New Beginnings: Cooking in a new Home

Nothing reminds me of home like the aroma of freshly chopped coriander and spices sizzling in the saute pan.

Carrots and Moong Curry and Beetroot Raita served with chapati

Moving to a new city can be unnerving. As I mentioned in my first post of the year, I got married recently and moved to New York.

I unpacked and organized the kitchen in my new home to my liking with my kitchen essentials: utensils, pans, and my Kitchen Aid Stand Mixer. I also brought the other essentials such as ready-to-use sauces, spices, spice mixtures, and herb plants etc, so I can enjoy my favorite dishes in my new home. 

I whipped out my newly filled spice box with garam masala, turmeric, chilli powder, curry leaves, etc and GOT COOKING. I love making raitas because they are so easy to make. And my husband loves moong, so I made Carrots and Moong curry and Beetroot Raita as the vegetable dishes and we ate them with chapati and rice.

Here's to trying new dishes and sharing my experience with you all!  

Time for Reflection and Renewal

Happy New Year everyone!!

Date and Almond Laddu

I always take time to reflect on the past year and look to the new year for renewal. This past year so much has happened that I am truly grateful for. My toastmasters club (Open Door Toastmasters) elected me club President for the 2017-2018 year, I became Area Director (for 5 Toastmasters clubs in District 83), and got married to my longtime friend and college classmate, Michael. I'm also thankful for my parents and good friends who always supported me.

We wanted to start off the new year with a healthy, sweet treat: Date and Almond Laddu (balls). Below are the ingredients and instructions on how to make this yummy treat; enjoy anytime of the year.


Ingredients
- 10 oz / 285g Pitted dates
- 2/3 cup Almonds
- 2/3 cup Milk Mava powder
- 2 Tbsp ghee or melted butter
- 3 to 4 drops of Pure Vanilla extract

Procedure
In a food processor, add dates, almonds and blend them coarsely (approx. 6 to 8 pulses). Next add mava powder, ghee and vanilla extract. Pulse again 3 to 4 times until all ingredients are blended well. Remove the mixture from the jar and make 1" round balls or laddu. Mixture makes about 15 to 18 laddus.

Quick Tips:
1) If desired, roll the laddus in dry coconut. Food coloring can be added to the coconut powder for festive appeal.
2) If milk mava powder is not readily available, you can also use coconut milk powder.

Wishing all a very happy and prosperous new year. How did you celebrate the new year? Please share your stories with us.