Soni's Food

Indian Inspiration!

Roasted Red Pepper Dip with Mint

22 | 08 | 2015
By Soni Sinha

We’re all constantly on the look out for easy crowd pleasing recipes.I’ve always believed that appetizers are the star of a party.Don’t we all just love to nibble on them while sipping our favorite drink and enjoying a conversation? I like a good spread of appetizers when I entertain and love experimenting with different flavors for my next party.The recipe I have for you today came about as a result of some mint waiting to be used and I saw the perfect opportunity to use them when I spotted a jar of roasted red peppers sitting forlornly in my pantry.A dip combining the two sounded very appetizing and I was on my task.

Roasted Red Pepper Dip with Mint 3

Dips are always popular and can be whipped-up in no time even if you have unexpected guests.They taste delicious and can be quite addictive.You can get creative by adding nuts, cream cheese or mayonnaise, spices etc to flavor your dips and it’s always a hit with kids and adults.

Roasted Red Pepper Dip with Mint

This dip has a vibrant red color and a slight kick from the cayenne.I’ve used walnuts for some body and texture and of course the mint flavors it to perfection.The result is a smoky,peppery, nutty dip just waiting to be devoured.Serve it with crudités, pita or any chips of your choice.Enjoy!

Roasted Red Pepper Dip with Mint

Roasted Red Pepper Dip with Mint

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Ingredients
  

  • 7 ounce jar of Roasted Red Pepper-Drained and diced
  • 1 Garlic
  • Ground Cumin-1/2 tsp
  • ¼ cup walnuts
  • Mint-1/4 cup
  • Extra virgin olive oil-1 tbsp
  • Cayenne pepper- 1/4 tsp
  • Salt

Instructions
 

  • In a pan toast the walnuts on medium heat until slightly golden and aromatic.
  • In a food processor add all the ingredients and blend until smooth.
  • Serve with your favorite chips.

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

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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.

Indian Spiced Potato Pastry Shells #idahopotato #SundaySupper

28 | 06 | 2015
By Soni Sinha

If there’s one vegetable that’s used extensively in all cuisines it has to be the humble potato. It is the fourth largest grown crop in the world after rice, wheat and maize.Who doesn’t love potatoes!The smell of a fried or roasted potato alone can trigger hunger pangs in anyone.Its America’s favorite vegetable and an average American eats about 110 pounds of potatoes each year!

Did you also know that Potatoes have a higher Potassium and Vitamin C content than bananas!

Surprised?I was too.

Indian Spiced Potato Pastry Shells

The one name that’s synonymous with potatoes in America is Idaho® potatoes.The reason being they are simply the best and America’s favorite.Idaho’s rich volcanic soil, warm days, cool nights and clean water from the Idaho mountains gives their potatoes a unique texture and taste.Unlike potatoes from other states that are grown seasonally, Idaho® potatoes are available all year round.They come in different varieties like the ever popular Russet,Red,Fingerling and Gold.Idaho® potatoes were kind enough to send me their gorgeous Russet and Fingerling potatoes that were absolutely delicious.The potatoes have a lovely buttery flavor and my family has enjoyed them roasted,mashed,in my curries and stir fry’s!

Indian Spiced Potato Pastry Shells fillingIndian cuisine has had a long love affair with potatoes.Right from mouth watering appetizers like chaat, samosas, tikkis (cakes) to vegetarian/meat curries and rice dishes like Biryani and Pilaf, the list goes on.As a result I’ve grown up enjoying potatoes in their myriad forms and use them obsessively in my cooking like my Potato and Asparagus or Indian Smashed Potatoes. If you’re a potato lover like me, then you’re going to love my recipe today.

Indian Spiced Potato Pastry Shells 8

My Indian Spiced Potato Pastry Shells are the perfect appetizer for your parties.I’ve tried to keep the recipe pretty simple with an Indian twist using ingredients that are easily available at your grocery store.I’ve used the lovely Russet Potatoes and they were perfect for this recipe.The potatoes are flavored with nutty cumin and a mix of earthy spices in the garam masala.I’ve added jalapeños for some heat and roasted peanuts for texture and crunch. The result is a piquant filling that can be quite addictive and you might want to make a big batch of these :).

