Soni's Food

Indian Inspiration!

10 Amazing Superbowl Appetizers

31 | 01 | 2014
By Soni Sinha

Superbowl is round the corner and if you’re still lost for menu ideas,I’ve got the perfect solution.My 10 Appetizer round-up has something for everyone and will surely get your guests raving.All these recipes are easy and packed with so much flavor.And if that isn’t enough, these recipes are also healthy so you don’t feel guilty when indulging.

Without further ado here’s my Top 10 for Super Bowl!Scroll down for the links!Enjoy!

10 Amazing Superbowl Appetizers from Soni's Food

  1. Tandoori Gobhi (Cauliflower)
  2. Tofu Buffalo Bites
  3. Honey Cumin Boneless Chicken Wings
  4. Indian Spiced Chicken Meatballs
  5. Chorizo and Spicy Sweet Potato Tapas
  6. Spiced Sweet Potato Bites with Kale and Goat’s Cheese
  7. Cabbage Stuffed Mushrooms
  8. Indian Tofu Vegetable Patties
  9. Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps
  10. Quinoa Potato Cakes

 

 

 

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

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

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

 

 

Salmon in Mint and Coriander Sauce #fishrecipes

13 | 11 | 2013
By Soni Sinha

Mint is by far my favorite herb.It enhances the flavor of anything you add it into and transforms mundane dishes into something special.I’ve used mint in my favorite dishes over here and here.So good.I like to mix mint with cilantro in my savory dishes to get a subtle balance of flavors without overpowering either herb.I also love Salmon.It’s packed with protein and omega 3.It does have a strong taste and some of you might find it a bit overpowering, but I’ve grown up in India and the fresh water fish in India has a pretty strong flavor too, so I don’t mind it at all.

Salmon in Mint and Coriander Sauce 2

Coming to my recipe, it has the mint and cilantro along with some cumin and coriander. The best part is that the sauce comes together in a blender and the aroma is unbelievable as it cooks.You can smell the lovely herbs and once you add in the spices, you start to get hungry.The yoghurt is a small amount just enough to add the tang and a lovely consistency to the sauce.Serve it with some hot steaming rice and you have one amazing meal.Enjoy.

Salmon in Mint and Coriander Sauce.jpg

Salmon in Mint and Coriander Sauce 4

Salmon in Mint and Coriander Sauce

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

  • Salmon fillets-4 6oz each
  • Onion-1 small
  • Ginger-1/2 inch
  • Garlic-4 cloves
  • Fresh Mint chopped-1/2 cup
  • Fresh Coriander chopped-1/2 cup
  • Yoghurt-2 tbsp
  • Ground Cumin-1 tsp
  • Ground Coriander- 1 1/2 tsp
  • Turmeric-1/2 tsp
  • Paprika or Red Chili-1/2 tsp
  • 1 Small Tomato- chopped
  • Tomato Paste-1 tbsp
  • Water-1 1/2 cups
  • Salt- to taste
  • Oil-3 tbsp

Instructions
 

  • Place the onion,ginger,garlic,mint and fresh coriander(cilantro) in a food processor along with a little water.Blend to make a paste.Keep aside.
  • In a skillet or a wok heat oil.
  • Transfer the mint paste into the oil and saute for about 5-6 minutes until the raw onion smell disappears.
  • Add the spices and continue to cook until all aromatic about 3-4 minutes.
  • Add the yoghurt and tomato paste and cook until you see oil separating from the sides.
  • Add the water and salt.Bring to a boil.
  • Add the Salmon, reduce the heat.Cover and cook until Salmon is fully cooked.(about 6-8 minutes)
  • Check seasonings.
  • Serve hot with some rice.Enjoy.

 

 

 

Spicy Sea Scallop Skewers with Mint Yoghurt Sauce #SundaySupper

01 | 09 | 2013
By Soni Sinha

Its the Labor Day Weekend and also the last weekend before school starts!September is here and very soon we’ll see the cooler crisp air in the mornings and evenings.Summer gradually making way for Fall.So while we still have some heat, lets just enjoy these last few days by having some barbecue fun with our favorite veggies,meats or seafood.For me it has to be Sea Scallops since I love them!Sea Scallops are one of the most nutritious seafoods out there and are packed with Vitamin B12,a necessary nutrient for cardiovascular health and Omega 3 Fatty acids.They are available fresh or frozen.You could use either for this recipe.Trader Joe’s sells these frozen Jumbo Sea Scallops that I’ve used here and they taste great.I just let them defrost before they’re ready to be used.

Spicy Sea Scallop Skewers.jpg

I like to have some spice, some heat on my seafood and that brings me to our recipe today.My Spicy Sea Scallops are of course spicy,but also fun to eat since I’ve got them on skewers.I’ve used the flat side of my griddle pan to get a nice sear on both sides, but you could also grill them directly on the grill for those lovely marks!

Spice Mix for Spicy Sea Scallops

The spice mix I’ve used here consists of Garam Masala,Cumin and Red Chili powder.The Sea Scallops are coated with the spice on one side before going into the skewers so as to not overpower the sweet delicate flavors and they taste absolutely delicious!I serve this with a cooling Mint Yoghurt Sauce that just balances the heat and also pairs nicely with all the flavors going on.

