Soni's Food

Indian Inspiration!

Indian Spiced Potato Pastry Shells #idahopotato #SundaySupper

28 | 06 | 2015
By Soni Sinha

If there’s one vegetable that’s used extensively in all cuisines it has to be the humble potato. It is the fourth largest grown crop in the world after rice, wheat and maize.Who doesn’t love potatoes!The smell of a fried or roasted potato alone can trigger hunger pangs in anyone.Its America’s favorite vegetable and an average American eats about 110 pounds of potatoes each year!

Did you also know that Potatoes have a higher Potassium and Vitamin C content than bananas!

Surprised?I was too.

Indian Spiced Potato Pastry Shells

The one name that’s synonymous with potatoes in America is Idaho® potatoes.The reason being they are simply the best and America’s favorite.Idaho’s rich volcanic soil, warm days, cool nights and clean water from the Idaho mountains gives their potatoes a unique texture and taste.Unlike potatoes from other states that are grown seasonally, Idaho® potatoes are available all year round.They come in different varieties like the ever popular Russet,Red,Fingerling and Gold.Idaho® potatoes were kind enough to send me their gorgeous Russet and Fingerling potatoes that were absolutely delicious.The potatoes have a lovely buttery flavor and my family has enjoyed them roasted,mashed,in my curries and stir fry’s!

Indian Spiced Potato Pastry Shells fillingIndian cuisine has had a long love affair with potatoes.Right from mouth watering appetizers like chaat, samosas, tikkis (cakes) to vegetarian/meat curries and rice dishes like Biryani and Pilaf, the list goes on.As a result I’ve grown up enjoying potatoes in their myriad forms and use them obsessively in my cooking like my Potato and Asparagus or Indian Smashed Potatoes. If you’re a potato lover like me, then you’re going to love my recipe today.

Indian Spiced Potato Pastry Shells 8

My Indian Spiced Potato Pastry Shells are the perfect appetizer for your parties.I’ve tried to keep the recipe pretty simple with an Indian twist using ingredients that are easily available at your grocery store.I’ve used the lovely Russet Potatoes and they were perfect for this recipe.The potatoes are flavored with nutty cumin and a mix of earthy spices in the garam masala.I’ve added jalapeños for some heat and roasted peanuts for texture and crunch. The result is a piquant filling that can be quite addictive and you might want to make a big batch of these :).

Indian Spiced Potato Pastry Shells 9

As you bite into it, you first taste the flaky pastry before being engulfed with the deliciousness of the potato filling quite similar to a samosa.Its phenomenal.The filling can be made ahead and heated just before serving. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to make and looks cute too!Just drop a few spoonfuls into each shell and you’re good to go.Serve these along with some Thai Sweet Chili sauce or tamarind chutney (if you’re lucky to have an Indian grocery near you) and watch these disappear in no time.Enjoy!

Indian Spiced Potato Pastry Shells

Indian Spiced Potato Pastry Shells #idahopotato #SundaySupper

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

  • Frozen Puff Pastry Shells/Cups-1 pack
  • 3 large Idaho® potatoes
  • Cumin seeds- 1 tsp
  • ½ inch Ginger crushed
  • Jalapeño-1 seeded and diced
  • Ground Coriander-1 tsp
  • Garam Masala-1 tsp
  • Roasted peanuts-2 tbsp
  • Salt- to taste
  • Oil-2 tbsp

Instructions
 

  • Bake the Puff Pastry Cups according to the instructions.
  • Fill a pot with enough water to cover the potatoes.Bring to a boil.
  • Cover the pot,lower the heat and let it cook for about 15-20 mins or until the potatoes are cooked.
  • Once cooled, peel the potatoes and mash it slightly with a fork or a potato masher.
  • Heat oil in a pan.
  • Add the cumin seeds and once they start to splutter lower the heat and add the ginger and jalapeño.
  • Add the garam masala, ground coriander and the peanuts. Saute for a minute.
  • Add the mashed potatoes, salt and mix well.Check the seasonings.
  • When ready to serve add about a 2 tbsp of the filling in each shell and serve with your favorite sweet condiment.

Check out some other great recipe ideas from our Sunday Supper bloggers and get inspired!

For more information about Idaho® potatoes visit their website : http://idahopotato.com

Follow them on social media via:
Twitter: http://twitter.com/idahopotato
Facebook: http://facebook.com/famousidahopotatoes
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/idahopotato
Instagram: http://instagram.com/idahopotatoes

FINAL TM LOGO

Please check out our Potato Pinterest board https://www.pinterest.com/thesundaysupper/potato-recipes-featuring-famous-idaho-potatoes/for more scrumptious recipe ideas using Idaho® potatoes!

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. To get more great Sunday Supper Recipes, visit our website or check out our Pinterest board.

Would you like to join the Sunday Supper Movement? It’s easy. You can sign up by clicking here: Sunday Supper Movement.

