Memories the Essence of Life ~ Best of 2008!

Chalte Chalte Mere Ye Geet Yaad Rakhna
Kabhi Alwida Na Kehna
Kabhi Alwida Na Kehna...

yes, biding good byes are such tearful thing! I am not a person who stands much on ceremonial good byes. Infact during such times in my life, I take a moment to pause to think back on what's come into my life and wonder how its going to be going forward.

The same time last year I did something very much the same! And this being the last post for this year, I thought I will again do something on the same lines!

December 31st always holds many wonderful moments for me. I remember all the years that went by and how we celebrated each one with such fun and merry. With parents, some years it was spent with colony friends and families, then some at home with parents hosting the parties. Then some with just us, cutting cakes at the strike of 12' O clock! Then after marriage, with hubby dear not so very keen on such traditions, I used to drop in parents home to wish them. All of those moments so nostalgic. I remember the Jan first always being hectic, with Amma cooking elaborate breakfasts for people dropping in to wish us. The phones never stop, the calling bell never rests! Amma usually gears up to cook for some 50 plus people visiting us till afternoon. It used to be so much fun. With parents relocating to a different place, we somehow missed this tradition.

This year too, its going to be a quite affair at home. Its going to be an in house celebrations with just our kids. I can't but think back on what's been this year with respect to blogging. Writing my blog has become an important part of my life. My family has come to accept it as part of me and they make room for it, which I highly appreciate, as this gives me an opportunity to express my thoughts and interact with so many people. I have got to know so many wonderful people through my blog. And when I get a mail from a reader, saying they learnt many things from my blog, I feel so very happy.

I was happy hosting so many wonderful events, because of which I have come to know many yummy blogs out there! When I announced Dosa Mela to celebrate my first year of blogging, I never realized I will venture into a series of Melas. Each one has been a new experience and I am still learning. That also prompted me to focus on specific topics apart from our everyday cooking. Thus Spice your Life came into existence. Right now I haven't been able to focus much on it as I wanted, but yes I will have to start focusing on it more.

Taking a stock of the recipes I posted this year, I found it hard to choose which one I liked more. I blogged about 270 recipes this year, most of them are our regular everyday dishes. But some which I experimented and made it a regular.

Since I wasn't able to pin point on one particular dish that was best, I just choose the best meals we had.

First on the list is from our Weekend Cooking featuring Jeera Pulao with Aloo Peas Makhani and Mutton in Gravy

Daal paratha with Kakdi Nu Raitu ~ Our Gujarati Meal and Vangi Bath

Of course, my 101 Dosa Varieties are surely my favorite one. I was elated when my Dosa recipe got featured in a Magazine.

I was able to participate in both the Recipe Marathon organized by DK . I have got such good friends though it that I am happy that they fill the gap of not having any such friends in person!

Though I am not a person who is keen on resolutions, I think having some goals makes us better. Last year I decided I should cook more from other blogs, but sadly my schedules never permitted me from trying out the many bookmarked recipes.

And of course, there is baking. My blog so sadly lacks them. So I should gear to bake some and experiment new dishes. I am planning to come up with a new list of Lunch Box recipes. Plus some new features like Menu planner and of course my mela series!

I would like to thank my family, my blogger friends and my readers for the support and motivation I get everyday, to continue in this work. If not for you guys out there, I would be sadly talking to myself!

As my darling Peddu says, the moment he sees me cutting a cake, "Ahappy Beeday tu you" let me take a toast and wish all my lovely readers a Great Year ahead!

Have a great day!

Seasonal Greetings from the Su family!

Manpasand Chicken!

Seasonal Greetings to all my dear readers!

Hope all of you have had a great vacation! Konda is at home and another week to go. She has done all possible things that I had planned for her. I got a big book of plain book and a box of crayons, she has exhausted all that she could think of. Finally she reminded me that I promised her to make dress for her dolls. So I took of the day to sit with her. More of that activity in my Spice Blog.

Then I was also going through some sentimental thoughts and updated my other blog with those thoughts. Check that out when you have time.

Coming to this chicken dish, well its one of those interesting things that you just experiment and of course mix and match the spices to come up with something that's really tasty. I used more than normal amount of poppy seeds and combined it with fennel seeds. The result was very tasty. Try this when you feel you got to make something with poppy seeds, which is what we add to most of our non veg dishes.

Ingredients Needed:

Chicken - 500 gms
Onions - 2 medium
Tomato- 2 medium
Ginger Garlic paste - 1 tsp
Chili Powder - 1 and 1/2 tsp
Coriander powder - 1 tsp
Garam Masala - 1/2 tsp
Fennel Seed powder - 1/2 tsp
Poppy Seeds - 2 tsp
Fresh Coconut paste - 2 tsp
Cashew Paste - 1 tsp
Coriander leaves some for garnish

Fresh Lime for garnish optional


Method to prepare:

Wash the chicken and let it drain.

Heat a pressure cooker with oil. Saute the onions till they are brown. Then add the ginger garlic paste. Fry till its well cooked.

Then add the drained chicken pieces and chopped tomatoes. Cook on high flame, add turmeric powder and salt. Then add the chili powder and coriander powder. Simmer for 5 mins.

Add the garam masala, fennel powder, poppy seed powder, cashew powder. Saute well and add 1 cup of water. Cover with lid and pressure cook till chicken is done.

Remove the lid, cook on high while you keep stirring, then add the coconut paste. Combine everything well.

Finally add the finely chopped coriander leaves. If you prefer squeeze in the lime juice.

Enjoy and Have a great weekend!

Khichdi ~ Comfort Food!

The computer was out of form for a week and worse part was, the pictures were not on my laptop. Not that I cooked anything new during this time. But then I generally felt so disconnected that I literally wanted to shout out loud. I made frequent visits to my brother's home to check the updates and then rush back home. Surprisingly since the time Konda started having her holidays, the kids seem to be sleeping late. I really wonder if the little ones also know its their sister's vacation. Normally in a typical day, the boys are up by 6.30, making it tough for me to do anything else. But the last two days, they are getting up only at 7.30, which actually gives me time to catch my breath!

I know its been a while since I updated on my boys progress. Peddu can actually sing the alphabet song. While Chinnu dodges on that. Chinnu seems to be little slow on getting the words out. But no hurry, he can catch later, I feel. He has that adorable way of saying "Amma", I simply love hearing him say that. Yeah he is making up for all the time I felt for Konda never calling me that! Previously when it was their bedtime, we had to do so many things to actually get them to room, these days when I say I am going to tell Stories, they happily come running in. Then from then on it becomes even tough as I have to keep railing stories after stories. Guess its time I update myself with some stuff!

While I haven't been cooking much fancy offlate, I did prepare this Khichdi. Kichdi always holds very fond memories of childhood. This is actually the first time that I am making it at home. The first time I ate this wonderful dish, was when we had gone on a picnic with Dad's colleague and his new bride. Yeah I had already wrote about them. I can still remember that awesome taste that Aunty had rendered to that dish. Amma never made kichidi at home, somehow we never got around making it. The other times I remember eating this has been from our office cook, who makes it extremely well too.The Khichdi that I made with Bansi Rava was my first attempt. I wanted to make with the regular rava along with all the veggies. Since it was to be a dinner for hubby dear and Athamma, I thought I would just make for them. I couldn't but taste and yes it came out well. Its a comfort food at the best. And a dish that can be done in a jiffy!

Ingredients Needed:

Rava/ Semolina - 1 cup
Chopped Vegetables - 1 cup (Beans, Carrot, Potatoes, Peas)
Onion - 1 big
Tomato - 1 small
Green chillies - 3 long
Turmeric 1/4 tsp
Cloves - 2
Cinnamon - 2"
Curry leaves few
Coriander leaves few
Salt to taste
Ghee - 3 tsp
Oil - 2 tsp
Water - 3 cups

Tempering

Mustard Seeds, Urad Dal, Channa Dal - 1 tsp
Cashew nuts - as per wish

Method to prepare:

Heat a pan with 1 tsp of ghee, roast the rava till it starts getting well roasted. Remove and keep aside.

Chop all vegetables and keep aside.

Heat the same pan with the oil. Temper with Mustard Seeds, Urad Dal, Channa Dal and Cashew Nuts along with curry leaves. Then add the cloves and cinnamon.

After a minute, add the onions and sauté till they are pink. The onions should not be browned for upma or Khichdi. Then add all the chopped vegetables along with tomatoes, chopped coriander. You need not get the tomatoes mushy.

Fry well, simmer for 5 mins with a lid covered. This way the vegetables will get soft. Then add the water, salt. Bring to boil in high. Then simmer again with a lid covered for 5 mins. If you want your kichidi to be gooey, you can add 3 cups, else you can do away with 2 and half cups of water.

Once the water comes to boiling, slowly add the roasted rava, making sure it doesn't get lumps.Mix well, sprinkle the remaining ghee over it and cook it covered for 5 mins.

Total time taken for making this is just under 20 mins. Makes a great dish for times when you are in a need to cook something good with loads of veggies in it!

Don't forget to check out the Gooseberry Rice at my Spice your Life Blog!

A Sweet to Celebrate!

Well it happened finally! I was eagerly waiting for the article to release since the time I was contacted. This happened sometime after the Dosa Mela. Joanne contacted me to ask if I would like to feature my recipe in The Indian American Magazine, I was elated!

She wrote back last week saying her article on "Deconstructing Dosa" is published in the Nov-Dec issue of The Indian American magazine. It features my Basic dosa recipe. Since the magazine is available only in print form, I was sad that I couldn't get a copy of that. But she sent in pictures of the article, a very well written on the love and beauty of Dosa. Thank you Joanne!

