Wednesday, July 10, 2013

Cake Custard: Recipe

Ramadan Mubarak to all!!!!

It's Ramadan so i don't think there is any need to specify what importance does food keep in this month.
Yes, we do fast for 15 hours here in Dubai, but believe me,,as soon as we break the fast,, we all hogg like we just never saw food before!!! LOL

Back at my home in Pune ,my mom again I would mention is an amazing cook,, we used to have a great month, Mom used to cook so many things each day, I remember how my siblings and me used to eat so bad, we couldn't even move my body much then,and sometimes used to end up laughing at each other's situation.
*I guess that pretty much happens with you guys too?? Don't you give that cunning smile...

I would try my best to share few recipes that I cook in Ramadan.

Here is a very simple and presentable sweet dish which is called Cake Custard



Mouth watering right???
So better try it yourself.


Ingredients:

Custard Powder (4 tbsp)
Milk (1 litre)
Chocolate Sponge cake
Chickoo or Mango
Rose Syrup and Dry fruits for garnishing.

Serves 8


See I told you,the list is so small,!!

Method:

  • Take a small bowl, add 4 tbsp of custard powder and 6 tbspn of milk to it(taken from the 1 litre milk).Mix well avoiding the formation of clumps.
  • Keep the rest of the milk to boil.
  • By then, peel and chop mangoes or chickoos in tiny pieces.
  • Once the milk comes to bowl, lower the flame to minimum, and slowly add the custard mixture to it,stirring gradually, again avoid formation of clumps.
  • Keep stirring for 3-5 minutes and switch off the flame. Let the custard cool for half an hour.
  • Now take the serving bowls, and first add around a tbsp of chopped mangoes or chickoos to every bowl.
  • Cut the sponge cake into squares,size should be enough to oocupy the circular base of the bowl.I am not a professional chef,so can't exactly give the dimensions.Place 1piece in every bowl over the chopped fruit.(You can make out the size in the above pic)
  • Pour the custard into the bowl,over the cake,filling 3/4th of the bowl.
  • Garnish with rose syrup,sliced almonds,pistachio and raisins.
  • Keep in the refrigerator for an hour before serving,This will help the cake absorb some custard.(Toally depends how good the cake is)
* If I don't have enough time i make this a night before.
* You can also cut the cake into very small pieces and add them in good amount instead of using a square piece. Because sometimes my family likes mixing the entire bowl,the cake almost tries to dissolve in the custard,then they eat it.


These are my bowls,,

Please do try it for Iftehaar and let me know how it is with you comments.

And for those who message me that they liked my post,please comment below also :)


Eat Yummy, Look Yummy!!!
Thats a sick tagline.


Thursday, July 4, 2013

FJI Restaurant:Review

FJI Restaurant located at Jumeirah Beach Road, set up on a tiny area, would definately make you dream big!!!

Offering a variety of items on the menu,mostly from the Lebanese cuisine, outstands itself from most of the popular restaurants.

First Impression:I found the place just another cafetaria, but my Hubby promised me it won't disappoint me.

So here's our order:

1 Chicken Fillet sandwich (dhs 9):
Wrapped up neatly, served alongwith french fries and lebanese pickles. I just tasted it,because that was my husband's order. It did give a real good taste, but the chicken was not at all tender.
** I love pickles

1 Falafel plate (dhs 7):

Around 10 pieces of Falafel served in a bowl,garnished with sourcream/hummous and paprika.
The falafel was so tender and juicy, all the chickpeas and veggies(if any) immediately hitting the taste bud,with a blend of the cream.(I didn't really understand whether it was sourcream or hummous, as hummous is usually a bit thick than what was served).
That was the best falafel i had in Dubai. I ate all of them, couldn't stop hubby from picking 1 up.
I was so busy eating, I forgot that I am a blogger and that I had to click an appropriate picture of it.
*That makes the bowl almost empty.

1 Cocktail FJI (dhs 13):



Big wholesome glass full of natural fruit pulp, topped up with sliced strawberries, bananas, kiwi, muskmelon, black grapes, and also kitkat.
The topmost layer was again fresh cream with powdered pistachio over it.
I couldn't wait for more than 2 seconds to have the next bite.
Believe me guys, it was something dropped from heaven into that glass,you won't deny!

1 Fakhfakhan (dhs 12)
It's totally similar to Cocktail FJI except that it has more fruits than pulp, and also it doesn't have any kitkat in it.

This great restaurant is loacted just by the road side, so you can really have a good evening with friends at this place. 
Don't know what was with their chairs, they were ohh so comfortable!!!

