, and low in oil. Plus, it’s gluten-free and easy to digest.

      Can I make this without fermentation?

      Fermentation adds flavor and softness, but if needed, you can try using store-bought batter and increase Eno slightly to compensate.

      Serving Ideas

      • Dunk this khatta dhokla into some green chutney
      • Have it with a cup of chai 
      • Pack it in your kiddo’s tiffins with tomato ketchup for an easy lunch 

      White Dhokla Customisation Ideas

      • Add some red chilli powder in place of/along with black pepper powder to the batter for slightly spicier dhoklas  
      • You can throw in some white sesame seeds to the tempering lends a lovely crunch and texture to the dhoklas 
      • Skip the tempering entirely for a lighter and slightly quicker tea time snack. These Gujarati khatta dhokla taste delicious either ways!

      Storage Tips

      • Store batter in the fridge and make fresh dhokla when needed. It’s important to only store the idli dosa batter and to add the remaining ingredients such as salt, sugar, eno just before steaming the dhokla 
      • Steamed dhokla keeps well for 2-3 days if stored in an airtight container in the fridge 
      • This dhokla is not freezer-friendly — texture changes when thawed
      • Reheat in a steamer or microwave with a splash of water
      • You can add fresh tempering to revive the flavor before serving

      Recipes With Idli Dosa Batter:

      freshly steamed white dhokla still in the steamer plate ready to be served

      This White Dhokla has got to be one of my favorite things to make with leftover idli dosa batter! Easy, fuss-free and so so delicious. Give it a try and I bet it’ll make it’s way to your weekly rotation ❤️

      If you liked this recipe, be sure to stay tuned for more as part of my Idli Dosa Batter series, and send me your recreations over on my IG @my_foodstory

      Watch White Dhokla Recipe Video

      white dhokla served on a banana leaf platter with chutney
      Print

      White Dhokla | Khatta Dhokla | Idada

      Spongy, soft, and slightly tangy, white dhokla is a delicious and insanely healthy evening snack that comes together in just 20 minutes with Idli Dosa Batter
      Course Breakfast, Snacks & Appetisers
      Cuisine Indian
      Diet Vegan, Vegetarian
      Prep Time 5 minutes
      Cook Time 15 minutes
      Total Time 20 minutes
      Servings 4 persons
      Calories 52kcal
      Author Richa

      Equipment

      • 1 steamer

      Ingredients

      • 1 ¼ cups idli-dosa batter
      • 1 green chilli crushed
      • ¾ inch ginger crushed
      • ¼ teaspoon salt
      • ½ teaspoon eno or fruit salt
      • ¼ teaspoon crushed pepper

      Tempering

      • 1 tablespoon cooking oil
      • 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
      • 1 teaspoon white sesame seeds
      • ¼ teaspoon asafoetida powder hing
      • 2 sprigs curry leaves
      • 1 tablespoon finely chopped coriander leaves
      • ¼ teaspoon salt
      • 1 teaspoon sugar
      • juice of ½ lemon
      • ¼ cup water

      For garnish

      • 1 tablespoon finely chopped coriander leaves
      • 1 tablespoon freshly grated coconut

      Instructions

      Prep steamer

      • Grease a round 12 inch steamer plate with oil. Heat the steamer or a pot with water. Place a stand inside and let the water come to a boil.

      Batter

      • Take the idli-dosa batter in a bowl, add crushed chilli, ginger, salt & mix to combine well. Once the water starts boiling, add fruit salt or Eno to the batter and mix gently till the batter is frothy.
        1 ¼ cups idli-dosa batter, 1 green chilli crushed, ¾ inch ginger crushed, ¼ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon eno or fruit salt

      Steaming dhoklas

      • Transfer the batter immediately to the greased steamer plate, sprinkle crushed pepper on top, keep on the stand, cover and steam on high heat for 10 minutes. To check if the Dhokla is cooked, insert a toothpick in the centre of the dhokla and if it comes out clean, it’s done. If it has batter on it, steam for a few more minutes until done. Rest for 5 minutes, remove from the steamer and set aside to cool.
        ¼ teaspoon crushed pepper