For crispy Dosa, you can use this proportion.

Konda saw me reading this article and asked why I was grinning at the monitor. I said Mummy's recipe is featured in a book Konda. She said Oh, show me. Then she read the complete sentence and then my name along with the blog name. Of course the credit goes to Amma, since its her recipe.

I thought I will share a new sweet dish that Athamma prepared for Karthigai Deepam. Though traditionally we make Pori Urundai, this year I couldn't as I never learnt it from Amma. And I wasn't up to calling up Amma for getting the recipe.

This payasam is a very different one, more like the Ada Pradhaman. This uses rolled out chapati strips that are cooked in the payasam. Tasted simply too good.

I was forced to take couple of days off as my system gave up on me. Hopefully will be back to regular blogging from coming week.

Ingredients Needed:

Chapati dough for 1 ball
Jaggary - 1/2 cup (or as per taste)
Wheat flour - 1 tbsp
Cardamom powder a pinch
Water - 1 cup
Roasted Nuts 1 tbsp

Method to prepare:

Melt the jaggary in a pan, remove scum if any. Then cooking for 5 mins.

Meanwhile, roll out the chapati ball into a disc of 1 inch size or as you do your regular chapati.

Cut long strips of 1 inch size, these will be of small diamond cookies. Heat a pan with water, once it starts boiling, add these chapati cookies. Simmer and let it get cooked for 5 mins.

Mix the wheat flour in a bowl with water to get a lump less batter. Slowly add this to the boiling chapati rolls.

Then after 10 mins, add the jaggary water. Cover and cook again for 10 mins or till the chapati is well cooked. Add the cardamon powder and mix well.

Finally garnish with roasted nuts.

The Mega Rice Mela Round up ~ Part 5!

Its my pleasure to present to you the final round of this wonderful Rice Mela. I would like to thank all my dear bloggers who have really done a great job of excelling themselves in trying to send me many entries. The previous round ups focused on individual entries and bloggers who have sent in entries within five entries. I thought I would get all those lovely ladies who have made me very happy by sending me so many for the mela!

I am very glad that all of you liked the round ups! Its been a great pleasure going through the recipes and getting to know the person through their posts. I am very sorry that I couldn't leave much beyond the thank you note at your blogs. But believe me, I read each and every entry.

I am giving the entries in no particular order!

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Rice Delights from Yasmeen!

First we have some delightful Rice dishes from Yasmeen! She has a beautiful blog named Health Nut, her pictures are great to look at and am sure her folks are very lucky to get to taste those yummy dishes she presents!

Yasmeen shares a treat to both soul and sole with her beautiful pictures of goodies along with gorgeous pictures of snow! I guess we can just have all her bowls of dishes she has sent in, watching all that lovely snow falling down on naked trees to create a serene sense in us.

The mango rice she has, sets the mood for a perfect luncheon!

Check out beautiful Fruit and Nut Saffron Brown Rice Pilaf. If you are in mood for preparing biryanis, then Yasmeen has a big list to offer. Be it with Fish or shrimp or lamb, you name them and she has it for you!

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Next set of yummy rice dishes comes from Pallavi

She calls her blog as All Thingz Yummy! Yeah all her posts look very yummy!

She brings in a variety of Rice dishes, that can come handy when you are in a hurry to fix a quick meal. Coming back late from office, Pallavi plucks few red and green tomatoes from her backyard to dish up an Easy Green Peas and Tomato Rice!

With lots of coriander leaves on hand, she thought she has more than enough to just use them for garnish, hence born a dish with its puree! The Coriander Rice. I am sure it was very aromatic.

Coming to her other dishes, Khichdi of course is a quick one you can make with lots of vegetables. This being a comfort food for many, finds its apt place in Pallavi's menu too! I am sure you will fall in love with muti coloured dishes and this one takes the lead in colouring the rice in all hues of Bell peppers.

While you at her place, I am you wouldn't want to miss her out tangy Gongura Tomato Rice or the Raw Mango Pulihora. And if you are a chicken fan, then don't miss out the Chicken Biryani! Finally last but not the least the famous Seasoned Yogurt Rice comes to soothe your taste buds!

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Shama Nags comes with her bunch of dishes.

Lets start with the breakfast shall we!

South Indians are fond of their Ven pongals. Why not, when you get a pepper flavored rice all hot for a breakfast, especially looking like Shama's, you wouldn't want to say no right!

When pongal is done, I am sure you would love to check out this delicious spicy dal keerai dosa!

Murukku any time of the day is my favorite, and looking at Shama's plate, sure makes me want to grab out!

Then we have an array of rice dishes making its way to the mela!

Capsicum sure spices the rice and what better way to eat capsicum than mixed and flovoured in a rice. This delicious rice variety is easy to make and quick to get done!

Dishes with coconut milk always turns out delicious. And especially when you add more vegetables to highlight the taste as Shama does with her Coconut milk Vegetable Rice, its bound to be very tasty!

Next one on the list is one that I can always relate to fond childhood memories and it is thenga sadam. It makes one helleva lunch box dish and seeing Shama's lovely picture, I can still imagine the taste!

I sure love garlic and if one can prepare an all together garlic rice, I am sure it tastes great! So Shama Garlic Rice, does sound interesting!

Then we have this healthy rice with pudina that Shama makes, I am sure the flavour of mint, added more spice to the tastebuds. Adding channa dal in rice sure sounds interesting and easy to make. And whats more its a good protein that you can give for your kids. So check Shama Nags version!

I only wish she completed the list by sending in a sweet!..:) While you are at her place, do check out her beautiful crafts! This is one talented lady!

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Next on the showcase comes from another buddy PJ from RM2!

PJ is all set to Seduce you...well I meant Your Tastebuds!

She blogs all the way from china and shares some very interesting facts, which make a good read!

She sends in couple of tiffins along with yummy rice dishes!

At times, when making a breakfast becomes a big task, this simple yet healthy dish comes to rescue. On top PJ says they simply love this when compared to the same old dish. Spiced Poha is the way to go!

Then comes this tangy Lemon sevai to seduce your tastebuds. Well thats what PJ says when she makes a sevai and all the varieties that can be possible with the base!

Then we have all the lovely rice dishes making their way!

A cookery show inspires PJ to cook up a new dish with Ridge gourd in rice. The picture looks very colourful, no doubt the taste will be fittingly so! While you are at her blog, please do have a look at the spicy Pepper flavored Rice. Not to miss out the colourful Capsicum Rice or the Carrot Rice.

Finally fusion creates a new dish and gets to be called Fusion Rice

Then we have two lovely curd based dishes because PJ loves curd so much. So much so that she makes a curd rice with poha too! That I must say is the first time I hearing but she says it turns out quick and yummy!

There are some, who wants a change always and some who never gets bored with the same dish everyday. And PJ belongs to the wonderful group of people who never gets bored of eating the same dish everyday. And her favorite being Curd Rice! Wow, the way she has decorated the plain curd rice, sure makes anyone to reach out!

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Next comes Vibaas who has some Delectable Vegetarian Recipes ...

Vibaas as she calls herself is a mother of 2 cute lil princes and she says they keep her on her toes. Well it doesn't look like that differed her from preparing such lovely treats!

Lets start with the Thattai shall we! For thats my very favorite snack. Vibaas sure rocks patting away such crispy ones, that her lil ones would've surely loved to munch on!

Then we have some very interesting dishes with poha, this tangy Lemon Sevai will surely make your day! Not to mention this Thakkali Aval .

This Puli Aval / Tamarind Poha is something thats been intriguing for a long time, will surely make it sometime soon.

Simple Veg. pulao is another interesting version from Vibaas, which her kids must've enjoyed!

And great looking plate of thakkali sadam or Tomato Rice is my fav too! Well if you always wanted to make Mor Kali like me, then this is the chance! Not sure what to do with leftover idlis? Then Idli Upma is the answer for you!

Finally we have an healthy version of Oatmeal Poha coming your way!

Thank you Vibaas for all your yummy treats!

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Divya Vikram is the next line bringing all Rice dishes for us! Mind you all Dil Se...

Divya Vikram, my friend from RM1, has always been a person who never disappoints me with her lovely entries. I got to know her better when she was part of the Recipe Marathon 1 and I know her to be very enthusiastic and lively. She looks barely out of college! But the dishes she dishes out at her blog are amazing!

I am listing alphabetically. I know she would have sent more but for the fact that she is on vacation!

The Carrot Rice she has sent, sets the thing on motion. She says its on experimental basis she tried it out. But it was a great hit at home. I know looking at the delicious picture, it was!

The Coriander rice next from her makes a perfect candidate for lunch box!

Corn Peas Cheese Pulao is her next invention! I am sure the corn and peas added great zing to the cheese!

Then we have this easy breezy pulao that gets done in minutes. The picture speaks more than what we can think!

The one pot meal makes a great dish for lunch box and so the Mushroom Peas Corn Pulao or Tomato Rice and the tofu added rice makes very interesting ones to know!

Finally we have the sweet rice made with Kalkandu! I love eating Kalkandu and getting to know that they make a rice with this was something I learnt after blogging. And Divya's looks so yummy!

Hop on her blog for many more interesting dishes!

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We have Vidhas's very Appetizing Recipes to the Mela!

Next comes Vidhas carrying a complete line of menu for everybody's needs. Starting from those delicious Murukkus, hopping on to an innovative dish with made with rice flour and Tapiaco. Had she not told me, I would never had guessed whats gone into making it!

