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  • Move Over Palak Paneer! This Maharashtrian Palakchi Bhaji Will Make You Fall In Love With Spinach… All Over Again

    Move Over Palak Paneer! This Maharashtrian Palakchi Bhaji Will Make You Fall In Love With Spinach… All Over Again

    Winter is the perfect time to indulge in fresh, vibrant leafy palak. Whether it’s the comforting palak paneer, earthy saag, or nutritious dal palak, there are countless ways to enjoy the goodness of palak. Packed with iron, potassium, magnesium, and vitamins C and E, palak is often recommended for its health benefits, especially in winter. And just when you think you’ve tried every possible palak dish, here’s one more straight from Maharashtra – Palakchi Bhaji. This simple yet flavour-packed spinach dish will quickly become a favourite, with its homely goodness and delicious taste. It’s quick to make, and with the right spices, it brings out a truly satisfying flavour. Curious to know how to make it at home? Keep reading!

    Also Read: 8 Must-Know Tips To Make Perfect Restaurant-Style Palak Paneer At Home

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    Photo: iStock

    What Is Palakchi Bhaji?

    Palakchi Bhaji is a traditional Maharashtrian spinach sabzi that strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and taste. The creamy yoghurt combined with cooked spinach and tempering creates an irresistible dish. It’s a great option when you’re short on time but still want something hearty and comforting. Versatile as it is, you can also adjust the tangy flavour to your liking by tweaking the spices.

    What Can You Pair With Palakchi Bhaji?

    As with any palak gravy dish, Palakchi Bhaji pairs wonderfully with steamed rice. For a satisfying meal, enjoy it with hot roti or paratha. Add some achaar, chutney, and salad on the side, and you’ve got yourself a wholesome and nutritious lunch.

    Spinach is an excellent alternative to fenugreek leaves.

    Spinach is an excellent alternative to fenugreek leaves.
    Photo: iStock

    How To Make Maharashtrian Palakchi Bhaji | Palakchi Bhaji Recipe

    Making this Maharashtrian delight at home is straightforward. The recipe shared by digital content creator @food.and.frolic makes it even easier. Here’s how you can prepare it:

    1. Prepare Curry Base

    Take half a cup of dahi and mix it with two tablespoons of besan. Add water and stir to create a slurry. Set it aside.

    2. Prepare Palak

    Heat some oil in a kadhai. Once heated, add mustard seeds, chopped garlic, cumin seeds, and hing. Sauté for a few seconds before adding turmeric and red chilli powder. Add fresh palak and stir well to combine. Cover the pan and cook for 15-20 minutes.

    3. Combine Ingredients

    Once the palak is cooked and reduced in size, add the dahi and besan mixture along with some water. Stir in salt and mix everything together. Simmer until the dish thickens.

    4. Prepare Tempering and Combine

    For the tadka, heat oil and add chopped garlic, Kashmiri red chillies, and red chilli powder. You can also add jeera for extra flavour. Once it splutters, pour the tempering over the palak sabji in the pan. Mix well and serve hot!

    Watch the full video below:

    Also Read:Diabetes Diet: This Bajra Palak Roti Is An Excellent Choice For Winter Meals

    Will you be trying this recipe at home? Let us know in the comments below!



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  • Bengaluru-Based Woman Quit Her Corporate Job To Pursue Baking, Internet Shows Love

    Bengaluru-Based Woman Quit Her Corporate Job To Pursue Baking, Internet Shows Love

    When you follow your passion, more often than not, it works out in your favor. Yes, there are risks, but is not life all about chasing dreams and making them come true? If you are still not convinced, this inspirational story of a Bengaluru woman might change your mind. She quit her well-paying corporate job to pursue her passion for baking. The woman’s husband shared her remarkable story on X (formerly Twitter), and the post quickly caught the attention of social media users. Many people praised the woman’s fearless decision.

    Also Read:Watch: Desi Mom’s Hack To Keep Parathas Warm In Canada’s Cold Weather Goes Viral

    The proud husband posted a snapshot of a delicious-looking pastry on the micro-blogging platform. It was a delectable mango cupcake, garnished with vanilla cream, a dollop of caramel and a blueberry on top. In the blurry background, an assortment of other cupcakes could also be seen.

    The side note read, “My wife left a 1.5 L pm job to make these. Thank god she did!” 

    Watch the X post below:

    Trust us, you don’t want to miss the lovely reactions. 

    “Looks delicious! Btw, your wife is pursuing her passion, and I am sure it will lead to great success one day,” commented a user.