      Tempering

      • Heat oil in a pan, add mustard seeds and once they sputter, add sesame seeds, hing, curry leaves, salt, sugar and water. Be careful as the water will splutter. After 10 seconds, switch off the stove and squeeze lemon. Mix with a spoon.
        1 tablespoon cooking oil, 1 teaspoon mustard seeds, 1 teaspoon white sesame seeds, ¼ teaspoon asafoetida powder, 2 sprigs curry leaves, 1 tablespoon finely chopped coriander leaves, ¼ teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon sugar, juice of ½ lemon

      Serving Dhoklas

      • Demould dhoklas once cooled and cut into squares. Pour the tempering over the dhokla and let it soak in it for 5-10 minutes. Garnish with grated coconut & coriander leaves just before serving.
        1 tablespoon finely chopped coriander leaves, 1 tablespoon freshly grated coconut

      Video

      Notes

      1. Adding eno helps in making the dhoklas spongy, porous & light, so do not skip it.

      Nutrition

      Calories: 52kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 0.4g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Sodium: 467mg | Potassium: 20mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 33IU | Vitamin C: 12mg | Calcium: 11mg | Iron: 0.2mg

      This article was researched and written by Navya Khetarpal.

      The post White Dhokla | Khatta Dhokla | Idada Recipe appeared first on My Food Story.

      How to Make Uttapam | Uthappam

      8 August 2025 at 03:21

      Uttapam (savory South Indian pancakes) is like the comforting cousin of dosa – it’s thick, soft, and loaded with heaps of veggies. Crispy edges, fluffy center, it’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner.

      uttapams served with chutneys on a banana leaf platter

      Uttapam is up there on my list of favorite breakfasts to make – and for good reason! I can’t get enough of its fluffy texture when dunked into some piping hot sambar. And you can’t forget about that perfect crunch from the onions, tomatoes and chillies. Truly comfort food. 

      I told you guys that my Idli Dosa Batter recipe is my ultimate go-to and this is one of the reasons why! Beyond the classic idli and dosa – there’s so much more you can do with the batter and I’ll be sharing it all with you in my new series, starting with this uttapam recipe. 

      Ingredients for Uttapam

      Idli dosa batter: I have used my easy homemade batter, but store-bought works in a pinch   

      Salt: for seasoning

      Sugar: for balance and to make uttapams extra crispy 

      Onion: cut into half horizontally and dipped in oil to season the pan

      Veggies: I have used finely chopped onions, tomatoes, green capsicum, green chillies, and ginger along with grated carrots but you can use any veggies you like

      Idli podi: for an extra boost of flavor

      Cooking oil or ghee

      Butter

      How to make Uttapam

      1. Once your batter is ready, season it with salt and sugar and mix well. 
      2. Heat a non-stick pan or seasoned cast iron dosa tawa over medium heat. Once hot (you can sprinkle some water on the pan to check this, it should sizzle), pierce an onion with your fork, dip it in oil and rub this over the tawa. This will prevent the uttapam from sticking to the tawa. 
      3. Reduce the heat to low and pour a ladle of dosa batter in the center of the tawa and make a thick dosa without spreading it too much. 
      4. Add a tablespoon each of the toppings – onions, tomatoes, capsicum, carrots, ¼ teaspoon green chilli & ginger and sprinkle ½ teaspoon of idli podi. 
      5. Drizzle 1 teaspoon of ghee around the edges and ½-1 teaspoon of butter on top of the uttapam. Let this roast for 1-2 minutes on low heat till the base gets roasted well & turns golden brown. 
      6. Flip it over and roast for 1-2 minutes on low while gently pressing on the uttapam so that the veggies get roasted well. Roast the uttapam well on both sides and serve.

      Frequently Asked Questions

      What veggies can I add to my uttapam?

      You can mix and match any veggies of your liking! Onion, tomato, capsicum, grated carrot, grated beetroot, and corn are some of my favorites to add. 

      Why is my uttapam sticking to the pan?

      This usually happens if:
      – The pan isn’t hot enough when you start – make sure to sprinkle some water on the pan to check if it is hot enough, the water should sizzle and evaporate quickly
      – You’re using a new/unseasoned cast iron pan
      -The batter is too thin or too thick 
      Troubleshooting Tip: Always rub the pan with an onion dipped in oil before making each uttapam to prevent sticking.

