Monday, December 22, 2025
Home Blog Page 1255

Sania Mirza gives us a glimpse of her delectable Iftar spread with son

0
Sania mirza

Sania Mirza, renowned as one of the greatest Indian tennis players, has six Grand Slam titles under her belt and serves as a role model for sports enthusiasts worldwide. However, her passion for food is what truly endears her to us.

With 11.5 million followers on Instagram, she keeps them abreast of her culinary adventures. Her latest post, which provides a glimpse into her mouthwatering Iftar feast in Dubai, is particularly tantalizing.

On Instagram, Sania Mirza shared a glimpse of her Iftar feast, relishing the delectable spread with her son Izhaan. The table was adorned with an array of dishes, including sandwiches, seviyan, juice, yogurt, salad, bhaji, and what appears to be dhokla, accompanied by a bowl of chutney and lemon wedges. Before starting the meal, Sania can be seen guiding her son on how to pray.

The post’s caption read, “Iftaar with my (heart) emoji #Ramdankareen #iftaar.” Check out the entire post here:

Sania Mirza is no stranger to sharing her foodie adventures on social media. Whether it’s a delicious Indian meal or a tempting dessert, she loves to indulge in her favorite foods. In a recent Instagram post, she shared a glimpse of her Iftar spread in Dubai, but this is not the first time she has done so. In a previous post, Sania was seen at a popular restaurant in Dubai with her friend and fellow tennis player, Bethanie Mattek-Sands, indulging in delectable kebabs and jalebi.

Back in January, Sania Mirza shared her love for South Indian cuisine by posting a photo on Instagram Stories. The picture showed a half-eaten idli immersed in a bowl of sambar. Sania captioned it “Home” with a red heart emoji, indicating her fondness for this particular dish.

Advertisement

Consumers to pay more for eggs as global prices projected to stay high in 2023

0
eggs

According to a recent report from Rabobank, a Dutch investment bank, global egg prices are projected to stay at record-high levels until the conclusion of 2023. This can be attributed to factors such as bird flu and rising expenses related to feed.

The FAO Food Price Index, which has been in a steady decline since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, has been a rough indicator of egg prices, which have also followed a similar trend.

According to RaboResearch, the research arm of Dutch investment bank Rabobank, egg prices have more than doubled in the first quarter of 2023 compared to the same period last year.

“Rabobank’s global egg price monitor reached a new record in Q1 2023, with the index now peaking above 250, which means prices are 2.5 times higher than the reference year of 2007, and have increased more than 100% since this time last year,” explained Nan-Dirk Mulder, senior analyst at Rabobank.

High feed costs also have a big influence on prices. “Feed represents 60% to 70% of a layer farmer’s costs, so any change or uncertainty surrounding feed costs affects egg prices and supply,” claimed Mulder.

And the forecast remains steady for the rest of the year, particularly for countries still struggling with avian influenza. “The fast spread of AI in Latin America, for example, has had a big impact, with prices spiking in the countries most affected by outbreaks,” the report stated.

Mulder cited previous egg-price peaks which were followed by “similar price drops one to two years later”. He said: “This is usually caused by producers’ response to periods of higher margins. They typically increase hen numbers to try to tap into higher prices, thus creating oversupply.”

However, this time he is not hopeful price rises will follow the same trend. “We think prices will go down in countries and regions with extreme price peaks like the US, Europe, and Japan, but likely not to the sorts of lows we have seen following other crises,” he said.

FoodDrinkEurope opted not to provide a comment regarding the report. The report highlights that the producer price index (PPI) for food and drinks is currently higher than consumer price inflation for food in the EU.

According to the report, the producer price index (PPI) for food and drinks in December increased by 20.1% over the last year, compared to a food inflation rate of 18.2%. The report also indicated that animal feed experienced a 22% increase.

Advertisement

US-based Aqua Cultured Foods secures $5.5M seed funding to launch plant-based seafood alternatives

0
Aqua Cultured Foods

Aqua Cultured Foods, a start-up in the United States that focuses on producing plant-based seafood, has raised $5.5 million in its most recent seed funding round. This brings the company’s total amount of funds raised to $7.6 million.

