hacklink hack forum hacklink film izle hacklink marsbahis izmir escort sahabet porn Jojobet

Tag: Extra

5 Christmas Cakes From Around The World That Will Make Your Holiday Extra Sweet

Christmas is all about red and green outfits, lots of feasting, decorating everything with lights, and having a good time with friends and family. Among the many holiday traditions, Christmas cakes hold a special place on dessert tables worldwide. While most people are familiar with the plum or rum cake, there is a range of delicious and special Christmas cakes in different parts of the world. This Christmas, embrace the global spirit of celebration with cakes from around the world.

Here Are 5 Traditional Christmas Cakes Worldwide:

1. Christmas Cake – England

The England-style Christmas cake has become a beloved holiday dessert worldwide. This dense fruit cake is packed with candied or dried fruits, nuts, and warm spices – all soaked in spirits like brandy, rum, or cognac. The flavours of the cake are a unique mix of sweet, spicy, and boozy.

2. Buche de Noel – France

In France, Buche de Noel is a popular Christmas cake. This iconic dessert is a light sponge cake rolled into a log shape. The outer layer is coated in chocolate or coffee – flavoured buttercream and textured to resemble tree bark. To add a Christmas-special touch, it is decorated with powdered sugar, edible leaves, and meringue mushrooms.

Photo: iStock

3. Bolo Rei – Portugal

Portugal’s traditional Christmas cake looks fascinating and tastes amazing. Bolo Rei means ‘King’s Cake,’ and that’s what it looks like. The cake is shaped like a crown with a hole in the centre. Just like bright gems, it is adorned with candied fruits and nuts. As per tradition, a fava bean is hidden in the cake, and whoever gets that slice has to buy the cake next Christmas.

Photo: iStock

4. Panettone – Italy

Italy’s classic recipe is another favourite Christmas cake across Europe and beyond. This sweet cake is dome-shaped and has a bread-like texture-light, airy, and yeasty – similar to sourdough bread. Panettone also contains raisins and candied fruits. The true origin of Panettone lies in the medieval custom of enriching the daily bread during the Christmas period.

Also Read:Kylie Jenner’s “Christmas Tree Pancakes” Scream Festive Vibes From Miles Away

5. Bibingka – Philippines

Christmas is a cherished holiday in the Philippines, celebrated with a holiday-special cake called bibingka. This traditional rice cake is made with coconut milk and wrapped in banana leaf moulds, giving it a unique aroma and interesting presentation. It is often topped with caramelized coconut strips.

Which is your favourite cake for Christmas celebrations? Share with us in the comments section.

Source link

December 17, 2024
This Green Garlic Tandoori Roti Will Make Your Winter Meals Extra Special

Winter is finally in full swing, bringing with it a bounty of fresh, seasonal ingredients that warm our hearts and souls. From hearty sweet potatoes to wholesome spinach, there is no shortage of winter goodness this season. Among these vegetables, green garlic stands out. Thanks to its versatility, green garlic pairs beautifully with everything – from curries to sabzis. However, there is yet another way to enjoy its goodness, right from the comfort of your home: green garlic tandoori roti. This wholesome and aromatic bread is a delightful twist on your regular rotis and is perfect for warming up your bellies this chilly season. Intrigued? Well, you should be! Let’s learn how green garlic is beneficial for you and how to incorporate it into rotis!

Also Read: What’s the Difference Between Green Garlic and Garlic Scapes?

Photo: iStock

Why You Shouldn’t Skip Green Garlic This Winter

Green garlic is more than just a flavour enhancer; it is actually a nutritional powerhouse.

1. Boosts Immunity: Green garlic is rich in antioxidants and vitamins that help strengthen immunity and protect against seasonal illnesses.

2. Supports Heart Health: This winter produce helps improve blood circulation, reduces bad cholesterol, and helps maintain healthy blood pressure levels.

3. Keeps Digestion Smooth: Green garlic promotes a healthy gut by supporting digestion and reducing bloating, thanks to its fibre content.

4. Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Consuming green garlic can help reduce inflammation and provide relief from joint pain.