      Can I use storebought idli dosa batter?

      Yes, you can! (Although I totally recommend making my homemade idli dosa batter) Just be sure to let the batter come to room temperature, and adjust salt if needed. For crispier uttapams, you can add a pinch of sugar and a few tablespoons of rava (sooji) to the batter.

      What is the difference between dosa and uttapam?

      Dosa is thin and crisp, and made by spreading the batter in concentric circles to form a large circle that is then folded or stuffed with masala and then folded. 
      Uttapam, on the other hand, is thick and fluffy, made without spreading the batter too much to form a circle with a diameter of 3 inches. This is then topped with veggies and roasted on both sides.
      Same batter, totally different textures!

      Why do I add salt only to the portion of the batter I’m using?

      Salt speeds up fermentation. If you’re storing leftover batter, adding salt to it may make it too sour by the next day. Always salt only what you’ll cook immediately.

      What’s the Best Pan for Uttapam?

      `Both non-stick and cast iron pan work, but here’s how they compare:

      Cast Iron Tawa 

      • Retains high heat well, which gives you a crisp, perfectly golden base
      • Naturally non-stick once well-seasoned
      • Durable — lasts forever with proper care
      • Needs maintenance (seasoning + cleaning properly) – but don’t worry, I have a proper guide on how to clean and season cast iron pans
      • Heavier and takes longer to heat up

      Best for: People who make uttapam/dosas regularly, love a crisp texture, and don’t mind the upkeep

      Non-Stick Tawa 

      • Easy to use and clean — great for beginners
      • Requires less oil
      • Lightweight and heats quickly
      • Doesn’t get as hot, so uttapam may be softer and not as golden in color 
      • Can wear out over time, especially with metal utensils

      Best for: Occasional uttapam/dosa makers or anyone who prefers low-maintenance cookware 

      Richa’s Top Tips

      • Use a well-fermented batter for fluffy texture

      Note: Use cold water for grinding to prevent the batter from heating up and affecting fermentation. I use ice cold water. Ferment in a warm spot — near a window, inside an oven with the light on, or wrapped in a towel.

      • Cook on low heat so the base roasts and the top cooks through
      • Don’t spread the batter too thin as you would when making dosa, this is the most key step. The batter in itself should be of a thick, pourable consistency 
      • When you pour the batter on the pan, it will end up spreading on its own. You can also spread it slightly here – we want to make a thick fluffy uttapam with a diameter of 2.5-3 inches 
      • It’s important to flip and roast the uttapam on both sides so that the veggies get roasted well 
      • Serve hot and fresh — uttapam is best when crisp on the edges and soft in the centre
      • Use a non-stick dosa tawa or an iron tawa. Personally, I love the results that an iron tawa gives but I know they need some extra maintenance so a non-stick dosa tawa works in a jiffy. For best results, don’t use the tawa for anything else except uttapam/dosas  to maintain the quality of both the uttapam/dosas and the tawa for a long long time. 
      • Make sure to check that your pan is hot before spreading the batter – you can do this by sprinkling a few drops of water on the pan. If the water sizzles and evaporates quickly, then the pan is hot enough. 

      Serving Ideas

      • Coconut chutney and sambar are classic sides
      • Serve with gunpowder (idli podi) and ghee for a quick bite – this recipe already tops the uttapam when podi but I like having some on the side as well

      Storage Tips

      • Fermented batter can be refrigerated (unsalted) for up to 3 days – I don’t recommend storing the cooked uttapams as these are best enjoyed fresh
      • You can freeze excess batter in small portions for up to a month
      • Always bring batter to room temperature before using 

      Recipes With Idli Dosa Batter

      uttapams served with chutneys on a banana leaf platter

      This uttapam recipe is never going to let you down – because you get that perfectly crisp yet fluffy texture every time! Enjoy it fresh off the tawa or pack it for your kiddo’s tiffin, this is a recipe that you’ll keep coming back to for sure. 

