CAJSA At ITC Gardenia Is The Latest Twist In ITC Hotels' Restaurant Journey

The name takes a few twists of the tongue to get right. It's almost like the innovative menu that is full of delicious twists. If this was a speakeasy, we'd be tempted to use CAJSA as the secret password to gain entry into ITC Hotels' newest restaurant. Of course, you'd have to get the pronunciation right. CAJSA (pronounced as Kazza) is the Greek word for 'Pure' and according to ITC Hotels, represents the ethos of simplicity. It's essentially global flavours with a twist. 

Stays on course

The parallels with Avartana are not difficult to miss. That restaurant began its journey in ITC Grand Chola, Chennai in 2017 with a bold new vision for Southern Indian cuisine. Almost eight years later, it's won heaps of awards and accolades and has expanded its footprint to include five marquee ITC hotels. CAJSA follows the same approach of tasting menus with a choice of seven, nine and eleven-course menus that range from Rs 2,500 to Rs 3,500. The pricing is a clear indication that CAJSA is competing with Bengaluru's ever expanding list of top notch standalone restaurants that appeal to the city's gourmands and Gen Z alike. 

Photo Credit: ITC Gardenia

Minimalist vibe 

CAJSA opts for a minimalist ambience. It's mostly pristine white with carefully chosen artworks providing the only splashes of colour. It's almost designed so that you focus on the large live kitchen where a young culinary team led by Chef Shubham Sharma works their magic. A small bar is tucked away in a corner of the restaurant and focuses on CAJSA's list of seven signature cocktails. We'd recommend the Eastern Old Fashioned that combines wasabi oil, ume plums and whisky with a citrus foam done absolutely right. If you're a fan of smooth Speyside-style malts, do check out the Caribbean Empress that blends Glenlivet's Caribbean Reserve (aged in Rum casks) with coconut, vanilla bourbon and pear chips with a smoky finish. 

A fascinating culinary detour

Anuj Sood, the Executive Chef of ITC Gardenia began with a simple brief to create a global dining experience. He worked with a team of chefs from Gardenia and Manisha Bhasin, the Corporate Executive Chief of ITC hotels to fashion the culinary template for CAJSA. It's no coincidence that Anuj (Just like Chef Ajit Bangera who was part of the launch team of Avartana, ITC Grand Chola) honed his skills in Melbourne, one of the world's most exciting and inclusive food capitals of the world. 

Lobster Lux
Photo Credit: ITC Gardenia

Flavour bombs all the way 

Chef Shubham is particularly excited about CAJSA's Hickory smoked farm-raised chicken, 
smoked with hickory wood and layered in Bearnaise sauce. This one will certainly play out well on your Instagram Feed with all the accompanying theatrics. The other favourite of the culinary team is the Lobster Lux that seeks inspiration from the traditional preparation of the classic French Lobster Thermidor. But it's the choice of local ingredients like Lobster from Kerala, kasundi sauce and an edible gold leaf finish that sets this apart. Our pick however is the potted mushroom pate. This was the first course of the day and set the tone for our CAJSA journey with umami overtones. Our nine-course option included two dessert options including Go Bananas that pays tribute to Bengaluru's very own yellaki banana and is served with a decadent miso caramel ice cream. 

Potted mushroom pate
Photo Credit: ITC Gardenia

Will travel for food 

After Avartana in ITC Grand Chola in Chennai, Yi Jing in ITC Kohenur in Hyderabad that pushed ITC Hotels' bold new vision for Chinese cuisine, CAJSA becomes the third restaurant brand to emerge from its luxury hotels in South India. While the classic ITC brands like Dum Pukht or Dakshin were built around a strong adherence to classic traditions and recipes, CAJSA is clearly a brand with a 2020s vision including sustainable ingredients, a tribute to the new age of well-heeled Indians who will travel for food. If you're in Bengaluru, you only have to travel as far as ITC Gardenia. 

