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    Home » Recipes

    Vankaya Pachadi Recipe - Andhra Style Brinjal Chutney Recipe {Video}

    Vankaya Pachadi Recipe - Andhra Style Brinjal Chutney Recipe {Video}

    February 8, 2019

    Vankaya Pachadi Recipe - A healthy and delicious Andhra style eggplant/brinjal chutney recipe for rice. This Andhra vankaya pachadi is so simple to make and tastes great with steamed rice and ghee. Traditionally, we make this chutney with green brinjals but if you don't get them you can replace with purple ones.

    Few Tips to Make the Best Vankaya Pachadi

    • Use the green brinjals to make the authentic chutney.
    • Try not to burn the spices and lentils.
    • Do not use any water to grind the chutney.
    • Grind the roasted lentils into a fine powder. Do not grind the roasted brinjals into smooth to get the right texture.

    How to Serve Andhra Vankaya Pachadi?

    This chutney goes well with hot steamed rice with a dollop of ghee.

    Few More Brinjal Recipes on the blog:

    • Gutti Vankaya Kobbari Karam
    • Kathirikai Sambar
    • Kathirikai Rasavangi
    • Gutti Vankaya Koora Podi
    • Baingan Bharta
    • Vankaya Jeelakarra Karam
    • Kalchina Vankaya Karam

    How to Make Andhra Vankaya Pachadi Recipe Video below:

    Print Recipe

    Vankaya Pachadi Recipe - Andhra Style Brinjal Chutney

    How to Make Andhra Vankaya Pachadi Recipe with step by step photos and video. 
    Prep Time5 minutes mins
    Cook Time25 minutes mins
    Total Time30 minutes mins
    Course: Side Dish
    Cuisine: Andhra, Indian
    Keyword: South Indian Food
    Servings: 4
    Calories: 243kcal
    Author: Hari Chandana Ponnaluri

    Ingredients

    • 10 Small Eggplants
    • 1.5 tablespoon Coriander Seeds
    • 1 tablespoon Urad Dal
    • ¼ teaspoon Fenugreek Seeds
    • 7 Dried Red Chillies
    • ½ tablespoon Tamarind
    • ¼ teaspoon Turmeric Powder
    • 2.5 tablespoon Oil
    • Salt to taste

    Instructions

    • Soak the halved brinjals in salted water until use.
    • Heat one tablespoon of oil in a pan. Add coriander seeds, urad dal and fenugreek seeds and roast until light brown color.
    • When they are lightly browned, add red chillies and continue roasting until they are golden brown. 
    • Remove them from the pan and set aside.
    • In the same pan add the remaining oil. Drain water from brinjals and add them to the pan.
    • Add turmeric powder and salt and saute for a minute.
    • Cover the pan with a lid and let it cook over a low flame.
    • After some time, open the lid and flip the brinjal pieces.
    • Cover and continue cooking.
    • When they are almost cooked, add tamarind to the pan. Cover and cook completely.
    • Turn off the heat and let it cool completely.
    • Grind the roasted lentils and spices into a powder. Add the roasted brinjals to it and pulse the mixie for a couple of times.
    • Do not grind it into a smooth paste.
    • Transfer the chutney to a bowl and serve with hot rice.

    Video

    Youtube video

    Nutrition

    Calories: 243kcal | Carbohydrates: 38g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 13mg | Potassium: 1345mg | Fiber: 18g | Sugar: 21g | Vitamin A: 360IU | Vitamin C: 13.1mg | Calcium: 64mg | Iron: 2.1mg

    Andhra Brinjal Chutney Recipe with step by step photos

    soaking brinjals in salted water to make chutney

    • Wash the eggplants and remove the stem. Cut them into two.
    • Add some salt to a bowlful of water.
    • Soak the halved brinjals in salted water until use.

    • Heat one tablespoon of oil.
    • Add coriander seeds, urad dal and fenugreek seeds.
    • Keep frying until they are a light brown color.

    • Add red chillies and continue frying until they are a golden brown color.

    • Remove them from the pan and keep aside.

    • In the same pan, add another 1.5 tablespoons of oil.
    • Add the soaked eggplants to the pan.
    • Add turmeric powder and required salt.

    • Mix everything well and saute for a minute.

    • Cover with a lid and let it cook over a low flame.
    • After some time, open the lid and flip the brinjal pieces.

    • Add tamarind to the pan. Cover and cook completely.

    • Turn off the flame and let it cool completely.

    • Transfer the roasted coriander seeds and chillies to a blender or mixie jar.

    • Grind it to a powder.

    • Add the roasted brinjals to the jar and pulse for a couple of times.
    • Do not make it into a fine paste.

    • Transfer it to a serving bowl and serve with rice.

     

    Chikoo Chocolate Smoothie Recipe - Sapota Choco Smoothie Recipe {Video}

    February 3, 2019

    Chikoo Chocolate Smoothie Recipe - A super delicious and refreshing smoothie made with sapotas or chikoo and cocoa powder. If you are looking for more beverage recipes then check the below recipes.