Spicy Sea Scallop Skewers 1

The hubby is trying to cut down on his carbs and found this dish perfect with some fresh salad for his meal.You could also serve this as an appetizer for your next party!

Spicy Sea Scallop Skewers with Mint Yoghurt Sauce

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

For the Sea Scallops

  • Sea Scallops-8
  • Garam masala-2 tbsp
  • Ground Cumin-1 tsp
  • Red Chili powder or paprika-1/4 tsp
  • Lemon-cut into wedges
  • Salt-to taste

For the Mint Yoghurt Sauce

  • Mint-1/2 cup chopped
  • Yoghurt-1/2 cup
  • Garlic-1 minced
  • Salt- to taste

Instructions
 

  • In a bowl mix the spices.
  • Coat the scallops on one side with the spices and arrange on skewers.
  • Heat the flat side of your oiled griddle pan.
  • Place the skewers and let them cook on medium high for about 2 minutes per side.Look for a lovely sear.
  • Mix all the ingredients for the mint yoghurt sauce.
  • Arrange the skewers on top of some fresh salad and serve with the sauce.
  • Squeeze some lemon juice all over.

This exciting event is hosted by Foodie Stuntman of Crazy Foodie Stunts and we’ve got some amazing Labor Day recipe ideas for you all!!

Refreshing Drinks

Amazing Appetizers and Sides

Enviously Good Entreés

Delicious Desserts

Join the #SundaySupper conversation on twitter each Sunday. We tweet throughout the day and share recipes from all over the world. Our weekly chat starts at 7:00 pm EST. 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.

 

Indian Spiced Chicken Meatball Wraps #Lunchbox #SundaySupper

18 | 08 | 2013
By Soni Sinha

When it comes to making your own lunch or your kids’ lunches you’re sometimes lost as to what to pack.School starts in a few weeks and I can see myself fretting over what to pack in my Ten year old’s lunchbox. For starters, my daughter does not like sandwiches and I end-up making some kind of pasta dish almost every other day for her lunch.I know that she’s fond of Wraps but then again she doesn’t want cold-cuts inside and that has got me thinking of coming up with something that she would love, like these Indian Spiced Chicken Meatball Wraps that are healthy and packed with flavor to please all those picky eaters (kids and adults)!

Indian Spiced Chicken Meatballs 3

My Indian Spiced Chicken Meatballs are baked in the oven, have tons of flavor from the coriander,garam masala, cilantro and mint!Whether you are a cilantro lover or hater you will love this recipe since I’ve used a combination of mint and cilantro that balances the flavor of both the herbs and is used extensively in Indian cooking.The grated onion keeps these meatballs moist and you can make  a big batch of these and freeze them for later use.Use them in soups,curries,even as a tasty appetizer for your next party!The possibilities are endless!

Indian Spiced Chicken Meatball Wraps 5

For the wraps I use Whole wheat tortillas and any salad mix.I also make a simple raita using Plain Yoghurt with some salt and ground toasted cumin.You pack each item separately and assemble at lunchtime.Its a great variation from the usual and a fun way to enjoy Indian flavors!I made these for our dinner yesterday and got a big thumbs-up from my both my kids! 🙂

Indian Spiced Chicken Meatball Wraps 6

Indian Spiced Chicken Meatball Wraps

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

  • Whole Wheat Tortillas-4
  • Salad mix-2 cups

For the Meatballs

  • Chicken Mince breasts and thighs-1 lb
  • 1 small onion- grated or pureed
  • Crushed Ginger-1/2 tbsp
  • Crushed Garlic-1/2 tbsp
  • Ground Coriander-1 tsp
  • Garam Masala- 1/2 tsp
  • Chopped Fresh Cilantro -1/2 cup
  • Chopped Fresh Mint-1/2 cup
  • Salt-to taste

Raita

  • Plain Yoghurt-2 cups
  • Cumin Seeds-1-2 tsp
  • Salt-to taste

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
  • In a dry pan, toast the cumin seeds on medium until slightly golden.Allow to cool and crush using a pestle mortar.
  • Mix the Raita ingredients in a bowl and keep in the fridge.
  • Mix all the meatball ingredients in a mixing bowl.
  • Make small balls and place on a greased foil lined baking sheet.
  • Spray with cooking spray all over the top.
  • Bake in a preheated oven for 15-20 mins until slightly golden.

To assemble

  • Take a Tortilla Wrap and place some salad greens in the center.
  • Add 4-5 meatballs and pour some raita all over.
  • Roll and enjoy!

This event is hosted by the lovely Liz from That Skinny Chick can Bake and we’ve all come together to share some exciting lunch ideas for you all!!

Sandwiches, Wraps and Entrees:

Munchies, Salads and Sides:

Sweet Treats:

And remember that we have a #SundaySupper chat tonight at 7 PM. We tweet throughout the day using the hashtag #SundaySupper, then we all gather to share ideas, recipes and answer questions from 7-8 PM ET. Check out our #SundaySupper Pinterest Board for more fabulous recipes and food photos.

Would you like to join the Sunday Supper Movement? You can sign up here: Sunday Supper Movement