Best Delicacies That Sum Up Winter

Posted by Mango.Delight

Winter is the best season to binge on seasonal delicacies that are not only scrumptious, but also possess several benefits that aid you to stay warm, retain body heat thereby strengthening your immunity. Body chills in winter could lead to mineral deficiencies in the body that need to be supplemented through a right diet. Here is a list of best delicacies that shall entertain your taste buds throughout winter. Caution – This list may cause instant salivation.

 

  1. Gajar Ka Halwa

gajar Gajar Ka Halwa

One of the most famed winter specials, gajar ka halwa is an all-time favourite delicacy. And surely, the chilly winters add to its taste as well as demand.  This sweet and sumptuous dish cooked with ghee and sprinkled generously with dry fruits, gets tastier during winter due to the availability of fresh, sweet carrots.

Tubers like carrots are rich in dietary fiber and helps to regulate the body’s blood sugar levels which tends to fluctuate during the winter season.  Clarified butter is renowned for enhancing physical and mental health and gives the body much required warmth, along with dry fruits which helps combat colds.

  1. Sarson Da Saag

sarsonSarson Da Saag

Sarson or mustard leaves is one ingredient that’s full of iron and protein.  Sarson da saag is a traditional Punjabi dish which made in the winters which is also the harvest season. Paired best with makki di roti ( a match made in heaven ), homemade butter,  sarson da saag is packed with several nutritional benefits.. It also possesses anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties thereby making it a beneficial vegetable which is easily available in winters.

 

  1. Spicy Sweet Potatoes

potatoSpicy Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are available in plenty in this season. Different people eat this vegetable in several different ways. Some roast it, some boil and then spice it up but the most popular way of consumption of this vegetable is cooked with spices eaten along with naan or indian roti. They are rich in vitamins and have a high fiber content that is helpful for our body. Roasting it with herbs also makes up for a great afternoon snack.

 

  1. Rogan Gosht

roganRogan Gosht

This Kashmiri winter delicacy is a beautiful culinary experience which stuffed with nuts and dry fruits along with some really pungent spices that lends warmth to the body.  Mutton is a hearty ingredient that when cooked to perfection in traditional spices to make a hot and delicious dish protects your body from winter chills.

 

  1. Paya Shorba

690bone-soup-paya_020216080755Paya Shorba

Famous for generating heat in the body, Paya shorba is a soup that is made with hoof of a cow, goat or lamb. This meaty broth is cooked with spices and makes for a scrumptious soup. Jam packed with nutritional benefits, this shorba made with paya is highly recommended in the winters and makes for a great meal in itself.

 

  1. Undhiyo

undhiyoUndhiyo

A Gujarati winter specialty, Undhiyo is made with a vegetable called papdi.  It grows on creepers in this season. Papdi and other vegetables such as brinjals, sweet potatoes, peas etc are tossed together with traditional heat-generating spices to make a pungent veg dry stew. It is served with puris, indian breads like rotis or traditionally ( Gujarathi way ) with methi muthiyas. Methi or fenugreek too is a heat generating condiment that provides warmth to the body.

Happy Holidays and Happy Munching Everyone!

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Best Places To Visit In India This Winter

Posted by Mango.Delight

 

 

Think its old news with J&K’s snowcapped chill and Himachal Pradesh’s resplendent mountains? Don’t you worry! Now is the time for you to have a look at these remote places that haven’t received many tourists. Tourism in India needs to progress and needs to deviate from popular locations to explore the many places the country’s niches have to offer. And undoubtedly in a country as expansive and diverse as India, there is indeed much to see.

Here are some of the relatively less discovered and explored locations in India that you can visit.
Ahmedabad.


ahmd

Swaminarayan Akshardham

Once called as the “Manchester of the East” for the establishment of itself as home to a resplendent mill culture, Ahmedabad carried on to become a rising center for IT and education and academia market.A place that was taken in during the British rule, it morphed to become as one of the safest cities in the Gujarat region and the world.

Good places to visit would undoubtedly be Sabarmati Ashram and the Akshardham Ashram. But straying away from the popular obvious choices, you could also pay a visit to the Adalaj Step-Well and the Auto World Vintage Car Museum.

