Soni's Food

Indian Inspiration!

Easy Tofu Scramble

15 | 09 | 2016
By Soni Sinha

Crisp morning air feels magical, especially after the recent heat spell the past few weeks. Kids are now settled into their routine and I can finally get back into my own routine after the summer break. I’m back into my kitchen rejuvenated and inspired (this weather does that to me) and the focus will be on healthy recipes since I’ve realized that I might have gained a few extra pounds over the summer break, especially our month-long UK holiday! (blame it on my list of must-eat British foods and its quite a long list 🙂 )

easy tofu scramble

My recipe today involves Tofu and it’s a simple breakfast/brunch recipe that’s absolutely delicious! If you haven’t tried a Tofu Scramble yet, well then, you should. I love Tofu and it’s one of the easiest things to work with. It can take on any flavor and it’s a good source of protein and energy. Its also pretty filling so you won’t be hungry for a while!

easy-tofu-scramble-2

My Tofu Scramble uses onions, scallions and peppers (in yellow and orange keeping in mind the warm autumn hues) along with some cilantro for garnish. The peppers are a nice addition here adding their crunch and color and I’ve also added some chili flakes for a hint of heat (that’s purely optional). The dish takes less than 30 mins to prepare and looks beautiful on the table. The flavors are very clean and fresh and it’s a simple dish that looks as good as it tastes. Enjoy.

easy-tofu-scramble-1

Easy Tofu Scramble

Print Recipe

Ingredients
  

  • Extra Firm Tofu-2 15oz packets
  • small onion-1
  • scallions chopped-1/2 cup
  • chili flakes-1tbsp
  • 1 large yellow pepper
  • 1 large orange pepper
  • cilantro-for garnish
  • salt and pepper
  • oil-2 tbsp

Instructions
 

  • Drain the tofu and place it between two thick towels to squeeze out the liquid.Crumble the tofu with your hands.Keep aside.
  • Chop the peppers and scallions.
  • In a pan heat oil and add the onions and scallions.
  • Saute for a about 2 mins and add the chili flakes.
  • Follow with the peppers and let it cook for another 3-4 mins.Add some salt and pepper.
  • Add the crumbled tofu and let it cook for about 2-3 minutes.Check the seasonings.
  • Add the cilantro.Mix well.
  • Serve hot.

Hara Bhara Kebab (Indian Spiced Potato Cakes with Spinach and Peas)

23 | 03 | 2016
By Soni Sinha

Its Holi (Hindu festival of colors) and millions of Indians are celebrating it with food and festivities.India becomes a kaleidoscope of colors on Holi, where people and even the streets are painted with myriad of colors.Everywhere you see, colorful powders in red,pink,greens and yellows are strewn through the air or mixed with water ready to be used on your loved ones and people have so much fun. It’s one of the biggest festivals in India and is known for the one time when ‘bhang’ (cannabis) is consumed openly.It’s used in various delicacies being prepared during Holi and everyone wants a taste!Not to forget all the multifarious foods that’s also a huge part of Holi celebrations, preparations for which starts way before-hand.Elaborate menus are planned for Holi with varieties of appetizers,entrée and desserts serving to every palate.

Hara Bhara Kebab

And while I do not have a bhang recipe to share with you today, these gorgeous Hara Bhara Kebabs are quite the perfect Holi appetizer with their vibrant color derived from the spinach and green peas.The kebabs are then mixed with a combination of aromatic spices and fresh herbs to give a distinctive color and flavor that’s synonymous with a traditional Hara Bhara Kebab.Its one of the most popular Vegetarian appetizers in Indian Restaurants and with this easy recipe you can enjoy them in the confines of your own home!The kebabs can be assembled in advance and can be frozen or chilled until you’re ready to pan fry them for your guests.They come together in no time and couldn’t be any easier.The flavors consist of nutty cumin,coriander and garam masala along with some ginger and fresh herbs like cilantro and mint.

What would I do without mint!I use it in almost anything I cook 🙂
And believe me it works beautifully in these kebabs too!They’re insanely delicious and highly addictive even without the ‘bhang’!Enjoy and HAPPY HOLI!!