CAJSA is at ITC Gardenia and is open for dinner (7:00 to 11:30 pm). 

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Heading Out? 15 New Menus In Delhi-NCR Restaurants To Try In March-April 2025

As the seasons transition from winter to summer, our desire for exploration and trying new things kicks in. For food enthusiasts, this is the perfect time to discover fresh flavours and cuisines. With the arrival of summer, top restaurants in Delhi-NCR have unveiled exciting new menus, packed with seasonal delights. From savoury snacks and refreshing drinks to decadent desserts, these menus offer a world of flavours to indulge in. They're a treat for the senses, and you won't want to miss out. Check out the latest offerings below.

Here Are New Menus You Must Check Out In Delhi-NCR:

1. The Lodhi

Elan at The Lodhi presents its new Dim Sum Lunch, a culinary journey celebrating global flavours. Available Monday to Thursday, this exclusive experience combines fine dining with socialising. The non-vegetarian dim sum selection features dishes like Nam-jim Chicken Rice Balls, Thai Style Money Bag Chicken, and Pork Pot Sticker. Vegetarian options include Pokchoy Wrapped Vegetable Dumplings and Sichuan Vegetable Bao. Each dish is crafted with fresh ingredients and inspired by international flavours. The Dim Sum Lunch at Elan is a must-try for food connoisseurs. With its elegant atmosphere and innovative cuisine, Elan promises an unforgettable dining experience.

• Where: Elan, The Lodhi, CGO Complex, Pragati Vihar, New Delhi
• When: 12 PM - 3:30 PM

Photo Credit: The Lodhi

2. Sorbo

Sorbo, a Moroccan-inspired restaurant in Gurgaon, has launched a revamped cocktail menu that elevates the drinking experience. Inspired by Moroccan flavours and modern mixology, the menu boasts bold flavours and exquisite craftsmanship. Each cocktail is a masterful blend of spice, citrus, and aromatics, featuring handcrafted infusions and house-made syrups. From saffron and cinnamon to mint and citrus, every sip captures Morocco's vibrant spirit. Priced between INR 500 to INR 1,500, the menu offers something for everyone. Sorbo's bar invites guests to explore the world of Moroccan mixology. With its innovative cocktails, Sorbo promises a unique drinking experience.

• Where: Sorbo, SCO 10,11, Golf Avenue, 42, Golf Course Road, Sector 42, Gurugram
• When: 12:30 pm - 2:00 am

Photo Credit: Sorbo

3. CHO

Step into the world of bold flavours at CHO - Asian Terrace & Cocktail Bar in New Delhi, where the exclusive Dragon Festival menu is available from February 21 to March 23, 2025. Inspired by Chinatown's vibrant cuisine, this limited-time menu offers a diverse selection of handcrafted dim sum, broths, wok-tossed specialties, and indulgent desserts. From delicately balanced small plates to comforting soups and hearty mains, each dish reflects the rich culinary traditions of China. Experience a perfect blend of premium ingredients and expert craftsmanship, culminating in sweet treats that offer the ideal end to a memorable meal.

• Where: CHO, 5/1,1st Floor, Ambawatta One Complex, LHS Kalkadas Marg, Mehrauli, New Delhi

Photo Credit: CHO

4. L'Opéra

L'Opera, Delhi's premier French Patisserie-Boulangerie and Salon de The proudly welcomes its new Head Chef, Amelie Duthel, who brings her expertise and passion for fine pastry to the establishment. Alongside this exciting appointment, L'Opera has unveiled a refreshed menu that embodies authentic French gastronomy with a modern touch. The menu features a selection of exquisite appetisers, hearty main courses, and refined delicacies, all crafted with premium ingredients. Diners can savour a flavourful brown rice dish with exotic vegetables, succulent grilled chicken breast paired with velvety mashed potatoes, and an array of gourmet appetisers. 