    Echoing a similar sentiment, another said, “Looks lovely! I wish you and your wife my best.”

    “People should take it as a learning that even a 30 LPA job can’t provide complete fulfilment. It should be what your heart truly wants,” pointed out a person. 

    Emphasising the importance of taking risks, an individual noted, “Risk in life is  what always matters and is appreciated by God which comes with a lot of blessings and satisfaction.” 

    “She seems to have found her passion (and the way to your stomach too),” read a sweet remark. 

    “Looks so yummy. It is amazing when people follow their dreams or passion,” wrote a foodie

    Someone else had this to say: “She walked away from a 1.5 LPM job to make these masterpieces. Honestly, the world needed her talent more than the corporate ladder did.”

    Also Read:Entrepreneur Paul Graham Asks 7-Year-Olds At Charity Bake Sale For Change, Sparks Debate Online

    So far the post has accumulated more than 234.9k views. What are your views on it? Let us know in the comments below.



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  • Bihari Matar Ki Dal: A Wholesome, Protein-Rich Recipe Youll Fall In Love With Instantly

    Bihari Matar Ki Dal: A Wholesome, Protein-Rich Recipe Youll Fall In Love With Instantly

    What comes to mind when you think of Bihari cuisine? Let us guess: your answer would most probably be litti chokha, dal pitha, or sattu paratha, right? Sure, these dishes taste incredible and are an integral part of Bihari cuisine, but there are several other undiscovered recipes. And honestly, we think they too deserve some attention! Among the many, one that you should definitely try is Matar Ki Dal. Yes, a dal made with matar (peas)! Typically, matar is added to rice dishes, parathas, and sabzis, but here’s a recipe that uses it to make a wholesome dal. So, if you’re a dal lover, do give this hidden gem a try for your next meal, and we guarantee you’ll fall in love with it instantly.
    Also Read: Aloo Chana Jhol: A Tangy Curry That Will Make You Fall In Love With Bihari Cuisine

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    Photo Credit: iStock

    How Does Matar Benefit Your Body?

    Matar has some amazing benefits to offer for our health. Here are some that you should know:

    1. Good Source Of Plant Protein

    Matar is an excellent source of plant-based protein. If you’re wanting to lose weight or strengthen your muscles, it could be a great addition to your diet.

    2. Promotes Digestive Health

    Have you been experiencing digestive issues lately? Matar could help provide some relief. Its high fibre content helps keep issues such as bloating and gas at bay.

    3. Boosts Heart Health

    Since it is rich in magnesium and potassium, matar can aid in lowering cholesterol and managing blood pressure, thus keeping your heart healthy.

    What Can You Pair With Bihari Matar Ki Dal?

    Bihari matar ki dal pairs beautifully with a serving of steamed rice. Additionally, you can also relish this dal with soft rotis or crispy lachha paratha – it’ll taste just as good! Pair the dal with a flavourful sabzi, some achaar, and onions to put together a wholesome and protein-rich meal.

    How To Make Bihari Matar Ki Dal At Home | Bihari Recipes

    The recipe for Bihari matar ki dal was shared by the Instagram handle @cookwithshivangi_. To make this:

    • Grind fresh matar with ginger, garlic, chillies, and black pepper in a food processor.
    • Once done, transfer the mixture to a pressure cooker. Add haldi, salt, and hing, and pressure cook for up to 3 whistles.
    • Next, heat mustard oil in a kadhai and add jeera, bay leaf, dried red chillies, cloves, onions, and green chillies. Saute well.
    • Add fresh coriander stems along with chopped tomatoes. Cook until the tomatoes become soft in texture.
    • Now, add salt, haldi, and chilli powder. Once the masala begins to release oil, add the boiled matar and give everything a good mix.
    • Add water to adjust the consistency and let it boil for 15 mins
    • Garnish the dal with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot!

    Watch the complete video here:

    Also Read: Bored Of Plain Pooris? Try This Winter-Special Bihari-Style Murauri Poori Instead
    Looks delicious, doesn’t it? Make this Bihari-style dal for your next lunch or dinner meal and enjoy it with your family. Happy Cooking!



