Category: Easy Indian Recipes

Easy Indian Recipes for Every Occasion

Indian cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors, aromatic spices, and diverse dishes. While some may think that Indian cooking is complicated, there are numerous easy Indian recipes that you can prepare without spending hours in the kitchen. 

This guide will introduce you to a variety of easy Indian recipes that are both delicious and straightforward to make. From appetizers to main courses and desserts, these Indian food recipes will become staples in your culinary repertoire.

Easy Indian Appetizers

  1. Vegetable Samosas: These crispy and savory pastries are filled with a spiced mixture of potatoes and peas. They make for a great starter and are relatively simple to prepare with store-bought pastry sheets. Indian snacks that are sure to make every taste bud excited for more. 
  2. Chana Chaat: A tangy and spicy chickpea salad, Chana Chaat is an excellent appetizer that can be prepared in minutes. It’s made with boiled chickpeas, tomatoes, green chilies, and a variety of spices.
  3. Paneer Tikka: Marinated in yogurt and spices, paneer cubes are grilled to perfection. This is one of the easy Indian recipes that you can quickly prepare for a party or a family dinner.
  4. Aloo Tikki: These potato patties are flavored with spices and herbs, then shallow-fried until golden brown. Serve them with mint chutney for a delightful appetizer. One of the easy Indian street food recipes that is most tried in northern parts of India. 

Simple Indian Main Courses

  1. Palak Paneer: This spinach and cottage cheese curry is not only healthy but also easy to prepare. The creamy spinach sauce pairs perfectly with the soft paneer, making it a favorite among vegetarians.
  2. Chole Bhature: Chole (spiced chickpea curry) and Bhature (fluffy deep-fried bread) are a classic combination. Despite its restaurant-style taste, it is one of the Indian food recipes easy to recreate at home.
  3. Vegetable Biryani: A fragrant and flavorful rice dish, Vegetable Biryani can be made quickly using a pressure cooker or an Instant Pot. It’s a one-pot meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight.
  4. Dal Tadka: This daal recipe is a staple in Indian households. It involves cooking lentils with spices and then tempering them with ghee, garlic, and cumin seeds. It’s simple, nutritious, and pairs well with rice or roti.
  5. Aloo Gobi: This dry curry made with potatoes and cauliflower is spiced with turmeric, cumin, and coriander. It’s a quick and easy Indian recipe that’s perfect for a weekday meal.

Quick Indian Side Dishes

  1. Raita: A cooling yogurt-based side dish, Raita is made with yogurt, cucumber, mint, and spices. It’s perfect for balancing out spicy dishes.
  2. Jeera Rice: Flavored with cumin seeds, this simple rice dish is a perfect accompaniment to curries. It’s one of the Indian recipes easy to make and adds a fragrant touch to your meal.
  3. Baingan Bharta: Roasted and mashed eggplant cooked with tomatoes, and spices. This smoky-flavored dish is both easy and delicious.
  4. Kachumber Salad: A refreshing salad made with chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, and a sprinkle of lemon juice and chaat masala. It’s a great side dish for any Indian meal.

Easy Indian Desserts

  1. Gajar Halwa: This carrot-based dessert is made by simmering grated carrots with milk, sugar, and ghee. It’s garnished with nuts and cardamom, making it a comforting sweet treat.
  2. Kheer: A rice pudding made with milk, rice, and sugar, flavored with cardamom and garnished with nuts. It’s one of the easy Indian food recipes that’s perfect for any festive occasion.
  3. Rasgulla: Soft and spongy cheese balls soaked in sugar syrup. This dessert can be made quickly with store-bought paneer.
  4. Mango Lassi: A refreshing drink made with yogurt, mango pulp, and a touch of cardamom. It’s perfect for cooling down on a hot day.

FAQs

Q: What are some easy Indian recipes for beginners? 

A: Some easy Indian recipes for beginners include Chana Chaat, Aloo Tikki, Dal Tadka, and Jeera Rice. These recipes are simple to follow and don’t require advanced cooking skills.

Q: Can I make Indian food without a lot of spices? 