    Few More Beverage Recipes on the blog:

    • Chocolate Strawberry Banana Smoothie
    • Mohabbat Ka Sharbat
    • Mango Gulkand Lassi
    • Nungu Paal
    • Avocado Lassi
    • Mango Mastani
    • Shikanji

    How to Make Chikoo Chocolate Smoothie Recipe below:

    Print Recipe

    Chikoo Chocolate Smoothie Recipe

    An easy and delicious smoothie made with sapotas or chikoo and cocoa powder.
    Prep Time5 minutes mins
    Total Time5 minutes mins
    Course: Beverage
    Cuisine: Indian
    Keyword: Smoothie Recipes
    Servings: 2
    Calories: 236kcal
    Author: Hari Chandana Ponnaluri

    Ingredients

    • 1 cup Sapota
    • ½ cup Yogurt
    • ½ cup Milk
    • 2.5 tablespoon Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
    • 2 tablespoon Sugar
    • Ice Cubes as needed

    Instructions

    • Wash, peel and de-seed the sapotas.
    • Combine the peeled sapota or chikoo, yogurt, milk, cocoa powder, sugar and some ice cubes in a blender or mixie jar.
    • Blend until everything is smooth. 
    • Pour the smoothie into a glass or mug.
    • Serve chilled. 

    Video

    Youtube video

    Notes

    Adjust the smoothie consistency by adding more milk or water.
    Use more or less sugar as per your taste

    Nutrition

    Calories: 236kcal | Carbohydrates: 45g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 14mg | Sodium: 70mg | Potassium: 510mg | Fiber: 8g | Sugar: 18g | Vitamin A: 210IU | Vitamin C: 24.3mg | Calcium: 177mg | Iron: 1.8mg

    Foxtail Millet Upma Recipe - Thinai Upma - Korralu Upma Recipe {Video}

    January 31, 2019

    Foxtail Millet Upma Recipe - A healthy and delicious South Indian savory breakfast dish made with foxtail millets, spices and mixed vegetables. Foxtail millet is also known as Korralu in Telugu, Thinai in Tamil, Navane in Kannada and Kangni in Hindi. This upma is so versatile and can be served as a breakfast, lunch or dinner. This millet upma tastes great with yogurt.

    Few More Millet Recipes on the blog:

    • Instant Ragi Idli
    • Millet Sweet Pongal
    • Millet Methi Pulao
    • Pudina Millet Rice
    • Eggless Bajra Almond Cookies
    • Korralu Mamidikaya Pulihora
    • Thengai Ragi Sevai

    How to Make Mixed Veg Millet Upma Recipe Video Below:

    Print Recipe
    5 from 2 votes

    South Indian Foxtail Millet Upma Recipe

    How to Make Foxtail Millet Upma / Korra Upma / Navane Uppittu / Thinai Upma Recipe - An easy and healthy South Indian Upma recipe made with foxtail millets, mixed vegetables and spices.
    Prep Time10 minutes mins
    Cook Time30 minutes mins
    Total Time40 minutes mins
    Course: Breakfast, Dinner, Main Course
    Cuisine: Indian, South Indian
    Keyword: Indian Food, Millet Recipes
    Servings: 2
    Calories: 447kcal
    Author: Hari Chandana Ponnaluri

    Ingredients

    • ½ cup Foxtail Millets
    • ½ cup Carrots finely chopped
    • ¼ cup Green Peas
    • ¼ cup Green Beans
    • 1 Onion
    • 1.5 cups Water
    • ½ tablespoon Ginger finely chopped
    • 1 Green Chilli or as needed
    • ½ teaspoon Mustard Seeds
    • ½ teaspoon Chana Dal
    • ½ teaspoon Urad Dal
    • 1 tablespoon Peanuts
    • 2 tbsp + 1 tsp Ghee
    • ¼ teaspoon Turmeric Powder
    • 1 Sprig Curry Leaves
    • 10 Cashews
    • Salt to taste

    Instructions

    • Heat 2 tablespoons of ghee in a pan. 
    • Add mustard seeds, urad dal, chana dal and peanuts.
    • Saute until they are light brown color.
    • Add cashews, finely chopped ginger, finely chopped green chilli and curry leaves to it and fry for a minute.
    • Add chopped onion to it and fry until they are light brown color.
    • Now add finely chopped carrots, green peas, finely chopped green beans and turmeric powder.
    • Combine and saute them for a minute.
    • Pour water and bring it to a rolling boil.
    • Add salt and rinsed millets to the boiling water.
    • Reduce the flame to low and cover the pan with a lid.
    • Let it cool completely.
    • When it is done, add one teaspoon of ghee to it and combine well.
    • Serve hot with yogurt.

    Video

    Youtube video

    Notes

    If you are vegan, use oil instead of ghee.
    You can use any of your favorite vegetables to make this upma.
    Make sure you use finely chopped veggies to ensure even cooking.
     

    Nutrition

    Calories: 447kcal | Carbohydrates: 53g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 22g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Cholesterol: 38mg | Sodium: 115mg | Potassium: 423mg | Fiber: 9g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 5620IU | Vitamin C: 37.6mg | Calcium: 39mg | Iron: 2.9mg

    Thinai Upma or Korralu Upma Recipe with step by step photos:

    • Peel and chop onion into small pieces and set aside.
    • Finely chop the green beans and peeled carrots and keep them aside.

    • Heat two tablespoons of ghee or oil in a wide and heavy bottomed pan.
    • Add mustard seeds, urad dal, chana dal and peanuts. Fry until they are light brown color.

