How To Make Viral Chinese Fruit Candy That's Taking Over Social Media

Looking for a fun, sweet snack? Look no further. If you are a fan of watching viral food videos on social media, you might have come across Tanghulu - a sugar-coated candy made using fresh fruits. Tanghulu is a popular street snack sold in China. If you cannot find this treat around your place, you can also make it at home. Tanghulu looks pretty, with brightly colored fruits on a skewer coated in a glossy, transparent, hard sugar shell. If you are looking for a sweet treat with fresh fruits, you might just fall in love with Tanghulu. However, if you have to restrict sugar in your diet due to health conditions, you may have to keep your distance from this sugary fruit candy.

Also Read: Amla For Immunity: Homemade Amla Candy Recipe And Health Benefits Of Amla

What Does Tanghulu Taste Like?

Tanghulu has a super sweet taste on the outside and a fruity-juicy taste as you bite into it, depending on which fruits you have chosen. You can take sour or citrusy fruits to play with the sugar and sour fruit combination. Or if you want your candy wholly sweet, you can choose sweet fruits. The texture of the outside shell is crunchy and crackly, while the inside is soft and chewy.

Which Fruits Are Used In Tanghulu?

Traditionally, Tanghulu was made using hawthorn berries, which have a sour flavor. However, since these berries are not easily available in other parts of the world, people usually resort to choosing strawberries instead. You can choose any fruit you like. However, make sure the surface of the fruit is not wet or has any moisture on the outside, as that will prevent sugar from sticking to it. Apart from strawberries, other popular fruit options include grapes, blueberries, kiwi, and oranges.

Also Read: Eating Fruits Or Drinking Fruit Juice - What Is Better? Here's What Expert Says

How To Make Tanghulu At Home

Making Tanghulu at home can be easy if you know how to work with sugar. You have to work fast while coating the fruits, as we do not want the sugar to crystallize. As always, some practice and the use of the right technique and ratio of ingredients can help in mastering this recipe. Once the fruits are lined on the skewers, you have to dip them in a mix of sugar, water, and light corn syrup boiled together. Once the fruits are dipped in the sugar mix, the skewer is placed in an ice bath so that it sets completely. Here is the full step-by-step recipe.

Do you like fruit-based desserts? Here are more such interesting dessert recipes you can try at home.

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The Fascinating Story Of Rava Idli - How It Is Enjoyed In Bengaluru And Chennai

You will hear legends about how people waited for days to score a table at the first MTR or Mavalli Tiffin Room in the 1970s and 1980s in Bengaluru. I've heard those stories from my grandparents who were from Bengaluru. It was at MTR that I tried a rava idli for the first time. The MTR story began a century ago, in 1924  when three brothers switched base from a sleepy hamlet near Udupi to set up a small eatery in Bengaluru. It was Yagnarayana Maiya or Yagnappa who took the lead among the siblings and set the stage for the MTR brand as we know it today.

Also Read: 5 Healthy And Tasty Sooji Snacks Recipes You'd Love To Make Time And Again

One of the most fascinating stories you will hear around MTR is the origin of the rava idli. It almost began by accident. Yagnappa experimented with rava during the Second World War when rice was in short supply, an innovative new dish born out of necessity. It's still a favourite at MTR outlets across the city and the one dish I keep going back for. 

The rava idli didn't just become a part of restaurant menus in Bengaluru and Chennai but also became a popular 'tiffin' (that endless time between lunch and dinner) snack across South India. There are subtle variations between versions you will see in Bengaluru and Chennai (see both recipes) but the basic ingredients are almost the same - rava (semolina) and curd with a host of spices and ingredients that add to the flavour profile. The colour also tends to vary from one restaurant to the other depending on the quantity of fresh coriander that's added to the batter. 

