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Actor Naga Chaitanya indulges in delicious Haleem in Hyderabad. See the pics

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Naga Chaitanya-hyderabad

Ramadan is a significant festival for Muslims around the world. It is a month-long period of fasting, prayer, and reflection. 

In India, Ramadan is celebrated with full fervour. Hyderabad is a city in the south of India known for its rich culture and history. During Ramadan, the city comes alive with lights and decorations, and the streets are filled with vendors selling traditional foods and sweets.

Akkineni Naga Chaitanya, a popular Indian actor known for his flamboyant style and impressive career, recently visited Hyderabad during Ramadan. He was keen to experience the holy festival in its most elementary form and chose Hyderabad as the place to be. One of Naga Chaitanya’s stops in Hyderabad was Cafe 555, a well-known eatery that serves the famous Ramzan-special haleem. 

Haleem is a dish that is popularly consumed in India, particularly during Ramadan. It is a unique blend of mashed meat, dal, and grains like wheat or barley. The recipe for haleem is not easy to master, but Cafe 555 seems to have got it just right, making it a popular choice among food enthusiasts.

The cafe wrote, “Thanks for visiting @cafe555_aqeeqrestaurant and enjoying our Haleem.”

Naga Chaitanya’s foodie adventure did not end here. He continued his outing by washing down his haleem with a cup of Irani chai from Hyderabad’s famous Niloufer Café. Irani chai is a type of tea that is served in small glasses and is a popular drink in Hyderabad.

Naga Chaitanya was accompanied by the director of his upcoming film ‘Custody’, Venkat Prabhu, and they enjoyed their tea while soaking in the festive atmosphere of Hyderabad during Ramadan.

Naga Chaitanya’s visit to Hyderabad during Ramadan has given us a glimpse into the culture and cuisine of the city. Hyderabad’s unique blend of history, culture, and food is something that is not to be missed, particularly during Ramadan when the city comes alive with festivities.

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Reliance-backed Dunzo eyes $50 Million in new funding round

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Dunzo
Dunzo (Representative Image)

Dunzo is a rapidly growing hyperlocal delivery startup based in Bengaluru, India. The company has been seeking to raise capital for several months and is now reportedly in the final stages of securing around $50 million in a new financing round, according to anonymous sources familiar with the matter. 

Among the investors currently in discussions to invest in the new funding round are Google and Reliance Retail, who are already existing backers of the company. While Dunzo had previously aimed to raise between $70 million and $150 million, it appears that the funding deliberations are primarily moving ahead with existing backers.

Dunzo faces fierce competition in India’s retail market, with competitors such as Swiggy’s Instamart, Zepto (backed by YC Continuity), BigBasket (owned by Tata), and Zomato’s BlinkIt all vying for a slice of the growing market, estimated to be worth over $800 billion by 2025. As a result, Dunzo has been working hard to secure funding amid a challenging economic climate.

Karthik Gurumurthy announced on Friday that he is stepping down from his position as the head of Swiggy’s Instamart business. Building Instamart has been “arduous with a lot of compromises on physical and mental wellbeing,” he wrote in a LinkedIn post.

The difficulties in raising new financing rounds are not limited to Dunzo, with delivery startups around the world experiencing similar challenges. In Europe, the rapid delivery market has consolidated down to just three companies, while Instacart has recently reduced its internal valuation from $39 billion to $10 billion. The current economic downturn has hit delivery startups particularly hard, given that they are often among the most cash-intensive businesses.

While the funding round is still ongoing, the news of Dunzo’s potential capital raise is undoubtedly welcome news for the company, which will undoubtedly help it expand its operations and continue to compete in India’s highly competitive retail market. 

Kabeer Biswas, Dunzo’s Co-founder and CEO, declined to comment on the matter, and both Google and Reliance Retail did not respond to requests for comment.

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Cloud-kitchen brand Edabba opens its first QSR outlet at Metro Cash & Carry in Kolkata

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Edabba

Edabba is a well-established cloud kitchen brand that has made a name for itself in the East India region. With its success in the cloud kitchen format, the brand has now ventured into the value-added QSR format with the launch of its first outlet at Metro Cash & Carry in Kolkata. 