     

    • Now add cashews, finely chopped green chilli, finely chopped ginger and curry leaves to it and fry for a minute.

    • Add finely chopped onion to it.

    • Continue frying until they are lightly browned.

    • Now add the chopped veggies, green peas and turmeric powder.

    • Combine well and saute for a minute.

    • Pour 1.5 cups of water and bring it to a rolling boil.

    • Add salt and rinsed millets. Combine well.
    • Let it cook on a low flame until it is cooked completely.

    • When it is done, add one teaspoon of ghee and combine well.
    • Remove from the flame and serve hot.

     

    Cheruku Rasam Pongali Recipe - Karumbu Chaaru Pongal - Sugarcane Juice Pongal Recipe

    January 8, 2019

    Cheruku Rasam Pongali or Karumbu Chaaru Pongal is a delicious, soft and mild South Indian style rice pudding made with rice, lentils, ghee and sugarcane juice. This pongal recipe is so quick to make and perfect for Makar Sankranti or Pongal festival.

    Few More South Indian Recipes on the blog:

    • Bellam Paramannam
    • Paal Kozhukattai
    • Poornam Boorelu
    • Pesara Poornalu
    • Nuvvula Laddu
    • Ellu Kozhukattai
    • Pulihora
    • Saggubiyyam Payasam

    How to Make Sugarcane Juice Pongal Recipe Video Below:

    Print Recipe

    Sugarcane Juice Pongal - Cheruku Rasam Pongali Recipe

    How to Make Sugarcane juice pongal or Karumbu Chaaru Pongal recipe with step by step photos and video. Makar Sankranti Special Pongal Recipe
    Prep Time5 minutes mins
    Cook Time20 minutes mins
    Total Time25 minutes mins
    Course: Dessert
    Cuisine: Indian, South Indian
    Keyword: Indian Food, Indian Sweets, Makar Sankranti Recipes
    Servings: 4
    Calories: 300kcal
    Author: Hari Chandana Ponnaluri

    Ingredients

    • ½ cup Raw Rice
    • ¼ cup Moong Dal
    • 3 cups Sugarcane Juice
    • 3-4 tablespoon Ghee
    • ½ teaspoon Cardamom Powder
    • 8 Cashews
    • 1 Raisins
    • A pinch of Edible Camphor

    Instructions

    • Heat one teaspoon of ghee in a pan and roast the moong dal for 2- 3 minutes.
    • Combine the roasted moong dal, rinsed rice and sugar cane juice and pressure cook for 5-6 whistles.
    • Lightly mash the cooked rice mixture.
    • Add cardamom powder and edible camphor to it and combine well.
    • Heat remaining ghee in a pan. Add cashews and fry until light brown color. 
    • When the cashews are lightly browned, add raisins and continue frying till they are browned.
    • Remove from the pan and pour over the prepared pongal.
    • Mix well and serve!

    Video

    Youtube video

    Notes

    Do not use edible camphor more than a pinch.
    Add a little sugar and cook for a while if you want to increase the sweetness.
    Always use freshly squeezed sugarcane juice.
     

    Nutrition

    Calories: 300kcal | Carbohydrates: 43g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Cholesterol: 28mg | Sodium: 33mg | Potassium: 200mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 16g | Vitamin A: 15IU | Vitamin C: 0.7mg | Calcium: 24mg | Iron: 1.2mg

    Karumbu Chaaru Pongal Recipe with Step by Step Photos:

    • Heat one teaspoon of ghee in a heavy bottomed pan or pressure pan.
    • Add measured moong dal to the ghee.

    • Roast the moong dal for 2-3 minutes or until they are a light golden color and aromatic.
    • Remove from the heat.

    • Combine the roasted moong dal, washed rice and measured fresh sugarcane juice.

    • Pressure cook it for 5-6 whistles are until soft.

    • When the rice is still hot, lightly mash it with a spatula.

     

    • Crush a pinch of edible camphor / pacha karpooram / pachai karpooram and add it to the mashed rice.

    • And add cardamom powder to it.

    • Combine well and keep it aside.

    • Heat remaining ghee in a pan to fry the cashews.
    • Add cashews and fry until they are a light brown color.
    • Add raisins and continue frying till they are a golden brown color.
    • Remove from the heat and pour it over the pongal.
    • Mix until well combined and serve.

    Akhrot Ka Halwa - How to Make Walnut Halwa Recipe {Video}

    January 2, 2019

    Akhrot Ka Halwa or Walnut Halwa - Rich, nutty and delicious Indian dessert for winter. 

    walnut halwa decorated with silver foil and saffron

    Walnut Halwa or Akhrot Ka Halwa is a very delicious and rich winter dessert. Also, it is a super quick Indian dessert that can be made with only 5 ingredients. This winter dessert is perfect for Makar Sankranti festival.

    I have Received top quality, fresh and organic Kashmiri almonds, walnuts and saffron from Kashmir Online Store and they are just amazing. I have made this halwa with their walnuts and saffron.

