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NDTV
03-08-2025
- Entertainment
- NDTV
Viral Recipe: Your Mom Will Not Stop You From Eating These Tasty Lauki Momos
Most of us grew up dodging lauki (ghiya or bottle gourd) at the dinner table. Why would anybody want to eat it? No taste, no fun, extremely healthy and boring. We would rather stay hungry than eat that lauki sabzi. On the other hand, moms are always trying to feed their kids healthy and nutritious food, and so lauki makes complete sense. So, what if there is a way to turn this most dull sabzi into something you'd actually crave? The answer is momos, yes, lauki momos. Momos prepared using lauki are actually more authentic than the greasy, overstuffed versions we often find on city streets. In the hill towns of Dehradun and Darjeeling, momos aren't just snacks, they're part of everyday home cooking. Over there, hardly anyone uses cabbage in momos stuffing. Instead, they use grated bottle gourd along with a few simple ingredients to prepare these fabulous and comforting momos. Chef Neha Deepak Shah recently brought this regional gem into the spotlight with a now-viral Instagram reel, and the internet can't get enough. This healthy twist on momos has already been viewed 900K times. Why You'll Love Lauki Momos If you grew up hating lauki (bottle gourd), this dish might just flip the narrative. As chef Neha jokes in her viral reel, " Mumma ne lauki agar aise khilayi hoti toh aaj mera lauki ke saath love affair hota! Faltu hi lauki ko badnaam kiya maine." This humble vegetable, when prepared the pahadi way, becomes the star of a juicy, delicate momo. The real charm lies in the simplicity of ingredients and a technique that preserves the natural taste and moisture. A Regional Favourite From The Hills In Dehradun and parts of the North-East like Darjeeling and Kalimpong, momos aren't made with cabbage. Instead, locals prefer grated lauki or squash, lightly seasoned and steamed to perfection. The filling is not even sautéed in general; it is just mixed raw, squeezed of excess water, and stuffed into thin wrappers. This makes the momos juicier and softer, with no oily aftertaste. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Neha Deepak Shah (@nehadeepakshah) How To Make Dehradun-Style Lauki Momos At Home Start by peeling and grating a medium-sized lauki (bottle gourd). Lightly squeeze out the excess moisture, but don't overdo it, as you want the filling to stay juicy. Next, finely chop a small onion and a green chilli, and mix them into the lauki along with a teaspoon of grated ginger and a teaspoon of crushed garlic. Add a pinch of salt and a teaspoon of oil. You can also mix in some crumbled paneer, although it's completely optional. Give everything a good mix and set it aside. You can sauté the mixture or use the filling directly. If you are cooking it, make sure the mixture is cool before stuffing, as a warm filling can break the thin wrappers. Roll out your momo dough into very thin circles, place a spoonful of the filling in the centre, and seal carefully. Preheat your steamer and steam the momos on high heat for about 7-8 minutes until they're cooked through. Serve It Right With Green Chutney These momos are not served with the popular spicy red chutney. Traditionally, these are paired with a fresh green chutney made with coriander and tomato. The chutney adds a zesty contrast to the mellow flavour of the filling. With minimal oil, fresh ingredients, and a recipe that's been tried and loved in the hill regions of India, these momos are as comforting as they are clean. If you're someone who loves momos but wants to make better choices, these lauki momos might just be your new favourite thing. Try them once, even your mom won't say no.
NDTV
21-07-2025
- General
- NDTV
How To Make Instant Benne Dosa In Just 15 Minutes (Recipe Inside)
Dosa, the South Indian staple, has captured hearts across the country with its versatility and flavour. From the classic masala dosa to the innovative ragi dosa, there's a variety for every palate. Benne dosa, in particular, has gained immense popularity for its crispy, buttery goodness. While it's easily available at restaurants and cafes, many of us hesitate to make it at home, thinking it's a tedious process. But what if we told you that you can whip up a delicious benne dosa in just 15 minutes? Yes, you read that right! Masterchef Neha Deepak Shah shared a simple recipe for instant benne dosa on her Instagram page, and we're excited to share it with you. Check it out below! Also Read: Love Dosa? Here Are 6 Signs That Say You're A True Fan What Is Benne Dosa? Benne dosa is a type of South Indian dosa that's popular in Karnataka, especially in Bengaluru. The name "benne" translates to "butter" in Kannada, and this dosa is indeed smothered in butter, which lends it a rich, crispy texture. Traditionally, it's made with a fermented batter of rice and lentils. However, this instant version uses rice flour and gram flour instead, making it easier to prepare. What's The Texture Of Benne Dosa? The texture of benne dosa is truly delightful! It boasts a crispy, golden-brown exterior that's slightly caramelised from the generous helping of butter, and a soft, fluffy interior that's just right. When you take a bite, the crunch of the outside gives way to the softness inside, creating a match made in heaven. Is Benne Dosa Healthy? Well, let's be real - benne dosa is not exactly a healthy food, thanks to all the butter and ghee involved! But, it's definitely a healthier option than some other fried or oily snacks out there. The dosa batter itself is made with fermented rice and lentils, which are good sources of protein and fibre. What To Serve With Benne Dosa? Benne dosa is super versatile, so you can serve it with all sorts of things. Some popular options include sambar, coconut chutney, tomato chutney, or even just plain old chutney powder. You could also try serving it with some spicy chutneys or pickles for a kick. How To Make Instant Benne Dosa At Home | Benne Dosa Recipe Making benne dosa at home is pretty simple. Follow these steps: In a food processor, add rice flour, gram flour, salt, potatoes, curd, Kashmiri red chilli powder, and a little water. Grind to form a smooth batter. Once done, divide the batter into two parts. Just before making the dosa, add a little baking soda to it and mix well. Spread the dosa batter on a heated tawa and spread it evenly. Make sure it's not too thin. Spread some ghee or benne (butter) over the dosa and let it cook. Cook it on a low flame so that it becomes nice and crisp. Flip and cook on the other side. Serve hot with extra benne and enjoy! Watch the full recipe video below: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Neha Deepak Shah (@nehadeepakshah)
India Today
02-07-2025
- Lifestyle
- India Today
Can the mango be considered the most adaptable fruit in cooking and desserts?
