Soni's Food

Indian Inspiration!

Chorizo and Spicy Sweet Potato Tapas #SundaySupper

19 | 01 | 2014
By Soni Sinha

Tapas has got to be one of my favorite foods.I first got a taste of it in London when my husband and I went to a Tapas bar and I was hooked!I loved every single one that we tried.The small delicious portions are just perfect with a few beverages and its a great party idea!Irrespective of whether you are meat eater or a vegetarian there’s something for every one.

Chorizo with Spicy Sweet Potato Tapas.jpg

I feel that the idea of serving small portions of a combination of appetizers or entrees is the best way to enjoy different flavors instead of a big meal and I could have these EVERY SINGLE DAY.

My recipe today involves Sweet Potato and some delicious Chorizo!I’ve used Smoked Chorizo here that adds that amazing smokiness to the dish.You all know how much I love Sweet Potatoes.I’ve used them in these amazing Sweet Potato Bites with Kale and Goat’s Cheese that’s also a great party starter.Coming back to this dish,spicing the sweet potatoes with some cumin and cayenne worked for me just fine.This Tapas has got the sweet,salty,smoky,spicy and the hubby couldn’t stop himself from finishing off the whole thing.Its that good.

Chorizo and Spicy Sweet Potato Tapas 3.jpg

Chorizo with Spicy Sweet Potato Tapas.jpg

Chorizo and Spicy Sweet Potato Tapas #SundaySupper

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Ingredients
  

  • Chorizo-3 sliced from the middle and diced
  • Sweet Potato-3 peeled and diced
  • Red Onion-1 small
  • Garlic-2 cloves crushed
  • Red Chili flakes-a generous pinch
  • Cumin-1 tsp
  • Cayenne-1/8 tsp
  • Salt-to taste
  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil-2 tbsp

Instructions
 

  • In a pot boil the sweet potatoes with some water until fork tender about 10 minutes.
  • In a skillet heat a tbsp of oil and add the chorizo.Cook until golden.Transfer onto a bowl.
  • Discard the fat and add another tbsp of oil.
  • Saute the onions for about a minute.
  • Add the garlic and saute.
  • Add the cumin,red chili and cayenne.
  • Mix well and add the sweet potato until well combined.
  • Add the chorizo back and mix all together.
  • Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

This event is hosted by the lovely Conni from the Foodie Army Wife and we’ve got an amazing Tapas menu for you!Look no further!

Here’s what’s on the Table:

Stuffed Green Queen Olives with Garlic Infused Olive Oil from MarocMama
Cheesy, Tortellini Tapas & Spicy Bacon Ranch Dip from Daily Dish Recipes
Black-Eyed Pea Cowboy Caviar from Shockingly Delicious
Goan Beef Croquettes from Masala Herb
Giardiniera Salad from Peanut Butter and Peppers
Bacon Wrapped Calamari from Jane’s Adventures in Dinner
Patatas Bravas from Supper for a Steal
Caramelized Onion & Gruyere Bites from The Foodie Army Wife
Agave Truffles from Killer Bunnies, Inc
Pear, Brie, and Honey Crostini from Hezzi-D’s Books and Cooks
Tomato Bread from girlichef
Clams in Green Sauce (Almejas en Salsa Verde) from The Little Ferraro Kitchen
Roasted Tomato-Basil Flatbread from Take A Bite Out of Boca
Herb and Citrus Marinated Olives from Magnolia Days
Smoky Paprika Peppers from Small Wallet, Big Appetite
Balsamic Raspberries with Mascarpone Cream from That Skinny Chick Can Bake
Gambas al Ajillo from Manu’s Menu
Squid in Garlic Chili Olive Oil from Food Lust People Love
Tortilla Española from The Not So Cheesy Kitchen
Croquetas de Pollo from Cookin’ Mimi
Low-Carb Salmon Croquettes from Yours And Mine Are Ours
Bruschetta Topping from What Smells So Good?
Herb Roasted Almonds from Curious Cuisiniere
Artichoke Heart and Manchego Spread on Fried Garlic Bread from The Wimpy Vegetarian
Tortillita de Camarones from Cindy’s Recipes and Writings
Patatas A La Riojana (Rioja-Style Potato & Chorizo Stew) from Cupcakes & Kale Chips
Gambas al Ajillo y Clementina (Shrimp with Garlic and Clementines) from FoodieTots
Tortillas De Papa y Atun (Tuna and Potatoes Tortilla) from Basic N Delicious
Pocky Cake Pops from NinjaBaking.com
Chorizo Filled Dates Wrapped in Bacon from I Run For Wine
Manchego-Stuffed Spanish Meatballs from The Weekend Gourmet
Roast Onions with Blue Cheese and Pine Nuts from Healthy. Delicious.
Shrimp and Chorizo Tapas from The Texan New Yorker
Blueberry and Lemon Yogurt Quesada from In The Kitchen With KP
Chorizo with Spicy Sweet Potato Tapas from Soni’s Food
Chorizo and Manchego Toast Tapas from Family Foodie
Roasted Bone Marrow with Citrus Salad from The Girl In The Little Red Kitchen
Mushroom Chevre Crostini from A Kitchen Hoor’s Adventures
Serrano Ham and Manchego Croquetas with Smoked Pimenton Aioli from My Other City By The Bay
Krab Filled Avocado Tapas from from Hot Momma’s Kitchen Chaos
Polenta Crostini Bites with Caramelized Mushrooms: Cicchetti – A Venetian Tapas Traditionfrom La Bella Vita Cucina