    Few More Indian Sweets on the blog:

    • Chukandar Ka Halwa
    • Chena Murki
    • Makkan Peda
    • Apple Mawa Kheer
    • Double Ka Meetha
    • Carrot Coconut Milk Halwa
    • Ranga Alur Puli Pithe
    • Chocolate Peda
    • Kesar Peda
    • Mohanthal

    How to Make Walnut Halwa Recipe Video Below:

    Print Recipe
    5 from 1 vote

    Akhrot Ka Halwa Recipe - Indian Walnut Fudge / Halwa Recipe

    How to Make Walnut Halwa recipe with step by step photos and video. A very delicious and rich Indian winter dessert recipe.
    Prep Time5 minutes mins
    Cook Time15 minutes mins
    Total Time20 minutes mins
    Course: Dessert
    Cuisine: Indian
    Keyword: Indian Sweets
    Servings: 12 Pieces
    Calories: 146kcal
    Author: Hari Chandana Ponnaluri

    Ingredients

    • 1 cup Walnuts
    • ½ cup Milk
    • ½ cup Sugar
    • 4 tablespoon Ghee
    • A pinch of Saffron

    Instructions

    • Grind walnuts into a coarse powder and keep it aside.
    • Combine milk, sugar and saffron in a vessel and let the sugar dissolves completely. Bring it a boil and remove from the flame.
    • cover the milk and keep it aside until use. 
    • Heat 3 tablespoons of ghee in a pan. Add the ground walnuts to it.
    • Keep stirring and roast over a low flame for about 7-8 minutes or until golden brown.
    • When it is roasted, pour prepared hot saffron milk and combine together well. 
    • Mix very well for 2 minutes.
    • Add remaining 1 tablespoon of ghee to it. 
    • Keep stirring and cook for 3-4 minutes or till it leaves the sides of the pan.
    • Remove from the pan and let it cool down a bit.
    • This halwa will thicken as it cools. 
    • Transfer it a plate or tray and level it.
    • Decorate with silver warq and cut into pieces.

    Video

    Youtube video

    Notes

    Don't cook the halwa for too long to prevent hard halwa.
    You can also add a little bit of cardamom powder if you want.
     

    Nutrition

    Calories: 146kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 13mg | Sodium: 4mg | Potassium: 56mg | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 15IU | Vitamin C: 0.2mg | Calcium: 21mg | Iron: 0.3mg

    Akhrot Ka Halwa Recipe with step by step photos:

    • Measure one cup of walnuts and place them in a small mixie jar or blender jar.

    • Blend them to make a coarse powder and set aside.

    • Take milk, sugar and saffron in a vessel or saucepan and let the sugar dissolves completely.

    • Bring it to a boil and turn off the flame. Cover the vessel with a lid and keep it aside.

    • Heat ghee in a wide and heavy bottomed pan.
    • Add the coarsely ground walnuts to the melted ghee and mix.

    • Keep stirring and roast over a low flame until it is golden brown. It will take 7-8 minutes. Do not burn the nuts.

    • When the nuts are roasted well and aromatic, pour the prepared hot saffron milk to it and mix it well together.

    • Keep stirring over a medium flame for 2 minutes. Then add the remaining ghee to it and mix.

    • Continue stirring for another 3-4 minutes or until it leaves the sides of the pan.
    • Turn off the flame and let it cool down a bit.
    • Remember, this walnut halwa continue to thicken as it cools. Refer the above image for the consistency.

    • Transfer the halwa to a plate or tray to cut into pieces or serve as it is.

    • Decorate it with silver warq. This is optional.

    • Serve and enjoy! 🙂

     

     

    Oats Ven Pongal Recipe - Healthy Indian Oats Recipes

    December 27, 2018

    Oats Ven Pongal Recipe - Healthy and delicious Indian style oats breakfast recipe with step by step photos and video.

    Indian style oats breakfast with spices

    Ven Pongal / Khara Pongal / Katte Pongali is a traditional South Indian savory breakfast. Traditionally it is made with rice and lentils and seasoned with ghee roasted spices. I have replaced the rice with oats to make this dish healthier.

    This Oats Pongal is one of the easy and delicious Indian oats recipes and perfect for breakfast or dinner. Can be made in 25-30 minutes.

    South Indian style oats pongal garnished with spices

    Few More Healthy Breakfast Recipes on the blog:

    • Quinoa Upma
    • Instant Ragi Idli
    • Mixed Fruit Yogurt Parfait
    • Lemon Quinoa
    • Chura Matar
    • Carrot Paratha
    • Methi Paratha
    • Quinoa Chocolate Pudding
    • Peanut Butter Apple Banana Sandwich

    How to Make Oats Ven Pongal Recipe Video Below:

    Print Recipe

    Oats Ven Pongal Recipe

    Oats Pongal / Oats Ven Pongal / Oats Khara Pongal is a healthy & quick Indian style savory breakfast made with oats and lentils and seasoned with spices. 
    Cook Time25 minutes mins
    Total Time25 minutes mins
    Course: Breakfast, Main Course
    Cuisine: North Indian, South Indian
    Keyword: Indian Oats Recipes, Oats Breakfast Recipes
    Servings: 4
    Calories: 276kcal
    Author: Hari Chandana Ponnaluri

    Ingredients

    • 1 cup Instant Oats
    • ½ cup Moong Dal
    • 3 tablespoon Ghee
    • 2 teaspoon Black Peppercorns lightly crushed
    • 2 teaspoon Ginger finely chopped
    • 2 teaspoon Cumin Seeds
    • ⅛ teaspoon Hing
    • 1 Green Chilli
    • Salt to taste
    • 20 Cashews
    • 1 Sprig Curry Leaves

