Foodiection – Food Madeness

Ingredient: Cinnamon Stick

  • Masala Tea

    Masala Tea

    Masala tea, or “Masala Chai,” is a spiced Indian tea that combines the boldness of black tea with a medley of aromatic spices. This flavorful beverage is beloved for its warming qualities and the comforting balance of sweet, spicy, and creamy notes. Perfect for chilly mornings or as a relaxing afternoon treat, Masala Chai is a versatile drink that can be tailored to your taste preferences.

    Masala Chai pairs wonderfully with biscuits or savory snacks, offering a rich, spiced treat that invigorates the senses with every sip.

    Here’s the recipe for Spicy and Aromatic Masala Tea;

     

    Directions:

    • In a saucepan, bring the water to a boil. 
    • Add all the spices (cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, star anise, ginger, and peppercorns). 
    • Simmer for 3-4 minutes to infuse the flavors.
    • Stir in the black tea and brew for 2-3 minutes.
    • Add milk and sugar, then bring the tea to a gentle boil.
    • Strain the tea into cups and serve hot.
  • Cardamom Tea

    Cardamom Tea

    Cardamom tea, also known as “Elaichi Chai,” is a fragrant and comforting beverage cherished in many cultures. Its warm, slightly spicy flavor makes it perfect for cozy mornings or relaxing evenings. The infusion of cardamom not only enhances the taste but also offers numerous health benefits, such as aiding digestion and relieving stress. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this aromatic tea at home.

    Enjoy this delightful cardamom tea with biscuits or savory snacks. Its soothing aroma and rich taste will transport you to a world of tranquility with every sip.

    Here’s the recipe for Comforting and Digestive Cardamom Tea;

     

    Directions:

    • In a saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
    • Add the crushed cardamom pods and cinnamon stick. 
    • Simmer for 2-3 minutes to release the flavors.
    • Stir in the tea leaves or tea bags and let it brew for another 2-3 minutes.
    • Add sugar and milk, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
    • Strain the tea into cups and serve hot.
  • Mexican Hot Chocolate

    Mexican Hot Chocolate

    Mexican hot chocolate is a rich and flavorful twist on the classic cocoa drink, infused with warm spices like cinnamon and a hint of chili for a delightful kick. This traditional treat has roots in Mesoamerican cultures. Perfect for cozy evenings or festive gatherings, this recipe is sure to transport your taste buds to the heart of Mexico.

    Enjoy this spiced and creamy delight, perfect for warming your soul on chilly nights!

    Here’s the recipe for Delightful and Warm Mexican Hot Chocolate;

     

    Directions:

    • In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until warm but not boiling.
    • Add the Mexican chocolate, cocoa powder, sugar, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper.
    • Whisk continuously until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
    • Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
    • Pour into mugs and garnish with whipped cream or cinnamon sticks if desired.
  • Chai Latte

    Chai Latte

    This evening put something new on the table. Chai Latte is a warm, comforting blend of spiced tea and creamy milk, perfect for cozy mornings or as a soothing treat any time of day. This delightful drink combines the robust flavors of black tea with aromatic spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves, all topped off with frothy milk for a velvety finish.

    Here’ the recipe for the Hearty and Warm Chai Latte;

     

    Directions:

    • In a kettle,add water and heat it.
    • Add cinnamon sticks, cloves, green cardamom and, black peppercorns.
    • Mix well and bring it to a boil.
    • Add johar joshanda, tea bags and bring it to boil.
    • Turn off the flame,remove tea bags & strain. Chai joshanda is ready!
    • In a separate kettle, add milk, sugar and bring it to boil.
    • Remove from heat and whisk vigorously until milk is frothy (3-4 minutes).
    • In a serving cup, add Chai Joshanda ¼ cup, frothed milk ¾ cup, sprinkle cinnamon powder & serve!
  • Chole Bhature

    Chole Bhature

    An exotic, spicy Punjabi Cuisine that consists of spicy, tangy white chickpea curry served with crisp, fried and puffed bread known as Bhature.

    This crispy puffed bhature makes an excellent combination with the delicious and flavorful chana masala (chickpea curry) most often eaten at breakfast.

