Soni's Food

Indian Inspiration!

Chicken Shami Kebab #SundaySupper

12 | 01 | 2014
By Soni Sinha

Happy Second Birthday Sunday Supper!Its hard to believe that it’s been two years since Sunday Supper began.I’m so inspired by all our talented chefs,cooks,writers,moms who’ve been a part of our Sunday Supper group and learn from them all the time.We’re growing each day and its just great fun to get together and cook for our families.Thanks to Isabel for creating this diverse group and carrying this movement forward.

Chicken Shami Kebab

I joined Sunday Supper in May 2012 with this recipe and it has been an amazing journey.There have been many memorable moments but one stands out clearly and that was during Hurricane Sandy when we all came together and dedicated our posts to the people affected by it.Our neighborhood was also affected although not as badly as the coastal areas of New Jersey, but in our own way our Sunday Supper group raised awareness and asked people to donate to the organizations that were helping in the rescue efforts.This shows the other side of our group where we don’t just talk about food but also help,support and care for our communities.

Chicken Shami Kebab 1

I’m sharing with you an all time favorite recipe to honor this occasion.I’m extremely fortunate to have grown-up in a family where special delicacies like these were a regular feature.Thanks to my Dad, I ate home cooked Biryani almost every Sunday and Kebabs like these were served when my parents entertained (which again was pretty often).

Chicken Shami Kebab

Shami Kebab is indigenous to the city of Nawabs-Lucknow in the state of Uttar Pradesh in India and was introduced by the Moghuls. Its traditionally made using Ground Goat Meat, but I’ve used Ground Chicken over here.The meat is first boiled with Split Pea Lentils (Chana Dal) along with some whole spices and then ground to make a paste.The paste is then mixed with egg, mint and cilantro and shaped into round patties to be fried until golden.Its definitely a dish for a special occasion and I thought it would be perfect for our celebration!The subtle flavors from the spices,the sweetness of the mint and the smooth texture is what makes this extra special.Its succulent,moist and insanely delicious served alongside some Mint Chutney.Enjoy.

Chicken Shami Kebab

Chicken Shami Kebab #SundaySupper

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Ingredients
  

  • Ground Chicken Thighs-2 lbs
  • Onion-1 medium chopped
  • Garlic Cloves-8-10
  • 2 inch Ginger-chopped
  • Split pea Lentils soaked overnight-1/2 cup
  • Coriander Seeds-2 tsp
  • Cumin Seeds-2 tsp
  • Black Peppercorns-1 tsp
  • Whole Cloves-1 tsp
  • Green Cardamom-5
  • Cinnamon-2 sticks broken in half
  • Salt-to taste
  • Water-1 cup

Additional ingredients

  • Eggs-2
  • Chopped Mint- 1/2 Cup
  • Chopped Cilantro-1/2 Cup
  • Oil for frying

Instructions
 

  • In a large pan heat about 2 tbsp of oil and add the onions and the next 10 ingredients.Bring to a boil.
  • Reduce the heat, cover and cook until the chicken is cooked and the water has evaporated completely.
  • Once ready discard the green cardamom and cinnamon stick.
  • Transfer the mixture into a food processor and blend to make a paste.
  • Empty into a deep mixing bowl and add the additional ingredients.
  • Using your hands make small round patties.
  • Deer fry or shallow fry in batches until golden on both sides.
  • Serve hot with your favorite chutney.
  • Enjoy!

This event is hosted by the lovely Liz from That Skinny Chick can Bake and we’ve got some amazing stories and recipes shared by our group!

Brilliant Breads and Breakfast Fare:

Amazing Appetizers and Cocktails:

Spectacular Soups and Salads:

Enticing Entrees:

Decadent Desserts:

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. 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.

SundaySupper

 

 

Thai Style Grilled Monkfish #SundaySupper #GGHoliday2013

08 | 12 | 2013
By Soni Sinha

Appetizers for me are the star of any party.They’re fun to cook ,bake or grill.The small bites are perfect for munching while you’re engaged in a conversation or enjoying your favorite drink.You could bring the flavors from around the world in your appetizers and get creative.As a result,I place special emphasis on my appetizers when I’m entertaining and they’re always a hit with my guests. I could easily skip the main course and just enjoy the appetizers and desserts any day.