    Instructions

    • Pressure cook the rinsed moong dal with 1.5 cups of water for 3 whistles.
    • Lightly mash the cooked dal and keep it aside.
    • Dry roast the quick oats over a low-medium flame for about 5 minutes.
    • Pour 1 cup of water to the roasted oats and keep mixing and cook for 3 - 4 minutes or until oats are cooked.
    • Now add the cooked moong dal and salt and mix until well combined.
    • Turn off the flame.
    • Heat ghee in a pan for seasoning. Add cumin seeds, cashews, finely chopped ginger and finely chopped green chillies and roast until golden brown color.
    • Then add curry leaves, crushed pepper and hing and saute for a couple of seconds.
    • Turn off the flame and pour this seasoning over the cooked oats mixture.  
    • Mix well and serve hot with chutney or sambar.

    Video

    Youtube video

    Notes

    Add more water while cooking the oats to get the thin consistency.
    Adjust the pepper and green chillies according to your taste.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 276kcal | Carbohydrates: 32g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Cholesterol: 28mg | Sodium: 44mg | Potassium: 442mg | Fiber: 7g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 45IU | Vitamin C: 2.6mg | Calcium: 63mg | Iron: 3.6mg

    Oats Pongal Recipe with Step by Step Photos:

    cooking moong dal to make oats pongal

    • Wash and drain ½ cup of moong dal and transfer to a pressure cooker. Add 1.5 cups of water to it and cook for 3 whistles. You can also cook the moong dal on the stovetop.

    cooked and mashed moong dal for oats ven pongal

    • Lightly mash the cooked dal and keep it aside until use.

    roasting quick oats to prepare oats ven pongal

    • Take a wide pan, add and roast the oats for about 5 minutes over a low-medium flame. Do not burn them.

    cooking quick oats to prepare oats khara pongal

    • Add one cup of water the roasted oats and mix well.
    • Keep stirring and cook for 3-4 minutes or until oats are cooked completely.

    cooking instant oats to make an Indian savory breakfast dish

    • Oats should be cooked completely. See the above image for consistency.

    combining cooked oats and cooked lentils to make a healthy Indian breakfast

    • Now add the cooked moong dal and required salt to it and combine well.

    Making South Indian Oats Pongal

    • Turn off the flame and keep it aside.

    making south indian khara pongal

    • Take ghee in a small pan or tadka pan for seasoning.
    • Add cumin seeds, cashew nuts, finely chopped ginger and finely chopped green chilli and saute until they are golden brown.

    roasting spices in ghee to make healthy oats breakfast

    • When they are browned, add curry leaves, crushed pepper and hing to it and saute for a couple of minutes.
    • Remove from the heat.

    • Pour the prepared seasoning over the cooked oats pongal and mix everything well.

    A bowl of healthy Indian oats pongal topped with ghee roasted spices

    • Serve hot with chutney or sambar.

    Eggless Fruitcake Cookies

    December 24, 2018

    Christmas Fruitcake Cookies - Rich, fruity, nutty, and delicious eggless cookies for Christmas!

    What are fruitcake cookies?

    Fruitcake cookie is a rich, delicious, and flavorful festive cookie that can be made in no time. These Christmas cookies are super easy to make and perfect for the holiday season.

    I have used almonds, cashews, and pistachios to make these cookies. You can use any of your favorite nuts.

    This is an eggless cookie recipe, I have used some milk in the place eggs to make egg-free cookies.

    Ingredients & Substitutions:

    Plain flour / all-purpose flour

    Unsalted Butter - If you are using salted butter, skip adding salt.

    Dates - Chop the dates into small pieces and add them to the dough.

    Mixed Nuts - I have used almonds, cashews and pistachios in this recipe. But you can use any of your favorite cookies such as pecans, walnuts and hazelnuts.

    Mixed Fruits - I have used tutti frutti here, candied cherries and candied pineapples are perfect for this recipe. Feel free to use whatever candied fruit you have.

    Raisins or dried cranberries can also be used.

    Milk - You will need a little milk in this recipe.

    Sugar - Either white or brown sugar would work well.

    Vanilla

    How long can you store the unbaked cookie dough?

    You can store it in the refrigerator for 4-5 days or freeze it for about 2 months.

    Can you freeze the baked cookies?

    Yes, they freeze extremely well. You can freeze them for up to 2 months.

    Serving suggestions:

    They are perfect to make during Christmas and can make a great edible gift.

    They are great when served with coffee or tea.

    Step by step instuctions:

    • Preheat oven to 180 degrees C.  Line the baking tray with parchment paper and set aside.
    • Take the butter and sugar in a mixing bowl and whisk until creamy, light and fluffy.
    • Add vanilla essence and salt to the butter mixture and whisk until well combined.
    • Add the flour and baking soda to the butter mixture and knead it to make a soft dough.
    • Sprinkle 1-2 tablespoons of milk if needed.
    • Add finely chopped dates, mixed tutti frutti and chopped nuts to it. I have used almonds, cashews and pistachios here.
    • Combine well.
    • Divide the prepared cookie dough into 12 equal portions and place them on the prepared baking tin or tray. These cookies won't spread much. So flatten them a bit if needed.
    • Bake them in the preheated oven at 180 degrees C for about 18-22 minutes or until edges are lightly browned.
    • Let them cool completely and store in an airtight container.