A: Yes, many Indian food recipes can easily be made with a minimal number of spices. For example, Jeera Rice and Raita require only a few common spices like cumin and coriander.

Q: Are there quick Indian recipes for weeknight dinners? 

A: Absolutely! Easy Indian recipes like Vegetable Biryani, Palak Paneer, and Aloo Gobi are perfect for weeknight dinners as they can be prepared quickly and offer a balanced meal.

Q: What are some easy Indian desserts I can try? 

A: Easy Indian food recipes for desserts include Kheer, Gajar Halwa, and Mango Lassi. These desserts are straightforward to make and are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Q: How can I make Indian food healthier? 

A: To make Indian food healthier, use less oil, incorporate more vegetables, and opt for whole grains like brown rice or whole wheat roti. You can also use low-fat dairy products and lean proteins.

Conclusion

Exploring easy Indian recipes doesn’t have to be daunting. With these easy Indian food recipes, you can enjoy the rich and diverse flavors of Indian cuisine without spending too much time in the kitchen. 

From appetizers and main courses to desserts, these Indian food recipes easy are perfect for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the best of Indian cooking. 

Enjoy creating these dishes and sharing them with your loved ones! Explore more recipes on Manjula’s Kitchen and discover the joy of cooking nutritious and delicious food.

  • Gur Para (Punjabi Sweet Snack)

    Gur Para (Punjabi Sweet Snack)

    A plate of crispy Gur Para, a traditional Indian sweet snack made with jaggery and flour.

    Gur Para, Punjabi Sweet Snack

    Gur Para is a traditional Punjabi treat. This is made in preparation for festivals such as Holi, Makarshakrantri, and Diwali. Gur Para makes for a great homemade gift because of its long shelf life. It can be stored for up to 2 months in an airtight container. This is a super simple recipe that only requires a few ingredients.  
    5 from 1 vote
    Prep Time 10 minutes
    Cook Time 30 minutes
    Total Time 40 minutes
    Course Snack
    Cuisine Indian
    Servings 6 people

    Ingredients
     
     

    For Dough

    • 1 cup all-purpose flour plain flour, maida
    • 2 Tbsp sooji fine samolina
    • 2 Tbsp oil
    • 1/3 cup water, use as needed

    For Syrup

    • 3/4 cup gur jaggery
    • 1 tsp oil
    • 1/4 cup water

    Instructions
     

    Making Para

    • Mix flour, sooji, and oil, and mix it well to get consistency of breadcrumb. Add water as needed to make firm but smooth dough. Cover with damp cloth and set aside at least for ten minutes.
    • Knead the dough for another minute and divide in two equal parts.
    • Take each part of the dough and make a flat ball shape. Roll them into 8-inch circles and thickness of salted crackers.
    • Cut each of the rolled dough into about half inch wide and 2 inch long pieces. Note: you can cut them in your desire shape.
    • Heat the oil in a frying pan on medium heat. The frying pan should have about 1 inch of oil. To check if the oil is ready, put little piece of dough in the oil. The dough should make the oil sizzle and come up slowly.
    • Fry the paras until both sides are light golden-brown. Let them cool off to room temperature before coating them.

    Making Sugar Syrup

    • Put the water and gur in a frying-pan and bring to a boil on medium heat. Keep stirring till gur is dissolve, syrup should be about 1 thread, to check the right consistency of syrup drop the syrup in cold water and you should be able to roll into ball. Close the heat.
    • Put all the paras to the syrup and mix it well, making sure all the paras are coated with syrup. Keep stirring every few minutes and keep separating them. After they are just warm, take them out on a greased plate, making sure that paras are not clumped together.
    • Allow them to cool. Gur paras can be stored for several weeks in airtight container.

    Notes

    Notes: If Syrup consistency is not right paras will be sticky, if paras are little sticky let them dry for longer.
    You will also like to see these recipes they are good for gifting and easy to make Moong dal Ladoo, Apple Coconut Burfi, Besan Save
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
  • Make Perfect Chapati, Roti

    Make Perfect Chapati, Roti

    For over 12 years, I’ve been making cooking videos, and I think it’s finally time to address some of the most frequently asked questions about a staple in almost every Indian meal: Chapati (also known as Roti or Phulka). I often get questions like why Chapatis turn out dry or hard, why they’re challenging to roll, or why the dough sticks to the rolling pin or surface.

