Quick Meals for Busy Families
Quick Meals for Busy Families
Quick Meals for Busy Families
Christmas always stirs up warm memories from my childhood—visiting friends to marvel at their beautifully decorated cribs, waiting for and listening to the carols, and, most importantly, indulging in plum cakes. Yes, that’s what we call a fruitcake in Kerala. Every friend and family visit were accompanied by a plum cake, and despite the abundance, we never got tired of its delightful taste. As I grew older and started my own family, we also started …
Asha GUpdated on Leave a Comment on Cauliflower Pakodas: Simple Snacks and Beautiful Memories2 min readRainy days call for something warm, crispy, and utterly satisfying. When the weather turned gloomy today, my family craved a comforting snack to pair with steaming cups of tea. And what better choice than Cauliflower Pakodas, or fritters, made from a fresh head of cauliflower I had picked up at the local market? Everyone loved the idea, and soon, we were all in the kitchen, busy preparing this irresistible treat. From separating florets to frying …
When I think of Kesari, I’m instantly transported back to memories from my primary school days. You might find this unusual, but my first taste of this delicious, saffron-colored dessert came at a school picnic. During snack time, our teachers surprised us with warm, soft Kesari. I took one bite, and I was hooked! Years later, I found myself captivated by this sweet dish again when a dear friend brought pineapple Kesari to the work. …
Shakshuka, a beloved North African and Middle Eastern breakfast, traditionally consists of poached eggs simmered in a rich tomato sauce with peppers, onions, and spices. It’s a hearty and flavorful meal perfect for breakfast or brunch. My twist on this classic is a Mexican shakshuka
Today, I’m sharing one of my favorite childhood snacks—Aval Vilayichathu, flattened rice flakes mixed in jaggery syrup. Growing up, this sweet snack was a big part of our holidays. All of us cousins would gather together in one of our homes to spend the holidays. My mom or aunts would prepare this for evening tea to feed all of our hungry bellies. Earlier today, while looking through some old photos, I was reminded of those …
Unniappam, small sweet rice dumplings, is a popular snack and dessert in Kerala. Though its exact origin remains unclear, many believe Unniappam originated as a religious offering, or prasadam, in temples. Cooks prepare it using rice flour, jaggery (unrefined sugar), ripe bananas, and fry it in a mix of oil and ghee. The optional addition of sesame seeds and fried coconut pieces enhances its flavor. Typically, very ripe Palayamkodan bananas, a small and sweet variety …
There’s something joyful about sitting down to a colorful bowl of fruit salad, isn’t there? For me, it’s one of those go-to snacks that feels like a sweet treat. Whether it’s the middle of a busy day or a quiet weekend breakfast, this refreshing fruit salad brings together vibrant flavors and textures that are both satisfying and nourishing. A fruit salad is one of the simplest ways to enjoy a rainbow of flavors and textures, …
Avial is one of the most iconic and inevitable side dishes served in any Kerala meals. It’s not only a favorite in my household but also a brilliant way to add more vegetables to your diet! A delicious mix of various vegetables like yam, plantain, carrots, and drumsticks, this dish is bound together by a luscious coconut mixture and tangy curd (yogurt) for flavor. The origins of Avial trace back to the great epic Mahabharata, …
Gothambu Pradhaman also called as Gothambu Payasam is a classic dessert in Kerala, made with ingredients that every household has on hand—broken wheat, jaggery, and coconut milk. The name “Pradhaman” means “that which stands first,” a fitting title because this dessert often takes the spotlight in traditional Kerala feasts. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a comforting treat, Gothambu Pradhaman is sure to delight your taste buds. This dish holds a special …
Life as a parent can sometimes throw unexpected challenges your way. This morning, with a sick baby needing constant care, I found myself scrambling to prepare my older child’s lunch. I remembered a recipe that has always been a lifesaver: Lemon Rice. This dish has been more than just a quick fix on hectic days. It is also a beloved staple from my childhood. Today, I’m excited to share this simple yet flavorful recipe that …