Mint raita

I always want some change from the routine things. When we want it for the main courses, why not for the raita? Instead of the regular raitas, the mint raita is great with any kind of pulao. Pulaos have a mild flavor of the spices, so the mint raita pairs well with them. And we both are mint lovers. We like mint in all forms, body coolant, mint pulao, mint chutney, and now mint raita.

Cucumber Mojito - nonalcoholic version

   During summer, many people suffer from dehydration so they tend to consume a drink that replenishes the liquid and required body salts lost from perspiration. Drinking juices in summer has so many benefits; they boost energy, help to overcome fatigue and work wonder to prevent dehydration. Also, they are an excellent source of vitamins, enzymes and minerals. Additionally, they are low in calories and have immune boosting properties. Summer is a great season to enjoy ice-cold, berry-laden milk shakes, old-fashioned lemonade, smoothies and punches. For healthy summer fruit drinks, try to include wide range of fruits as you can, such as raspberries, strawberries, blueberries, red and black currants, etc as these are the excellent sources of restorative nutrients. These easy beverage recipes allow you to chill out and relish sweet 'n' flavorful summer fruits.

Juicy grapes, water melons, melting pears and mangoes are all packed with the goodness of summer. Throw the fake chemical concoctions in support of natural cocktails that emphasize wholesome ingredients like fruits, vegetables, coconut water and herbs. The king of the fruits, mango is the hot favorite of summer season. While selecting summer drinks, keep in mind that fresh fruit juices are a hundred times healthier, tastier, and cheaper than juice mixes and bottled aerated drinks. Some ready-made drinks contain dyes, artificial fruit-flavors, high fructose corn syrup, and gums to thicken the drink to a desirable consistency. Thus, it doesn't sound like an energizing way to enjoy a hot summer days. So enjoy this delicious and healthy Summer Fruit Drinks.

Cucumber Mojito

This natural drink includes cucumbers that contain a mineral named "silica" which may be advantageous for healthy skin, hair and nails.

You need:
lime, juiced - 1
seedless cucumber, partly peeled & sliced - 2 cups
cold water - 2 cups
fresh mint, loosely packed - 1/2 cup
raw honey - 1 tsp
Crushed ice

Method

First puree lime, cucumber, honey and water in a blender until it becomes smooth. Then, pour this puree on cluttered fresh mint and crushed ice. Make use of a wooden spoon to crush mint & ice together. Mint leaves can be cut with the rough ice edges and release their flavor. Or you can blend them together and then filter. I prefer to drink this way!


Have a fresh & cool summer day!

Mint pulao

Mint is an extremely versatile herb, complements dishes both sweet and savory from a wide array of cuisines, ethnic or else. It has the ability to bring freshness to any dish and not a subtle flavor at all.
Mint can be an ingredient in a main course or a dessert, sprinkled on a snack, used to enliven leftovers, or to bring the gourmet touch to a fancy dinner. You can enjoy mint at breakfast, lunch or dinner.

You need
2 cups Basmati Rice
6-8 green chillies
2 cups fresh Mint leaves

1 Carrot diced
½ cup peas
1 potato diced
1 onion thinly sliced
2 Cardomom pods
2 Cloves
1” pc Cinnamon stick
1 Bay leaf (dry)
3-4 tbsps oil
1 tsp Ginger Garlic paste
Salt to taste
Few drops Lemon juice
Water to cook rice

1. Heat oil in a pressure cooker. Add cardamom, cloves, cinnamon stick and the bay leaf. Fry till fragrant and then add the sliced onions and chilli

2. Fry till they are soft and transparent. Add the ginger garlic paste and fry for a few minutes. Now add the mint, stir for 2 minutes and grind the masala to a nice paste.

3. Now add the veggies. Mix well and add the measured water and close lid. 

4. When the steam begins to rise, reduce heat and add the washed strained basmati rice. Add salt and lime juice, mix well and close lid with weight. Cook on low heat for 10 minutes. 

5. Mix well before serving.Serve with Body cooling salad with or without yoghurt.

Sandwich chutney

Sandwich chutney is also the green chutney which is used for almost everything! It is so yummy, sometimes we have it with idli, dosai also!