• Garlicky Field Beans Rice

    November 7, 2022peppercook

      This rice dish – garlicky field beans and coconut rice- from my Mom’s old 1952 cookbook, is perfect for evening meal. Flavoured with onions, coconut, chilies, garlic (not browned) and cumin, it’s unusual and filling. Served with yoghurt or kadhi (tempered yoghurt), and a side of mango pickle, its perfect for a weekday meal…

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  • Fragrant Pineapple Rice

    November 7, 2022peppercook

      I had started posting my Mom’s recipes from what is now termed “Mom’s Golden Recipe Book.” It’s actually a notebook from her college days when she had taken home science classes at the age of 16. It’s fun because the terms are so outdated and lots of ingredients or steps are missing in recipes.…

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  • Kerala-inspired Chicken with Coconut

    July 15, 2021peppercook

      A delicious, fragrant chicken peppered with aromatic South Indian spices and browned notes of roasted coconut. Easy to make, and impressive to serve, this is a must-try for lunch or dinner. Ingredients:  2 medium-sized chicken breast halves (300gm), cut into 1-1½” cubes ¾ teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon turmeric Click here to buy our favourite…

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  • Prawns in Tamarind Coconut Curry

    June 23, 2021peppercook

      Cooking doesn’t get any easier. A simple, Goa-inspired prawn curry flavoured with garlic, onions and coriander. Prawns are easy and quick to make, and always impress guests. This curry, cooked with tamarind and coconut milk, is ready in a jiffy. Light, not too spicy, tart and creamy, it’s lovely for brunch or dinner! Ingredients:…

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  • Goan-Inspired Eggplant with Vinegar

    June 1, 2021peppercook

      A simple, yet delicious Indian eggplant recipe with Goan roots. This mildly spiced makes a great vegan lunch or dinner dish with rice. The cubes of eggplant readily soak up a spicy tomato paste marinade and soften, making them an ideal vegetable for any kind of Indian bread, or a topping on crusty bread!…

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  • Mangalorean Chicken with Coconut

    May 14, 2021peppercook

      Roasted coconut, roasted coriander, and roasted chilies are the triad that give this Mangalorean-inspired chicken its delicious smoky flavour. Simple and easy, this tropical dish is great for an Indian -themed brunch or dinner. Ingredients: 3 chicken breast halves (250g), cut into 1.5” cubes salt – ¾ teaspoon or to taste ⅓ cup coconut,…

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  • Indian Cauliflower with Five Spices (Panch Phoran)

    May 7, 2021peppercook

      An easy and tasty Bengali-inspired cauliflower that gets its flavour from the five unique spices and their aromas that make Panch Phoran. You don’t need a lot of this 5-mixed-spice to enhance the lovely taste of cauliflower! These motley spices when added together create a super-seasoning punch that gets further leveraged by the mustard…

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  • Long Beans with Coconut

    April 29, 2021peppercook

      I’m trying to add more greens to #hotnspicyhusband’s diet and mine as well. Whenever I write a recipe, I always try to make it easy so my adult children can make it too.  This is a typical Kerala Thoran – or a dry spiced vegetable made with a paste of coconut, chilies, and cumin.…

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  • Minty Greek Tzatziki

    April 23, 2021peppercook

      A creamy, Greek version of the Indian raita, tzatziki is the perfect summer accompaniment to falafel and pita. Mint, pepper and garlic give this creamy side or sauce a great punch! Ingredients: 1 cucumber, peeled ½ teaspoon salt 4-6 cloves garlic, minced finely 1½ cup sour cream (if using plain or greek yoghurt, hang…

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  • Garlicky Green Rice

    February 18, 2021peppercook

      A healthy green addition to lunch or dinner, which is no effort at all! This rice is gently flavoured with garlic greens and spinach, and is a great way to get the family to eat more vegetable! Ingredients: ½ cup short-grain white rice click here to buy the rice we use 2 cups spinach (about…

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  • Green Pea Hummus

    February 1, 2021peppercook

    A delicious healthy yet easy green pea based dip – an alternative to making hummus with chickpeas, which are so much more work! Also serves as a nice sauce for roasted vegetables when thinned! Ingredients: 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen) 2 tablespoons sesame seeds click here to buy the quality sesame seeds  A…

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  • Spicy Korean Chicken Wings

    December 1, 2020peppercook

      These spicy, addictive chicken wings are made with my favourite Korean ingredient, Gochujang red chili paste. Seared without oil, then cooked in beer and topped with sesame seeds, these are a hit as a starter at any gathering! Ingredients: 500g chicken wings, wingettes, and drumettes only (with skin) 3 cloves garlic, minced ½ tablespoon…

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  • Quick Stir-Fried Indian Chicken

    November 28, 2020peppercook

      If you’re new to Indian food, this recipe of Quick Stir-Fry Indian Chicken is super-easy. Most of the flavor comes from cumin and turmeric and the rest from the vegetables; and you don’t have to wait for the water to dry! Ingredients: 300g chicken breast, about three halves of chicken breast ½ teaspoon salt…

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  • Mom’s Recipe # 12 – Vegetable Samosas

    November 3, 2020peppercook

      Simple yet delicious Indian potato and pea samosas!  Samosas might be time-consuming to make, but the end product is always worth the effort. They really aren’t that difficult to make, and they freeze really well, so try them out!  The trick is in making a fragrant, spicy filling and a stiff pastry dough. The…

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  • Easy Asian Pan Fried Chicken

    September 22, 2020peppercook

      With four children, one in college, and three feeding themselves full-time, I have realised there is definitely a need for easy, quick Asian recipes. And while the kids want to eat familiar food, they definitely don’t want the labour of familiar food! So I’ve gone back to the reason I started my blog –…