Martin Redmond is here to give you the perfect recommendations: Best Wines To Pair With Tapas from ENOFYLZ Wine Blog

Sunday Supper Movement

Join the #SundaySupper conversation on twitter every 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

 

 

Spicy Mac and Cheese Patties with Curried Mayonnaise for #KraftyCooking

08 | 01 | 2014
By Soni Sinha

This post is part of a case study for “Google Plus for Brand Awareness”.All opinions are my own.

I’m excited to participate in this case study involving some well known faces on Google Plus who came up with this concept.The idea is to show brands how they can have a wider appeal by using Google plus to promote their products.For this purpose, we were asked to come up with a recipe using Kraft ‘Mac and Cheese’ or ‘Cracker Barrel Cheese’.I had a pack of Kraft Mac and Cheese and decided to go ahead and do something with it.

Spicy Mac and Cheese Patties

If you’ve been reading my blog you know how much I love appetizers.And this time was no different.My mind went straight to create an appetizer but a spicy hot version.I used Jalapeños and some Cayenne for that kick and I have to tell you that this is not for the faint hearted.Its spicy,its hot and its addictive.

Kraft Mac and Cheese

The patties are crispy on the outside and moist on the inside.Since they’re not particularly low cal I’ve made them smaller for portion control.I serve them on a bed of lettuce with some curried mayonnaise that balances the heat and also adds a smooth sweet element to the appetizer.The combo tastes delicious and comes together pretty quickly.Serve it for your game night and see it disappear in no time!

Spicy Mac and Cheese Patties 4

Spicy Mac and Cheese Patties with Curried Mayonnaise for #KraftyCooking

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Ingredients
  

For the Patties

  • Cooked Mac and Cheese-2 cups
  • Plain Bread Crumbs-1/4 cup or more plus more for coating
  • Egg-1
  • Jalapeños-2 seeded and chopped
  • Cayenne- 1/8 tsp
  • Salt-to taste
  • Oil-2 tbsp to pan fry

Curried Mayonnaise

  • Mayonnaise-3/4 cup
  • Curry Powder-1 tbsp
  • Honey-2 tbsp
  • Salt-to taste
  • Pepper-1/4 tsp

Instructions
 

  • Mix the patty ingredients in a bowl.If needed add some more bread crumbs.Shape to form small round patties using your hands.
  • Take some bread crumbs in a platter and coat the patties on both sides.
  • In a non stick pan heat oil and add the patties.Cook on medium until golden on both sides.

Curried Mayonnaise

  • Mix all the ingredients in a bowl.Check seasonings.
  • Arrange patties on a platter along with the mayonnaise.Serve hot.

 

 

 

 

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.

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!