Hara Bhara Kebab 2

Hara Bhara Kebab

Hara Bhara Kebab (Indian Spiced Potato Cakes with Spinach and Peas)

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Ingredients
  

  • 3 medium size boiled potatoes
  • 2 tsp chopped ginger
  • 1 tbsp chopped green chillies
  • 1 cup blanched spinach
  • 2 cups boiled green peas microwaved for 2 minutes on high
  • ¾ cup fresh coriander & mint leaves
  • Cornflour-2 tbsp
  • Salt
  • Oil to pan fry

Spice Mix

  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1 dry red chili
  • 1 tbs coriander seeds
  • 1 tsp chat masala
  • 1 tsp garam masala

Instructions
 

  • Boil the potatoes, allow them to cool and then peel and mash.
  • Blanch spinach leaves in boiling water, then put immediately in cold water (to retain fresh green color) and squeeze out excess water.
  • Dry roast the spice mix ingredients in a pan for a few mins until fragrant.Once done allow to cool and grind to a powder.
  • In the same pan add 2 tbsp of oil and ginger. Saute for a minute and add the green peas.
  • Cook for a couple of minutes.
  • Transfer the peas and spinach into a food processor and make a paste along with cilantro and mint.
  • Add this to the mashed potato along with the spice mix and cornflour.Check the seasonings.
  • Divide the mixture into equal portions. Shape each portion into a ball and then press it between your palms to give it a flat shape.
  • Heat a pan and drizzle some oil. Cook the kababs on both sides to golden and crisp outside on medium heat.
  • Repeat the same with the remaining mixture.Serve with your favorite chutney or sauce.

 

Lamb Seekh Kebabs #GalloFamily #SundaySupper

13 | 12 | 2015
By Soni Sinha

“Holidays are here
to bring us some cheer
with fun and laughter,
with Family and friends,
and memories that last,
happily ever after”

Aren’t holidays just that? Good times spent together with those we love. These past couple of months have been rather busy with the start of the holiday season and that means lots of gatherings. And it continues until the end of the year and we can’t seem to get enough of all the fun we’re having. Our Christmas tree is all decked up and I’m looking forward to some quality family time over the kids’ winter break.

Lamb seekh Kebabs

I’m sure many of you would be traveling to be your family for the holidays. Last December we traveled to the UK to spend Christmas with family but this time round we’ll be meeting our cousins here in America and when we all get together it’s some serious fun. I’m looking forward to all the laughter, our singing sessions and lots of wine! And when it comes to wine there’s one brand that shares a similar philosophy of family values and has consistently been a favorite. I’ve enjoyed Gallo Family Vineyards’ wines for years and they were kind enough to send me their gorgeous Merlot and Red Moscato for this event. While I’m looking forward to grilling some lamb chops( with some rosemary, olive oil, salt and pepper) to enjoy with the Merlot, the recipe I have for you today pairs really well with the Red Moscato. Want to see if Gallo Family Vineyards’ wines are available in your area? Click here.

Lamb Seekh Kebabs 5

If you know me, you know that I love spicy foods and kebabs are my all time favorites. They’re imperative to my holiday appetizer menu and my guests love them. Like these Lemon Chicken Kebabs or my succulent Chicken Shami Kebabs. I can’t seem to get enough of kebabs and find them irresistible. They’re also super easy to make and appeal to every palate with their robust flavor. The Indian Subcontinent is blessed with multifarious kebab delicacies and each one has its own unique flavor pattern.

Lamb Seekh Kebabs 6

My Lamb Seekh Kebabs are infused with ginger, garlic, some spices, cilantro and taste amazing. Once the mixture comes together, they’re rolled along a wooden or metal skewer and can be grilled over a bbq, in a tandoor (clay oven), in the oven, or even pan-fried until all golden and delicious. They make for an amazing appetizer or even an entrée dish if served with a pita bread and can be prepared a day in advance. Just assemble the mixture and wrap around the skewers. Grill them just before your guests arrive. The kebabs are insanely delicious and will leave your guests wanting more.

