Now, Make Halwa In Just 10 Minutes! 5 Genius Tips To Follow

Name one Indian dessert that never fails to win hearts. We are sure, most of you will vote for halwa. A melt-in-mouth delicacy, halwa is possibly the safest food to resort to, especially during those untimely sweet cravings. What fascinates us the most is the fact that you can make halwa with various ingredients including nuts, seeds, flour, vegetables, fruits, and more. In fact, if you notice, you will find every season comes with its unique halwa recipes - for instance, you have gajar and badam ka halwa for winter and lauki ka halwa for the summer season. Now that halwa is established as one of the most popular desserts of all time, let's take you through some quick tips to make it in no time. You heard us. We have found some genius hacks that can help you prepare halwa in not more than 10 minutes.

What Is The History Of Halwa: What Is The Origin Of Halwa:

According to food historians, halwa finds its origin in Aran and Turkish lands, which is believed to have travelled towards the eastern countries in medieval times and became our very own Halwa as we see it today. Food expert Anoothi Vishal states, "A confection made of flour (of various kinds), sugar, water, nuts and with or without oil/fat, the halwa has decidedly Arab origins, from where it seems to have travelled both East and West, through trade and conquest".
She further explains that the kind of Arab-influenced halwa is quite distinct in texture. However, later the innovations in the recipe happened using a wider variety of ingredients, influenced by the sophistication of the Persians/Mughals.
Also Read: This 3-Ingredient Gajar Ka Halwa Recipe Is Beginner-Friendly And Delicious

_{Photo Credit: iStock}

Tips And Tricks To Make Quick Halwa: 5 Hacks To Follow To Make 10-Minute Halwa:

1. Play with the hero ingredient:

Always pick the right kind of ingredient to save the halwa-making time. For instance, you can always go for atta, fine rava, dalia, or ragi (coarsely powdered) to save time while making halwa.

2. Keep the ingredients handy:

Make sure you have all the ingredients needed for your recipe kept organized in front. Hunting for the right ingredients in between the cooking process extends the time you spend in the kitchen.

3. Use powdered sweetener:

Sugar, jaggery, or whatever sweetening agent you use in a halwa recipe takes time to dissolve. Hence, we prefer using the powdered version to save time. So next time, pick sugar dust and jaggery powder to make halwa at home in no time.

4. Use hot water or hot milk:

Boiling water or milk before adding to your halwa speeds up the cooking process. Alongside, it also helps you get the perfect texture of the food.

5. Make in small batches:

This is possibly the best idea to save time while cooking. To curb your instant sweet cravings, we suggest making the halwa you choose in a small amount. This will help you cook better, enjoy it fresh, and save time in the kitchen.
Now that you have the tips handy, follow them well and make yourself a quick bowl of halwa to curb the sweet cravings this weekend. Do let us know if the tricks worked for you.

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Nayanthara Marks Her Twins' "Dreamy Birthday" With Sweet Assortments - See Pic

'Jawan' famed actor Nayanthara and husband, director Vignesh Shivan celebrated their twins - Uyir and Ulag's first birthday in a special way. They flew to Malaysia for the celebrations and shared glimpses of the vacation on social media. Now, Vignesh Shivan has treated fans to an inside picture from the adorable birthday bash, held in Kuala Lumpur. In the pictures, Nayanthara, her husband, and the twins can be seen twinning in white ensembles. While Nayanthara held one of her sons in her arms, Vignesh lovably wrapped his arm around the other baby boy. Going by the photograph, it was certainly a “dreamy birthday” party! The celebration was intimate for sure, but it was equally grand. While the white and blue decoration was all things beautiful, the foodie within us was pretty much glued to the array of delicacies spread on the table. 
The highlight of the yummy treats was undoubtedly the two jungle-themed tiered cakes. Those white cupcakes with blue icing looked delicious and perfectly matched the white-and-blue theme of the birthday bash. Wait, what? There was another cake - it was a sky-blue birthday cake decorated with two chocolate-filled teddy bears. Isn't it too cute to be devoured? A few trays carried an assortment of flavoured candies as well. The treat didn't end here!
Did you notice those melt-in-the-mouth marshmallows on the table? Jars and jars of chocolates as well as chocolate mousse were on display on the table. We are craving to delve into the gooey chocolatey pleasure, just like Charlie (from The Chocolate Factory, of course!). After all, what's a birthday celebration without chocolates?! “That was a dreamy birthday,” wrote Vignesh Shivan in the caption.