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  • Moringa Flowers As A Snack? Meet Maska Phool Dangar, The Goan Delight Youll Love

    Moringa Flowers As A Snack? Meet Maska Phool Dangar, The Goan Delight Youll Love

    Moringa, often called drumstick, is a powerhouse of nutrients – rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that boost immunity and promote overall health. For years, moringa has been used in the regional cuisines of Southern Indian states but the world is only now warming up to it. While moringa leaves and pods frequently steal the spotlight in many dishes, this versatile ingredient can be used in countless recipes. But have you heard of moringa flowers? Yes, they’re not just edible but can be transformed into a lip-smacking snack called Maska Phool Dangar or Moringa Flower cutlets. Light, flavourful, and perfect for any occasion, this recipe will leave you craving for more. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to learn how you can make this delicious cutlet recipe at home!

    Also Read: Moringa Podi Idli: A Quick And Nutritious Breakfast Option You Dont Want To Miss

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    Photo: iStock

    What Exactly Is Maska Phool Dangar?

    For the unversed, Maska Phool Dangar is a traditional Goan delicacy that shows the delicate, umami-rich flavours of moringa flowers. Easy to prepare and oh-so-delicious, it’s a dish that celebrates the simplicity and taste of every bite. These cutlets are a great way to explore moringa flowers in a fun, snackable form. Perfect for teatime or as an appetizer for house parties, they’re sure to leave your guests asking for more. If you are looking for a quick, wholesome recipe that is perfect if you love moringa and everything surrounding it.

    How To Make Moringa Flower Cutlets (Maska Phool Dangar) Crispy?

    To make Maska Phool Dangar irresistibly crispy, coat them with rava (semolina) or breadcrumbs before frying. The coating creates a crunchy layer while keeping the inside moist and flavourful. You can also try mixing rice flour into the batter for an added crunch. Just dip the shaped cutlets gently into a cornflour slurry and then in rava or breadcrumbs. Fry or cook until golden brown and serve hot!

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    Photo: iStock

    How To Moringa Flower Cutlets | Maska Phool Dangar Recipe

    Making moringa flower cutlets (maska phool dangar) is pretty simple. This recipe was shared by @keertidacooks on Instagram. To make this:

    1. Prepare Flowers

    Take 1.5 cups of moringa flowers and wash them thoroughly. Pat dry them and chop finely or at least small enough to incorporate them in cutlets.

    2. Prepare Veggies and Spices

    Take an onion and green chillies and finely chop them. Transfer them to the bowl along with moringa flowers. Now add grated coconut, turmeric powder, garam masala, salt, tamarind extract, and besan (to bind) and mix all the ingredients. 

    3. Make Cutlets

    Mix everything well with your hands and shape the mixture into small balls or cutlets. The cutlets won’t be tightly bound like potato cutlets so be careful while handling them. Shallow fry on both sides until golden and serve hot!

    Watch the full video below:

    Also Read: Struggling To Lose Weight? Try This Moringa Water For A Natural Weight Loss Boost

    Will you try making these moringa flower cutlets at home? Let us know in the comments below!



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  • Coffee Filters Arent Just For Coffee – 6 Surprising Uses Youll Love

    Coffee Filters Arent Just For Coffee – 6 Surprising Uses Youll Love

    Coffee filters are one of those humble kitchen items that you rarely think twice about – until you run out of them! While their primary job is to brew your favourite cup of coffee, these little paper wonders have a lot more to offer. Thanks to their tight weave and high absorbency, paper coffee filters do an excellent job of removing microgrounds and oils in coffee. But these same qualities also make them useful for a variety of other things around the house. Wondering what you can do with coffee filters? Let’s find out.

    Also Read:Difference Between Filtered and Boiled Coffee: Which One Would You Pick?

    Latest and Breaking News on NDTV

    Photo: iStock

    Here Are 6 Genius Ways To Use Coffee Filters At Home

    1. Clean Glass And Mirrors

    Are you looking for a quick way to get your glass and mirrors streak-free? Then use your coffee filters. These have a smooth, lint-free texture that makes them perfect for wiping glass surfaces without leaving behind any kind of fibre. Just spray your favourite cleaner on the surface and wipe it down with a filter to make it squeaky clean. It is a cheap and perfect alternative to microfibre cloths!

    2. Absorb Oil From Fried Foods

    We all love fried snacks but not the oily mess that comes with them. Coffee filters work wonders for draining excess oil from foods like fries, pakoras or anything fried. Just place a filter on a plate and let your fried food rest over it. The filter absorbs oil without sticking to the food, which makes post-cleaning hassle-free. Plus, coffee filters are thicker than paper towels, so they won’t tear easily under the weight of your fried foods.

    3. Great For Gardening

    If gardening is your thing, then coffee filters could be your best friend! Before adding soil to a plant pot, place a filter at the bottom to cover the drainage holes. The filter will allow water to flow freely while keeping the soil in place. This won’t create any muddy mess on your patio or porch and will keep the plant intact.