The company stated that the investment will be utilized to prepare its new facility, expand production capacity, and ultimately launch its products in the market.

In its efforts to distribute its products, the Chicago-based company intends to expand its team and form additional partnerships with restaurant and foodservice outlets later this year.

Aqua Cultured Foods is utilizing its unique “proprietary mycoprotein fermentation process” to produce various seafood alternatives, including calamari, shrimp, scallops, and fish fillets. The company also creates minced fillings for dumplings, ravioli, and sushi rolls to replicate the taste and texture of seafood.

Stray Dog, a US-based venture capital fund that focuses on investments in alternative-protein, led the fundraising round, acknowledging Aqua’s “immense potential.”

Anne Palermo, Aqua CEO, said of the investment: “We appreciate having mission-aligned partners that offer strong strategic value for the next phase of our growth, which will involve building up the business and brand.

“Being good stewards of investor capital is important to us, so along with hitting milestones earlier than expected, we are benefiting from government programmes, academic resources, and other advantages to get to market quickly.” 

Johnny Ream, Stray Dog Capital partner, said the firm was looking for companies “leveraging unique technologies and approaches that drive a more sustainable future”. He added, “The work Aqua is doing with alt-seafood has immense potential to drive both human and planetary benefits in a massive $100bn+ global market.”

The business, co-founded by Anne Palermo and Brittany Chibe, raised $2.1 million in a pre-seed round in 2021 from a group of global investors. These investors included early-stage venture-capital firm Supply Change Capital from Los Angeles, peer Aera VC from New Zealand, and Sustainable Food Ventures located in North Carolina.

During an interview, CEO Palermo explained the fermented technology that the company utilizes, stating that they create a nutrient-rich broth which is then inoculated with their unique strain of fungi spores. The environment, temperature, acidity, and nutrients are carefully controlled to facilitate the growth and development of the fungi.

“Basically, it’s a very new and different way of producing mushrooms. Rather than growing them on a solid substrate such as coconut husks or sawdust, we are growing protein in a liquid broth.”

In the latest funding round, CJ Foods, a manufacturer and distributor of Asian foods, also participated.

Advertisement

Barista Coffee expands its reach with 350th store launch in Udaipur, aims for 500 stores nationwide by 2025

0
barista1

Barista Coffee Company has achieved a significant milestone by launching its 350th store in the City of Lakes, Udaipur, as part of its commitment to providing customers with a global coffee culture and café experience.

Having established its presence in over 100 cities worldwide, the brand is now commemorating its 23rd year in the coffee business.

Rajat Agrawal, CEO Barista, said, “At Barista, we are expanding our footprint across the country in a strategic manner and plan to be at 500 store count over the next 2 years. The objective is to connect with the larger community and be accessible for our consumers at multiple touch points.”

Barista provides an extensive range of beverages, including both coffee and non-coffee options, as well as delicious all-day snacks to satisfy any craving.

Apart from their café portfolio, Barista has also broadened their horizons by introducing a casual dining format with their flagship Barista Diner.

“Over the past few years we have expanded well in tourist destinations and Udaipur is the latest entrant to the list. We are excited to be brewing in Udaipur and look to serve both Domestic and International guests at this store,” Rajat added.

Since its inception in the year 2000 as Barista Coffee Company Limited, the brand has been committed to delivering an unparalleled global coffeehouse experience and culture to its patrons.

Advertisement

Papa John’s expands partnership with PJP Investments Group to open 650 new restaurants in India by 2033

0
Papa Johns

Papa John’s International has announced that it is expanding its partnership with PJP Investments Group, one of its longest-standing international franchisees, to open 650 restaurants in India by 2033.

The first of these new restaurants is set to open in Bangalore in 2024, followed by openings in other cities across South India and later in other regions of the country.

Papa John’s is drawn to the potential of the Indian market, with its significant size and a middle class that is experiencing growing income and aspirations. This presents an appealing business opportunity for the company to expand its operations.