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  • Mexican Vegetable Rice

    August 26, 2020peppercook

      This flavourful, spicy Mexican vegetable rice is loaded with fresh veggies, an easy way to incorporate them into a delicious meal! This is a great one-pot dish to eat as-is, or you can wrap up the rice in a burrito. Ingredients: 1 cup uncooked white rice 1 onion, diced 4 cloves garlic, minced ½…

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  • Bamboo and Water Chestnut Salad

    July 17, 2020peppercook

      A visually enticing, multi-textured Asian salad, with unusual, robust and tantalizing flavours – it will be a definite hit with your dinner guests! Great for brunch, lunch or dinner. Ingredients: brined bamboo shoots, about 200g, sliced Click here to buy 8 shallots, sliced thinly lengthwise 3 cloves garlic, sliced in rounds 2 dry red…

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  • Quick Mexican Corn Casserole

    July 4, 2020peppercook

      This one-bowl  Mexican casserole is full of vegetables, and hardly takes 10 minutes to whip up – just grate the cheese directly into the baking dish! And it tastes even better the next day! This recipe is an old family favourite, something my Mom baked every weekend when we were children.  Perfectly easy for…

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  • Spicy Fried Coconut Prawns

    June 30, 2020peppercook

      These delicious fried prawns, marinated in pineapple juice with crunchy coconut crust make an impressive tropical starter or main course recipe! Ingredients: 12 large prawns, cleaned and deveined 100ml pineapple juice  2 tablespoons lemon or lime juice (optional) ½ teaspoon turmeric ½ teaspoon red chili, ground 4 garlic cloves, chopped or pounded 1 2-3”…

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  • Italian Style Garlicky Prawns

    June 16, 2020peppercook

      This Italian style garlicky, buttery prawns cooked in a cherry tomato sauce are a family favourite that helped us survive the lockdown! Quick and easy, they have a sauce that needs to be mopped up with some crusty fresh bread.  Leftovers from this recipe make a great breakfast – prawns on toast topped with…

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  • Mom’s Recipe # 15 – Chicken Shami Kebab

    June 12, 2020peppercook

      These are super easy kebabs – made with chicken breast, spices, garlic, ginger and onions (the whole North Indian shebang!) They are tender and delicious, and easy enough for even a novice cook! Perfect as a starter for guests at dinner. Ingredients: 250g boneless chicken breast halves  (about 2-3pieces) ¼ cup chana dal, about…

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  • Peanut Butter Chicken

    June 10, 2020peppercook

      This is a great recipe for a novice cook or even a pro one! This peanut butter chicken is packed with flavour from peanut butter, chiles, and sesame oil. It is easy and quick to make and is ideal for college cooking or young professionals who want to make a simple, tasty meal. Delicious…

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  • Goa-Inspired Prawn Curry

    June 5, 2020peppercook

      I love cooking seafood because it’s easy, quick, and absorbs so many favours. I had lots of fun last year creating this recipe and collaborating with the team from Cambay Tiger to shoot this video  (not to mention that the prawns were plump and delicious!) The red chili paste in these prawns is inspired…

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  • Mushrooms in Yoghurt Cream with Dill

    June 3, 2020peppercook

      These mushrooms in yoghurt are quick and easy to make and are a wonderful filling for pita bread with falafel, or in a sandwich.  This dish also works as a dip, but is yummy enough just to eat as is! Dill and mint add tremendous flavour to the mushrooms, and I find I can…

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  • Sri Lankan Inspired – Sweet Potato Curry

    May 27, 2020peppercook

    One of my favourite vegetables is the humble sweet potato – which tastes the best in this Srilankan-inspired sweet potato curry.  Key flavours in this curry come from cinnamon and coconut milk.  Srilankan cinnamon is of course the world’s best, and those fragile rolls of cinnamon have a far more subtle flavour than the rough,…

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  • Mediterranean Chicken with Garbanzo Beans

    May 19, 2020peppercook

      During the COVID-19 lockdowns across the world, every Mom wants to make a “one-dish-wonder.”  Food that is flavourful, easy, and tastes great, with a few dishes to wash as possible! With four grown children at home, this hi-protein nourishing chicken stew is really popular with my family.  It is ideal for lunch or dinner…

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  • Spinach Rice with Truffle Butter

    May 15, 2020peppercook

    When we all want to be gluten-free, this is my family’s go-to rice dish.  A rice dish with basic ingredients and one that is the show stopper – truffle butter!  Since all the ingredients are available, I have been making my spinach rice with truffle butter during the lockdown as well!  Easy, quick, and delicious, it is tasty…

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  • Mom’s Recipe #1 – Cheese Puffs

    May 13, 2020peppercook

      These are my favourite childhood cheese puffs and they’re super easy to make! My friends who popped by from school loved them!  Mom would whip them up in just a few minutes and we would eat them with Delmonte ketchup. And that’s what my kids did today when these hit the table! Looking for…

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  • Mom’s Recipe # 4 – Potato and Coconut Kachories

    May 6, 2020peppercook

      Stuck at home during the COVID19 crisis, I’ve been trying out a lot of my Mom’s recipes.  This is the perfect situation in which to try the more time-consuming ones, as, on some mornings, the day just stretches out timelessly. With the whole family at home, enticing aromas emanating from the kitchen keep everyone’s…

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  • Sweet Rice with Saffron and Nuts ( Zardah Pulao)

    March 4, 2020peppercook

      The word “zarda” is Persian for yellow, and this yellow rice gets its colour both from saffron as well as food colouring. Fragrant with the aroma of saffron, cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom carried through by the buttery ghee, and rich with almonds and pistachios, this is an easy traditional favourite! One of the simplest…

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  • Spicy Chicken with Maple