    Latest and Breaking News on NDTV

    Photo: iStock

    4. Prevent Plates From Scratches

    Do you use glass plates? Then you’d understand how stacking dishes in cabinets can cause annoying scratches over them. To prevent this, place a coffee filter between each dish as a protective layer, keeping your plates nice and shiny. This is especially useful if you are storing glassware or moving houses.

    5. DIY Spice Sachets

    Scooping out bay leaves and peppercorns from your gravies and soups could be annoying. But not anymore! With coffee filters, you can make a quick DIY spice sachet. Just add whole spices like cloves, cinnamon, cardamom, etc., to the filter, tie it up with a string and place it in your pot. The flavours will infuse beautifully with an effortless clean-up. Just remove the sachet once you are done cooking. It is simple and a hassle-free way to add flavour to your dishes.

    6. Effortless Cleaning Of Snack Bowls

    Are you hosting a movie night? Then make after-cleaning super easy by lining your snack bowls with coffee filters! Whether you are munching popcorn, chips, or even trail mix – the coffee filter catches crumbs and grease, making cleanup super easy. Plus, if you are hosting multiple guests, you can hand out several individual snack bowls lined with filters. It will save a ton of time usually spent on cleaning and keeping things in order.

    Also Read:5 Clever Ways To Make Your Glass Of Cold Coffee Weight-Loss Friendly

    Can you think of any other way to use coffee filters at home? Let us know in the comments below.

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  • Love Sweet Dalia? These 5 Simple Tips Will Give You That Perfect Creamy Bowl Every Time

    Love Sweet Dalia? These 5 Simple Tips Will Give You That Perfect Creamy Bowl Every Time

    Dalia (porridge) is that one ingredient everyone loves to have in their kitchen. It’s light, super nutritious, and makes for a wholesome meal. Packed with iron, fibre, and antioxidants, Dalia is great for your immune system and a go-to for fitness lovers everywhere. Whether you’re looking to shed some extra weight or just enjoy a comforting dish, Dalia fits the bill perfectly. You can whip it up in a savoury version with lentils and veggies or go the sweet route with milk. But here’s the thing – making the perfect sweet Dalia can be tricky. A lot of us end up with a bowl that’s too runny, lumpy, or just not creamy enough. If you’ve faced this struggle, don’t worry! These five easy tips will have your sweet Dalia turning out spot-on every single time.

    Also Read: Dalia For Weight Loss: 5 Recipes That Are Healthy And Yummy

    Here Are Tips to Make Sweet Dalia That’s Always On Point:

    1. Roast the Dalia Like a Pro

    The secret to flavourful Dalia lies in roasting it well before cooking. Take the required amount of Dalia in a pan and dry roast it until you get that nutty aroma. Want to elevate the flavour? Add a little ghee while roasting. Trust us, this simple step makes a world of difference to the taste.

    2. Bring Out the Pressure Cooker

    Making Dalia in an open pan? That’s where it might go wrong. Dalia needs to cook evenly, and a pressure cooker is your best friend for this. Cooking it in a pressure cooker ensures it softens perfectly and also saves you a lot of time.

    3. Measure That Water

    Getting the water-to-Dalia ratio right is key. Too much water? It’ll spill out of the pressure cooker when the whistle blows. Add just enough water to cook the Dalia, and after two whistles, reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for a bit before switching off the flame.

    4. Milk at the Right Moment

    Here’s a pro tip: don’t just pour cold milk straight from the fridge into your Dalia. Once you release the pressure from the cooker, give the Dalia a stir and add lukewarm milk. Turn the gas on again and let it blend smoothly. Cold milk slows down the cooking process and can mess with the texture.

    5. Sweeten and Cream It Up

    Once the milk blends in, bring the Dalia to a boil. Now, add sugar as per your taste and let it simmer on low heat. This step is what gives your Dalia that creamy, rich texture. Feeling fancy? Toss in some finely chopped almonds or cashews for an extra dose of flavour and nutrition.

    And there you have it – perfect sweet Dalia every single time! Whether it’s for breakfast, a post-workout meal, or a light dinner, this recipe will never fail you. So, try these tips the next time you’re making sweet Dalia and watch your family ask for seconds.