 

Bengaluru

3Banglore-City-1 Mysore Palace

Bengaluru ties with Mumbai as the nation’s most progressive city and is also the hub of India’s booming IT Industry. It’s an enormous student city where you’ll perchance encounter local youths chatting whilst they sip on their ginger ale and roam around in ’90s band T-shirts.

It’s that kind of a city that has taken a lot of care to make sure its green spaces and colonial heritage stay preserved. So, perhaps even though urbanization continues to push its boundaries outwards, the inner central district that dates back to the British Royal Era remains almost untouched and unblemished. Make sure to visit the Dodda Ganapathi Temple , the ISKCON Bangalore, Sri Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Temple , the amazing Cubbon Park, the Vidhana Soudha and Attara Kacheri.

 

 

Bhubaneswar

Temple-in-Bhubaneswar-slide-01 Illayaraja Temple

The biggest city in the state of Odisha, Bhubaneshwar has grown to become the political, cultural, educational, economic and tourist hub of the region. Bhubasneshwar means ‘Lord of the Universe.’ And true to its spiritual heritage, it is renowned for its architectural wonders in the form of temples and shrines and other magnanimous sculptures coupled with its serenity and  sanctity, it garners a huge response in presence from tourists from all over the world. Places to visit are definitely Udayagiri Caves, Lingaraja Temple, Meghesvar Temple, Raja Ran temple. When in Bhubaneshwar, check in to Prangan by Mango Hotels, Bhubaneshwar,

Goa

goa_banner

Goa Beach

 

The place that needs no introduction yet enjoys accolades from one and all. Goa’s finest Portuguese mansions, winding country lanes and wildlife reserves, all waiting to be explored by you. A place of Sands, Sun and Beaches – It’s a harmony of bliss and enjoyment. A land of true “vie sussegad” indeed. When in Goa, check in to Jasminn by Mango Hotels, Goa.

Gangtok

gangtok-bhutan-8-nights-500x500 Gangtok Nest

The magnificent hill-town of Gangtok expands over a forested mountain that looks toward the Kanchenjunga peaks. . One can walk for hours in the old neighborhoods, pathways covered with the canopies of tall trees and observing the amicable locals pass by. Take in the local culture, the relaxed and positive vibe of the locals, visit the monks at the traditional monasteries or simply  roam around the markets. Places to check out are Rumtek monastery & Tsomgo Lake amongst others. When in Gangtok, check in to Sikkkim Delight by Mango Hotels, Gangtok.

Nagpur

nagpur Deeksha Bhoomi

Nagpur is acclaimed for its scrumptious Nagpur oranges, amazingly spicy food, marvelous religious sites, national parks and tiger reserves. The city houses many colorful religious gatherings and festivities. Places to visit are temples of Ramtek and the Ashrams of Sevagram. Also don’t forget to visit the famous Zero Mile Stone and Futala Lake.

 

Secunderabad

 

secunderabad Basilica of Our Lady of the Assumption

 

The old city is everything you might dream an old city in India to be. Narrow by-lanes of markets, tea shacks, animals wandering on and about, auto rickshaws, a swirling symphony of noise, languages color and religions dotted with stately old architecture in varying states of repair. The Qutb Shahs and the AsafJahs, arrived and departed from this city of pearls and diamonds and left behind a legacy of resplendent palaces, mosques and tombs. Places to visit are Golconda fort, Hussain Sagar Lake, All Saints’ Church and Saidanimba Tomb.

Happy Exploring Traveler !

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5 Recipes With Vodka

Posted by Mango.Delight

When it comes to mixed drinks, Vodka is the most lovable and pocket friendly, versatile liquor out there. It goes down easy and tastes decent with pretty much anything. Which is why one can often get carried away with too many vodka tonics! If you’re having a party, or just relaxing by yourself, most importantly if you love vodka, these recipes are a ‘Must Try’ for you. Here are 5 recipes with vodka that are easy to make and will always make you feel classy. Enjoy with family or friends, just keep out of reach of the young one’s!

5 recipes with vodka you just have to try!

It’s spicy, you think it’s healthy and it’s quite delicious!

