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Showing posts from January, 2025

Baba ganoush

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 ﷽ Baba Ganoush – A Smoky, Flavorful Mediterranean Delight Baba Ganoush is a creamy, smoky eggplant dip that’s as simple as it is delicious. This classic dish, often enjoyed with warm pita or crisp vegetables, combines roasted eggplant with vibrant Mediterranean flavors. A touch of pomegranate molasses adds a subtle sweetness, while fresh herbs and spices create a well-balanced, savory depth. For the best taste, let it rest for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Ingredients: 1 eggplant 1 tomato 2-3 garlic pods ½ onion, finely chopped 1 small piece of green bell pepper, finely chopped 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional, for added spice I didn't use) Finely chopped parsley ½ lime, juiced Olive oil Pomegranate molasses Ground cumin Salt, to taste Pepper, to taste Paprika powder Pomegranate seeds for garnish Directions: Preheat the air fryer to 205°C (400°F). Slice the eggplant in half lengthwise, score the flesh, and season with salt, pep...

Bao Buns & Orange Chicken

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  Fluffy Bao Buns Recipe There’s something magical about biting into a soft, pillowy bao bun. These steamed delights, originating from Chinese cuisine, have become a favorite for their versatility—perfect for stuffing with savory fillings or enjoying plain. Whether you’re making these for a special occasion or a casual meal, this recipe will guide you to create bao buns that are light, airy, and absolutely delicious. Let’s get started! Ingredients: ⅓ cup lukewarm water ½ cup lukewarm milk 1 tablespoon active dry yeast 4 tablespoons sugar (divided: 1 tablespoon + 3 tablespoons) 2 tablespoons oil 2½ cups all-purpose flour ½ teaspoon baking powder ¼ teaspoon salt Instructions: Activate the Yeast: In a cup, combine the lukewarm milk, water, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Stir well and let it proof for 5-10 minutes, until bubbly. Prepare the Wet Ingredients: Add the oil to the yeast mixture and mix well. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, baki...

Manaakish (مناقيش)

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  Manaakish  Recipe Ingredients For the Dough: 3 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon salt 2 tablespoons olive oil ½ cup warm water ½ cup warm milk 1 tablespoon active dry yeast (or ¾ tablespoon instant dry yeast) 1 teaspoon sugar For the Toppings: Zaatar Topping: Zaatar spice blend Olive oil (enough to create a smooth, spreadable paste) Cheese Topping: Akawi cheese (soak in water for a few hours to reduce saltiness, then drain) Alternative blends: Cream cheese + mozzarella Nabulsi cheese + mozzarella Feta cheese + mozzarella Nigella seeds (optional, for added flavor) Instructions 1. Prepare the Dough: In a small bowl, proof the yeast: Mix warm water, warm milk, and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the proofed yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour mixture. Knead the dough until smooth and elastic (about 8–10 minutes by hand or 5 mi...

Cajun Chicken Skewers

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    Cajun Chicken Skewers: Ingredients: 350g-400g boneless chicken, cut into bite-sized cubes 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste 1 tablespoon plain yogurt 1 teaspoon tomato paste 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)  Homemade cajun seasoning recipe ½ tsp salt (or to taste) 1 teaspoon olive oil (plus more for grilling) Instructions: Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine ginger-garlic paste, yogurt, tomato paste, Cajun seasoning, salt, and olive oil. Mix well to form a smooth marinade. Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4  hours for better flavor. Prepare the Skewers: While the chicken marinates, soak wooden skewers in water for 15-20 minutes to prevent burning during cooking. Assemble the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the soaked skewers, Can add capsicum or onion in between each piece for extra flavour. Cook ...

Wholewheat Choco Chunk Cookies

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  Wholewheat Chocochunk Cookies  Ingredients: Wet Ingredients: 100g unsalted butter, softened 1 cup brown sugar (or ½ cup brown sugar + ½ cup raw sugar) 1 large egg 1 tsp vanilla extract Dry Ingredients: 1½ cups whole wheat flour ¾ tsp salt ¾ tsp baking powder ½ tsp baking soda Add-ins: 1 cup chopped chocolate (white and milk chocolate mix or any preferred type) Instructions: Prepare Baking Sheet and Preheat Oven Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) . Sift Dry Ingredients In a medium bowl, sift the whole wheat flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda together. Return any wheat bran left in the sifter back into the flour mixture. Cream Butter and Sugar In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes). Combine Wet Ingredients Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat until fully combined. Incorporate Dry Ingredients Gradually add the sifted dry ...

Cajun Barley risotto

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  Cajun Barley Risotto  Barley is a nutrient-rich whole grain packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It aids digestion, lowers cholesterol, and helps regulate blood sugar levels. Its antioxidants reduce inflammation, while its fiber supports heart health and weight management. Barley also boosts energy and strengthens the immune system, making it a valuable part of a healthy diet. Recipe Ingredients: 2 cups whole barley (rinsed and washed) 1 tablespoon oil 2–3 garlic cloves , crushed 1 onion , diced 2 tomatoes , pureed 1 tablespoon jaggery (or brown sugar) 1 teaspoon vinegar 1 tablespoon tomato paste 2 tablespoon Cajun seasoning  Home made Cajun Seasoning 4 cups boiling water or chicken stock 1 chicken stock cube (optional) Salt and pepper to taste Instructions: Prepare Barley: Rinse the barley thoroughly under cold water to remove any impurities. Set aside. Sauté Aromatics: Heat oil in a pressure cooker over medium heat. Add the crushed garlic and diced onion...

Homemade Cajun Seasoning Recipe

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  Homemade Cajun Seasoning Recipe Ingredients: ¼ cup paprika (preferably smoked) 4 teaspoons Kashmiri chili powder (for mild heat and vibrant color) 8 teaspoons garlic powder 4 teaspoons onion powder 4 teaspoons dried oregano 4 teaspoons dried thyme 4 teaspoons black pepper powder Instructions: Combine Ingredients: Measure all the spices into a clean, dry mixing bowl. Mix Well: Stir thoroughly until the spices are evenly combined. Store: Transfer the Cajun seasoning blend into an airtight jar or container. Store it in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months. Use: Add this versatile spice blend to your risottos, pastas, meats, vegetables, or soups for a bold and flavorful kick!