If I have to personally rate this restaurant out of 10, it would be this way:
Taste:9
Ambience:7
Service:9
Value for money:9

In any case, if you are looking for a little change in your food, this is a simple yet impressive place to try out.
I don't have to say I will visit this place again,as i am so much in love with it, I keep visiting it already.


Eat to please your stomach!!!



Monday, July 1, 2013

Garnier Skin Naturals Eye Roll On:Review

Yeah Yeah!!! I know it's been a long time!!! So you expect me to say 'I am sorry'????
Ahem Ahem!!!!
I am soooooo sorry people.Though i know you are a very few,you are my great friends!!!


So here I come with a review of Garnier skin Naturals Eye Roll On range.This is especially done in response to a special request. :)

Firstly, about my eyes.I am very much aware that almost 8 out of 10 people have a problem with their under eye area.Let's accept it,we dont look any witch with those eyes. ok??

I never suffered from this problem before.Why am I calling it a problem,it's just a situation.
Yes, so this situation occurred to me when I settled in Dubai.Ask me how???Don't worry Dubai doesn't do any harm to me.

So what happened?
Homesick,,sleepless nights,..The main reason.Now i got these terrible dark under eyes.
The best way to help your eyes out is to give it proper healthy sleep.

Okay thats too much of my situation explained.

This review is going to be about

  1. Garnier Skin Naturals Light Eye Roll On 

    Quantity:!5 ml
    Expiry: 3 years from packaging date
    Price: 15 dhs


    Product Information :Eye puffiness and dark circles can make eyes look dull and tired. Granier Light Eye Roll-on is a massaging roll-on that combines caffeine and the draining effect of a massage to reduce puffiness and dark circles and brighten the eye contour.
    Massage is a technique used by experts to boost natural draining and decongest tired eyes.The formula,enriched with caffeine,known for its stmulating properties on micro circulation ,helps to brighten the skin and boost radiance.

    Results:
    Proven Efficacy:Immediate cooling effect to decongest puffy eyes.
    In 14 days, skin looks brighter and more radiant
    In 28 days, eye puffiness and dark circles are reduced.
    *Self evaluation,29 women,8 weeks
    *Clinical test, 50 women, $ weeks

    My Views about this product:
    Amazing is the word for you my darling Roll on..It's just similar to water,veru light and not at all sticky.
    I feel as if some holy water is treating my eyes.
     My eyes always seem tired and drowsy and what not!!! I really needed something that would help my eyes instead of just camoflouging it.So, I ran to the store one day just to get hold of this wonderful product.
    What I love about it  is the way it soothes my eye.
    The immediate cooling effect that the product claims is totally true.
    Then, the Massaging steel ball!!! I feel like keeping it rolling on forever,!!!
    And believe me , it will reduce your eye puffiness within a month.
    It did lighten my dark cirlces, but not too much, I guess it needs some more time to help me.
    But, I am totally convinced with this lovely skinny Roll on.





Garnier Skin Naturals Anti Dark Circles Eye Roll On
Quantity: 15ml
Expiry: 3 years from the date of packaging
price: 20dhs


Is Garnier Light Tinted eye Roll on right for u?
Yes,if you want to reduce and cover dark circles and looking for an immediate solution.It combines anti-dark circles care enriched with natural engredients and a long wearing tinted concealer,which is as effective as makeup.The active formula and massage ball offer a complete solution to tired eyes with dark circles.

How does it work?


  • Immediate Cover:It's texture contains highly concentrated mineral pigments that provide high coverage of the appearance of the dark circles.Long lasting,naturally covers dark circles with its toning shades.
  • Cooling Effect:Enriched with caffeine which is known for its stimulating action and lemon essence known for its clarifying properties.Its hydrating formula conceals any sign of drak circles with a massaging troke.

Ohh gawd!!! there is os much to right in this..Directly skipping to my views.

My views:
This tinted roll on is very much similar to the above eye roll on,just that it has a tinted concealer added to it. It's not too thick,it's a very easy blendable creamy liquid.So you dont have to put alot of effort on your eye while blending.I use the shade light.
The concealer is good if you want something that looks natural without giving a full coverage.
I liked the concealer as I wanted something that doesnt put any weight on my eyes making it heavy,what most concealers do.It gives an equivalent cooling and massaging effect.
Also,what the product claims to be as effective as makeup,I would say the coverage of dark circles is light to medium,and it lasts for 5-6 hours but it fades away slightly after an hour or two of application.

I got such a perfect match that the swatch isn't even clearly visible.

The only thing that i am worried is after an hour this product makes my under eye look dry.So, i found a solution to it.Before applying the tinted roll on, I apply the light eye roll on.It prevents the drying

How to apply:
I use the light eye roll on twice a day,once in the morning,once in the evening.
The tinted one I use when i am going out.
The best way to apply both of them is by drawing a spring with the product under your eye.(That sounds funny).I meant rolling in circular motion,
And then,just dab it with your ring finger.In the above picture you can clearly see how my right eye has brightened up and looking naturally concealed with the tinted roll on,whereas my left isn't covered up at all.


