Priya Foods Blog – Indian Recipes, Tips & Cooking Ideas

Indian cuisine is a sensory gastronomic journey through a veritable tapestry of vibrant flavours, aromatic spices, and diverse regional traditions. From the simple home-cooked meals to the opulent feasts of royal kitchens, the culinary landscape of India is a treasure trove of gastronomic delights. At the heart of Indian cuisine lies the ingenious symphony of flavourful spices that not only add depth and complexity to the dish, but also invest it with myriad health benefits and medicinal properties. The pride of every Indian kitchen, big or small, is a well-stocked pantry that holds its own with poise and aplomb whatever be the occasion - an everyday meal, a festive feast, or a lavish party. In this fast-paced age where time is a precious commodity, pre-blended masala powders and pastes have become a saving grace for Indian women who strive to create delicious, old-world meals in a fraction of the time taken if started from scratch. These convenient culinary shortcuts have revolutionized the way traditional Indian dishes are prepared, allowing for both the preservation of authentic flavours and the convenience of modern living. Come, let’s explore 7 must-have Priya Foods products that will take your Indian cooking to the next level. These pre-mixed spice blends are expertly crafted to capture the essence of time-honoured Indian preparations, ensuring that every dish is infused with the perfect balance of aromatic spices. Hyderabadi Chicken Biryani Masala: Biryani, the crown jewel of Indian cuisine, is intricately intertwined with the rich Nizami culture. It reflects the opulence and grandeur of this bygone era known for its refined taste and love for lavish feasts. Priya’s Hyderabadi Chicken Biryani Masala, faithful to the age-old recipe, helps you recreate the same fragrant and aromatic flavours in your kitchen, effortlessly! This carefully crafted blend of spices and herbs including dry onion and garlic, coriander, chilli powder, cassia bark, turmeric and caraway seeds will infuse your chicken biryani with a burst of tantalizing flavours, ensuring an unforgettable dining experience. Meat Masala Powder: Whether it's the slow-cooked curries, the smoky grilled kebabs, or the aromatic biryanis, their depth of flavours and textures makes Indian meat dishes a favourite of food enthusiasts around the world. If you are a meat lover, you will find that Priya's Meat Masala Powder is a game-changer. With its rich blend of spices – dry ginger-garlic-onion, pepper, caraway, mace, star anise, cassia bark, cardamom, cloves, turmeric and red chillies, and herbs – coriander, curry leaves, this masala powder helps you whip up an irresistible meat curry with ease and confidence.   Garam Masala Powder: Literally translating to ‘hot spice blend,’ garam masala is a staple in Indian kitchens. What makes it so versatile is its adaptability to different regional cuisines and the ability to complement a wide range of ingredients. While the exact composition can vary, garam masala typically consists of a harmonious blend of spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, cumin, coriander, and black pepper. Each spice contributes its unique character, resulting in a well-rounded and complex flavour profile. The beauty of garam masala lies in its ability to elevate both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes by providing a foundation of warmth and complexity. Today, garam masala has found its way into contemporary fusion creations as well. Chefs worldwide too, have embraced garam masala for its ability to impart an exotic and enticing element to their creations. Priya Foods' Garam Masala powder is second to none. Bursting with a medley of aromatic spices, proportioned to perfection, this versatile blend adds a warm and robust flavour to a wide range of dishes. Sprinkle it over your curries or use it as a finishing touch – its aromatic spell will weave its magic instantly and to elevate your dish into a culinary masterpiece! Hyderabadi Vegetable Biryani Masala: Hyderabad's Nizams, known for their elaborate feasts and exquisite dining experiences, had their royal chefs create this version for their vegetarian nobility. Over time, Vegetable Biryani spread beyond the confines of the royal courts and gained popularity among the masses Priya Foods' Hyderabadi Vegetable Biryani Masala is an essential item for every kitchen. Show off your vegetarian cooking skills with this exquisite blend of spices – dry garlic-onion, mixed spices, cassia bark, turmeric and chilli powder, and herbs – coriander, bay leaf, this masala powder which will make sure your vegetarian counterpart to the famous Hyderabadi biryani is as delicious and deserving of an ‘encore!’ Fish Fry Masala: With its long coastline India is a treasure house of seafood delicacies. From the tropical flavours of the coastal regions in the South to the spicy and aromatic creations of the East, Indian seafood dishes showcase a remarkable array of tastes, textures, and cooking techniques. If you enjoy indulging in the flavours of the sea, Priya’s Fish Fry Masala is that secret key which will allow waves of deliciousness to embellish your seafood dishes. This special blend of spices enriched with mustard, cornflour, fennel and fenugreek adds a zesty and tangy twist to your fish preparations, making every bite a burst of delightful sensations. Whether you are pan-frying or deep-frying, this masala will ensure a perfectly seasoned and crispy fish every time. Premium Sambar Powder: The origins of Sambar can be traced back to the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Interestingly, it is believed to have been created by the Marathas who ruled over parts of South India. An aromatic, tangy stew made from toor dal (split pigeon peas), tamarind, and a unique blend of vegetables and spices, Sambar is popular not only for its taste but also for its nutritional value. The combination of lentils and vegetables provide a protein-rich and balanced meal, making it a staple in South Indian households. So no South Indian cook will ignore the savoury touch of sambar in his/her meal plan. Priya’s Premium Sambar Powder is an aromatic spice blend including coriander, rice flour, turmeric, red chillies, cumin, fenugreek, cassia bark, rice bran oil, asafoetida and curry leaves, that will immediately add depth and richness to your sambar preparation, taking it to a whole new level. Noodles/Pasta Masala: Noodles from China and Pasta from Italy have been so wholeheartedly embraced by Indians that Indianised versions of these culinary imports are springing up at remarkable speed. Their journey of acceptance and integration into the Indian culinary fabric has been both fast and easy because of their being able to appease the palates of both kids and adults alike! Priya’s Noodles/Pasta Masala powder is a unique blend of spices that manage to create a perfect fusion of Indian and foreign flavours to appeal to the discerning Indian palate. A perfect balance of coriander, red chillies, ginger, garlic, onion, black pepper, clove, cassia bark and star anise, ensures that this powder is just what you need to add a hint of spice and a dash of tanginess to your noodles/pasta dish and transform it into one that demands a repeat performance! What’s more…just a pinch of Priya’s Noodles/Pasta Masala can add a captivating twist to any Indian dish and turn it into an innovative wonder! With these seven essential Priya Foods products in your pantry, you have a treasure trove of flavours at your fingertips. From biryanis to curries, from meats to vegetables, Priya Foods' spice blends add a touch of magic to your culinary creations. So go ahead, unleash your creativity in the kitchen and let Priya Foods navigate your course through the vibrant and diverse world of Indian cuisine.  

Once staple traditional crops, millets lost ground rapidly to wheat, rice and maize that have ruled the world and our plates for over a century now. But with the United Nations declaring 2023 as the International Year of Millets, all eyes are once again on these humble but healthy food grains. As the world becomes increasingly aware of the negative impacts of climate change, millets are gaining ground rapidly as must-have ‘super foods.’ Priya, India’s favourite and trusted food brand, can always be trusted upon to serve up the traditional and healthy with a contemporary ‘universal appeal’ twist! The millet options from their repertoire are well on their way to reigning palates and hearts alike In keeping with the spirit of the year, Priya Foods recently organised a recipe contest centred around millets, which was a grand success, attracting entries from Priya’s fans across the country. Here are two of the prize-winning recipes, so that more people can try it for themselves and benefit from the wholesome goodness of millets, and the diverse ways in which they can make meals delicious and healthy! But before that, here are some essential facts about millets. They are a rich source of micronutrients, fibre, proteins and antioxidants. When you break it down, millets certainly pack a solid punch - they contain 7%-12% protein, 2%-5% fat, 65%-75% carbohydrates and 15%-20% dietary fibre. What’s more, they are gluten-free and have zero cholesterol! Here is Suman Agrawal’s prize-winning recipe of Ragi flour waffles. Ragi flour is rich in iron and calcium. Ingredients: 1/2 cup Ragi flour                                       1/8 cup Semolina 1/8 cup Whole wheat flour 1/2 cup Curd 1 pinch Baking soda 1/4 tsp Pepper