Every family has its own preferred ratio of spices in their chai masala. I like my chai to be a bit heavier on the cardamom and ginger side! For this chai masala, I freshly grind all the spices before blending them together. I use this chai masala quite a lot for baking, but you can … Read more
If you’re new to cooking with paneer, you’ve been missing out. Made from cow or buffalo milk, this unaged fresh cheese boasts a low-moisture content that keeps its texture firm and springy, even when cooked—much like halloumi or queso panela (a.k.a. Mexican grilling cheese). Traditionally used in South Asian cuisines, like Indian, Sri Lankan, Pakistani, … Read more
This palak paneer recipe takes the simple-is-best approach: Frozen spinach leaves blended with hot water, paneer pan-fried in ghee, and very few add-ins to get in the way. If you’re looking to make a home-cooked version of the North Indian restaurant-style classic for the first time, this is a great place to start. The technique … Read more
If you’re serving an array of Indian dishes, having a side dish of raita—right alongside the chutney—is nonnegotiable. A staple of many Indian cuisines, this cooling condiment is a refreshing yogurt dip or sauce that complements everything from weeknight kebabs and parathas to celebration-worthy dishes like biryani or pulao. This raita recipe gets its creamy … Read more
Whenever I was tight on time in college (but plenty hungry), you’d likely find me at a nearby street vendor, awaiting my turn at one of their paneer kathi rolls. Despite the plethora of options, this popular Indian street food, also known as Paneer Frankie, was always my go-to: Creamy paneer cubes, bell peppers, and … Read more
The best mango chutney starts with firm-to-ripe fresh mangoes. While you can use defrosted frozen mangos in a pinch, they don’t have the same texture or beautifully balanced sweetness and acidity. Fruit notwithstanding, this mango chutney recipe is almost endlessly customizable. Add a pinch of cardamom, nigella seeds, mustard seeds, or black pepper to your … Read more
Holi is the Hindu festival of colors and welcomes the arrival of spring in India. There are many delicacies that are prepared during the celebrations, but one is particularly special: dahi vada, also known as dahi bhalla. This is a beloved Indian snack of fermented lentil dumplings that are fried until golden brown, then soaked … Read more