• Where: L'Opéra, all outlets in Delhi-NCR

Photo Credit: L'Opéra

5. Hyatt Regency Delhi

Hyatt Regency Delhi is hosting a culinary pop-up event featuring Goan cuisine, curated by renowned Chef Avinash Martins. On March 28-29, Syrah will showcase a specially crafted menu that celebrates Goa's diverse flavours and traditions. Chef Martins' innovative dishes blend traditional Goan flavours with modern techniques, using local ingredients and unique flavour combinations. The menu includes signature dishes like Goa's Crowning Jewel and South Side Xacutti, along with gluten-free and vegan-friendly options. Expertly paired beverages, including creative cocktails and whiskey-based concoctions, will complement the menu.

• Where: Hyatt Regency Delhi
• When: 8 pm onwards

Photo Credit: Hyatt Regency Delhi 

6. Bo-Tai 

Beat the summer heat with a Thai-inspired escape at Bo-Tai, Qutub, where every meal evokes the vibrant streets of Bangkok and the serene beaches of Phuket. Set in a lush alfresco space, this culinary haven offers refreshing cocktails and a menu brimming with tropical flavours. Indulge in dishes that capture the essence of Thai cuisine, from crisp, zesty bites to rich, coconut-infused curries and smoky, spice-laden grills. Complementing the feast, Bo-Tai's signature cocktails, infused with fragrant Thai herbs and island fruits, elevate the experience. With stunning views of the Qutub Minar, this stylish retreat is perfect for a lively brunch, a relaxed business lunch, or a leisurely afternoon escape. 

• Where: Bo-Tai, Qutub, Mehrauli, New Delhi

Photo Credit: Bo-Tai

7. MKT

As summer sets in, MKT at The Chanakya welcomes the season with a refreshing new cocktail menu, celebrating bold flavours and innovative mixology. Crafted with fresh, seasonal ingredients, each drink is designed to complement warm, leisurely days. From fruity and tangy concoctions to smoky, spice-infused blends, the menu offers a vibrant selection of cocktails and mocktails to suit every palate. Prioritising local and organic ingredients, MKT's drinks are expertly crafted using innovative techniques to elevate the experience. Whether you're in the mood for a refreshing cooler or a bold, spirited sip, these summer specials promise to keep you cool and refreshed all season long.

• Where: MKT, The Chanakya Mall, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi

Photo Credit: MKT

8. Encanto 

This season, Encanto invites you to experience a new chapter of flavor and surprise. Our vibrant Mexican retreat in Gurugram now offers a bold lineup of signature cocktails. Inspired by Mexico's soulful streets, these drinks are crafted to stir your senses. Try our new signature cocktails: Calavera Cooler, Guadalajara, Morelia, Merida, and Encanto Picante. Each one is a unique experience. Come and sip, savor, and salsa your way through an evening at Encanto. Every moment is magical at Encanto.

• Where: Encanto, The Boulevard, Golf Course Ext Road, Sector 58, Gurugram

Photo Credit: Encanto

9. Easy Tiger By Boraan

Easy Tiger by Boraan is celebrating Songkran, the Thai New Year, with a limited-edition menu from April 11th to 30th. This special menu reimagines Thai traditions with bold, contemporary flair. Songkran is a festival of renewal and celebration, marked by symbolic water fights. At Easy Tiger, this transformation happens on the plate, with dishes that tell a story of freshness and vibrancy. Founder Scotchie Kandhari says the menu is designed to transport guests to Thailand with bright, zesty flavours. The menu features refreshing small plates, indulgent textures, and dishes crafted to awaken the senses. Guests can indulge in a culinary journey through Thailand. The celebration is happening at Easy Tiger's Gurgaon location.