Rava idli is a popular South Indian food.
Photo Credit: Ashwin Rajagopalan

If you're looking at trying this dish out in Chennai, we'd suggest the New Woodlands Hotel on RK Salai or Eating Circles in RA Puram which both do scrumptious versions of the rava idli. In most restaurants in Bengaluru like MTR it's served with a sagu and/or a coconut chutney will a small dollop of ghee added to the idli. You can try making this delicious snack at home. It isn't just a great snack for tea time (or filter coffee time!) but also works well as a light dinner option:  

Recipe: Bangalore-style Rava Idli

Ingredients

• 1 cup rava 
• 2 cup slightly sour whisked curd 
• 2 tbsp Ghee 
• 1 tbsp Mustard seeds
• 1 tbsp Channa Dal
• 1 tbsp  green chilli, finely chopped 
• A pinch of asafoetida 
• 1/4 tbsp Eno fruit salt or baking soda 
• 10 whole cashews broken into halves
• 3 tbsp Coriander leaves finely chopped
• Salt: to taste 

Method 

• Temper mustard seeds with ghee in a pad. Once the mustard seeds splutter,  add the asafoetida, channa dal, and green chillies and saute for a minute. 
• Now add the cashews and saute till golden brown. 
• Add the rava and roast on a medium flame for about 2 to 3 minutes till aromatic. 
• Turn off the heat and let it cool.
• Now add half of the curd to the rava and mix well. Let it rest for 15 mins.
• After 15 minutes, add the remaining curd, eno/baking soda, coriander and salt. Mix well.
• Now the batter becomes airy when you stir. 
• Grease the idli plate with oil and place cashews in the centre.
• Fill 3/4th of each Idli mould with batter. 
• Steam for 10 minutes in an Idli steamer.
• Turn off the heat and let them cook before it cools down and you can remove them from the mould. 

Also Read: Tried Coriander Upma? Here's A Quick Recipe For This Healthy Dish

Recipe - Chennai-style Rava Idli

Ingredients

• 1 cup rava 
• 2 tbsp ghee 
• 1 tbsp mustard seeds 
• 1/2 tbsp  cumin seeds 
• 1 tbsp chana dal
• A pinch of asafoetida  
• A sprig of curry leaves, finely chopped 
• 1 green chilli, finely chopped
• 1-inch ginger, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp carrot, grated
• 1/4 tbsp turmeric
• 3/4 cup slightly sour curd 
• 2 tbsp coriander, finely chopped
• Salt: to taste  
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 tbsp  Eno or baking soda 
• 10 whole cashews broken into halves

Method

• Roast cashews with ghee till they are golden brown and keep aside. 
• Add a small quantity of ghee to the same pan and temper the mustard seeds. Once the mustard seeds splutter, add the asafoetida, channa dal, green chillies, ginger turmeric and saute for a minute. 
• Add the rava and roast on a medium flame for about two to three minutes. 
• Turn off the heat and let it cool.
• Now add the curd to the rava and mix well. If the mixture is too thick, add some water to adjust the consistency. Let it rest for 15 minutes.
• Add eno/baking soda, coriander and salt. Mix well.
• Now the batter becomes airy when you stir. 
• Grease the idli plate with oil and place cashews in the centre, arrange some grated carrots. 
• Fill 3/4th of each Idli mould with batter. 
• Steam for 10 minutes in an Idli steamer.
• Turn off the heat and let them cook before it cools down and you can remove them from the mould. 
   

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6 Protein-Packed Snacks To Keep You Energised All Day

Protein-rich snacks: In today's fast world, staying healthy can be tough, especially when looking for quick, good-for-you snacks. It's easy to go for sugary options, but they often leave us feeling tired. That's where protein-rich snacks come in-they're like health superheroes for those of us on the move. These snacks are easy, tasty, and keep us going. In this guide, we're exploring these snacks to help you make smart choices. We want to make staying healthy simple, even when life gets chaotic. So, let's dive into the world of snacks that not only taste good but also keep you feeling great in the midst of a busy schedule.