    So, here are some essential tips for making perfect Chapati. This dough also works great for whole wheat Chapati and Parathas.

    When it comes to Chapati, the dough is key. Generally, you’ll need about 1 cup of whole wheat flour and around 1/2 cup of water (adding water as needed). The goal is a soft dough that doesn’t stick to your fingers, which makes it easier to roll and results in soft Chapatis. Knead the dough well for around 2 minutes, let it rest for 10 minutes, and then give it one final knead before rolling. A good test: press the dough with your fingertip; if the indentation bounces back slightly, your dough is perfect. If it doesn’t, the dough may be too firm, which can lead to dry Chapatis.

    The skillet temperature is another important factor often overlooked. Here’s an easy test: sprinkle a few drops of water on the skillet—if it sizzles, you’re ready to cook. A heavier skillet is ideal for even cooking and can help your Chapati puff up like a balloon.

    You can also refrigerate the dough for 2-3 days. To store it properly, lightly oil the dough and the container. Use a spacious bowl with a tight-fitting cover for best results.

    These tips will help you master the art of making soft, fluffy Chapatis. With a little practice, they’ll become second nature!

  • Pizza Paratha (Stuffed Vegetable Cheese Paratha)

    Pizza Paratha (Stuffed Vegetable Cheese Paratha)

    Pizza Paratha

    Pizza Paratha (Stuffed Vegetable Cheese Paratha)

    Everyone enjoy pizza. Pizza has become a universal food enjoyed by all. Pizza paratha is perfect for the times when you want to enjoy homemade pizza. This is also quick and easy recipe. Personalize your pizza with your favorite toppings. You can serve this for lunch, snack, or especially good for kids lunch box. This is also my grandkids favorite.
    4.20 from 5 votes
    Prep Time 10 minutes
    Cook Time 10 minutes
    Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
    Course Snack
    Cuisine Indian
    Servings 2 people

    Ingredients
      

    For Paratha Dough

    • 1 cup all-purpose flour maida or plain flour
    • 1/4 tsp salt
    • 1/4 tsp sugar
    • 1/2 tsp yeast
    • 2 Tbsp oil
    • 1/3 cup lukewarm water use as needed

    For Filling

    • 1-1/2 Tbsp tomato paste
    • 1/4 tsp salt
    • 1/2 tsp chili flakes adjust to taste
    • 1/2 tsp dry basil
    • 1/2 tsp dry oregano
    • 1/2 cup bell pepper finely chopped
    • 1/2 cup mushrooms finely chopped
    • 1 jalapeno pepper finely chopped, adjust to taste
    • 1-1/4 cup mozzarella cheese shredded

    Also need

    • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour maida or plain flour for rolling the paratha
    • 2 Tbsp of oil to cook parathas

    Instructions
     

    • In a bowl mix the flour, salt, yeast, and oil, add the water as needed to make soft and pliable dough. Cover the dough and set aside for about one hour.
    • Squeeze the chopped bell peppers to remove the extra water.
    • In a bowl mix all the ingredients for filling, bell pepper, mushrooms tomato paste, salt, chili flakes, basil, oregano, jalapeno, and cheese, mix it well.
    • Knead the dough and divide in two equal parts. Roll each part of the dough in smooth ball.
    • Roll one part of the dough into about six-inch diameter, use dry flour as needed to roll.
    • Place half a cup of filling in the center. Pull the edges of the dough to wrap it around the filling, making sure it is covered from all around.
    • Meanwhile heat the skillet on medium low heat, skillet should not be very hot, otherwise paratha will not cook through. Heavy skillet works best.
    • Lightly sprinkle the dry flour on the surface you will roll the paratha. Press the filled patty lightly from both sides, with your fingers. Now using a rolling pin, roll the paratha about eight-inch in diameter. If the dough sticks to the rolling pin or rolling surface, lightly dust the parathas with dry flour.
    • Oil the skillet generously, and place the paratha on the skillet. Cook the paratha for 2-3 minutes and flip the paratha. Paratha should be golden brown. It is important to cook paratha on low heat.
    • Again brush the paratha with oil all around and flip it again in about 2 minutes. Paratha should be golden brown both sides for crispness. Paratha should take about five minutes to cook nicely.
    • Take out the pizza paratha over wire rack to keep them from getting soggy.

