Some days, nothing hits the spot quite like Indian food. (Or, for some of us, that's most days.) This week was a treat as the aroma of garlic, ginger, masala spice, and paprika filled the air for hours while the meal was prepared and eaten. It was a great reminder that so much of our enjoyment of food has to do with our sense of smell! This is a dish we are likely to see again in the near future...
Chana Masala
Serves 8
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 onions, diced
6 cloves garlic, sliced thinly
2-3 inches ginger root, peeled & grated
2 tablespoons garam masala spice blend (worldspice.com)
2 teaspoons paprika
1 lg can diced tomatoes, with juice
3 cans garbanzo beans, drained & rinsed
Salt to taste (start with 2 teaspoons and go from there)
1 1⁄2 cups water
1 can coconut milk
1⁄2 bunch cilantro (leaves & stems), chopped
Method:
1. In a large saucepan, heat the oil over medium heat, then add the onions. Cook about 10 minutes, until the onions are translucent & slightly browned. Add the garlic, ginger, garam masala & paprika, and cook 5 minutes more.
2. Add the tomatoes and cook until most of the liquid has evaporated and the tomatoes darken.
3. Add the garbanzo beans, 2 teaspoons salt and the water. Bring to a boil, then turn down the heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Add the coconut milk and cilantro, taste for seasoning, then serve over rice.
Mango Lassi
Serves 6
Ingredients:
3 cups frozen mango cubes
3 cups nonfat yogurt
1 1⁄2 cups coconut milk
1⁄4 cup sugar
Method:
1. Blend everything in a blender until smooth, and enjoy!