The new QSR outlet is set to offer a wide range of cuisines from all of Edabba’s subsidiary brands, including Red Lantern, Ebowl, and Edabba, which are known for their Indian, Chinese, and oriental cuisines, respectively.

The outlet is located in a 350 square ft space and is capable of serving several customers at a time. Edabba’s signature Thalis, Combos, and Bowls are the main attraction on the menu, and the brand prides itself on using only the freshest and highest-quality ingredients in its dishes. This ensures that every meal served is both nutritious and delicious. 

In addition, the brand provides patrons with the option to curate their own bowls by selecting mains and accompaniments based on their preferences.

Vedant Pasari, Founder of Edabba said, “Our foray into the QSR format with the launch of our 12-seater outlet at Metro Cash n Carry is an exciting new chapter for Edabba. We’re thrilled to be able to expand our reach to even more customers, in a quick and convenient setting. This launch is just the beginning for us – we have big plans for expansion and are committed to redefining the QSR market with our innovative approach.”

Edabba’s mission is to provide quality food at affordable prices to its customers. This commitment to quality ingredients, customizable options, and economical price points is poised to disrupt the QSR market in Kolkata and beyond. With its cloud kitchen format, Edabba can easily scale up its operations and expand its reach across Kolkata and other cities in Pan-India.

Edabba’s unique approach to quick service dining is already gaining popularity among customers who appreciate quick, affordable, and customizable meals. The brand aspires to become the go-to choice for people on the go who are looking for a quick and tasty meal that doesn’t break the bank. With its ambitious expansion plans and focus on quality and affordability, Edabba is set to make a big impact in the QSR market.

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Nesco plans to transform Bombay Exhibition Centre into a vibrant food hub

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Bhushan Jalgaonkar-nesco

Nesco, a company that owns and operates the Bombay Exhibition Centre (BEC) complex, has recognized the need for quality food within the campus for both exhibitors and visitors. Seven years ago, the company invested in a state-of-the-art professional kitchen in the campus, which is considered to be one of the largest non-flight kitchens in the city, with a capacity to churn out 50,000 meals a day.

To ensure the investment in the kitchen was well-utilized, Nesco incorporated a 20,000 square-foot banqueting facility into the complex, creating new opportunities for corporate and social events.

Bhushan Jalgaonkar, the Vice-President of Nesco Foods, said, “Between October 2022 and February 2023 alone, nearly 50 weddings were held at the complex. The luxurious banquet facility spans 20,000 square-feet and is as opulent as any 5-star venue. Additionally, there is 20,000 square-feet of outdoor space available for events, providing ample options for guests to enjoy.”

To transform the complex into a premier food hub, the company has introduced three branded restaurants on the campus, featuring renowned high-street brands. The inclusion of an IT park within the complex has contributed to the success of the food retail business, offering over 20,000 employees working in the park as well as visitors a wide range of dining options. 

Jalgaonkar, said “The response has been overwhelming, these additions have helped establish the BEC complex as a destination not only for exhibitions but also for high-quality food and dining experiences”.

Despite the initial challenges faced in the first two years, Jalgaonkar acknowledges that the team of skilled chefs and support staff have gained valuable experience and expertise to cater to events of any scale and specifications. 

“We’ve served 17 different menus to 6,500 guests in just 1.5 hours. It’s this kind of capability that sets us apart from the competition”, said Jalgaonkar.

He added, “Our backend and frontend are fully integrated to deliver high-end corporate and social events such as weddings. This seamless integration and attention to detail have earned Nesco’s food business a reputation for excellence, ensuring that they remain a top choice for discerning clients seeking exceptional catering services”.

Over the next 2 to 3 years, Nesco plans to renovate many of their halls in a phased manner, incorporating food, dining, and meeting rooms into these new spaces. Additionally, the company has ambitious plans to establish a 400-room hotel within the complex. This strategic move will establish BEC as a unique integrated destination for events, entertainment, and hospitality in the city.