“Papa Johns global momentum continues, in partnership with seasoned, successful restaurant operators like PJP Investments,” said Amanda Clark, Papa Johns Chief International and Development Officer by adding that PJP Investments first partnered with Papa Johns to expand into the UAE in 2005.

“We are excited that their commitment to flawless execution of Papa John’s high standards is now being brought to India,” added Clark.

PJP Investments Group, known for managing over 100 Papa John’s restaurants in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan, is slated to open the first Papa John’s restaurant in India in 2024.

Under the leadership of CEO Tapan Vaidya, PJP Investments Group has become one of the earliest international franchisees of Papa John’s to embrace a modern restaurant design that is enhancing Papa John’s experience worldwide.

“We are excited to bring the BETTER INGREDIENTS. BETTER PIZZA. promise of Papa Johns to pizza lovers in India. Building on the success of our partnership with Papa Johns in the Middle East, this expansion of the renowned brand in South Asia will introduce an enormous new customer base to the superior quality pizza that can come only from high-quality ingredients and our fresh, never-frozen original dough,” pointed Vaidya.

Over the next 10 years, PJP Investments Group intends to operate approximately 1,000 Papa John’s restaurants. Papa John’s has recently attracted new international franchisees such as FountainVest Partners, a leading independent private equity firm in Asia, which plans to open more than 1,750 new Papa John’s restaurants in China by 2040. Furthermore, the company has expanded agreements with its existing franchisees.

Advertisement

Try this mouthwatering Cauliflower Pakoda recipe for a tasty snack time treat

0
Cauliflower Pakoda

Cauliflower Pakoda is a popular Indian snack made from cauliflower florets coated in a spiced chickpea flour batter and deep-fried until crispy. It is a variation of the traditional pakoda, which is a deep-fried snack made with vegetables, gram flour, and spices. 

Cauliflower pakoda is typically served with chutney or ketchup and is a popular street food in India. It is a delicious and flavorful snack that can be enjoyed at any time of the day.

This snack is easy to prepare and doesn’t take much time to make. If you are looking for a quick snack to serve your guests, cauliflower pakoras are the perfect choice.

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium-sized cauliflower
  • 1 cup chickpea flour
  • 1/4 cup rice flour
  • 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1 tsp red chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1/2 tsp garam masala powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • Salt to taste
  • Oil for deep-frying
  • Water as required

Preparation:

  1. Clean and cut cauliflower into small florets.
  2. In a mixing bowl, add chickpea flour, rice flour, ginger-garlic paste, cumin seeds, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix all the ingredients well.
  3. Gradually add water to make a thick batter. Make sure that there are no lumps in the batter.
  4. Heat oil in a deep pan or kadhai on medium flame.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Dip each cauliflower floret in the batter, making sure it is coated well.
  2. Carefully drop the cauliflower floret into the hot oil.
  3. Fry the pakoras until they turn golden brown and crispy.
  4. Use a slotted spoon to remove the pakoras from the oil and place them on a paper towel to absorb any excess oil.
  5. Repeat the process for the remaining cauliflower florets.
  6. Serve hot with your favorite chutney or sauce.

Tips for making the best cauliflower pakoras:

  1. Make sure that the cauliflower florets are dried well before dipping them into the batter. This will help the batter to stick to the cauliflower florets.
  2. Add water gradually to the batter to avoid a runny batter.
  3. Use fresh oil for deep frying. Do not reuse oil for frying the pakoras.
  4. Fry the pakoras on medium flame to ensure that they are cooked evenly.
  5. Do not overcrowd the pan while frying the pakoras. Fry in small batches.

Serving Suggestions:

Cauliflower pakoras can be served as a snack or as a side dish. They are perfect to serve with tea or coffee. You can also serve them as an appetizer before the main course. These pakoras go well with mint chutney, tamarind chutney, or tomato ketchup.

Cauliflower pakoras are a popular snack that is enjoyed by many people. They are easy to prepare and can be made in no time. This recipe is perfect for those who want to make a quick snack for their guests. You can also make this snack for your family as an evening snack. Try out this recipe and impress your guests with your culinary skills.