Indian Spiced Potato Pastry Shells 9

As you bite into it, you first taste the flaky pastry before being engulfed with the deliciousness of the potato filling quite similar to a samosa.Its phenomenal.The filling can be made ahead and heated just before serving. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to make and looks cute too!Just drop a few spoonfuls into each shell and you’re good to go.Serve these along with some Thai Sweet Chili sauce or tamarind chutney (if you’re lucky to have an Indian grocery near you) and watch these disappear in no time.Enjoy!

Indian Spiced Potato Pastry Shells

Indian Spiced Potato Pastry Shells #idahopotato #SundaySupper

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Ingredients
  

  • Frozen Puff Pastry Shells/Cups-1 pack
  • 3 large Idaho® potatoes
  • Cumin seeds- 1 tsp
  • ½ inch Ginger crushed
  • Jalapeño-1 seeded and diced
  • Ground Coriander-1 tsp
  • Garam Masala-1 tsp
  • Roasted peanuts-2 tbsp
  • Salt- to taste
  • Oil-2 tbsp

Instructions
 

  • Bake the Puff Pastry Cups according to the instructions.
  • Fill a pot with enough water to cover the potatoes.Bring to a boil.
  • Cover the pot,lower the heat and let it cook for about 15-20 mins or until the potatoes are cooked.
  • Once cooled, peel the potatoes and mash it slightly with a fork or a potato masher.
  • Heat oil in a pan.
  • Add the cumin seeds and once they start to splutter lower the heat and add the ginger and jalapeño.
  • Add the garam masala, ground coriander and the peanuts. Saute for a minute.
  • Add the mashed potatoes, salt and mix well.Check the seasonings.
  • When ready to serve add about a 2 tbsp of the filling in each shell and serve with your favorite sweet condiment.

Check out some other great recipe ideas from our Sunday Supper bloggers and get inspired!

For more information about Idaho® potatoes visit their website : http://idahopotato.com

Follow them on social media via:
Twitter: http://twitter.com/idahopotato
Facebook: http://facebook.com/famousidahopotatoes
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/idahopotato
Instagram: http://instagram.com/idahopotatoes

FINAL TM LOGO

Please check out our Potato Pinterest board https://www.pinterest.com/thesundaysupper/potato-recipes-featuring-famous-idaho-potatoes/for more scrumptious recipe ideas using Idaho® potatoes!

Sunday Supper Movement

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.

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

Disclosure-This post is sponsored by the Idaho Potato Commission in conjunction with a social media campaign through Sunday Supper LLC. All opinions are my own.

 

Indian Spiced Cabbage Mushroom Wonton Bites

27 | 05 | 2015
By Soni Sinha

Summer is finally here and its time for bbq and summer parties galore.While grilling is the main charm of summer parties, easy and convenient food ideas are always welcome when you have people over.I had some wonton wrappers in my freezer and decided to use them in an Indian Inspired appetizer that came out delicious!My Cabbage Mushroom Wonton Bites are a great way to enjoy Indian flavors and they look pretty too!

Indian Spiced Cabbage Mushroom Wonton Bites

I love the convenience of shredded green cabbage sold at Trader Joe’s and use it all the time.Its such a life saver when you’re pressed for time especially in the weeknights.This recipe calls for some onions, ginger , spices like ground coriander and garam masala that’s an essential element in any North Indian dish.The cabbage and mushrooms are then added into the mix and get coated in the aromatics. The result is a delicious filling ready to go into the Wonton wrappers.

Indian Spiced Cabbage Mushroom Wonton Bites 1

The wonton wrappers are placed onto a mini muffin tin and baked for just a few minutes until slightly golden and crispy.Once slightly cooled they’re ready to be filled with the cabbage and mushroom mixture and served with your favorite condiment.Enjoy!

