A kadhai is one of the most frequently used utensils in our kitchens. From sauteing and deep-frying to slow-cooking, it helps with all these tasks with ease. The quality of your food often depends on the type of kadhai you’re using. If it’s not of good quality, you’ll notice that your food doesn’t turn out as well. Since it’s used extensively, you may need to replace it with a new one after some time. Are you planning to buy a new kadhai? Feeling confused about which type of kadhai would be the right pick for you? Don’t worry! We’re here to guide you. Below, we’ll share five key factors to help you make the right purchase when shopping for a kadhai. Check them out!
Here Are 5 Factors To Keep In Mind Before Buying A Kadhai:
1. Consider The Material
When buying a kadhai, the first thing to consider is the material. You’ll find kadhais made from various materials, such as aluminium, stainless steel, cast iron, and non-stick. Aluminium and stainless steel kadhais are durable and lightweight, while cast iron and non-stick kadhais are more suitable for low-oil cooking. Don’t get overwhelmed by the options – simply choose the one that suits your needs. Also Read: To Buy Or Not To Buy? 5 Key Things To Evaluate Before Buying A Chopping Board
Photo Credit: iStock
2. Assess The Size And Capacity
Next, consider the size and capacity of the kadhai. If you have a small family, a 2-3 litre kadhai would be sufficient. However, if you have a larger family, consider buying a 5-6 litre kadhai. The more capacity it has, the more food you’ll be able to cook. So, make your decision based on your family size.
3. Check The Handles
Another important aspect to consider is the handles of the kadhai. Let’s face it, we frequently touch the handles while cooking. If they’re too hot, there’s a high risk of burns or injuries. To prevent this, always choose a kadhai with sturdy, heat-resistant handles. This way, you’ll be able to handle the kadhai with confidence.
4. Induction Compatibility
If you’re using an induction cooktop instead of a gas stove, ensure that the kadhai you buy is compatible. Not all kadhais are induction-friendly, so always pick the right one. If the kadhai is made of stainless steel and has a flat bottom, it can be used on an induction stovetop. For a gas stovetop, you can use any material, as they are all compatible.
Photo Credit: iStock
5. Budget
The market offers various types of kadhais at different price points. While it can be tempting to buy an expensive one, do so only if it meets your specific needs. Avoid overspending and always purchase a kadhai from a trusted brand. This way, it will last you a long time, and you won’t have to spend excessively on your purchase. Also Read: 6 Factors You Should Always Consider Before Buying A Packet Of Bread
Now that you know about these tips, keep them in mind and make an informed decision while buying a kadhai for your everyday cooking.
We all use the kitchen sink daily. Whether for washing utensils, fruits, and vegetables, or our hands, it holds significant importance in our daily kitchen chores. Without it, we would struggle to complete many everyday kitchen tasks. Since it’s used extensively, quality shouldn’t be overlooked. From size and material to depth, number of bowls, and more, several factors are crucial to consider before buying a kitchen sink. So, if you’re planning to buy a new one or upgrade your old one, here are six key aspects to consider. Check out the full list below. Also Read: 5 Types Of Containers That Are A Must In Every Kitchen
Photo Credit: iStock
Here Are 6 Things To Consider Before You Buy A Kitchen Sink:
1. Size
When shopping for a kitchen sink, make sure you have the proper dimensions of the area where you plan to install it. This will enable you to make an informed decision in choosing the right sink for your kitchen. And if the sink leaves some extra counter space, that’s even better.
2. Material
The material of the kitchen sink determines how long it will last. The most common materials used for making them include aluminium steel, cast iron, granite, and more. Opt for the one depending on what you’re looking for. If durability and affordability are your concerns, buy a cast iron or stainless steel one. If you’re willing to splurge a little, the granite one is a great option.
3. Depth
Most sinks have a standard depth of 8 to 10 inches. However, there are some that have a depth that is less or more than this. Choose the one depending on your personal requirements. If you have a larger family, buy a sink with a greater depth, as it provides more space for cleaning utensils. On the other hand, if you have a smaller family, a sink with a shallower length would suffice.
Photo Credit: iStock
4. Number Of Bowls
Another factor to consider is the number of bowls in the sink. You’ll come across sinks with a single bowl, double bowl, or even a drainboard. Like depth, this decision depends on the number of family members or how often you cook. A single-bowl sink is great for smaller families, while a double-bowl sink is better for larger families.