    Few more eggless Christmas recipes:

    • Chocolate Chip Crescent Cookies
    • Nutella Sandwich Cookies
    • Eggless Kulkuls
    • Orange Tutti Frutti Cake
    • Snowball Cookies
    • Whole Wheat Coconut Cookies
    • Eggless Dates Cake
    • Moon Biscuits

    Eggless fruitcake Christmas cookies recipe below:

    Recipe slightly adapted from Taste of Home

    Print Recipe
    5 from 1 vote

    Eggless Fruitcake Cookies Recipe for Christmas

    Rich, fruity, nutty and delicious eggless cookies for Christmas.
    Prep Time10 minutes mins
    Cook Time25 minutes mins
    Total Time35 minutes mins
    Course: Baking, Cookies, Dessert, Snack
    Cuisine: International
    Keyword: Christmas Cookies, Eggless Baking, Eggless Cookies
    Servings: 12 Cookies
    Author: Hari Chandana Ponnaluri

    Ingredients

    • ¼ cup Unsalted Butter
    • 3 tablespoon Sugar
    • ½ cup Plain Flour
    • ¼ cup Chopped Dates
    • 6 tablespoon Mixed Nuts
    • ¼ cup Tutti Frutti / Mixed Candied Fruit
    • 1 tablespoon Milk
    • ¼ teaspoon Vanilla Essence
    • ⅛ teaspoon Baking Soda
    • A pinch of Salt

    Instructions

    • Preheat oven to 180 degrees C. Line the baking tray with parchment paper and set aside.
    • Combine the butter and sugar in a mixing bowl and whisk until light and fluffy.
    • Add vanilla essence and sal to it and combine well.
    • Add flour and baking soda to the butter mixture. Knead it to a soft dough. Sprinkle little milk if needed.
    • Add the nuts, dates and tutti frutti and mix everything well until combined.
    • Divide the dough into 12 equal size balls and place them on the prepared baking tray.
    • These cookies won't spread much. Flatten them a little if you want.
    • Bake them in the preheated oven at 180 degrees C for about 18-22 minutes or until edges are lightly browned.
    • Remove from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes.
    • Remove the cookies from the tray and let them cool completely on a wire rack.
    • Store them in an airtight container.

    Chocolate Strawberry Banana Smoothie Recipe {Video}

    October 22, 2018

    Chocolate Strawberry Banana Smoothie is a simple, healthy and delicious smoothie that can be made with easily available ingredients. I have used frozen banana in this recipe but you can use fresh banana and ice cubes to serve immediately.

    Few More Beverage Recipes on the blog:

    • Mango Gulkand Lassi
    • Avocado Lassi
    • Banana Almond Pistachio Milkshake
    • Mango Mastani
    • Chocolate Banana Peanut Butter Milkshake
    • Oats Pomegranate Smoothie
    • Banana Lassi
    • Shikanji

    How to Make Chocolate Strawberry Banana Smoothie Recipe:

    Print Recipe
    5 from 2 votes

    Chocolate Strawberry Banana Smoothie Recipe

    How to Make Chocolate Strawberry Banana Smoothie Recipe with step by step photos and video.
    Prep Time5 minutes mins
    Total Time5 minutes mins
    Course: Beverage, Breakfast
    Cuisine: American, International
    Servings: 2
    Calories: 185kcal
    Author: Hari Chandana Ponnaluri

    Ingredients

    • ½ cup Yogurt
    • 1 Frozen Banana (approx. ½ cup)
    • ½ cup Strawberries
    • 2 tablespoon Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
    • ½ teaspoon Vanilla Essence
    • 1 tablespoon Honey (or as needed)
    • ½ cup Milk

    Instructions

    • In a blender, combine the yogurt, frozen banana, chopped strawberries, cocoa powder, vanilla, honey and milk.
    • Blend everything until smooth.
    • Pour into glasses and serve immediately. 

    Video

    Youtube video

    Nutrition

    Calories: 185kcal | Carbohydrates: 33g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 14mg | Sodium: 57mg | Potassium: 524mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 23g | Vitamin A: 195IU | Vitamin C: 26.3mg | Calcium: 156mg | Iron: 1mg

    Chocolate Banana Strawberry Smoothie Recipe with Photos:

    • Wash and chop the strawberries and set aside.
    • Take a blender jar and add yogurt, banana, strawberries, unsweetened cocoa powder, vanilla and honey to it.

    • Pour ½ cup of milk to it and blend until smooth and frothy.

    • Add more milk if you want to adjust the consistency.
    • Pour into glasses and serve immediately.

     

    Aval Kesari Recipe - Avalakki Kesari Bath Recipe - Poha Sheera Recipe {Video}

    September 1, 2018

    Aval Kesari or Avalakki Kesari Bath or Atukula Kesari is a South Indian style dessert made with beaten rice, sugar and ghee. This halwa is so quick to make and requires a very few ingredients. This can be served as a naivedyam during festivals such as Gokulashtami, Ganesh Chaturthi and Navratri. This can also be served as a dessert or sweet snack on any occasion.