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From shakers to spirits: A beginner’s guide to building a home bar

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house bar

Setting up a bar at home can be a fun and exciting project for anyone who enjoys entertaining guests or simply wants to have a convenient place to make their favorite drinks. Whether you’re a seasoned bartender or a complete beginner, there are a few key things to consider when setting up a home bar. 

Here we cover everything you need to know to get started, from choosing the right equipment to stocking your bar with essential ingredients.

Choosing the right equipment:

Before you start stocking your bar with alcohol and mixers, you’ll need to invest in some basic equipment. Here are a few things to consider:

  1. Bar Cart or Home Bar: The first thing you’ll need to decide is whether you want to set up a dedicated home bar or use a bar cart. If you have the space, a home bar can be a great way to create a dedicated space for entertaining. However, if you’re short on space, a bar cart can be a great option since it can be easily moved from room to room.
  2. Shaker: A cocktail shaker is an essential tool for any home bar. Look for a shaker with a built-in strainer to make it easy to pour your drinks.
  3. Jigger: A jigger is a small measuring tool used to measure spirits and other ingredients. Look for a jigger with both ounce and milliliter measurements to ensure accuracy.
  4. Bar Spoon: A bar spoon is a long, thin spoon used for stirring cocktails. Look for a spoon with a twisted handle to make it easy to layer ingredients.
  5. Strainer: A strainer is used to remove ice and other solids from your drinks. Look for a Hawthorne strainer, which fits inside a cocktail shaker and strains out ice and other solids.
  6. Glassware: Finally, you’ll need to invest in a few different types of glassware, including rocks glasses, highball glasses, and martini glasses. Look for glasses that are both stylish and durable.

Stocking your bar with essential ingredients:

Now that you have your equipment in place, it’s time to start stocking your bar with essential ingredients. Here are a few things to consider:

  1. Spirits: The foundation of any good home bar is a selection of spirits. Start with a few basic options like vodka, gin, rum, tequila, and whiskey. You can always expand your collection later on.
  2. Mixers: In addition to spirits, you’ll need a variety of mixers to make your drinks. Look for options like tonic water, soda water, cranberry juice, orange juice, and lime juice.
  3. Bitters: Bitters are an essential ingredient in many classic cocktails. Look for options like Angostura bitters, which can be used in a wide range of drinks.
  4. Simple Syrup: Simple syrup is a mixture of sugar and water that is used to sweeten cocktails. You can buy pre-made simple syrup or make your own by boiling equal parts sugar and water.
  5. Ice: Finally, don’t forget about the ice! Invest in a good quality ice tray or ice maker to ensure 

Setting up your bar:

Now that you have all of your equipment and ingredients in place, it’s time to set up your bar. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

  1. Organize your equipment: Make sure that all of your equipment is easily accessible and organized in a way that makes sense for you. For example, you might want to keep your shaker and jigger together in one area and your strainer and bar spoon in another.
  2. Keep your spirits and mixers separate: To make it easy to find what you need , it’s a good idea to keep your spirits and mixers in separate areas. This will help you quickly identify what you need when making a drink and will also keep your bar looking neat and organized.
  3. Label your bottles: To avoid confusion and make it easy to find the right bottle, consider labeling your spirits and mixers. You can use a label maker or even just masking tape and a permanent marker.
  4. Display your glassware: Displaying your glassware can add a decorative element to your home bar while also making it easy to find the right glass for each drink. Consider installing shelves or a rack to showcase your collection.
  5. Add personal touches: Finally, don’t forget to add some personal touches to your home bar. This could be anything from a favorite cocktail recipe book to a piece of artwork that complements your bar’s decor.

Maintaining your home bar:

It’s important to maintain your bar to ensure that it stays in good condition. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

  1. Clean your equipment: After each use, make sure to clean your equipment thoroughly to prevent any residual flavors from mixing into your next drink. 