  1. Bloody Mary–

10804_ginger_bloody_mary Bloody mary

Ingredients-

  • 4 oz. tomato juice
  • 2 dashes Worcestershire sauce
  • pinch of celery salt
  • Pinch of freshly ground black pepper
  • 3 dashes Tabasco sauce
  • 1 squeeze lemon
  • 1 tsp. fresh horseradish
Cocktail
  •  2 oz. vodka
  • Lemon wedge, for garnish
  • Olives, for garnish

Mix-

  • Combine tomato juice, Worcestershire, celery salt, black pepper, Tabasco, lemon, and horseradish.
  • Vigorously shake vodka and bloody mary mix. Garnish with olives and lemon wedge.

For a ladies night in of gossip and fun!

2) Cosmopolitan- Channel your ‘Sex in the City’-loving self and sip this perfectly pink concoction.

cosmoCosmopolitan

Ingredients-

  • 1 3/4 oz. lemon vodka, preferably Crop Meyer Lemon Vodka
  • 1/2 oz. Cointreau
  • 1/2 oz. cranberry juice
  • 1/2 oz. lime juice
  • 1/4 oz. simple syrup
  • Lime wedge, for garnish

Mix-

  • Shake vodka, Cointreau, cranberry juice, lime juice, and simple syrup.
  • Pour over a coupe.
  • Garnish with lime wedge.

Vodka cocktails using juice

 

3) Cape Cod-

Strawberry+CaipirinhaCape Cod

Ingredients-

  • Highball glass filled with ice
  • Pour 2 oz. of vodka
  • Top off with cranberry juice
  • Garnish with lime
  • You can easily make a Screwdriver by just switching the cranberry for orange juice. Even try a Sea Breeze or a Greyhound which uses cranberry, grapefruit and orange juice.

4) Madras-

madrasMadras

Ingredients-

  • Fill highball glass with ice
  • add 1 1/2 oz. of vodka
  • 1 1/2 oz. of cranberry juice
  • 4 oz. of orange juice

Bond……James Bond

5) Dirty Martini

dirty-martiniDirty Martini

Ingredients-

  • Add 2 olives and lightly crush them in the glass
  • Add 50 ML Vodka
  • Add 25 ML Dry Vermouth
  • Take a chilled glass with 1 whole olive in it
  • strain the dirty martini into the chilled glass
  • Feel like James Bond yet?

There you have it 5 recipes with Vodka that are easy, pocket friendly and will always make you feel classy. They are quick to whip up especially during a party. Most recipes use fresh fruit juices and one can always get creative with them. Try slicing a green chili in half and adding it to your vodka soda to keep things spicy. Vodka is the most widely used spirit in the world and as we’ve established that it is very versatile. Now a tequila is strong! But you can still go easy with Vodka. If you want to try some snazzy vodka cocktails check out X-cuse bar at any of our mango properties and just chill with a drink. Let us know if you have any recipes of your own that you’d like to share! Stay Mango, As Alive As You!

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11 Farm Friendly Foods To Have

Posted by Mango.Delight

Fresh foods come straight from the farm, freshly harvested, picked, and sent to the local store. This food contains no preservatives, additives or ingredients that classify the food as inorganic. Here are 11 farm friendly foods one can have for a healthier and nutritious diet.

Grapes- The health benefits of grapes include their ability to treat constipation indigestion, fatigue, kidney disorders, macular degeneration and the prevention of cataracts. Grapes form one of the most popular and delicious fruits are rich sources of viatmin A, C, B6 and folate along with essential minerals like potassium, calcium, iron and many others.

 

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Grapes

Tomatoes- The many health benefits of tomatoes can be attributed to the abundance of nutrients and vitamins, including an impressive amount of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as significant amounts of vitamin B6, folate, and thiamine. They serve as a good source of potassium, manganese, magnesium, phosphorous, and copper. It’s good for bones, eyes and overall health of one’s immune system.

Cheese– It’s not only fattening, it’s fat that in certain amounts is good for the body! Cheese contains a host of nutrients like calcium, protein, phosphorus, zinc, vitamin A and vitamin B12. The high-quality protein in cheese provides the body with essential building blocks for strong muscles. It also contains a host of pro-biotic bacteria which is good for health.