• Where: Easy Tiger By Boraan, Mehrauli-Gurgaon Road, Sikanderpur, Sector 26, Gurugram

Photo Credit: Easy Tiger By Boraan

10. Shangri-La Eros New Delhi

Shangri-La Eros New Delhi's Shang Palace introduces Golden Chopsticks, an exquisite Cantonese lunch menu. This curated menu offers an elegant selection of dim sum, signature appetisers, refined main courses, and decadent desserts. Shang Palace presents an authentic Cantonese culinary experience with a worldly ambiance. The menu features handcrafted dim sum, comforting soups, and meticulously prepared main courses. Guests can choose from a variety of dishes, including succulent clay pot chicken and vibrant Chinese greens. The meal is complete with signature pot rice and wok-fried noodles. The experience ends with a delicious warm toffee pudding.

• Where: Shangri-La Eros New Delhi

Photo Credit: Shangri-La Eros

11. Adrift Kaya, JW Marriot Delhi 

Adrift Kaya undergoes a striking transformation every night at 10:30 PM, unveiling Neon Nights-a vibrant tribute to Tokyo's buzzing after-hours culture. Launching on March 21st at JW Marriott New Delhi Aerocity, this unique concept is the brainchild of Michelin-starred Chef David Myers. It redefines nightlife by blending the electric energy of Japan's underground scene with elevated Japanese cuisine. Much like the neon-lit streets of Shinjuku and Shibuya, Neon Nights offers a sensory thrill. A hush-hush menu tempts adventurous diners with creations like Toro Tartare, Sweet Corn Tofu Tempura, and Yakitori Chicken Meatballs. Signature cocktails like the fiery Fire Akuma and the delicate Coco Geisha complete the experience.

• Where: Adrift Kaya, JW Marriott Delhi

Photo Credit: JW Marriott Delhi

12. Guppy

Spring has arrived in full swing, and Guppy is celebrating with the return of its much-loved Hanami festival. This annual event pays homage to cherry blossoms, seasonal flavours, and the joy of new beginnings. Step into a dreamy, pink-hued space adorned with soft blooms and twinkling lights, perfect for a laid-back brunch or a fun evening out. The specially curated Hanami menu features fresh, vibrant dishes inspired by the season, along with a playful cocktail lineup that's light, fruity, and perfect for spring sipping. From zesty drinks to flavour-packed plates, every detail channels the spirit of Japan's iconic blossom festival. Add in upbeat live music and cozy vibes, and Guppy becomes the ultimate spot to toast to springtime joy.

• Where: 28, Main Market, Lodhi Colony, New Delhi

Photo Credit: Guppy

13. Sundays Just Got a Splash More Fun at Le Méridien Gurgaon with 'Cocktails & Caricatures'

This April, Le Meridien Gurgaon, Delhi NCR is turning the ordinary into the extraordinary with a unique brunch experience that promises to stir your senses and tickle your imagination. Titled "Cocktails & Caricatures", this immersive brunch series will be hosted on the 6th, 13th, and 27th of April from 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM at the hotel's signature restaurant, Latest Recipe.
Crafted for those who enjoy their Sundays vibrant and full of flavour, this brunch is far from typical. Guests can sip on fine spirits including Russian Standard Vodka, Arthaus Whisky, and Zoya Gin, as they revel in a lively ambience complete with live music and whimsical caricature artists. While adults indulge in a curated liquid buffet, kids can enjoy their own playful version-making it a perfect family outing.

• When: 6th, 13th & 27th April 2025
• Where: Latest Recipe, Le Meridien Gurgaon, Delhi NCR

14. McDonald's

Catering to the growing love for Korean flavors, McDonald's India is set to spice up its menu with the launch of its all-new Korean Spicy Range. Inspired by the bold and spicy flavors of Korea, this limited-time offering is designed to thrill food lovers who crave spice, excitement, and global taste experiences. McDonald's is adding a Korean twist to its spicy range and the iconic McAloo Tikki! The new Korean range features Korea's famous Gochujang sauce, a perfect blend of spice, sweetness, and umami. Enhancing the experience, the refreshing Korean Yuzu-Fizz Drink bursts with citrusy zest, perfectly balancing the heat, while the smoky and spicy Korean Spice Mix Seasoning elevates your favorite sides with an irresistible umami kick. McDonald's has curated a unique lineup of products that capture the essence of Korean spice. These new additions include Korean McAloo Tikki, Korean McSpicy Paneer, Korean McSpicy Chicken, Korean Yuzu-Fizz Drink, Korean McAvoy Fries, and Korean Spice Mix Seasoning.