Gallo Family Red Moscato

Gallo Family Red Moscato would be the perfect accompaniment to these kebabs. This vibrant medium bodied wine balances the spices in the kebabs with its sweet citrus and peach flavors with a bright red berry finish. It’s fresh, perfectly light and best served chilled. It pairs best with light cheeses, spicy foods and desserts. One of my favorites during the Holidays!

Lamb Seekh Kebabs

Lamb Seekh Kebabs #SundaySupper

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Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground lamb
  • 2 tsp minced ginger
  • 2 tsp minced garlic
  • Finely chopped small onion
  • ½ cup chopped cilantro
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 2 chopped green chilies optional
  • salt to taste
  • Oil for basting
  • Ice cold water

Instructions
 

  • In a mixing bowl mix the massage the ground lamb with your hands for a few minutes.
  • In a food processor place the onion and chilies and pulse.Add all the ingredients into the lamb and mix well.
  • Take chilled water in a bowl,wet your hands. Take a small mixture and roll on the skewers for an elongated shape. Repeat with the rest.
  • In a foiled lined baking sheet arrange the skewers and bast with oil.
  • Grill on medium for about 10 minutes before rotating the skewers for another 5-10 mins until all golden.
  • Serve with lemon wedges and thinly sliced onion rounds.

Check out some amazing holiday recipes ideas to be paired with Gallo Family Vineyards’ wines from our Sunday Supper tastemakers!They’re also featured on Gallo Family’s website.

Appetizers:

Main Dish:

Desserts and Sweets:

Plus don’t miss the Seasonal Wine Pairing Tips by Sunday Supper Movement
Gallo Family

Gallo Family is also committed to sincere causes. And you can join in the effort too. For the sixth year in a row, Gallo Family Vineyards invites Americans to help end senior hunger and isolation with their annual Every Cork Counts™ program. They’re donating $1 for every cork submitted through their website or snail mail. All you have to do is snap a picture, or send their corks!

You can also follow Gallo Family Vineyards on social media:

http://www.facebook.com/GalloFamilyVineyards

http://www.twitter.com/GalloFamily

http://www.instagram.com/GalloFamily

http://www.youtube.com/GalloFamilyVineyards

Join the #SundaySupper conversation on twitter on Sunday! We tweet throughout the day and share recipes from all over the world. Our weekly chat starts at 7:00 pm ET. Follow the #SundaySupper hashtag and remember to include it in your tweets to join in the chat. To get more great Sunday Supper Recipes, visit our website or check out our Pinterest board.

SundaySupper

 

 

 

 

 

Would you like to join the Sunday Supper Movement? It’s easy. You can sign up by clicking here: Sunday Supper Movement.

Disclosure-Compensation was provided by Gallo Family Vineyards via Sunday Supper, LLC. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author, and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Gallo Family Vineyards.

 

Thai Spiced Chicken Meatballs with Peanut Sauce #GalloFamily #SundaySupper

12 | 07 | 2015
By Soni Sinha

Summer is the time to be outdoors!Glorious days with gleaming sunshine, the perfect excuse to go for a hike, a trip to the beach or a picnic.Add some good food and wine to the mix and its a party!Talking of picnics and July being the ‘National picnic month’ we’re partnering with Gallo Family Vineyards in pairing some delectable picnic recipes with their amazing selection of wines that also come in mini bottles!

Thai Spiced Chicken Meatballs with Peanut Sauce

I adore picnics. Especially in this day and age when digital screens have sabotaged our lives, it’s a great way to enjoy outdoors and appreciate nature in all its glory. We’re blessed to have some lovely picnic areas in our vicinity. Our favorite though is our community park that has a beautiful picnic area overlooking the lake with ample amount of picnic tables and bbq pits. Kids look forward to playing their favorite games while packing their favorite sports equipment and I’m totally focused on the food to pack. We’re big on flavor and spice over here and I love a nice mix of vegetarian/meat appetizers along with cold salads, sandwiches, fruits, dessert and drinks for our picnic. We typically go as a group with our friends and divide the menu. Nothing like a beautiful day spent in the sun sipping your favorite drink, enjoying the food, fun, games and laughter with friends.