      If you liked this recipe, be sure to stay tuned for more as part of my Idli Dosa Batter series, and send me your recreations over on my IG @my_foodstory

      Watch Uttapam Recipe Video

      uttapams served with chutneys on a banana leaf platter
      Print

      Uttapam | Uthappam

      Uttapam (savory South Indian pancakes) is like the comforting cousin of dosa – it’s thick, soft, and loaded with heaps of veggies. Crispy edges, fluffy center, it’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner.
      Course Breakfast, Snacks & Appetisers
      Cuisine Indian, South Indian
      Diet Vegan, Vegetarian
      Prep Time 5 minutes
      Cook Time 5 minutes
      Total Time 10 minutes
      Servings 3 uttapams
      Calories 595kcal
      Author Richa

      Ingredients

      For idli dosa batter

      • 1 ½ cups idli rice or parboiled rice
      • ½ cup skinned urad dal
      • ¼ cup poha or flattened rice
      • ¼ cup cooked rice
      • 1 teaspoon methi seeds fenugreek seeds
      • 1 ½ cups water
      • 4-5 ice cubes

      For uttappam

      • 1 cup idli dosa batter
      • ¼ teaspoon salt
      • teaspoon sugar
      • 1 onion cut into half horizontally
      • 3 tablespoons finely chopped onions divided
      • 3 tablespoons finely chopped tomatoes divided
      • 3 tablespoons finely chopped green capsicum divided
      • 3 tablespoons grated carrots divided
      • ¾ teaspoon finely chopped green chillies divided
      • ¾ teaspoon finely chopped ginger divided
      • 1 ½ teaspoons idli podi divided
      • 2 teaspoons cooking oil or ghee
      • 1 ½ teaspoons butter divided

      Instructions

      Day 1 – morning

      • Wash and soak idli rice, urad dal, poha and methi seeds in enough water in a way that there is at least an inch of extra water over the rice and dal.
        1 ½ cups idli rice or parboiled rice, ½ cup skinned urad dal, ¼ cup poha, 1 teaspoon methi seeds

      Day 1 – evening

      • Once the grains have soaked for about 8 hours, drain the excess water from the bowl.
      • Grind the idli rice-urad dal mix with cooked rice until almost smooth with approx. 1 ½ cups water and 4-5 ice cubes in a mixer grinder. Add additional water if required. The consistency should be such that it can leave a thick coat on the back of a spoon and falls in a ribbon like consistency when poured with a ladle. The ground batter should feel very slightly gritty between your fingers.
        ¼ cup cooked rice, 1 ½ cups water, 4-5 ice cubes
      • Pour the batter into a bowl that’s large enough so that there is room for the batter to rise. Mix the batter with clean hands as shown in the video – this is an important step as it helps in the fermentation so please don’t skip it.
      • Cover the bowl and set aside to ferment. Leave it in a warm, dry place away from direct sunlight to ferment. Fermentation takes anywhere between 12-24 hours depending on the humidity and temperature at your place. The warmer it is, the faster it’ll ferment.

      Day 2 – morning or afternoon

      • Once fermented, the batter should have become almost 1.5 times its size with a slight dome shape and a wrinkle, bubbly layer on top. You should be able to smell a little sourness in the batter. This smell means it has fermented. If it is too sour, it has fermented too much! You can use a spoon to check the batter – the texture should be frothy with air bubbles. This will yield approx. 1.75 litres (6-7 cups) of batter.

      Prepping batter

      • take 1 cup of batter in a bowl, add salt, sugar and mix well.
        1 cup idli dosa batter, ¼ teaspoon salt, ⅛ teaspoon sugar

      Prepping tawa or pan

      • Heat a non-stick pan or a seasoned cast iron dosa tawa over medium heat. Once hot, pierce the onion half with a fork, dip in oil & rub on the tawa (like shown in the video). This prevents the uttappam from sticking to the tawa.
        1 onion

      Making Uttappam

      • Reduce the heat to low & pour one ladle of dosa batter in the center of the tawa and make a thick dosa without spreading much.
      • Add 1 tablespoon each of the toppings – onions, tomatoes, capsicum, carrots, ¼ teaspoon green chilli & ginger and sprinkle ½ teaspoon of idli podi.
        3 tablespoons finely chopped onions, 3 tablespoons finely chopped tomatoes, 3 tablespoons finely chopped green capsicum, 3 tablespoons grated carrots, ¾ teaspoon finely chopped green chillies, ¾ teaspoon finely chopped ginger, 1 ½ teaspoons idli podi