    March 2, 2020peppercook

      This spicy maple chicken is by far one of the super-easiest recipes, plus yummy!   I like the unusual combination of cumin, chilies, and thyme which complement the roasted “brown’ notes of maple syrup. I’m sure this chicken will taste even better on a charcoal grill! It is easy enough for college going students and young…

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  • Delicious Chindian Peanut Chicken

    February 11, 2020peppercook

      A delicious favourite in our house, quick and healthy, this chicken is half-Chinese in its nature and half-Indian; that’s where you get Chindian!  Black bean sauce forms its base, but the chilies, black pepper, and fresh coriander are definitely what makes it yum!  Perfect for kids when served on a tortilla or rice pancake!…

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  • Buckwheat Khichadi

    January 20, 2020peppercook

    This buckwheat khichadi is a savoury porridge, akin a pulao, made with the gluten-free groats of buckwheat, and is delicious. Flavoured with chilies, cumin, potatoes, peanuts, coconut as well as other spices, it’s a one-dish wonder for lunch or dinner when served with fresh yoghurt. Ingredients: ½ cup buckwheat groats (whole kuttu) Buy my favourite buckwheat now…

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  • Corn and Caper Quesadilla

    April 12, 2019thepeppercook

      This Corn and Caper Quesadilla recipe is a delicious vegetarian after-school snack or dinner. Tortillas filled with corn, olives, capers, and chilies, paired up with melty cheese makes a perfect summer meal. Ingredients: ½ can corn (about 60g or 3/8th cup) 150g cheese (a processed cheese like Brittania is fine) ½ tablespoon capers 3…

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  • Mexican Oyster Mushrooms

    February 27, 2019thepeppercook

      These fresh oyster mushrooms, sliced and cooked in a barbecue-flavoured Mexican sauce, taste great and have a nice chewy texture. A delicious vegan recipe for weeknight tacos – vegetarian carnitas! Ingredients: 250g oyster mushroom 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 onion, finely chopped ½ teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon Mexican chili, ground ½ cup water ½…

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  • Shrimp Rougaille Stew

    February 1, 2019thepeppercook

      A Mauritius Creole dish with a rich, spicy tomato base flavour with ginger, garlic, celery, and thyme. A perfect combination of African, French, and Indian influences. Ingredients: 1 medium onion, chopped fine 1” piece of fresh root ginger, peeled and roughly chopped (about 1 tablespoon) 4 cloves garlic, chopped fine (about 1.5 tablespoons) ¼…

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  • A Healthy French Pizza Tart

    January 26, 2019thepeppercook

      This pizza tart has a buttery, whole wheat crust loaded with the goodness of fresh vegetables and mozzarella cheese. It is a one-dish meal, and a recipe easy enough for a weekend dinner! Ingredients: For poolish/starter: 1 teaspoon sugar ½ cup warm water (40-45 degrees Celsius) ½ cup whole wheat flour or regular flour…

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  • Mom’s Recipe #3 – Rice with Fried Potatoes (Taheri)

    January 18, 2019thepeppercook

      Potato Taheri is a turmeric flavoured aromatic rice dish to which spiced fried potatoes are added.  It is not quite a pulao – in a Taheri, cooked vegetables are added to spiced, cooked rice, so the vegetables stay crisp (since they don’t get boiled with the rice.)  Either way, it’s simple and yummy! Ingredients:…

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  • Greek-Inspired Lima Beans

    January 16, 2019thepeppercook

      This delicious and healthy dish of lima beans is stewed with garlic, onions, tomatoes, capers and caper leaves, and flavoured with thyme and parsley, is based on the Greek caper giachni. Regardless, whether you have caper leaves or not, my vegan lima bean recipe below will help you share some of these favours of…

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  • Mom’s Carrot, Cauliflower, and Turnip Pickle

    January 11, 2019thepeppercook

      Sweet, tangy, and of course hot and spicy thanks to chilies and garam masala – no winter would be complete without the making of the ubiquitous Punjabi cauliflower, carrot and turnip pickle! It is the perfect accompaniment to a hot, fresh parantha for breakfast. Try this simplified, easy recipe! Ingredients: 500g carrots, cut into…

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  • Kerala Pumpkin, Pineapple and Banana Curry

    January 9, 2019thepeppercook

      Chef Benny’s sweet, sour and spicy pumpkin, banana, and pineapple khichadi (curry) is an easy Kerala recipe – a curry of pumpkin, fruit, coconut, yogurt, and spices. Sweet, sour, salty, and spicy, this is the perfect side for a grilled piece of fish or a nice teriyaki chicken breast. It is also satisfying with…

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  • Caramelized Garlic-Chili Lotus Stem and Moong Bean Noodles

    January 4, 2019thepeppercook

    If you haven’t eaten lotus stem – and I am always surprised, having grown up in South East Asia where they are commonly found, by how many people haven’t – it is similar in taste to the crunchy, raw water chestnut. Slightly bland, crisp, with a fibrous texture and the lack of any dominating flavour,…

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  • Candied Ginger Cookies

    December 17, 2018thepeppercook

      Ginger snaps – from a tall can Mom brought home from the supermarket – were always a favourite of mine growing up. These spicy ginger cookies- made with both fresh and candied ginger- are a more mature version of my childhood favourite! Try this easy recipe for the holidays and all year round as…

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  • Eggplant Rings on Mint Yoghurt

    December 16, 2018thepeppercook

      A quick recipe of mildly spiced eggplant on garlic and mint yoghurt base, ideal as a dinner side or a substitute for a salad. Perfect for Christmas or any other celebratory dinner! Ingredients: For eggplant : 1 large eggplant, about 500g ½ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon cumin ½ teaspoon red chili, ground 1 egg,…

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  • Mom’s Recipe #13 – Chicken Kofta Curry