powder 1/2 tsp Ginger crushed 1 Green chilli chopped 1 tbsp Coriander leaves chopped Salt to taste Butter for brushing Grated cheese Chopped coriander leaves for garnish    Preparation:Mix together ragi, semolina, whole wheat flour, salt, pepper, green chillies, ginger, and coriander leaves. Add in the curd while giving it a good mix. Add water to get a thick consistency batter. Keep the batter aside for about 15 minutes. Then add the baking soda to the batter and mix well. Pre-heat the waffle iron. Brush some butter on the waffle iron and pour some batter into it. Close the iron and cook For 7 to 8 minutes or till it cooks completely. Remove and place it on a serving plate. Sprinkle the grated cheese and finely chopped coriander leaves. Serve with a sauce and salad for enhanced yumminess! Another prize-winner, Bindiya Foodie, shares her mother’s special recipe for a tasty Pearl Millet / Bajra Burfi.Ingredients: 1 cup Pearl Millet Flour 1 1/2 cup Sesame Seeds 1 tsp Cardamom 2 tbsp Ghee 1 1/2 cup Jaggery 1/4 cup Peanuts 1 tbsp Pistachios   Preparation: Add sesame seeds in a medium heated pan and roast it on medium flame while stirring continuously. When it becomes light brown, take it out in a bowl and cool it. Grind half of the roasted sesame seeds and 7-8 peeled cardamoms in the mixer jar. Melt ghee in the same pan, and add the millet flour to it. Roast it on low-medium flame while stirring continuously. When ghee separates, take it out and transfer to a bowl. Now pour some more ghee into the same pan, add jaggery and 2 tbsp of water. Cook it on a low flame till the jaggery dissolves and starts to foam After the jaggery is cooked well, add the roasted millet flour and cook on a low flame, stirring continuously. Then add the ground sesame-cardamom powder and whole sesame seeds to it, and mix well. Turn off the flame when it is well mixed. Grease a tray with ghee, pour the mixture into it and spread it evenly. Place some peanuts and pistachio on it and flatten with a spoon. Leave it to solidify for half an hour. Then cut it in your desired size and shape So whether its waffles for breakfast, or a delectable sweet treat, Priya Foods shows you the imaginative and endless ways in which millets can be transformed into the most delicious and nutritious meals in minutes! Why wait…try them now!!

It’s Summer. The season of lazy afternoons, family gatherings, childhood innocence, and…mangoes! The king of fruits, loved equally raw or ripe. Despite the infamous heat of Indian summers, it is hands down, the most-awaited season of all, by young and old alike. It’s after all the time for making that universally-liked condiment - Mango Pickle! In not just one, but many avatars.   Here’s a typical scenario that plays out in most Indian homes on a designated bright summer day: Father sets out to the market with his mother’s instructions ringing clearly in his mind - select only the firmest, sourest raw mangoes. Without an iota of doubt, grandma is in charge, and everyone follows her instructions to the t. Experience counts, doesn’t it?  Youngsters are given the relatively easier task of washing and drying the mangoes, while father is responsible for cutting them into bite-sized pieces. The atmosphere is charged with the aroma of spices and oil being mixed in just the right proportion by ma under the hawk-eyed supervision of grandma. The mango pieces then go into the spice-oil mix and stored carefully in sun-dried ‘bharanis’ or porcelain jars. No one can touch or move them until grandma declares the pickle ready for consumption, and distribution to friends and family! Yet, kids, raiding the pantry - during the afternoon when elders take their well-earned siesta - with the hope of a juicy piece of pickled mango, is quite the common sight.  An unfailingly adhered to tradition on the pickle-making day, is grandma making roundels of hot rice, ghee and the pickle gravy sticking to the vessel, and feeding them with pure love to her entire family. Undoubtedly, the sound of easy laughter and banter is a special ingredient that adds to the nostalgic taste of the traditional Indian mango pickle.  For Indians, the mango pickle is not just a food item, but a link to a glorious past and culinary culture. It is a reminder of ancestors who had passed on their traditions and values for generations. It is a reminder that no matter how much time had passed, their traditions and memories would always be preserved with love and respect. Grandma's pickle is a lasting symbol of every family's love, unity, and heritage. Clearly, the pickle yields incredibly powerful magic in any true-blue Indian household. That unassuming jar/bottle of pickle on the dining table is a saviour  - be it at fussy, boring, innovative, or lazy mealtimes.  