This is why this green garlic tandoori roti recipe is perfect for winter. Plus, it doesn’t require any oven or electric tandoor to get the desired texture and taste!

Can You Use Green Garlic Roti Dough For Other Dishes?

Absolutely! The green garlic roti dough is extremely versatile. You can use it to make crispy pooris or flavorful stuffed parathas. The addition of green garlic not only enhances the dough’s flavour but also adds a nutritional edge to your meals. Whether you’re frying, roasting, or rolling it out, this dough can be made into delicious recipes!

Photo: iStock

How To Make Green Garlic Tandoori Roti | Green Garlic Tandoori Roti Recipe

Making green garlic tandoori roti at home is pretty simple. This recipe was shared on Instagram by content creator @saltinall. To make this:

1. Prepare Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour with salt, eno, grated white part of green garlic, and chopped green garlic. Add dahi, oil, and water in batches and knead to form a soft dough. Top it up with some oil, cover, and rest.

2. Make Rotis

After 30 minutes, knead the dough again until it is soft. Divide into small balls. Meanwhile, keep an open-top cooker base to heat on a gas stove. Roll out regular-sized rotis and make sure they are slightly thick. Apply a little water on one side and stick it to the side of the cooker. Repeat with all rotis. Once you start seeing bubbles, invert the cooker over the stove and wait until it gets a brownish colour.

3. Garnish And Serve

Once the rotis are brown and cooked, remove them to a plate. Slather butter or ghee on top of them and enjoy!

Watch the full video below:

Also Read:Winter Got You Down? Meet Green Garlic Chutney – Your Flavourful Pick-Me-Up

So, try this easy tandoori roti recipe today and let us know in the comments if you like it or not!

Source link

December 12, 2024
10 Chennai Sweet Shops That Will Make Your Diwali Extra Sweet

There’s no better time to pander to your sugar cravings than Diwali. Chennai’s sweet shops come alive during Diwali. While at least a few sweets are still made at home in most Chennai homes, the sheer variety of sweets on offer makes it a convenient option to outsource your sweet fix. There are few cities in India that can match Chennai’s diverse sweet offerings, from time-tested South Indian sweets to traditional sweets from Rajasthan to Bengali favourites. You will be spoilt for choice:

Also Read: Mysore Pak Among Best Street Food Sweets In The World: Know Its Royal History And Recipe

10 Sweet Shops In Chennai You Must Try:

1. Grand Sweets:

This shop started a few decades ago in the Adyar area of South Chennai before growing into a city-wide sweet shop chain. They offer one of the largest sweet menus with sweets from across India. We’re partial to their Mysore Pak (the cashew Mysore Pak is a house speciality) that gets its textures right and their traditional South Indian style laddoo with a hint of camphor.
Where: Gandhi Nagar, Adyar

2. Sri Krishna Sweets:

The Krishna Sweets journey started a few decades ago in Coimbatore but it has now become synonymous with Chennai. It’s their signature Mysurpa (a melt-in-your-mouth version of the Mysore Pak) that has earned it a loyal legion of fans across India. But do check out other favourites like the coconut laddoo.
Where: Venkatanarayana Road, T Nagar

3. Kakada Ramprasad

If you ask us to pick our favourite Badam milk in Chennai, it would be the sinful Kakda version. Kakada’s jalebi became an instant favourite when the sweet shop debuted in the 1950s in the city’s bustling Mint Street. We’d recommend visiting their more accessible Kilpauk outlet where you can try their signature Kesar Baati with its spongy textures and enticing saffron notes.
Where: Ormes Road, Kilpauk

4. Shree Mithai:

If you’re like me and you can just polish off a few Kaju Katlis in quick time, then Shree Mithai should be on your list. Their Kesar kaju Katli with its rich saffron flavours is one of the best in town. Shree also scores with its Badam milk and milk sweets like their delicious rasamalai.
Where: Dr TV Road, Chetpet

Also Read: 7 Mouth-Watering South Indian Sweets That’ll Light Up Your Diwali Celebrations

_{Photo Credit: iStock}

5. Gangotree Sweets:

One of Chennai’s best-known chaat and sweet shops since it was established in the 1990s, Gangotree is well known for its range of milk sweets. We’re partial to their pedas, their Kalakand, and a delicious version of the chanar payesh.
Where: Cathedral Road