The Power of Protein:

Protein, a fundamental macronutrient composed of amino acids, plays a pivotal role in various bodily functions. From tissue repair to immune support, healthy skin, and more, protein stands as a nutritional powerhouse. Discover the benefits of incorporating protein-rich snacks into your on-the-go routine, providing sustained energy, curbing cravings, and promoting overall well-being.
Also Read: 11 Ways to Get Enough Protein in Your Diet

Here Are 6 Protein-Packed Snacks to Keep You Energised All Day:

1. Greek Yogurt:

A readily available and convenient option, Greek yogurt proves to be a versatile snack loaded with protein, probiotics, and calcium. Opt for plain, unsweetened varieties and elevate the taste with fresh fruits, nuts, or a drizzle of honey. The combination of protein and healthy fats ensures you stay satiated and nourished throughout your bustling day.

2. Nutty Trail Mix:

Also Read: What Is The Right Time To Have Protein? Expert Reveals

Nuts and seeds emerge as excellent portable protein sources. Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, and pumpkin seeds not only pack protein but also offer fibre and essential nutrients. Create a simple trail mix by combining these gems with dried fruits, providing a satisfying and energy-boosting snack. Keep an eye on portion sizes, as the nutritional benefits make them a valuable addition to your on-the-go repertoire.

3. Eggs:

Hard-boiled eggs, a simple and easily accessible protein source, serve as a worthy substitute for less nutritious options. Complete with essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, eggs offer a balanced snack. Easily portable, they become an ideal choice to fuel your day. Adjust based on your cholesterol levels by removing the yolk if necessary.

4. Cheese:

Also Read: How Much Protein Is In An Egg White: Unveiling Facts!

Cheeses, both processed and Paneer, stand as an excellent source of protein. Packed with calcium, essential for bones and teeth, and boasting antioxidants for brain health, cheeses make a wholesome in-between meal snack. Mindful about portion sizes, you can enhance the snack by pairing it with a fruit or vegetable.

5. Plant-Based Protein Picks:

For those seeking plant-based options, consider edamame or roasted chickpeas. Edamame, young soybeans, can be seasoned lightly for a satisfying snack, while roasted chickpeas offer a crunchy, flavorful alternative. Both options provide a protein punch along with fibre, making them excellent choices for sustained energy. Traditional Indian snack, Bhuna Chana, adds vital minerals like manganese, iron, zinc, phosphorus, and magnesium, contributing to protection against non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
Achieving health on the move is within reach through mindful selection of protein-packed snacks. From Greek yogurt to nuts, hard-boiled eggs, and plant-based alternatives, the options cater to diverse dietary preferences. By making informed choices and integrating these nutritious snacks into your daily routine, you empower your body with essential nutrients, promoting overall health and well-being, even in the midst of a hectic schedule.
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed within this article are the personal opinions of the author. NDTV is not responsible for the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information in this article. All information is provided on an as-is basis. The information, facts or opinions appearing in the article do not reflect the views of NDTV and NDTV does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.

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Badusha: Try This Deep-Fried Sweet Treat From South India

On a frenetic day where I wandered through Jerusalem's many food markets, I tried the Luqaimat, which translates to bites from Arabic. These deep-fried balls made with all-purpose flour or maida transported me straight back to Diwali celebrations at home. The Badusha is one of the quintessential sweets on most Diwali sweet menus in many South Indian homes. Diwali used to be a time when multiple sweets were homemade in many homes. The practice continues even though it's easy to buy Diwali hampers or pre-packaged sweet packs from sweet shops. It's not just a Diwali speciality.

Also Read: Indian Cooking Tips: How To Make Halbai - An Irresistible South Indian Dessert From Karnataka

Almost every region in the world has sweet treats that are crafted with frying flour or maida and then tossed in sugar syrup or powdered sugar. The Luqaimat is just one example. The origin story of the Badusha points to the Mughals who are believed to have brought it to South India. The name adds credence to this theory. The Badusha is not very different from the Balushahi, a popular delicacy in states like Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. Multiple variations of the Balushahi also come in different shapes including smaller, diamond-cut balushahi. Some versions are also filled with nuts or mawa. In many ways, these fried sweet treats are also the precursor to the modern doughnut as we know it.