A typically traditional Indian meal is never complete without an assortment of two-three pickles – sour, spicy or sweet – to add some tongue-tickling, tangy zest to the food. For some, a piece of their fave pickle is all that it takes to make a full, satisfying meal! Who needs a main course?? Before the off-the-shelf, readymade pickles became a popular option, ladies in every household took pride in making their own supply of pickles, to last them anywhere from three months to a year.   Since fast foods hadn’t as yet made an appearance as a quick-fix solution for sudden bouts of hunger, pickles were the next best thing. All you needed to do was grease a paratha or a roti with the pickle gravy, stack the pieces separately to bite into, and your delicious snack was ready.      The ingredients of an Indian mango pickle are carefully chosen - to add taste, as well as nutrition. The mango pickle is a rich source of Vitamin A, C potassium, antioxidants, nutrients, minerals such as iron, calcium and much more, making it not just a tasty but a healthy choice too. Pickling - or preserving foods in vinegar, brine or a similar solution - is one of the oldest methods of food preservation. Although the exact origins of pickles are unknown, archaeologists believe ancient Mesopotamians pickled foods as far back as 2400 B.C. Queen Cleopatra of Egypt credited the pickles in her diet for her health and beauty.  Pickles were a regular part of the diet of soldiers in Julius Caesar’s armies to keep them fit, healthy and strong. As intrepid explorers, both Christopher Columbus and Amerigo Vespucci, believed pickled foods were the best and safest option for sailors on long voyages. Closer home, the variety, range and taste of Indian pickles is as diverse and endless as Indian cuisine itself, from sweet and sour, tangy, or just plain spicy. Telugu pickles are far more spicy and tangy, compared to pickles from other parts of the country. With life moving into the fast lane, today, it is not possible for every household to make its own pickle to suffice for the whole year. Also, the new generation demands variety on the dining table. This is where traditional brands like Priya Foods come to the rescue valiantly. Their pickles are  a faithful recreation of the traditional, time-honoured recipes of mothers and grandmothers from the olden days. Be it Mango Avakaya, Cut Mango pickle or Mango Thokku, each of their mango pickles makes sure your every meal is instantly perked up with the genuine and authentic taste of home. In keeping with the modern lifestyle, these pickles are available in stores, on the Priya Foods website, and on online marketplaces like Amazon. So laying your hands on one is practically effortless.  Go ahead, bring home the pickle(s) of your choice, and time travel down the food nostalgia trail. Bon Appetit!

Indian parents and their unwavering belief in the power of homemade goodness is legendary! Whenit comes to fizzy 'western' drinks that can be bought off the shelf, they'll frown upon them fasterthan we can say ‘carbonation.’ It's like they have a sixth sense for sniffing out those sneaky cola canshiding in the back of the fridge.Come Summer, in their quest to keep us healthy, they become the ultimate ‘cooling’ foodambassadors. So when the scorching heat has the household yearning for a refreshing drink – momshave just the answer - Badam Milk! The one beverage that reigns supreme, as it is not only pleasesour taste buds but also meets the approval of our health-conscious parents.For the uninitiated family members who doubt the mighty Badam Milk, the coaxing pattern goesfrom, “It’s most delicious” to “I am telling you it’s healthy” to "Why go for a cola when a glass ofbadam will make you strong like your favourite superhero? (a bait line for kids all over the world)"Oh, the ultimate persuasive powers of Indian parents on a mission!The Badam Milk preparation rituals are no less than a sight to behold. It's like a sacred ceremonypassed down through generations. Moms carefully handpick the plumpest almonds, and soak themovernight. The next morning, armed with patience, the humble but dependable blender and a touchof momsy magic, they blend those soaked almonds into a creamy gold concoction that could rivalany gourmet dessert. It's like they're secretly training for the MasterChef Badam Milk Edition!Maybe it's the love they pour into every glass, but just one sip of that homemade delight, is knownto entice even the most reluctant of taste buds forever. We become willing converts to the cult ofbadam milk, spreading the gospel to our unsuspecting friends who have yet to experience the joy ofhomemade goodness.Come, accompany me on a nostalgic trip down memory lane and see for yourself why Badam Milk isan ageless favourite of Indian moms and for once, of Indian kids too! A