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  • 5 Ingredients Thatll Make You Fall In Love With Plain Parathas Again

    5 Ingredients Thatll Make You Fall In Love With Plain Parathas Again

    Parathas are the ultimate Indian comfort food, made in countless ways across homes. From aloo paratha to gobi paratha, the stuffed versions usually steal the spotlight. While they’re a breakfast staple for many, let’s be real-parathas work for any meal, whether it’s lunch, dinner, or even a picnic. Now, while everyone talks about how to perfect stuffed parathas, have you ever wondered how to level up plain parathas? Probably not. But guess what? You totally can! With just a few ingredients from your kitchen, you can make plain parathas taste insanely good. These simple add-ons take your regular dough and turn it into something magical. So, here’s the tea on five game-changing ingredients to try!

    Also Read: Gobi Gajar Ka Paratha: A Deliciously Healthy Twist On The Classic Paratha

    Here Are 5 Ingredients That’ll Make You Fall In Love With Plain Parathas Again:

    Ajwain

    Ajwain (aka carom seeds) is a kitchen MVP that’s loaded with benefits. It doesn’t just add a pop of flavour; it’s also great for digestion, helping with constipation, gas, and bloating. All you have to do is mix about a teaspoon of ajwain into your dough while kneading. The result? Parathas that are not only delicious but super easy on the stomach.

    Garlic and Green Chillies

    If you’re all about bold flavours, garlic is your best friend. Crushed garlic and green chillies together? That’s a whole vibe. Just crush 2-3 green chillies with a few garlic cloves and mix this paste into your dough. Trust us, this combo is a game-changer. Your plain parathas will suddenly taste like something out of a gourmet kitchen.

    Kasuri Methi (Dried Fenugreek)

    Kasuri methi is a low-key flavour bomb that’s often used in curries and gravies. But here’s a hack-add some to your paratha dough. Crush a handful of dried fenugreek leaves and toss them in. If you’re feeling fancy, lightly fry the methi leaves for a few seconds before adding them. Adjust the quantity to your taste, but either way, it’s going to be a whole new level of yum.

    Oregano and Chilli Flakes

    Pasta and pizza lovers, this one’s for you! Oregano and chilli flakes aren’t just for Italian food-they’re perfect for parathas too. Mix a pinch of each into your dough, and if you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some mixed herbs. The result? Plain parathas with a trendy twist that’s hard to resist.

    Kalonji (Nigella Seeds)

    Kalonji, also known as nigella or onion seeds, is a small but mighty ingredient. While it’s usually used in pickles or curries, it works wonders in parathas too. These tiny black seeds add a unique twist and a burst of flavour. Don’t have kalonji? No worries. Just add a pinch of mango pickle masala instead-it’s a sneaky shortcut that tastes just as amazing.

    So, the next time you’re whipping up plain parathas, toss in one (or more) of these ingredients. You’ll be amazed at how a little tweak can make such a big difference. Happy paratha-making!

    About PayalFood in the mind, Bollywood in the heart – these two things often shimmer in Payal’s writing. Besides penning thoughts, Payal enjoys a playful tango with new and delicious recipes. Roaming around is her jam; whether catching up on the latest flicks or grooving to the beat, Payal knows how to keep her empty moments brimming with flavour and rhythm.

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  • 17 Christmas Dinner Recipes Youll Love | Best Christmas Recipes With Menu

    17 Christmas Dinner Recipes Youll Love | Best Christmas Recipes With Menu

    It’s Christmas! That time of the year when your house is laced with shades of green, red and white. The coniferous is trimmed, shaved and adorned. The mystical Frosty comes to life and stands guard in your backyard. Tis’ the season to double-check your wish-list and wait for Santa to grant all your desires. Chestnuts roast over the bonfire, minced pies, turkey and fruit cakes adorn your dinner table.

    Christmas marks the birth anniversary of Jesus Christ, whose teachings form the foundation of the religion. And do you know why Christmas candy is always shaped like a cane? Well, look at the candy upside down and you’ll have your answer! Hint: It’s essentially a ‘J’ that represents the name of …… Over the years, Christmas has ceased to be a strict Catholic practice and has been embraced by people across culture and religion. What makes Christmas a unique affair is its ability to be religious and secular at the same time. It changes with change in geography. Every culture elicits a different custom and a different tale. 