Disclosure-This post is sponsored by the Idaho Potato Commission in conjunction with a social media campaign through Sunday Supper LLC. All opinions are my own.

 

Chicken Tikka Masala

21 | 02 | 2015
By Soni Sinha

The Tikka Masala is an all time favorite dish all across Indian restaurants.There are many theories about its origin where-by some claim that it was accidentally invented in India but the most viable theory suggests that it was invented in the UK when a customer complained that the chicken curry was too dry and the chef created this tomato based sauce that was so well received that it gained popularity all over the UK.It is now a British National Dish and devoured by people all over the world.Chicken tikka masala is the perfect fusion of east-meets-west flavors in a global world.

chicken tikka masala

I love the vibrant color of the Tikka Masala and the rich luscious texture that’s just wanting to be savored. It’s a favorite in our family with my kids demanding it for dinner many times. I’ve made this dish using Chicken,Paneer and Tofu and they’re always a hit with the crowd when entertaining. The small chunks of Chicken are marinated in yoghurt and some spices and left for a few hours to ensure that the flavors seep in.The chunks are then grilled just until they develop those gorgeous golden edges.A great party tip is to make a big batch of these Chicken Tikkas and save some to serve as an appetizer and use the rest in the Tikka Masala sauce.

Chicken Tikka Masala

The Chicken Tikkas are then transferred into this rich tomato based sauce consisting of ginger, garlic, spices,tomatoes and cream and then simmered until the redolence of the warm spices starts making you hungry.The unique smoky flavor that’s achieved by grilling the tikka and then adding them into the sauce is what makes this dish so irresistible.The sauce has a hint of sweetness in the background but you can still taste the spices.The cream adds the richness and brings it all together.It’s the perfect comfort food especially in these cold winter days and can be enjoyed with some Roti,Naan or steaming hot Rice.Enjoy!

Chicken Tikka Masala

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Tikka

  • Chicken Tenders-1 lb cubed
  • Crushed Ginger-1 tbsp
  • Crushed Garlic-1 tbsp
  • Greek Yoghurt-a cup
  • Garam masala-2 tsp
  • Turmeric-1/2 tsp
  • Red chili or paprika-1 tsp
  • Salt- to taste

For the Sauce

  • Medium onion-1 chopped finely
  • Crushed Ginger-1 tbsp
  • Crushed Garlic-1 tbsp
  • Ground Cumin-1 tsp
  • Ground Coriander-1 tsp
  • Garam Masala-1 tsp
  • Turmeric- 1/2 tsp
  • Canned Tomato Puree-2 cups
  • Sugar-1 tbsp
  • Water-1 1/2 cups
  • Cream-1/3 cup
  • Kasoori Methi dried fenugreek-1 tbsp
  • Butter-2 tbsp
  • Oil-1 tbsp
  • Salt-to taste

Instructions
 

For the Chicken Tikka

  • In a ziplock bag marinade the chicken tenders along with the rest of the ingredients and let it sit in the fridge for 4-5 hrs.
  • Place the marinated chicken pieces onto a foil lined baking sheet.Drizzle some oil all over and grill for about 8-10 minutes checking constantly until you see the golden edges developing on the sides.
  • Once done take the tray out of the oven and keep aside.

For the Sauce

  • In a deep skillet heat the butter and oil.
  • Add the onions and saute until slightly golden.
  • Lower the heat and add the ginger and garlic and continue to cook for about a minute.
  • Add the spices and mix well.Add the tomato puree and continue to cook.
  • Add the sugar, salt and cook for about 5 minutes until well combined.
  • Add the water and bring to a boil.Reduce the heat and add the chicken pieces.
  • Continue to cook for about 8-10 minutes on low heat until all incorporated.
  • Add the cream and kasoori methi. Check the seasonings.
  • Serve hot with roti,naan or rice.

 

Indian Spiced Cabbage and Fennel

10 | 11 | 2014
By Soni Sinha

Stir fried vegetables are always a great addition to a dinner table. And with the holidays nearing, its not a bad idea to add some to your repertoire of recipes to serve. I love Indian spiced Cabbage and decided to give it a little twist by adding some sweet fennel. I don’t know about you but I absolutely love Fennel and have enjoyed them in recipes like this and this. In this recipe the Cabbage and fennel combo works wonderfully and you can taste the sweet licorice flavors amped up with some spices.

Indian Spiced Cabbage and Fennel

If you’re pressed for time you could use sliced cabbage from Trader Joe’s like I’ve done or just get a regular green cabbage and slice them thinly. The spices consist of smoky cumin, coriander, a little bit of garam masala and ginger. The dish brings together all these flavors and the leftovers can be turned into tasty sandwich fillings or even a savory puff pastry filling. This dish is sure to please your vegetarian and vegan guests too. I served this with some roti and dal and its an easy and delicious way to use fennel in Indian cooking. You’ll be glad you tried it. Enjoy.