    Few More Halwa Recipes on the blog:

    • Semiya Pineapple Kesari
    • Godhuma Rava Kesari
    • Orange Rava Kesari
    • Pineapple Kesari
    • Paal Rava Kesari
    • Beetroot Halwa
    • Carrot Coconut Milk Halwa

     

    Few Tips to Make the Best Aval Kesari:

    • Do not use thin poha or paper poha to make this poha halwa.
    • Make sure you grind the roasted poha to get the rava like texture. Do not powder them.
    • Make sure the poha or aval is fully cooked before you add sugar to attain soft texture.
    • You can use saffron instead of food color to enhance the flavor. Soak a pinch of saffron in warm water and use.

    Atukula Halwa or Poha Sheera Recipe with Video below:

    Print Recipe

    Aval Kesari Recipe - Poha Halwa Recipe

    A quick and easy South Indian halwa recipe made with poha, sugar and ghee. Krishnashtami special recipe
    Prep Time5 minutes mins
    Cook Time20 minutes mins
    Total Time25 minutes mins
    Course: Dessert
    Cuisine: South Indian
    Keyword: authentic, Indian Food, naivedyam
    Servings: 2
    Author: Hari Chandana Ponnaluri

    Ingredients

    • ½ cup Poha
    • ½ cup Sugar
    • 4 tablespoon Ghee
    • ½ teaspoon Cardamom Powder
    • 8 Cashewnuts
    • 8 Raisins

    Instructions

    • Dry roast the poha over a low-medium flame for 3-4 minutes and let it cool completely.
    • Grind the roasted beaten rice into a coarse powder.
    • Heat two tablespoons of ghee in a pan and add the cashews. Fry until light golden color.
    • Add raisins to it and continue roasting till golden brown color. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
    • In the same ghee, add the ground beaten rice / poha and roast for 2 - 3 minutes.
    • Pour 1 cup of hot water to the roasted poha and mix well without any lumps.
    • Add 2 tablespoons of ghee to it and mix well.
    • Keep stirring and cook until the mixture is thick and poha is completely cooked.
    • Add sugar, cardamom powder and food color or saffron to and mix well.
    • Keep stirring and cook for about 5-8 minutes or till you get the halwa consistency.
    • When the mixture thickens and leaves the sides of the pan, add the fried cashews and raisins and combine well.
    • Remove from the flame and serve warm or cold.

    Video

    Youtube video

    How to Make Avalakki Kesari Bath Recipe with Step by Step Photos:

    • Take poha in a pan and keep roasting for 3-4 minutes. No need to change the color.
    • Turn off the flame and let it cool completely before grinding.

    • Transfer the cooled poha to a blender or mixie jar and grind it into a coarse powder. It should be similar to rava.
    • Keep this aside.

    • Heat two tablespoons of ghee in a pan and roast cashews to light brown color.
    • When the cashews are lightly browned, add raisins and continue frying till golden brown color.
    • Remove them from the ghee and set aside.

    • In the same pan, add the coarsely ground poha.

    • Roast the poha in ghee for about 2-3 minutes.

    • When the poha is roasted, pour one cup of hot water to it and mix everything well without any lumps.

    • Add the remaining two tablespoons of ghee to it and mix.

    • Keep stirring and cook until the poha is completely cooked and thick.

    • When the poha is fully cooked and soft, add sugar, cardamom powder and food color or saffron to it. Mix well.

    • Keep stirring and cook for 5-8 minutes until the mixture is thick and leaves the sides of the pan.

    • When the halwa is thick, add the fried cashews and raisins. Mix everything well.
    • Turn off the flame and serve warm or cold.

    Desiccated Coconut Chutney Recipe - South Indian Coconut Chutney without Fresh Coconut

    August 8, 2018

    Coconut Chutney is a classic South Indian side dish for breakfast dishes. Traditionally, we make coconut chutney with fresh coconut and some other spices or vegetables. But we can also make this traditional chutney without fresh coconut. I have replaced the fresh coconut with desiccated coconut and used warm water to grind. This desiccated coconut chutney is a great alternative when you don't have fresh coconut. If you are looking for more chutney recipes then check the below recipes.

    Few More South Indian Chutney Recipes on the blog:

    • Hotel Style Coconut Chutney
    • Carrot Peanut Chutney
    • Tomato Coconut Chutney
    • Peanut Coriander Chutney
    • Peanut Mint Chutney
    • Onion Tomato Coriander Chutney
    • Peanut Tomato Chutney
    • Coconut Curry Leaves Chutney

    How to Make Desiccated Coconut Chutney Recipe Video Below:

    Print Recipe
    5 from 4 votes

    Desiccated Coconut Chutney Recipe

    Easy South Indian Coconut Chutney without fresh coconut. 
    Prep Time5 minutes mins
    Cook Time5 minutes mins
    Total Time10 minutes mins
    Course: Side Dish
    Cuisine: South Indian
    Keyword: Indian breakfast, South Indian Food
    Servings: 2
    Calories: 172kcal
    Author: Hari Chandana Ponnaluri

    Ingredients

    • ½ cup Desiccated Coconut
    • 2 tablespoon Roasted Bengal Gram
    • 1 Green Chillie
    • 1 Dried Red Chilli
    • ½ inch Ginger
    • 1 sprig Curry Leaves
    • 1 teaspoon Oil
    • ¼ teaspoon Mustard Seeds
    • ¼ teaspoon Urad Dal
    • A Pinch of Hing
    • ¼ teaspoon Tamarind
    • Warm Water to grind
    • Salt to taste