Cheese-Deli14Cheese

Ginger– It is loaded with nutrients and bioactive compounds that have powerful benefits for your body and brain. Gingerol is the main bioactive compound in ginger, responsible for much of its medicinal properties. It has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. It is highly effective for pregnancy related sickness, relieving muscle soreness and even cold and cough along with aiding metabolism.

Milk- Cow’s milk offers a rich source of calcium, a mineral essential for healthy bones and teeth. Cow’s milk is also often fortified with vitamin D, which is also beneficial for bone health. However, other nutrients are also necessary for bone health, such as vitamin K, strontium, magnesium and vitamin C. It’s also good for teeth, nails and energy levels.

Yogurt– One serving is a significant source of potassium, phosphorous, riboflavin, iodine, zinc, and vitamin B5. Yogurt also contains B12, which maintains red blood cells and helps keep your nervous system functioning properly. Despite its sugar content, yogurt doesn’t cause cavities! The protein in yogurt may also help increase the amount of water absorbed by the intestines, improving hydration. In some cases, it’s a better substitute for ice cream!

Berries– They may be little, but blackberries, raspberries, strawberries, blueberries, and cranberries are big on antioxidants. The antioxidants in berries can help your body fight oxidative stress caused by free radicals that can lead to illness. What makes berries so special is their high levels of phytochemicals — those naturally occurring nutrients that help protect cells from damage. They are also good for blood circulation and a healthy heart.

 

Berries

Wine– Wine drinkers have a 34 percent lower mortality rate than beer or spirits drinkers. Moderate drinkers suffering from high blood pressure are 30 percent less likely to have a heart attack than nondrinkers. Moderate consumption of wine (especially red) cuts the risk of colon cancer by 45 percent. Red wine consumed in the recommended quantity can be beneficial for a healthy heart and good blood circulation.

Garlic– Contains decent amounts of calcium, copper, potassium, phosphorus, iron and vitamin B1. Garlic also contains traces of various other nutrients. In fact, it contains a little bit of almost everything we need.  Garlic supplementation is known to boost the function of the immune system. It also has a significant impact on reducing blood pressure in people suffering from high blood pressure. Garlic is especially helpful to fight cold and flu and for overall health of the immune system.

Eggs– are a very good source of inexpensive, high quality protein. More than half the protein of an egg is found in the egg white along with vitamin B2 and lower amounts of fat and cholesterol than the yolk. The whites are rich sources of selenium and various vitamins and minerals. But listen to your grandmother and eat the whole egg. The yolk is as important as the white!

 

Eggs

Mango– Prevents Cancer: Research has shown antioxidant compounds in mango fruit have been found to protect against colon, breast, leukemia and prostate cancers, Lowers Cholesterol, Clears the Skin, Improves Eye Health, Alkalizes the Whole Body, Promotes Healthy Sex, Improves Digestion, Helps Fight Heat Stroke.

 

Mango Hotels Knows the importance of Farm friendly foods and all the ingredients served in the restaurants are fresh from a local farm. At Mango Hotels, quality and quantity go hand in hand, whether  it’s a glass of wine or a plate of food. So here was a run down of 11 farm fresh foods that you should inculcate in your diet for a healthier lifestyle.

 

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DIY Ganesha Art Ideas And Tips.

Posted by Mango.Delight

“The world is but a canvas to our imagination”-Henry David Thoreau

It’s that time to shout ‘Ganapati Bappa Morya’  because Aamchi Mumbai is all set to welcome Ganesha with open arms and lots of Bollywood songs! Art is immortal just like the Idea of God. Since the dawn of time man has used art as a form of depiction, as a tool to connect with the supernatural, to experience what is beyond our mortal existence.  Artists created paintings, idols and illustrations so they could feel closer with God, from the humble carvings on a cave wall to hieroglyphics and what we call modern art today. So why not try out DIY Ganesha art ideas to make this Ganesha Chaturthi special?

This Ganesha Chaturthi showcase your creative side by trying these easy DIY Ganesha art ideas. You can decorate your house or local pandal with these and even send them with gift baskets to neighbors or friends.

Easy Eco-Friendly Clay Ganesha- Clay, water, toothpick.

