Middle Eastern Cooking: How To Introduce Falafel, Baba Ganoush And More In Your Indian Kitchen

Middle Eastern cuisine is known for its rich flavours, spices and textures. This includes food from Turkey, Egypt, Lebanon, Cyprus and several other countries. Similar to Indian cuisine, this one is also rooted in tradition. Several ingredients used to make Middle Eastern food may already be present in your Indian kitchen! Surprised? From falafel to baba ganoush to labneh, your kitchen may already have everything you need to make these lip-smacking and authentic Middle Eastern dishes. Sounds interesting, right? Read on to understand this cuisine better and bring it to your home.

Simplified: 6 Tips For Mastering Middle Eastern Cooking

1. Spices Rule The Food

Just like Indian cuisine, Middle Eastern dishes rely on spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon. Use fresh, high-quality spices to enhance the depth of flavour in your cooking.

2. Use Fresh Herbs Generously

Herbs like mint, coriander, and parsley play a key role in Middle Eastern flavours, much like these do in Indian dishes.

3. Add a Tangy Touch

Middle Eastern dishes often use lemon juice and sumac (a tangy spice made from dried berries) for a zesty kick, similar to how Indian cuisine uses tamarind or amchur (dry mango powder).

^{Middle Eastern cuisine uses plenty of spices and fresh herbs. Photo: iStock}

4. Balance Sweet and Savoury

Middle Eastern cuisine is known for its balance of sweet and savoury flavours with ingredients like honey, dried fruits, and spices coming together to achieve the perfect harmony in the dishes.

5. Explore Mezze (Small Plates)

Mezze is like the Middle Eastern version of Indian snacks and chaats. Try serving a variety of dips, pickles, and freshly baked bread for a flavorful spread.

6. Enjoy Food In Family-Style

Middle Eastern food is often prepared to be shared with family and friends, just like traditional Indian food. Bonding over food is a great way to bring people closer.

Now that you have a fair idea of the basis of the Middle Eastern cuisine, here are some tasty dishes you can recreate.

6 Popular Middle Eastern Dishes You Must Try:

1. Falafel

Falafel is made with a mixture of ground chickpeas and a blend of flavourful spices and deep-fried to perfection. These are crispy on the outside and fluffy and soft on the inside. Click here for the recipe.

2. Baba Ganoush 

Roasted eggplant, garlic and sesame seeds combine to make this delicious and smoky dip. Pair it with fresh pita bread. Find the full recipe here.

3. Hummus 

Hummus is perhaps the most popular Middle Eastern dish. The classic hummus is made with chickpeas, garlic, tahini and olive oil. Garnish it with olive oil, whole chickpeas, parsley, and paprika. Here is the complete recipe.

^{Call your friends and family for a Middle Eastern feast. Photo: iStock}

4. Fattoush

Fattoush is a Lebanese salad made from toasted or fried pieces of khubz (Arabic flat bread) combined with mixed greens and veggies like radishes, cucumber and tomatoes. You can also use pita chips for croutons.

Also Read: Heard Of Muhammara Dip? Enjoy This Spicy Red Pepper Dip With Pita Bread

5. Labneh

Labneh is a spicy yoghurt cheese made with hung curd, olive oil and spices. It's a great dish when you want something light yet satisfying. Click here to learn how to make it at home.

6. Tabbouleh

Tabbouleh is a Levantine salad of finely chopped parsley, soaked bulgur (or use semolina), tomatoes, mint, and onion. It is seasoned with olive oil, lemon juice, salt and sweet pepper. Click here for a detailed recipe.

Are you excited to try Middle Eastern cooking at home? Share your experience with us in the comments section.

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"Khub Bhalo": Mira Kapoor Enjoys An All-Veg Bengali Platter And It Looks Delicious

If you follow Mira Kapoor on Instagram, you already know she is a true-blue foodie. From relishing parsi bhonu and digging into aglio olio pasta to enjoying a comforting plate of aloo and yellow dal – she shares it all. And now, Mira is back with another foodie adventure that is too good to miss. What's on her plate this time? Authentic Bengali food! In a snap shared on her Instagram Stories, Mira showed off a feast featuring dhokar dalna (fried lentil cakes in gravy), cholar dal (split chickpea curry) and kanchkolar kofta (raw banana kofta curry). A partially eaten puri and sliced onions also made an appearance on the plate. As for the taste? Mira called it “one of the best meals” of her life. She added, “Bengali food on my plate, and it's all vegetarian. Khub Bhalo.”