6. Basha Halwawala:

This nondescript sweet stall with an eighty-year legacy in the busy Jam Bazaar area in Triplicane sells one of the most delicious halwas in Chennai. The Dum Ka Roat is a favourite in this area and combines semolina with sugar, ghee and khoya with a unique crust that is formed by the charcoal on the lid during the cooking process. Regulars also swear by their gulab jamun and carrot halwa.
Where: Fakir Sahib Street, Jambazaar, Triplicane

7. KC Das:

Looking for authentic Bengali mishti? KC Das is almost a no-brainer. It remains one of India’s most popular destinations for Bengali sweets with its fail-proof rosogollas. There’s more on offer here than their legendary rosogolla. Their chanar payesh and Kala Jamun are a must-try.
Where: Moores Road, College Road

8. Suswaad:

This low-profile sweet shop has retained its traditional taste and flavours for decades. One of their specialities is the paal khova – a delight if you love milk sweets that are also cloyingly sweet. Other popular sweets here are the adhirasam and vella cheedai (crunchy sweet balls that are made with jaggery and rice flour).
Where: Venkatraman Street, T Nagar

9. Adyar Ananda Bhavan:

Popularly known as A2B, this is one of Chennai’s oldest sweet shop brands that started in Adyar (hence the name). It’s grown into a large chain with outlets across South India. Some of their favourites are the Paneer jamoon, mothi ladoo and the Bombay Halwa.
Where: Lattice Bridge Road, Adyar

10. Perambur Sreenivasa Sweets:

A chain with multiple outlets including Perambur. They offer a wide assortment of sweets that include favourites like the soan papdi and badam halwa. Their combo packs and baskets are ideal for gifting or sharing with your loved ones.
Where: Perambur High Road

Source link

October 6, 2024
Get An Extra Boost Of Nutrition With Functional Foods – Your Secret Shield Against Chronic Diseases

Functional foods go beyond providing basic nutrition and nutrients; they offer health benefits that can protect against chronic diseases. While whole foods provide essential carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals for overall health, functional foods contain unique compounds that provide additional advantages. This concept gained prominence in the 1980s in Japan when the government funded research to explore the impact of certain foods on human health. In 1991, Japan introduced the “Foods for Specialized Health Use (FOSHU)” category, allowing certain foods to be approved by the government and carry the FOSHU seal on their labels.

Also Read: Why Functional Beverages Are Trending In The World Of Health, And Why It’s Time To Embrace Them

Health Benefits Of Functional Foods:

_{Photo Credit: iStock}

Functional foods are rich sources of antioxidants like carotenoids, flavonoids, lycopene, anthocyanin, and polyphenols, which combat free radicals and protect against brain damage, ageing, cataracts, and cancers. They also play a role in reducing and controlling inflammation, a key factor in various chronic health issues.

Additionally, functional foods provide probiotics, which enhance immunity. Foods containing prebiotics also act as functional foods by nourishing beneficial gut bacteria, preserving gut integrity, preventing infections, and aiding in sugar regulation, reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

5 Functional Food Components And Nutrients:

1. Dietary Fibre:

_{Photo Credit: iStock}

Dietary fibre increases bile salt excretion, which reduces cholesterol, promotes regular bowel movements, removes toxins from the body, regulates blood sugar, and helps with weight control. Sources include whole grains, millet, nuts, legumes, vegetables, and whole fruits.

Also Read:5 Soluble Fibre-Rich Foods That Experts Recommend For Diabetics

2. Omega-3 Fatty Acids:

These fats are known for their cardiovascular benefits, reducing triglycerides, LDL-cholesterol levels, and the risk of blood clot formation, while also boosting immunity. Sources include walnuts, chia seeds, flaxseeds, salmon, trout, and tuna.

3. Isothiocyanates:

Found in cruciferous vegetables, these compounds reduce the risk of cancers of the stomach, breast, liver, oesophagus, lung, small intestine, and colon. They also protect against stomach cancers related to helicobacter pylori and heart diseases. Sources include broccoli, brussels sprouts, watercress, cabbage, cauliflower, and kale.