    October 3, 2018thepeppercook

      A super easy and quick, flavourful recipe of Indian chicken kofta or meatballs in a spicy yoghurt based curry. Perfect for a gathering or party! Ingredients: For Kofta: minced chicken, 500g 1 onion, chopped or grated 4 cloves garlic, grated 1” ginger, grated 1 green chili, finely chopped ½ teaspoon salt Click here to…

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  • Easy Japanese Chicken

    June 28, 2018thepeppercook

      Made with gluten-free Worcestershire sauce instead of soy sauce, this super-easy recipe is quick and yummy – ideal for one of those evenings you don’t want a complicated dinner! Ingredients: 3 boneless chicken breast halves (about 280g) ½ teaspoon cornflour 4-6 garlic cloves, finely chopped 1 onion, sliced 1 bell pepper, diced into ½”…

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  • Raw Carrot Bliss Balls

    June 26, 2018thepeppercook

      A no-cook recipe for delicious and very more-ish bliss balls made of raw carrots, fresh coconut, and dates. Perfect for a school lunch box or after-dinner snack, with no effort at all! Ingredients: 1 cup grated carrots 1 cup fresh shredded coconut 6 dates soaked in water for a half-hour (about 70g) ½ teaspoon…

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  • Mom’s Recipe # 18 – Cauliflower and Potatoes

    May 21, 2018thepeppercook

      Crispy, spicy cauliflower with nicely browned potatoes – gobi aloo – is a North Indian favourite. Use this quick, easy recipe to impress everyone at home! Ingredients: Half a large cauliflower, cut into florets, about 250g 2 small potatoes, about 125g ½ teaspoon turmeric 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon fenugreek seeds 2-3 whole red…

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  • Mom’s Recipe #27 – Lavang Latikas (Indian Sweets)

    April 23, 2018thepeppercook

      A delicious North Indian sweet stuffed with coconut and raisins and made on celebratory holidays. Ingredients: 1 cup flour 1 tablespoon ghee 9 tablespoons water –divided 6 tablespoons coconut, lightly roasted 2 tablespoons khus khus (poppy seeds), lightly roasted 50g khoya (dried Indian milk product) 1 tablespoon raisins, chopped ½ cup plus ¾ tablespoons…

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  • Kutchi Farali Potato Curry

    March 28, 2018thepeppercook

      A delicious potato curry made on days that Indians fast and do not eat cereals, nor onion or garlic. A simple recipe, it is a favourite in our house even on days that no one is fasting! Perfect with puris or rice for a Sunday lunch! Looking for an easy Indian “curry”?  Here’s one!…

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  • Mom’s Recipe # 26 – Gajar Halwa (Carrot Halwa)

    March 18, 2018thepeppercook

      An easy recipe for a traditional Indian carrot-based dessert – a favourite across North Indian households. Ingredients: ½ kg carrots (preferably red carrots) 1 black cardamom, powdered 3 tablespoons almonds 3 tablespoons pistachios 100g khoya 150g sugar (about ¾ cup) 12-15 raisins (yellow) 6-8 strands saffron 3 tablespoons milk 3 green whole cardamom, powdered…

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  • Strapatsada – Greek Eggs with Baby Tomatoes

    March 16, 2018thepeppercook

    Delicious and easy traditional Greek scrambled eggs with juicy baby tomatoes, feta cheese, peppers, and fresh oregano, which make an ideal Sunday brunch dish for both family and friends. My personal favourite! Ingredients: 4 eggs 1 small onion or 2 shallots, chopped fine 1 cup baby tomatoes, about 150g ½ teaspoon sugar ¼ cup water…

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  • Mom’s Recipe # 2 – Basic Moong Dal

    March 13, 2018thepeppercook

      An easy, healthy recipe for a basic staple of North Indian meals – yellow lentils flavoured with cumin and turmeric. Ingredients: 1/2 cup yellow moong dal (about 120g)  Click here to buy 5 cups water 1/2 teaspoon turmeric Click here to buy 1/2 teaspoon chili, ground Click here to buy 1 teaspoon ginger, sliced…

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  • Prawn Curry with Kokum and Raw Mango

    January 30, 2018thepeppercook

      A delicious and easy Kerala prawn curry, creamy with coconut yet balanced by the tang of tomatoes, raw mango, and kokum. A favourite recipe for both for the family and guests. Ingredients: 350g-400g / about 20 pieces medium-large prawns, cleaned and deveined (without shell) 1 small onion (about 3” diameter), sliced thinly 1” piece…

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  • Mom’s Easy Sweet Potatoes

    December 17, 2017thepeppercook

      A super-simple recipe of healthy sweet potatoes that can either be served as a side dish or a dessert. Ingredients: ½ kg sweet potatoes, scrubbed and cut into ½ cm slices (with the skin) ½ liter (2 cups) water 6-7 whole cloves Pinch of salt 3 tablespoons grated or powdered jaggery 2 teaspoons ghee…

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  • Burmese-Inspired Cabbage and Pickled Ginger Salad

    December 6, 2017thepeppercook

    A healthy recipe filled with the fresh flavours of both Chinese and purple cabbage, tossed with shallots, pink pickled ginger and roasted chickpeas, balanced by a simple dressing of lime, brown sugar and soya sauce. Ingredients: ½ small head Chinese cabbage, thinly sliced about 150g (about 2 cups) 1 small head purple cabbage, thinly sliced…

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  • Basic Potato Curry in Yoghurt

    September 30, 2017thepeppercook

      A delicious, healthy basic curry made with potatoes, yogurt and just four other ingredients. Need a quick dinner dish with Indian flavours and just one spice? Here it is! Ingredients: 3 medium potatoes, about 250-300 grams ½ cup yogurt Click here to buy 1 teaspoon salt 4 cloves garlic, minced 2 green chilies split…

