Choora Pickle Cut at BlueSea Fish Trivandrum

Pickle Cut ( Vella Choora) Tuna

 If you're looking for fish pickle cut, then Blue Sea Fish usually delivers pickle cut! Check out their daily updates to order fresh fish for your home. 

Bluesea Fish ( Whatsapp # 9633152213, 7593957002)
Vettucadu, Trivandrum

Fish delivery at your home, in Trivandrum

Bluesea Fish, Trivandrum

Connemara Market, Palayam

Connemara Market, Palayam, Trivandrum

 Not a great pic, but it shows our good old Connemara market light by the bright flood lights from a pole. 

About Connemara Market

Connemara Market, Trivandrum – Established in 1857, the Connemara Market, also known as Palayam Market, is one of the oldest and most significant markets in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. Named after Lord Connemara, the then Governor of Madras, the market has been a hub of trade for over a century, catering to the city's growing population.

Historically, it served as a key trading center for fresh produce, seafood, meat, and household essentials, attracting merchants and buyers from across the region. Today, the market continues to thrive, offering a blend of traditional and modern commerce, where local farmers, traders, and vendors sell everything from fresh vegetables and spices to electronics and textiles.

 Despite urbanization, Connemara Market remains a cultural and economic landmark, retaining its old-world charm while adapting to the city's evolving needs. 

Few suggestions for our city administrators:

1. Keep a plaque showing the history of this market, few old pictures, picture of Lord Connemara. Also, a QR code which will take to a website ( Trivandrum city website) for more information about the market. The writeup could be written by any professor or any history buffs in the city. Imagine, if a history department of a college is involved in creating a short and long article about this market. 

2. Many areas around the meat stalls are broken down. Probably, it would be reworked, rennovated. Also, a cafe and a clean loo could be opened for public as well as for the vendors. 


Connemara Market Tour!

If you're new to the city, and looking for cooking lessons, then you can get in touch with me for a customized cooking class. Also, I can take you on a short tour to Connemara Market or Chalai Market!

K P Pathrose Vaidyans Ayurveda Hospital Kumarapuram

Kizhi from Ayurveda Centre

Ayurvedic Hospital ( Front View)

Ayurveda Hospital, Kumarapuram

 Today, I had three German natives for an Indian cooking class. The recipes covered were vegetarian dishes as they were undergoing ayurveda treatment at a place called Linta’s Golden Beach Ayurvedic resort at Kadinamkulam, Trivandrum. 


So, in the 3 hrs, they learned to make vegetable biryani, panner dish, raita, kheer, etc. Another thing which they told me was that most guests who were staying at Linta's Golden Beach Ayurvedic resort were from Germany. That made me thing of the potential of bringing German tourists to different resorts in Kerala for various ayurvedic treatments.

Another resort in Trivadrum which has many German natives is Somatheeram Ayurveda Resort Ayurveda, Yoga and Meditation, located at a peaceful and captivatin setting near to Kovalam at Trivandrum. Check their website for more details. 


While they were here for a cooking class, I told them about kizhi and how they can buy these and take it with them. 

Btw, what is a kizhi?

Kizhi (also known as herbal poultice or potli massage) is an ancient Ayurvedic therapy where a warm bundle of medicinal herbs, spices, and oils is used for pain relief, detoxification, and relaxation. Traditionally used in Kerala Ayurvedic treatments, kizhi is excellent for treating joint pain, muscle stiffness, stress, and improving blood circulation.

How to Use Kizhi at Home? 

1️⃣ Prepare the Poultice – Take a clean cotton or muslin cloth, fill it with dried herbs, rock salt, or cooked medicinal leaves, and tie it into a bundle.

2️⃣ Heat It Up – Warm the kizhi in hot herbal oil or dry-roast it in a pan until it's comfortably warm (not too hot!).

3️⃣ Massage Gently – Apply the warm kizhi in circular or tapping motions over painful or stiff areas like the back, knees, or shoulders.

3 Tips for Using Kizhi Effectively

✅ Choose the Right Herbs – For joint pain, use turmeric, ginger, and rock salt; for stress relief, opt for sandalwood, rose petals, and vetiver.

✅ Maintain the Right Temperature – Keep reheating the kizhi in oil or a dry pan to maintain its warmth for maximum effect. Usually pan in kept on a slight flam and on the pan the kizhi is placed. While heating kizhi, avoid getting burned as the cloth used in thin.

✅ Use with an Ayurvedic Oil – Pairing kizhi with warm medicated oil like Mahanarayana oil enhances relaxation and healing.