Most equipment can be cleaned with warm water and dish soap, but you may also want to invest in a bottle brush to clean out your shaker and strainer.

  1. Rotate your alcohol: To keep your alcohol fresh and prevent it from going bad, make sure to rotate your bottles regularly. Use older bottles first and store new bottles in the back.
  2. Keep your bar organized: Regularly clean and organize your bar to keep it looking neat and tidy. This will also make it easier to find what you need when making drinks.

Setting up a home bar can be a fun and rewarding project that allows you to entertain guests and make your favorite drinks in the comfort of your own home. By following the tips outlined in this article, you’ll be well on your way to creating a home bar that is both functional and stylish. 

Remember to choose the right equipment, stock up on essential ingredients, and maintain your bar to ensure that it stays in top condition for years to come.

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Apple and Peanut Butter – The best pre-workout snack for achieving your fitness goals

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peanut butter

Apple and peanut butter are a classic combination that have been enjoyed for generations. They are not only delicious and satisfying, but they are also an excellent pre-workout snack that can help you reach your fitness goals. 

Whether you are looking to build muscle, burn fat, or just improve your overall health, apple and peanut butter can provide the energy and nutrients necessary to fuel your workout and help you get the most out of it. In this article, we will discuss the many benefits of eating apple and peanut butter as a pre-workout snack and how it can help you reach your fitness goals.

The benefits of eating Apple and Peanut Butter:

One of the main benefits of eating apple and peanut butter as a pre-workout snack is that it provides your body with a good source of energy. Apples are high in natural sugars and are an excellent source of carbohydrates, which can help provide your body with the energy it needs to perform at its best. 

Peanut butter is high in healthy fats, which can help to keep you feeling satisfied for longer and can help to prevent you from reaching for unhealthy snacks or sugary treats. Peanut butter is also a good source of magnesium and potassium, which are important electrolytes that your body needs for muscle function and recovery.

Both apple and peanut butter are also a good source of protein, which is essential for building and maintaining muscle. Protein is an important macronutrient that helps to repair and rebuild muscle tissue after a workout, which can help to improve your strength and endurance over time.

Another benefit of apple and peanut butter as a pre-workout snack is that it can help regulate blood sugar levels. Apples are a low-glycemic index fruit, which means that they release sugar into your bloodstream slowly and steadily over time. This can help prevent spikes and crashes in your blood sugar levels, which can interfere with your energy levels during exercise. 

Apple and peanut butter is a portable and convenient snack that can be easily taken with you to the gym or to outdoor workouts. It requires no preparation, making it a quick and easy option for busy individuals who want to maximize their time and energy during their workout.

Moreover, apple and peanut butter can be a great pre-workout snack for individuals with food allergies or dietary restrictions. It is naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan, making it a versatile and inclusive option for individuals with different dietary needs.

So, if you are looking for a healthy and satisfying pre-workout snack, then apple and peanut butter is definitely a great option. Eating apple and peanut butter as a pre-workout snack can provide you with an instant energy boost & keep you motivated during your workout session.

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Get in shape like Megan Fox: Follow her diet for incredible results

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Megan Fox

To achieve the required physique, maintaining a healthy and balanced diet is crucial for celebrities. Megan Fox, an American actress, and model, is known for her slim and toned physique. In this article, we will explore Megan Fox’s diet routine and how it can help you stay in shape.

Megan Fox has credited the Five-Factor Diet for helping her stay in shape and maintain her weight.

What is the Five-Factor Diet?

The Five-Factor Diet is a nutrition plan that emphasizes the importance of consuming nutrient-dense foods that provide sustained energy throughout the day.  It focuses on consuming five small meals a day. The diet recommends that each meal should be composed of five components:

  • Protein: Protein helps build and repair muscle tissue and keeps you feeling full for longer. Good sources of protein include lean meats, fish, tofu, and legumes.
  • Complex carbohydrates: This component provides the body with energy and helps regulate blood sugar levels. Good sources of complex carbohydrates include whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
  • Fiber: Fiber promotes digestive health and helps keep you feeling full. Good sources of fiber include whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
  • Healthy fats: Healthy fats help reduce inflammation in the body and support brain function. Good sources of healthy fats include nuts, seeds, avocados, and fatty fish.
  • Sugar-free beverage: This component helps keep you hydrated and prevents the consumption of empty calories. Good options include water, herbal tea, and unsweetened almond milk.