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  • Easy Fresh Fenugreek Rice

    June 25, 2017thepeppercook

      With the fresh, green bitterness of fenugreek balanced by the nuttiness of roasted dals, chilies and coriander seed, and the fragrant aroma of basmati, Fenugreek Rice is a healthy meal in one needing accompaniments of only yoghurt, papad, and pickles. Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rice/ leftover rice 1 tablespoon urad dal (skinned black gram)…

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  • Dry Malabar Prawns

    June 20, 2017thepeppercook

      A quick, delicious Kerala recipe of juicy prawns fried until crispy in coconut oil, marinated in a fragrant blend of grated coconut, coriander leaves, cumin, Malabar peppercorns, and fiery red chilies, enhanced by tangy tamarind. Ingredients: 350g-400g / about 20 pieces medium-large prawns, cleaned deveined (without shell) a 1½ inch ball of tamarind pulp…

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  • Mango and Lentil Dip

    June 6, 2017thepeppercook

      An easy and delicious summer dip that combines the quick-cooking lentils with the fragrant flavour of fresh, ripe mangoes and Indian spices. Ingredients: ¼ cup split moong dal (yellow lentils) Click here to buy ¼ teaspoon turmeric ¼ teaspoon red chili, ground ½ teaspoon salt 1 garlic clove, finely chopped 2 tablespoons fresh coriander…

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  • Parsi Scrambled Eggs with Mango

    June 4, 2017thepeppercook

      Eggs are ubiquitous in Indian Parsi cuisine and used in a variety of innovative ways. This unique and delicious breakfast or brunch dish of spicy, soft scrambled eggs enhanced by sweet and fragrant ripe mangoes, is always a big hit! Ingredients: 4 eggs ½ teaspoon salt freshly ground black pepper, to taste ¼ teaspoon…

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  • Sweet and Spicy Watermelon Curry

    May 31, 2017thepeppercook

    This watermelon curry meets all my requirements of a good recipe! It’s easy, quick, beautiful, and delicious! It’s also a low-waste dish, as you can cook the tougher white inner rind of the watermelon as well. A sure hit at any dinner party! Ingredients: ½ a large watermelon (about 800g) 1 teaspoon nigella seeds (kalonji)…

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  • Simple Cumin Breakfast Peas

    May 31, 2017thepeppercook

      The perfect mildly spiced North Indian breakfast dish or afternoon snack with cumin and chili adding freshness to green peas. Ingredients: 200g green peas (fresh or frozen) ½ teaspoon cumin 2 tablespoons finely chopped onion 2 green chilies, slit ½ teaspoon salt 2 tablespoons water chopped coriander for garnish (optional) a squeeze of lime…

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  • Spicy Watermelon Gazpacho (Cold Soup)

    March 30, 2017thepeppercook

    A no-cook, refreshing cold watermelon soup, that is healthy and has just enough spice for a hot summer’s day meal. While gazpacho is a Spanish soup, the flavours in this recipe are Mexican. Ingredients: 3 cups seedless watermelon, diced (about 500-600g) about a third of small watermelon ½ a red bell pepper, diced ½ cucumber,…

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  • Sri Lankan Long Beans

    February 16, 2017thepeppercook

      Healthy, spicy long beans cooked in lemongrass, cinnamon, chilies, and coconut for a perfect vegan lunch or dinner. Ingredients: 250g long beans, cut into 2” pieces 1 tomato, cut into wedges 1 long green stem lemongrass ¼ cup water ½ teaspoon fenugreek seeds 2 pieces cinnamon stick 1 medium onion, sliced lengthwise 3 cloves…

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  • Spicy Pepper Chicken Meatballs

    January 17, 2017thepeppercook

      A super easy recipe mixed in a single bowl, of healthy, spicy meatballs that can be eaten either as a snack or in a favourite tomato sauce. Ingredients: 450g minced chicken 1 small onion (about 2” diameter), grated 6 cloves garlic, grated or pressed through a garlic press 4 tablespoons breadcrumbs 4 tablespoons parmesan…

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  • Fusion Patatas Bravas

    November 15, 2016thepeppercook

    Fusion Patatas Bravas is a spicy, tasty Spanish dish of potatoes, garlic, chilies, and tomatoes, Indianized in this recipe with the addition of cumin. Ingredients: 20 or so baby potatoes (about 400g) 8 cloves garlic, minced ½ an onion, minced 2-3 dry red chilies, broken in half ½ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon red chili, ground…

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  • Pumpkin in Spicy Mustard Yoghurt

    October 27, 2016thepeppercook

      Pungent mustard, chilies, and roasted coconut give this unique easy, healthy, vegetarian recipe an unusual but delicious combination of flavours. Ingredients: pumpkin cut into ½” dice, about 150g ¾ teaspoon salt – divided into 2 2 teaspoons grated ginger – divided into 2 1 cup plain, unflavoured yoghurt 2 tablespoons milk ½ teaspoon whole…

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  • Ripe Fig Curry

    October 25, 2016thepeppercook

      A delectable North Indian vegetarian recipe for a fruity, healthy curry made with ripe figs, and just a few spices. Ingredients: 6 large ripe figs, about 250g-300g a pinch of asafoetida click here to buy 1 cup water ½ an onion, sliced ¼ teaspoon nigella seed (kalonji) click here to buy ½ teaspoon ground…

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  • Spicy Roasted Molasses Chicken

    October 12, 2016thepeppercook

      A deliciously spicy barbecue chicken roasted in South Indian flavours combined with molasses. Ingredients: 2 pieces skinless breast halves (on the bone), about 500g 1 teaspoon salt Marinade: 3 tablespoons molasses ½ teaspoon white vinegar ½ teaspoon turmeric ½ teaspoon Kashmiri chili (or less!), ground ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 3 cloves garlic,…