01GaneshaidolCourtesy: Clay Ganesha

You will need: clay, water, toothpick

  • Make different sized clay balls. Pick the biggest roll and make a dumbbell shape.
  • Make the third largest roll the head. Place a toothpick in the second largest roll as it will be the body.
  • Put the head and the body together. The other smaller rolls can be rolled into thin strips as they will form the hands and legs. Cut a roll in half to make the ears.
  • Use the toothpick to outline the eyes and trunk. You can make other designs too. Once dried these can be painted too. These are cute little surprises when giving gift baskets to others.

Navadhanya Ganesha-  9 grains, hardboard, glue and varnish.

GANBWH-1-500x500

Courtesy:Navadhanya Ganesha

You will need: 9 pulses and grains (any), hardboard, glue, varnish

  • Trace an easy design of Ganesha on a hardboard.
  • Use bigger sized pulses to make the outline and use the smaller grains to fill in the body. Once you have the placement right, glue them in place.
  • Once the glue has dried, apply varnish to protect it from bugs.

Chalk Carving of Ganesha- Colored chalk, Knife or any pointy tool.

GaneshCourtesy: Chalk Ganesha

You will need: colored chalk, knife or any pointed tool

  • Take a thick piece of chalk. Draw a simple design of the face or the body of Ganesha.
  • Use a knife or a carving tool to carefully carve out the design. You can even dust it lightly with glitter. Place it around the house next to the candles. You could carve out the same design on the candles as well. You could send it as a Teacher’s Day gift as well.

Glow in the dark Jar-

largeCourtesy: Glow in the dark jar

zen_Ganesha_1411110726Courtesy: Silhouette of Ganesha

You will need: mason jar, glow in the dark paint, cut-out of  Ganesha

  • Place the cut out of Ganesha on the inside of the jar. Make sure the cut out is black as it will act as a silhouette.
  • Use the glow in the dark paint to outline the design on the outside. You can make the outline using dots or a thin line.
  • Place the jars around the house and watch them glow in the dark!

 

There you have it, easy and quick ways to create something out of nothing. You could even use fruits and turn them into carvings, or use waste paper to make a paper mache idol. Inspiration can hit you from anywhere. So get celebrating and get creative with these DIY Ganesha art ideas.

 

 

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Most Beautiful Bird Sanctuaries in India.

Posted by Mango.Delight

“The bird is powered by its own life and by its own motivation”- A.P.J Abdul Kalam.

Owing to its varied geography, climate and presence of a long coastline, India is the dwelling house to several species of bird sanctuaries. Not only can you spot many regional birds here, but scores of migratory birds also make India their temporary habitat. Bird sanctuaries in India are therefore a hot spot for nature lovers and bird watchers.

The sanctuaries offer a dwelling place for these birds, but the true beauty is not in the habitat but in the inhabitants. Birds may be considered small creatures but they are majestic. Their colors, their build and their sounds. Every bird has a purpose and watching a bird in its natural element is a different experience altogether.

Jack Snipe

Jack Snipe

With more than 1200 species of avifauna present in India, it has forever been one of the most favored destinations for tourists. Among the most distinguished bird sanctuaries in India, the following are the most visited ones:

Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary, a well known sanctuary of Gujarat is a true bird paradise harboring over 250 bird species.   It is situated west of Ahmedabad near Sanand Village, in the Gujarat state of India. Mainly populated by migratory birds in winter and spring, it is the largest wetland bird sanctuary in Gujarat, and one of the largest in India. It harbors over 250 species of wetland birds. Ducks, geese, pelicans and flamingos are seen early in the morning and in the evening. The best time to visit is at sunrise, as the lake is peaceful, surrounded by a flock of birds in their element.

It’s something about the call of the birds, their numerous conversations that you don’t understand, but it still enthralls you. It’s a way to look at the species we share nature with, how they live, how they eat and its moments like these where we don’t feel that different from them.

Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, also known as Pakshi Kashi of Karnataka  is the largest bird sanctuary in the Mandya District of the state of Karnataka in India. During the months of January and February, more than 30 species of birds are found and it is truly a breath taking sight. About 50 pelicans have made Ranganathittu their permanent home. During winter months, as many as 40,000 birds gather in this bird sanctuary and some birds travel from  as far as Siberia, Latin America and parts of north India.