      Roasting Uttappam

      • Drizzle 1 teaspoon of ghee around the edges and ½-1 teaspoon of butter on top of the uttappam. let this roast for 1-2 minutes on low heat till the base gets roasted well & turns golden brown.
        2 teaspoons cooking oil or ghee, 1 ½ teaspoons butter
      • Flip it over and roast for 1-2 minutes on low while gently pressing on the uttappam so that the veggies get roasted well. Roast the uttappam well on both sides and serve.
      • Follow the same steps for making the rest of the uttappams.

      Video

      Notes

      1. To check if the pan is hot enough to make uttappam, sprinkle a few drops of water over the tawa & if it is ready, it should sizzle.
      2. Rubbing the tawa with onion dipped in oil prevents the uttappam from sticking to the tawa, so try not to skip it.
      3. For best results, uttappam should be cooked on low heat.
      4. Uttapams taste best when they are served hot
      5. Salt should be added ONLY to the quantity of batter you are using to avoid the batter from getting too sour. 
      6. If you are not using all the batter, store the remaining unsalted batter in an air tight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze the batter for up to a month. Bring the batter to room temperature before making uttappams.

      Nutrition

      Calories: 595kcal | Carbohydrates: 115g | Protein: 17g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 14mg | Sodium: 247mg | Potassium: 309mg | Fiber: 10g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 2729IU | Vitamin C: 16mg | Calcium: 77mg | Iron: 4mg

      This article was researched and written by Navya Khetarpal.

      The post How to Make Uttapam | Uthappam appeared first on My Food Story.

      Appe Recipe|Paniyaram|Paddu

      4 August 2025 at 03:35

      Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, these appe are going to be your snack-time best friend.

      Freshly cooked paniyaram served on a banana leaf platter with accompaniments

      Appe, paddu, paniyaram whatever you call it, is one of those recipes that feels like a reward for planning ahead. If you’ve got some idli or dosa batter in the fridge, you’re already halfway to golden, crispy, soft-in-the-middle deliciousness. These little rounds are comfort food, South Indian-style.

      I’ve been making appe for years, usually as a quick breakfast or something fun to sneak into lunchboxes. They’re great plain, but also super versatile if you want to throw in veggies, spices, or even cheese. One batch never lasts long at our place!

      Ingredients for Appe

      Here’s what you’ll need to make a basic batch of appe using idli or dosa batter:

      • Idli/Dosa Batter: Fermented batter works best, slightly sour and fluffy, it gives appe their signature light texture.
      • Veggies (optional): Finely chopped onions, carrots, capsicum, or grated coconut are great add-ins.
      • Tempering (optional but recommended): Mustard seeds, curry leaves, chopped green chillies, and ginger sautéed in oil for extra flavor.
      • Oil: Just a few drops per mold in the appe pan for crisp, golden edges.

      How to make Appe

      1. Prep the Batter: Use fermented idli/dosa batter straight from the fridge or bring it to room temperature. Stir in salt if not already added. (Here’s the recipe or scroll down to the recipe card)
      2. Add-ins (Optional): Mix in your chopped veggies or a quick tempering to boost flavor.
      3. Heat the Appe Pan: Grease each mold with a drop of oil and heat on medium.
      4. Cook the Appe: Spoon batter into each mold and cook covered for 2–3 minutes until the edges firm up. Flip and cook uncovered till golden and crisp on both sides.