    Suggestions

    • You can make these pizza parathas in any combinations of filling. When I make for my grand kids I don’t add any peppers.

    Notes

    You will also enjoy Vegetable Pasta, Vegetable Hakka noodles, Gobi Manchurian, and Veggie Hash Browns.
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
  • Watermelon Cooler – Lemonade

    Watermelon Cooler – Lemonade

    Watermelon Cooler (Lemonade)

    Watermelon Cooler – Lemonade

    Watermelon cooler is a refreshing summertime drink. Made with cubed watermelon, ginger ale, lemon juice and a few spices, it is sure to please. 
    No ratings yet
    Course Beverages
    Cuisine Indian
    Servings 2 people

    Ingredients
      

    • 2 cups watermelon cut in small pieces
    • 1-1/2 tablespoons lemon juice
    • 2 teaspoons ginger juice
    • 2 tablespoons sugar
    • 1/2 teaspoon black salt
    • Pinch of black pepper powder
    • Approx. 3/4 cup ginger ale
    • About 1 cup ice cubes

    Instructions
     

    • In a blender place watermelon, lemon juice, ginger juice, sugar, pepper and salt together and blend until it is smooth.  Add ice and blend it again until ice is crushed.
    • Pore the drink in a glass filling the glass up to 3/4 and add ginger ale, serve immediately.
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
  • Eggless Chocolate Cake

    Eggless Chocolate Cake

    Eggless Chocolate Cake

    Eggless Chocolate Cake

    This is a great recipe of delicious dessert, moist and eggless cake to satisfy your chocolate cravings and sweet tooth. Adults and kids alike will be delighted with this yummy cake. A cake that is like a sweet snack in every bite and is kids favorite for having chocolate in it.
    No ratings yet
    Course Dessert
    Cuisine Indian
    Servings 16 pieces

    Ingredients
      

    • 1-1/2 cup all purpose flour (plain flour, maida)
    • 2 tablespoons corn starch, or arrowroot
    • 1/4 cup coco powder
    • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
    • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
    • 1/4 teaspoon salt
    • 1 cup silky tofu ( soft tofu will also work)
    • 1/2 cup unsalted butter at room temperature
    • 1 cup sugar
    • 1 tablespoon vanilla essence
    • 1 tablespoon vinegar, I am using rice vinegar
    • Approx. 1/3 cup milk

    For Chocolate Ganache

    • 1/2 cup chocolate chips, semi-sweet
    • 1/3 cup heavy cream
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla essence

    Instructions
     

    For Ganache

    • Place chocolate in a bowl and add the vanilla essence. Bring the heavy cream to boil and turn off the heat. Pour the cream over chocolate and stir until chocolate completely dissolve and become glossy. As ganache cool it will become thick.

    For Cake

    • Preheat the oven at 350 degree F
    • Grease 8×8 inches cake pan. Set aside.
    • All the dry ingredients except sugar, sift together flour, corn starch, coco powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt, three times to make sure all the ingredients are well mixed. Set aside.
    • With the electric mixer on low speed mix the butter, sugar, vinegar and vanilla until it is smooth this should take about two minutes. Add the tofu to butter mixture and mix on low speed for about two minutes. This will have a curdle kind of texture.
    • Slowly add the dry mix, mix with spatula all the ingredients should be mixed well. Add milk as needed, batter should be of thick consistency but pourable.
    • Pour the mixture into a greased baking pan evenly. Place the pan on middle oven rack and bake it for 35 minutes or until knife inserted in centre comes out clean.
    • Allow cake to cool for about 15 minutes in pan and then run a butter knife around the edges of cake. Place a wire cooling rack over top of pan. Use both hands to hold the rack in place while flipping the cake over onto the rack. Set the rack down and gently tap on the bottom of pan until the cake is released. Cool completely before slicing the cake.
    • Pour the ganache over the cake or individual cake pieces.
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