Thai Style Grilled Monkfish 1

I was really excited when Gourmet Garden asked me to create an Easy Holiday Entertaining recipe featuring their herbs and spices.My mind went straight to creating an amazing appetizer.As soon as I spotted the lemongrass,I knew I was going to make a Thai Style Appetizer using their ginger,garlic,lemongrass,basil and cilantro.The ease of the tubes was just what I needed and the marinade was ready in no time!

I chose Monkfish since it holds well under the grill and is quite meaty.I let it marinade for 5-6 hours in the fridge and grill on low for about 8 minutes on each side.The flavors are amazing and it is a great recipe for a crowd not to mention insanely delicious!I loved the flavors of the lemongrass coming through and the spices add their own magic.Its now one of my favorites and I cannot wait to try the same marinade with chicken or even Tofu!

gg-hero_herbs_spices_3

Gourmet Garden sell a wide range of herbs and spices including Basil, Cilantro, Chili Pepper, Dill, Garlic, Ginger, Italian Herbs, Lemon Grass, Parsley and Oregano and can be found in the fresh produce section (next to the fresh herbs) of your local supermarket.They typically last for up to 3 months in the fridge.They are used like fresh herbs in a one-to-one ratio, but can be used in place of dried typically in a 2 to 1 ratio (2 tbsp GG Ginger equals 1 tbsp dried ginger).

I think they’re great for entertaining since the prep work is already done for you and they’re such a time saver.

Thai Style Grilled Monkfish 2

 

Thai Style Grilled Monkfish #SundaySupper #GGHoliday2013

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Ingredients
  

  • Monkfish-8-10 pieces

Marinade

  • Gourmet Garden Chunky Garlic-1 tbsp
  • Gourmet Garden Ginger-1 tbsp
  • Gourmet Garden Lemongrass-3 tbsp
  • Gourmet Garden Basil-2 tbsp
  • Gourmet Garden Cilantro-2 tbsp
  • Ground Cumin-2 tsp
  • Ground Coriander-2 tsp
  • Oil
  • Salt-to taste

Instructions
 

  • Mix all the marinade ingredients in a mixing bowl or a ziplock bag.
  • Add the monkfish.MIx well.
  • Let it marinade in the fridge for about 6-7 hours.
  • On a foil lined oiled baking sheet place the monkfish.
  • Drizzle some oil all over and broil on low for about 8 minutes on each side or until cooked with golden grill marks.
  • Serve hot.

For more ideas using Gourmet Garden herbs and spices check out these amazing recipes by our Sunday Supper group!

You can Pin these recipes from our Easy Holiday Entertaining Pinterest Board and sign-up to receive Gourmet Garden Newsletter  and download a coupon on their website Gourmet Garden . Follow Gourmet Garden on Twitter, Facebook or Pinterest.

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. 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.

Disclaimer-This post is sponsored by Gourmet Garden  Herbs & Spices. All opinions are my own.

Butternut Squash and Couscous Patties-Indian Inspired #Squashin’ Winter #SundaySupper

17 | 11 | 2013
By Soni Sinha

Yeah you heard it right.We’re squashin’ Winter by bringing some of our favorite Squash recipes for you today.

Do you like Squash?Do you often use it in your recipes?I would really love to use it more in my cooking but I always end up roasting it or making a soup.When I heard the theme for our Sunday Supper, I decided to make something that’s not the first thing that comes to your mind when you’re thinking Butternut Squash, like these Patties that have been given an Indian Inspired makeover that tickles your tastebuds with layers of delicious flavors in every bite.

Butternut Squash and Couscous Patties 1

I  had some leftover cooked Couscous from my Couscous Tabbouleh that I made over the weekend and I decided to use some of the couscous in my patties to give it some body and also make it easier to handle.I was a bit apprehensive at first, but I went ahead and used it only to realize that it wasn’t a bad idea after all.