Also Read:Beyond Salad And Sabzi: 5 Healthy Ways To Consume Leafy Greens

4. Flavonoids:

These pigments found in plants offer antioxidant, antiallergic, antiviral, antitoxic, antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. They are linked to the prevention of heart diseases, diabetes, neurodegenerative diseases, and potential cancer treatment. Sources include dried parsley, red onions, cranberries, asparagus, blackcurrants, and various teas.

5. Probiotics, Prebiotics, Synbiotics:

Probiotics are live bacteria that enhance gut flora and maintain gut integrity. Prebiotics are the food for these beneficial bacteria, usually indigestible fibres, and have demonstrated anticancer and antiviral properties. Foods providing both are called synbiotic sources. Probiotic sources include yogurt, buttermilk, pickles, kimchi, and kefir. Prebiotic sources include fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

This list is not exhaustive, and compounds like polyols, phytoestrogens, soy proteins, and carotenoids have specific functions for enhancing health. Notably, these compounds are most effective when consumed as whole foods, as they work synergistically with other natural compounds and nutrients. Therefore, consuming whole, fresh foods is the most beneficial approach for harnessing the power of functional foods.

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 on 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.

Source link

October 2, 2024
Kicking away cancer | Delone Catholic kicker’s extra points carry extra meaning this football season

Nolan Kruse teamed up with Alex’s Lemonade Stand to raise money for the foundation’s mission through field goals he makes this football season.

YORK COUNTY, Pa. — When Delone Catholic senior kicker Nolan Kruse attended a kicking camp this summer in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, he was introduced to Alex’s Lemonade Stand, a foundation fighting to end childhood cancer.

At the organization’s stand at the camp, he saw a sign-up form with only one name on the list and knew instantly he had to make it two.

“I just hate seeing kids that don’t have these opportunities. They don’t get the opportunity to even go outside and play an athletic activity,” said Kruse. “It sucks to see. I want to be able to do something for those kids.”

Kruse has teamed up with the organization to raise money for the foundation’s mission through the thing he loves to do most: kicking. On top of donations, family members, teammates and other community members are pledging to support the cause for every kick Kruse makes this season. With a fundraiser goal of $2,500 by Nov. 8, Kruse has already raised more than $1,300 as of late September.

“It makes it a little extra special. It’s like an extra extra point,” said Kruse. “I got to do this for these kids. After I make [each kick], I’m like, ‘There’s another dollar. I did my job.’”

However, there was another reason much closer to home that pushed Kruse to write his name down on that signup form in Tennessee. Delone Catholic Special Teams Coach Mark Leonard was diagnosed with cancer in his jaw last October. Kruse’s bond with Leonard has grown over the years, and when his mentor was faced with something he never thought would happen, he knew he had to give back to the coach that gave so much to him.

“It’s just an extra drive and extra motivation [that gives] another reason besides these kids that don’t get these opportunities,” said Kruse. “It’s just a closer connection to you.”

A gesture between player and mentor, that meant the world.

“It means a lot. I didn’t have a clue he was going to do that,” said Leonard. “It’s very meaningful, it’s very special, and it’s heartfelt. Nolan’s a good kid. He is very nice. He gets along with everybody, and he comes out and does his job and does it well. So that doesn’t surprise me one bit that he’s doing that.”

An easy decision for Kruse to turn his gameday job into something that will impact a much bigger team.

“If you see the opportunity, and you just don’t like to see people who are in these bad opportunities, these struggling times, and you have the opportunity, I say take it,” said Kruse.

For more information or to help support Nolan Kruse’s cause and make a contribution to his “Kicking Childhood Cancer” campaign, head to his Alex’s Lemonade Stand page.

Source link

September 24, 2024
Is Adding Extra Salt To Your Meals A Good Idea? Heres The Truth You Need To Know

Have you ever taken a bite of your favourite dish and thought, “Hmm, maybe just a pinch of salt would make it better?” Well, you are not alone. For many of us, the final dash of salt seems like an easy way to enhance the flavour of our meals. And we don’t just do it with our daily meals but also with our fruits and salads. But, is it really a good practice to add salt on top of our foods? It makes our food taste better but does it harm our bodies more than we think? If you have this and other sodium-related questions in mind, then you have landed on the right page! Let’s find out if this habit is helping or making your body better or worse.