Where: McDonald's India - North and East

15. Monkey Bar

Monkey Bar has unveiled its Chakna Menu - a bold and flavourful selection of bar snacks crafted to elevate your drinking experience. Packed with crispy, spiced, and umami-rich bites, the menu is the perfect companion to your favourite cocktails and beers. Indulge in Crunchy Lotus Root, Chicken Popcorn, and fiery Devil Wings, or explore coastal flavours with Malvani Spiced Calamari. Seafood lovers will enjoy the Prawn Wafers, while vegetarians can snack on Nori Crackers, Theka Nuts, and Paneer Papad Bites. Each dish is seasoned with a unique blend of Indian and global influences. Head over to Monkey Bar for a snack fest like no other - where every bite is made to match your drink!

• Where: Monkey Bar, Local Shopping Complex, 11, Vasant Kunj Rd, Pocket B-C, Sector C, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi

Photo Credit: Monkey Bar

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When In Lucknow, Shefali Shah's DMs Flood With Food Recommendations

Actor Shefali Shah enjoys travelling and exploring new places. The 'Dil Dhadakne Do' actor recently went on her first solo trip, and since then has been quite vocal about her love for travel and food on social media. Now, Shefali went to Lucknow and decided to put her Instagram handle to good use by asking locals for the best places to eat. She wrote, "Lucknow here I am! So now tell me where do I go shopping, where is the best food? Lucknowis send in your suggestions on the real gems in the city!"

Shefali's DMs got flooded with all kinds of food and shopping recommendations. The pool of messages is a treasure for anyone new to Lucknow and looking for iconic places to eat. Take a look.

Here Are 10 Foodie Recommendations For Where To Eat in Lucknow:

1. "If you want to eat proper tunday kebab you have to go to the original one in Aminabad Chowk."
2. "Eat basket chaat at Hazratganj Royal chaat."
3. "Chole bhature and lassi at Shree Lassi Chowk."
4. "Sharma ji ki chai and samosa."
5. "Everybody says Prakash Kulfi but please please try Chanakya Kulfi and their chaas too!"
6. "Please go to Shukla chaat for dahi puri or aloo chaat."
7. "Go to Naimat Khana for food."
8. "Wahid for biryani."
9. "Dastarkhwan restaurant, tunday kebab."
10. "Please try kebabs at Kingship by Kahlon."

Also Read: Actor Shefali Shah's Post On "Food For Soul" Will Leave You All Nostalgic

Along with the best places to eat, she also received shopping recommendations for Lucknow's famous Chikankari, such as "Alekhya" and "Nazrana".

Do you know any more must-try places to visit in Lucknow? Drop your recommendations in the comments below.

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Watch: Bhagyashree's Eggless Mango Cake Recipe Is The Perfect Summer Treat

Summer is here, and with it comes a fresh crop of mangoes. This tropical fruit is loved across cultures and lifestyles. You can enjoy it as it is, blend it into milkshakes or use it to make gourmet dishes. Like many of us, Bhagyashree also delights in mangoes and explores different ways to incorporate this seasonal treat into her diet. Recently, she shared an easy recipe for eggless mango cake on Instagram. And guess what? The actress herself prepared the sweet treat.

Also Read: Watch: Alia Bhatt Learns How To Make Apple Crumble From Her Mother, Burns Her Hand

In the caption, Bhagyashree wrote, "#Tuesdaytipswithb: Mango Time !!! Enjoy the rich goodness of mangoes while they last. Have them cut, as a pulp, as a shake, bake cakes, add them to puddings, make achhar, salads.... any way you want but enjoy its goodness. High on Vit A, C and full of antioxidants, this high-energy fruit can be just the thing you need to elevate your mood." 