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  • Kerala Spicy Mushrooms

    October 9, 2016thepeppercook

      A delicious vegetarian recipe for South Indian style mushrooms. Spicy, coconut-y with the licorice sweetness of fennel, and heat from green chilies, ground red chili, and black pepper, it has all the distinctive flavours of Kerala. Ingredients: 250g button mushrooms, cleaned and halved ¾ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon turmeric ½ teaspoon Kashmiri chili, ground ½…

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  • Kerala Masala Calamari

    October 8, 2016thepeppercook

      Masala Calamari is a favourite South Indian seafood recipe, loaded with flavour from fennel, coriander, and other spices. Once you’ve prepped, the calamari is quick to cook, and a popular starter for company! Ingredients: 500g squid, cleaned and cut into rings 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon turmeric ½ teaspoon Kashmiri chili, ground 3 cloves…

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  • Lotus Seeds in Yoghurt

    October 6, 2016thepeppercook

      A delightful, healthy side of spiced yoghurt with popped lotus seeds, also known as fox nuts or gorgon nuts. Ingredients: 1 cup popped lotus seeds (also known as fox nuts or gorgon nuts) Click here to buy fox nuts 1 cup milk 1½ cup plain or greek yogurt Click here to buy greek yogurt…

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  • Pineapple Coconut Curry

    October 2, 2016thepeppercook

      This simple, delicious, recipe for a tropical fruit curry can be created with just a few spices and coconut milk. Great with rice or perfect as a side with grilled chicken or meat. Ingredients: 250 grams of diced pineapple (about half a small ripe pineapple, peel cut and core into half-inch cubes. If using…

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  • Easy Masala Sausages

    October 1, 2016thepeppercook

      Masala Sausages is a Spicy and quick sticky sausage with bold Indian fusion flavours. Ingredients: 250g cocktail sausages Click here to buy 4 cloves garlic, minced ½ a small onion, finely chopped ½ a teaspoon garam masala Click here to buy ½ a teaspoon red chili, ground 2 tablespoons barbecue sauce 1 tablespoon ketchup…

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  • Sweet Corn and Red Pepper Soufflés (fat-free)

    September 30, 2016thepeppercook

    Healthy fat-free vegetable soufflés, perfect for a healthy Sunday brunch! Ingredients 1 450g tin of corn kernels (250g after draining) or equivalent boiled frozen or fresh corn kernels 2 large red peppers, roasted and peeled 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped 6 basil leaves ½ teaspoon harissa 4 large egg whites, or whites of 5 medium…

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  • Spicy Singapore Noodles

    September 29, 2016thepeppercook

      Spicy curry flavoured noodles – a total “ChIndian” (Chinese – Indian) cooking recipe, with chilies, garlic, and ginger. Ingredients: 100g thin egg noodles Click here to buy 2 teaspoons sesame oil –divided 1 egg pinch salt 4 cloves garlic, minced 1’ ginger, peeled and minced 1 green chili, chopped fine 6 baby corn, about…

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  • Crispy Lotus Root Pepper Salt

    September 28, 2016thepeppercook

      The perfect vegetarian dish – crispy lotus root with a spicy Szechuan salt seasoning and garlic and green onions topping. Ingredients: 4 medium-sized fresh lotus roots, peeled (about 400g) ½ teaspoon sesame oil 2 ½ tablespoons corn or safflower oil 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon red chili, ground 2 tablespoons rice, ground 4 cloves…

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  • Seychellois Creole Rice

    September 23, 2016thepeppercook

    A delicious international curry adapted from Chef Daniel Louis’ recipe from the Seychelles Islands that combines the sweetness of banana with the musky flavours of eggplant. Ingredients: ½ cup Basmati rice ½ small onion, chopped fine ½” piece ginger, chopped fine 2 cloves garlic, minced 4-5 pieces curry leaves ½ red bell pepper, chopped fine…

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  • Creole Prawn Curry

    September 21, 2016thepeppercook

      Creole Prawn Curry is a delicious and easy cooking Seychellois curry based on Chef Daniel Louis’ recipe. Ingredients: 250g (about 15 pieces large prawns) cleaned and deveined (without shell) ½ small eggplant, peeled and diced (about 80g) 1 teaspoon salt, divided 1 teaspoon turmeric 1 small onion (about 2” diameter), finely chopped 8-10 curry…

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  • Baby Potatoes with Peanuts

    September 15, 2016thepeppercook

      Gingery-peanuty, slightly coconut-flavoured baby potatoes, with protein from peanuts, make a great dinner addition. This slightly spicy, gently sweet, crunchy and delicious recipe will be loved even by children! Ingredients: 300g baby potatoes 1” ginger, cut roughly 1 small bunch green coriander, chopped, about 5 tablespoons 3 tablespoons water ½ teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon…

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  • Creole Papaya Salad

    September 13, 2016thepeppercook

      Make this easy, delicious Creole Papaya salad adapted from Seychelles Chef Daniel Louis’ recipe, in just a few minutes. Ingredients: ½ medium-sized raw papaya, peeled and grated (about 250g) 1 onion, sliced thinly 1 tomato, seeds removed thinly sliced ½ a red pepper (red capsicum), thinly sliced ½ a green pepper (green capsicum), thinly…

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  • Chicken and Peach Curry

    September 9, 2016thepeppercook

      Chicken and Peach Curry is a fragrant, savoury and sweet peach curry, ideal for a cold, wintery evening with friends! Ingredients: 2 halves of a boneless, skinless chicken breast (300-350 g), cut into 1½” cubes 3 peaches, skinned, stoned and cut into ¼ inch slices 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon turmeric 1/2 teaspoon Kashmiri…

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  • Banana in Yoghurt with Roasted Coconut (Raita)

