This page gives explanations about frequent doubts we all encounter when we are a newbie/ experienced cook.
Can I substitute brown basmati rice instead of normal basmati rice?
Yes. In most of the recipes, brown basmati rice can be substituted for normal basmati rice. The normal basmati rice requires less spice compared to brown basmati rice. Hence, we need to adjust the spice and masalas. I have used basmati rice in these recipes: Healthy Ghee Rice
How to store tofu for long?
Put the tofu in water and allow it to sink until it is fully submerged by the water. You can keep it in the refrigerator for 10 days. Change the water every 3 days. I have used tofu in these recipes:
How to cook Rosematta rice/Palakkadan matta rice/Kerala Red rice/Kerala matta rice in a Pressure cooker?
First, soak the rice in water for 20 -30 minutes. Cook the rice in a pressure cooker for 4 whistles. The ratio of rice to water should be 1:4. After the pressure goes out, open the cooker and drain the excess water.
How to stop the pasta from sticking together?
After cooking pasta, drain out and rinse the hot pasta in running water and drain again. Now add olive oil or any other oil to keep the pasta separate.
How to substitute millets instead of rice?
Millets can be substituted in Indian recipes like Idli, Dosa and Kerala Pathiri to make it healthier. I prefer to change some quantity of rice to Banyard millet/ Kodo millet in Idli and Dosa to retain the white colour.
Ragi flour can be added along with rice flour to make Kerala Pathiri. I have used millets in these recipes: Kodo millet batter
Is a pressure cooker suitable for biryani cooking?
If the water measurement and rice soaking are properly done, we can cook biryani in pressure cooker. Roast the rice with little oil in medium heat till you get the aroma or the colour changes. This step will help in getting fluffy separate rice grains at the end of the recipe.
How long can homemade Pasta sauce be stored?
As common to other food, pasta sauce can be refrigerated up to 3 days. When frozen, it can last up to 3 months if stored in a clean airtight container.
How to freeze the herbs?
When we get herbs in larger quantities, we tend to store it for usage in the future. Cut the herbs into small chunks and put them in ice cube trays. Add boiled water or olive oil and freeze.
How to store herbs in the refrigerator?
Fresh herbs always play a role in everyday cooking. The issue starts when we store them. The rotten and spoiled herbs make the cooking process more complex and the brain looks for alternatives. Wrap the herbs in a kitchen towel or tissue paper to absorb the moisture and keep them in an airtight container to last for a week. Try to change the wet tissue regularly to enhance the longevity of the herb.
How to cook faster?
Add salt to cook faster when cooking curries. Especially, after adding tomato, try to add salt to get the tomato mushy faster.
How to save cooking time?
Plan your meal for a week. This comes handy when you prepare your ingredients and meals for the whole week.
How to prevent ladies finger from sticking together while cooking?
Cook the ladies finger based on your recipe. When it is cooked three-fourth, add a teaspoon of lemon juice and cook for a few more minutes.
How to store green chillies for long in the refrigerator?
Wash and pat dry the chillies. Remove the stem from chillies. Keep them covered by tissue paper in an airtight container or zip lock bags.
How to store curry leaves in the refrigerator for weeks?
Curry leaves stay fresh longer if you store them with stalks. Wrap the curry leaves with stalks in tissue paper and store them in zip lock bags.
What is an Appe pan and how to use it?
An Appe pan contains small cavities in which we can pour batter to cook in less oil. This utensil appears inn many Indian recipes especially those featuring breakfast. These are the recipes in which I used the pan: Paneer balls