The Five-Factor Diet also emphasizes the importance of regular exercise, stress management, and getting enough sleep.


Benefits of the Five-Factor Diet:

The Five-Factor Diet has many potential benefits for those looking to maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle. Some of these benefits include:

  • Improved nutrient intake: By focusing on consuming nutrient-dense foods, the Five-Factor Diet can help ensure that you are getting all the essential vitamins and minerals your body needs to function optimally.
  • Steady energy levels: Consuming five small meals a day that are composed of the five components can help provide sustained energy throughout the day, preventing energy crashes and keeping you feeling full and satisfied.
  • Weight management: By focusing on consuming nutrient-dense foods and controlling portion sizes, the Five-Factor Diet can help with weight management.
  • Improved digestion: The fiber component of the Five-Factor Diet can help promote digestive health and prevent constipation.
  • Reduced inflammation: Consuming healthy fats can help reduce inflammation in the body, which is linked to many chronic diseases.
  • Improved heart health: By consuming a diet rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, the Five-Factor Diet can help improve heart health by reducing the risk of heart disease.
  • Reduced risk of type 2 diabetes: Consuming complex carbohydrates can help regulate blood sugar levels, reducing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.


Maintaining a healthy and balanced diet is essential for optimal health and staying in shape. With that said, it’s important to note that everyone’s body is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. It’s also important to consult with a healthcare professional before making any significant changes to your diet or exercise routine.

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Taste the flavors of the sea: 8 best places to enjoy prawns in Delhi/NCR

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prawn craving

Prawns are a delicious seafood delicacy that is enjoyed by people all around the world. In Delhi/NCR, there are a plethora of restaurants that offer a wide range of prawn dishes, ranging from traditional Indian dishes to exotic Asian delicacies. If you are a seafood lover, then you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to finding the best prawn dishes in the city.

Here we will explore some of the best places to have prawns in Delhi/NCR.

  1. The Oriental Spice: The Oriental Spice is a popular chain of restaurants that serves Chinese and Thai cuisine. With multiple outlets across Delhi/NCR, this restaurant is a go-to place for those who are looking for some delicious prawn dishes.

The prawn dishes at The Oriental Spice are a highlight of their menu, especially the crispy fried prawns and prawn garlic noodles. The restaurant has a pleasant ambience and is ideal for family dinners.

The price range for prawn dishes is between INR 500-1000.

  1. Chowman: Chowman is another popular chain of restaurants that serves Chinese and Thai cuisine. With multiple outlets across Delhi/NCR, their prawn dishes are prepared with fresh and succulent prawns, making them a must-try for seafood lovers.

The restaurant has a sophisticated ambience and is perfect for a romantic dinner or a business meeting. The price range for prawn dishes is between INR 500-1000.

  1. Royal China: Royal China is known for its authentic Chinese cuisine and has multiple outlets across Delhi/NCR. Their prawn dishes are prepared using fresh and juicy prawns, making them a hit among seafood lovers.

The restaurant has a chic ambience and is perfect for a family dinner or a date night. The price range for prawn dishes is between INR 700-1200.

  1. Yum Yum Cha: Yum Yum Cha is a popular Japanese restaurant that serves some of the best sushi rolls and prawn dishes in the city. With multiple outlets across Delhi/NCR, their prawn tempura and prawn sushi rolls are a hit among seafood lovers. 

The restaurant has a chic ambience and is perfect for a casual dinner with friends. The price range for prawn dishes is between INR 500-1000.

  1. OD’s Restaurant: OD’s Restaurant is another popular chain of restaurants that serves Chinese and Thai cuisine. With multiple outlets across Delhi/NCR, their prawn dishes are prepared using fresh and juicy prawns and are a hit among seafood lovers. 