Thai Spiced Chicken Meatballs with Peanut Sauce 1

When it comes to the drinks menu, wine ranks high on my list!I’ve enjoyed Gallo Family Vineyards’ Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Grigio for years but when they sent me these cute little mini bottles of Pink Moscato I was thrilled!How convenient!Its the perfect little size to carry to any outdoor event and I’m sure the wine lovers are with me on this one!I had an option to choose from their selection of Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Moscato, Pinot Grigio, Pink Moscato, Pinot Noir, Red Moscato or White Zinfandel and I chose the fruity Pink Moscato since it pairs well with Spicy food.

Peanut/Satay Sauce

Thai food is in high demand in my family and it’s served on our table almost every week.Like these Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps or my Thai Red Curry Chicken!For our event I decided to make these amazing Thai Spiced Chicken Meatballs that my kids love with a luscious Peanut Sauce!The meatballs have the earthy flavors from the lemongrass, galangal and spices like cumin and coriander in the red curry paste.My kids even help me shape the meatballs.So much fun!The meatballs taste delicious and its always a great way to get kids to enjoy different flavors.The smooth peanut sauce rich with peanut butter and coconut milk has a subtle hint of the spices from the red curry paste and just the right amount of sweetness .The meatballs dunked in the sauce is a harmonious blend of flavors in your mouth with the spicy, sweet and sour all coming together.

Thai Spiced Chicken Meatballs with Peanut Sauce 3

Gallo Family Vineyards’ Pink Moscato or the White Zinfandel would complement these meatballs beautifully.The Pink Moscato has lovely aroma of citrus and peach with hints of fresh red berries and orange blossoms on the palate.Its refreshing on these hot summer days and has a remarkable balance overall.Sweet and fruity with a light pink color, it’s the perfect light bodied drink with your lunch and pairs well with spicy foods or even desserts!Enjoy!

Thai Spiced Chicken Meatballs with Peanut Sauce 1

Thai Spiced Chicken Meatballs with Peanut Sauce #GalloFamily #SundaySupper

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

For the meatballs

  • Ground Chicken-1 lb
  • 1 ½ tbsp red curry paste
  • Cilantro-2-3 tbsp chopped
  • Bread Crumbs-1/2 cup
  • Salt-to taste
  • Oil

Peanut sauce

  • 1 can unsweetened coconut milk
  • 1-2 tbsp red curry paste
  • ¾ cup peanut butter
  • ½ cup of sugar
  • salt to taste
  • ¼ cup water

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
  • In a mixing bowl mix the meatball ingredients and form into round balls.
  • Place the meatballs on a foil lined baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes or until all cooked and slightly golden.

Peanut sauce

  • In a pot place all the ingredients and bring to a gentle boil whisking continuously.Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes.Allow to cool before emptying in a jar or a box.

Here are some amazing picnic recipes from our Sunday Supper members!

Picnic Appetizers:

Picnic Main Dishes:

Picnic Salads and Sides:

Picnic Sweets and Desserts:

These recipes are also featured on Gallo Family Vineyards’ website.

To find out if Gallo Family Wines are available in your area click here.For more information on Gallo Family Wines visit their website.
Follow Gallo Family Vineyards on social media:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GalloFamilyVineyards
Twitter: https://twitter.com/GalloFamily
Instagram: http://instagram.com/gallofamily
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/gallofamilyvineyards

Gallo Family Vineyards

Join the #SundaySupper conversation on twitter on Sunday! We tweet throughout the day and share recipes from all over the world. Our weekly chat starts at 7:00 pm ET. Follow the #SundaySupper hashtag and remember to include it in your tweets to join in the chat. To get more great Sunday Supper Recipes, visit our website or check out our Pinterest board.

SundaySupper

Would you like to join the Sunday Supper Movement? It’s easy. You can sign up by clicking here: Sunday Supper Movement.

Disclosure: Compensation was provided by Gallo Family Vineyards via Sunday Supper, LLC. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author, and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Gallo Family Vineyards.

