Author: cookingwithshy

The Heart Of Goan Cuisine: A Culinary Journey Through Goa’s Local Ingredients

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“Food Is Everything We Are… It’s an extension of nationalist feeling, ethnic feeling, your personal history, your province, your region, your tribe, your grandma. It’s inseparable from those from the get -go”- Anthony Bourdain Locally available ingredients most often contribute largely to the essence of regional cuisine. Of course the cuisine is further enhanced by cooking techniques, traditions, cultural nuances and flavor combinations , all contributing to the uniqueness of the dishes from the region. In every sense then it could mean , that Culture and Cuisine go hand in hand. To understand a city or a region one then has to know it’s food, local ingredients and what inspires the cuisine. The region in question is Goa, easily the sunshine state of India and perhaps popular with tourists and locals alike being a beach dotted paradise that promises a laid back lifestyle, fun and frolic. That said the cuisine is best described as an influence of several cultures including Portuguese,African, Arab and Brazilian. The predominant one being Portuguese. Goan staples consist of rice, coconut, …

Happy Diwali: Sweet Treats With A Healthier Twist

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Diwali: The festival of lights is a five day celebration amongst Indians and also marks the onset of a New year in accordance with the Hindu calender. It is celebrated with much gaiety and grandeur.It is aptly called so, as celebrations are marked with fireworks and lighting of lamps called “Diyas”, signifying the triumph of good over evil and ushering prosperity, success and good cheer into one’s homes. Worship ceremonies include that of praying to Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, making of sweets and savories, visiting family and friends with gifts and partaking in indulgent feasts.These can be quite extravagant, with the table filled with special dishes and  desserts.A true celebration of fun, frolic and sweet treats. “May the divine light of Diwali fill your life with happiness, peace, and good health. Happy Diwali!” Some key traditions during Diwali include: The following are some of our favorite sweets enjoyed during our Diwali celebrations. I have recreated healthier Diwali sweets using zero refined sugar and instead used dates, coconut sugar and powdered jaggery wherever possible. These treats are …

Discover Flavors Of Syria: Zezafoun Toronto

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“We wanted to share mamas delicious Syrian culture with the people in Toronto and beyond.. says Marcelle Alexis, Co-founder Zezafoun Eid celebrations often bring back memories of our time in Dubai and the joy of celebrating with friends and indulging in the various Iftar buffets that most hotels and restaurants plan around this time of the year. I also fondly remember the foodie walks in Mumbai with my sister, that are a delightful culinary journey into the by-lanes of the city which are abuzz with food vendors and street stalls that are a delightful experience to the senses and a symphony of flavors, aromas and textures that elevate the dining experience. Whilst here in Toronto, a bunch of ladies decided to embark on a culinary journey at Zezafoun last evening. This hidden gem serves some very authentic Syrian cuisine crafted with love and warmth making our meal a memorable culinary experience  Walking into this restaurant is like stepping into the comforts of Syrian warmth and hospitality.This place is run by Chef Yola and her daughter Marcelle.The …

Harvesting Happiness: Microgreens & Culinary Inspiration

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Microgreens are young, edible greens harvested at a seedling stage stage of growth, typically before the onset of the first true leaves. These tiny greens are packed with nutrients and flavor, making them a favorite addition to salads, sandwiches, and garnishes. I had been contemplating growing microgreens for awhile now, as they often come in handy for plating and garnishes. The best part of growing microgreens is that you may use some of your pantry staples such as mustard, fenugreek, coriander or sunflowers seeds. I like to grow them in some organic potting soil that I use growing my herbs. However you may try growing them hydroponically too. Here are some handy tips in growing Microgreens: Microgreens can be a wonderful and visually appealing garnish to may dishes, adding a burst of flavour and tons of nutrition too. These tiny shoots are a powerhouse of antioxidants, minerals and vitamins. Mustard microgreens at Day 4 of sowing the seeds. Mustard microgreens at day 11 Use Microgreens In: I have rounded up a series of some of …

Vietnamese Chicken Pho

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Pho is a popular street food and perhaps the simplest of soups and an utterly flavorful dish served commonly in all households in Vietnam. Vietnamese Chicken Pho ( to be pronounced as Fuh), essentially called Pho Ga translates into rice noodles with chicken in a fragrant and delicious broth. Pho literally means Rice noodles and Ga is for chicken. This aromatic noodle soup originated in Hanoi and is a milder form of the traditional beef Pho. Quite easily the epitome of Vietnamese cuisine and named the national dish of the country, this aromatic soup originated in Hanoi and is a milder form of the traditional beef Pho. Traditionally Pho Bo, is where the broth is made with beef with an addition of bean sprouts, rice noodles, mixed herbs and lemon juice. The broth is prepared separately and includes whole spices such as star anise, fennel and ginger as flavourings. This makes up for a hearty and healthy one bowl meal that is bursting with flavours. I recently sampled a delectable Pho, here in Toronto at …