Also Read: 15 Incredible Rock Salt (Sendha Namak) Benefits for Skin, Hair and Overall Health

Photo Credit: iStock

What Happens When You Eat Too Much Salt?

If you are consuming too much salt daily, it can have several long-term effects on your body. The most common side effect is heightened blood pressure – where blood is being forcefully pushed against the artery walls. Some other common symptoms include the development of multiple sclerosis, heart diseases, headaches, enlarged muscle tissue, damage to organs, kidney stones, osteoporosis, etc. A very evident side effect of too much salt intake is water retention in the body, which could lead to swelling in parts of the body.

Should You Add Salt on Top Of Your Meals?

Yes, you can. As per nutritionist Amita Gadre (@amitagadre) adding salt on top of your meals would not cause any problems. However, it is important to make sure that you aren’t consuming foods that are too savoury or salty to manage your total sodium intake for the day. Many times, we add salt while cooking the ingredients to fasten the process and prevent burning. For example: while cooking onion. The expert says it is completely fine to add salt on top of your meals to enhance their flavour.

How Much Salt Is Okay To Consume Everyday?

As per the expert, it is important to note your salt intake throughout the day. Make sure only to consume 1 teaspoon (5 grams) of salt in a day and not more than that. This is because you obtain sodium from other foods as well and not just from the extra salt being put on top of your foods.

Watch the full video below:

How To Reduce Salt Intake On A Daily Basis?

You can easily reduce your salt consumption by tweaking your daily habits. Follow these easy tips to control your salt intake.

1. Avoid Processed Foods

The ready-to-eat packaged snacks available in the market today have high levels of salt in them. These food products have unhealthy levels of salt that make them tastier but are immensely harmful to us. Instead of buying salty snacks, try munching on healthier options like fruits, nuts and seeds.

2. Limit Pickles, Papads and Chutneys

Pickles, papads and chutneys definitely make the food taste better but have high amounts of salt in them. If you are consuming them in your daily meals, keep the salt levels in your food lower and compensate it with condiments.

3. Cook At Home

Not only will it be pocket-friendly, but cooking at home can help you control your salt intake. Instead of using salt directly, you can use herbs and seasonings to make them nutritious and more delicious. Try substituting salt with seasonings the next time you are cooking.

Apples
Photo Credit: iStock

4. Eat Fruits And Vegetables With Less Sodium

Another way to reduce your salt intake is by eating fruits and vegetables with low sodium content. Fruits and veggies like apples, berries, oranges, mangoes, broccoli, sweet potatoes, okra, etc. should be added to your daily diet as they have lower sodium levels.

5. Read Food Labels

Before you buy food, read the labels carefully. Make sure to only buy and consume foods with lower sodium levels to keep a check on your daily salt intake. Start by reducing salt in your daily foods and gradually, your taste buds will get immune to this change.

Also Read: Is Your Table Salt Healthy To Consume? Find It Here

Source link

September 18, 2024
Pan Frying Vs. Deep Frying – Whats The Difference? Which Method Makes Your Food Extra Crispy?

Fried food is a total treat in so many cuisines. Seriously, that golden crunch? Unbeatable! But when it comes to getting that perfect crispiness, you might be wondering about the difference between pan-frying and deep-frying. They seem pretty similar, right? If you’re new to cooking, this can be super confusing. The main thing to know is that the amount of oil you use changes how your food turns out. Ever been puzzled by a recipe or menu that mentions “pan-fried momos” and wondered how that’s different from deep-fried? You’re in the right place! Let’s break down the basics and clear up the difference between pan-frying and deep-frying.

Also Read: Make Crisp And Longer French Fries Easily At Your Home With This Simple Trick

Pan frying requires lesser oil usage than deep frying.
Photo Credit: iStock

What Is Pan Frying?