The inspiration for these patties is the Indian Aloo Tikki that’s a favorite street food in Northern India.I’ve made another version of the Aloo Tikki using Quinoa over here.The char marks you see is what gives these patties a unique smoky flavor combined with the sweetness of the Squash.The ginger and the spices add tons of flavor and the icing on the cake is definitely the chat masala that’s an essential component in any Tikki.You can easily find them in any Indian store.

Butternut Squash and Couscous Patties 4

The patties use a little bit of couscous, so you can taste the butternut squash in all its glory.The one thing you really HAVE to do is to let the liquid drain from the squash.I typically leave it in a colander for sometime.Once you’re past that step you can add the rest of the ingredients.Its a great way of enjoying Butternut Squash and you can serve it as an appetizer or as a side dish along with your favorite condiment or my mint chutney this Thanksgiving.Enjoy!

Butternut Squash and Couscous Patties 5

Butternut Squash and Couscous Patties 1

Butternut Squash and Couscous Patties-Indian Inspired #Squashin’ Winter #SundaySupper

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Ingredients
  

  • Peeled and Cubed Butternut Squash-1 lb
  • Couscous-1/2 cup
  • Water-1 cup
  • Fresh Ginger crushed-1 tbsp
  • Ground Cumin-1 tbsp
  • Ground Coriander-1 tbsp
  • Garam Masala-1 tbsp
  • Fresh Coriander chopped-1 cup
  • Salt- to taste
  • Oil- to pan fry
  • Chat Masala-to sprinkle

Instructions
 

  • Boil the cubed Butternut Squash in some water for about 10-15 until all cooked.Mash it and keep aside.
  • Bring a cup of water to a boil and add the couscous.Mix well, cover with a lid and switch off the heat.Let it sit for about two minutes.Fluff it with a fork.
  • Mix a cup of cooked couscous into the squash along with the ginger,all the spices and coriander.
  • Add salt.
  • Take a small portion in your hands to make round disks.
  • Heat about 2 tbsp of oil in a non stick pan and swirl the oil all over.Place the patties in a single layer.
  • Keep the heat on medium and let it develop a golden color on one side before flipping and repeat the process for the other side too.
  • Arrange in a tray along with some salad.Sprinkle chat masala all over.Enjoy!

This event is hosted by the lovely Heather from Girlichef and we’ve got some amazing Winter Squash recipes for your Thanksgiving table.

Breakfasts and Breads

Appetizers, Starters, and Condiments

Soups, Sandwiches, and Salads

Main Dishes

Side Dishes

Desserts

Wine Pairing Recommendations for Squashin’ Winter #SundaySupper from Enofylz Wine Blog

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. 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.
 

Spiced Sweet Potato Bites with Kale and Goat’s Cheese

06 | 11 | 2013
By Soni Sinha

You know when you’re out for your groceries and you tend to pick up a few items just randomly.Well I did just that .In fact I do just that all the time.

You do too?

That makes me feel so much better.

Spiced Sweet Potato Bites with Kale and Goat's Cheese 1.jpg

And imagine your excitement, when you incorporate all those items in your dish and it turns out to be a success!

Well, I had my AHA moment over the weekend in my kitchen trying to use three ingredients that I bought,namely some Sweet Potatoes,Kale and Goat’s Cheese.

Sweet Potato Bites with Kale and Goat's Cheese 3

I’d initially planned on making some Sweet Potato fries,but then,I also had to use the other two ingredients in some way.I found the perfect solution in the way of these bites, where in I could incorporate all three and besides,who could resist such a healthy starter?

I peeled up my Sweet Potatoes and sliced them at an angle.That’s probably the only tricky part in this recipe and if you’re not very comfortable using your knife just slice it normally in rounds or long slices.Once they’re sliced all you do is coat them with the spices and bake them in the oven.

Spiced Sweet Potato Bites with Kale and Goat's Cheese 2.jpg

Its that easy.