      Richa’s Top Tips For The Best Appes

      • Use well-fermented batter: The slight sourness and airy texture from a properly fermented idli or dosa batter is what gives appe their signature fluffiness inside and crisp edges outside.
      • Rest the batter (if straight from fridge): Cold batter can yield dense appe. Let it sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes before cooking to get that light, airy texture.
      • Grease the pan well: Add a few drops of oil to each cavity of the appe pan before spooning in the batter. This helps create a golden crust and makes flipping easier.
      • Cook covered first, then crisp: Cover the pan while the first side cooks to help the batter steam and puff up. Once flipped, cook uncovered to crisp up the outsides.
      • Consistency of the batter: The ideal batter consistency for appe is medium to medium-thick, similar to idli batter or pancake batter. It should be thick enough to hold its shape when dropped into the appe pan but still pourable.
      Paniyaram battar scooped up in a spoon to show it's texture and consistency

      Frequently Asked Questions

      What is the difference between appam and paniyaram?

      Appam is a lacy, bowl-shaped fermented rice pancake, typically soft and spongy in the centre. Paniyaram (or appe) are bite-sized dumplings made from the same idli/dosa batter, but cooked in an appe pan with a crispy crust and soft inside.

      Why are my appe sticky on the inside?

      This usually happens when the batter is too thick or hasn’t come to room temperature before cooking. Another reason could be undercooking—make sure to cook covered first, then flip and crisp up the other side.

      Can I make appe without a paniyaram/appe pan?

      The appe pan really does help achieve the right shape and texture, but if you don’t have one, you can try using a mini muffin tray in the oven (though they won’t be quite the same!).

      Can I store leftover appe?

      Yes! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a pan or air fryer to bring back some of the crispiness.

      Can I make this with readymade idli dosa batter?

      You can, but the taste and texture is so much better when you use homemade dosa batter. 

      Are appe healthy? 

      Yes! they’re made from fermented rice and lentil batter, which boosts nutrient absorption and gut health, and since they’re pan-cooked with minimal oil, they’re light and easy to digest too.

      Which Appe Pan is Better – Cast Iron or Non-Stick?

      Choosing between a cast iron and non-stick appe pan depends on your cooking style and comfort level. Cast iron pans are a traditional choice, they heat evenly and give the appes a beautiful, crispy crust. Plus, cooking in cast iron adds a bit of iron to your diet naturally. But they do need regular seasoning and care to maintain their non-stick properties.

      On the other hand, non-stick appe pans are beginner-friendly and super convenient. They require less oil, are easier to clean, and are great when you’re short on time or cooking for kids. Just be sure to use soft utensils and avoid high heat to extend the life of the coating.

      If you’re just starting out, go for a good-quality non-stick pan. But if you’re up for a little extra effort and love that rustic crisp, a cast iron pan is totally worth it. 

      Storage Tips

      • Refrigeration: Let the appe cool completely before storing. Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for 2 days.
      • Freezing: Appe can be frozen too! Lay them out on a tray, freeze, then transfer to a ziplock bag. Reheat directly from frozen in the appe pan or air fryer.
      • Reheating: To retain the texture, warm them in an appe pan, air fryer, or oven, not the microwave, which can make them rubbery.

      Serving Ideas

      These little bites are super versatile and pair beautifully with all kinds of chutneys and sides.

      • Dip them in classic Coconut Chutney for a traditional South Indian combo.
      • Serve with Green Chutney if you’re leaning into North Indian flavours.
      • Create a breakfast thali with Idlis, Sambar, and appe for a hearty start to your day.
      • Snack on them with a side of Peanut Chutney, a creamy, nutty dip that’s incredibly satisfying.
      • Pack them into a lunchbox with Lemon Rice or Tamarind Rice for a fun and fuss-free meal.
      • For a South Indian brunch twist, serve them alongside Veggie Upma and chutneys for a mix of textures and flavours.

      Customisation Ideas

      • Spice it up: Add chopped green chillies, crushed pepper, or a spoonful of podi (gunpowder) to the batter.
      • Veggie-packed: Finely chopped onions, grated carrots, capsicum, cabbage, or even spinach can be added directly into the batter.
      • Cheesy twist: Stuff a tiny cube of cheese or grated mozzarella in the centre for a surprise melty bite.
      • South Indian masala style: Stir in a tadka of mustard seeds, curry leaves, and urad dal into the batter before cooking.
      • Sweet version: Add jaggery, mashed banana, and a hint of cardamom to the idli batter and cook as usual (It’s great for kids)

      What else can be made with dosa batter

      • Dhokla 
      • Idli
      • Dosa
      • Appe / Paniyaram
      • Mysore Masala
      • Uttapam
      • Dosa Waffle
      • Schezwan Idli Fry 

      I am going to share the recipes of all these dishes along with an easy one-pot sambar and coconut chutney over the next 11 days. So make sure to tune in! 