    (Also Read: 7 Best Rum Cocktails Recipes For A Spirited Christmas Celebration)

    All About Christmas Dinner

    The Christmas dinner is an exuberant feast that commemorates Christmas Eve. The traditional Christmas table is a feast like no other. To begin with, there are breads and cinnamon cookies. In Germany they eat stollen, a type of bread that is believed to resemble Christ’s swaddling clothes. In Belgium, cougnolle is baked in the shape of Baby Jesus. Next comes the roast turkey or chicken that forms the centerpiece of the table. In parts of France, you’ll mostly find roasted goose stuffed with chestnuts. More recently, roasted meats like lamb and beef have also gained popularity and are serve as an alternative to turkey. Another Catholic tradition is the Feast of the Seven Fishes, which is basically a fish pie. Christmas desserts are truly to die for. From flambéed Christmas puddings to the classic Yule log cake, you’re in for a treat. Wash them down with some traditional tipples like some mulled wine or eggnog while rum and brandy remain all-time favourites. Milk is believed to be the fuel for Santa to keep his journey going. This ritual can also be linked to the history of the Christmas tree. In Germany, people would decorate their trees, or what they called ‘a paradise tree’ with apple wafers and cookies. Santa was believed to nibble on these snacks. This later transformed into the tradition of placing cookies and milk for Santa. Side note: The ritual of making houses from ginger biscuits and cookies actually became popular after ‘The Grimm Brothers’ included this concept in their story, Hansel and Gretel.

    (Also read: Christmas: 5 Delicious Appetiser Recipes To Light Up Your Christmas Party)

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    Here’s the ultimate menu for your Christmas dinner with 17  recipes from our best chefs.

    1. Mince Pie

    The original mince pie included rabbit, patridge, hare and pheasant, along with dried fruits and spices. It was known as the Christmas Pyre and was said to resemble Jesus’ cradle. Mince pies are baked on each day of the 12 day Christmas as a sign of luck. Another custom is to accept a mince pie in every house you visit over Christmas! 

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    Mince pie is a popular Christmas dessert 

     

    2. Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Dates

    Popularly referred to as ‘Devils on horseback’, it is the traditional Christmas snack. It consists of glazed dates stuffed with chives and cream and wrapped in bacon.There, we saw you slurping. 

    (Also Read: 11 Best Bacon Recipes | Popular Bacon Recipes)

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    The dish is popularly referred to as ‘Devils on horseback

    3. Glazed Ham

    This dish offers a perfect balance of flavors. It includes a whole ham stuffed with a fruity mixture and glazed with golden syrup and jaggery. Tender and succulent, this wholesome dish is a winner. 

    (Also Read: How to Make Mutton Soft and Tender: 4 Ingenious Ways to Cook Flavoursome Mutton)

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    Glazed ham offers a perfect balance of flavors

    4.Meat Loaf

    This is a traditional recipe made with minced or ground meat which is baked in the form of a loaf. A treat for meat lovers, this recipe is made with a select mix of spices that is a treat to the soul. 

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    This dish is a treat for meat lovers

    5. Ginger Snaps

    Fresh out of the oven, cookies made with flour, butter, honey, ginger, rum and all things Christmassy. The crumbly goodness with a pungent kick is sure to take the festive fever a notch higher. 

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    6. Roasted Chicken with Mushroom and Wine Sauce

    You are in for a real treat with this recipe. Roasted chicken seeped in white wine and served with herby mushrooms.

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    Roast chicken drizzled with wine and mushroom sauce

    7. Baked Pumpkin

    Great as a side, chunks of pumpkin are tossed with fresh thyme, coriander seeds, red wine vinegar and red chilies and then baked perfect.

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    This dish is great as a side to your mains

    8.Shepherd’s Pie

    Shepherd’s pie is a classic British dish made with meat and sealed with a delightful crust of mashed potatoes. This scrumptious recipe would show you how to give it a vegetarian makeover.

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    9.Gratin of Potatoes with Garlic Cream
     

    A simple dish that tastes great. Layers of potatoes, cheese  and cream, finished with a golden crust. This dish is sinfully good.

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    10. Stuffed Mushroom Caps with Cheese

    A snack that’ll get anyone easily hooked. Mushroom caps are topped with a delicious mixture of diced onions, bell pepper, dates and cheese and baked.

    11.Mulled Wine
     

    A mix of red wine, fruits, cloves and cinnamon, served warm. This winter warmer compliments the gourmet fare.

    12. Chocolate Cake in a Pressure Cooker
     

    No oven? No problem! Here’s a scrumptiously simple way to bake a cake in a pressure cooker. It’s just brilliant and tastes nothing short of divine!

    13. Plum Cake
     

    Made with dried cherries, almonds, raisins and a whole lot of flavour, top this delicious plum cake off with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream and go straight to foodie heaven! It pairs perfectly well with your afternoon cup of tea as well.

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    A fruity and nutty cake recipe with the goodness of dried cherries, almonds, raisins and many more dried fruits.