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A post shared by Vignesh Shivan (@wikkiofficial)

For the uninitiated, Nayanthara and Vignesh Shivan tied the knot on June 9, 2022, in a resort in Mahabalipuram, Chennai. On October 9, 2022, the couple announced embracing parenthood and welcomed their twins via surrogacy.

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Steaming Food: 5 Surprising Health Benefits You Need to Know

They say cooking is an art, a delicate craft of perfection and technique. And when it comes to culinary mastery, there's one method that stands out - steaming. Dive into the world of steamed cuisine, where health meets flavour in perfect harmony. Steam cooking is a nutritional powerhouse, preserving those precious nutrients while being a boon for weight watchers due to its low-calorie nature. Plus, it's gentle on your digestion. But that's just the beginning! Explore a world of benefits as we uncover the wonders of steamy goodness. Let's embark on this mouthwatering journey together!

Also Read:Tamarind Benefits: 5 Interesting Ways To Add Imli To Your Diet (With Recipes)

Steaming

What is Steaming and How Does It Differ from Boiling and Poaching?

Steaming is a cooking technique where food is gently cooked using hot water vapour. You can achieve this by directly exposing the food to hot water vapour or using a specialized kitchen appliance called a steamer. What sets steaming apart is the absence of oil or ghee in the process, making it a healthier cooking option.

Now, let's break it down: steaming, boiling, and poaching-three ways to cook your food. No fancy talk here, just plain and simple differences between these methods.

What is Boiling?

Boiling is like a deep-sea dive for your ingredients. You toss them into a pot of rolling bubbles and let 'em swim. It's quick and easy but can be a bit rough on delicate stuff like veggies. Nutrients might take a dive into the water.

What is Poaching?

Poaching is like giving your food a gentle soak in simmering water or broth, but not a wild boil. It's perfect for delicate items like fish and eggs. Poached food stays tender and cozy.

Steaming vs. Boiling:

Here's the scoop: Steaming keeps nutrients where they belong. Boiling can sometimes let them escape into the water. So, if you're all about nutrient preservation, steaming's your champ.

Steaming vs. Poaching:

Both steaming and poaching are gentle methods. Poaching has that extra cozy bath factor. Steaming might keep the original texture of your food slightly better.

Also Read: Cook Smarter, Not Harder: 5 Time-Saving Kitchen Hacks You Need To Try

Now, let's explore the incredible health benefits of steaming:

1. Nutrients Stay Intact

In our quest for delicious meals, we often use methods like deep frying and boiling, which can lead to nutrient loss. However, when you steam your vegetables and fruits, they retain all their valuable nutrients. Your body benefits from this nutrient-packed goodness.

2. Digestive Health Booster

Steaming relies on neither oil nor spices, making it gentle on your digestive system. This approach to cooking ensures that your food is easily digestible and contributes to a healthier gut. Say goodbye to heavy, greasy meals!

3. Cholesterol Control

If you're concerned about cholesterol levels, steaming should be on your radar. It's a terrific choice for managing high blood pressure and cholesterol. With no added oils or ghee, you're on the path to long-term health and well-being.

4. Food that Looks and Tastes Amazing

Steaming is a culinary gem when it comes to preparing fruits and vegetables. The vibrant colors and shapes of these natural goodies remain intact through the steaming process. Fruits and veggies retain their delightful crunch and taste, and you won't find your food turning sticky or overcooked.