Then we have all the interesting breakfast dishes lining up! Starting with the Appams. When its cooked so well, who can say no to it! Well if Appams are famous from one state, these Kuzhi Paniyaram are from Tamil Nadu. Kuzhi Paniyaram I love by ton, and if its prepared and presented so nicely, how can I not say yes!

Sevais, I am sure many are fond of. Needless to say her tempting Sevais with Vegetable or with Tomato, are must have anytime!

Don't be in a hurry to leave, for now comes all her variety rices in parade! From a tempting Vangi Bath to Shahi Vegetable Pulao, you have a wide choice to make. There is always something extra special when the dish goes with a name Shahi.

I am sure you will also be glad to check out her version of Arisiyum Paruppum, followed by a Green Rice, accompanied by the Mushroom Rice, Kovakai Rice and Vegetable rice!

Well with all these spicy dishes, she will not want to miss treating you all with an over dose of sweets. Kozhukattais make an interesting dish to be eaten, especially when its soaked in milk.

And this lovely red Aval Kesari is what she made, when her lil one started pestering her for some sweets. I am sure you won't believe if this takes only abt 10 mins to get done! And if you are in a mood for carrot, then check out Rice Carrot Kheer or Manoharam.

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Next set of wonderful collection cooks from Divya with her Easy Recipes!.

She says her blog is for Easy recipes, but she does have some very classic complicated ones too! Maybe easy for her you know! I got to know more about her when she joined the RM2. She is one lively person posting non stop daily with her toddler sitting on her lap! That I must say is simply rocking! She has sent in almost all types of dishes one can make using Rice. I have categorized them together for easy reference!

First comes all the breakfast dishes!

As I said I can eat Appam anytime of the day, so I spent drolling at her picture for a while, remembering the last time I had. Its been a while, if I must confess. So these appams are a real virtual treat!

Next we see Divya taking up a challenge and comes with an innovative puttu using rice and bajra. Well any type of puttu, I simply love and she says though it tasted differently, I could see it was yum!...

Ghee Roast is perfect for any time of the day. And divya shares this with her secret of getting the perfect finish. I really ought to try it next time. For that perfect gold colour with a lovely dip into sambar, I am sure you won't want anything else, will you?

While you are still at the breakfast, do check out Instant idiyappam and Divya's version of Ven Pongal.

If there was an innovative curry, then this is it. She makes use of leftover rice and comes out with a different kofta in a malai base. I am sure it taste awesome. And this could be the answer for many with leftover bowls!

Divya knows just the right dish to make any Sunday special. Not just that, she says she makes this rice for most festivals and get together. No wonder she calls this Festive Biriyani!

Coconut Milk always a thing to impart when cooked with rice. With spices and rice flavour, it sure ensures to elevate your taste buds. Divya makes the same with veggies and spices for a feast!

Divya prepares this famous Hyderabadi biryani, which is a staple of the city. Its famed for its non veg variety, so Divya attempts to make a veg version with veggies and yet still made it look as appeasing!

Divya has had a field day with so many rice varieties. First came the brinji, then biriyani and finally this masala bath! I am sure her folks are happy that she ends up preparing so many delicious varieties! Do check on her Tomato Rice & the Coconut Milk rice.

Kara Bonda are a delicious snacks to have anytime, especially during tea time, they lighten the mood. So Divya gets into the mood of making some as everybody at home loves them. But she is worried on the shape, though I am sure it doesn't matter when the taste takes over!

Paal Paniyaram is a dish I always wanted to know how its made. So getting this entry from Divya was a sweet treat.

Then Divya presents her version of paal payasam which she learnt from a cook. She used condensed milk, no wonder it looks so creamy and delicious! With toppings of roasted nuts, I am sure with a small serving of this is enough to lure you to sleep!

Next innovative sweet dish called the Thengai paal Rings, is what she says is easy to prepare and this can grace any festival too! She uses rice flour along with coconut milk. Never heard of this combo but the picture sure tempts you to try!

Check out all her 22 interesting entries in one place!

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For a person who started blogging just 3 months back, 280+ is a heading spinning count! I really cannot imagine the patience and love this lovely lady seems to be having for blogging!

I am talking about none other than Priya Suresh of Easy N Tasty Recipes. All her posts are quick and simple, yet they leave you amazed at the variety she is able to come up! Think of an event, and she seems to be having a dozen tucked under her sleeves!

I came to know more about her when we become buddies for the RM2. Talk about an ingredient, as I told you she had one dish ready. I was really very excited getting so many, how many you want to ask? Well its 41 in total!

I thought I will work on them as she sends, but I wasn't able to keep up with her pace. So I thought I would put everything together and get you guys check them out yourself!!!

Starting the interesting Idlis she seems to be steaming away with a variety of stuffings and blended in! Be it an idli with Oats or the sprouted Moongdal or get more creative and preparing these lovely chicken stuffed in!

Those spongy dosas are a sure tempting ones! Finish it off with a sweet idli!

Well seeing all those delicious murukkus in one place didn't' do much on my diet! Each one more crispy than the other, I am sure her folks enjoyed munching on these munchers!

Talk about evening snacks and you won't be disappointed and you won't stop raving about these Rava Carrot Bondas or those savory discs that come to hunt you the Thattais!

I am sure with all these, Priya won't let you go without taking a look at her collection of sweet treats! The Thengapaal Kozhukattai is a sure hit any time and not to leave the innovative Carrot Poha Kheer

But this one takes the crown, a pudding with Paneer crowned by the pearly jewels.

Then comes a huge collection of rice dishes prepare with a variety of vegetables and masals. I am sure its never a dull day at her place with so many rice delights!

Cabbage Lemon Rice is an interesting blend of cabbage with lemon. If you never liked cabbage as such in rice, maybe the lemon adding will give you a zing!

Have you ever used carrots in so many innovative ways? Well check out Priya's healthy additions in so many ways!

Her blog is one place for all fried dishes with many twists and turns of vegetables. Be is Red Cabbage or the Snakegourd or with Zucchini.

Not to be left out with just veggies, she dishes out few non veg too, be it chicken or two prawn biryanis!

Phew, I am breathless counting Priya's interesting entries. I requested her to put all of them in one place for easy reference, you can check all the 41 entries here!

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Finally from me, most of the dosa varieties that I have blogged under 101 Dosa Variety are made with Rice.

The Idli Varieties are my favorite ones! Well these Rice Recipes come to our rescue too!

The one pot meals are always something that you can count on to dish on a hurry and most of time they are done in a jiffy!

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With this the Rice mela comes to an end. Please take time and go through each and every dish, Lot of efforts have gone in, in bringing all these lovely entries in one place, so I will be happy if those efforts are fruitful and this is really used to full extent! I really hope I haven't missed out any of entry, but do let me know!

Thanks to all bloggers who have sent in their entries, its been a great pleasure going through each and every entry for the Mela!

Have a great week ahead!

The Mega Rice Mela Round up ~ Part 4!

I had planned to post all the editions one after the other. But hubby dear said that one may not be able to view the entire post in a single day. Maybe it was a good thing. I am yet to cook anything new. Athamma was seriously complaining that we hadn't posted anything new. I was finding it very sweet. When I was uploading these pictures, both Peddu and Chinnu wanted to be seated on my lap. I actually wanted to shut down, seeing them coming. But they actually behaved well and were excited seeing all those pictures. Peddu kept saying "bhuva bhuva" meaning food in telugu. They kept seeing the picture and never tampered with the keyword. I was happy that I was able to complete the finally upload of today's pictures even with both of them sitting on my lap!

Coming to today's edition, its going to feature all the Veg Biryanis and Non Veg Biryanis, ending with a sweet note! I am sure you are going to be exciting with all the puddings and sweets that one can do with Rice!

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This Quick n Easy Veg Biryani, comes from CurryLeaf, who says she loves experimenting with different types of biryani. This is much simpler because it doesn't require grinding or cooking separately! One pot meal is the mantra!

For Deepthi, it is the Vegetable Biryani that gives ultimate comfort. She fancies one pot meals and this one tops the list. Well she already has two other exciting one pot dishes, so be on alert to check them out!

As a showcase of her cooking skills, Divya Kudua prepares this Vegetable Biryani to woe her hubby dear. Previous to marriage, she carefully avoided the topic on her cooking skills. I would think she needed, after all her blog is a display of her culinary pro, that she has become!

If there is anybody, who can give a royal treatment for a Non- Veg dish, by making it vegetarian, then its DK. She has chosen the delicious and much famed Hyderabadi Biryani and made it completely vegetarian but nevertheless tempting. I am sure Mr. DK enjoyed it to the last morsel!

This tempting Vegetable Briyani is from Kamala, whose son is very fond of it. Well I am too if it looks as delicious as the picture!

Appreciating good food, motivates the cook to cook more. Well Kamalika finds herself in this spot very often and yes maybe we should thank her colleagues for getting her dish out such delicious ones! This Vegetable Briyani, is no less!

Kavya says thinking about a biryani, the first thing that comes to mind is the Hyderabad Dum biryani. Why not, the process involved though being lengthy brings in a great flavour to the cooked rice and what's more she makes a vegetarian biryani, which I am sure many are interested in!

Shazani biryani belongs to that class of elite rice dishes and Sindhura, being a vegetarian was apprehensive in tasting this delicious dish. To her surprise, it tasted out of the world and she elated when she finally laid her hands on this recipe, needless to say, it came out very tasty! She is a budding student and this adventure sounds too good!

Hari Bhari Biryani is another one of those interesting dishes that's sprung entirely from the innovation steak! Sunanda makes this green chutney and she adds a twist to the biryani she makes by adding that chutney. And voila you have this green green meal in a jiffy!