taste of heavenPicture this: A glass filled with a velvety elixir, emanating the mesmerizing aroma of almonds andsaffron. As you take your first sip, a symphony of flavours dances on the palate, ranging from therich, creamy texture to the subtle sweetness of the almonds. Each sip is a trip to paradise, as theflavours envelop your senses and evoke a sense of pure bliss. Health in every sipIndian Badam Milk is not just a treat for your taste buds; it also boasts an array of health benefitsthat will make your body thank you, and your mom give it an upvote! Almonds, the star ingredient,are packed with nutrients like vitamin E, magnesium, and healthy fats that promote the healthyfunctioning of the heart and the brain. This elixir is also a great source of protein and calcium,providing nourishment and strengthening your bones. Talk about a one-two punch of deliciousnessand goodness! The cool quotientWith summer temperatures soaring, finding innovative ways to keep the family cool and nourishedbecomes the priority for every Indian mom. Badam Milk comes to the rescue as the quintessentialcooling drink. It has a natural soothing effect on the body, thanks to its hydrating properties. Sip bysip, it replenishes lost fluids, helping you beat the heat and stay refreshed throughout the scorchingsummer days. Indian Badam Milk is not just a drink; it's a time machine that transports us to the carefree days of our childhood. Its tantalizing taste, coupled with its health benefits and cooling properties, make it the perfect summer companion. So, go ahead, indulge in a glass of this delightful elixir, and let it whisk you away to a world of nostalgia and mirth. Raise your glass and say cheers to the good times and the timeless joy that Indian Badam Milk brings! If you want to be spared of the hassle of preparing it from scratch, here’s the next best ‘closest tothe real one’ alternative: Badam Milk Mix from Priya Foods’ Mithai Moments range. Just one spoon, a stir and in an instant, you are good to gulp it down or savour it sip by sip, whichever is yourstyle! You can get Priya’s Badam Milk Mix at any grocery store near you, or simply order it from thecomfort of your arm chair at: https://priyafoods.com/products/instant-badam-milk-mix-200g  

We are heading towards Mother's Day, which gives us the perfect chance to turn to the first person we ever loved, and utter those three magical words we may have wanted to say, but did not, many times during the year. Thank you, Mom! Even today, as I stand slicing and sautéing onions in my kitchen, I am reminded of my mother. No, she did not make me cry, but her careful handling of every task has left a deep-rooted impression that informs my own approach to cooking, and life itself Her loving words of advice linger in my ears whatever I am doing. “Don’t be in a hurry. Keep the heat on medium, stir often to make sure you don’t burn the edges and make the onions bitter.” Isn’t life something like that? My mother was the one who diligently, patiently, and above all, lovingly introduced me to the world of flavours, spices, and ingredients. Though a reluctant learner as a child, when I grew up and left home seeking out my own path in life, I realised that her tips and teachings went way beyond the kitchen. Through cooking, she taught me invaluable life lessons which I try to apply wherever I can, because I know they came from experience and a heart filled with unconditional love. Patience above all! My mother always maintained that deliciousness is a result of time and patience. Cooking was never a rushed job for her. Just as good things come to those who wait, we were never disappointed by what she put on the table. Her favourite quote was, "Good things take time, just like a good biryani takes time to cook." Imperfection is the mother of innovation My mother's cooking was all about letting things unfold naturally. Yes, she did follow the recipes she had learnt from her mother, but she was by no means a stickler for perfection. She improvised on the go if the kitchen shelves didn’t have a particular ingredient, and the result was always delicious. “We don't need to be perfect to be happy. Life is messy, and that's what makes it beautiful.” With these gems of advice ringing in my ears, I never fret over cooking mishaps, but look at them as happy accidents leading to a completely new dish. Ditto, in life Creativity is the crux The best, and most memorable meals are not necessarily those that come out of a fancy recipe book. Our holiday meals were mostly the result of experimenting with new ingredients, blending different cuisines, and simply getting creative and daring. The presentation plays a big role too, my mother would say, especially when we had guests over. And of course, the warmth with which she served