    Instructions

    • Add desiccated coconut, roasted bengal gram, tamarind, green chilli, ginger, salt and warm water to a mixie or blender.
    • Blend until everything is smooth. Adjust the water to get the desired consistency.
    • Transfer the chutney to a serving bowl.
    • Heat oil in a small pan for seasoning.
    • Add mustard seeds and urad dal to the oil and saute until they are golden brown color.
    • Then add the curry leaves, dried red chilli and hing and saute for a few seconds.
    • Pour the seasoned ingredients over the prepared chutney and mix well.
    • Serve with idli, dosa, pongal or upma.

    Video

    Nutrition

    Calories: 172kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Sodium: 84mg | Potassium: 115mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 40IU | Vitamin C: 22.7mg | Calcium: 6mg | Iron: 0.7mg

    Yogurt Tutti Frutti Popsicles Recipe {Video}

    July 27, 2018

    Yogurt Tutti Frutti Popsicle Recipe is a simple and delicious frozen dessert made with thick yogurt and tutti frutti. I have used honey to sweeten the popsicles and make it healthier. You can also replace honey with regular sugar.

    These Vanilla Yogurt Tutti Frutti Popsicles are delicious, flavorful, rich and super easy to make. You can replace the yogurt with greek yogurt to make it more creamy.

    Few More Dessert Recipes on the blog:

    • Mango Lassi Popsicles
    • Beetroot Halwa
    • Chocolate Fruit Custard
    • Makkan Peda
    • Fruit Yogurt Parfait
    • Apple Mawa Kheer
    • Quinoa Chocolate Pudding

    How to Make Yogurt Tutti Frutti Popsicles Recipe Video:

    Print Recipe

    Yogurt Tutti Frutti Popsicles Recipe

    How to make homemade popsicles with yogurt, honey and tutti frutti.
    Prep Time10 minutes mins
    Total Time10 minutes mins
    Servings: 5
    Calories: 56kcal
    Author: Hari Chandana Ponnaluri

    Ingredients

    • 1 cup Thick Yogurt
    • 2 tablespoon Honey
    • ½ teaspoon Vanilla Essence
    • 3 - 4 tablespoon Tutti Frutti

    Instructions

    • Combine the thick yogurt, vanilla essence and honey in a mixing bowl.
    • Whisk until smooth and creamy.
    • Add tutti frutti to the yogurt mixture and combine.
    • Fill the popsicle molds with this prepared yogurt mixture and freeze overnight or until set.
    • To remove the popsicles from the mold, run the water on the outside of the molds for some time until the ends are loose.
    • Serve them immediately.

    Video

    Youtube video

    Notes

    Use thick and fresh yogurt only for better texture and taste.
    You can replace the honey with sugar or any of your favorite sweetener.
    Adjust the honey according to your taste.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 56kcal | Carbohydrates: 9g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 6mg | Sodium: 22mg | Potassium: 75mg | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 50IU | Vitamin C: 0.2mg | Calcium: 59mg

    Mohabbat Ka Sharbat Recipe - Delhi Style Rooh Afza Milk with Watermelon

    July 19, 2018

    a glass of delhi mohabbat ka sharbat garnished with diced watermelon

    Mohabbat Ka Sharbat or Pyaar Mohabbat Ka Sharbat is a famous, refreshing and delicious summer drink from Delhi. This is a 3 ingredient beverage and can be made in no time. If you don't like rooh afza, you can replace it with rose syrup.

    Few More Beverage Recipes on the blog:

    • Nungu Rose Milk
    • Mango Gulkand Lassi
    • Avocado Sweet Lassi
    • Mango Mastani
    • Watermelon Rooh Afza Sharbat
    • Shikanji
    • Banana Lassi
    • Kesar Lassi

    How to Make Mohabbat Ka Sharbat Recipe Video Below:

    Print Recipe

    Mohabbat Ka Sharbat - Delhi Pyaar Mohabbat Sharbat Recipe

    How to Make Mohabbat Ka Sharbat Recipe with full video. Refreshing and delicious beverage from Delhi.
    Prep Time10 minutes mins
    Total Time10 minutes mins
    Course: Beverage
    Cuisine: Indian
    Servings: 4
    Author: Hari Chandana Ponnaluri

    Ingredients

    • 2 cups Milk
    • 1 cup Finely Diced Watermelon
    • 4 tablespoon Rooh Afza
    • Ice Cubes as needed

    Instructions

    • De-seed the watermelon and chop into very small pieces.
    • Combine ice cubes, rooh afza syrup and milk in a mixing bowl and mix until well combined.
    • Add the diced watermelon to the milk and mix well.
    • Pour this into glasses and garnish with watermelon pieces.
    • Serve immediately.

    Video

    Youtube video

    Notes

    Ajust the rooh afza or rose syrup as per your taste.
    To increase the sweetness, add more rooh afza or sugar.

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    I’m Hari Chandana Ponnaluri, the creator, recipe developer, and photographer of Blend with Spices, a food blog where I share flavorful, approachable, and authentic vegetarian recipes from India and beyond..

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