Indian Spiced Cabbage Mushroom Wonton Bites 3

 

Indian Spiced Cabbage Mushroom Wonton Bites

Indian Spiced Cabbage Mushroom Wonton Bites

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Ingredients
  

  • Wonton Wrappers-15-18

Filling

  • Shredded Green Cabbage-2-3 cups
  • Sliced Baby Bella Mushrooms-2 cups
  • Onion- 1 sliced
  • Crushed Ginger-1 tsp
  • Ground Coriander-1 tsp
  • Garam Masala-1 tsp
  • Salt-to taste
  • Oil-2 tbsp

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 375 degrees
  • Brush the wontons with a little oil on both sides and press each wrapper into the tin so it looks like a cup and the sides will stick out.
  • Bake for 8-10 minutes until golden.

For the filling

  • In the meantime heat oil in a pan and add the onions.
  • Saute for about 2 minutes and add the ginger.
  • Mix well and add the spices. Saute for about a minute until you smell the spices.Add the mushrooms and saute until golden followed by the cabbage.
  • Add salt, mix well and cook covered for about 7-8 minutes on medium low heat.
  • Allow to cool slightly before filling the wonton cups with this mixture.

 

 

 

 

Harissa Mint Chicken Kebabs

24 | 01 | 2015
By Soni Sinha

Harissa has long captivated me.I’d never heard of it until a few months ago when all of a sudden everywhere I looked people were making Harissa and cooking tons of recipes using Harissa.Just looking at those pics,I fell in love with the vibrant red color of the paste and the flavors seemed right up my alley since I love chilies in any form. As I walked past the aisles in our local Sur La Table the other day, I was overjoyed when I spotted a jar of Harissa sitting right there!I immediately picked it up and couldn’t wait to get home and try it!I was amazed at the flavor explosion in my mouth,right from the smoky,tangy to the heat from the chilies and the garlic not to mention the beautiful vibrant red color!Its my new favorite condiment these days and I couldn’t wait to create something amazing with it.

Harissa Mint Chicken Kebabs

For those of you who haven’t heard of Harissa before, its a Tunisian condiment made from serrano peppers,hot chili peppers,roasted red peppers,garlic,coriander or caraway seeds along with olive or vegetable oil for preservation and it is available in some speciality stores.It can be used to flavor a ton of recipes including couscous, a stew, as a rub over your favorite meat or fish, in a dip and so on..

Harissa Mint Chicken Kebabs 1

With eyes on the Superbowl, I thought that a great way to use this would be in some moist juicy Chicken kebabs that would also make an easy appetizer to feed a crowd.I started off by mixing the harissa with some yoghurt as I would in a Tandoori and added some fresh mint, some ginger-garlic paste and some cumin.The chicken tenders were then left to marinade for a good few hours and then placed onto skewers to be grilled on the stove top.The flavors from the Harissa just comes through and the mint complements it beautifully.They came out absolutely delicious and a good squeeze of fresh lemon juice just completed the dish.Enjoy it for your game day or any other day!

Harissa Mint Chicken Kebabs

Harissa Mint Chicken Kebabs

Harissa Mint Chicken Kebabs

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Ingredients
  

  • Chicken Tenders-1 pck about 1 1/4 lbcubed

Marinade

  • Greek yoghurt-2 tbsp
  • Harissa paste-2-3 tbsp
  • Crushed Ginger-1 tsp
  • Crushed Garlic- 1 tsp
  • Ground Cumin-1 tsp
  • Salt- to taste
  • Oil-1 tbsp
  • Fresh mint-1 few sprigs chopped

Garnish

  • Freshly squeezed juice of a lemon all over

Instructions
 

  • In a deep bowl assemble all the ingredients to marinade and mix the chicken tenders.
  • Let it sit in the fridge for about 5-6 hours.Place the chicken pieces onto skewers.
  • In a gridldle pan heat some oil.
  • Once the griddle is really hot, place the skewers and let it cook and develop a lovely golden color on one side (apprx 5-6 mnutes) and then gently flip over using a spatula to loosen the pieces if stuck.
  • Cook on the other side for apprx same time until fully cooked.
  • Arrange on a tray and squeeze some lemon juice all over.
  • Enjoy!