    August 21, 2016thepeppercook

      A sweet and savoury tropical yogurt delicious with the flavours of banana and roasted coconut. A great side dish that goes well with any meal, and makes a great breakfast as well! Ingredients: 1 cup plain, unflavoured yogurt 2 ripe green bananas, about 200 grams 2 tablespoons milk ½ teaspoon rock salt or regular…

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  • Ripe Mango Pachadi

    August 12, 2016thepeppercook

      A sweet, spicy, tangy side dish or condiment made with mangoes and coconut. Ingredients: 2 medium-sized ripe mangoes, about 400g before cutting 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon turmeric ½ teaspoon red chili, ground ½ cup water, just enough to cover mangoes in saucepan or pot ½ cup fresh plain yogurt ¼ cup grated fresh…

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  • Beetroot Salad with Coconut and Peanuts

    August 7, 2016thepeppercook

      A quick and easy beetroot healthy salad recipe with tropical flavours. Ingredients: 3 red beets, about 400g 4 tablespoons fresh grated coconut 3 tablespoons chopped coriander/cilantro leaves 4 tablespoons roasted peanuts, slightly crushed ½ teaspoon salt or to taste Juice of 1 lime, or about 2 tablespoons 1 teaspoon sugar   Instructions:  Put whole,…

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  • Guava Curry

    August 6, 2016thepeppercook

    A spicy, fruity and aromatic curry made of guavas which is both quick and healthy. Ingredients: 4 large ripe guavas ripe, about 500g before cutting ½ teas poon cumin seed ½ teaspoon fennel seed Click here to buy ½ teaspoon nigella seed Click here to buy a pinch of asafoetida 1 teaspoon rock salt or…

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  • Creole Banana and Eggplant Curry

    July 30, 2016thepeppercook

      A delicious international curry dish adapted from Chef Daniel Louis’ recipe from the Seychelles, which combines the sweetness of banana with the smokey flavours of eggplant. Ingredients: 2 small green bananas, peeled and cut into 1/2” pieces (about 150g) 1 small eggplant, peeled and diced (about 150g) ½ inch piece of ginger, roughly chopped…

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  • Tomato and Peanut Soup with Dill (Oil Free)

    June 30, 2016thepeppercook

    A spicy middle eastern recipe of soup flavoured with dill and harissa. Ingredients: 6 medium-sized tomatoes, diced (about 500g) 1 carrot, diced (about 60g) 1 cup water 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon brown sugar ½ cup freshly roasted peanuts ½ teaspoon harissa (To learn how to make our home-made harissa click here) 3 tablespoons fresh…

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  • Quick Kerala Calamari (Squid)

    May 31, 2016thepeppercook

      An easy Kerala recipe that involves no cutting and chopping, just the addition of southern spices to curry leaves and coconut oil. Ingredients: 500g squid, cleaned and cut into rings 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon turmeric ½ teaspoon (or less!) red chilies, ground 8-10 curry leaves 1 whole green chili (optional) ½ teaspoon black…

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  • Simple Kerala Prawn Curry

    April 27, 2016thepeppercook

    An Indian lunch recipe for a quick, spicy curry with the delicious flavours of Kerala spices and coconut oil Ingredients: 250g / about 30 pieces medium prawns, cleaned and deveined ½ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon turmeric ¼ teaspoon chili, ground 1” piece of ginger, chopped 3 cloves garlic, roughly chopped 1 small onion (about 2”…

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  • Rice Noodles with Peanut Sauce

    April 26, 2016thepeppercook

      Deliciously healthy noodles with tofu, moong sprouts, and crushed peanuts, topped with a creamy peanut sauce. Ingredients: 150g flat rice noodles 1 tablespoon sesame oil ½ cup sprouted moong ½ a small cucumber, sliced lengthwise, then cut in half-circles ½ cup tofu, sliced into matchsticks 4 tablespoons coriander, chopped (cilantro) 4 tablespoons roasted peanuts,…

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  • Green Mango and Fresh Peas

    April 26, 2016thepeppercook

      Green peas with tangy raw mango and crunchy roasted lentils is a typical South Indian vegetarian recipe, perfect for breakfast or an anytime snack. Ingredients: 250g fresh peas or frozen peas (about 2 cups) 1 small raw mango, peeled and chopped fine (about 40g) ½ a green chili 1 teaspoon whole cumin ½ teaspoon…

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  • Punjabi Turnips

    April 26, 2016thepeppercook

      An easy cooking recipe which is sweet, homestyle turnips with the mild flavours of ginger and fresh coriander. Ingredients: 3 turnips, diced, about 400g 1 tablespoon grated ginger 4 tablespoons finely chopped onion (about 1 small onion) 2 green chilies, broken in half 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon turmeric ¼ teaspoon red chili, ground…

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  • Coconut Sambol

    April 26, 2016thepeppercook

      A Sri Lankan staple “chutney”  made of fresh coconut and chilies! A recipe for a delicious side with hopper, idlis, and everything else! Ingredients: 1.5 cups fresh grated coconut Juice of one lime 1 green chili, roughly chopped 1 tablespoon coriander, chopped 3 tablespoons onion, chopped 1 teaspoon Kashmiri chili, ground 1/2 teaspoon salt…

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  • Pumpkin and Black-Eyed Peas Coconut Curry

    April 26, 2016thepeppercook

    A delicious Kerala curry flavoured with both fresh shredded coconut and browned coconut. Ingredients: ½ cup black-eyed peas 4 cups water 2 cups diced pumpkin (about ½ a small orange pumpkin) 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon turmeric ¼ teaspoon red chili, ground ½ cup fresh grated coconut 1 small green chili 1 teaspoon cumin 3…

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  • Corn Salad with Coconut and Raw Mango