Supriya being the queen of her kitchen, decides to use more of masur dal in rice to bring out a great looking biryani. Not just that, she adds more vegetables to make this very healthy!

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Then we have the famed Chicken Biryani making its way.

This delicious looking Chicken biryani is from Aparna, who says this is her version. Well from the different variety we have had, everything looks unique!

Served with love, anything will taste heavenly but Aquadaze's innovative berry pulao, takes the cake when it comes to introducing innovation to an one pot meal. Aquadaze takes us down a memory track with her, where she is seen drooling over a bowl of berry pulao in a famed restaurant. Since a trip there is not imminent, she recreates the magic!

Arundhuti makes this rich and tempting chicken pulao. She says when you are not in a mood to prepare the elaborate biryani, this comes to rescue! Its my pleasure getting to know Arundhuti's blog through this mela.

Jaya shares with us the events of one usually serene afternoon, which suddenly showed signs of becoming a very memorable one. She was in for a peek into the action drama or the theatre life and with it she shares her lovely chicken biryani. I was left wondering if I have continue reading the drama unfolding or go on drooling over the picture!

Jyothsna does a revisiting of sorts. Long absence from her precious space, kept her happy enjoying the food than struggling to click them away. But I guess one can't stay away for long. She does a come back with a classic dose of Chicken Biryani!

JZ sure knows how to captivate her reader's attention. Not just with her lovely pictures, but with most sought out dishes like Chicken Biriyanis. She says she is very fond of biryanis as they are a good shot to prepare while entertaining. Am sure her guests will be drooling most of the time, if she is dishing out dishes like these!

For most people cooking in microwave is an adventure. But Kayal does make it even better by cooking a chicken biryani in it! Her mom makes an yummy one when its for a crowd pleasing, so no wonder it came out great for a small group too!

When Meeta sent me a note saying her post for the mela is on its way, I jumped in excited. I knew I was in for a treat! But never expected something this fabulous. The South African Biryani that she finally made was downright gorgeous. Meeta is known to come up with great recipes and gorgeous pictures, so how can I ever say no for another feast to eyes!

Neema made this chicken biryani for the first time when she was newly married and was very happy that it was an instant hit with her hubby loved it. What else do we need than this kind of appreciation!

Rina comes with one innovative dish that makes use of the left over tandoori masala. She quickly adds veggies and other masalas, to prepare one tempting Fried rice!

Shifa makes this delicious Malabar Chicken Biriyani for her BIL. She says biryani is the most famous dish in Malabar. Be it any occasion, it can't be complete without this delicious treat!

Suma Rajesh sets out to put me on test. I am only glad that she liked my recipe! Thanks Suma for trying out my biryani and in the process sending me your version of the same!

If you are a fan of Hyderabadi Chicken Biryani, then Usha Rao's recipe, is for you. The beautiful picture speaks volumes of the taste hidden in picture and am sure this will get tried many times!

From Varsha, we have two lovely looking biryanis. Biryanis are for special days for Varsha. That's how her mom made and that's how she follows. This dish that she made for her hubby dear's birthday, made her happy that it came out well!

Varsha makes this delicious Chinese Chicken Fried Rice and opts to stay back home, rather than fight the snow for shopping. Well I guess having such a plate in front, makes up for any amount of shopping goodies!

Finally from me, another of Chicken Biryani!

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After Chicken, comes rice dishes in other interesting forms!

Roopa made this delicious looking Egg biryani for thanksgiving day. I never knew of egg getting cooked along with rice, it simply looks great!

Usha Rao was in for lot of work. Procrastination had its toil on her and she was forced to draft this dish for the mela. How sweet! But she feels the time it took her to just post this delicious biryani, that I am bookmarking, she could've prepared it from scratch!

For Ann, there can't be anything more passionating than Fish. So imagine her plight when she heard that they won't be available. This happened during her teenage and she can still remember her disappointment on hearing the news. But she was assured it wasn't going to happen and it still remains her most favorite food. Its no wonder she came up with a Fish Biriyani that looks so appealing.

Sanhita gets down to making Fish Rice, which was often prepared by her mom when they were kids. I know its always interesting to go down the memory lane, thinking back of those dishes we loved as kids. So she makes this for her lil one, am sure he liked to taste his moms favorite dish!

Finally we have one delicious looking Mutton biryani! Anytime for an authentic biryani, we normally refer to Hyderabadi Mutton Biryani. And Usha Rao brings it right out to your screen for a virtual treat to this lovely dish!

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Finally in this edition comes the sweet Treats! Check out each and every wonderful entry that sure will elate your senses!


Riz Condé, is Happycook's answer to having a dish with rice. This is a famous Belgium dessert that she started liking since the first time she ate. And to make things more funny, her in laws teases her that she can't be without rice for a meal. So imagine their reaction when rice comes in this form as dessert!

Sakkarai Pongal is something that gets prepared on most festivals. But believe me, anytime you make, it always gets lot of demand. And seeing Kamala's delicious bowl, well I can imagine how they must've enjoyed it!

This interesting Brown Rice Pudding comes from the talented Madhuram, who has very a interesting event themed on Egg replacement, which surely fits to be bookmarked! And this pudding is nonetheless interesting, where she uses soy milk and brown rice to create an yummy Pudding!

PG comes out with a beautiful experiment, that she takes up to do for her nephew. But most interesting thing about this bread is, it calls for rice flour! That is something I have never heard off, added to the fact of this delicious bread having pumpkin to it. All in all it looks like a lovely cake!

Rekha shares this recipe of the dish she eat at her aunt place. Paal Kozhukattai is something that's very delicious and famous dish from south and seeing Rekha's I can imagine the taste!

Zarda: Sweet Saffron Rice, this sweet dessert comes from Soma, who eat this at a party. When she wanted to recreate, she knew orange juice went into the preparation. After a long search, she ended up following her own and landed in a perfect yummy dish! do check on to read her cute lil's creative imagination too!

The Cooker hoots in her whistle baring two gorgeous bowls of forbidden rice pudding. How forbidden it is, I don't know. But hey how can one resist if these are doused with doses of almond and coconut milk!

Uma as usual makes all dishes look perfect. So its no wonder when she send me her version of a Sweet Pongal, you get down drooling over it!

This Milk Porridge or Paal Kanchi, as its called is an unique entry from Viki. This dish, I came to know, makes an excellent diet food for people and gets done fast. I was happy getting to know Viki's blog through this event, as she has some very interesting recipes posted!

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We come to the end of today's edition. Looking forward to the grand finale of this Rice Mela, come back on Monday!

Have a great weekend!

The Mega Rice Mela Round up ~ Part 3!

Today we are going to have a feast with the different pulaos and one pot meal. I have mostly gone by the tag name given for the dish, it could well be either too.

Though I have always wanted to know the exact difference between a pulao and a biryani, there seems to be many an opinion. Pulao is a mild dish that's prepared with either having the rice cooked along with the vegetables or as a layer. While Biryani is more rich and more elaborate and mostly cooked separately and them layered to have the aromas mixed. I am most eager to know of any accurate definition for these two.

One pot meal as showcased here, are mostly dals or lentils cooked along with vegetables and rice, which makes a perfect meal on itself!!

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Lets check out the delicious Pulaos with Veggies!

The lull that came in after the Diwali celebrations had Alka getting used to the lazy routine. But kids will be kids right, so her son started complaining on the boredom that never seems to be get away with kids. To make things exciting they took off for a picnic and enjoyed to the maximum. The never ending food did end, and they ended up in a stall to eat this lovely Tawa pulao. Back home Alka tries to recreate the magic in her kitchen and makes a pan pulao!

Next comes in Jaya with one lovely looking Vegetable Pulao, which goes well with raita. Not just these, she shares some lovely sentiments on her meme, which makes it an excellent read!

Then comes another veggie treat from Pavani. This delicious looking pulao has all sautéed vegetables cooked along with rice, which I am sure makes it a real treat!

PG comes with a pilaf that she says was done very rustically, hence the title goes that way!. But it didn't lack any of the flavorsome ingredients to make it taste any less. She decorated it with veggies and nuts cos PG is a nutty person! I mean she means she loves nuts!

Shibani makes this delicious looking Shahi vegetable pulao for a quick brunch. Having no mood to dine out, she came up with this quick one pot meal, which seems to have everything. The veggies, the spices and the look! Who could say to that wonderful bowl she has sent! I always rush in to check out her mouthwatering pictures!

Another interesting dish from Shifa is the Easy Veg Pulav. She says that even her picky son loves this pulav and eats without fuss. She dodges him by sneaking veggies into the rice, which I guess he does love in the end!

This much loved Vegetable bhath is another entry from Ujwal. She says she simply loves this bhath that her Mil prepares and makes sure to have it for all meals. So we know how awesome it must be! While you are at her blog, I am sure you wouldn't want to miss out this yummy Black Chana Pulao, as I did!

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Corns and dals mixed in rice make a great variety on table. Check out these interesting dishes these bloggers have to offer!


Archana tries her hand at making a rice thats very healthy and protien rich. Nothing can beat a sprouts, so you get a Sprouts Pulao, which is all green. Whats more she tries it with whats available on hand!

Hema from Adlaks tinyworld, prepares a channa puloa which is very delicious to look and I am sure tasted equally great. This way we get to include protein to our rice and make it more healthy!

Corn pulao, is another creation from Jayashree, who says it uses very few ingredients yet gives you the satisfaction of a flavourful dish has to! Well if you are in a mood to read what frustrating it is for a parent, read on her post!