5. Weight-Loss-Friendly

If you're on a weight loss journey, steaming should be your new best friend. While some opt for raw vegetables during weight loss, this can sometimes be harsh on your system and lead to issues. Instead, consider incorporating steamed vegetables into your diet for a healthier approach to shedding those pounds.

In conclusion, the magic of steaming lies not only in its ability to preserve nutrients but also in its contribution to digestive health, cholesterol management, culinary appeal, and weight loss goals. So, why not add steamed dishes to your menu for a healthier, tastier lifestyle? Your body will thank you!

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Delicious and Healthy: Low-Cal Medu Vada Recipe Is The Right Choice For South Indian Food Craving

When it comes to South Indian cuisine, one dish that stands out for its taste and crunchiness is Medu Vada. These savoury fried lentil doughnuts are a popular snack or breakfast item in India. While the traditional Medu Vada is undeniably delicious, it's also known for being deep-fried and calorie-heavy. But what if we told you that you can enjoy the same incredible flavours without excessive oil consumption? That would be a dream come true, right? That's why, we have brought this amazing recipe to you, which makes crispy medu vada without deep frying it!
Also Read: This Easy Kerala-Style Egg Chilli Recipe Will Make For The Perfect South Indian Meal

Traditionally, medu vada is made from urad dal (black gram lentils) and spices. The batter is beautifully seasoned with ingredients like green chillies, ginger, curry leaves, and cumin seeds. Then the batter is shaped into donut-like rings and deep-fried. The result is a delightful snack that pairs wonderfully with coconut chutney or sambar. The only downside? The calorie count can be a bit intimidating.

Enter, low-cal healthy medu vada!

Now, let's talk about how we can make Medu Vada healthier without compromising on taste. The traditional way of preparing Medu Vada involves deep-frying, which adds a significant amount of calories. But fear not, for we have a healthier alternative - air frying! Yes, you can fry your Medu Vada in an air fryer to achieve that lovely crunch without the excess oil. You can also enhance the nutrition of your Medu Vada by incorporating ingredients like grated carrots, finely chopped spinach, or soaked and blended oats. Another important thing to do is to keep an eye on the size of your Medu Vada. smaller vadas not only have fewer calories but also cook more evenly in the air fryer. 

Finally, pair your low-calorie Medu Vada with nutritious sides such as mint chutney, yogurt, or a tangy tomato dip. These condiments add flavour without packing extra calories.
Also Read: 7 Healthy South Indian Breakfast Recipes That Will Make Your Mornings Better

Medu vada can be paired with sambhar and chutneys. Image Credit: iStock

How To Make Healthy Medu Vada I Low-Cal Medu Vada Recipe: 

Rinse and soak urad dal in water for about 4-5 hours or better still, overnight. After draining the water, grind the dal to make batter. Add salt and spices like green chillies, curry leaves and more. Take small portions from the batter and shape them into vadas with a hole in the centre. Then brush them with oil - this will help give the vadas that irresistible crunch. And just air fry them to golden perfection.  

Click here for the step-by-step recipe for healthy medu vada. 

Pair with the side of your choice and enjoy a delicious and healthy South Indian meal.  

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"Apna Star Toh..." - Temjen Imna Along Enjoys Pani Puri, Praises Indian Street Food

Let's admit, it is hard to say no to oh-so-yummy pani puri. Tiny crispy puris with spicy filling and tangy water have the power to make your tastebuds do the happy dance. Well, we are not alone. Nagaland minister Temjen Imna Along, too loves to relish this street food. How do we know, you ask? The minister has shared a picture of himself enjoying pani puri on X  (formerly Twitter). His caption was, as always, was on point. It read, “Whatever you say, your star is street food, both in price and in its functionality!” The photo became an instant hit on social media. It has received more than 573K views so far. Take a look at the picture below:

कुछ भी कह लो, अपना Star तो Street Food ही है यार, दाम में भी और काम में भी!???? pic.twitter.com/yCkWyxSjeL

— Temjen Imna Along (@AlongImna) September 28, 2023

Temjen Imna Along also replied to a curious user who wanted to know how many pani puris are available for Rs 10. He said, “Bhai sahab, Rs 10 ki kitni milti hai? [How many do you get for Rs 10?]” The minister said, “5 only.”