5. Finish Or Coating
Nowadays, kitchen sinks come in various finishes and coatings. Some are shiny and glossy, while others have a matte finish or a protective layer. With so many options, it can be quite confusing to pick the right one. But no need to stress, simply choose the one that you think would blend seamlessly with your kitchen aesthetic.
6. Warranty
You should also inquire about the sink’s warranty before making your purchase. The warranty period can vary from 1 to 5 years. Knowing the kitchen sink is under warranty will give you peace of mind, reducing stress about potential defects or damage. So, always check the warranty and return policy. Also Read: 5 Foods You Should Never Store On Kitchen Countertops
Photo Credit: iStock
Now that you know these key factors, we hope they’ll come in handy while making your purchase. Happy Shopping!
With an increasing awareness about health and sustainable living, veganism has become a popular lifestyle choice. For the unversed, veganism refrains from all animal-derived products, including dairy, and includes plant-based alternatives. Among these, vegan milk options like soy, oat, coconut, and almond milk have become household staples for many. Almond milk, in particular, is one of the most popular choices for its rich nutritional profile and versatility. But while almond milk is healthy, does the source of your almond milk make a difference? Store-bought vs. fresh: which one is actually better for you? Let’s find out.
Also Read: Can’t Choose Between Almond Milk and Soy Milk? Here are 5 Differences That Will Help You Decide
Photo: iStock
What Does Almond Milk Do To Your Body?
Almond milk is extremely beneficial for your body and serves as a perfect alternative to dairy milk. If you drink almond milk regularly, it can provide you with multiple benefits.
1. Calcium-Packed
Almond milk is a great source of calcium and can provide up to 37 percent of the daily requirement. This is even more than regular dairy milk.
2. Dairy-Free and Vegan
As mentioned above, almond milk is completely dairy-free since it is made using almonds. It is also a great option for people who are lactose intolerant.
3. Might Help With Weight Loss
Almond milk is low in calories and high in unsaturated fats. Consuming it may help you shed those extra kilos.
4. Doesn’t Spike Blood Sugar
Since almond milk does not have too many carbs, it does not cause sudden blood sugar or energy spikes. It is also low on the glycemic index, making it perfect for people with diabetes.
5. Rich in Antioxidants
Almond milk is a good source of vitamin E and antioxidants. This helps protect cells against radical damage and improves immune health.
Why You Should Avoid Consuming Store-Bought Almond Milk
Now that you know the benefits of almond milk, let’s dive deeper. While store-bought almond milk is convenient and saves time, it doesn’t provide many benefits for your body.
Why?
Because of the ingredients. According to nutritionist Lovneet Batra, almonds by weight make up only about three to five percent, which is very low. Moreover, store-bought almond milk contains other ingredients like stabilizers, emulsifiers, and acidity regulators that don’t help your body in any way. In fact, due to these ingredients, consuming store-bought almond milk can actually cause inflammation in your body.
Consuming almond milk is a good way to include almonds in your diet Photo: iStock
How To Make Almond Milk At Home
The best part about almond milk is that you can easily make it at home. All you need is:
2 cups raw almonds
8 cups filtered water
1. Prepare the Almonds
Wash and soak almonds in a bowl for eight hours or overnight. This will make them soft. Peel off the skins and set them aside.
2. Blend
Transfer the soaked almonds to a mixer jar and blend until it forms a smooth paste. Add more water if necessary to achieve the desired consistency.
3. Strain and Enjoy
Pour the smooth almond paste into a sieve or muslin cloth to remove the solids. Once done, transfer the almond milk into a glass and enjoy!
Pro Tip:
You can drink fresh almond milk, but if you wish to store it, keep it in a refrigerator in a glass bottle. Use it within 4-5 days and shake well before each use.
Also Read: What to Do With Leftover Almond Milk?
Do you like consuming almond milk? Let us know in the comments below.
A while ago, I saw a video on TikTok from an influencer that absolutely sent my brain into a spiral.
SamDoll, who is the influencer, went on a rant about how she bought the Oura Ring Gen 3 and absolutely hated it. Her rant was infuriating and actually really upset me because not only was she speaking without much knowledge about the actual ring, but she also has the capability of influencing her nearly one million followers.
While she did make some accurate points in her video, I genuinely did not agree with what she was saying for the most part. It made me realize how important it is that I reiterate to you, our valued readers, how important it is to not get sucked into what regular, everyday influencers say about tech products.