Corn in any form is something very delicious to nibble on. And when you get to taste them along with Rice, I am sure you will fall in love with it. This recipe from Pavani sounds quick to make and very easy one to pack too!

I love corn in all forms, so its no wonder I am sorely tempted by the beautiful picture captured by Raji. She says she used baby corn instead of kernels. Well I won't say no ok!

Oh I love it when Shyam comes with her posts. She has a way with words and adds a trilling experience to read. Now she faced a query and sought the Google god's help, only to be prompted answered that what she was looking, was correct. I can say with her Green Lentil Rice, she made me and Sra happy because of the results!

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Lets get ready for a splash of Green hitting us in form of Coriander, Mint, and capsicum!

First on the list is a dish from CurryLeaf, who prepares another simple pulao using peas and since this is cooked together, its less work! Her picture looks more inviting than what she can say!

Gopi shah prepares one colourful pulav, by adding bell peppers to a spinach pulao. She loves spinach and makes it at every chance she gets! Well its no wonder, when the picture looks so tempting!

Next one comes from Hema of Adlaks tinyworld. Mixed rice with herbs are the best way to enjoy nature's gift to man. And Hema makes the most by preparing a coriander rice, that is very flavorsome and a treat to eyes!

I have very recently started appreciating the wonder of Tofu, and I see Himani combines it with spring onions to make a delicious looking pulao. I am sure the blend of these two makes it one great one pot dish!

Well any day an one dish meal is a great one to choice. And that's exactly what Jayasree feels when she makes this spinach and carrot come together with rice to make this lovely looking pulao, what's more paneer on the side to make one exciting meal!

Next we have Kayal enjoying this Pudina Rice for the first time when her dear mom made it for her baby shower function. She was really surprised with the taste and the interest it created in all. I can imagine how it is, since these variety rice have a way to please all!

From there we are back in college! The sweetness of college days, the wonderful friends we had back then, makes even studying such a fun task. And Laavanya spent days with her friends doing a group study. And in one such session, she got to taste this yummy Capsicum Rice. She makes it even more exciting by pairing it with Capsicum raitha!

You can actually have a field day mixing and matching different flavours in rice. And LG makes a flovoursome rice with mint infusing its aroma in rice. This rice comes handy when you are in a hurry to fix a quick one yet tasty on the sides!

Mahimma is very fond of this mint rice as her mom used to make it often for her. It always brings back those lovely college days when her friends used to whip away right off her lunch box, how yum!

From Radhi's Kitchen comes this green green Mint and Peas Pulav. I am sure they had a lovely time enjoying this bowl of pulao at their place!

Rajee dishes out the delicate Basil Flavored Vegetable Pulao. When at a time she couldn't find her usual mint on hand, she wanted to improvise with what she had on hand. Well I must say all improvise leads us to great taste, so does this pulao with such delicious look!

Another version of the lovely mint and coriander dancing together in rice, comes from Rekha. When its on a plantainleaf, how can one ignore its beauty!

Rinku has a suburban love affair with flavors and spices, for she is cooking in Westchester! The Saag Paneer Pulao, that she dishes out, is treat to visual and palate! She ensures she cooks up healthy food all on days as her farmers market keeps open with much choice! Whatever, who will say not to this yummy rice!

Then we Sangeeth making this delicious looking rice with capsicum and says this is the best of all she has tried till now. With the rice tucked into the capsicum, it sure looks very inviting!

Finally Supriya finds the perfect Bell Pepper Masala Rice, that was very delicious. She made this for a get together and am sure her guests simply loved it!

Sushma enjoying a cozy winter day with heavy clothing and hot piping coffee, decides to impress with her pulao that she makes with methi. Add few spices and stir in the rice, and wow you have an aromatic methi pulav on hand!

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Now we have puloas with elegant ingredients!

Three pretty ladies come baring the fragrant Kashmiri pulao, a taste of a beautiful land!

My memories of Kashmiri Pulao can be woven in long lengths! And reading DK's account of this pulao, gets me nostalgic for my Mom's preparation, which she used to make oft! The fragrant pulao with nuts and fruits, did a lot to a person first trying to learn about different cuisine. And DK's gorgeous picture does more then bring beauty to the ,this lovely dish from a beautiful land!

Mahimaa loves pineapple, so much so that, anytime of the day, you can find it stocked at her place. No wonder she was promoted to try this pulao with pineapple. I remember my mom making this and looking at her picture, sure makes me want to make it again!

One of those beautiful blogs I discovered is most definitely Sujatha's Spicy Khazana. Just as the name denotes, her blog is a khazana of detectable food and gorgeous pictures. Reading through her posts, one might forget to take a look at her tempting Kashmiri Pulao, but of course the colourful picture can't escape the notice!

With Nags being lazy one weekend, we ended up with an entry like a Paneer Peas Pulao. The beautiful picture makes me wonder if she is what she can come up with when lazy, how it will be when she is active and thought of cooking up a storm.

Ranji's passion for paneer, makes her try this new dish at her kitchen. She makes sure she has a stock of Paneer at anytime of the week and this time, it gets to adorn as Paneer Corn Pulao, which I am sure she enjoyed very much!

Well I was all mystified seeing the name 3 P pulav, that Shifa sent across. Her bil loves pulavs, so she was keen on making different types. But when finally she ran out of ideas, she just took what was on hand and made this delicious looking pulao with 3 Ps, well go on to read what they are!!

When you are lazy, yet want something to indulge, then this is for you. Paneer Pulao from Sukanaya, is just rightly flavoured and still exotic enough to be made for a party and to indulge you at home!

Then we have two interesting dishes from Hema, First dish is the much wanted Mushroom Pulao as a request from a reader. And I am sure they had a great time cooking this!

Next we find Hema cooking up a very innovative dish with rice and Pasta to end up as a great Pulao. The picture looks very inviting and am sure the taste too! Not just that this makes a great lunch box dish!

We get a peek into an authentic Bengali Polao sent by Indrani. This rice dish is little different because the bengalis are sweet people and they add a little sweet touch to all their dishes! And this classic caramelized sugar sure adds a zing to the dish!

I have always wondered at Muthiyas, the few that I have seen have always intrigued me. But when Sharmila sent in a pulao flavoured with these muthiyas, nothing looked better! I am sure the flavours that went into these tempting muthiyas are enough to take this pulao to a different level!

This typical authentic dish Arisi upma from Vij, that's prepared for breakfast, sure sounds very delicious. I have never tried it so, I am sure this is going to be my next do to list!

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Finally for today, we have one pot meals cooked with dals and rice along with loads of vegetables. These interesting dishes really do meals one complete meal!

Kadam Bhog is a rustic dish prepared in Rajasthan, the day after diwali. This dish symbolizes the beginning of new year and hence lot of new crop vegetables are used to prepare this dish. Archana Garg says this not only symbolizes prosperity but good on tummy too, after the heavy dose of diwali celebrations.

I guess BBB takes the crown of being the top on, one pot dish that can be made quickly, yet make for a comforting meal. And DK follows the lead in making the simplest one that her Mom makes. Well whatever Moms make its always delicious and DK does give a treat to eyes with her tempting picture! For the RM, when DK was dishing out one yummy roti after the other, I was upset. Well with three delicious entries, she has made me very happy I should say!

Hema shares with us the version of Bisi Bela Bath, that her mom learnt from her friends mom. Memories of childhood always evokes great feelings and if its related with food, its more intense as we enjoy the recreation.

Himani prepares her all favorite rice dish, Dana Bhat which is Rice cooked with Green Pigeon Pea. Now that must've been really comforting! I can remember eating those fresh peas just like that, so in rice it must've been awesome!

Kamalika makes this easy and quick one dish meal, Kootanchoru which tastes awesome as she says. When time is less, and you are in a hurry, then this comes to save your life!

Then we have two entries from Madhu. First one where she serves the staple rice with protein powder uploaded with moongdal. I am sure it packed them lots of energy! And not just that, she says she added some almonds for crunchy bites and more energy!..well after all she is running the marathon right.

Then getting back from a enjoyable trip back home, Madhu is not in a mood to cook elaborate dishes. Thinking of the many plates of panipuris and chaats that passed her taste buds, she is only on regular stuff. But she finally gets doing this one pot dish with simple masoor dal, which sure makes it very appealing!

Coming to the beautiful blogs I have discovered through this mela, this is another one of them! Rachana pens Coming to the down her memories of her mom's cooking, along with her own tests and trails. Its a true journey to discover flavors and spices and in one such attempt she makes the simplest of rice dishes that her moms makes, Daalimbi Bhaat! While you are at her blog, do hop on to check out the other lovely Pineapple Rice!

Then we have Rekha making this one pot dish with dal and rice blended with spices, to make a dish that's so easy and quick. Its called Arisimparuppu, which means dal and rice.

For Sowmya, its the one pot meal that's comforting. Its all in one dish your requirements for the day, with the lentils, proteins are mixed in one feed. What more can you ask when it looks as inviting as this Black Eyed Bean Rice!

Finally the pro gets into action! Suganya seeks comfort in a bowl with her Steaming hot kadamba sadam, specked with jackfruit seed. Well this is the first time I am hearing this sadam and I must say she has done it so beautifully with her elegant pictures. Kadambam means assortment of similar things and she does that to this curry with all veggies and rice!

Finally from me, this healthy Moong Dal Rice.

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Thats all for today folks! Hope you all have patience to check two more rounds of this!

The Mega Rice Mela Round up ~ Part 2!