    14. Eggless vanilla Cake in a Pressure Cooker

    An easy and fuss-free way to make a delectable vanilla cake… in a pressure cooker! Spruce it up with some buttercream frosting and enjoy it this holiday season. Trust us, it doesn’t get more classic (and sinful) than this!

     

    15. Christmas Pudding

    A wholesome christmas pudding made with sultanas, raisins, prunes and a whole lot of brandy and rum. his dry fruit, liqueur and fruit special Christmas Pudding is a slightly lighter version than the original yet it is stacked with flavour just the same.

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    No Christmas is ever complete without a delicious, generous serving of Christmas pudding.

    16. Rum Balls

    Rum ball is popular confection where the flavour of chocolate is enhanced with a hint of rum. This bite-sized dose of goodness is a popular treat during winter and Christmas festivities. 

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    Merry Christmas: Rum ball is popular confection especially during winters 

    17. Christmas Brownie

    Filled with the goodness of chocolate, soft butter, coffee and vanilla essence this Christmas special chocolate brownies is sure to bring a cheer across household. So what are you waiting for? Get baking! 

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    This Christmas special chocolate brownies is sure to bring a cheer across household

    Merry Christmas everybody! 

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  • Book Review: ‘The Rivals’ is Jane Pek’s fine new mystery novel of online dating, love and death

    Book Review: ‘The Rivals’ is Jane Pek’s fine new mystery novel of online dating, love and death

    Claudia Lin, an online dating detective in the age of AI, is hunting once again through a dark cybersphere of tech systems in “The Rivals,” the second novel in a new mystery series by Jane Pek.

    Pek, who introduced Claudia in her 2022 debut book, “The Verifiers,” has given the mystery genre fresh trappings — a vivid New York City landscape of chatbots and apps that can create chaos or sniff out fraud, and a delightfully plucky new sleuth, who is in her mid-20s, Asian American and gay.

    In “The Rivals,” Claudia and Becks Rittel are the co-owners of the fact-checking firm Veracity. It’s a tiny business — it only has one other employee, the unkempt gamer Squirrel — but helps clients of giant matchmaking platforms make sure the strangers they meet for dates are not unscrupulous liars or worse.

    “The Rivals” opens with a couple of customers from online meet-up sites seeking different kinds of assistance. One wants Veracity to make sure his new lady friend, the charming Amalia Suarez, is all she claims to be; the other, Pradeep Mehta, anxiously asks for help taking down a false online gay-dating profile that could ruin his life.

    Claudia takes on both projects, despite Becks’ protests and disparagement. A curt, tough-minded colleague in her mid-30s, Becks is nicknamed the “Blonde Assassin.” In short order, both cases present Claudia with false turns, odd developments and scary possibilities. These twists make “The Rivals” a modern mystery unfolding amid synthetic culprits — cyberworld bots known as “synths” — that can wreck real lives.

    Pek adds a few vital human ingredients to the story’s digital mix. One is Claudia’s striving but dysfunctional family. Her siblings, Charles and Coraline, and their irritable mother are introduced in an early chapter as they gather in the West Village for a meal celebrating the Chinese New Year. Coraline’s beau is there, too. Their father is out of the picture. A celebration the meal is not, but the Lin family fracas adds sparks to the narrative throughout.

    Pek also makes neighborhoods and go-to sites of Manhattan, Brooklyn and other city environs an integral and appealing part of the story. Claudia, for example, plays Ultimate frisbee in Prospect Park and takes the reader on her many rendezvous, from the touristy High Line to a bike path through Fort Washington Park.

    Claudia’s sexuality is not a central tug-of-war plot issue. But it does give an edgy lift to the story line when Claudia, as the novel’s narrator, notes the inner romantic tingles set off in her by others.

    Pek writes with wit and AI savvy. At times “The Rivals” unfolds with so much tech-heavy dialogue that it can be hard to follow. But Claudia is a winning new entry in the field of modern serial detectives. “The Rivals” hints that she has more work in store. With the freshness of Pek’s staging of online love and death, a third entry in the series will be welcome.

    ___

    AP book reviews: https://apnews.com/hub/book-reviews

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  • What the locals love about the Sunshine Coast lifestyle

    What the locals love about the Sunshine Coast lifestyle

    While it’s renowned for its beaches, Queensland’s Sunshine Coast has much more to offer, locals say, including a great climate, a welcoming community and easy access to important amenities.