More importantly, as you spend your hard-earned money on products this Black Friday and Cyber Monday weekend, then you should be looking to read reviews from trusted sites like Android Central. If you are keen on listening to what influencers say, then you should follow tech influencers who take particular interest in providing the best information that is relevant to help you understand products.
On that note, the Oura Ring Gen 3 is the wearable that pretty much kicked off the smart ring craze, and its best style is currently up to $100 off depending on the color you want, making it a good alternative if you want a great smart ring without breaking the bank.
Why being accurate when you make rants is important
(Image credit: Derrek Lee / Android Central)
One of the main points that SamDoll makes in her video is how the ring keeps telling her a lot of information that she doesn’t understand, and she also claims that the ring isn’t doing the job right.
In one example, she complains about how she felt like she had a horrible night’s sleep, but when she woke up, the ring indicated her Readiness Score (but she inaccurately calls it recovery) was at 80 percent.
What SamDoll didn’t include in this portion of the video is what the Oura Ring Readiness score is and what it is based on:
“Your Readiness Score reflects how balanced your recovery and activity are. It looks at your sleep quality, body signals, and activity levels to show how prepared you are to take on the day,” according to the Oura website. It is not just based on how well you sleep. Even if you had poor sleep, your body throughout the day could have recovered well.
When you do not express to your nearly one million followers what the ring actually is collecting and how it contributes to the overall score, you’re providing inaccurate information because they’re not getting the whole picture.
It deters a user from wanting to buy something because they trust what you are saying. That is why it is important to ensure you, our valuable reader, are going to trusted sources who take a lot of time to test products to give you the information you need.
Jitesh Ubrani, research manager for IDC’s worldwide device trackers, reiterated the importance of experience.
“Advice from experts is simply more valuable and enlightening and consumers should focus on that. However, the reality is that anyone with a loud enough voice can make or break a product, so it’s in companies’ best interest to also collaborate with influencers outside of tech,” he said.
The Oura Ring is not for fitness, it is for your health
(Image credit: Oura)
SamDoll, later in her video, expresses her distaste for how the ring doesn’t automatically detect her workout, and when she plugged her workout into the ring app, it didn’t provide her with accurate information on how many calories she burned.
In the initial stages of the Oura Ring, which, in my experience, is the gold standard of smart rings, it took a while for the ring to actually detect and accurately provide workout information.
That since has changed and is incredibly accurate. Android Central’s managing editor, Derrek Lee, has noted how the ring is great at detecting common activities like walking and running. He had expressed to me about a time when he went out with friends dancing, and the ring, later on, indicated that he had some activity and labeled it as dancing, something it has accurately deduced on more than one occasion.
While he often manually tracks workouts with the ring, it will sometimes automatically detect more ambiguous activities like high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and yoga.
But that being said, I don’t actually think the Oura Ring is for fitness; rather, it’s meant to be an overall health tracker and monitor. I think the purpose of the ring is to help you understand your body, and as such, I actually think it would be better paired with another wearable like an Android smartwatch if your desire is to monitor fitness.
Ubrani agrees, adding that a smart ring is a “replacement for the health-related aspects of smartwatches.”
The biggest problem with the Oura Ring
(Image credit: Derrek Lee / Android Central)
While SamDoll made a lot of claims in her video that I did not agree with—and there were more than what I detail in this article—I did agree with her on one major point.
She expressed how the Oura Ring is already an expensive device (starting at US$299), which it is. But to top it off, if you really want the best experience with the ring, you need to pay an additional $5.99 before tax per month for the subscription service. Granted, the subscription service does come with a lot of features like the following:
Integration with third-party health and wellness apps like Strava
Advanced temperature monitoring
Blood Oxygen Sensing (SpO2)
Cardiovascular Age
Cardio Capacity (VO2 Max)
Cycle Insights
Daytime Stress
Dynamic activity goals with Automatic Activity Detection
Oura Labs
Pregnancy Insights
Resilience
Weekly, monthly, quarterly, yearly, and anniversary reports
But that’s a lot of money, especially when no other company that produces a smart ring requires an additional paid subscription to enjoy the ring (even Amazfit got rid of its subscription for the Helio Ring). Basically, all the most useful Oura Ring features are hidden behind a paywall.
I strongly urge Oura to rethink this idea, as it can also be a deterrent for users who may consider buying a smart ring. That said, Oura explains that it does this because it uses the money to invest in its features and its technology. This is why we see the ring constantly getting new features, even years after the Gen 3 launched.