Karnala Bird Sanctuary, is located in Panvel Taluka of Raigad District, outside Mumbai, India near Matheran and Karjat.The sanctuary is open to visitors from sunrise to sunset. The bird sanctuary is an admired destination for bird-watchers and hikers in the Mumbai area. The sanctuary provides a habitat for 150 species of resident and 37 species of migratory birds that visit the sanctuary during winter. Three rare birds, the ashy Minivet, three-toed kingfisher and Malabar Trogon have been sighted here. The Karnala fort is located on the top of the hill in the sanctuary and is a popular trek for hikers.

Minivet

Short-billed Minivet

“A bird doesn’t sing because it has an answer, it sings because it has a song”- Maya Angelou

Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, is an estuarine mangrove habitat, which is now a bird sanctuary, and is located on the western tip of the Island of Chorao along the Mandovi River, Goa, in India. The sanctuary has been named after Salim Ali, the eminent Indian ornithologist. Several species of birds have been sighted and the common species include the striated heron and western reef heron. Other species that have been recorded include the little bittern, black bittern, red knot and jack snipe. The sanctuary is also host to mudskippers, fiddler crabs and other mangrove habitat specialists.

Red Knot

Red Knot Bird

All these bird species look as exotic as they sound and truly showcase nature’s beauty. If you find yourself visiting any of these places, be it Goa or Bangalore then you cannot miss out on the Mango Hotel experience. Suited to meet the needs of the tech savvy traveler, Mango Hotels boast various locations without compromising on the quality of their service. After a long day of sightseeing or business deals, Mango Hotels provide the comfortable retreat to relax and unwind.

People usually visit the cities of Goa, Bangalore, Mumbai and Gujarat for the food, the culture, the architecture or the nightlife. Well, you have another reason to explore more of the city and Mango Hotels will be with you all the way because, “Hospitality is when someone feels at home in your presence”.

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Shrimp Papad Roll Anyone?

Posted by Mango.Delight

Shrimp Papad Roll

“A recipe has no soul, you as the cook must bring soul to the recipe”- Thomas Keller

Shrimp Papad Roll Anyone?

Shrimp Papad Roll Anyone?

A recipe is more than instructions; it’s a chance to create something, a chance to put a smile on someone else’s face. It’s that instant joy that you get when you create something new, something delicious with your hands. Food is nostalgia; food is an art, a feeling so profound that rationality often takes a back seat.

If you are hosting a party, or just having a night in, or you have hungry kids to feed, this recipe is a sure shot winner. Shrimp, papad and a roll, it’s basically a party in your mouth. The Chinese have spring rolls well, we just came up with the shrimp papad roll of your dreams. Crunchy papad filled with tender, juicy prawns, a kick of green chili with some tangy lime, finish it off with some juicy tomato and freshly grated coconut and you’ll find yourself going for seconds. It’s finger food without all the fat of Kentucky Fried Chicken! And it’s quick and easy to prepare.

All You Need–

Shrimp -0.100 Gms

Onion- 0.06 Gms

Tomato- 0.04 Gms

Freshly grated coconut- 0.03 Gms

Garlic- 0.010 GMS

Ginger- 0.005 Gms

Chili powder-0.005 Gms

Coriander powder-0.005 Gms

Turmeric Powder- 0.004 Gms

Garam Masala            – 0.005 Gms

Salt- 0.002 Gms

Pepper-0.002 Gms

Oil- ml, For Frying

Papad- 6

Green chili- 0.003 Gms

Juice of 1 lemon

Coriander leaves- 0.003 Gms

Method:

The filling–

  • Put the Shrimp in a bowl, remove the head and shell. Cut the shrimp down the back to remove the center vein.
  • After you have cleaned it, marinate with oil, turmeric powder, and lemon juice and keep aside.
  • Heat the oil in a pan and sauté the garlic, ginger and onions till they turn translucent.
  • Add the freshly grated coconut and sauté for another two minutes till it turns a light brown shade. This will add a toasty flavor to the dish. Add the chili powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder and Garam Masala
  • Add the chopped shrimp and sauté for a few minutes until it turns lightly white or a blushing pink color. It is very easy to overcook shrimp, which only makes it taste rubbery. Make sure you do not keep it on the heat too long because it will be cooked a second time when it is deep fried.
  • Sprinkle over some coriander leaves, remove from heat and let it cool.