Advertisement

Add a touch of Bihari charm to your dinner party with this Chicken Champaran

0
Chicken Champaran

Bihar is one of the states in India, known for its rich culture and food. The food here is mainly dominated by vegetarian dishes, but there are some exceptional non-vegetarian dishes as well, and one such dish is Chicken Champaran. 

Chicken Champaran gets its name from the Champaran district in Bihar, where it originated. The dish has a history dating back to the British era, and it is believed that the British introduced the dish to the people of Champaran. The locals, however, added their own twist to the recipe, and thus the unique taste of Chicken Champaran was born.

This dish is a perfect example of how a unique combination of spices can elevate the taste of a simple chicken dish.

Chicken Champaran is a dish that is rich in protein, thanks to the chicken. It also contains essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, vitamin B6, vitamin K, iron, and zinc. However, it is also a dish that is high in calories and fat, so it should be consumed in moderation. 

Ingredients:

  • 500 grams chicken
  • 3 tablespoons mustard oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon ginger paste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic paste
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 green chillies, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon red chilli powder
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • Salt, to taste
  • Fresh coriander leaves, chopped

Method:

  1. Heat the mustard oil in a pan and add the chopped onion. Fry until it turns golden brown.
  2. Add the ginger and garlic paste to the pan and fry for a minute.
  3. Add the chopped tomatoes and green chillies to the pan and fry until the tomatoes are soft and mushy.
  4. Add the red chilli powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and garam masala to the pan and fry for a minute.
  5. Add the chicken to the pan and fry for 5 minutes.
  6. Add salt to taste and 1 cup of water to the pan. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked.
  7. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with rice or roti.

Chicken Champaran is a delicious and healthy dish that is loved by people across the country. It is easy to prepare and can be enjoyed with rice, roti, or naan. The dish is a perfect example of the rich culinary traditions of Bihar, which has given the world many such unique and flavorful dishes.

If you are looking to add a Bihari touch to your dinner, Chicken Champaran is a dish that you must try. It is a perfect blend of spices, herbs, and vegetables that will leave your taste buds craving for more. So, go ahead and try this delicious dish and enjoy the flavors of Bihar.

Advertisement

Delight your kids with this easy and delicious Maggi Cheese Balls recipe!

0
Maggi Cheese Balls

Maggi, a popular snack food brand, has been a favorite among children for many years. Whether it’s Maggi noodles or Maggi sauce, children seem to love everything about it. In recent years, Maggi has introduced a new product to its lineup, Maggi Cheese Balls. These crunchy, cheesy snacks are easy to make and perfect for kids.

Maggi Cheese Balls are a fun and delicious snack that can be enjoyed by children of all ages. They are made using Maggi noodles, cheese, and a few other ingredients that are readily available in your kitchen.

While Maggi Cheese Balls may not be the healthiest snack out there, they do have some nutritional value. Cheese is a good source of calcium, which is essential for the growth and development of strong bones and teeth. Maggi noodles, on the other hand, are a good source of carbohydrates, which provide the body with energy.

However, it’s important to note that Maggi Cheese Balls are fried, which means they are high in fat and calories. Therefore, it’s best to enjoy them in moderation and pair them with healthier snacks like fruits and vegetables.

Ingredients required for Maggi Cheese Balls:

To make Maggi Cheese Balls, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 1 packet of Maggi noodles
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup grated cheese
  • 1/2 cup bread crumbs
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes
  • Salt to taste
  • Oil for frying

Recipe for Maggi Cheese Balls:

Now that you have gathered all the ingredients, let’s get started with the recipe for Maggi Cheese Balls:

Step 1: Cook Maggi noodles in 1 cup of water according to the instructions on the packet. Once cooked, drain the water and set aside the noodles.

Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked Maggi noodles, grated cheese, bread crumbs, all-purpose flour, black pepper, red chili flakes, and salt. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly combined.

Step 3: Using your hands, shape the mixture into small balls.

Step 4: Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, gently drop the cheese balls into the oil and fry until golden brown. Make sure to flip the cheese balls occasionally to ensure they are cooked evenly.