In pan-frying, we use a very small amount of oil in a shallow pan. Think of it as a mid-point between sauteing and deep-frying food. The idea behind pan frying food is to use just enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan. This method is quick and will give you that golden and crispy crust on foods like paneer, cutlets, or even aloo tikki without drowning them entirely in oil. The food will cook in its own juices while the little oil used will add a delightful taste to your dish. This will result in a dish that is packed with flavours, not too greasy, and holds some original texture. Plus, it is a healthier option as compared to deep frying since you are using less oil.

What Is Deep Frying?

As the name suggests, deep frying requires the food to be submerged completely in the hot oil to cook. This method will give your foods a perfect, all-around crispiness. When you deep fry, the heat of the oil seals the exterior layer of the food quickly. This results in locked-in moisture and gives you a crispy and crunchy exterior. Deep frying is what gives those lip-smacking samosas, pakoras and jalebis that irresistible crunch. Although it is not the healthiest cooking method, once in a while you can indulge in that ultimate crunch that deep frying provides.

Deep frying requires a large amount of oil to cook the food.
Photo Credit: iStock

Which One Do You Choose – Pan Fry or Deep Fry?

So, when do you pan-fry or when do you deep fry? It all depends on the dish and the texture you are hoping for. Pan frying is generally better suited for smaller quantities of quickly cooking foods like eggs and vegetables. The end result would be a lighter, less oily dish with a deliciously subtle crunch. Moreover, other dishes – particularly involving fish – may also fall into this category as they can break into pieces.

On the other hand, if you are looking for a full-on crispy indulgent treat, then you should deep fry. This method would allow quick and even cooking and works best for large quantities of food. Since it is deeply fried and requires more amount of oil, deep-fried food lends a heavier, richer taste, as compared to pan-fried foods.

Also Read: Author Krish Ashok Explains “Indian Food Terms” In An Oh-So-Relatable Manner

Source link

September 6, 2024
Is Extra Virgin Olive Oil Really That Good For Your Heart? New Study Says…
Olive oil, especially extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), is considered to be one of the healthiest cooking and edible oils. EVOO is light, non-greasy, and is believed to be enriched with antioxidants and polyphenols that help protect against inflammation, oxidative stress, and related diseases. However, recent studies have suggested that consuming EVOO in smaller quantities may actually have more benefits for overall heart health. Let’s dive deeper into this finding.

Also Read: Is Ghee Better Than Olive Oil For Indian Cooking? Nutritionist Explains

Is Extra Virgin Olive Oil Really Good For Your Heart?

Researchers at the University of Florida decided to dig deeper into how much EVOO you should actually be consuming. They looked at 40 adults with an average age of 64 and a BMI of 32 (most of whom were classified as obese). The participants followed a diet full of whole foods and plant-based vegan dishes, with no animal products. But here’s the catch-one group consumed four tablespoons of EVOO daily, while the other had less than one teaspoon a day.

After a month, here’s what they found:
- Both groups saw improved cholesterol levels across the board.
- Everyone had better heart health markers compared to their previous diet.
- The low EVOO group had a slight edge, with lower levels of LDL (the “bad”) cholesterol.
Also Read: Olive Oil For Cooking: Do’s And Don’ts To Keep In Mind

_{Photo Credit: iStock}

How A Low EVOO Diet Ties To Better Heart Health?

During the study, those who started with a low EVOO diet and switched to more olive oil saw their bad cholesterol levels go up. Meanwhile, people who cut back on EVOO actually saw improvements. The pattern held true for other key heart health markers, too. So, what would you say is the takeaway? Eating less extra virgin olive oil as part of a plant-based diet might be a smart move, especially for those at higher risk of heart disease.

But before you swear off EVOO forever, the researchers noted it’s not all bad. It’s just that “getting fats from whole plant sources like nuts, seeds, and avocados is probably better than relying on refined oils, including EVOO,” the study concluded.

Click here to discover some heart-friendly fat sources to include in your daily diet.
About Somdatta SahaExplorer- this is what Somdatta likes to call herself. Be it in terms of food, people or places, all she craves for is to know the unknown. A simple aglio olio pasta or daal-chawal and a good movie can make her day.

Source link
September 1, 2024