Benefits of Using Kizhi 🌿

✔ Relieves muscle pain & joint stiffness 🦵

✔ Boosts circulation & detoxifies the body 💆‍♀️

✔ Reduces stress & promotes relaxation 😌

Btw, if you're visiting any Ayurvedic centres in Trivandrum, you can also take a short-break and join for one of my cooking class in Trivandrum. 

I have various classes to choose from and the duration of each class is 3 hrs. 

Ragi Dosa with Egg topping

Ragi Dosa

 Do you have ragi dosa for breakfast?
Which are the hotels in Trivandrum or elsewhere which serves food that's specifically good for people with diabetics?

Wish there was a menu in a hotel which is low carb and the ones which does not spike sugar levels?

Square One Talent Treats Trivandrum

Coffee and Short Eats at Square One Treats, Pattom LIC Road

 One of cafe/bakery spots where I visit regularly is Square One Treats. The usual order is mostly coffee adn sometimes it's cutlet or sandwich. 

One of fav things here is vattappam! However, these days it gets over fast and by the time I visit by 6:30PM it's long over. 

Btw, which is your fav cafe or bakery spot in Trivandrum where you regularly visit? And, what makes a cafe a good spot to revisit for food and conversation. 

Kera Choora ( Tuna) Vinadaloo

 

Tuna Vindaloo

Tuna ( Kera Choora)

My mom's side is from St Andrews near Kazhakootam, Trivandrum. In our family's culinary tradition, we make pork vindaloo. So, here I made an innovative twist on the classic vindaloo using tuna. While pork vindaloo is not traditionally widespread in Trivandrum, its popularity is indeed growing, with several restaurants incorporating it into their menus.​

Restaurants in Trivandrum Serving Pork Vindaloo:

One notable establishment offering pork vindaloo is the High Range Restaurant in Trivandrum, Nirvana and many others which are available on Swiggy app. ​

Simple Tuna Vindaloo Recipe:

Transforming the traditional vindaloo into a tuna-based dish offers a delightful variation. Here's a straightforward recipe to prepare Tuna Vindaloo:​

Ingredients:

• 500 grams tuna, cut into medium-sized pieces​
• 2 medium onions, finely chopped​
• 8 Kashmiri red chilies (adjust to spice preference)​
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder​
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard seeds​
• 2-inch piece of ginger
• 7-8 garlic cloves​
• Kitchen Corner-Try It
• 3 tablespoons vinegar​
• 2 cloves​
• 1-inch cinnamon stick​
• Salt, to taste​
• Oil, for cooking​

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vindaloo Paste: Soak the Kashmiri red chilies in warm water for about 15 minutes to soften them. Drain and grind them along with ginger, garlic, cumin seeds, ground mustard seeds, turmeric powder, pepper powder, and vinegar to form a smooth paste.​
   
   
2. Marinate the Tuna: Coat the tuna pieces with the vindaloo paste and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.​
   
   
3. Cooking: Heat oil in a pan and add cloves and cinnamon stick. Sauté for a few seconds until aromatic. Add the finely chopped onions and cook until they turn golden brown.​
   
   
4. Combine and Simmer: Add the marinated tuna to the pan, gently stirring to mix with the onions. Pour in the thick coconut milk and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the tuna is cooked through and the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.​
   
   
5. Finish: Sprinkle garam masala over the curry, adjust salt to taste, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.​

Serve: Enjoy the Tuna Vindaloo hot, paired with steamed rice, bread, or your preferred side.​

This recipe offers a spicy and tangy flavor profile, characteristic of traditional vindaloo, while incorporating the rich taste of tuna. 

Shawarma Spots in Trivandrum

Jurasic Shawarma

 

Noon Time Indulgence at Hotel Biverah Roof Top

Beef at Biverah Hotel, Kumarapuram

Kerala Parota and Beef 

 Kerala Parota and Beef:

A match made in culinary heaven, Kerala Parota and Beef Fry is the ultimate comfort food combo—flaky, layered parotas paired with spicy, succulent beef, bursting with flavors and aroma! 

Tips to Make Kerala Parota at Home:

To get soft and flaky Kerala Parotas at home, use all-purpose flour (maida) and a generous amount of oil or ghee while kneading the dough.

Let the dough rest for at least an hour to make it elastic and easy to stretch. Rolling the dough thin and folding it into layers is key to achieving the signature flaky texture. Cook on medium heat, brushing with oil, until golden and crispy on the outside. For best results, give the cooked parotas a gentle clap between your hands to separate the layers and enhance the fluffiness.

