Spicy Eggplant Curry

Who loves eggplant/aubergine/brinjal??? I would say most do, especially with some spice to tickle the taste-buds! Although it is low in nutritional benefits, it is also low in fat :) When you really love something you always find the positives in it...!

Eggplant dishes are a regular in our household and our favourite is my Spicy Eggplant Curry. Main ingredient is lots of fresh eggplant and you can use any other vegetables you choose to add to this deliciously spicy curry. Serve with hot rice or rotis and it's definitely a winner on any dinner table!

Here it is, my Spicy Eggplant Curry.

Ingredients for two serves: 1 large eggplant or couple of smaller sized, a few different vegetables (I used 1 capsicum, 1 tomato, 2 carrots), 1 onion chopped, 1 teaspoon crushed garlic, chilli flakes, cumin seeds, mustard seeds, garam masala (can be bought from Indian stores), 2 tablespoons tomato paste, 1 tablespoon oil and salt.

Make: In a wide non stick pan, heat the oil and throw in the chilli flakes, cumin seeds, mustard seeds, garlic and onion. Saute on medium flame until onion is clear and there is a lovely aroma. Add in the chopped eggplant and pan fry on high flame for 5 to 8 minutes until it is looking golden brown. Now add the remaining chopped vegetables and the garam masala and tomato paste. Pan fry together, occasionally stirring. Add salt to taste. If you like more spice, add extra chilli powder or fresh chopped chillies. Cover with a lid and let it cook for 5 to 8 minutes. You will know it is done when the vegetables are fully cooked. 

Serve with hot rice or rotis and enjoy!!

Doodh Peda (Milk Fudge)

Back to blog after a very long break! Family and travel has seen the little spare time I have being completely taken up, and rightly so :) Unpack and settle back into routines and here it is....festive season is upon us again. Time for more fun and social gatherings, but also time to think of which festive sweets to whip up at home without spending too much time and effort.

Having a little one at home, this sweet treat is one enjoyed in our house not just at festive times - Doodh Peda, my quick version! Here it is :)

Ingredients (for about 15 peda): 1 can sweetened condensed milk, 3 to 4 cups of milk powder, few tablespoons clarified butter/ghee, 1 teaspoon cardamom powder, nuts or sultanas for decoration.

Make: Empty the can of condensed milk into a thick bottom pan and warm on low flame. Gradually mix in the milk powder and continue to mix. Add in the cardamom powder and ghee. Keep stirring on low flame and if too watery, add a little more milk powder. 

After about 15 minutes, the mixture should be at the right consistency and will leave the sides of the pan easily. Take off the flame and let cool slightly. Take small amounts into your hands and roll into balls then press to form this shape shown in the picture. Use butter/ghee on your hands if needed. Decorate as desired. Serve after fully cooled.

Enjoy! Happy festivities!