Here is the full recipe: 

1. Add half a spoonful of vinegar to one cup of milk and let it sit for about 10 minutes.

2. In a separate bowl, mix one spoonful of ghee with one cup of oat powder.

3. Add 3–4 dates and the pulp of one mango.

4. Add one tablespoon of baking powder, followed by the milk and vinegar mixture. Mix well.

5. Grease a baking tray with olive oil and pour the batter into it.

6. Bake at 180 degrees Celsius for 30 minutes.

7. Garnish with fresh mango slices and pulp. Serve and enjoy.

Watch the full video below:

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Also Read: Guinness World Records Shares Video Of "Largest Display Of Engraved Eggs," Wows Internet

Try this recipe at home and let us know how you liked it in the comments section below.

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When Is Hanuman Jayanti 2025? Make These 5 Traditional Bhog Recipes At Home

Hanuman Jayanti is one of the major Hindu festivals celebrated with full devotion across India. The day marks the birth of Lord Hanuman and is also known as Hanuman Janmotsav. As per the Hindu calendar, Hanuman Jayanti falls every year on the full moon day (Purnima) of the Chaitra month. In 2025, the festival will be observed on 12 April. Many believe that worshipping Hanuman ji with true devotion on this day helps remove obstacles and brings strength and peace. This is also why he is known as Sankatmochan. On Hanuman Jayanti, people wake up early, take a bath, and perform special pujas at home or temples. Some also organise Sunderkand path as part of the rituals.

Also Read : Craving Motichoor Ladoos? Follow These 4 Easy Tips For Homemade Bliss

Hanuman Jayanti 2025: Date, Time And Purnima Tithi

• Hanuman Jayanti: Saturday, April 12, 2025
• Purnima Tithi Begins: 03:21 AM on April 12, 2025
• Purnima Tithi Ends: 05:51 AM on April 13, 2025

(Source: drikpanchang.com)

How Hanuman Jayanti Is Celebrated

Hanuman Jayanti is not just about worshipping Hanuman ji. Devotees also perform special pujas for Lord Ram and Sita on this day. Many people fast and only eat satvik food once the rituals are done. Hanuman ji is offered vermilion, red clothes, and a mix of fruits and sweets. Laddus are a must during Hanuman Jayanti bhog, as they are believed to be Lord Hanuman's favourite. Apart from laddus, many traditional bhog dishes are prepared at home. We have listed some of the most popular ones below.

5 Classic Bhog Recipes To Try On Hanuman Jayanti 2025

Boondi Ladoo

Boondi ladoo is a much-loved sweet offered to Lord Hanuman. It is made with gram flour (besan), along with cashews, raisins, saffron, and just a hint of cardamom. [Click here]

Meethi Boondi

Meethi boondi is a simple and traditional bhog recipe. You will need some besan, food-safe colours, and sugar syrup. This one is easy to make at home. [Click here]

Besan Ladoo

Besan ladoo is another delicious option for bhog on Hanuman Jayanti. Roast the besan in ghee, mix in powdered sugar, and add cardamom powder for flavour. [Click here]

Kesari Jalebi

Kesari jalebi fits perfectly into a festive bhog plate. The batter made with yoghurt and flour is deep-fried into jalebis, then soaked in saffron-infused sugar syrup. [Click here]

Kheer

Kheer is a timeless dessert, and no Indian celebration is really complete without it. Rice is slow-cooked with milk, khoya, sugar, and cardamom for flavour. [Click here]

Try these delicious Hanuman Jayanti recipes at home and offer your bhog with love.