  • Dabeli Spicy Potato Sandwich

    Dabeli Spicy Potato Sandwich

    Dabeli Spicy Potato Sandwich

    Dabeli Spicy Potato Sandwich

    Dabeli is a popular snack on the go, with street vendor in Mumbai. Pav (small burger buns) filled with spicy potatoes and topped with peanuts, chutney, fine sev and pomegranate. Enjoy this delicious sandwich;
    No ratings yet
    Course sandwich
    Cuisine Indian
    Servings 4 people

    Ingredients
      

    Spice Mix

    • 1 red chili dry
    • 1 teaspoon coriander (dhania) seeds
    • 2 cloves (laung / lavang)
    • 1/2 inch cinnamon (dalchini)
    • 1/2 teaspoon cumin (jeera) seeds
    • 4 black pepper

    Filling

    • 1 cup potato boiled and mashed (aloo)
    • 2 tablespoons oil
    • 1/2 teaspoon cumin (jeera) seeds
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    • Spice mix which we prepared that should be about 1 tablespoon
    • 1 tablespoon tamarind paste (imli)
    • 3 teaspoons sugar
    • 1/2 cup water

    Also Need

    • 4 buns
    • 2 tablespoons butter for cooking

    To Serve

    • 1/4 cup roasted and crushed peanuts
    • 1/4 cup fine sev available in Indian grocery stores
    • 1/4 cup pomegranate (anar) seeds, if not available red or green grapes cut into small pieces
    • 3 tablespoons cilantro chutney (dhania chutney)

    Instructions
     

    • For Dabeli Masala: roast all the ingredients red chili, coriander, cloves, cumin seeds, cinnamon and black pepper, in a small pan on the medium heat for two minutes, spices will become very aromatic. Grind the spices to fine powder. This should make about one tablespoon.
    • For Filling: heat the oil in pan on medium heat moderately. Add cumin seeds when seeds crack add potatoes spice mix, salt and tamarind paste, mix it well.
    • Add about half cup of water mix it and bring to boil, cook on low heat for about two minutes. Mix should be consistency of thick paste. Set aside.

     How to Proceed

    • Slice the buns into halves and toast the buns over skillet on medium heat using little butter both sides.
    • Over one half of the bun put about ¼ cup of the filling, top it with chutney, pomegranate, peanuts and fine sev (you can find in Indian grocery stores), sandwich with the other half of the bun.
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

    Dabeli Recipe: A Spicy Potato Sandwich 

    Dabeli is a beloved Indian street food that tantalizes taste buds with its spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors. Originating from the state of Gujarat, dabeli has gained popularity across the country for its unique taste and satisfying texture. This dabeli recipe offers a delightful culinary journey, combining aromatic spices, creamy potatoes, crunchy peanuts, and a medley of chutneys sandwiched between soft buns. Let’s delve into the art of making this irresistible dabeli.

    Step 1: Making the Dabeli Masala 

    To begin, let’s prepare the dabeli masala. In a dry skillet over medium heat, roast the coriander seeds, cumin seeds, cloves, cinnamon stick, dried red chilies, fennel seeds, and peppercorns until fragrant. Allow the spices to cool, then grind them into a fine powder using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle. This aromatic dabeli masala forms the heart of the dabeli’s flavorful filling.

    Step 2: Preparing the Potato Filling 

    Next, let’s create the savory potato filling. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat and add mustard seeds. Once the mustard seeds splutter. Now, incorporate the mashed potatoes into the pan along with the prepared dabeli masala. Mix well to ensure the potatoes are evenly coated with the spices. Drizzle in the tamarind chutney for a hint of tanginess and season with salt to taste. Allow the filling to cook for a few minutes until the flavors meld together beautifully.