The Badusha is quite similar to the Balushahi or Rajasthan's Makhan Bada in Rajasthan that comes with an indent in the center that makes it resemble a South Indian style vada. But there's a subtle difference in texture - the Badusha tends to be less crunchy than its Northern Indian counterparts. It's both soft and flaky.

I've also noticed that the Badusha is less sweet, especially in some homes and sweet shops. This can be tweaked with the amount of sugar syrup. It also makes it an ideal accompaniment with filter coffee and a savoury snack like a mixture. It's what many homes in Tamil Nadu call Sweet, karam (spicy snack), and kaapi (or filter coffee). While Badushas have traditionally been made in a standard size, quite a few sweet shops have introduced a bite-sized version or what they call a 'mini badusha'. There are multiple sweet shops in Chennai like Grand Sweets or Suswaad where you can buy an authentic version of badusha. You can also try to make it at home with this recipe.

Also Read: Rava Kesari: The South Indian Dessert with a Sprinkle of Saffron

_{Photo Credit: iStock}

Badusha Recipe: How To Make Badusha At Home:

Ingredients:

• Maida -250gm
• Ghee - 75 gm
• Curd - 3 tablespoons (thick, fresh curd works best)
• Baking powder - a pinch
• Sugar - 250 gm
• Oil - for frying.

Method:

• Whisk the curd with the ghee and baking powder.
• Add maida and knead it to a tight soft dough.
• Keep covered with a moist cloth for 15 minutes.
• Apply oil in your palm as you knead again and split the dough into thick discs or pedas. Press gently in the centre as you knead.
• Add 1/4 cup water to a pan. Heat on a low flame as you blend in the sugar. Keep stirring the water and sugar till you reach a thick 'two string' consistency and then turn off the stove.
• Pour oil into another pan and fry the pedas on a low flame.
• Use a fork to ensure the pedas are fried evenly (adding one at a time) Turn when one side turns golden once both sides are done remove from the flame. This is the key step and requires extra patience. Ensure the pedas are done (there is a tendency for them to be underdone)
• Use a tissue to extract excess oil.
• Toss them in syrup when they are still warm. Remove after a few minutes and place on a greased plate.
• You know the badusha is done well once they are slightly crunchy on the outside and soft in the centre with a glistening finish (from the sugar syrup).

You can garnish the badusha with finely chopped almonds or pista.

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What Is Farro? Here Are 4 Health Benefits Of This Ancient Grain

As people are becoming more conscious about their diets, common grains are gaining popularity for numerous health benefits. If you keep a tab on how many calories you consume in a day or are just looking for a way to shed extra kilos, then incorporating whole grains in your diet can do wonders for your body. We are sure you must have heard about the benefits of eating oats, barley, and buckwheat, but there is this other lesser-known grain that has been around for hundreds of years called Farro. It is rich in proteins, fibres and antioxidants and a healthy alternative to your usual refined grains. Intrigued? Read on to learn more about this ancient grain.

Also Read: On A Diet? Turn Your Greens Into Meals With These Deliciously Healthy Grain Salad Recipes

What Is Farro?

Farro is an ancient wheat grain that has a rich history of being enjoyed as a gourmet food. This ancient grain is common in Ethiopian, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern cuisines, but has recently gained global recognition for its nutritional components and health benefits. Farro is generally used in soups, desserts and salads. Taste-wise, this ancient grain has a mild nutty flavour and a chewy texture. Farro is a versatile and nutritious alternative to quinoa, rice, spelt, buckwheat and other such grains.

Farro is rich in fibre and other nutrients.
Photo Credit: iStock

Is Farro Gluten Free?