Chicken Meatball Chipotle Chili #Chili Cookoff #SundaySupper

23 | 02 | 2014
By Soni Sinha

Have you ever taken part in a cook off?Well I’ve never done it and I’m so excited to be participating in my first ever cook off thanks to our Sunday Supper group!The theme couldn’t have been better.You guessed it right!Its a Chili cook-off and you will be choosing your favorite chili amongst all the mouth watering entries.I have to tell you that if you’re a Chili lover then look no further because my Chicken Meatball Chipotle Chili is the BEST of the best!Wait till you try it.

Chicken meatball chipotle chili

Its out of this world and the flavor involves a certain “Chipotle in Adobo Sauce”!Now if you haven’t tried this thing yet, I have to tell you that you’re missing something in your life.I first saw the chefs on Food Network use it and was mesmerised.Its only when I tried it that I realised what an amazing ingredient it is.Its my most favorite pantry item and I just love its smoky flavor.Its just what makes this chili so so special and kicks it up a notch.

Chicken meatball chipotle chili 2

To that, add some Chicken meatballs, Kidney beans combined with some cumin and tomatoes and you have one deliciously satisfying meal that’s healthy and super easy too!All you have to do then is to top it up with some sour cream and cilantro before serving to give it that wow factor!The hubs finished a big bowlful no time!You will too.Enjoy.

Chicken meatball chipotle chili

Chicken Meatball Chipotle Chili

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs

  • Ground Chicken-1 lb
  • Egg-1
  • 2 Slices of bread-to make fresh crumbs in the food processor
  • Garlic powder-1/2 tsp
  • Salt and pepper

For the Chili

  • Large Red Onion-1 chopped
  • 2 Garlic Cloves-crushed
  • Chipotle in Adobo Sauce-2 chopped
  • Ground Cumin-1 tsp
  • Dried Oregano-2 tsp
  • Kidney Beans-1 15oz can
  • Crushed or diced Tomatoes-1 15 oz can
  • Chicken Stock-1 cup
  • Red Pepper-1 large cubed
  • Salt and Pepper
  • Oil-2-3 tbsp
  • Sour Cream
  • Cilantro

Instructions
 

  • In a food processor place 2 slices of bread and pulse until crumbly.Keep aside.
  • In a mixing bowl mix all the meatball ingredients and make round balls.
  • In a deep pot heat 2 tbsp of oil and shallow fry the meatballs until golden.Transfer onto a tray.
  • In the same pot add a tsp of oil and add the onions.
  • Saute until translucent and add the garlic.
  • Add the Chipotle,ground cumin and oregano.Stir to mix.
  • Saute for half a minute and add the kidney beans.
  • Follow it with the tomatoes and stock.
  • Mix well and add the meatballs.Bring to a boil, reduce the heat and cook for about 10 minutes.
  • Add the red pepper and continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes.Check the seasonings.
  • Turn off the heat.
  • To serve take some chili in a bowl, top it with some sour cream and cilantro.
  • Enjoy!

My friend the lovely Heather from Girlichef is hosting this fun event.Will YOU be a part of the #SundaySupper Chili Cook-Off judges panel this week? Voting is live at the Sunday Supper Movement Online Community Magazine starting now and concluding (fittingly) on February 27 – National Chili Day! Browse the submissions and cast your vote by clicking HERE!

Beef and Bison Chili

Pork Chili

Chicken, Duck, and Turkey Chili

Mixed (meat combo) Chili

Fish and Seafood Chili

Vegetarian Chili

Twist-on-Chili

Best Wines To Pair with Chili #SundaySupper from ENOFYLZ Wine Blog

Sunday Supper MovementJoin the #SundaySupper conversation on twitter on Sunday! We tweet throughout the day and share recipes from all over the world. Our weekly chat starts at 7:00 pm ET. Follow the #SundaySupper hashtag and remember to include it in your tweets to join in the chat. Check out our #SundaySupper Pinterest board for more fabulous recipes and food photos.

Would you like to join the Sunday Supper Movement? It’s easy. You can sign up by clicking here: Sunday Supper Movement.