Also Read: "2 Idlis 3 Vadas At Rs 35": Sonu Sood Visits Street-Side South Indian Stall In Chennai, Attempts To Make Dosa

Watch Mira Kapoor's story below:

Mira Kapoor never misses a chance to enjoy good food. Last month, during her trip to Bhutan, she shared glimpses of her foodie adventures on Instagram. One particular snap caught everyone's attention – a beautifully arranged table with croissants dusted in powdered sugar, a bowl of fresh strawberries, and a glass of water, making for the perfect tea-time spread. But where was the tea? Turns out, Mira had already finished it! In her caption, she wrote, "Food that just hit the spot with a side of butter mistletoe tea." This unique drink is made from mistletoe, a semi-parasitic evergreen plant. Here is the full story.

Before that, Mira Kapoor gave a glimpse of her weekend feast, which was both healthy and delicious. She enjoyed a wholesome Gujarati home-cooked meal – Parsi Veg Bhonu – and shared a picture of the spread on her Instagram Stories. Her meal featured a bowl of tomato chutney, brinjal pickle and gajar mewa nu achaar. Adding a fun touch, she captioned the image, "Parsi veg bhonu does exist, courtesy of the fitters." Click here to read more.

Also Read: Kriti Sanon Enjoys Jalebis On The Sets Of Tere Ishk Mein, Courtesy Aanand L. Rai

Mira Kapoor's foodie shenanigans are simply the best.

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Karnataka's Famous Bun Nippat Chaat Will Win You Over (Recipe Inside)

Chaat is one of those street foods we find hard to say no to. Even if you're not a chaat lover, there's a high chance you'll be tempted to indulge if someone offers. And who's to blame? There aren't just one but endless chaat varieties available in the market. From classic aloo papdi chaat and palak patta chaat to bhakarwadi chaat and more - we are truly spoiled for choice! Adding to this list, we present another chaat recipe that will surely surprise your taste buds. Meet Bun Nippat Chaat - a unique delicacy from Karnataka that deserves your attention. The recipe was shared by MasterChef Aruna Vijay on her Instagram. Before we get into the recipe, let's see what this chaat is all about.
Also Read: Dry Fruit Chaat Recipe: This Delightful And Nutritious Snack Is Perfect For Your Chaat Cravings

What Is Nippat?

Nippat is a popular deep-fried South Indian snack made with rice flour, spices, and sometimes peanuts. Think of it as a South Indian version of mathi - crispy, flavourful, and oh-so addictive. It makes for a delightful treat to enjoy with your evening cup of chai.

Why You'll Love Bun Nippat Chaat

Now that you know what nippat really is, imagine relishing it sandwiched between two soft buns. Bun nippat chaat is just that - but with several other exciting ingredients. It looks different from the North Indian chaat we're familiar with but tastes just as delightful. The addition of a vegetable mixture, chutneys, sev, and boondi enhances its deliciousness. If you're a true chaat fan, you're in for an absolute treat!

How To Make Bun Nippat Chaat | Bun Nippat Chaat Recipe

To make bun nippat chaat at home, follow these steps:

1. Prepare The Vegetable Mixture

In a bowl, combine onion, carrot, coriander, green chillies, salt, red chilli powder, and chaat masala. Mix well.

2. Assemble The Chaat

Slice the bun into two equal halves.

3. Add The Chutneys

Apply pudina chutney on one side and tamarind (imli) chutney on the other.

4. Add The Toppings

Place the prepared vegetable mixture over it, along with nippat, a tomato slice, sev, boondi and another layer of the vegetable mixture. Sprinkle chaat masala on top and enjoy!
Also Read: Sadheko Suntala: This Tangy And Spicy Chaat From Nepal Will Be Your New Favourite

Watch the complete video here:

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A post shared by Aruna Vijay (@aruna_vijay_masterchef)

Tips To Make Perfect Bun Nippat Chaat:

1.Use Fresh Ingredients

Make sure you're using fresh ingredients while making bun nippat chaat. Whether it's the veggies or the masalas, the fresher they are, the better your chaat will taste.

2. Be Generous With The Chutneys

Chutney helps enhance the flavour of this unique chaat, so be generous with it. Coat the buns well with both chutneys for maxim flavour.