The roll-

  • Place each papad on a flat surface and brush with beaten egg. The beaten egg mixture will help seal the papad and ensure the mixture does not fall out.
  • Place the cooked shrimp mixture horizontally on one half of the papad and roll it up tightly to enclose the filling. Make sure you do not over fill the papad as there is a chance the mixture might burst out of the filling.
  • Press the edges of the papad to seal the ends.
  • Heat the oil. A good way to check if the oil is hot enough is by placing a wooden skewer in the oil, if bubbles form around the edges the oil is hot enough.
  • Carefully slide in the Shrimp papads in the hot oil and fry till golden and crispy.
  • Drain it on a tea towel to remove excess oil.
  • Season with salt and pepper while it’s still hot
  • Serve it with some tangy laccha pyaaz and refreshing mint chutney

 

Do be careful, especially when you are deep frying, people usually use a throwing motion, but that only causes the oil to spit. Hold the papad on one end and gently slide it into the oil to avoid any oil splattering.

There you have it, a tasty snack all in a matter of minutes.  This is a lovely evening time snack and for seafood lovers, it’s quite a delight.

 

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Rajkot – A Glorious Past And A Beautiful Present

Posted by Mango.Delight

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Courtesy: Swaminarayan Temple

Rajkot was the capital of the princely state of Saurashtra from 15 April 1948 to 31 October 1956 before merging in bilingual Bombay State on 1 November 1956. During the British ‘raj’, Rajkot was one of the priciest states in India. It was founded by Thakur Sahib Vibhoji Ajoji Jadeja of the Rajput Jadeja clan in 1620. Rajkot is the home of several temples.

Taking a trip to Rajkot gives you the chance to visit some of the most historical places the city has to offer. While you wander around the streets, the past comes back to life. The main tourist attractions in Rajkot are Mahatma Gandhi’s house or Kaba Gandhi No Delo, Watson Museum, Jagat Mandir, Rajkumar College, Lang Library, Lal Pari Lake and Randerda.

Mahatma Gandhi’s house: The house where Gandhi stayed from the age of six still contains a collection of things that were a part of his life. His passion, the handloom, is carried forward in the form of a small weaving school.

Mahatma_Gandhi_High_School_Rajkot_12200 (1)- anki

Courtesy: Mahatma Gandhi School

Watson Museum: This museum and library contain the work of Colonel John Watson, a political agent from 1886 to 1889. The inscriptions and ivory work overseen by a marble statue of Queen Victoria are from the 3rd century.

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Courtesy: Watson Museum

Jagat Mandir: A temple made out of red stone, it features beautifully carved art of Shri Ramkrishna Paramhansa.

Sri_Jagat_Siromani_ji_temple

Courtesy: Jagat Mandir

Rajkumar College: This famous college located in the city dates all the way back to the 19th century and is regarded as one of India’s best private colleges. The college was set up by the British for the education of the princes of the Indian States.

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Courtesy: Lang Library

Lang Library: With so much history, discovering the magical past makes this library stand out even more. It has a collection of thousands of documents and books covering every period in Rajkot and Saurashtra (region) history.

Lal Pari Lake: This lake is a one-of-a-kind picturesque picnic spot, situated 5 km from Rajkot.

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Courtesy: Lal Pari Lake

As you enjoy the history of this glorious place, do stop to buy some of the handmade crafts which are traditional and ethnic, and native to the region of Gujarat. If you plan to shop in Rajkot, then you’ll be spoilt for choice. Things to buy range from the famous “bandhani saris”, the mirror works, bead works, patchworks, and silk embroidered dress materials. Goods to buy in Rajkot may include things that are manufactured in the industries of Rajkot, and are available at a reasonable and cheaper rate.

Do make it a point to eat some “desi” food in Rajkot. The localites love to eat street food often, some most popular foods such as Pav Bhaji, Panipuri, Dabeli, Ghughra, and much more. To have a taste of true local cuisine you could visit Rasikbhai Chevdawala.

The city has a lot to offer for all manner of travellers. Unravel it’s gorgeous past and experience its beautiful present.