    However, I made this hearty meal for lunch and really loved it.

    Here’s the recipe for the Delicious Chole Bhature;

     

    Directions:

    For Bhature:

    • Add all the ingredients in a bowl and mix well.
    • Knead a soft dough.
    • Grease with oil and let rest for 1-2 hrs.
    • Make small dough balls and roll into flat breads with the help of oil. (do not roll the breads too thin)
    • Heat oil, fry until golden. (press the puris/bhature gently while frying to help puff it up)

    For Chanay:

    • Add baking soda in water and let chickpeas soak overnight or 5-6 hrs.
    • Drain soaked chickpeas.
    • Prepare 2 cups of black tea.
    • In a pressure cooker add soaked chickpeas, whole spices (mentioned in ingredients) and garlic cloves.
    • Pour in the prepared black tea in about 500 ml of water or as required.
    • Pressure cook for about 1 hour or until very soft.
    • Heat oil in a pan.
    • Add onion paste and cook for 3-4 mins.
    • Add ginger garlic paste and mix well.
    • Add tomato puree and cook for 2-3 mins.
    • Add green chilies, ginger, cumin powder, coriander powder, red pepper powder.
    • Add some water and let cook until oil separates.
    • Add in the boiled chickpeas and mix well.
    • Add a cup of water and let cook for 8-10 mins.
    • Add water if required to adjust the consistency)
    • Add garam masala powder and kasuri methi.
    • Let simmer for 2-3 mins.
    • Dish out, sprinkle on some fresh coriander.
    • Enjoy with hot puffed bhature.
  • Palak Chicken

    Palak Chicken

    This super nutritious appetizingly toothsome Palak Chicken consisting of chicken cooked with spinach, tomatoes, dill and a blend of spices is one of the popular Pakistani dishes.

    A superb combination of all these veggies and meat make an exemplary meal.

    Here’s the recipe for this Scrumptiously Flavorful Palak Chicken;

     

    Directions:

    • Heat oil in a pan.
    • Fry onion until golden.
    • Add ginger garlic paste and tomatoes.
    • Saute for a min.
    • Add chicken and saute for 1-2 mins.
    • Add the rest of the ingredients except spinach.
    • Add spinach when the chicken is half done.
    • Cover and let cook on medium flame until chicken tenders and oil separates.
    • Add quarter cup water if required.
    • Sprinkle thinly sliced ginger and green chilies.
    • Serve with rice or chapatis.
  • Peking Duck

    Peking Duck

    Peking Duck is a celebrated Chinese dish known for its crispy skin and tender meat. Originating from Beijing, this dish is traditionally served with thin pancakes, hoisin sauce, and sliced scallions, making it a delightful combination of textures and flavors.

    This unique recipe for Peking Duck brings the authentic flavors of Beijing to your kitchen, perfect for a special dinner or festive occasion.

    Here’s the recipe for the Tender and Delicious Peking Duck;

     

    Directions:

    For Chinese Five-Spice Powder

    • In a mixing grinder put all ingredients and grind well.
    • Store in an airtight jar for later use.

    For Peking Duck

    • Rinse the duck thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels. 
    • Remove any excess fat and tail.
    • Mix the honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar in a small bowl and set aside.
    • Rub the duck inside and out with salt and Chinese five-spice powder. 
    • Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate.
    • Hang the duck in a cool, dry place, or place it on a rack in the refrigerator for 24 hours. This helps to dry the skin, which is crucial for achieving crispiness.
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • Brush the duck with the honey mixture. 
    • Place the duck on a rack in a roasting pan.
    • Roast the duck for 1 hour and 30 minutes, brushing with the honey mixture every 30 minutes. 
    • Increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) for the last 10-15 minutes to crisp up the skin.
    • Remove the duck from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. 
    • Carve the duck, separating the skin from the meat.
    • Serve the crispy skin and meat with Mandarin pancakes, hoisin sauce, scallions/green onions, and cucumber slices. 
  • Mutton Stew

    Mutton Stew

    Mutton stew, a timeless classic, is a deeply flavorful dish made from slow-cooked mutton pieces that turn tender and succulent, infused with aromatic spices. Perfect for a hearty meal, this stew is best enjoyed with warm bread or steamed rice. This version of mutton stew is straightforward and highlights the rich taste of the meat.