So, what are you waiting for? Make this delicious bun nippat chaat for your next snacking session - we guarantee you'll be addicted!

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How To Prevent Heart Attack - Experts Suggest Effective Ways And Diet Tips

Heart attacks have become an increasingly prevalent issue in India, affecting not just the elderly but also a rising number of young adults. As cardiovascular diseases (CVD) continue to claim lives worldwide, including in India, health experts stress the importance of maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle. While medical advancements aim to find more effective treatments, prevention remains the most crucial defense against heart diseases. A significant factor in prevention is a balanced diet, and experts emphasize how the right foods can significantly reduce the risk of heart attacks.

Also Read: Here's A Food Guide To A Healthy Heart

Here Are 5 Lifestyle Changes That Can Help Prevent Heart Attack, According To An Expert:

1. Avoid Processed and Junk Foods

Integrated Medicine Specialist, Karan Kakkad, highlights the importance of choosing natural, whole foods over processed and junk food. Junk foods, laden with unhealthy fats, sugars, and preservatives, contribute to inflammation and higher cholesterol levels, which are significant risk factors for heart disease. Instead, incorporating fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your diet can provide essential nutrients that support heart health and reduce the likelihood of cardiovascular issues. A diet rich in fiber from plant-based foods can help lower "bad" LDL cholesterol and regulate blood pressure.

2. Prioritize Adequate Sleep

Sleep is one of the most important factors in overall health, yet it is often overlooked. Kakkad emphasizes the importance of sleep in maintaining heart health. During sleep, the body undergoes restorative processes, such as repairing damaged cells, detoxifying, and reducing stress hormones. Inadequate sleep, on the other hand, can lead to higher blood pressure and increased risk of heart disease. Prioritizing seven to eight hours of quality sleep each night helps reduce the chances of heart attacks and enhances overall well-being.

3. Manage Stress and Emotions

Chronic stress and emotional strain can wreak havoc on heart health, increasing blood pressure and causing inflammation. Kakkad stresses that managing stress through relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, and mindfulness is essential for protecting the heart. Finding healthy ways to cope with emotions, such as through physical activity or engaging in hobbies, can also play a critical role in heart disease prevention.

4. Monitor Vitamin B12 Levels

Another factor in preventing heart attacks is maintaining optimal vitamin B12 levels. Kakkad warns that low levels of vitamin B12 can elevate homocysteine, an amino acid that, when present in high levels, is linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular events. Ensuring adequate intake of vitamin B12 from foods such as eggs, dairy products, and fortified cereals can help maintain a healthy heart and prevent potential complications.

5. Incorporate Omega-3-Rich Foods

Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fatty fish and certain seeds, are essential for maintaining heart health. Dietitian Komal Malik explains that omega-3s have anti-inflammatory properties and help reduce blood clotting, lowering the risk of heart attacks. Omega-3 fatty acids also contribute to reducing "bad" LDL cholesterol levels and increasing "good" HDL cholesterol. Including sources of omega-3s, like salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts, in your diet can significantly improve cardiovascular health.

Also Read: 8 Most Essential Nutrients For A Healthy Heart

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A post shared by Karan Kakkad (@karan.kakkad)

Expert Advice on Heart-Healthy Diet

As per nutritionist Ritika Samaddar, cardiovascular diseases are a growing concern due to increasingly sedentary lifestyles and poor dietary habits. While it's important to seek professional medical care when necessary, maintaining a healthy diet is the first line of defense in preventing heart disease.
Dietitian Komal Malik recommends several heart-healthy foods to add to your diet:

• Leafy Green Vegetables: Greens like spinach and kale are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and other nutrients that reduce the risk of heart disease. These vegetables help lower "bad" cholesterol levels and improve overall heart function.
• Salmon: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, salmon is an excellent choice for heart health. These fats help reduce blood pressure and inflammation, and even small amounts of omega-3s can enhance arterial function. Aim to include salmon or other fatty fish like sardines and tuna in your diet twice a week.
• Whole Grains: Whole grains, particularly oats, are beneficial for heart health. Oats contain soluble fiber that helps reduce cholesterol levels, while also providing vitamins and minerals that support cardiovascular function. Enjoying a bowl of oatmeal with fresh berries and nuts is a heart-healthy breakfast choice.
• Walnuts: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E, walnuts help manage cholesterol levels and improve heart function. These healthy fats can prevent plaque buildup in the arteries, reducing the risk of atherosclerosis and heart attacks.
• Soy Foods: Soy-based foods, such as tofu and tempeh, are excellent plant-based protein sources. They help lower cholesterol and blood pressure, making them a great addition to a heart-healthy diet. By replacing meat with soy products a few times a week, you can significantly reduce your intake of unhealthy saturated fats.