In India, mango isn't just a fruit, it's a seasonal obsession. From April to June, these golden treasures command attention in markets and menus, filling the air with their sweet perfume that instantly transports people back to their cherished memories. Indians don't say 'summer has arrived', they say 'mango season is here.'Indiatoday spoke with Neha Deepak Shah, a well-known chef, content creator, and former MasterChef India finalist to get more insights on (Hapus): The Alphonso mango reigns supreme in the world of desserts. Though essential in crafting Shrikhand, Kulfi, and Pune's famous Mastani, this fruit is suitable to be consumed raw as distinctive Totapuri, excels in pickles and chutneys. These aren't mere condiments but edible nostalgia, connecting generations through taste with their perfect balance of salt, spice, and and Langra:Gujarat's Kesar and the Langra from Uttar Pradesh shine in multiple preparations. Their balanced sweetness makes them ideal for aamras, that divine mango pure served with hot puris. Kesar and Langra are also ideal for milkshakes and APPLICATIONS ACROSS COURSES:The mango's remarkable versatility positions it uniquely in Indian cuisine, appearing as an appetizer, main course, and mango: The perfect startUnripe mangoes become zesty chutneys and pickles that balance rich meals with their tartness. Mixed with herbs and spices, they create aam panna, the refreshing summer drink that helps beat the mango: Sweet splendourRipened mangoes become the centrepiece of desserts such as aamras that define summer indulgence. Mango shrikhand balances the fruit's sweetness against yogurt's tang, while mango kulfi dominates the frozen dessert market during a display of culinary sophistication, some regions incorporate the fruit into savoury rice preparations. Mango pulao interweaves aromatic basmati with pieces of semi-ripe fruit, demonstrating how deeply mangoes are woven into the Indian culinary savory spectrum:Mangoes shine in main courses across regional cuisines. Andhra's Mango Dal gains complexity from the fruit's sweet-tart notes. Kerala's Mango curry balances sweetness with robust spicing and coconut richness, while Gujarat's Mango Kadhi transforms yogurt preparations with fruity TECHNIQUESIn India's culinary landscape, necessity has birthed innovation. To extend the pleasure of these ochre-colored treasures beyond their fleeting season, generations have perfected preservation methods that transform mangoes into year-round pantry mango slices:Sun-drying transforms unripe mango slices into amchur! This simple preservation technique yields a seasoning that enlivens everything from hearty stews to street food favourites like chaat, ensuring that mango's bright acidity remains available regardless of with mustard oil:Traditional mango pickles are preservation artistry, maturing over months in mustard oil and balanced spices lasting through the seasons. This slow process develops unmatched depth and complexity, perfectly preserving summer's essence through symbolism:Mango leaves are auspicious in Hindu festivities, decorating entrances as prosperity symbols. Mango motifs appear in traditional Indian textiles and decor, from paisley patterns in silk sarees to carved wooden details—making this fruit a true cultural from kitchen to culture, the mango's unparalleled versatility and deep-rooted significance truly crown it as India's enduring golden treasure.- Ends
NDTV
01-07-2025
- Health
- NDTV
How To Make Mango Cornetto-Style Ice Cream At Home (Recipe Inside)
Mangoes are what make summer exciting, don't they? The sweet, juicy flavour of a ripe mango is the perfect treat to beat the scorching heat. But what if you could take that flavour to the next level and turn it into a creamy, dreamy ice cream? Meet the Mango Cornetto, a game-changing dessert that's about to become your new summer obsession! Imagine biting into a crunchy cone filled with cool and creamy mango goodness. It's the perfect treat to beat the summer heat. The recipe for this mango cornetto ice cream was shared by MasterChef Neha Deepak Shah on her Instagram handle. Also Read: 5 Trending Mango Dishes You Have To Try Before The Season Ends What Makes Mango Cornetto A Must-Try? Mango cornetto offers a delicious way to enjoy the king of fruits. While store-bought mango ice cream is convenient, this homemade version gives it tough competition in terms of taste. It requires just a handful of ingredients and is super easy to make, making it an ideal treat for hot summer days. What Mangoes Are Best For Making This Ice Cream? You can use any mangoes of your choice to make this ice cream. But for the best flavour, consider using Alphonso mangoes. This variety is loved for its exceptional taste, flavour and aroma. Apart from these, you can also use Dasheri mangoes. Is Mango Cornetto Healthy? This depends on the type of ingredients you use to make the ice cream. This recipe uses condensed milk as a sweetener, which is high in calories. To make