Indian Spiced Cabbage and Fennel

Indian Spiced Cabbage and Fennel

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

  • Cabbage-1 head thinly sliced
  • Fennel-2 bulbs edges trimmed and thinly sliced
  • Cumin seeds-1 tsp
  • 1 large onion-sliced
  • 1 inch ginger crushed
  • Ground Cumin-1 tsp
  • Ground Coriander-2 tsp
  • Red chili powder-1/2 tsp
  • Garam masala-1 tsp
  • Green chili-2 optional
  • Tomato paste--1-2 tsp
  • Salt-to taste
  • Oil-3 tbsp

Instructions
 

  • In a skillet or wok heat the oil and add the cumin seeds until they crackle.
  • Add the onion and saute for a about 2 mins.
  • Add the ginger and continue to cook.
  • Add the spices followed by the tomato paste and cook until all aromatic about 2 minutes.Add a tbsp of water if its sticks to your pan.
  • Continue to cook for about 5-6 minutes until the paste doesn't stick to the pan and oil starts to separate from the sides.
  • Add the cabbage and fennel along with salt.Mix well.
  • Cover and continue to cook stirring every few mins until evenly cooked.

Healthy Pumpkin Coconut Squares

13 | 10 | 2014
By Soni Sinha

You might be thinking that I’m on a Pumpkin high these days.And to be honest I am.Right from the savory to sweet, I just can’t seem to get enough of Pumpkin.And that is why ‘fall’ is such a beautiful season.I get to enjoy Pumpkin goodness to my heart’s content.The recipe I have for you today was an experiment that just turned out to be spot on in terms of flavors,texture and a healthy treat.Don’t you just love when that happens?

Healthy Pumpkin Coconut Squares 5

My pumpkin squares are extremely easy to make and taste incredible.My kids just couldn’t wait to finish these off and I had to request them to let me take the pics first!I’ve used Almond Flour here and Agave instead of sugar that makes this a healthy indulgent treat using minimal processed ingredients.Making this couldn’t be any easier since the whole mixture literally requires just a mixing bowl and spoon.

Healthy Pumpkin Coconut Squares

The pumpkin pie spice flavors remind you of the gorgeous season we’re in right now and the pumpkin coconut combo works its magic.The squares need a little chill time in the fridge to set and to be cut into squares and all ready to be gobbled up.Enjoy.

Healthy Pumpkin Coconut Squares

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

  • 1 15 oz Can of Pumpkin puree
  • Almond flour-3/4 cup
  • Shredded Coconut-1/2 cup plus some to sprinkle over the top
  • Agave syrup-1/2 cup plus 2 tbsp
  • Pumpkin Pie spice mix-1 tsp
  • Baking soda-3/4 tsp
  • Salt-1/4 tsp
  • 2 large eggs
  • Butter or cooking spray for greasing the pan

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
  • Grease a 9x9 baking dish with cooking sray or butter.
  • In a mixing bowl mix all the ingredients making sure they're clump free.
  • Transfer into the greased dish and smooth the top using a spatula.Sprinkle some shredded coconut over the top.
  • Bake for 40-45 minutes until the edges are golden.
  • Cool completely and chill in the fridge before cutting into squares.
  • Enjoy.

 Recipe Adapted from The Detoxinista

 

 

Leek and Potato Soup

16 | 09 | 2014
By Soni Sinha

“Here comes the morning chill
the leaves falling on the ground so still
the beaming sunshine
the soft breeze
kissing me softly on my cheeks
as I sit down by my window
staring at the wonder
of nature in all its splendor
Of birds singing
Of trees swaying
to the tune of the soft Autumn wind”

Leek and Potato Soup

Today we got a glimpse of Autumn when we woke up to cooler temperatures for the first time this season and I instantly decided that I had to make soup for dinner.It just seemed the perfect day to enjoy some warm soup to warm us up.I was also reminded that I had some gorgeous leeks that needed to be used and Leek and Potato Soup came to mind.

Leek and Potato Soup 2

I love the simplicity and the delicate balance of flavors that this soup has to offer.Leek and potatoes are a classic combination and with minimal ingredients its just the perfect food to warm and comfort you on a cold night.I’ve tried to make it healthier by omitting cream and just going with 2% milk and water combo.You could also use stock instead of water.Its a family favorite.  Enjoy!

Leek and Potato Soup

Leek and Potato Soup

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

  • Leeks-2 bunches cleaned and chopped
  • Large potatoes-2 peeled and diced
  • Onion-1 medium chopped
  • Butter-2 tbsp
  • 2 % Milk-1 cup
  • Water-1 cup
  • Salt and pepper

Instructions
 

  • In a pot heat the butter and saute the onion until translucent.
  • Add the leeks.Saute for another minute.
  • Add the potatoes, milk, water, salt and pepper.
  • Once it comes to a boil, cover , reduce the heat and continue to cook for about 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are fully cooked.
  • Check the seasonings.
  • Carefully transfer into a blender or use a hand blender and blend until all smooth.
  • Garnish with your favorite herb and serve hot.