Red Chana gravy

Red Chana gravy
Ingredients
1 Cup Red gram chana, soaked overnight then pressure cooked,
1 Tomato cut in small pieces,
1 Potato small size washed n cut into pieces,
1 Green chilly broken into pieces,
A small piece of Ginger cut into very small pieces,
4 - 5 pieces of Raddish cut in big pieces, opt.
For tempering . ..
1 Tbsp Oil,
1\2 Tsp Cumin seeds,
1\8 Tsp Asafoetida,
1\4 Tsp Turmeric powder along with 1\ 2 Tsp Red
chilly powder both mixed in one cup water.
1 Tsp Coriander powder,
1\4 Tsp Garam masala,
1\4 Tsp Pav bhaji masala,
1\4 Tsp Sugar,
1 Tbsp Tamarind sweet chutney,
Salt to taste.
Method
Put a pan to heat, add oil and then add cumin and
asafoetida.
Quickly add the red chilly + turmeric water.
Now add all cut vegetables and rest of the masalas.
Also add the pressure cooked chana, allow a boil to
appear.
Put a lid, cook on low flames for 10 - 12 minutes.
When done a little oil will appear on top.
Check the taste.
A simple garnish of tomato n onion slice.
Best with steaming rice, kadhi and chana along with
loads of onions.

do u know . . . “Fruit of the Angels”

do u know . . . “Fruit of the Angels”
Papaya, a fruit which is available throughout the year, it is deliciously sweet. What is not well known is that Papaya has a lot of hidden benefits for skin, health and hair.
Papaya is very beneficial because ‘Papain’ commonly known as Papaya Enzyme is a kind of enzyme which is helpful in digesting proteins.
“Fruit of the Angels” as it Stops Cancer in Its Tracks.
Christopher Columbus discovered it in Mexico and called it the “fruit of the angels.”
Some people think he chose the name because of the fruit’s heavenly taste, unbelievable juiciness, and out-of-this-world scent.
But beyond its taste and aroma, scientists have confirmed this fruit’s ability to stop cancer growth. Nor do its health benefits stop with cancer. Keep reading to discover everything this “super fruit” can do for you…
Papaya’s orange-yellow-pink coloring is the visible sign of an awesome group of cancer-fighting carotenoids.
Papaya is also a naturally occurring blood thinner that can reduce your risk of blood clots and optimize blood flow.
Papaya seeds also promote a healthy heart, by way of three powerful antioxidants i. e vitamins A, C, and E.
Papaya’s high fiber also has a cholesterol-controlling effect on your body.
Unfortunately, as you age, your body’s own production of digestive enzymes goes down, leaving you with excessive undigested proteins that can cause a shortfall of amino acids and an excess of unwanted bacteria and other toxins.
If undigested proteins penetrate your gut and escape into your bloodstream, they are treated by your immune system as invaders. Too many of these escapees, and your immune system gets overworked and can’t keep up. Eating papaya counteracts that problem, aids digestion and also helps replenish friendly intestinal bacteria. Papain provides the proteolytic power you need to free up your immune system to do its normal work.
Proteolytic enzymes can also digest and destroy the defense mechanisms of viruses, tumors, allergens, yeasts, and some types of fungus.
Always remember like bananas, papayas turn from green to yellow as they ripen, which happens quickly at room temperature or in a paper bag.
Tips 2 buy fruits . . .
Choose a papaya that has a yellow or orange skin and feels a bit soft to the touch. Its ready to eat.
Who needs this . . 
Papaya is also fruitful for treating the dark spots of the skin.
So what are u waiting for?
Just do this much ...
The application of mashed pipe papaya with or without milk on your face can help in removing the dark spots and evens out the skin tone which results into a fairer and glowing skin.
Get a hydrated skin, mix mashed papaya with honey and apply on your face. Even moisturizing the skin is applying papaya on it.
Or if want skin tightening, apply mashed papaya mixed with honey and rice-flour for 15 - 20 minutes.
Do u want more papaya packs for the face ...
If skin tans and brightening the complexion with papaya also need to add yogurt, honey, lemon juice and egg white in it.
So do u agree ' papaya is good for health.'

Long grained rice the best known is Basmati...

Long grained rice the best known is Basmati, the best rice to use for separate, fluffy grains is basmati. This has long, thin, pointed grains, and is more expensive than others but, since cooking is about flavor, it is the one to buy as it has a far superior taste.
Always measure rice by volume and not by weight so use a measuring jug|cup.
Then for cooking the quantity of liquid you will need is roughly double the volume of rice of hot water or stock.
Methods of cooking rice . . .
Open Pan method or excess water is where rice is cooked in lots of water just like potatoes or pasta, then drained in a colander. Bring a large pan of water to the boil. When it comes to a boil then stir well. Lower the heat to a fast simmer and cook according to the variety. Drain in a colander and allow to stand for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork and adding a little butter, ghee or oil (optional).
Covered Pan or absorption method is where the rice is cooked with a measured amount of water in a covered pan. The rice absorbs the water completely and is not drained. Measurement of water 2 measures water to 1 measure of dry rice.
Soaking times can be from 5-30 minutes. The longer the soaking, the shorter the cooking time. Best is shorten the cooking time, soak the rice in the water before cooking.
But still remember use a little less water than the recipes call for if you want fluffy rice. The ratio of rice to water should be a little less than 1:2. It is important to fluff the rice with a fork and serve.

