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

 

 

Aloo Gobi for #Diwali

02 | 11 | 2013
By Soni Sinha

This Sunday,Hindus,Jains and Sikhs all over the world will be celebrating Diwali the festival of lights.Its a celebration of the triumph of good over evil and is marked by lighting up our homes with lots of Diyas (earthen lamps),Lanterns,Candles and colorful lights.Back home,in the evening fireworks light up the skies and people cannot get enough of burning fire crackers in their yards! Families get together to celebrate and enjoy with sweet and savory delicacies.Its the biggest festival in the Hindu Calendar and preparations start days in advance.For us though, the celebration this year is subdued without my Dad, but I know he’s smiling down and giving us his blessings.Miss him.

Aloo Gobi

In my family there’s always been a set menu for Diwali consisting of a few dishes that Mom makes every year.I try to cook some of them over here, just to connect with that fervor back home. Aloo Gobi is one such dish that’s a firm favorite around any festival in my house and also one of my most favorite vegetable dishes of all time.It has bold North Indian flavors going on and its a family recipe that you won’t find on the menu in any Indian restaurant.The taste is unbelievable.I love the flavor of Cauliflower and the Potatoes when they’re shallow fried in a little oil just to get those golden edges all around before adding them into the sauce.This process gives this dish a unique flavor and transforms it into something special.

The sauce consists of onions,garlic,ginger along with some spices that includes Black Cardamom (Badi Illaichi).

Aloo Gobi Curry 1

Black Cardamom is easily available at your Indian grocer and unlike Green Cardamom it cannot be used in desserts.It has this dense smoky flavor and a little goes a long way. You put the whole thing into your food processor along with the rest to make a paste.That becomes the base for your sauce.The mixture is then added into the wok and cooked with some spices before adding the cauliflower and potatoes.This is a dish meant for special occasions and comes out great every single time.Enjoy with some warm Naan bread ,Rotis or my Vegetable Pulao.

Here’s Wishing all my readers a Very Happy Diwali glowing with Peace,Joy and Prosperity!

Diwali

 

Aloo Gobi

Aloo Gobi

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Ingredients
  

  • Potatoes-2
  • Cauliflower Florets-2 cups
  • Bay Leaf-1
  • Medium Onion-1
  • Garlic Cloves-4-5
  • Ginger-1 inch
  • Cumin Seeds-1 tsp
  • Black Cardamom-1
  • Cinnamon-1/2 inch
  • Tomato-1 medium chopped fine
  • Ground Coriander-1 tbsp
  • Ground Cumin-1 1/2 tsp
  • Red Chili Powder or paprika-1 tsp
  • Turmeric-1 tsp
  • Salt- to taste
  • Oil-5-6 tbsp
  • Water-1 1/2 cups

Instructions
 

  • Peel and cube the potatoes into about 2 inch cubes.
  • In a food processor add the onions,garlic,ginger,cumin, cardamom and cinnamon.Add a little water to make a paste.Puree until smooth.Keep aside.
  • In a wok or a skillet heat 2-3 tbsp of oil on high and add the potatoes and cauliflower.
  • Add some salt and turmeric and saute until you see them turn slightly golden about 3-4 minutes on high.
  • Empty on a plate.
  • In the same wok add 3 tbsp of oil and add a bay leaf and the pureed onion mixture.
  • Saute the mixture on medium until the raw onion smell disappears.
  • Add the chili,coriander,cumin,turmeric and some salt and continue to saute until aromatic.
  • Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until oil separates.Add the cauliflower and potatoes.
  • Mix well and saute for about 2 minutes.
  • Add the water, bring to a boil.Lower the heat,cover with a lid and cook until potatoes are tender and cauliflower is cooked.Make sure that the cauliflower is not over cooked and still has a bite to it.
  • Check the seasonings.
  • Serve hot with naan, rotis,puris or rice!

 

 

 

 

Pumpkin Bread Pudding

14 | 10 | 2013
By Soni Sinha

I’m trying to immerse myself in my kitchen and as I try and regain my strength, I’m sharing with you this old post, my Pumpkin Bread Pudding that was written when Papa was still alive, days were brighter and the weather was gorgeous.

Pumpkin Bread Pudding 1

The pretty hues of orange,yellow and red is breathtaking and it brings about a new energy in me.I get all excited to start making those lovely dishes that scream autumn.Dishes that use warm spices using the produce in season like Apples,Pumpkins and Sweet Potatoes!Oh the redolence of cinnamon,the orange colored treats,soups, stews and desserts!And that’s what I’ve got for you today, a decadent rich moist Pumpkin Bread Pudding warm from the oven,with the thick custard with warm spices and pumpkin puree,combined with Cinnamon Raisin Bread ready to be devoured.Its everything I associate Autumn with, the orange color,the spices, the pumpkin, the aroma and it’s absolutely delicious!

Pumpkin Bread Pudding 2

Pumpkin Bread Pudding

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Ingredients
  

  • Cinnamon Raisin Bread-1 loaf cut into cubes
  • Pumpkin Puree -1 15oz can
  • Eggs-3
  • Whole Milk-3 cups
  • Packed Brown Sugar-1 cup
  • Pumpkin Pie Spice-2 tsp
  • Vanilla Extract-1 tsp

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 300 degrees.
  • Grease the bottom and sides of an oven proof dish.
  • Mix all the ingredients in a large bowl until well blended.
  • Add the bread cubes and let the mixture sit for 10 minutes.
  • Pour into the dish and bake for about an hour and 15 mins or until a knife inserted in center comes out clean.