      Did You Know

      Appe (or paniyaram) is a popular South Indian snack that goes by many names across regions. It’s called paddu in Karnataka, ponganalu in Andhra Pradesh, and kuzhi paniyaram in Tamil Nadu. Traditionally made in cast iron appe pans over a wood fire, this snack has been adapted in modern kitchens using non-stick or even electric appe makers. Despite its humble look, it’s a versatile dish that reflects how South Indian food uses the same base ingredients (like fermented rice and lentils) in totally different, creative ways.

      Freshly cooked paniyaram served on a banana leaf platter with accompaniments

      If you’ve got idli or dosa batter at home, appe is honestly one of the easiest and most rewarding snacks you can whip up. Whether you keep them plain and classic or jazz them up with fillings and dips, they always deliver on flavour and comfort. Plus, they’re ideal for everything from breakfast to tea-time to school lunchboxes.

      Ready to try them? Tag me on Instagram @my_foodstory, I’d love to see what mix-ins you add or what you pair them with.

      Watch Appe Recipe Video

      Freshly cooked paniyaram served on a banana leaf platter with accompaniments
      Print

      Appe | Paniyaram | Paddu

      Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, these appe are going to be your snack-time best friend.
      Course Breakfast, Snacks & Appetisers
      Cuisine Indian, South Indian
      Diet Vegetarian
      Prep Time 5 minutes
      Cook Time 10 minutes
      Total Time 15 minutes
      Servings 25 appe
      Calories 15kcal
      Author Richa

      Equipment

      • 1 Appe pan

      Ingredients

      Appe batter mix

      • 1 ½ cups idli dosa batter MFS link
      • ¼ cup finely chopped capsicum
      • ¼ cup finely chopped carrots
      • ¼ cup finely chopped onions
      • ½ teaspoon finely chopped ginger
      • 1 green chilli finely chopped
      • 10 curry leaves finely chopped
      • ¼ + ⅛ teaspoon salt
      • ¼ teaspoon sugar

      Tempering / tadka

      • 1 teaspoon oil
      • ½ teaspoon mustard seeds rai
      • ¼ teaspoon cumin seeds jeera
      • ½ teaspoon chana dal
      • 1 teaspoon urad dal

      Other

      • 2-3 tablespoons sunflower oil or any neutral flavored oil

      Instructions

      Prepping appe batter mix

      • Take the idli dosa batter in a bowl. Add capsicum, carrots, onions, ginger, green chilli, curry leaves, salt, sugar and give a good mix.

      Tempering

      • Heat oil in a pan, add mustard seeds, cumin seeds and once they crackle, add chana dal, urad dal & roast on low heat for a few seconds till the dals turn light golden. Add the tempering to the appe batter and mix well.

      Making Appe

      • Heat appe pan & add a few drops of oil to each cavity. Using a spoon or ladle, pour the batter to fill the cavities almost to the top (as shown in the video). Cover with a lid and cook on low for 1-2 minutes until the base is firm and golden.
      • Using a skewer or spatula, turn over each appe and cook the other side without covering the pan. Cook on low to medium for 2-3 minutes on this side till they are golden and crisp from the outside. Remove and serve.
      • Repeat the same steps to make the rest of the appe.

      Video

      Notes

      1. Add oil to the appe cavity before making the appe as it avoids the appe sticking to the pan & also helps in roasting them well.
      2. Do not over fill the cavities as appe rise when cooked   
      3. Appe taste best when they are hot and fresh off the pan 

      Nutrition

      Calories: 15kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 0.1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 0.1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 0.001g | Sodium: 7mg | Potassium: 10mg | Fiber: 0.2g | Sugar: 0.3g | Vitamin A: 235IU | Vitamin C: 10mg | Calcium: 3mg | Iron: 0.1mg

      This article was researched and written by Harita Odedra.

      The post Appe Recipe|Paniyaram|Paddu appeared first on My Food Story.

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