the food left its own lingering taste on our palates. “Real cooking is about following your heart, ” she loved to tell me. The creativity she demonstrated practically in the kitchen has spilled over into many other areas of my life, and taught me to approach problems with a creative mindset. Hard work pays off When we put in the effort, have the patience, and keep up the effort, we can whip up something really amazing, my mother believed. She never took short-cuts in the kitchen, or in any other sphere of life, for that matter. “Cooking is not a job” , she said, “it is a passion that should be carefully nurtured, respected and loved.” In life, too, I apply the same principles, and have never been disappointed by the results. Sharing is caring Clichéd, as it may seem, my mother always cooked for others. She believed food has the power to bring people together, and is a way of expressing love and affection. Whenever I had my mixed bag of friends over for lunch or dinner, she took the extra effort to come up with a multicultural menu that had something for everyone. This small gesture made a big impact and endeared her to my friends in a jiffy From her I learnt to put others first, to share, to spread joy Even to this day when I stand beside her in her neat little kitchen, pestering her to teach me another new recipe, her patience and indulgence reveal little nuances that embellish my life with sensitivity and value Happy Mother's Day! To all the mothers out there. Thank you for the lessons you teach us in every breath you take. Thank you for being the purest version of love there can ever be.

Millets have arrived at last to claim their rightful place and space on the dining table after spending years in obscurity, or stored in some dark, shadowy kitchen cabinets, half-forgotten and barely noticed. Now those dreary, non-descript times are gone forever, thankfully a thing of the past. Today everyone is rooting for millets as a wonder food. Some even talk about it of as a small and mighty super-hero. And it is so true, believe it or not! One reason for their growing popularity, is that millets are a rich source of micronutrients, fibre, proteins and antioxidants. But what are the reasons behind these wonder foods to suddenly pop up out of the blues and flex their muscles? The gradual shift towards health, nutrition and fitness has triggered a tremendous upsurge in awareness about what we eat and how, mainly on account of radical lifestyle changes. When you break it down, millets certainly pack a solid punch. Take a look for yourself: Millets contain 7-12% protein, 2-5% fat, 65-75% carbohydrates and 15-20% dietary fibre. The essential amino acid profile of the millet protein is better than that of various cereals such as maize. But there are many more bonuses along the way, if you care to take a look. Millets are gluten free and non- allergenic. Their consumption decreases triglycerides and C- reactive protein, and therefore prevents cardiovascular disease.  All millets are rich in dietary fibre and unlike staple food grains like wheat and rice, their cultivation is incredibly sustainable. It also benefits our bodies by strengthening our immunity, keeping diseases in check, and aiding weight loss. But for Generation Next and for people on the go, priorities have changed. They want foods that can be made and served quickly, without any fuss and hassles, and yet retain all the delicious, wholesome goodness of a regular, home-cooked food. Remember, like the kind our mums and grandmas could rustle up like magic at any time. Now there is whole new range of wholesome meals that can be cooked and served in next to no time. And Priya has taken the lead with their selection of Quick Foods, a wonderful mix of taste and comfort, without any compromise on health and nutrition. Their selection includes: (1) Quick Pulihora Poha - a delightfully wholesome anytime meal, good for the whole family. A favourite in all South Indian homes. When you’re feeling puckish, just empty the contents in a bowl and add hot water – your meal is ready.  (2).Quick Upma: Experience a simple and hearty snack in a pack, that is downright sumptuous and healthy (3) Quick Poha: A quintessential Maharashtrian treat now in a handy pack, with a tantalizing mix of tangy, spicy, sweet and nutty flavours. (4) Quick Miillet Upma: Tickle your taste buds with a pack of this signature snack. Perfect at any time! (5) Quick Millet Poha: Indulge in the goodness of ragi, bajra and jowar – three superfoods all in one pack, together with crunchy nuts. So in the end it is clear as daylight that Priya Foods is a market leader that aims to give people with a discerning palate the true taste of traditional home-cooked you can relish over and over again, especially with their Quick Foods.