Pumpkin Bread Pudding 3

 

 

 

 

 

Almond Flour Apple Crumble #Glutenfree

21 | 08 | 2013
By Soni Sinha

Almond Flour Apple Crumble 1

“The warm afternoon sun

on an autumn day

the breeze,the trees

rustling in the wind

the colorful leaves

falling to the ground

the crunchy piles

the magic of Fall

Almond Flour Apple Crumble 3

I revel in this joy

as I take my spoon

a bite is all I need

to make me swoon

The soft apples

the warm cinnamon

the crumbly topping

warm from the oven

the aroma,the delight

on my daughter’s face

that mama made her favorite”

Yeah that’s right,its my daughter’s favorite dessert!Well, you certainly don’t have to wait for autumn to enjoy this dessert. And if you’re like her you will want this all year round!Apple Crumble is her most requested and I make it frequently.But this time round I used Almond Flour instead of All Purpose Flour in the topping and she still loved it!It makes for a rich buttery nutty topping that I’m really fond of and I really like the flavor.In addition, its rich in protein and anti-oxidants and ideal for baking.So even if you don’t have a Gluten allergy you could still use Almond flour for its health benefits.

Almond Flour Apple Crumble 4

I’ve made them in individual ramekins for easier serving.Serve it with whipped cream ,Greek Yoghurt ,custard or Ice cream to take it to another level!The best part is that its so super easy and you can just eyeball the ingredients.Its one of those desserts that’s literally no work but comforts you like none other.It feels like you’ve really put an effort into it but you know it better ! 🙂

Almond Flour Apple Crumble #Glutenfree

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Ingredients
  

  • 3 Granny Smith Apples- peeled cored and sliced
  • Ground Cinnamon-1 tbsp
  • Brown Sugar-1 tbsp

For the topping

  • Almond Flour-1 cup
  • Chilled butter cubed-2 tbsp
  • Packed Brown Sugar -2 tbsp

Instructions
 

  • Mix the apples,cinnamon and brown sugar and place in individual ramekins.
  • Mix the topping ingredients by hand or in a food processor until crumbly.
  • Cover the apples with the topping and bake in a preheated oven at 375 degrees for 25 minutes until the topping is slightly golden.
  • Serve with whipped cream or ice-cream!

 

 

 

 

Indian Spiced Chicken Drumsticks #SundaySupper

26 | 05 | 2013
By Soni Sinha

The weather has played a dampener this weekend that is so unusual for this time of the year!The kids were looking forward to our pool opening,but the weather Gods had something else in mind, I guess!Our Sunday Super team is definitely unfazed by the weather pattern and we’re here to lift your spirits up with some mouth watering picnic ideas!!

Indian Spiced Chicken Drumsticks 1.jpg

I’ve got my scrumptious Roasted Chicken Drumsticks with a spice blend of Coriander,Fennel,Cumin,Red Chilies,Cinnamon and Cloves that gives it some great flavors.I toasted the spices in a pan until the air in my kitchen was filled with a warm aromatic scent and then transferred the mixture into my spice grinder.You could use this as a spice rub for various meats or fish too!So good!

Indian Spiced Chicken Drumsticks 4

I marinated these overnight and broiled them the next day until all nice and golden on all sides.Drumsticks are the perfect finger foods for a picnic and are adored by adults and kids alike!Pack it with some salad or grill them right in the picnic area if you have the facility and you’ve got  a great picnic dish that couldn’t be any easier!

Indian Spiced Chicken Drumsticks 3

Indian Spiced Chicken Drumsticks 1.jpg

Indian Spiced Chicken Drumsticks

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Ingredients
  

Indian Spice Blend

  • Coriander Seeds-3 tbsp
  • Cumin Seeds-1 1/2 tbsp
  • Fennel Seeds-1 tbsp
  • Cinnamon-1 inch
  • Cloves-4
  • Dry Red Chili-2

For the Marinade:

  • Chicken Drumsticks-7-8 pieces
  • Thick Yoghurt-1 cup
  • Crushed Ginger-1 tbsp
  • Crushed Garlic-1 tbsp
  • Indian Spice Blend-2 tbsp
  • Oil-2 tbsp
  • Salt-to taste
  • Chaat Masala optional-1 tbsp

Instructions
 

  • In a pan toast all the spices on low heat until aromatic making sure to not burn it.
  • Transfer into a spice grinder and coarse grind the spices.
  • In a ziplock bag mix all the marinade ingredients except oil and keep it in the fridge for a few hours or overnight.
  • When ready arrange on a greased foil lined baking sheet,drizzle oil all over and broil until all golden turning the drumsticks every now and then to develop color on all sides.
  • Brush the sides with the remaining marinade to keep them moist and flavorful.
  • Sprinkle some lemon juice and chaat masala all over and serve warm!

This wonderful event is hosted by the lovely Katy of Happy Baking Days and our group has some amazing picnic ideas for this season!Get inspired 🙂

Salads and Slaws:

Sandwiches and Mains:

Desserts:

Drinks:

Check back on Sunday for all the recipes! You can join in the chat on Twitter too: we’ll tweet throughout the day and share all of our picnic recipes. Our weekly chat starts at 7:00 pm EST. To join in, just follow the #SundaySupper hashtag, and remember to include it in your tweets. You can also check out our #SundaySupper Pinterest board for more delicious recipes and photos.