The Kale is then sautéed along with some garlic and olive oil and makes the perfect topping for these bites.A layer of Goat’s cheese goes next and I’ve used Chevre with Honey that gives a perfect sweet balance to the dish.The Cumin and Cayenne add that spicy heat element to my Sweet Potatoes that I love.The Kale is a nice contrast texture, color and flavor-wise and also makes this appetizer super healthy.Its bursting with flavor and I couldn’t stop eating them once they were ready!So so good!You have to try it to believe.

Spiced Sweet Potato Bites with Kale and Goat's Cheese.jpg

 

Spiced Sweet Potato Bites with Kale and Goat's Cheese

Spiced Sweet Potato Bites with Kale and Goat’s Cheese

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Ingredients
  

  • Chevre with Honey-1/4 log
  • Sweet Potatoes-3 sliced at an angle
  • Ground Cumin-2 tbsp
  • Cayenne or Red chili Powder-1/2 tsp
  • Salt- to taste
  • Olive Oil-2 tbsp

For the Kale

  • Fresh Kale leaves chopped-3 cups
  • Crushed Garlic- 1 clove
  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil-1 tbsp
  • Salt- to taste

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.
  • Mix all the spices and coat the sliced Sweet Potatoes on both sides.
  • On a foil lined oiled baking sheet, arrange the Sweet Potatoes in a single layer.Drizzle Olive Oil all over on both sides.
  • Bake for about 20-25 minutes until you see them turning slightly golden.
  • Turn off the oven.Arrange them in a tray using tongs.
  • Meanwhile in a pan heat the olive oil.Add the crushed garlic followed by Kale.Add a little salt and cook just until they've wilted just a little.
  • Empty in a bowl and keep aside.

To assemble

  • Top about a tbsp of Kale on top of each Sweet Potato bite followed by some roughly crumbled Goat's Cheese.Enjoy!

 

 

 

 

Mozzarella Eyeballs for Halloween!

20 | 10 | 2013
By Soni Sinha

Today I’ve got for you these delicious eyeballs made of Mozzarella Balls and Pimento Stuffed Olives.These are served on some Homemade Marinara Sauce for a tasty appetizer for Halloween.The inspiration came from here and I thought it was a great way to serve mozzarella balls and much more fun for the kids too!I used Pimento stuffed olives and used my 1/4 tsp stainless steel measuring spoon to scoop a small portion of the mozzarella balls just enough to fit the olives.

Mozzarella Eyeballs 1

I served these eyeballs with my home made marinara sauce that’s a weekly staple in my house.Its super easy,has tons of flavor and makes my life much easier.I typically make a jar of this sauce and keep it in my refrigerator to be used all week for our meals, kids lunches,soups etc etc.Way better than the store bought stuff any day.

Mozzarella Eyeballs

 

Mozzarella Eyeballs for Halloween!

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Ingredients
  

For the Mozzarella Eyeballs

  • Small Fresh Mozzarella Balls-15
  • Pimento Stuffed Olives-8
  • Measuring spoon
  • Marinara Sauce-1 cup

Homemade Marinara Sauce

  • Onion-1 large chopped
  • Garlic-3 Cloves crushed
  • Carrot-2 peeled and chopped
  • Celery-2 stalks chopped
  • 28 oz can of Crushed Tomatoes
  • Dried Oregano-2 tsp
  • Salt-to taste
  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil-3 Tbsp

Instructions
 

Marinara Sauce

  • In a pot heat the olive oil and add the onions.Saute until transparent.
  • Add garlic,salt and pepper.
  • Add the veggies and saute for about a minute.
  • Add the crushed tomatoes,oregano,salt and bring to a boil.
  • Reduce the heat,cover and cook until veggies are tender.
  • Add a little water if too thick.Check the seasonings.
  • Puree the sauce in a blender once its cool.
  • Transfer into a jar to be used in your pasta,soups etc.It stays good for upto a week.

Mozzarella Eyeballs

  • Using a 1/4 tsp measuring spoon scoop out the top part of the mozzarella balls and and slice a little bit from the bottom to make it stand.
  • Slice each pimento stuffed olive into half and insert each half into the mozzarella balls to resemble eyeballs.Press with your hand.
  • Spread the marinara sauce at the bottom of your serving plate and arrange the eyeballs over it.Enjoy.