Oura is the gold standard for smart rings
(Image credit: Oura)
Oura has been around for many years, and we do know that the company strives to do more to help people with their health, which it has proven with the newer and excellent Oura Ring 4.
Like me, Ubrani also agrees that the ring is the gold standard for smart rings only because the company has done a “great job in offering a very polished and well-rounded experience for users, which in turn has set a high bar for competition.”
Oura has been able to do this only because they had a massive lead up in the market, also providing them much more time to refine the experience of the ring.
But more importantly, I think, in general, if you’re going to buy something during Black Friday or Cyber Monday, try to do more homework than just relying on one creator.
Popular dairy brand Amul is known for its wide range of products. With Diwali festivities just around the corner, the demand for ghee is on the rise with many households placing their trust in the dairy brand. Amid this, Amul has been making the headlines because of a sudden surge in the supply of counterfeit Amul ghee sold in the market. The company has issued a warning for consumers through social media, claiming that some unethical agents are distributing adulterated ghee in one-litre refill packs which Amul has not produced in more than three years.
Amul issued a public advisory on X (formerly Twitter) and urged customers to be aware of the fake Amul ghee packaging. As per the advisory, Amul revealed that they have switched to a “duplication proof” carton pack for the ghee to prevent adulteration. “This is for your kind information that fake and spurious Amul ghee is being packed and distributed in the market by a few unscrupulous agents,” read the guideline. A picture of the fake “ghee in the 1-litre refill pack” was also added to the post to give viewers a better idea of the counterfeit product.
The advisory added, “Amul has stopped manufacturing its 1 Litre Refill Ghee pack from more than three years and has switched over to the Duplication Proof carton pack. The new Amul ghee pack Duplication Proof carton helps to prevent any form of adulteration and is packed using highly sophisticated aseptic filling machines at our state-of-the-art ISO certificate diaries. Amul ghee is also available in Tin, Pouch and Jar packaging formats.”
“Is there any official website of Amul from where the products can be bought directly?” asked a concerned user.
As a consumer we can buy products like ghee etc. directly from Amul. Is there any official website of Amul from where the products can be bought directly?— vg (@37_vg59874) October 26, 2024
“I always buy Amul ghee in jars,” revealed another.
I always buy Amul ghee in jars.????— Pallavi(Ruby)Baruah???????? (Modi Ka Parivar) (@25rubybaruah) October 22, 2024
A grateful person wrote, “OMG! Thank you. Have used the fake pack thinking the carton design changed.”
OMG! Thank you. Have used the fake pack thinking the carton design changed.— मैंAnitaIA&AS (@anitashahakella) October 22, 2024
Also Read: How To Detect If Your Food Contains Contaminants? FSSAI Explains
An irked consumer said, “Amul should have withdrawn the remaining packages from the market and sold them in a totally different look. How do they expect the public to scrutinise everything?”
Amul should have withdrawn the remaining packages from the market and sold them in a totally different look. How do they expect the public to scrutinise everything – we trust the brand and buy it, little realising that it might be spurious— m Sharma (@monshaa) October 26, 2024
Some individuals cited the names of a few online delivery apps where the fake Amul ghee was being sold.
What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you want to make food quickly? We are pretty sure you answered the pressure cooker. This kitchen essential is designed to cut down on your cooking time while retaining all the nutrients. Plus, pressure cookers are capable in more than one way – they work wonders on slow-cook dishes, are perfect for tenderizing hard meat, and consume a lot less energy than any other kitchen appliance. Whether you are making rajma for a Sunday lunch or quickly boiling potatoes for that lip-smacking chaat, a pressure cooker is your kitchen’s best friend. But before you buy one for yourself, make sure to keep these 6 points in mind.
Also Read: Watch: How To Keep Pressure Cooker Clean – Expert Shares Quick Tip
6 Things To Keep In Mind Before Buying A Pressure Cooker
1. Material Matters
When you are choosing pressure cookers, the first thing to think about is about the material. Aluminium and stainless steel utensils are the best when it comes to buying pressure cookers. Aluminium is lightweight and easy on the pocket, but stainless steel is loved for its durability. It can resist rust and is less reactive to food, which makes it a safer option in the long run. Yes, stainless steel can pinch your pocket but it’s a one-time investment.