    March 11, 2016thepeppercook

    Corn & Coconut salad is an easy Indian and delicious salad recipe perfect for a summer afternoon brunch. Ingredients: 1 450g tin of corn kernels (250g after draining) or equivalent boiled frozen or fresh corn kernels Click here to buy 3 tablespoons grated coconut 3 tablespoons chopped raw mango 3 tablespoons chopped scallions 3 tablespoons…

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  • Cornflakes and Spice Encrusted Prawns

    March 7, 2016thepeppercook

      Delicious crunchy prawns coated in a spicy cornflakes mixture. Tempered with coconut oil flavoured with curry leaves and green chilies, they are crusty on the outside, and soft and juicy on the inside, fragrant with the roasted aromas of Kerala spices. Easy to make for a quick seafood starter or meal. Serve with a…

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  • Spicy Coconut and Corn Bake

    March 7, 2016thepeppercook

      A one-dish wonder Indian recipe, with a great combination of corn, coconut, and yogurt. Ingredients: ½ kg frozen corn kernels or two 250g tins of corn Click here to buy Corn Kernels 1 green chili, roughly chopped 1” piece fresh ginger, peeled and roughly chopped ½ cup grated coconut 8 plain tablespoons, unflavored yogurt…

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  • Garlicky Chili Cheese Potatoes

    March 7, 2016thepeppercook

      Indulgent spicy fried potatoes with butter and cheese, an easy recipe to eat anytime. Ingredients: 500g potatoes, peeled and cut into ½” dice 1 cup olive oil or other vegetable oil for frying Click here to buy Olive Oil 3 tablespoons butter (or more!) 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped ½ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon…

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  • Boiled Egg Akuri with Potatoes

    February 18, 2016thepeppercook

      I love eggs – they are easy, quick, and nutritious! Fortunately, my family loves eggs as well.  One of my faves is an “akuri” – a Parsi scrambled eggs with spices. This recipe is a take on azure using boiled eggs and potatoes.  While traditionally it is made with fried potato strings, I prefer…

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  • Curried Pumpkin

    February 18, 2016thepeppercook

    The sweetness of pumpkin when combined with some simple spices, flavoured with stems of coriander (cilantro), ginger and onions make for the perfect side to any vegetarian Indian meal. Ingredients: 2 cups diced pumpkin (about ½ a small orange pumpkin) ½ teaspoon cumin ½ teaspoon fenugreek (optional) 1 tablespoon grated ginger 3 tablespoons finely chopped…

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  • Raw Mango Rice

    February 8, 2016thepeppercook

      A bowl of flavourful, aromatic rice made of raw mangoes and peanuts, which is a south Indian vegetarian recipe. Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rice/ leftover rice 1 raw mango (about 150g), peeled and grated (about ¼ cup) 1 teaspoon mustard seeds ½ teaspoon fenugreek seeds (optional) 1 dried red chili, whole 4-5 curry leaves…

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  • Moong Sprout Salad with Sweet Tamarind Dressing

    February 8, 2016thepeppercook

      A tangy and healthy salad recipe based on Indian “chaat”, or street food, flavours. Ingredients: 1 cup moong bean sprouts (about 125 g) 1 tomato, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped ½ a small cucumber, finely chopped 1 small potato, boiled, peeled and finely chopped 1 small raw mango, peeled and finely chopped…

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  • Barley and Three Mushroom Salad

    February 8, 2016thepeppercook

      A delicious and healthy combination of barley and mushrooms makes for a popular and attractive salad for party guests. a healthy combination of barley and mushrooms that makes a popular and attractive party mushroom salad. Ingredients: ½ cup pearl barley 2 cups water 2-3 stems fresh herbs (thyme or rosemary) (optional) ½ teaspoon salt…

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  • Bengali Flavored Mustard Chicken

    January 27, 2016thepeppercook

    A pungent healthy chicken recipe from Bengal made with ground mustard seeds and green chilies. Quick, easy and a family favourite.   Ingredients: 2 halves of a boneless chicken breast (300-350 g) and cut into 1-1½ inch cubes 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon turmeric ¼ teaspoon chili, ground 2 tablespoons yellow mustard seeds 1 tablespoon…

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  • Fig Chili Jam

    January 14, 2016thepeppercook

    A deliciously spicy recipe made of fresh figs and red chilies. Ingredients: 500g of washed and dried fresh figs 1 fresh red chili pepper or 1 fresh Hungarian pepper, finely chopped 1 cup sugar ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste ¾ cup white vinegar Click here to buy 1 teaspoon paprika ½ teaspoon red chili,…

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  • Coconut Corn Curry

    January 4, 2016thepeppercook

      Coconut corn curry is a Western Indian recipe for spicy corn cooked in a coconut curry. Ingredients: 1 green chili, roughly chopped 4 cloves, garlic peeled one small bunch fresh coriander, chopped, or about 4 tablespoon ½ teaspoon ground cumin 250g shelled fresh corn kernels or frozen kernels, or one 260g corn tin drained…

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  • Easy Kerala Mango Curry

    January 4, 2016thepeppercook

      Kerala Mango Curry is a mildly spiced tropical curry which is made from ripe mangoes and coconut.  Sweet, sour, spicy, and hot, this simple curried fruit recipe is great with rice, and oh so soul-satisfying! Mangoes, coconuts, and chilies, how can you go wrong? Ingredients: 2 large or 4 small mangoes ripe, about 600g…

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  • Harrisa

    January 4, 2016thepeppercook

      A spicy condiment from the Middle East that adds flavour and heat to any dish you may add it to – needed in every international kitchen! Ingredients: 10-12 dried red chili peppers, (weight about 50g) 1 teaspoon whole coriander 1 teaspoon whole cumin 7 to 8 mint leaves 4 cloves garlic, minced 1 teaspoon…

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