5 only

— Temjen Imna Along (@AlongImna) September 28, 2023

Another wanted to know how many pani puris did he eat. 

कितने खाये

— Ravi Jadam (@RaviJadam136) September 28, 2023

A user added a fun twist to the evergreen dialogue, Ye Haath Mujhe De De Thakur, from the cult-classic Sholay and said, “Ye pani puri mujhe dede Thakur.” 

Yeh Panipuri mujhe de thakur????????

— P4PJP (@P4PJP) September 28, 2023

‘Wah ! fida kardi aap ki adaa ne [I am super impressed],” read a comment.

Wah ! fida kardi aap ki adaa ne ????

— mahantesh vc (@718607) September 28, 2023

A sarcastic comment read, "That's quite a big plate."

Plate toh bahut bada hai ?

— Naveen (@_naveenish) September 28, 2023

Agreeing with him, one user wrote, "You have said the right thing, sir."

Ye baat to sahi kahi dada

— Shubham dwivedi?? (@mahamahim555) September 28, 2023

"Golgappe supremacy," read another comment. 

Golgappe supremacy ??

— NirVana? (@Khayaalii) September 28, 2023

What is your favourite street food?

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Chocolate Cake In 4 Minutes! Don't Believe Us? Try This Recipe And Decide

4-minute chocolate cake: There are a few things in life that provide instant happiness, and a big piece of chocolate cake is surely one of them. Imagine that delicious chocolate cake with rich chocolate ganache on the top - the very thought is enough to uplift your mood. Right? From being a part of our special days to bringing joy on a mundane day, chocolate cake has been a constant in our lives. And if you love baking, then you feel an enhanced sense of joy and fulfillment. Hence, to satisfy the baker in you, we thought of sharing a delicious chocolate cake recipe that you can easily replicate at home. Now, you must be wondering what is so special about it! So let us tell you, this delicious chocolate cake can be made in not more than four minutes. You read that right. So without any further delay, let's take you through the amazing process of making a four-minute chocolate cake.
Also Read: 7 Interesting And Unique Chocolate Cake Recipes

Chocolate Cake Baking Tutorial: 5 Baking Tips To Remember To Make Chocolate Cake:

Baking is all about science. Mixing the right kind of ingredients in the correct amount and cooking for a specific time helps you achieve the desired taste and texture of a homemade chocolate cake.
- Always use good quality ingredients and appliances to bake your cake properly and get the perfect taste and texture of your homemade chocolate cake.
- Pick the right kind of flour (preferably maida) for a perfectly light and airy chocolate cake.
- Take ingredients in exact measurement. Overdoing with any ingredient may end up making your homemade chocolate cake too dry or moist.
- Always mix the dry ingredients first and then add the liquid ingredients for the perfect batter. The best practice is to blend and whip the batter as efficiently as you can for a smooth texture.
- Always let your cake cool down completely before you decorate it. Working on hot cake might build cracks, further leading to a collapse.
Also Read: Baking Made Simple: How To Make Delicious Chocolate Cake In A Pressure Cooker

4-Minute Chocolate Cake Recipe: How To Bake A Quick And Easy Chocolate Cake In 4 Minutes:

This quick and easy recipe has been shared by Chef Pankaj Bhadouria on her Instagram handle. She begins with preparing a buttermilk by adding some vinegar to a bowl of milk. Next, she mixed the dry ingredients like flour, baking soda, and cocoa powder and sieved them well. To it, she added the buttermilk and some refined oil to prepare a smooth and glossy batter. Next, she added the mould to a microwave oven-safe container and baked it for just four minutes. That's it! You have a freshly baked delicious chocolate cake ready to be relished.
Also Read: Burnt Your Cake? Follow These 5 Easy Tips To Fix It

_{Photo Credit: iStock}

Cake Decoration Hacks: Quick Tips For Best Chocolate Cake Presentation:

Chef Pankaj further shared a quick hack to decorate the chocolate cake to make it look extra special. For that, she prepares a ganache with three ingredients - fresh cream, butter, and dark chocolate. Then she drizzled cut the cake from the centre and added sugar syrup on each slice, which was then stacked one upon the other and covered with chocolate ganache. Finally, she added some cherries on the top and you have a confectionary-like chocolate cake ready to be relished.
Also Read: Baking Made Simple: How To Make Delicious Chocolate Cake In A Pressure Cooker
Watch the detailed video below:

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A post shared by MasterChef Pankaj Bhadouria (@masterchefpankajbhadouria)

For more such chocolate cake recipes, click here.

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International Coffee Day 2023: Exploring India's Top 10 Artisanal Coffee Shops Where Craft Meets Flavour

It's true that coffee is an addiction for us. A beautiful cafe and a delicious cup of coffee are all we need to relax and rejuvenate. India, known for its vibrant culture and diverse culinary landscape, has seen a surge in artisanal coffee culture in recent years. While coffee has long been a staple of many households, the emergence of specialised coffee shops has taken the appreciation of this beloved beverage to new heights. From expertly brewed espressos to meticulously crafted latte art, these cafes offer more than just a caffeine fix- they deliver a unique experience for coffee aficionados and casual sippers alike. We found 10 such cafes all across India which are havens for coffee lovers.
Also Read: Coffee Obsessed? Check Out These 5 Cafes In Delhi For Customised Delights

International Coffee Day 2023: Here Are 10 Best Artisanal Coffee Shops In India: 

Machan, New Delhi:

Step into the reimagined Machan, and you'll be transported to a jungle oasis. The cafe's awe-inspiring interiors feature custom-designed wall coverings that vividly recreate scenes of the Indian junglescape, celebrating the beauty of nature and the magnificence of the Indian tiger. With cane tree canopies, terracotta animal masks, contemporary lanterns, and elegant banquette seating, Machan sets the stage for a wonderful dining experience. Enjoy refreshing beverages and snacks inspired by the rich heritage of Indian forests as you embark on a delightful journey of flavours.
Where: Taj Mahal Hotel, New Delhi

Best Brews, Four Points by Sheraton - New Delhi

Nestled in the heart of New Delhi, Best Brews at Four Points By Sheraton, New Delhi is the ultimate destination for caffeine connoisseurs. Whether you crave a velvety cappuccino or a robust espresso, we've got your coffee dreams covered. From classic blends to speciality creations, we've got your cravings covered. The ambience envelops you in its warm embrace, with meticulously designed interiors that mirror the elegance and charm of New Delhi itself. As you savour our freshly brewed concoctions, you're enveloped in an atmosphere where time seems to stand still, a place where every sip transports you to a realm of sensory delight. So, on this International Coffee Day, we raise our cups high, toasting to the passion for the perfect brew and the delightful journey it takes us on. Cheers to the best coffee and the memories created at Four Points by Sheraton!
Where: Four Points by Sheraton, New Delhi, Airport Highway
Also Read: 9 Best Coffee Brands In India That Will Level Up Your Brews

KMC, Mumbai: 

Housed in the heritage building of Kitaab Mahal, KMC is an interpreted space that transcends cultural boundaries. The cafe seamlessly blends with colonial architecture, creating a familiar yet unconventional atmosphere. Their curated menu includes coffee favourites like Americano, Cappuccino, Vietnamese Coffee, and Cortado, along with unique dishes such as Smoked Pork Tacos and Quiche x Cheesecake.
Where: Kitab Mahal, Fort, Mumbai

Donna Deli, Mumbai

Designed by interior designer Tejal Mathur, Donna Deli exudes the charm of Roman bistros. Located in Bandra, this chic restaurant and coffee shop features a quaint alfresco section adorned with striking decor pieces. Donna Deli is renowned for its Iced Latte, a delightful blend of ice-cold milk and rich, strong coffee.
Where: Bandra West, Mumbai