These massaging steel balls i am in love with.
Ohh n yes,do u see my hand looks little reddish,,I got a burn while cooking :(

Pros:

  • Awesome cooling effect,getting rid of tired eyes.
  • Reduces puffiness
  • Very reasonable
  • Easy to carry
  • Brightens the eye
  • Product quantity lasts too long around more than 3 months if used daily.
Con's:

  • The tinted roll on dries up the under eye.
  • Only 3 shades available:Light ,Medium, Dark.


I will keep buying this product life long,until I discover something better than this.

Care beautifully, see beautifully!!



Thursday, June 20, 2013

Himalaya Herbals Protein Hair Cream: Review

Hiee again everyone!! This one is for all my guy friends too. I know your hair feels like goats. ugggghhhh!!
These days the weather keeps changing it's mood everyday.
Heat, humidity,rain, dust!!! Uffff !!!

This time I am very excited about this product,because I have never used any hair creams before.
But yes,I did use home made hair packs many times.
I bought this hair cream just a week ago,and hardly tried it 2-3 times.
And guess what, I am loving it.

My hair is sometimes the most unmanagable thing for me.
As i never know, when it betrays me out of bad weather problems.

Since summer has just begun, my hair has started rejecting most of the smoothening shampoos.
That's the reason I thought to give this cream a try.
Afterall, it's Himalaya herbals,we Indians do trust herbals alot.

This is how the pack looks


Quantity-140 ml
Price- 13 dhs(for 2 packs on offer)

What the product claims:

A unique herbal formulation for Dry/Damaged hair with extra nourishment of natural proteins derived from Chickpea and Wheatgerm.
Enriched with Eclipta and Amla that promote hair growth.

Benefits of the ingredients:

Chickpea: It's a rich source of natural protein.
Wheatgerm: It consists of Vitamin E and folic acid. It gives hair extra nourishment by regaining the moisture that hair loses daily.
Amla:Amla has always been used for hair growth in indian culture.It helps you make hair roots stronger.

Directions for use:

Use daily before and after hair wash.Massage gently onto scalp and hair,leaving it for an hour before shampooing.
Apply on damp hair after every wash for all day extra nourished and stronger hair.

I like the packaging of the product. It comes in a flat white tub,with a green cap. The cap fits tightly ,avoilding any spillage of the product.Also there is a silver film over after you open the cap.


The texture is amazing,its soft and too smooth. It's not at all greasy.The cream is thick white.
It gets spread easily on scalp and hair.I really liked the fragrance. I usually like the fragrance of Himalaya products. Also it gets washed off easily without leaving any residue behind.


My Views:
I just used it 2-3 times and I could see the difference in one single wash.
My hair is long, dry(these days) and frizzy too.
I was too lazy too apply oil,and I didn't have much time. So as told, I applied it on my scalp and hair tips which looked quiet damaged and dry.Left it for an hour.
Washed it with water first, then followed my shampoo and connditioner routine.
To my surprise. on air drying my hair, they were so soft, shiny and the damaged tips got soft too.
I made my hubby cross check the feel of my hiar, and he was impressed too :).
It's surprising result made me do this review.
I loved it!!
Yes.I will buy this product again and will use it atleast once a week.

The Pro's:

  • Makes hair soft and frizz free
  • The ingredients are good for hair
  • Non greasy
  • Great natural fragrance
  • Easy to wash off
  • Good price and quantity.

The Con's:

  • No spatula to get the cream out,spoon has to be used
I won't prefer using it after hair wash, as I fear it might make my hair weigh down as told by few people.
But, I am loving the feel it gives to my hair,It's a must try product!!


Friday, June 14, 2013

Moong daal cheele(Green gram pancakes):Recipe

This is definitely my mom's own recipe. I remember how everyone used to love these pancakes and grab the recipe from my mom right there.

My mom is that lady who has magic in her hands, especially when it comes to cooking.

She is a brilliant cook, and an awesome human!! I love it when people say I am just like my mom.

Health Benefits:
  • Like others beans,green gram is a rich source of low fat protein
  • It has a healthy amino acid profile
  • High in fibre.
  • Low gycemic.
  • Also it is used to cure fevers
It can also be used as a substitute for soap..(although this wasn't needed here.)
 
Let's start to make our cheela.

Ingredients:
  • 1 medium bowl sprouted green gram/ overnight soaked green gram beans.
  • Coriander.
  • Green chillies 4-5(if you prefer spicy)
  • Ginger garlic paste
  • Salt
  • cooking oil.