The second part of the Rice mela comes with an array of Mixed Rices that are so very helpful in fixing a quick meal! Not just that, rice with just one fresh ingredient. I don't want to keep you from the entries!

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In a city where vegetarian food was not easily available, Ambika gets to try this garlic rice. Back home many months later, a chance tasting of a leftover chutney, reminds her of that wonderful Garlic rice she had. After many trial and tries, she lands with the perfect delicious version of this yummy Garlic Rice, which I am sure you will love, if you like Garlic!

Anu Sriram sends in three wonderful bowls of rice dishes. Hailing from the south, a cup of rice is a must on her table and every meal becomes a happy affair for her, only when rice is on display. So dishing a rice variety with Zucchini makes it more exciting. While you are at it, do check out Bengali Royal rice and spicy Chilli-Tangerine rice!

Anuradha loves Rice to no end. She says she would be ready to eat this anytime anywhere, well I am sure she has a huge collection of recipes for her love of rice. And this beautiful colourful, yet simple to make Veg Rice, is something she does to get her hubby appreciate the rice too! I am sure he does!

When I ended up cooking masale bhath for RCI Maharashtra, I knew how colorful their dish was. We really enjoyed our meal. And looking at the entry from Chakali, I knew mine was not so close to this delicious treat!

Pomegranate Rice, is another innovative dish from Deepika. She saw this on the tele sometime and having couple of them around, she decides to make this healthy rice! The rice looks like its hiding rubies within its nest!

Dhanya brings in two commonly loved ones, yet adding her own personal touch to them. Getting bored with the same old Jeera Rice, Dhanya tries to twist it by adding flavours like mint and coriander, which I am sure will give you a boost! Next one is the tangy Lemon Rice, which I am sure tastes as great as we know!. While you are at her place, be sure to check out her awesome cakes creations!

EC comes out with a Whole Moong Rice, which is tasty and quick to prepare. She says this is the best choice, when you have called in for a party!

From Hema, comes a very inviting cup of rice, made with curried peanuts. Her hubby dear likes are mixed rice varieties and she finally gets down to get the recipe from her mom. This sounds very interesting and makes a great lunch box recipe too!

For JZ, lemon Rice is a treat as she was making it for the first time. Having never attempted at this dish before when she finally gets down making it, she is trilled at the wonderful taste and flavours that comes from this dish!

This colourful Beetroot Rice, comes from Keerthana, who adds garam masala and a little bit of Rasam powder to spice up this delicious looking rice. I am sure with such spices, its sure to spice your taste!

Lisa loves eating rice with just butter and salt when she is hurried. But she never gets tired of finding an interesting accompaniment for rice. Getting her hands on a new cookbook, prompts her to find more exciting ways to enjoy rice. This sure is as exciting as it can get, when the rice gets flavored with lime and other spices!

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Spicy Bell Peppers joins Tangy Tomatoes to make this lovely simple rice for Mansi. She says this makes up for quick and easy weekday dinner, yet grace party table for its taste and simplicity. Now what else can one ask for!

Aloo Gobi ki Tehari comes from the lovely Medhaa of the Cook with Love! This she says she got to know from her friend and its a dish from UP, though not very authentic. But hey, who cares about it when the dish looks as delicious as in the picture!

Pavani makes this healthy looking Carrot Rice. Now who can say no for a rice flavored with carrot, blended with spices, a rice that makes a perfect lunch box recipe.

Dear Foodies, Priya writes good stories with great pictures. Recently she lost and found a family recipe, which was worth all the drooling I had over the screen. And this Stir fried veggies with brown rice, is no less. It sure makes up for a quick fix when you are in a hurry or use up the little bits of veggies lying around!

For Raji, making this Vangi bath gives great pleasure as she simply loves brinjals! She fondly remembers the yummy Vangi Bath she used to get from her college mess, and tries to recreate the wonder at home. I am sure she enjoyed revisiting the taste!

Next version of Vangi bath comes from Sarada. Looking at the beautiful bowl of Vangi Bhath, I can only imagine how delicious it must have been. This for sure tempt even those who don't like brinjal!

From the acclaimed blogger Shilpa of the Aayisrecipes, comes this interesting Methi Val Rice. I was hoping I would get to showcase an authentic dish from her Aayi herself. But guess I have to be content with this quick and easy lunch box recipe from Shilpa.

Smitha from her traditional kitchen, brings us the flavour of mango as in a chitranam. I know how yummy it is and its even more nostalgic reading her wonderful post about her childhood, enjoying the mango delicacies that her folks used to make for them as kids!

Supriya finds this Zucchini Rice and gets on to prepare it as she finds the combination exciting. Its a simple yet tasty way to get this veggie into your food!

The way Uma is attached to apples, I almost thought she might create an innovation by preparing Apple rice, but she struck to corns because she is friends with it!. And she can happily have just corns for a meal. But then this being a rice mela, she ought to add rice right, so we get to see her beautiful corn masala rice!

Usha finds this combination of cabbage in rice very intriguing and gets on the job of making a mexican rice. Only to realize that she will be forced to look out for cabbage more often from now. Now who can say no to something that looks and tastes so well as she says, right!

Veda comes with an fantastic mix of Urad Dal in rice. Its something I never knew and its a pleasure knowing that its a family recipe, passed on through generations. This unusual combination of this dal with rice, flavored with spices, makes it really so delicious.

This colorful Carrot Rice is from Vidhya Arvind. She says its very simple to make, I am sure with all those spices that's gone in, will for sure taste great. This is one sure way to get the carrots to the kids!

Finally from me, the Gongura Fried Rice, where the gongura leaves were sauteed in spices and mixed in rice to make a great dish!

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Next we have the delicious coconut getting cooked in many ways across the globe!

First on the display, we have Jayasree remembering about mixed rice preparations nit being so common when she was young. Those were the days, they used to look forward to the special occasions when these were prepared. And Thengai sadam tops her list of favorite rice varieties. Its good to see that she doesn't wait for special days to treat her folks with such yummy dishes!

If Coconut rice can only look so glamorous as JZ's picture. I know many would love to mince the whole bowl in one shot! She says this is the first time she was preparing it and it was completely enjoyed by her folks, I wonder why she even had a doubt!

Sangeetha prepares a Coconut rice that has the flavours of the fresh coconut garnished with the good ness of cashew. I know this is a comfort food anytime of the day. Do check on her Vegetable biryani which she calls as lite because it has less of spice and good on stomach!

Next we have Shifa remembers fondly about her grandma who makes the best coconut rice. However much she tries, she wasn't able to recreate the magic taste. Well afterall its the touch that matters right, still I am sure it taste great!

Sushma Madhuchandra says she loves to make this coconut pulav because of the readily available coconut milk. I know at times, you do want some easy way to handle tough things. Coconut pulav is always a hit, so no wonder her hubby and son loves this!

Growing up, Ujwal used to have these delicious Coconut Rice or Nucchi as she calls, for breakfast. Well it must be the proverb right, eat breakfast like a king!

Finally Vaishali shares her version of making the traditional Thagai Sadam, the Tamil way. Well I have always had a soft corner for it and her picture does no good to my craving. How I wish that bowl was with me right now!

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If you are a lover of pineapple, then these are surely going to impress. Not to mention the tangy lovers, the Tamarind Rice gets on spot!

The chance of getting awed had JZ trying her hand at a new dish, that had fresh pineapples and peas. Of course, she omitted the chicken and shrimp. So what, this looks tempting as such for us vegetarians right!

Then have Lakshmi Venkatesh making this interesting Pineapple Pulao from another blogger and all her folks enjoyed it! Well it does look very delicious and great way to use pineapple.

From Rachana Nabar, comes this delicious Pineapple for the array of pines

From a wonderful blog called Sourashtra kitchen, comes this plate of Pineapple Rice. Radhika in an attempt to recreate the delicious pineapple rice she had at a marriage, attempts couple of times, before hitting the treasure. Her hubby is a great lover of pineapple, so I can imagine her elation in finally pleasing him to her satisfaction!

Now we have the tangy tamarind Rice dishes. First to make is Lubna, who makes another inviting treat that never dulls me anytime of the day. Its none other than the pulihora. she says she had kept it simple, but in my opinion, no pulihora is simple in its taste!

Medhaa is no different in loving Puliyogare. She finally finds a version that suits her needs and taste. And that bowl looks fit to satisfy any cravings you might have. And what's more, its made with tamarind paste, no hassles of extracting the pulp!

For me, reading Rekha's entry recipe, brought many nostalgic moments. That's how we call this lovely pulihora at home and seeing her bowl full of this delicacy makes it mouth watering!

Finally we have Sailu giving us a peek into the traditional Andhra touch. This pulihora is a dish that can bring back many lovely memories, its no wonder she says she gets reminded of her grandmother's kitchen! And we get to see the proof in such lovely picture too!

And from me, another traditional Andhra Pulihora with Sesame Seeds!

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Plump tomatoes get pureed to take form as the delicious Tomato Rice

Tomato rice has always been my favorite one in mixed variety rice dishes and the one that Aparna sends in, sure looks very delicious to grab for another serve!

Next we have this amazing pilaf made with tomatoes, that were cooked in a broth, sure makes an interesting dish anytime. And JZ is happy that she tried this as this sure made her lil one very happy!

The cook in her, prompted to make this authentic tomato rice. This is a recipe that her aunt makes to impress guests, her uncle included, says Nags! But when it looks as tempting as this, I don't think anybody can say no for a second serving!

This lovely spoonful of tomato rice comes to us from Raji's kitchen. When I saw this picture peeping to me when it reached my mail box, I was thrilled to see it so inviting. I am sure her lil boy had a great time enjoying this!