Banyan Tree Cafe, Mumbai

Housed within a 140-year-old former ice factory and part of the IF.BE experimental art space, Banyan Tree Cafe pays homage to Mumbai's heritage. Its floor-to-ceiling windows and overhead skylights flood the space with natural light, providing a view of the towering banyan tree and art spaces beyond. The extensive menu offers a mix of healthy plates, comfort meals, and piping-hot cups of Dope Coffee.
Where: Ballard Estate, Fort, Mumbai

The Daily Cafe, Kolkata

Step into The Daily Cafe, and you'll be greeted by a hand-painted, tropical-themed flamingo mural. The cafe's millennial pink and green hues blend seamlessly with its clean and minimalist design. The arched ceiling adds an interesting architectural element, while an al fresco section surrounded by vertical gardens offers a tranquil escape.
Where: Kalighat, Kolkata

Milee Droog Cafe & Bistro, Kolkata

Nestled in the bylanes of south Kolkata, Milee Droog Cafe & Bistro spans three floors. The cafe's art deco architecture and modern interiors boast checkerboard floors, white floral motifs, and a pastel colour palette. Milee Droog Coffee & Bistro offers an extensive menu featuring a range of coffee options and crowd-favorite dishes. 
Where: Ground Floor, 34, Lansdowne Ter, Kolkata 

Paper & Pie's Cafe, Bengaluru

Immerse yourself in the perfect blend of serenity and culinary delight at Paper & Pie, the newest sensation in Indiranagar. With its chic ambience and diverse menu, this cafe is set to redefine your dining experience. Paper & Pie is not your typical cafe; It's a haven designed for everyone. In addition to being a cafe, the outlets offer podcast rooms for creative minds, conference rooms for meetings, and a serene environment for ideation. Whether you're looking to work or unwind with a good book, Paper & Pie has you covered. At Paper & Pie, the menu boasts an array of coffee delights, from classic brews to speciality creations that will awaken your taste buds. Sip on expertly crafted espressos, cappuccinos, and lattes while indulging in a variety of coffee-infused dishes, from coffee-rubbed steaks to decadent coffee desserts. The menu at Paper & Pie is a culinary journey waiting to be explored. From protein-packed omelettes to classic pancakes, blueberry smoothies to succulent steaks, and chef specials like tabbouleh salad and seared sea bass, it caters to every palate.
Where: Indiranagar - Metro Pillar Number 55, 842/A, 100 Feet Rd, Indira Nagar 1st Stage, H Colony, Indiranagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560038

Concu, Bengaluru

Aptly named after the French word for "crafted", Concu's products reflect perfection to the very core. The cafe's menu boasts sumptuous European-style desserts and globally-inspired food, accompanied by expertly brewed coffees. As a tribute to Bengaluru, the cafe introduces a series of exclusive delicacies like Edamame, Fava beans & Berry Tomato Brioche, Gongura Mutton Toast, Hyderabadi Anda Tamatar, Espresso Cheesecake Iced Coffee to augment the regular menu.
Aspiring to capture the essence of the charming street-facing cafes of European cities, Concu Bengaluru's ambience is designed to exude sophistication and warmth with soft lighting and distinct minimal Scandinavian aesthetics The inviting space features corner nooks, window-side views of the bustling city, quaint tables, and plenty of natural light to offer guests a serene haven to disconnect from the digital and connect with each other.  
Where: 1089/A, 12th Main Rd, Doopanahalli, Indiranagar, Bengaluru

G-Shot Coffee Roastery & Cafe, Goa 

G-Shot Coffee Roastery & Cafe take their brews seriously, serving only single-origin beans. Their coffee is speciality roasted and sourced from some of the best estates in the country. They do everything from espresso to cold brews and Vietnamese-style coffee, so there's a cuppa for all tastes.
Where: H. No 436, Socol Vaddo, Assagao, Goa 

These cafes are worth a visit to savour the unique flavours and ambience they offer. Discover the craft of coffee in India, one cup at a time.

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