Soni's Food

Indian Inspiration!

Spinach Pesto Chicken Kebabs

03 | 08 | 2014
By Soni Sinha

Grilled foods cannot be complete without some juicy, moist kebabs.For our weekend bbq,I made these Chicken Kebabs with my  Spinach Pecan Pesto and it was just delicious.Spinach and Chicken go very well together and with the garlic and parmesan there’s some great flavors going on in these kebabs.You can use your own favorite pesto for this recipe.I just happened to have some fresh spinach waiting to be used and always have pecans on hand.

Spinach Pesto Chicken Kebabs

As I mentioned in my earlier post, I’ve been busy entertaining this summer and luckily was able to take pictures of these gorgeous kebabs.I added some onions and peppers for some extra crunch.The kebabs were marinated in the pesto for about 4 hours and grilled for about 7-8 minnutes on each side until they developed all those yummy grill marks.

spinach pecan pesto

My Spinach Pecan Pesto is super easy and is a great way to enjoy some clean, healthy flavors in your food.Apart from using it in your favorite pasta, you can also use it as a condiment/dip,marinade,base in your wraps/burritos, sandwich and so on.

I served the kebabs with some Couscous Tabbouleh alongside some grilled veggies for a delicious summer meal.Not to be missed this season.Enjoy!

Spinach Pesto Chicken Kebabs 1

 

Spinach Pesto Chicken Kebabs

Spinach Pesto Chicken Kebabs

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Ingredients
  

  • Chicken Breasts cubed-1 lb
  • Spinach Pecan Pesto-5-6 tbsp
  • Onions-1 large cubed
  • Peppers-2 cubed
  • Grape tomatoes-5-6
  • Salt and pepper
  • Olive Oil

Instructions
 

  • Marinate the chicken in the pesto for about 4 hours.
  • Arrange the chicken,onions,peppers,grapr tomatoes on a skewer.
  • Sprinkle some salt and pepper all over and grill for about 7-8 minutes turning every few minutes until evenly cooked.

Tofu and Peas Curry (Tofu Matar) #SundaySupper

09 | 03 | 2014
By Soni Sinha

Meatless meals give you the opportunity to appreciate veggies and its a good idea to go meat-free a few times during the week.If you like Indian food then there are myriad of vegetarian recipes that you can cook for each mealtime.Our Sunday Supper team has decided to go meatless today and I’m so excited!

Tofu and Peas Curry(Tofu Matar)

My contribution to this event is my Tofu and Peas curry that tastes delicious with all the flavorful spices and it’s also healthy.This dish is traditionally made using Paneer, but Tofu is packed with protein and low in saturated fat that makes it a perfect alternative to Paneer.I shallow fry the Tofu until pale golden and that gives it a lovely texture and helps it hold its shape.

Tofu and Peas Curry 3

The Tofu takes on all the deliciousness and gets coated in the sauce along with the peas that add a lovely vibrant color to the dish.Scoop it with Roti,Naan or just plain rice.If you love curry then this recipe can be the base for many of your dishes.Substitute the Tofu for your favorite vegetable and enjoy a curry night in the comfort of your own home.

Tofu and Peas Curry

Tofu and Peas Curry (Tofu Matar) #SundaySupper

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Ingredients
  

  • Extra Firm Tofu-15 oz
  • Frozen Peas-1 cup
  • 1 medium Red Onion-diced
  • Garlic cloves-4
  • Ginger-1 inch
  • Bay Leaf-1
  • Ground Cumin-1 tsp
  • Ground Coriander-1 tsp
  • Red chili powder-1/2 tsp
  • Turmeric-1/2 tsp
  • Tomato-1 pureed
  • Water-1/2 cup
  • Garam Masala-1/2 tsp
  • Salt-to taste
  • Oil-4-5 tbsp

Instructions
 

  • Squeeze the Tofu between your palms gently to get excess water out and pat dry with a kitchen towel.
  • Cube the Tofu into small cubes.
  • In a wok heat about 2 tbsp of oil and shallow fry in batches until golden.
  • Empty onto a plate.
  • In a food processor place the onion,garlic and ginger.Add a little water and make a paste.
  • In the same wok heat about 3-4 tbsp of oil and add the bay leaf.
  • Add the onion paste and saute until the raw smell disappears stirring frequently making sure that it does not stick to the pan.(about 5-6 minutes)
  • Add the spices and continue to cook until aromatic.
  • Add the pureed tomato and continue to cook until you see oil separating from the sides.
  • Add the fried Tofu,mix well and add water.
  • Add salt and garam masala.Check and adjust the seasonings.
  • Add the peas and continue to simmer uncovered for about 6-8 minutes.
  • Serve hot with Roti,Naan or Rice.

My friend the lovely Tammi from Mommas Meals is hosting this exciting event and you will be amazed at the collection of meatless meals from our Sunday Supper group!

Salads, Soups, Stews and Starters

“Meat”balls

Pastas, Pizzas and Casseroles

Burgers

Tacos & Everything Wrapped

Other Main and Side Dishes

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.

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!