Step 5: Once the cheese balls are cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

Your Maggi Cheese Balls are now ready to serve! You can serve them with ketchup or any other dipping sauce of your choice.

Maggi Cheese Balls are a fun and delicious snack that children will love. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can make this tasty snack at home. Remember to enjoy them in moderation and pair them with healthier snacks for a balanced diet.

Advertisement

Elevate your home party with these perfectly crispy and delicious French Fries

0

When it comes to hosting a home party, one of the most important things to consider is the food. And when it comes to food, there are few things more classic and universally loved than French fries.

Whether you’re hosting a small gathering with friends or a large family event, French fries are the ultimate snack that everyone can enjoy. 


Here, we’ll explore why French fries are the perfect choice for home parties and provide tips for making the perfect batch.

  • French fries are universally loved:

No matter what your guests’ tastes or preferences are, everyone can appreciate a good batch of French fries. They are the perfect snack food that can be enjoyed by all ages and can be paired with a variety of different dipping sauces.

Whether you prefer ketchup, ranch dressing, or something more exotic like garlic aioli, there’s a dipping sauce to suit every taste.

  • French fries are easy to make:

To make French fries, all you need is potatoes, oil, and some basic seasoning, and you can whip up a batch of delicious fries in no time. You don’t need any fancy equipment or complicated cooking techniques, making French fries a perfect choice for even the most novice home cooks. Plus, you can customize the seasoning to suit your guests’ preferences, whether they like their fries crispy and salty or soft and lightly seasoned.

  • French fries are affordable:

Potatoes are one of the most inexpensive vegetables, and a large bag can provide enough fries for a big group of guests. Compared to other snack foods like chips or crackers, French fries are a great option if you’re hosting a party on a budget. Plus, you can make a large batch of fries and let your guests serve themselves, which can save you time and effort.

  • French fries are easy to serve: 

French fries are the perfect snack for home parties as they are easy to serve. You can serve them in a large bowl or on a platter, and your guests can help themselves. This can be a great option if you’re hosting a large group and don’t want to spend all night in the kitchen. Plus, French fries are a perfect snack for any type of party, whether it’s a casual gathering with friends or a more formal family event.

  • French fries are customizable: 

You can experiment with different types of potatoes, such as sweet potatoes or purple potatoes, to add some color and variety to your fries. You can also customize the seasoning and dipping sauces to suit your guests’ preferences, which can make your party even more memorable. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try making loaded fries with toppings like bacon, cheese, and jalapenos.

Why McCain French fries are the ultimate classic snack for a home party:

McCain French fries are a popular and classic snack that has been enjoyed by people all over the world for many years. They are a staple at home parties, and for good reason. Here are some of the reasons why they are best for home parties:

  • Convenience: One of the biggest advantages of McCain French fries is their convenience. They are easy to prepare, require minimal effort, and can be cooked quickly. All you need to do is pop them in the oven or fry them up, and you have a delicious snack ready in no time. This makes them perfect for parties, where you want to spend more time socializing with your guests than cooking in the kitchen.
  • Versatility: McCain French fries are also incredibly versatile. They can be served as a side dish with burgers, hot dogs, or sandwiches, or they can be the main attraction of your party. You can dress them up with different toppings such as cheese, bacon, or chili, or keep them simple with just a sprinkle of salt. The possibilities are endless, making them a perfect snack for any occasion.
  • Cost-effective: Another advantage of McCain French fries is that they are cost-effective. They are much cheaper than ordering food from a restaurant, and you can buy them in bulk to save even more money. This makes them perfect for parties, where you need to feed a lot of people without breaking the bank.
  • Crowd-pleaser: McCain French fries are a crowd-pleaser, and it’s hard to find someone who doesn’t enjoy them. They are loved by kids and adults alike, making them a perfect snack for all ages. Plus, they are a classic snack that brings back memories of childhood, making them a nostalgic choice for many people.
  • Easy to serve: Serving McCain French fries is also incredibly easy. You can serve them on a platter with different dipping sauces, or you can put them in individual cups or cones for a more upscale presentation. Either way, they are easy to eat and don’t require any utensils, making them perfect for a casual home party.
  • Perfect for sharing: Finally, McCain French fries are perfect for sharing. They come in a large bag, which makes them easy to pass around and share with your guests. Plus, since they are a finger food, they encourage socializing and interaction among your guests.