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6 Anti-Inflammatory Foods You Can Easily Find In Indian Cuisine

We often associate health issues like weight gain, fatigue, or joint pain with poor lifestyle choices, but did you know that many chronic diseases stem from inflammation within the body? Inflammation is the body's natural response to injury or infection, but when it becomes chronic, it can lead to a range of issues, from digestive problems and skin disorders to heart disease and autoimmune conditions. One natural and effective way to combat inflammation is through lifestyle changes- improving sleep, managing stress, and most importantly, eating a balanced, nutrient-rich diet. Thankfully, Indian cuisine is full of anti-inflammatory foods that are both accessible and easy to incorporate into daily meals.

Also Read: 5 Eating Habits That Cause Inflammation. Stop Now!

Renowned integrative and lifestyle medicine expert Luke Coutinho highlights six powerful anti-inflammatory foods commonly found in Indian kitchens. Let's take a closer look:

Here Are 6 Anti-Inflammatory Foods You Can Find In India

1. Turmeric (Haldi)

Turmeric is one of the most potent natural anti-inflammatory agents, thanks to its active compound curcumin. Used for centuries in Indian cooking and Ayurvedic medicine, turmeric helps reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body. For better absorption, pair turmeric with black pepper, which contains the piperine compound that boosts curcumin's effectiveness.

How to use it: Add to curries, warm milk (golden milk), lentils, or even herbal teas.

2. Ginger (Adrak)

Ginger is another kitchen staple known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It contains gingerol, a compound that can reduce inflammation and has been shown to relieve pain and nausea.

How to use it: Use in curries, soups, chutneys, or steep slices in hot water for a soothing ginger tea.

3. Garlic (Lehsun)

Garlic not only adds flavour to food but also has powerful anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting benefits. It contains sulphur compounds like allicin that help lower inflammation and support heart health.

How to use it: Saute; in cooking oil for curries, dals, or spread roasted garlic on chapati or toast.

Also Read: High-Fiber Diet May Help Cut Inflammation Caused by Gout

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4. Spinach (Palak)

Spinach is rich in anti-inflammatory compounds like flavonoids, carotenoids, and vitamin E. It's also a great source of iron, magnesium, and fibre, all of which support overall health and help regulate inflammatory markers.

How to use it: Enjoy it in palak paneer, smoothies, or as a side dish with garlic and spices.

5. Moringa (Drumstick Leaves/Sahjan ke Patte)

Moringa is often called a superfood for its incredible nutritional profile. It's packed with antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and compounds that have proven anti-inflammatory effects. It's particularly effective in reducing blood sugar and cholesterol levels as well.

How to use it: Use in soups, stir-fries, or powdered form added to teas and smoothies.

6. Kidney Beans (Rajma) and Mung Dal

These legumes are not only rich in protein and fibre but also packed with antioxidants and plant-based compounds that help fight inflammation. Mung dal, in particular, is light on the digestive system and easy to absorb.

How to use them: Enjoy rajma with brown rice or mung dal as a light khichdi or soup.

Note: Always remember that not all foods suit everyone. If you notice discomfort or a reaction after eating something, it's best to avoid it. And if you have a medical condition, consult a healthcare professional before making dietary changes.

Incorporating these foods into your daily diet can be a simple yet powerful step towards reducing inflammation and improving overall health naturally.

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Why Should You Never Defrost Meat At Room Temperature (What To Do Instead)

Let us agree, most of us have done it! We take out a packet of frozen meat and leave it on the kitchen counter for hours to thaw before cooking it for dinner. Seems harmless, right? But did you know that this standard cooking practice can be a recipe for disaster? While defrosting meat on the counter might seem convenient, it lays the ground for harmful bacteria to grow and negatively affect our health, state major food safety organisations, including the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). What's worse is the fact that you can't revive the nutrition of the meat even after cooking it at high temperatures. Confused about what to do instead? Fret not, we are here to help you.

In this article, we'll explain why this common kitchen practice is considered risky and explore safer alternatives for thawing meat without compromising on taste.