 

 

 

 

Baked Lemon Coconut Risotto #SundaySupper

28 | 04 | 2013
By Soni Sinha

So many times you come across recipes that look and taste really good, but you’ve never tried making them yourself.Either its the technique or the process or for whatever reason, you’re scared to give it a try.You’ve drooled over them on the web, you’ve ordered them in restaurants and you’ve always wanted to try making them in your kitchen.Well, Sunday Supper is tackling exactly those kinds of recipes today and I’m so excited 🙂

For me the Risotto is one such recipe that I’ve always admired from afar.I order it in the Italian Restaurants,I’ve had it with so many different combinations asparagus,shrimp,mushrooms, but I’ve never attempted to cook it myself!Well today I did it!I made RISOTTO!!Please bear with my craziness but I’m just so so happy that it turned out lip-smackingly delicious!!!

Baked Lemon Coconut Risotto

Although technically its not the perfect way of cooking a Risotto since its baked not cooked on the stove-top by slowly adding the stock ladle by ladle,I found this baked version so much easier without any of that effort!I tweaked the original recipe by using Coconut Milk and Lemon that gives this dish so much flavor and richness.The subtle hint of coconut in the background combined with the tang from the lemon is just incredible!Its so light and refreshing with the grated parmesan and fresh parsley!I’m in love 🙂

Baked Lemon Coconut Risotto 1

Baked Lemon Coconut Risotto

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Ingredients
  

  • Arborio Rice- 3/4 Cup
  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil-1 tbsp
  • Onion-1 chopped finely
  • Dry White Wine-1/4 Cup
  • Coconut Milk-1 1/2 Cups
  • Low Sodium Chicken Broth-1/2 cup
  • Salt- to taste
  • Pepper-1/8 tsp
  • Lemon Juice-2 tbsp
  • Lemon Zest-1 tbsp
  • Butter-1 tbsp
  • Fresh Parsley- for garnish
  • Grated Parmesan Cheese-1/4 cup

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 425 degrees.
  • In an Oven proof sauce pan or dutch oven heat the olive oil.
  • Add the onions and saute until translucent for about 5-6 minutes.
  • Add the Rice and stir for about a minute.
  • Add the White Wine and cook until all of the wine has evaporated.
  • Add the coconut milk, chicken broth, salt and pepper.
  • Bring it to a boil, cover and transfer into the oven.Bake for about 25 minutes.
  • Remove from the oven and stir the lemon juice, lemon zest,butter and parsley.Add a little more broth if you want it more creamy. Sprinkle freshly grated parmesan all over.
  • Serve immediately!

Thanks to our SundaySupper host Conni Smith from The Foodie Army Wife, who chose this wonderful theme!We’re sharing with you our culinary conquests in our kitchens!!Please scroll down for the amazing menu we have for your today!

New Expeditions (Sides, Starters & Staples)

Homemade Corn Tortillas from Pescetarian Journal

Easy Oven Polenta from Shockingly Delicious

Homemade Spiced Flour Tortillas from Chocolate Moosey

Naan from Hezzi-D’s Books and Cooks

Homemade Tofu from Kimchi MOM

Indian Moong Beans from Magnolia Days

Baked Lemon Coconut Risotto from Soni’s Food

Homemade Peanut Butter from Home Cooking Memories

Homemade Ricotta Cheese from Webicurean

Portuguese Chorizo Bread from Family Foodie

Grand Quests (Main Dishes)

Traditional Pork Tamales from Gourmet Drizzles

Braised Lamb Brisket with Lemon Oregano Yogurt Sauce from The Girl In The Little Red Kitchen

Rice Burger from The Urban Mrs.

Pan-fried Scallops with Garlic Chili Linguine from Food Lust People Love

Miso-Glazed Salmon from The Foodie Patootie

Penne with Mustard and Chives from My Other City By The Bay

Arepas Rellenas (Stuffed Arepas) from The Wimpy Vegetarian

Spanish Baked Scallops from Momma’s Meals

Black Beans and Cheese Empanadas from Basic N Delicious

Pork Dim Sum from Small Wallet, Big Appetite

Venison Steak Gyros from Curious Cuisiniere

Baked Tilapia with Parmesan Basil Sauce from Growing Up Gabel

Vegetarian Hortobagyi Pancakes from Happy Baking Days

Caribou & Andouille Chili from The Foodie Army Wife

Escapades (Sweet Treats & Spirited Companions)

Vegan Chocolate Mousse from The Not So Cheesy Kitchen

Zebra Cake from That Skinny Chick Can Bake

Multilayer Bars from What Smells So Good?

Rut-Busting Wines For New Cooking Adventures from ENOFYLZ Wine Blog

Homemade Vanilla Marshmallows from Vintage Kitchen

Strawberry Raspberry Fruit Leather from Juanita’s Cocina

Making Macarons – FAIL! from girlichef

Macaroons from Noshing With The Nolands

Fresh Strawberry Frozen Yogurt from The Messy Baker

Bircher Muesli from Peanut Butter and Peppers

Hello Kitty Rice Krispies from The Ninja Baker

Homemade Cinnamon Rolls from In The Kitchen With KP

Dorie Greenspan’s Orange Almond Tart from Hip Foodie Mom

Ombre Mini Cakes from Daily Dish Recipes

Chocolate Dipped Madeleines from Big Bear’s Wife

Join the #SundaySupper conversation on Twitter on Sunday, April 28th to talk all about our foodie fears! We’ll tweet throughout the day and share recipes from all over the world. Our weekly chat starts at 3:00 pm AKST/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 delicious recipes and food photos.

Check out the Food & Wine Conference sponsored by Sunday Supper! Being held July 19th – 21st in beautiful, sunny Orlando, FL. It’s a must for food bloggers. Find out more here → Food & Wine Conference