The restaurant has a cosy ambience and is perfect for a family dinner or a date night. The price range for prawn dishes is between INR 500-1000.

  1. Asian Soi: Asian Soi is another popular chain of restaurants that serves Chinese and Thai cuisine. With multiple outlets across Delhi/NCR, their prawn dishes are prepared using fresh and juicy prawns and are a hit among seafood lovers. 

The restaurant has a modern and chic ambience and is perfect for a business meeting or a date night. The price range for prawn dishes is between INR 500-1000.

  1. Miso – The Asian Kitchen: Miso – The Asian Kitchen is a popular restaurant with multiple outlets across Delhi/NCR that serves Asian cuisine. Their prawn dishes, especially the prawn tempura and prawn sushi rolls, are a hit among seafood lovers. 

The restaurant has a chic ambience and is perfect for a casual dinner with friends. The price range for prawn dishes is between INR 500-1000.

  1. Wakhra Swaad: Wakhra Swaad is a popular North Indian restaurant with multiple outlets across Delhi/NCR that also serves some delicious prawn dishes. Their prawn curry and prawn biryani are a must-try for those who want to experience prawns in a traditional Indian style. 

The restaurant has a vibrant ambience and is ideal for a family dinner or a casual outing with friends. The price range for prawn dishes is between INR 600-1000.

Delhi/NCR has a plethora of restaurants that offer delicious prawn dishes from various cuisines. Whether you prefer Chinese, Thai, Japanese, or traditional Indian style, there is something for everyone. From upscale restaurants to cosy cafes, the city has numerous options to explore and indulge in the love for prawns.

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Here is how to combat food cravings during office hours

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food

As our workdays get busier, it’s natural to crave snacks and other unhealthy foods to help us get through the day. One of the most common reasons is stress. Working professionals may feel stressed or overwhelmed during the workday, and turning to high-calorie, high-fat snacks can provide a temporary sense of relief or comfort. 

Additionally, long work hours, irregular schedules, and job-related pressure can contribute to unhealthy eating habits.

Another reason for cravings could be due to boredom or lack of variety in food options. If you eat the same type of food every day, you may start to crave something different or more exciting. Also, if you don’t take breaks throughout the day or have a chance to stretch your legs, it can be easy to fall into mindless snacking.

Why is it important to combat food craving?

Consuming unhealthy snacks, such as those high in sugar and saturated fats, can cause a temporary spike in energy followed by a crash, leaving you feeling tired and unfocused. 

By avoiding unhealthy snacks during office hours and consuming more nutrient-dense foods, you can maintain consistent energy levels throughout the day and improve your productivity at work. By consuming more whole, nutrient-dense foods, you can improve your overall health and reduce your risk of chronic diseases.

Basically, avoiding combat food cravings during office hours can have many positive effects on your productivity, health, and overall well-being. By making small changes to your diet and developing healthy habits, you can achieve your goals at work and in life while also feeling your best.

How to avoid these cravings?

1.Replacing unhealthy snacks with healthy ones: 

One effective approach is to plan ahead and bring healthy snacks to work. Fresh fruit, veggies, nuts, and seeds are all great options that can provide sustained energy and keep you feeling full throughout the day. By having these healthy snacks on hand, you can avoid vending machines and other unhealthy options when cravings strike.

2.Balanced diet:

Eating regular, balanced meals is also crucial for avoiding combat food cravings. Aim to eat meals that contain a balance of complex carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats, as this can help stabilize your blood sugar levels and prevent cravings.

3. Staying hydrated:

Another important strategy is to stay hydrated throughout the day. Dehydration can sometimes be mistaken for hunger, so make sure to drink plenty of water and other fluids to keep yourself hydrated and feeling refreshed.

4. Taking breaks:

Taking regular breaks throughout the day can also be helpful. Stretching, walking, or simply taking a few deep breaths can help alleviate stress and boredom, which are common triggers for unhealthy snacking.