it healthier, you can swap it with sugar substitutes like stevia or any other natural sweetener of your choice. How To Ensure Mango Cornetto Turns Out Creamy? To achieve a perfectly creamy texture, ensure you whip the cream nicely. You should whip it until it forms a peak-like consistency. Avoid over mixing as it can alter the consistency of the ice cream. Additionally, be sure to combine the ingredients well. How To Make Mango Cornetto-Style Ice Cream | Mango Ice Cream Recipe To make mango cornetto ice cream at home, follow these steps: Start by whipping heavy cream in a large bowl until soft peaks form. Once done, add condensed milk, fresh mango puree and chopped mangoes. Gently fold the mixture so that everything combines well. To make the cone, add chunks of white and dark chocolate to a piping bag. Dip the piping bag in lukewarm water so that it melts. Use a knife from the outside to spread it evenly. Now, pour the prepared mango puree into the cone. Top it with mango puree and freshly cut mango pieces. Freeze the cones for a few hours or until fully firm. Serve chilled and enjoy! Watch the full recipe video below: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Neha Deepak Shah (@nehadeepakshah)
News18
08-06-2025
- Health
- News18
Elevate Your Snacking Game With These Celebrity Chef-Approved Pecan Recipes
Last Updated: These delicious and wholesome recipes celebrate the rich, buttery crunch of pecans. Each recipe is packed with goodness and is easy to make at home. There's something deeply satisfying about a snack that's both nourishing and delicious – and pecans strike that perfect balance. With their rich, buttery crunch and natural sweetness, pecans aren't just an indulgence, they're a powerhouse of nutrition. Loaded with antioxidants, heart-healthy fats, plant-based protein, and essential vitamins and minerals, pecans support energy, brain health, and overall wellness. Whether sprinkled over a salad, blended into smoothies, or enjoyed straight from the jar, pecans add a touch of wholesome luxury to everyday snacking. On behalf of American Pecans, renowned chefs Meghna Kamdar and Neha Deepak Shah have crafted some delicious, wholesome treats featuring the rich, buttery crunch of pecans. From Apple & Pecan Doughnuts to No-Sugar Pecan Date Bars to the decadent Double Chocolate Pecan Cookies, each recipe is packed with goodness and is easy to make at home. Ingredients Method Take pecan nuts and dry roast them. Coarsely chop and keep aside. Cut apples into a thick round slice. Remove the centre so that you can get doughnut-shaped apple slices. Melt dark chocolate. Dip apple slices in the melted chocolate. Immediately, drizzle some peanut butter and chopped roasted pecans. Keep these in the fridge; you can have these for 1-2 days. No Sugar Pecan Nut Date Bar by Chef Meghna Kamdar Method To make the Pecan Nut Base Take a cup of pecans and dry roast them. Take a cup of oats and dry roast them, and mix them with pecan nuts. In a grinder, add roasted pecan nuts and oats and grind them. In a bowl, add the ground mixture and take 2 tablespoons of peanut butter. Add a tbsp virgin coconut oil (or 1 tsp melted butter as an alternative to oil) Add 2-3 tablespoons maple syrup (you can substitute honey or jaggery powder). Add a pinch of salt. Mix everything well and set it on a lined tray. Pecan Nuts Base is ready. To make Date Caramel Take soft dates and add some warm water. Make a smooth paste and spread it over the pecan mixture. Set it in the fridge to set for an hour. No Sugar Pecan nut date bar is ready. Garnish with roasted pecans. Double Chocolate Pecan Cookies by Chef Neha Deepak Shah Ingredients 1/3 cup chopped pecans 125 grams / 1 cup maida 50 grams / 4 tbsp caster sugar 50 grams / 4 tbsp brown sugar (smallest Granules) 75 grams soft salted butter ½ tsp vanilla essence 2 tbsp cold milk ¼ tsp baking soda (Mix it with the flour) ¼ tsp salt 75 grams dark & milk chocolate (chopped into chunks or chocolate chips) Some flaky sea salt – Optional top videos View all Method Begin by creaming together butter, brown sugar, caster sugar, and vanilla essence. Gradually incorporate milk and continue to cream the mixture using an electric beater. Blend in the flour thoroughly, then add pecans, milk, and dark chocolate, ensuring a well-combined dough. Shape small portions of the dough into cookies and adorn them with additional pecans and chocolate. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 15 minutes. After baking, allow the cookies to cool before indulging in their delightful taste! The News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health, fashion, travel, food, and culture — with wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration, and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! tags : food lifestyle recipes Location : Delhi, India, India First Published: June 08, 2025, 15:14 IST News lifestyle » food Elevate Your Snacking Game With These Celebrity Chef-Approved Pecan Recipes