If you're looking to learn Kerala Parota and other beef dishes, then I have classes where you can enroll to learn these in 3 hrs!

Homestays and Service Apartments in Kumarapuram

 

Ritu Homestay, Kumarapuram ( Popular)

Aastha Service Apartment, Kumarapuram 

Graceful Homestay - Pothujanam Road, Kumarapuram

Stay@Home TVM heritage homestay

Budget Stay, Vidhara Rooms, Kumarapuram ( Price around 700Rs)

Recently a foreigner called me to enquire about my cooking class. She was looking for Kerala recipe, especially veg dishes. As she was in Varkala when she called me, she checked with me if I could suggest places to stay near to my house. 

At first I suggested Graceful Homestay. But, that was booked. Next, I suggested Ritu Home stay which she later booked. 

So, based on such enquires from students, I decided to google and find out the possible places of stay for those who are planning to attend my cooking class and stay in nearby location. 

So, here are the phone numbers and details of quick reference:

1. Aastha Service Apartment at Kumarapuram

I know the owner of this property. He manages three furnished places, which are well maintained with kitchen and air conditioned bedrooms. 

Address of Aastha:

Poonthi Road, Medical College, PO, PRA 4, Kumarapuram, Trivandrum

Ph# 08606999650, 9995111626, Whatsapp 8606999650

email: arunmithra1969@gmail.com
Website: https://aasthahomestaytvm.com/  

-----------------------------------------------------------------

2. Ritu Homestay 

Address: Thopil Nagar #22, Kumarapuram, Medical College, P.O, Tvm 
Ph#094473 99834 

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3. Graceful Homestay ( Popular with foreigners) Serene place ideal for peaceful stay in a 4 acre property)

Location: PHRA #20 - 21, Philips Hill, Pothujanam Road, Opp. A.J. Hall, Kumarapuram, Trivandrum 
Ph# 0471 244 4358 

Mobile: +91 9847249556, 8129137203 

Website: http://gracefulhomestay.com/ 

-----------------------------------------------------

4. Vidhara Rooms for Budget Stay ( Price around 700 Rs)

Vidhara Tower, Junction, near to Medical College, Friends Nagar, Kumarapuram, Trivandrum

 Ph#094473 43460 for room availability and booking. This is a building right at the Kumarapuram signal. 

-----------------------------------------------
5. Stay@Home TVM heritage homestay


Address: Chettikunnu, Friends Nagar, Kumarapuram, Trivandrum

Ph# •092077 36887 

--------------------------------------------

Private Chef For Hire in Trivandrum!

 

Private Chef For Hire

Private Chef for Hire: Turning Culinary Skills into a Profitable Side Hustle 🍽️

I noticed the above poster which was shared by someone on my Facebook. It's about private chef for hire in UK. Seeing this poster I thought that such a concept could be done here. Probably some chefs or restaurants in Trivandrum or Bangalore can promote as an add on service. 

What you say?

Though this trend of private chefs is common in foreign countries, this is only gaining popularity in the recent years.  Probably, high net worth individuals in metros might be using such services. So, what could be the potential of such a service in places like Trivandrum and Kochi? Wonder how many restaurants are promoting their chefs or team for private function! How much visibility do they give for such services? 

So, whether it’s for intimate family gatherings, special celebrations, or even meal prepping for busy professionals, private chefs can do a specialized task. For home chefs, independent cooks, and small hotels, offering private chef services can be a great way to diversify income and gain recognition in the local food scene.

🌟 Why Offer Private Chef Services?

High Demand for Customization: People love personalized meals that cater to their preferences and dietary restrictions.

Event-Based Opportunities: Birthdays, anniversaries, and special celebrations often call for unique, handcrafted meals.

Income Diversification: For chefs with good social media following or a home cook looking to diversify can promote the services using Facebook and Instagram. It's a good way to  make extra income without investing in a full-scale catering business.

📝 How to Get Started as a Private Chef:

Create a Captivating Poster:

• Highlight your services with a clear and attractive design.
• Mention your specialties, such as momos, bao, custom ice creams, or fusion dishes.
• Include your contact details and social media handles for easy reach.

Define Your Niche:

• Focus on unique dishes often served by catering agencies, like momos, bao, gourmet rolls, or specialty desserts.
• Offer a signature dish to set yourself apart, like handcrafted sushi or custom-themed cakes.

Set Up a Social Media Presence:

• Share your creations, client reviews, and cooking videos to build trust.
• Engage with local community groups and food lovers online.
• Collaborate with Small Hotels and Restaurants:

Offer your services as a special guest chef for themed nights or custom menus.