McCain French fries are not only a classic snack, but they are also a high-quality product. McCain is a well-known and respected brand in the food industry, and their French fries are made with high-quality potatoes and cooked in premium oils. This ensures that you get a delicious and crispy fry every time. So why wait, buy McCain French fries now and make your home party a memorable one.

Advertisement

5 must-try South Indian restaurants in Delhi/NCR to satisfy your cravings

0

South Indian cuisine is a melting pot of flavors and spices that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. Delhi is home to a plethora of restaurants that specialize in South Indian cuisine. 

From traditional dosas and idlis to spicy curries and tangy chutneys, there is something for everyone in the city.


Here, we will take a look at the top 5 South Indian restaurants to visit in Delhi/NCR:.

  1. Sagar Ratna:
    Sagar Ratna is a popular chain of South Indian restaurants that has several branches across Delhi. The restaurant is known for its delicious dosas, idlis, vadas, and uttapams. 

The food here is prepared using authentic South Indian spices and is served hot and fresh. The prices are reasonable, and a meal for two can cost around INR. 500-700. The ambiance of the restaurant is simple, and the service is quick and efficient. 

Some of the must-try dishes at Sagar Ratna include the Mysore Masala Dosa, Onion Uttapam, and Medu Vada.

  1. Carnatic Café:
    Carnatic Cafe is a hidden gem located in South Delhi that serves authentic South Indian cuisine. The restaurant has a cozy ambiance and is decorated with traditional South Indian artifacts. The food here is prepared using fresh ingredients and is cooked to perfection. 

The menu features a wide range of dishes, including dosas, idlis, vadas, and thalis. The prices are reasonable, and a meal for two can cost around INR. 800-1000. 

Some of the must-try dishes at Carnatic Cafe include the Malabar Parotta, Appam, and Filter Coffee.

  1. Andhra Bhavan:
    Andhra Bhavan is a government-run canteen that serves traditional Andhra cuisine. The restaurant is located in Connaught Place and is known for its spicy curries and tangy chutneys. 

The food here is prepared using authentic Andhra spices and is served on a banana leaf. The prices are reasonable, and a meal for two can cost around INR. 500-700. The ambiance of the restaurant is simple, and the service is quick and efficient. Some of the must-try dishes at Andhra Bhavan include the Hyderabadi Biryani, Andhra Chicken Curry, and Pesarattu.

  1. Naivedyam:
    Naivedyam is a popular South Indian restaurant located in Hauz Khas Village. The restaurant has a modern ambiance and is decorated with South Indian artwork. The food here is prepared using authentic South Indian spices and is served in traditional brass utensils. 

The menu features a wide range of dishes, including dosas, idlis, vadas, and thalis. The prices are reasonable, and a meal for two can cost around INR. 800-1000. Some of the must-try dishes at Naivedyam include the Pongal, Gunpowder Idli, and Filter Coffee.

  1. Mahabelly:
    Mahabelly is a high-end South Indian restaurant located in Saket. The restaurant is known for its traditional Kerala cuisine and is decorated with traditional Kerala artifacts. The food here is prepared using fresh ingredients and is cooked to perfection. 

The menu features a wide range of dishes, including seafood, meat, and vegetarian options. The prices are on the higher side, and a meal for two can cost around INR. 2000-2500. Some of the must-try dishes at Mahabelly include the Karimeen Pollichathu, Appam with Chicken Stew, and Tender Coconut Payasam.

Delhi has a lot to offer when it comes to South Indian cuisine. From traditional canteens to high -end restaurants, there is something for every budget and taste preference. So if you are in Delhi and craving some delicious South Indian food, head to one of these restaurants and indulge in a flavorful culinary experience.

Advertisement