Talk about bounties and dishes within! Sunshinemom is ready with her versatile tomato rice in a pulaoed fashion! It is indeed strange how one ingredient can easily take forms of different variations, yet each of it tastes great. To make matters more intense, she says she can't be without rice for long and decks it with a twist of spring onions!

Sushma shares her wonderful signature dish and its none other than the Tomato Bath. I think how many ever varieties you have, each of them is a classic one!

Tomato Rice can always cheer you up! And Veena's looks so colourful that I am sure it taste just as expected!

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Thats all for now!

The Mega Rice Mela Round up ~ Part 1!

Well I wouldn't have guessed there were so many Rice lovers out there. Especially in so many forms. When I thought of Rice as the next ingredient to celebrate and learn, I knew I would get to see lot of new dishes, but this many I never expected. I would really like to thank all my dear fellow bloggers, who have taken up this challenge and made me happy by being so enthusiastic about the event!

For the record, we have a total of 350+ entries, sent by 126 bloggers. Special thanks goes to Priya and Divya, who have really excelled themselves in sending so many of their lovely dishes!

Before seeing the entries, some info about rice. Rice being the staple food of Asian countries, is used in different forms. As a whole grain, as a flour, it lets itself be recreated in many wonderful dishes.

As the whole grain, we have the one pot dishes, the mixed rice varieties, the pulaos, biryanis etc! As a flour, you have the different snacks and starters taking form. I am pleased to note that we have entries from all categories.

Lets proceed to check out the entries. Believe me the posts are long, so do take patience and read through all of them. I have done my best in reading the entire post before taking a synopses, but please feel free to comment if any error found. And of course if any entry is seen missing!

I had some real nice time, discovering new blogs through this event. I would be going to check on them again. Few bloggers didn't link back to my event, I have included them in the round up, but please do link back, else you will be depriving your readers a chance to enjoy this showcase of Rice in its beauty!

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Well it almost looked like a Mini Dosa Mela again! For the variety that came in surely elated me!

Chitiaps are Rice Pancakes from Goa and Ann makes them in remembrance of her stay in the place. She muses she was lucky in getting to learn and enjoy the delicacies of the land of paradise. This interesting pancake makes use of egg and is served with spicy kurmas. Can really imagine the awesome taste of these lovely pancakes!

This super crispy Dosa comes from my dear friend Anu. I rediscovered Anu during the Dosa Mela. When I asked for dosa varieties, she never failed to impress with her quick ones. But she has gone the nine yards for the Rice Mela, with all that soaking and fermenting the dosa! Whatever, her killer Dosa is surely the die for types!!

Deepika finds the abundance of cucumber getting to her and she ends up making this dosa, which I am sure will taste great! Nutritionally these are very good for health and what a wonderful way to include this in our diet for the breakfast!

Gomathi makes this healthy tomato adai, which is tasty and simple to make. I always love adai and adding tomato makes it more interesting!

What do you do when you buy something, only to realize that you already have them at home. Naturally right, these tiny ones get lost amidst the loads of groceries. Well Jay found herself in that situation and comes with a perfect answer for it. She throws a handful of these Pohas into the dosas, only to discover how soft these make the dosa batter! Well try it and enjoy!

If Jayashree came, will her namesake be far away? Jayasree brings out a Kerala special for the mela, with the super duper combo of Adai with Aviyal. Though I have personally not eaten this together, reading her post sure makes me want to try this next!

Another entry from Jayasree are the lovely Set Dosas, which are something I haven't got around trying. Though I am yet to know why its called Set dosa, it always looks very appealing. Combined with Dhansak, Jayasree makes one interesting breakfast!

Next comes my dear friend Kamala, with her couple of entries. first being Aappam, which are my most favorite ones. Seeing her yummy ones, reminds me that its been a while since I made. She says her grandmom used to make both vellai and with jaggary. Awww....wish she stayed closer to my place!

Not being satisfied with tempting me with Appams, Kamala makes Cone dosas. Imagine going to a hotel and getting to eat these eye catchers. But hey you needn't go further, Kamala sends one fitting the bill so well!

Keerthana comes with yet another crowd pleaser, the Neer Dosa, which is a famed dosa from Karnataka. This one has always has been on my to do list and seeing her beautiful picture, makes me want to venture into this right away!

Finally we have Lakshmi Venkatesh coming with a healthy dosa. She tries different ways to include pumpkin in their diet as her folks don't like them. But she is very keen because this vegetable has lots that are required for our consumption. So when nothing else works out, sneaking this into a dosa is the best option she can!

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Steamed Dishes

Archy makes a very innovative idlies with methi and what's more, you can get them done instant. You don't require to wait for hours for the batter to ferment and on top its spicy to excite your taste buds

If you ever had doubts about how to pronounce the ZH as in most tamil words, then this post is where you got to head! Chitra's amma's smart grandson comes with an explanation on rolling the tongue and Chitra amma comes with an tempting post on making Mor Koozhu!

Jayasree always comes out with authentic dishes and this is no different. The much loved and wanted Sevai, is the one that's on spotlight. She explains different ways this is made and the different flavors one can add to this basic one! Its truly a delicacy!

From Kamala's corner, we have three exciting dishes. She has ensured she used the rice in all possible ways. The Neer Urundai and Uppu Adai are delicious. But nothing can beat the sundal she has prepared. I have seriously never heard rice being used as a sundal! Kamala, that's a rocking recipe indeed!

Idli seems to have lot of fans too. I am die hard fan who can eat these anytime. Well you ask if I am eating Dosas and Idlis all the time, when does other fit? Well you can't really ask after seeing such soft ones as Kamala's Idlis. These look enough to tempt a saint!

Idiyappam are a lovely things, it captivates you and induce you for a happy slumbering! And Lakshmi Venkatesh's Idiyappam, which she calls as String Hoppers are very inviting!

If there is one thing that I love to distraction, its the Puttu and Shifa makes it worse by presenting such a lovely and tempting picture of puttu topped with kadala curry. I really wish I could dig into that picture right away!

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Savory Balls ~ Upma

Ok this savory versions of these lovely paniyarmas have been calling to Lakshmi venkatesh to post! How sweet, I mean how savory of them! The savory version is her hubby's favorite, so she gets down making these often, and no sooner they disappear. I can well imagine that!

Another authentic dish from Chattinad is the Vellai paniyaram, which gets adored on all occasions. So Rekha comes with her version to tantalize our taste buds!

Rice balls or Undi as its called, is a famous Mangalorean breakfast item says Ujwal. Being in a different country, preparing this traditional item was out of question. But finally luck favored her as she was able to lay hands on the things needed and they enjoyed those lovely balls!

Gomathi remembers how her mom used to make this Puli Upma, frequently during her childhood. This gets done just before making idli batter and they enjoy it with coconut chutney. I know how nostalgic it sounds!

Poha makes an interesting item for breakfast. Its quick to make yet tasty to the palate. Madhoo Gargya finds a new way of preparing this and enjoys with raisins and cashews to make it a very healthy dish for the breakfast!

Priya's pictures always comes out beautiful. So its no doubt this Murmura Upma is a feast to eyes. It looks so colourful and vibrant, I feel I can just grab it off the screen! Upma with murmura is the easiest one to do, yet filling! So I am sure you will be tempted to attempt this!

Finally from me, this upma was made with broken rice which taste out of the world!

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Next on Parade are the Southy Handsome guy Called Pongal along the Damsel from North the delicate Khichdi!

Ven Pongal is a dish that never fails to satisfy. When you combine this with the killer vadai and coconut chutney, awa...you needn't have anything else! Kamalika makes a variant by serving it with masalai vadai..I can imagine how she must've enjoyed her breakfast!

Next version of this versatile Ven Pongal comes from Lakshmi Venkatesh. This she says is her family's favorite with Meddu vada and chutney. Well I guess there are many takes for this combo!

Medhaa comes with her version of Pongal, using split moong dal and coconut. I have personally never known using coconut in this, so surely another version for me to try!

From Meera comes another traditional dish, this time Vaalachi Khichdi. The thing about Meera's dishes are, I find myself so tempted to prepare them right away. I am sure you are too!

Khichdi is the dish for a lazy day for Shifa. Not only does she love this but her kids too, which makes it just too perfect! This makes it very healthy dish as it has the dal and veggies too!

Be it the occasion of the special day for the brother or when it comes to the comfort food, its this simple, yet much loved Khichdi for Simran, gets cooked. It was interesting to note how food gets related to the day and occasion, when such simple dishes takes the main stage!

When you talk about food for the soul or comfort food, there are absolutely The dishes that tops the list and, of course khichdi is bound to be there. This beautiful Khichdi prepared by Sunshinemom, is a treat to eyes too. With dals dancing in the rice with a speck of this and that, this completes the need for a satisfying meal!

Usha Rao wants to share her simple Chana Dal Khichdi, which she likes a lot. Yes, these one pot meals are treasure to have, what with the proteins they have and the quick and easy way to get your breakfast or any time meal ready in minutes!

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Other interesting dishes made with Rice!

Next we have the soups, salads and few other making its way with Rice!

Add a little bit more and that's what you get from Divya. She takes a bit of this and that and comes out with one inviting looking salad made with Wild rice. Not just that, she gives a twist by adding mangoes and roasted cashews! I can only imagine the flavours that must've passed by the palate!

Ramki's blog is a wonderful place for you to get all links in one place. And this collection of simple variety rice is no less

If you ever needed a guidance on becoming a TV reporter, then our dear Sia has all the tips for you! Not just that, she is planning to open a News Channel. But before that can happen, do check out her delicious Risotto with roasted butternut squash!..Its sure to warm up any chillness that you may have!