5. Mindful eating:

In addition to these strategies, practicing mindful eating can also be effective for avoiding combat food cravings. Take the time to savor and enjoy your food, and avoid eating at your desk or while multitasking. This can help you tune into your body’s hunger and fullness signals, and avoid mindless snacking.

6. Getting enough sleep:

Lack of sleep can disrupt your hormones and increase your cravings for unhealthy foods. Make sure to get enough rest each night to help regulate your appetite.

By following these habits and incorporating them in your daily life, you can improve your energy levels and be more productive at work. Remember, small changes over time can lead to big improvements in your overall health and well-being.

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Madhur Jaffrey honoured with The James Beard Lifetime Achievement Award 2023; Becomes 1st South Asian to do so

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Madhur Jaffrey

Madhur Jaffrey CBE, the legendary cookbook author, writer, teacher, and actress, has been named the 2023 Lifetime Achievement Award honoree by the James Beard Foundation, the organization announced on March 29. This prestigious award recognizes individuals whose lifetime body of work has made a significant and enduring impact on American food culture.

Madhur Jaffrey’s career has spanned over several decades. Her contributions to Indian cuisine have transcended national borders and have made a significant impact on the culinary world, earning her numerous accolades and recognition.

Having previously won eight James Beard Awards, Jaffrey’s selection for this honor marks her ninth win. Reflecting on the announcement, Jaffrey expressed her excitement and gratitude, stating, “Receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award is a wonderful pinnacle to my career, and I’m overjoyed.”

Jaffrey’s journey began as an actress, where she gained critical acclaim for her role in the film Shakespeare Wallah. However, her passion for cooking and food culture was instilled in her from a young age. Growing up in a family with a diverse culinary background, Jaffrey developed a deep appreciation for traditional Indian cuisine. She learned to cook with her mother’s recipes and would experiment with different spices and ingredients, honing her culinary skills in her free time.

After her marriage, Jaffrey moved to the United States and continued to explore her passion for food. She began teaching Indian cooking classes and quickly gained a following. Jaffrey’s classes were so popular that they were soon being offered in different cities across the country. She also began writing cookbooks, which became bestsellers and earned her critical acclaim.

In 1973, Jaffrey published her first cookbook, “An Invitation to Indian Cooking,” which served as a comprehensive guide to Indian cuisine. This book was groundbreaking in its approach to Indian food and garnered critical acclaim, establishing Jaffrey as a culinary authority. Her cookbook was inducted into the James Beard Foundation’s Cookbook Hall of Fame in 2006, solidifying its status as a classic in the culinary world.

Since then, Jaffrey has authored over 30 award-winning cookbooks, including “Madhur Jaffrey’s Indian Cooking,” “Madhur Jaffrey’s Ultimate Curry Bible,” and “At Home with Madhur Jaffrey.” Her books not only provide readers with delicious recipes but also offer a rich cultural and historical background of the dishes she presents. Her writing style is accessible, engaging, and imbued with personal anecdotes that make her books a joy to read.

Jaffrey is credited with bringing Indian cuisine to the forefront of mainstream attention in the United States and the United Kingdom. Her seminal show, “Madhur Jaffrey’s Indian Cookery,” premiered on the BBC in 1982, making her a household name in the UK. The show presented Indian cuisine in an approachable and accessible manner, inspiring a new generation of cooks to experiment with Indian flavors and techniques.

Jaffrey’s impact on the food industry extends beyond her culinary achievements. She has also been an advocate for cultural diversity and representation in the food world. Jaffrey has used her platform to highlight the contributions of people from different backgrounds and to celebrate the diversity of food culture.

In recognition of her contributions to Indian cuisine, Jaffrey has received numerous accolades, including the Padma Bhushan, the third-highest civilian honor granted by the Indian government. She has also been inducted into the Who’s Who of Food and Beverage in America and the Culinary Hall of Fame.

Madhur Jaffrey’s impact on the culinary world has been immense, and her contributions will continue to influence chefs and home cooks alike for generations to come.

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