Adopting a heart-healthy diet can have a profound impact on reducing the risk of heart attacks and preventing cardiovascular diseases. Incorporating the right foods into your daily routine, such as leafy greens, omega-3-rich fish, and whole grains, can help protect your heart and promote overall well-being. By making small yet impactful changes to your diet, you can empower yourself to maintain a healthy heart for years to come.

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Weekend Special: Try These 5 Shahi Tukda Recipes For Your Sweet Cravings

As soon as the weekend arrives - we start craving all things delicious. After a long and hectic week, we deserve to treat our taste buds with our favourite food. Don't you agree? If you're a sweet lover, just like us, then you know it's impossible to resist indulging in mouth-watering desserts. While there are plenty of options to choose from, we all have a soft corner for Indian desserts. One such famous dessert is Shahi Tukda - a type of bread pudding which originated in Mughlai cuisine in the 1600s. It is often described as a royal dessert that spells indulgence in every bite. So, if you're wanting to indulge in some sweet goodness over the weekend, here we bring you a list of delectable shahi tukda recipes that you can easily make at home. Let's take a look:

Also read: Bread Recipes: 4 Delicious Bread-Based Dessert Recipes For All Occasions

Here's A List Of 5 Shahi Tukda Recipes You Must Try:

1.Mango Shahi Tukda (Our Recommendation)
Let's start the list with our favourite one. Give your classic shahi tukda a fruity twist with this mango shahi tukda recipe. Fried and crispy bread coated in sugar syrup and a delicious mango puree - this dessert is perfect for the summer. Find the recipe here.

2.Shahi Tukda With Rabri
Want to enjoy the goodness of two desserts in one? This recipe has pieces of fried bread slathered with a generous amount of rabri and garnished with cashew nuts. A popular dessert for festive occasions - you can make this sweet treat easily at home in under 30 mins. Find the recipe here.

3.Shahi Tukda With Apricot Sheera
Another unique recipe that you must try is shahi tukda with apricot sheera. Classic shahi tukda is warmed in a heavy custard cream, topped with a layer of apricot compote and mascarpone cream. It will surely leave you drooling. Find the recipe here.

Also read:  8 Flavourful Indian Mithais You Can Enjoy During Monsoon

4.Khubani Ka Shahi Tukda
Khubani ka shahi tukda is a recipe that is oozing with different types of flavours. Stuffed with apricots and rabri - it spells indulgence in every bite. Make this dessert for your friends and family and impress them with your culinary skills. Find the recipe here.

5.Shahi Tukda With Pineapple
As the name suggests, this dessert is a combination of shahi tukda with pineapple. Saffron infused bread is sandwiched between a layer of candied ginger and pineapple. Garnish it with silver foil, a sprinkle of pistachios and enjoy! Find the recipe here.

Make these delicious shahi tukda recipes. Let us know which one you liked the best in the comments section below.

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Diabetes Diet: 7 Diabetic-Friendly Breakfast Recipes Under 15 Mins

Every once in a while, when we get our whole-body checkups, we usually believe that most things will be fine. And even if it is not, we can manage our health with just a few lifestyle-related changes. However, when it comes to diabetes, it becomes challenging. Diabetes is a disease that causes blood sugar levels to fluctuate. It is a condition in which your body does not create enough insulin or is unable to respond to the quantity produced. Diabetes is irreversible, and if left untreated, it can cause problems with your eyes, kidneys, and even heart. While many medications are available to control diabetes, you can also manage it with simple dietary changes. For the same, here we bring you some easy-to-make breakfast recipes that can help manage diabetes. Check out some of the recipes below:

(Also Read: Diabetes Diet: Bajre Ki Khichdi Benefits And Recipe To Regulate Blood Sugar)

Here Are 7 Diabetes-Friendly Breakfast Recipes

1. Kuttu Paratha (Our Recommendation)

Kuttu, also known as buckwheat, is a gluten-free grain utilized in Navratri fasting meals. Kuttu is high in protein, essential minerals, and vitamins, making it ideal for people with diabetes. This kuttu ka paratha is an easy recipe to make that you can pair with dahi.