Hotels can promote private dining experiences, especially on special occasions.

Offer Package Deals:

1. Create flexible packages like "Dinner for Two," "Family Feast," or "Party Platter."
2. Clearly outline the menu and pricing to make booking easy for clients.

💡 Tips to Make It Profitable:

• Leverage Social Proof: Ask happy clients for testimonials and showcase them.
• Get Creative: Experiment with fusion dishes or themed cuisines to attract curious foodies.
• Build a Network: Connect with event planners or party organizers to get more bookings.

Private chef services are not just about cooking; they’re about creating an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a home cook looking to make extra income or a small hotel wanting to impress guests, this side hustle can be incredibly rewarding. So, fire up those stoves and get cooking—your community is hungry for something unique! 🍜

Restaurants in Trivandrum like Paragon, or Azad or Imperial Kitchen or Mascot Hotel, or even the new hotels like Chai Kari, or Big Belly Momos, etc can try this concept. 

Coffee at Malabar Bites, Trivandrum

 

Malabar Bites - Interiors

Egg Sandwich

Cinnamon Bun at Malabar Bites

Coffee at Malabar Bites

Today is Ash Wednesday and after the church service, we visited Malabar Bites for coffee. Here are few pictures from the shop. 

Btw, if you're starting a similar coffee shop in Trivandrum, what are the common challenges you will face? How will you make your menu appealing to young audiences? Where are the places where there's more growth potential for coffee shops. 

Let me tell you this - not all shops are making money. Some are struggling with low footfalls. Also, there's always sometime it takes for people to know your taste, offering and then then start to hang around your shop! 

Where do you buy the glass chiller and other kitchen tables in Trivandrum? 
What are the basic equipments required for a coffee shop like the one seen in the picture? 

Fresh Fish Store near Kumarapuram

Go Fish, Kumarapuram

 Often when I have cooking class, I buy fish from Go Fish or sometimes from Blue Sea Fish. Other popular places to buy fish is Premier Cold Storage or from Kunnil Hypermarket, Medical College. 

Btw, I had couple of cooking classes where foreigners asked for Kerala dishes. They had specifically asked or fish dishes like Fish Molee, Kerala fish curry, appam, etc. 

In a typical class, I teach around four to five dishes. The duration of the class is 3 hrs where they get hands-on experience in making the dishes. Some people prefer veg. For them I teach Dosa, Sambar, Chuteny, Panner, Appam, etc. 

The fee for each student starts from Rs 2,800. For groups, the fee is less for each student. 

If you're looking for a cooking lesson, you can contact me via mennasdelight at gmail dot come or text me at +91 9379398865 

Medical College Trivandrum Views

Physical Rehabilitation Centre - Medical College Trivandrum

Medical College Entrance 

Passing in front of Trivandrum medical College, here are few pictures. Today, I came this spot to have a coffee from a popular tea shop called Malabar Bites. 

Other pictures from Malabar Bites. 
 

Vellankani Trip ( 3/8/2012) Notes

Things to Carry - Note

Vellankani Trip in 2012

 Quite unexpectedly, I came across the old book where I noted the cost of Vellankani Trip in 2012. It was the trip when I tonsured my head after I made a vow when I had bouts of typhoid in B'lore. 

So, where do you stay when you visit Vellankani shrine? As long as I remember, we usually stay at Seagate Hotel. 

Often I feel that general  cleanliness is one thing that needs to be improved in the locality. I'm sure they are doing a log to keep people to clean the area, but it's time they use more automated and advanced dust suction trucks and pickups. 

So, what are the type of trucks which are usually used in western countries to collect waste paper, leaves and dust.  

itter Vacuum Truck
Pierce County's first litter vacuum truck joined our fleet in 2024. ( Link to the website for reference)

Janatha Chicken from KEPCO

 

Janatha Chicken

MPI and KEPCO Chicken

While passing by Pettah, I stopped at the KEPCO outlet to enquire about the chicken pieces which they sell for Rs 100 a packet. This packet has chicken wings, breast pieces (without the meat) and other portions. It's good for making soup, or giving to my Hugo! 

Based on this purchase, I visited a shop near Kumarapuram, and enquired about the chicken. The owner said that now they have discontinued that packet. Now the price of this packet is around 150. 

Wonder why they discontinued the 100 rs packet! 

Btw, for more information, you can visit http://kepco.co.in/# ( Site has many format issues and the design looks pretty old and content too). When I posted this link oen of teh price list uploaded on the site is showing 2023 year details. Wonder why it's so hard to update content on the site. 