    Step 3: Assembling the Dabeli 

    Now comes the exciting part – assembling the dabeli sandwiches! Slice the burger buns in half and lightly toast them with a smear of butter on a hot griddle until golden brown. Spread a generous layer of the prepared potato filling onto the bottom half of each bun. Sprinkle roasted peanuts, pomegranate seeds, and chopped coriander leaves on top for added crunch and freshness. Drizzle a little more tamarind chutney over the filling for an extra burst of flavor. Finally, cover the sandwiches with the remaining bun halves and press gently to secure the layers.

    Step 4: Serving and Enjoying 

    Once assembled, dabeli sandwiches are ready to be served and savored! For the authentic street food experience, garnish each sandwich with a generous sprinkle of sev – crispy chickpea flour noodles that add a delightful crunch. Serve dabeli sandwiches hot with extra chutneys on the side for dipping, if desired. These irresistible treats are perfect for picnics, parties, or simply as a satisfying snack any time of day.

    Variations and Tips: 

    • For a twist on the classic recipe, try substituting the potato filling with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) or mixed vegetables for a vegetarian option.
    • Experiment with different types of chutneys, such as mint chutney or to customize the flavor profile according to your preference.
    • To make dabeli spicier, add chopped green chilies or a dash of chili powder to the potato filling.
    • For a richer taste, spread a layer of butter on the toasted buns before assembling the sandwiches.

    Benefits of Dabeli: 

    • Dabeli is a wholesome snack that provides energy and satisfies hunger cravings, making it ideal for a quick meal or on-the-go snack.
    • Potatoes, the main ingredient in dabeli, are a good source of carbohydrates, fiber, and essential nutrients like vitamin C and potassium.
    • The combination of spices in dabeli masala not only enhances the flavor of the dish but also offers various health benefits, including aiding digestion and boosting metabolism.

    FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

    Q: Can I make dabeli masala in advance?

    A: Yes, you can prepare dabeli masala in large batches and store it in an airtight container for future use. This allows for quick and convenient assembly whenever the craving strikes.

    Q: Can I adjust the spice level of dabeli according to my taste preferences?

    A: Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the amount of dabeli masala or add more/less chili powder to suit your preferred spice level. You can also control the heat by choosing mild or spicy chutneys.

    Other Recipes on Manjula’s Kitchen (H2)

    If you’re looking to explore more Indian recipes, appetizers, beverages, and desserts, be sure to check out the following links on Manjula’s Kitchen. Here are some links to recipes on Manjula’s Kitchen official website:

    Paneer Tikka Masala Recipe

    Chana Chaat (Spicy Chickpea Salad) Recipe

    Pav Bhaji (Spicy Vegetable Hash with Buns) Recipe

    Raj Kachori (Crunchy Chaat) Recipe

    Vegetable Biryani Recipe

    These recipes should offer you a flavorful experience straight from Manjula’s Kitchen.

  • Spinach Couscous Salad

    Spinach Couscous Salad

    Spinach Couscous Salad

    Spinach Couscous Salad

    There's nothing like a fresh salad. They are healthy and contrary to popular belief they can be quite filling and extremely satisfying! Spinach Couscous Salad is made with fresh spinach, arugula, couscous, sliced red grapes, cheese crumbles, pecans and my special house-dressing!
    No ratings yet
    Course Salad
    Cuisine Indian
    Servings 2 people

    Ingredients
      

    • 1/2 cup couscous
    • 1 tablespoon oil
    • 1/4 teaspoon salt
    • 2 cups spinach, steamed removed and roughly chopped
    • 2 cups arugula roughly chopped
    • 1/4 cup pecans roasted and roughly chopped
    • 1/2 cup seedless red grapes cut in half
    • 1/2 cup pear cut into bite size pieces
    • 3 tablespoons feta cheese crumbled
    • 2/3 cup water

    Dressing

    • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    • 2 teaspoons sugar
    • ½ teaspoon salt
    • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
    • ½ teaspoon mustard (rai) powder
    • 1 teaspoon ginger juice*

    Instructions
     

    • For dressing: add all the dressing ingredients together mix it well making sure sugar is dissolved. Set aside. * To make ginger juice shred the ginger using fine shredder or zester, and squeeze the juice with fingers.
    • Boil the water in a saucepan over medium high heat with oil and salt. Add couscous mix it, cover the pan and turn off the heat. Couscous should be ready in about 5-6 minutes, fluff couscous with a fork. Set aside.
    • Toss spinach, arugula, couscous, pecans, and grapes together pour the dressing over and toss, sprinkle the feta cheese.
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