Method:
  • Grind the green gram and empty it in a bowl.Use very little water if needed.
  • Now,grind the coriander,the chillies, and salt together.Use some water if needed.
  • Add this to the green gram alongwith salt,according to taste.
  • Add about quarter cup of water for a good consistency.The mixture would look like this.
  • Heat your frying pan properly.it would be great if you have a nonstick one.
  • Use a round shaped shallow spoon to pour the batter on the pan and spread it evenly into round shape.
  • Put very little amount of oil throughout the sides of the cheela, and cover it with a lid.(The heat should be between medium and low flame).
  • This is done to prevent the cheela to stick to the pan,making it easier to flip.
  • After a minute uncover the pan,and check whether the lower layer of cheela is brown.If yes,flip it for the other side to get heated.The other side hardly needs few seconds.
  • The green gram cheela is ready.
  • Serve it with tomato ketchup or indian pickles.It's so soft and crispy too at the same time.

You can see in the picture,one side of the cheela looks brown,and the other looks green.
*Add salt cautiously ,alot of salt will spoil the taste completely, so add little by little after tasting the batter or mixture.
*If your cheela is breaking up on the pan,you can add a tablespoon of gram floor to the batter and try again .
*Also for each cheela try to use oil lesser than a  teaspoon.
*Few people complain that their stomach gets upset on consuming green gram,so don't try this if you have this problem.

Hope u like it!!

Eat healthy,Stay fit!!

Thursday, June 13, 2013

AT THE TOP: BURJ KHALIFA

The BURJ KHALIFA is a skyscraper in Dubai,and is the tallest man made structure in the world!!!!!
(Model picture)
Burj Khalifa was designed to be the centerpiece of a large-scale, mixed-use development that would include 30,000 homes, nine hotels (including The Address Downtown Dubai), 3 hectares (7.4 acres) of parkland, at least 19 residential towers, the Dubai Mall, and the 12-hectare (30-acre) man-made Burj Khalifa Lake.

This building is named BURJ KHALIFA in honour of the UAE President KHALIFA Bin ZAYED Al NAHYAN.

There are so many interesting facts about this huge achievement that I can't even list them down.
But i bet, you will surely be amazed when you check Wikipedia about all the records this tower has bagged up for itself.

My Visit to this fantabulous place:

We had already booked the tickets online,costed 130dhs per person.But if you get it right there it will cost you some 400dhs I guess.
Had to walk alot right from Dubai mall to The Burj Khalifa. The malls, I must say, are so huge here, you can never complete walking through the entire mall in a day.
This is what I came accross in Dubai mall. It's a beautiful Bride.!!!! awwww!!!

I stood there and clicked her pic,as if she was some great celeb.Yet,every girl is no less a celeb on her wedding day!! you have to agree :)


Here are my tickets.


We had to wait .. :( So,this is what they have setup at the waiting area.

This is the picture displayed there including all the tallest buildings around the world,among which quite visibly,the BURJ KHALIFA stands out.
The model has a display of few interesting facts about the tower at the bottom.One I remember is that the BURJ KHALIFA has 57 elevators!!!!

Soon I got the entry,at the entrance itself these people click a picture for you which you can buy later on your way back.
Now the journey starts!!!
All throughout the way the walls had a display of either the images of the great building or the amazing facts about it.I was glaring at everything as if I was to an alien land.


Got into the elevator, as it went up, I could feel my heart throbbing faster than ever,,,i just kept staring 64-72-89-93-100-115-124 STOP
My ears could feel it all,as I felt them going deaf after a gap of seconds.

So, I was AT THE TOP!!!!! Yipppppeeeeee !!!!

Can u make out the shadow of the tower?? This was around 5pm.

The teel colour area is the place where the fountain show is held every evening.
And this show is worth watching, music touching your heart, but the water dancing to it! Beautiful is the word.


I think all these taller buildings you see are from 20-40 floors.And I was at 124th. :)


This is the rest of the tower above the 124th floor,It is so tall!!!!!

You also have this great machine there.
With this, you can get the historic view, as well as night view and a live view of everything around the BURJ KHALIFA. I could see the Sheikh Zayed road,also Satwa and Jumeirah from right here.

They also have a shop on this floor that has mostly souvenirs,,and also books,bags,chocolates,pens,pencils etc.


I picked up some chocloates from Ronda.
I am so fond of mugs,coffee mugs,so I had to pick this very pretty ceramic mug.

This was all about what i got to see there,my legs cursed me alot for all the pain,but i finally did enter the world record breaking building!!! 


Keep exploring. keep experiencing!!!!


Tuesday, June 11, 2013

Thanks!!

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