Also Read: Safe Kitchen Practice: 5 Thumb Rules To Keep Your Kitchen Clean And Hygienic

Why Defrosting At Room Temperature Is A Risky Idea? Why Should You Not Thaw Meat At Room Temperature?

1. It leads to bacterial growth:

When the meat is left to defrost at room temperature, the outer layers quickly warm up, hitting what is known as the 'danger zone' - a temperature warmer than 40 degrees Fahrenheit. According to WebMD, leaving food in the mentioned temperature for more than two hours can lead to rapid growth of bacteria. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) explains that harmful bacteria such as Salmonella, Escherichia coli (E. coli), and Listeria monocytogenes can double in just 20 minutes. These germs further produce toxins, which may lead to weak immunity and food poisoning with symptoms like fever, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and more. This is exactly why the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) advises against leaving perishable foods, including raw meat, out at room temperature for more than two hours

2. You get unevenly thawed meat:

When you thaw meat at room temperature, especially the larger cuts, you will find the outer layer defrosts faster than the inner layer. This not only makes the food enter the 'danger zone' but also thaws it unevenly. Uneven thawing also impacts the taste and texture of the meat. While cooking, you could end up with dry meat, overcooked edges and a raw or rubbery center. This is why cooking experts recommend even thawing to absorb the seasoning better and make the meat tender and juicy.

Also Read: Eat Meat The Right Way! 5 Golden Rules To Remember While Handling Meat

_{Photo Credit: Pexels}

How To Understand If The Meat Is Spoiled? What Are The Common Signs Of Spoiled Meat?

1. Smell:

Always sniff the meat before starting the cooking process. The spoiled ones often have a strong, funky odour. Fresh meat never has an unpleasant sour-y smell.

2. Colour:

While slight discolouration is normal due to the meat's exposure to air, you must look for its consistency. Grey and dull hues, patchy colouring and spots are the warning signs for bacterial growth in the meat.

3. Texture:

Always run your fingers over the surface of the meat and feel the skin. Firm and moist meat is good to go, but if it is sticky and slimy, then understand that harmful bacteria have started to grow.

4. Expiry Date:

This is especially applicable for packaged meat. Always check the date of expiration before you plan to thaw and cook it. Always remember, when in doubt, throw it out!

Is It Safe To Refreeze Thawed Meat?

According to the USDA advice, you can safely refreeze defrosted meat without cooking, although there might be a loss of its quality. And if the food is previously cooked, you can re-freeze the unused portion. The organization further states that all this will be possible only when you handle and defrost the meat properly, before refreezing it.

Also Read: Kitchen Tips: 5 Mistakes We Must Avoid While Storing Food In Refrigerator

What Are The Safe Methods To Defrost Meat? What Are The Best Thawing Methods?

1. The Refrigeration Method:

Plan your meals and transfer the frozen meat from the freezer to the other section of the refrigerator. As per WebMD, this method takes somewhere between a few hours to overnight but is safest. Make sure the meat is below 40 degrees Fahrenheit the entire time. We also suggest storing it on the bottom-most shelf to avoid the risks of cross-contamination.

2. The Cold-Water Method:

For the ones looking for shortcuts, you can place the meat in a leak-proof bag and run it under cold water or submerge it in a bowl of water at a regular temperature. According to WebMD, you must make sure to change the water every 30 minutes. This way, you can thaw a packet of meat in an hour or two (depending on the size and portion).

3. The Microwave Method:

Most of the microwave ovens have a 'defrost' setting. This method is safe, quick and popular among people who have a time crunch. But as per WebMD, this method doesn't always defrost the meat evenly and somewhat cooks the outer layer. So, if you are planning to defrost meat in a microwave oven, make sure to cook it immediately.

The Bottom Line

We love freshly cooked quick meals on the dining table, but compromising on food safety is not worth the risk. So, we suggest planning your meals and doing the preparation accordingly to keep your food safe and nutritious.

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