  • Meethi Matri (Indian Sweet Cracker)

    Meethi Matri (Indian Sweet Cracker)

    Meethi Matri

    Meethi Matri (Indian Sweet Cracker)

    Meethi matries are delightful crispy and sweet snack made during festivals like Holi and Diwali. You can also serve them as biscuit or cookie. Fennel and cardamom gives very nice and sweet flavor to them.
    No ratings yet
    Course Dessert
    Cuisine Indian
    Servings 14 Meethi Matri

    Ingredients
      

    • 1 cup all purpose flour (maida, plain flour)
    • 1 tablespoon sooji (rava, semolina)
    • 1/4 teaspoon salt
    • 1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds crushed
    • 2 tablespoon oil
    • Approx. 1/3 cup of lukewarm water
    • Oil to fry

    Syrup

    • 3/4 cup sugar
    • 1/4 cup water

    Garnish

    • 1/2 teaspoon crushed cardamom
    • 2 teaspoons pistachios crushed

    Instructions
     

    • Mix flour, sooji, salt, fennel seeds and oil in a bowl. Add water as needed to make soft dough. Don’t knead the dough. Cover the dough with a damp cloth. Let it rest at least 15 minutes.
    • Divide the dough into 14 equal parts. Rolling the dough between your palms form into balls.
    • Roll the dough balls into three inch circles. Prick each matri with a fork 8-10 places on both sides. This will prevent matri not to puff when frying.
    • Heat at least one inch of oil in a frying pan over medium heat. To check if oil is ready put a little piece of dough in the oil. It should make oil lightly sizzle, if dough float instantly oil is too hot.
    • Fry a few matri at a time. Fry the matries until both sides are a light golden-brown. It should take six to eight minutes. If the matries are fried on high heat, they will not be cooked inside.
    • Take them out over paper towel so it can absorb the extra oil.
    • For syrup, in a sauce pan add water, and sugar over medium heat, bring it to a boil. Let it boil for about 2 minutes until syrup is sticky, on candy thermometer it should be 230 degree.
    • Dip the matri one at a time into the syrup making sure it is coated with syrup all around.
    • Place the matries on a wire rack to allow the extra syrup drain or over greased plate.
    • Garnish the matries with cardamom and sliced pistachios while the matries are still moist with syrup.
    • Matries will be dry in an hour.
    • Matries can be stored in airtight container up to a month.
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

  • Almond Brittle (Almond Chikki)

    Almond Brittle (Almond Chikki)

    Almond Brittle

    Almond Brittle (Almond Chikki)

    Almond brittle also known as Chikki in India this is quick and easy recipe to make. This old fashioned candy every body will enjoy a tasty sweet savory snack that is most popular during winters.
    No ratings yet
    Course Dessert
    Cuisine Indian
    Servings 12 oz

    Ingredients
      

    Ingredients:

    • 2 tablespoons butter
    • 1 cup sugar
    • 1/8 teaspoon salt
    • 1/2 cup sliced almonds
    • 1 tablespoons sesame seeds roasted

    Instructions
     

    Method

    • Grease about 8×10 cookie sheet and keep aside.
    • In a heavy bottom sauce pan, over medium high heat melt the butter, then add sugar, and salt.
    • Keep stirring the sugar continuously till sugar start melting and changing the color to light brown. Turn off the heat as soon it comes to golden brown in color. This should take 4-5 minutes. Note: when sugar starts melting it changes the color very quickly and it can easily burn.
    • Add almonds and sesame seeds, stir quickly. Pour over the greased sheet and spread evenly.
    • After brittle comes to room temperature brake them in pieces.
    • Store them in air tight container.

    Notes

    Suggestions
    1. Almond Brittle makes a delicious homemade gift. Pack it in a jar or candy bag.
    2. Garnish ice cream and kheer to give a gourmet look with few pieces of Brittle.
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!