2. Aloe Vera Juice

This juice is one of the most popular methods of consuming aloe vera. All you have to do is mix some aloe vera gel with a glass of water, salt, roasted jeera, and mint leaves, and serve in a tall glass. It may taste bitter, but its health benefits will positively affect you.

3. Kala Chana Chaat

Simply soak the chana overnight, place it in the pressure cooker and boil. To this, add some boiled potatoes and masalas with kala chana to amp up its taste! Then dig in. You can even carry this chaat in your lunch box.

4. Stir-fry Boiled Eggs

Many opt for boiled eggs instead of omelettes or scrambled eggs to cut down on oil and butter. If plain boiled eggs aren't your thing, try this quick stir-fry dish with boiled eggs. However, when you make this dish, make sure to use only a tablespoon of oil. You can also cook it in a non-stick pan to reduce oil usage.

(Also Read: Diabetes Diet: Does Eating Meat And Dairy Products Increase Diabetes Risk? Experts Reveal)

5. Upma

This breakfast dish is one of the simplest on our list and one of the most popular. This mushy mix, made with urad dal, semolina, curd, and vegetables, is a treasure trove of protein and fibre that could help with diabetes management.

6. Neem Tea

While neem has numerous health benefits, it is especially beneficial to non-insulin-dependent diabetics. Blood sugar levels can be managed with a hot cup of neem tea first thing in the morning.

7. Ragi Dosa

This crispy dosa combines a variety of popular nutrients. Ragi and wheat are known for their high fibre content, and for diabetics, this could be an excellent nutrition package. If you feel that the taste is not suitable for you, pair it with some chutney to make it flavourful.

These recipes are easy to make and can be incorporated into your daily diet. Try them out, and let us know which recipe you liked the best.

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Chutney Waale Aloo: A Tangy Treat You Won't Be Able To Resist (Recipe Inside)

Aloo is one of the most versatile vegetables out there. Whether used in snacks or main course dishes, it can be transformed into a variety of preparations. Among them, the most loved and commonly cooked is the humble aloo ki sabzi. While some prefer the dry version, like jeera aloo, others enjoy it in a flavourful gravy. But have you ever tried aloo sabzi infused with chutney? Introducing Chutney Waale Aloo - a unique fusion of potatoes and pudina chutney that will surely surprise your taste buds. If you're an aloo lover like us, don't miss out on this delicious recipe - you might regret it later!
Also Read: Love Dum Aloo? This Bengali-Style Recipe Will Be Your New Favourite

What Is Chutney Waale Aloo?

Chutney waale aloo is unlike any other sabzi you've tried before. In this recipe, baby potatoes are cooked with a blend of masalas and pudina chutney, resulting in a lip-smacking dish with a perfect balance of spicy and tangy flavours. It's an excellent choice for when you want to whip up something unique and impress your family or guests. Plus, it's incredibly easy to prepare!

What Pairs Well With Chutney Waale Aloo?

Chutney waale aloo taste best when enjoyed with freshly made chapatis or parathas. However, if you're not a fan of roti, you can also relish them with rice - just be sure to have some dal on the side. Additionally, this sabzi pairs well with papad, onions, and achaar for an extra burst of flavour.

Chutney Waale Aloo Recipe | How To Make Chutney Waale Aloo

The recipe for chutney waale aloo was shared by the Instagram page @diningwithdhoot. Start by parboiling the baby potatoes, then peel them once done. In a pan, heat oil and cook the potatoes until they turn crispy. Set them aside. In the same pan, heat more oil and add jeera, hing, garlic cloves, and dried red chillies. Cook for a few minutes, then add finely chopped onions and crushed peanuts. Mix well. Now, add the baby potatoes along with pudina chutney. Give it a good mix before adding salt, haldi, and coriander powder. Top it off with a drizzle of lemon juice and enjoy! Pretty simple, right?
Also Read: Aloo Anda Chokha: A Delightful Bihari Treat You Have To Try

Watch the complete recipe video below:

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A post shared by Mahima Dhoot (@diningwithdhoot)
 

Prepare this delicious aloo sabzi for your next lunch or dinner and impress your family with your culinary skills.

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