A moral dilemma has Sig lamenting on her passion for Kit Kats. Not sure if she has set up an elaborate plan to flick those kit kats, but this bowl of Butternut Squash Soup with Rice, will for sure steal your heart away!..psst Sig, what happened to that kit kat??

Well if you are in for lesson in Japanese cuisine, then this is for you. Not just that I learnt few things from this lovely post from Simran, who tries to make Sushi at home for the first time. I know I won't even have the courage to attempt! Simran always does ensure she has something interesting in every post of hers and this was no different!

If there has to be an innovation done, then I am sure the winning shot will come from dear Sunita, who with her picture perfect pictures, gives a perfect meaning to things. Her dish
"Three rice and vegetable bake", sounds more like the three men in a boat. And as the story of that goes, this too has some wonderful feedback from her folks.

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Snacks with Rice make a great one to enjoy!

These delicious savory crackers with rice and peanuts were what Aparna loved to munch on during her college days. Her mom used to pack a load of these for her then, and she used to enjoy with her friends. Now its her hubby's favorite too.

Archana made this spicy Chivda for this Diwali, which the couple loved so much that it was devoured in no time. Chivda is almost a part of all festive occasions in all parts of India, though each variety varies in its proportions, yet nothing to beat its taste and popularity!

Cham always comes out with interesting ideas, This time it is Carrot rissole, well read on to know what rissole is all about, its a tasty looking appetizer, this time very smartly used up the leftover rice and then pan fried. I am sure this makes a great evening snack for kids!

Pakodas are everybody's favorite and if its made with left over rice, what more can you ask! Karuna, back from a trip wonders why she hasn't posted much and while on a patrol gets her eyes on this lovely draft! Well I am only glad she decided to post atleast now!

Having always bought these delicious snacks, Roochi learnt couple of lessons when she finally made these Nippattu at home. First thing is, things that look hard are always easy to make and there is nothing like the feeling you have when you end up with yummy snacks like these!

Finally from me, the Rice Pakodas stuffed with onions and Potatoes!

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Before we can take for today, lets take a look at dishes where rice is sautéed and fried the imagination!

This simple, yet most satisfying rice dish using jeera is my most favorite one. And Arundhuti brings it to the Mela. What a lovely tribute to the delicious Jeera Rice.

Jeera Rice is always a winner and it sure helps to have it on table when you are partying. But when its combined with a killer Dal Makhani, what can you expect? Bhagyashri makes one tempting bowl of Dal Makhani and sends only the jeera rice! Well I dont' mind having the other bowl too!

Johanna makes this delicious looking Fried rice that she combined with vegetables, pineapple and cashews. Wow, I am sure it tasted as great as it sounds. She liked it the first time so much, that she already made it couple of times. If you ask where the inspiration, well of course, she remembers the one her mom used to make. Now there is no dispute for that! It must be lovely!

This simple ghee rice also called as the brinji rice comes from Madhoo Gargya. She says she makes this in a jiffy in the morning, to accompany some tasty kurma or channa masala for the lunch box. I am sure her folks are happy carrying this!

Now isn't it fun, when you ask this lovely couple, Medhaa and her hubby, a question if they love Chinese, they will say no but still eat it every other week. Maybe they don't want us to know how much they actually love this, as its apparent by the delicious looking fried Rice!

Navita makes this great looking fried rice with mushrooms and omelet. The very combo sounds interesting, though I can always replace mushrooms. Do check on her lovely post on her message to heal this world!

Shifa's adorable kids gives her on toes and she finds out dishes she can convince her kiddos to eat. Ghee rice or Neyichor as its called in malayalam, is an all time favorite dish with kids and adults no doubt. The ghee with the spices added, sure makes it an awesome, yet simple rice dish to prepare!

My dear Siri comes with her version of fried rice, so beautiful decked up with tofu. Hearing so much about the goodness of tofu, this become a sure must do one for many, am sure!

Craving for different food, has Sushma feeling bad. But she needn't worry, most of us are like that! And in one moment of such thoughts, she wanted to prepare something and the result of what we have Mushroom Fried Rice. I am sure her folks are one lucky guys, if she keeps getting such cravings!

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Thats all for today folks!...Please do wait for all the round up to be done and let me know if any of your entries are missed. I really hope not!..

Have a great week ahead!

Announcing the "Best of year 2008" Event!

As the year closes down to its final month, we always get that feeling of excitement for the coming New year. Yet I also always feel nostalgic and sometimes sad, thinking and knowing the days, the months that passed away, will never come back. This is the time we feel its time to think back, to think back on the days and memories each day created for us. Those special moments that will forever remain fresh in your minds and hearts.

There would have been highs and lows in all walks of life. The last week of December always buzzes with the happenings of the year long and that compels us to think back on those important moments in life! I always end up thinking what passed and whats going to come. We hardly ever get time to relax and enjoy the moment. Many such moments pass away, yet we never pause to think on those.

Coming to blogging, most of the times, I hardly get to go back and read my old posts. So this time is the best, to take time to read back and think on how I can plan for next year! That brings to mind that everybody would find it interesting to do this exercise.

My blog is a reflection of what I learn from my Amma and Athamma and my own creations, along with how my family reacted to them. So there are bound to be some favorites. Last year I had great fun doing something similar. So I thought why not again take a stock of what I did during the Year 2007!

This will be a great chance to know all our fellow blogger's Year's Best and Favorite! The number of food blogs coming up are so many and this will be a perfect chance to know about what has gone into these months. So a review of their Year's best will be a great way to know what they felt was the best and which recipes were challenging? Which new recipe became a regular on dinner table? Which one will continue to rock your foodie thoughts? What are you plans for the coming year? What are your resolutions?

So let me cordially invite all my dear fellow bloggers to share their "Year's Best" in an event that does not require you to cook, click foodie pictures, anything. Just doing a recap of your own sweet blog.

I am just giving few items for you to get started. It can be these or whatever you want to share:

1. Top 5 or 10 recipes of the year
2. Best dish of the month
3. Best recipe prepared from other blogs
4. Best Meal of the year
5 New things discovered in the year (can include anything related to cooking)
6. Best post or picture for each month or year
7. New blogs discovered
8. Cooking resolutions for the Year 2009!

Lets celebrate the new year with a recap of what we did during 2008!

Guidelines for the event.

1. Write your post by 1st January 2009. Feel free to use logo.

2. In your post, include a link to this announcement.

3. Mail me your details to cooking4allseasons@gmail.com with the subject line "Best of 2008".

I hope you will enjoy doing this recap. Looking forward to read your exciting post and of course your feedbacks are most welcome!

Have a great weekend!

Andhra Chicken Roast!

Maybe the hectic pressure of posting got on to me finally. Or the fact that parents have moved to their new place. Until I heard back from them on their safe reach, I was on thorns. Then the fact that Amma now has to adjust to her new place, got me worrying. Of course, Dad is there to take care of things. I am already missing them so much, that its funny to realize that I have kids of my own and I can't really behave like a kid! Konda didn't really understand that her Ammama would be gone for a while, so I took her to meet them before she slept. Then later while she was trying to sleep she was crying, trying hard not to show. I know how hard it was for her. I know it will take us a while to get used to our routine now. I am still eagerly waiting for the next phone call from them. It might be a while before Dad will get his internet connection and read my posts. He never misses a post and infact corrects me if I have gone wrong using a telugu word. I was joking to Amma that now she should finally pick up computer, I needn't worry about recording her cooking.

Coming to cooking, I haven't cooked anything new that I could share. Because I couldn't be away for long, I thought I would share this tasty Chicken Roast that Amma had made for Dad and then because it was awesome, asked me to make for hubby dear. Dad had loved it on first bite and when I made it, kids loved it too. For hubby dear, it was little less spicy, I added some more chilli powder again and yes, it met his approval too. On my part, I simply loved the fact that I had sunlight beaming on me and I took advantage most of it. I must say these pictures are what I loved more of this dish!

Ingredients Needed:

To marinate:

Chicken - 500
Curds/ Yogurt - 1 cup
Garlic - 5 pods,
Salt to taste
Chilli powder - 1 & 1/2 tsp

For the saute:

Onions - 1 big
Ginger pieces - 1"

For powder:

Whole Coriander - 1 tsp
Cumin Seeds - 1/2 tsp
Fennel - 1/2 tsp
Poppy paste -1 1/2 tsp

Coriander leaves for garnish

Method to prepare:

Wash and cut chicken to desired size. Crush garlic and mash well. In a bowl, take the chicken pieces along with curds, garlic, salt and chilli powder and marinate for 30 mins.

Heat oil in a kadai and saute onions till its lightly brown, add the ginger pieces and saute well. Then add the chicken marinade. Cover with lid and cook in sim for 20 mins, without adding water.

Meanwhile roast the whole coriander, cumin seeds and fennel seeds and grind to a smooth powder. If whole spices are not available, you can use powdered spices too.

Check in intervals and stir well, so that the burnt doesn't get burnt. Once the chicken is well cooked and oil has started coming on the sides, add this ground spice powder along with poppy paste and cook again for 20 mins or till cooked.

Garnish with coriander leaves.

I am still trying to figure out all the lovely entries that I have got for Rice Mela, thank you all. Would try to do a round up by 2nd week. Not sure if I can cook something new by then.

Meanwhile, I have cooked some interesting dishes for my kids and you can visit my Spice your Life blog for the updates! Check out the Udhi Bonda that Peddu loved!