Unfortunately, Farro is not gluten-free. Farro is a type of wheat so it does contain protein gluten. Therefore, it cannot be consumed if you are looking to follow a gluten-free diet. However, according to research published in 2018, Farro contains less gluten than many other modern strains of wheat. So people who have gluten intolerance should avoid eating it.

Here Are 5 Health Benefits Of Farro

1. Rich in Nutrients

Farro, the ancient grain, is extremely nutritious. It is rich in fibre, protein, magnesium, zinc and some B vitamins that can be beneficial for your body if consumed on a regular basis. Farro is a much better alternative for your diet instead of consuming white rice and other refined grains. As per the United States Department of Agriculture, 100 grams of farro can provide you with 

• 362 calories
• 12.77 grams protein
• 2.13 grams fat
• 10.6 grams fiber
• 72.34 grams carbohydrates

2. Rich in Fibre

Struggling with constipation or any other digestive issue? Then having a bowl of farro can help you with it. Farro is packed with insoluble dietary fibres that can boost your digestive system, prevent constipation and promote a healthy gut microbiome. According to a study published in 2009, having a diet high in fibre can help lower the risk of chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes and heart disease.

Eating a bowl of Farro can keep you full and satisfied for long.
Photo Credit: iStock

3. Weight Management

If you are bored of traditional whole grain fibres that you consume to lose weight, then switch to Farro. As mentioned above, Farro is rich in insoluble fibres. Modern-day diets lack fibres which don't keep you full for long. However, the components of farro can help you lose those extra kilos. The proteins and fibres present in this ancient grain may help reduce your appetite and keep you full for a long. Farro has a low glycemic index which means it is digested slowly.

4. Rich in Antioxidants

It is a common myth that only fruits and vegetables contain antioxidants. Farro, the whole grain, is also packed with antioxidants like polyphenols, selenium, and carotenoids, that help work against oxidative stress which could lead to diabetes and heart diseases. As per a review published in the Journal of Food Science, Farro also contains anti-inflammatory properties. 

Were you aware of the health benefits of Farro? Let us know in the comments below!

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Looking For A Healthy Lunch Sabzi? Try This Keto Gobhi Pepper Fry Today

Many times, we struggle with what to eat during our weight loss journey. Sure, we have several low-carb, fat-free options available in the market currently. But every once in a while, we crave homecooked food being enjoyed from the comfort of our house. If you are someone who is looking for a quick and easy-to-make recipe suggestion, something that you can quickly whip up after a long day at the office, then fret not. We have come up with an easy Keto Gobhi Pepper Fry recipe that's not just visually appealing but also packed with nutrition. Read on to know more!

Also Read: Watch: This Bharwan Fried Gobhi With Creamy Filling Is A Perfect Tea-Time Snack (Recipe Video)

Keto Gobhi Pepper Fry Recipe: This recipe is easy to make and delicious.
Photo Credit: iStock

Can You Eat Gobhi (Cauliflower) On A Keto Diet?

It's a common misconception that you cannot eat every vegetable while being on keto, but cauliflower does not fall in that category. So, the short answer is YES! You can eat cauliflower while being on a keto diet. According to the California Department of Education, one floret of cauliflower contains 13 calories and 2.66 grams of carbs. This low-carb veggie makes for an excellent ingredient in your weight loss journey.

Why Is Keto Gobhi Pepper Fry So Good?

Not just for its simple and incredible taste, but gobhi pepper fry is so good because it's easy to make. This keto recipe does not require many ingredients from your pantry and can be prepared in under 30 minutes. This dish can be consumed as a side dish with your healthy bowl of dal or even without it as a snack. The best thing about this dish is that it's nutritious. Gobhi or Cauliflower is a rich source of vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin B6, potassium, fibre, phosphorus, etc. As per WebMD, cauliflower is rich in glucosinolates, which when chewed and digested, may help prevent cancer. Green peppers, on the other hand, are rich in iron and other nutrients.

