Parsee Red Chicken Curry — Cozy up with a touch of spicy homemade Indian this weekend!

This morning I woke up to thoughts of pristine white sand, turquoise waters, barefoot walks on the beach, and the blissful beauty of seclusion. Such is life lately—fairy tale dreams and thoughts of paradise. Yes, paradise. 

Hope you have had a wonderfully lovely year-end, and a beautiful beginning to the new year.

Butter Chicken — Murgh Makhni — India’s signature gift to the world

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The history of Indian cuisine is as enticing as its exotic aromas and flavors.

For instance, look at the origin of the ever popular butter chicken, also know as murgh makhni in Hindi. Its evolution is traced back to Kundan Lal Gujral, the owner of Moti Mahal restaurant at Daryangaj, Delhi (the one that currently functions there is not part of the same business). It is a fascinating tale of political, cultural and culinary happenings staged in the twentieth-century.

Fiery Chicken Roast — spicy, addictive flavors

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Life is beautiful. Beauty-full, yes.

I have a crush, I must confess. Nah, nah, don’t get me wrong. It’s nothing complicated. Just, er, this.

Have you joined Pinterest yet? If not, you’re in for a treat. It’s visual addiction. Bewitching, simply.

Lately, I’ve been clicking around www for hours, perusing my passions in this fascinating space. Discovering. Sharing. Stumbling upon inspiring sites, learning new ideas, falling in love with fresh talents. Finding products that whisper my name, images that flutter my heart, words that touch my soul. It’s a stage for relentless eye-candy, particularly for the text-weary eyes. I find myself sucked into this tempting time wrap every time I log in. The best part? It does not demand much. For all you do is, click, drool, pin—as simple as that. I’ve become a pinning enthusiast constantly cataloging delicious food, lovely props, inspiring quotes, amazing photographs and all kinds of interests to my ever-increasing pinboards that work like a visual curation. 

Pressured-cooked Chicken Pulao or Pilaf with Raita and Pickles — easy, hearty, satisfying meal

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Despite the chill in the air, the sun is bright and warm. As I look past the French window in our dining room, I cannot help but admire the sight of these sporadic visitors—parrots—squawking around as if they are celebrating the season. I see them everywhere in the afternoons: in our garden, under the roof tiles, or just fleeting about. Then there are these small birds—I’m no ornithologist and I’m not exactly sure, but I think they are sparrows—perched on my frangipani tree with their cheep and chirrup notes that sound like a happy melody. I could let my whole day slip away peacefully, finding inspiration just about anywhere I look, enjoying the simple pleasures of life. Sometimes it is the wonder of a bright blue winter sky studded with clouds—mind you, clouds are not a regular sight in Qatar. Or, the sudden downpour of rain... fresh blooms in the garden... fallen leaves fluttering in the wind... Sights that we often take for granted, or go unnoticed when we don’t have the time. I revel in the beauty of these little, little scenes before me.

It inspires me, lifts my spirit and makes me live in the present.

Kerala chicken roast — permission to indulge, granted!

Featured on Season with Spice: Spices unearthed, turmeric

You know that moment when you can’t bring yourself to jot down a few good lines despite futile attempts to gather your thoughts? Frankly, this is one of those weeks for me. The spark is missing and I can hardly think straight. Even a jolt of caffeine or the tempo of my old favorite tune from Dido in the background can’t seem to do the trick today. So, in an attempt to spice up things, I’m going straight to this finger-licking recipe that’s guaranteed to warm the chilly evenings coming our way soon.

Chicken Puffs — light, crisp, flaky pastries stuffed with spicy chicken filling —a stunning starter for any occasion

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Featured on the Kitchn delicious links

Would you believe me if I told you how everything keeps happening at such great pace that I find it challenging to keep up with the swing? Oh yeah, it's true. Or that's how I feel at least. With no surprise. As expectations run high this month; heat index is at its highest; and we are in the middle of spiritual, physical and mental restrains.

Preparing for Iftar usually takes up a lot of my energy, thoughts and time. The highlight of the day being the table laid for a memorable meal with family and friends—sometimes elaborate, sometimes simple—by sunset.

Summer Salad with Lean Chicken Breast and Avocado

It's the height of summer season with the heat literally slowing you down, phew! 

How about a salad? Something light and healthy, something that’s feasible to make and delicious to eat? Well, if you feel like munching a salad, what could be better than this one that ticks all the boxes!!? 

Yes, this lean chicken breast and avocado salad makes an easy, feel good, solo meal, ideal for a long hot day or lazy summer night. Bonus? It’s super healthy without any calorie penalty.

Spiced, Deep-fried Chicken — Chicken 65

When it comes to savory chicken dishes, my family and I totally love chicken 65. The name sounds intriguing, huh? Well, the varied stories on how it came upon this identity are even more interesting — check out wikipedia when you have a moment.

In a nutshell, Chicken 65 is deep-fried chicken in a piquant sauce. The symphony of flavors come to life in just one mouthful, making them perfect little bites for a cocktail party, or an excellent snack. A spike of lemon right before serving adds a refreshing zest. Nothing overpowering, just the right balance, I would say. What more? There’s absolutely no difficulty in making this downright irresistible dish.

Grilled Chicken Mortadella Sandwich

I guess I’m coming down with a cold, so I’m not staying for a chat.

This is another no fuss recipe. All you need to do is fill two slices of Italian bread with the ingredients and grill—nothing can go wrong. My family enjoys the balance of flavors and textures offered by this delicious, warm sandwich. Oh, and it's healthy too—total guilt free indulgence! I hope you try it and enjoy it as much as we do.

Chicken Cutlets

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Cutlets, or croquettes, are my comfort food. I totally love these crispy fried patties packed with flavor. One bite and I’m hooked. Especially homemade ones, nothing can beat homemade! This is our family staple for Iftar, an all-time favorite with the kids.