    Here’s the recipe for Flavorful and Toothsome Mutton Stew;

     

    Directions:

    • Heat oil in a pot and add onion and fry them until light brown on low flame.
    • Add mutton, ginger and garlic and fry for 2-3 minutes.
    • Add whole red chilies, black cardamom, cinnamon sticks, black pepper, cumin seeds, bay leaf, cloves, red pepper flakes, salt, coriander powder, turmeric powder and give it a good mix. 
    • Add tomatoes and mix well. 
    • Add 2 cups of water and mix. 
    • Cover and cook until meat is tender on low flame. (You can additional water to tenderize meat)
    • Add yogurt and cook until water dries and oil separates.
    • Sprinkle whole spice powder. 
    • Garnish with green chilies.
    • Serve with steamed rice or bread.
  • Beef Paaye / Trotters

    Beef Paaye / Trotters

    Beef Paaye, also known as beef trotters, is a traditional South Asian delicacy that is slow-cooked to perfection, resulting in a rich, flavorful broth with tender, melt-in-your-mouth meat. This hearty dish is perfect for special occasions and cold winter nights, offering a warm and comforting meal that is deeply satisfying.

    Enjoy your delicious and hearty Beef Paaye, a true comfort food that brings warmth and joy to any meal!

    Here’s the recipe for Super Richness filled Beef Paaye / Trotters;

     

    Directions:

    • Clean the beef trotters thoroughly, removing any hair or debris. 
    • Rinse under cold water and set aside.
    • In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. 
    • Add cumin seeds, cinnamon stick, cloves, and bay leaves. 
    • Sauté for a minute until fragrant.
    • Add the chopped onions and cook until golden brown.
    • Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until aromatic.
    • Add the chopped tomatoes, salt, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and coriander powder. 
    • Cook until the tomatoes soften and the oil begins to separate from the masala.
    • Add the beef trotters to the pot, stirring well to coat them with the masala. 
    • Cook for 10-15 minutes, ensuring the trotters are well-browned.
    • Pour in enough water to cover the trotters (about 8-10 cups). 
    • Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. 
    • Cover and simmer for 6-8 hours, stirring occasionally. 
    • The longer the trotters simmer, the richer the broth will become.
    • About an hour before serving, add the slit green chilies to the pot.
    • Once the trotters are tender and the broth is rich and flavorful, remove from heat. 
    • Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro.
    • Serve hot with naan or steamed rice, accompanied by lemon wedges for an added zest.
  • Beef Qorma

    Beef Qorma

    Indulge in the rich flavors of Beef Qorma, a sumptuous dish that blends tender beef with a creamy, aromatic sauce. This recipe brings together traditional spices and a creamy base to create a dish that’s both comforting and exotic. Perfect for a special dinner or when you crave something truly satisfying, Beef Qorma promises to impress with its balance of spice and creaminess.

    Enjoy the creamy and aromatic Beef Qorma, a delightful dish that marries tender beef with a luscious sauce that’s perfect for savoring with loved ones.

    Here’s the recipe for Creamy and Aromatic Beef Qorma;

     

    Directions:

    • In a blender, combine soaked cashew nuts and yogurt. 
    • Blend until smooth to make a creamy mixture. Set aside.
    • Heat ghee or oil in a large pot over medium heat. 
    • Add cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, cloves, and cumin seeds. 
    • Sauté for a minute until fragrant.
    • Add sliced onions and sauté until golden brown.
    • Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for another minute.
    • Add beef cubes to the pot and brown them on all sides.
    • Sprinkle coriander powder, turmeric powder, chili powder, and salt over the beef. 
    • Mix well to coat evenly.
    • Pour in the cashew-yogurt mixture, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.
    • Cover the pot with a lid, reduce heat to low, and let it cook for 1.5 to 2 hours or until the beef is tender, stirring occasionally.
    • Once done, adjust seasoning if needed and garnish with Ginger.
    • Serve hot with steamed rice or naan bread.