2. Analyse Its Size
While browsing through the catalogue, look for a pressure cooker that fits your needs. If you are cooking for two or three people, a 3-5 litre pressure cooker should work. But if you are cooking for your family of 4 or 6, then go for a bigger one with around 6 litres or more. Remember, a large cooker can still handle small quantities but not the other way around. Plus, if you host your friends and family regularly, then a large pressure cooker should be an ideal choice.
3. Stovetop vs. Electric
Stovetop pressure cookers are every cooker’s essential tool. These cookers are quick, reliable, and also make that “hiss” sound that we all love. But, if you want an effortless experience, then go for an electric pressure cooker. With its manual settings and automatic shut-offs, they are perfect for kitchen newbies or anyone who doesn’t want to be vigilant about their food. The only disadvantage of these types of cookers is that they take up a lot of kitchen countertop space.
4. Safety
Modern-day pressure cookers come with multiple safety features. You can find pressure-release valves, safety locks, and pressure indicators to make your cooking safe and sound. Many cookers even have automatic shut-offs to prevent overheating. So, make sure to check for these features before you make your final choice.
5. Induction-Friendly
If you are using an induction stovetop, make sure the pressure cooker that you use is compatible. Not all pressure cookers are induction-friendly, so if you use an induction stovetop, make sure to check if your pressure cooker mentions “induction base” on its bottom. Double-check if you are not sure. Trust us, it will save you a lot of trouble!
Also Read: 5 Foods You Should Never Cook In A Pressure Cooker
6. Cleaning
Let’s admit it, no one loves to clean up after a big meal. So, when picking a pressure cooker, think about how easy it is to maintain. Non-stick cookers can be super easy to clean, but the coating might wear off after some time. Stainless steel might take a little bit more effort to clean but is super durable. Remember, the more complicated the design is, the more messy it would be to clean up.
If you’re someone who cooks often, you surely know the importance of possessing a good chopping board. This kitchen tool allows us to chop, cut, and slice our food with finesse, making the process of cooking a lot easier and more fun, doesn’t it? However, many find it challenging to shop for one. Nowadays, you’ll come across a variety of chopping boards in the market. While it’s good to have options to choose from, it can also challenge your decision-making abilities. Do you find yourself in a similar situation? Are you feeling confused about which chopping board to pick? Fret not! We are here to solve all your doubts about chopping boards so that you’re able to make the right decision while shopping for one. Below are five key factors you should evaluate before making your purchase. Also Read: Plastic Chopping Board Slipping And Sliding? 5 Genius Hacks to Keep It Steady
Photo Credit: Getty
Here Are 5 Factors To Keep In Mind Before Buying A Chopping Board:
1. What Material Is It Made From?
The first thing you should assess while shopping for a chopping board is the material. Chopping boards are made with different materials, such as wood, plastic, and glass. For heaving chopping and robustness, opt for a wooden chopping board. If you’re looking for something affordable and lightweight, a plastic chopping board is ideal. A glass one is great for tasks like kneading dough.
2. Is It Knife-Friendly?
Another key aspect to evaluate is if the chopping board is knife-friendly. A knife-friendly chopping board ensures that your knives don’t become blunt and their sharpness remains intact. If this is a matter of concern to you, consider choosing a wooden or a plastic chopping board. Both of these are durable and provide a surface that is gentle on knives.
3. Is It Easy To Clean?
Imagine buying a chopping board and not being able to clean it properly. What a bummer, right? To avoid being in such a situation, make sure to assess if the chopping board is easy to clean. Among all the varieties, a plastic chopping board is usually the easiest to clean, followed by a glass one. A wooden chopping board, on the other hand, tends to absorb flavours, making it challenging to clean.
4. How Durable Is It?
The durability of a chopping board determines how long it will last. While this mainly depends on usage, a wooden chopping board is the best pick because wood is quite sturdy and can handle a lot of wear and tear. Plastic chopping boards are also quite durable. However, glass chopping boards may not be as durable since they can break easily. Also Read: Easy And Effective: 5 Tips For Cleaning Your Wooden Chopping Board
Photo Credit: Getty
5. How Much Does It Cost?
Cost is another major factor to consider when shopping for a chopping board. The cost of chopping boards can begin from anywhere between Rs 200-300 and go up to Rs 2000. Make your purchase based on how often you use a chopping board. If you use it occasionally, you can make do with a cheaper one. However, if you use it on a regular basis, don’t hesitate to spend extra and invest in a quality chopping board.
Now that you know about these points, keep them in mind and make an informed decision when buying a chopping board.