Keto Gobhi Pepper Fry Recipe: This recipe is healthy and flavourful.
Photo Credit: iStock

How To Make Keto Gobhi Pepper Fry | Easy To Make Keto Gobhi Pepper Fry Recipe | Keto Gobhi Pepper Fry Recipe For Home

As mentioned above, this keto gobhi pepper fry recipe is easy to make and can be prepared in under 30 minutes. This nutritious dish can be with simple ingredients from your pantry and makes for an excellent lunch box recipe for when you want to restrict your calories even while working in an office. To make this keto gobhi pepper fry, you need to cook onions and peppers until they are soft. Add gobhi and spices and let it cook for 15 to 20 minutes. And it's done! Serve this delicious keto recipe to your friends and family.

Want a step-by-step guide to making Keto Gobhi Pepper Fry? Read the full recipe here.

Bonus Tip:

You can eat this keto gobhi pepper fry alongside your usual bowl of dal or just as a standalone dish with mint raita. You can even serve this recipe alongside easy-to-make Keto coconut rice and enhance the goodness of your meal. Find its recipe here.

Also Read: Indo-Chinese Recipe: How To Make Chilli Gobhi At Home

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Say Goodbye To Wrinkles And Fine Lines With Gur Chana Snack - Your New Beauty Secret

The combination of jaggery (gur) and roasted chickpeas (chana) is a traditional Indian snack that was widely consumed before most of us shifted to packaged and processed snacks. If you too had forgotten this superfood combination, it is time to bring it back into your diet. Jaggery and roasted chickpeas combine to make a delicious snack that improves your health as well as boosts your beauty. Need we say more? Read on to learn how these humble ingredients can benefit your skin and overall health.

Nutritionist Leema Mahajan has shared how to combine gur chana to make this healthy snack, which is a powerhouse of protein and healthy carbohydrates. This can also be a great pre-workout snack, thanks to its energy and protein content. According to the nutritionist, the best time to have gur chana is after lunch. Watch the Instagram video here:

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Why Gur Chana Is Brilliant For Your Skin

Here is how this snack enhances your skin health and beauty:

• Anti-Ageing And Skin Tone Correction

Gur has anti-ageing properties and is a natural source of glycolic acid, which has various benefits for the skin, including reducing fine lines and ageing spots as well as correcting uneven skin tone.

• Reduces Wrinkles And Fine Lines

When consumed with chana, the magnesium within the chana helps reduce wrinkles and fine lines for healthy, glowing skin.

Also Read: Why Should You Consume Jaggery (Gur) in Winter?

Health Benefits Of Gur Chana Snack

Here are some incredible health benefits of this superfood combo, as shared by the nutritionist:

• Protects Against Infections

Gur chana is loaded with minerals like zinc and selenium, which successively help prevent free-radical damage and also boost resistance against infections.

• Strengthens Muscles

The combination of jaggery and chana assists in strengthening your muscles as it is high in protein. Jaggery is a rich source of potassium which helps in building your muscles.

• Prevents Tooth Decay

Regular consumption of gur chana helps prevent tooth decay as it has high phosphorus content.

• Healthy For Pregnant Women

Being rich in folate and B6, it is an excellent and must-have snack for pregnant women.

Also Read: From Weight Loss To Bone Health: 5 Health Benefits Of Munching On Roasted Chana

How To Make Gur Chana Snack At Home

Pound 1 cup of jaggery and add it to a pan. Put the pan on the heat and keep stirring until it melts completely. Add 1 and a half cups chana along with its crunchy skin into the pan and mix it well. You can also add half a cup of black and white sesame seeds. Mix well so they coat all over the gur chana mix. Let the gur chana cool down and dry completely. Store it in an airtight container and enjoy.

Do you like this superfood recipe? Click here for more jaggery recipes that are good for your health.

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