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The Bangalore We Don’t Always Experience

Posted by Mango.Delight

Bangalore_palace

Courtesy: Bangalore Palace

When we talk about the city of Bangalore, the first thing that comes to our mind is the high-tech industry which the city harbors. The one thing we often overlook is the cultural heritage of the city. So if you can look past the technology and the overly modern aspect of the city, then you’ll see a very different Bangalore.

Bangalore, now known as Bengaluru, is the capital city of Karnataka in South India. The weather in the city is always quite pleasant, just like the city itself – always bustling with life. As far as accommodation in Bangalore goes, budget hotels are some of the most popular amongst both, the business crowd and the travelers who are just looking to explore the city. Budget hotels near Bangalore Railway Station are the most sought after, considering the convenience of their location. Staying at hotels which offer you a good deal on accommodation, has its advantages; saving a lot of money is one of them, money which can be used to explore the city.

So what are some of the best places to visit in Bangalore?

Some of the most beautiful attractions you simply cannot miss are the breath-taking parks like the Lal Bagh, a botanical garden built in the 18th century. Another popular park is the Cubbon Park, which displays about 6000 species of trees and plants – definitely a heaven for the nature lovers.

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  Courtesy: Cubbon Park

Now when we talk about the historical heritage of Bangalore, there definitely isn’t a shortage of sights to visit. The Tipu Sultan’s Grand Summer palace, now a museum, is a marvelous display of Indo-Islamic architecture. Another historical monument that’s worth visiting is the Vidana Soudha. The enormous building was built in 1954, it has four domes and showcases neo-Dravidian architecture. It also houses the Legislative Chamber of the Karnataka Government and many other government departments.

The sights in Bangalore are one thing, but the food is quite a different experience. If it’s an English Breakfast that tickles your fancy, then Hole in the Wall is the place to be. The restaurant is located in Kormangala and features an indoor and outdoor sitting area; the place is really popular with the younger crowd. There are also many budget hotels in Kormangala, which makes it a lovely place to visit. If you’re a seafood lover then Vembanad which is located on the rooftop of The Paul. The restaurant serves up some amazing coastal dishes like Meen Nirachathu, Erachi Pathiri, Chemeen Muringakai Theeyal, Chemeen and Koonthal Ularthiyathu and Thalasseri Kozhi Curry. The décor of the restaurant is an authentic Kerala style and is a treat for anyone who loves the flavors of Kerala.

the-hole-in-the-wallCourtesy: The Hole In The Wall Cafe

Bangalore is, without a doubt, a city with a perfect blend of the modern and cultural aspect. It’s clearly visible to anyone who takes the time to immerse themselves in the culture of the city. Opting to stay at hotels near majestic Bangalore is the best way to explore the city since you’ll get a really good deal on your reservation.

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Five Reasons You Should Travel Alone

Posted by Mango.Delight

Heading out, traveling with your friends and family is an enjoyable experience. It’s special because you get to share your experiences with other people and at the same time you indulge in new experiences, experiences that make for compelling stories! But, there is something that trumps everything that’s mentioned above, and that is traveling alone! Solo travel can be done by anyone, irrespective of you being single, committed, workaholic extroverted, or introverted! Now, that those prerequisites are settled, here are five fantastic reasons to travel alone!

  1. It’s simpler
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Courtesy: Bag Packers

Going with a bunch of people brings along its own headaches. Coordinating the trip and catering to other people’s preferences usually makes the trip much less impressive.

2. Get your bucket list

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Courtesy: Bucket List

How many times you’ve been willing to try something and no one is ready to do it along with you. Well, now go ahead and take the plunge, because there are no more agreements and disagreements.

3. Finally, someone who understands you

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Courtesy: Time Alone

Yeah, finally! First, people rarely spend time alone and most importantly spending time alone can lead to introspective and life changing experiences.

4. Amazing people are out there

Friends on adventure

Courtesy: New Friends

But, traveling alone is not only for the introverts. Often, individuals who travel alone are more approachable than others. Traveling alone is a wonderful way to meet other people and know new people.

5. It’s your way and your way only!

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Courtesy: Your Way

Ever been in a situation where you want to visit a place and your traveler partner is not in the mood to visit the place. None of that anymore, as you are not obliged to entertain anyone but yourself!

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