    Climate for year-round outdoor living

    The mild winters, long summers and abundant clear days draw many to the Sunshine Coast, including the Clark family, who moved here from Torquay – a seaside town at the start of the Great Ocean Road in Victoria.

    “We love the beach, love surfing – and that’s what Torquay has. The Sunny Coast is exactly like it, but the climate is a million times better,” says Michael Clark, a mining company project manager who relocated with his wife and three children seven years ago.

    “The coastal aspect, the hinterland – everything around here is stunning. And we can be outdoors pretty much 365 days a year.”

    The climate definitely drives interstate migration to the area, says Sam Gardner, managing director of Gardner Vaughan Group, the developer responsible for Bask Bokarina.

    Bask Bokarina is positioned enviably close to the beach. Artist’s impression.

    Situated in Bokarina, a peaceful seaside suburb between the south-east Queensland coastal hubs of Mooloolaba and Caloundra, Bask Bokarina offers 135 spacious, beautifully appointed apartments in multiple styles over seven levels. 

    “The Sunshine Coast is increasingly recognised as a lifestyle destination,” Gardner says. “It appeals to downsizers and tourists, and people have realised they can situate their families here to live and work.

    “We’ve seen buyers come from Sydney and Melbourne who appreciate the warmer months and they’re spending more time in the water throughout the year. They’re just saying they wish they’d done it sooner.”     

    Idyllic playground for hobbies

    The weather lends itself to low-maintenance living and makes the Sunshine Coast a great place to follow your interests, says Kae Bullock, who retired to the area after selling her Gold Coast-based business.

    She is now a member of a local Probus club. Along with cruises, lawn bowls and mini golf, the group often has lunch or dinner at one of the hundreds of cafes and restaurants on the coast. They also take bus trips to the hinterland and surrounding areas.

    An aerial view of Bokarina, Lake Kawana and the surrounding hinterland. Photo: Cartelux

    The community is very welcoming, Bullock says, and she “instantly gained a wonderful group of friends” at Probus.

    Clark says his family slotted into the community through sport. His kids take part in surfing, netball, soccer and Aussie rules football, and he coaches an Aussie rules team.

    Bokarina has great parks, walking tracks and waterways, he adds, and “on weekends, we’re out walking our dog or taking the kids for a bike ride – it’s really scenic and beautiful”.

    Despite being packed with activities, the area is still peaceful, Clark says.

    “We’re pretty isolated from the tourists during the holiday season,” he says. “When we go to the supermarket, we don’t have to worry about crowds.”

    Gardner says the area appeals to people wanting to escape the hustle and bustle.

    “Bokarina has a nice boutique beachside feel about it,” he says. “That’s one reason why our buyers love the Sunshine Coast. It’s more relaxed – they’re in their own little haven without being disconnected from infrastructure.”

    The pool is one of a long list of amenities available to residents at Bask Bokarina. Artist’s impression.

    Bask Bokarina offers “a community within a community”,  he adds, with facilities like a vegetable garden and shared relaxation spaces with pergolas, day beds and barbecues.

    “But the key aspect has to be the percentage of green space paired with the proximity to the beach, all tied in with that connectivity,” Gardner says. “The design capitalises on the natural surroundings and the facilities offer our residents a great lifestyle experience.”

    Bask Bokarina is within strolling distance of the ocean, with on-site walking paths, playgrounds and parklands. Lake Kawana is a stone’s throw away for water-based pursuits like kayaking. The picturesque Glasshouse Mountains, popular with bushwalkers and climbers, are about a 30-minute drive away.

    Convenience and key amenities

    Bokarina has easy access to schools, shops and the Sunshine Coast University Hospital. 

    “We don’t really leave this area much because everything’s nearby,” says Clark, who commutes to Brisbane twice per week for work. “A big thing for me is, it’s really easy to get to the freeway.” 

    Getting around the Sunshine Coast is also easy, Bullock says.

    “It takes 35 minutes to get anywhere,” she says. “And I don’t have the stress of knowing I’ve got to battle traffic.”

    The coastal location inspired the interiors of Bask Bokarina which are fitted with neutral sandy tone. Artist’s impression.

    Gardner Vaughan Group strategically selects premium lifestyle locations for its developments, and, according to Gardner, “Bokarina fits this criteria perfectly”.

    “Our buyers are attracted by the proximity of education and healthcare facilities, arterial roads and the Sunshine Coast airport,” he says.

    “They’re all draw cards that make Bokarina an A-grade location.”

    Bask Bokarina

    Shop 6/42 Bokarina Boulevard, Bokarina, QLD 4575

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