"Snacking ....

"Snacking keeps your metabolism revved up and is a great way to boost your energy," says Tara Gidus, RD, a spokesperson for the 
American Dietetic Association. But not just any old snack will do. You need a snack that's full of nutrients to power you through your between-meal stretch.
For a healthy snack see if it contains a good source of fiber, protein or whole grain and not too much fat, sugar or salt.
Fresh Bananas and Apples are loaded with vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, fruit is great for times when you need a little energy boost. Choose any fruit you like bananas, apples, and oranges are easy to carry with you.
When you need a bigger energy boost "You'll have the carbs in the yogurt and cereal for energy, and the protein from the yogurt, which makes you feel full longer".
Popcorn is a great snack because you get a lot of volume and fiber as it makes you feel full, and it's a whole grain, so it's healthier than any other snack.
Even Vegetables offer good carbs and fiber, plus loads of nutrients and vitamins, which help fill you up and add nutrition to your diet.
How about hummus as it adds some protein to your snack.
Almonds and Walnuts make for a wonderful snack.
Have u ever tried Whole grain crackers, whole wheat tortilla with hummus.
A healthy snacking tip 4 all . . .
Whenever you choose to snack, take a few minutes to enjoy what you are eating, eat it slowly and mindfully. Take snacks out of large containers, place them on small plates and pay attention to the taste and flavors to maximize your eating enjoyment.

Few Cooking Terms . . .

Few Cooking Terms . . .
Baste means to moisten foods during cooking with drippings, water or seasoned sauce, to prevent drying or to add flavor.
Blend means to mix two or more ingredients until smooth.
or
Blend is to combine ingredients together to a desired consistency.
Brush means to spread food with butter or margarine or egg, using a small brush.
Bind is to add an agent or ingredient, such as an egg, to a dish.
Crumb is to cover in a coating of breadcrumbs before frying or baking, to give a crisp finish.
or
Bind to hold together.
Coat means to roll foods in flour, nuts, sugar, crumbs until all sides are evenly covered.
Cream means to beat ingredients, usually butter, or butter and sugar.
Dredge is sprinkle, coat or cover with flour, crumbs, cornmeal or other seasoned mixture.
Dust is sprinkle a food or coat lightly with flour, sugar, cornmeal or cocoa powder.
or
Dust is to decorate a cake or dessert with a fine, even coating of icing sugar or cocoa powder.
Mix is to stir, usually with a spoon.
Fold means to combine ingredients lightly and delicately.
Rub is to coat flour grains with fat, usually butter, by mixing the chopped fat through the flour.

The word "pineapple"

The word "pineapple" in English was first recorded in 1398 and 
ananas, the original name of the fruit, comes from the Tupi word nanas, meaning "excellent fruit" as recorded by Andre Thevet in 1555.
How does it grow?
In appearance, the plant itself has a short, stocky stem with tough, waxy leaves. When creating its fruit, it usually produces up to 200 flowers, although some large-fruited cultivars can exceed this. Once it flowers, the individual fruits of the flowers join together to create what is commonly referred to as a pineapple. After the first fruit is produced, side shoots called 'suckers' by commercial growers are produced in the leaf axils of the main stem. These may be removed for propagation, or left to produce additional fruits on the original plant. In the first year of growth, the axis lengthens and thickens, bearing numerous leaves in close spirals.
The flesh and juice of the pineapple are used in cuisines around the world. The juice of the pineapple is served as a beverage, and is also as a main ingredient in such cocktails as the Pina colada.
Have u ever eaten sliced pineapple which is sold on roadsides as a snack?
Raw pineapple is an excellent source of manganese and vitamin C.
did u know . .
The Big Pineapple is a tourist attraction on the Sunshine Coast in South East Queensland, Australia. It is 16 metre high and was originally opened on the 15 of August 1971.
A FACT . . . a pineapple plant flowers only once, and produces one pineapple. Then it dies. But before it dies it also produces offspring.
Buying tip ...
Select a pineapple that is plump and fresh-looking. The leaves in the crown should be fresh and green, and the body of the pineapple firm. Look for pineapples that are heavy for their size.
A cooking tip ...
Add pineapple to a marinade to flavor and tenderize your meat of choice. Pineapple is a wonderful addition to fruit salads also.
Why eat it?
Pineapples are loaded with vitamins and minerals including vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, phosphorus, and potassium. It is also rich in fiber and calories. Eat them as they have exceptional juiciness and a vibrant tropical flavor that balances the tastes of sweet and tart.

Why eat Cucumbers . . .

Why eat Cucumbers . . .
Cucumbers are number four most cultivated vegetable in the world and known to be one of the best foods for your overall health.
If you are too busy to drink enough water, eat the cool cucumber, which is 90 percent water.
Cucumber fights heat inside and out meaning eating cucumber will get your body relief from heartburn. Apply cucumber on your skin and you will get relief from sunburn.
Do u know that Cucumber eliminates toxins from the body .
Cucumbers have most of the vitamins the body needs in a single day. A B and C, which boost your immune system keep you radiant and give you energy.