One more suggestion to KEPCO. Is it possible to list your products on Swiggy Insta Mart! It makes buying these fresh cuts instantly till 2AM and starting from early morning 7AM. 

Also, on the site there are names which are easily understood by the public. For instance, what does Parent Meat mean to a common man? ( Is it that the meat will require more boiling or it it that chicken is usually 2kg plus or any useful information of its cooking can help the buyer)

So, give a short description about each item so that it becomes easy for the buyer. 

Parent Meat or Stock

KEPCO Website Screenshot 

Meen Peera

 

Meen Peera

Turmeric and Spices at Chalai Market

Turmeric ( roots)

Ginger

 

Vinayaka Coffee at Chalai Trivandrum

 

Appam and Egg

Appam for Breakfast

Boiled Egg

• What's the your fav combination with appam? 
• Do you like stew with beef, chicken or veg?
• How often do you make appam at home?

Recently a relative who's living in UK for many years came down to Trivandrum? He had few questions about making dosa and appam as they have lost touch making Indian breakfast at home. One doubt he had was about choosing the type of garam masala from the Indian store. I felt that's a genuine  question as there are different types of garam masala. 

So, if you're making Kerala style recipe, then it's important to choose the packeted masala which is suitable for Kerala type recipes!


Check out my appam recipe on this blog. 


 

🔸 Mid-Morning Energy Boost for Seniors!

Steamed Banana and Boiled Egg

 As we age, maintaining steady energy levels is important. Seniors often need a small, nutritious meal between breakfast and lunch to stay active and avoid fatigue. A perfect mid-morning snack around 11 AM is a simple yet effective combination—boiled egg and boiled banana.

Why This Combo Works?

🥚 Boiled Egg – A rich source of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins, it helps in muscle strength and overall well-being.

🍌 Boiled Banana – Packed with natural sugars, fiber, and potassium, it provides sustained energy without causing spikes in blood sugar.

This duo is easy to digest, nourishing, and perfect for seniors who need a light yet fulfilling snack.

Other Healthy Mid-Morning Snack Options for Seniors

If you're looking for variety, here are some other Kerala-style mid-morning snacks that are equally beneficial:

✔ Steamed Sweet Potato (Kappa or Madhura Kizhangu) – A great source of fiber and energy.

✔ Ragi Malt (Finger Millet Drink) – Strengthens bones and keeps digestion smooth.

✔ Tender Coconut Water with Nuts – Refreshing and rich in electrolytes.

✔ Light Rice Porridge (Kanji) with Buttermilk – Easy on the stomach and nourishing.

✔ Idiyappam with Light Stew – Soft, easy to chew, and provides sustained energy.

✔ Homemade Aval Nanachathu (Sweetened Poha with Coconut & Jaggery) – A natural energy booster.

Parava Fish Curry

Parava Fish ( Cleaned and Ready for Fish Curry Making)

 Parava fish is also known as false trevally or Malabar king fish in English. It's a popular, meaty fish that's found in the Indian Ocean and the Bay of Bengal. 

Kerala Trivandrum-Style Parava Fish Curry (With Coconut & Tamarind)

This traditional fish curry is made with Parava (False Trevally), coconut, and tamarind, giving it a rich and flavorful taste.

Ingredients:

1. Parava (False Trevally) fish – 250g, cleaned and cut
2. Shallots – 10, finely chopped
3. Garlic – 4 cloves, crushed
4. Ginger – 1-inch piece, crushed
5. Green chilies – 2, slit
6. Curry leaves – 1 sprig
7. Coconut oil – 2 tbsp
8. Mustard seeds – ½ tsp
9. Fenugreek seeds – ¼ tsp
10. Turmeric powder – ½ tsp
11. Red chili powder – 1 tbsp
12. Coriander powder – 1½ tbsp
13. Grated coconut – 1 cup
14. Tamarind (normal tamarind pulp) – Lemon-sized ball, soaked in ½ cup warm water
15. Water – 1½ cups
16. Salt – to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Coconut Paste

Dry roast the grated coconut in a pan until light brown.

Add coriander powder, chili powder, and turmeric powder. Roast for a minute on low flame.

Let it cool, then grind it into a smooth paste with a little water.

2. Cook the Masala

Heat coconut oil in a clay pot (manchatti) or pan.

Add mustard seeds, let them splutter. Add fenugreek seeds.

Add chopped shallots, garlic, ginger, and green chilies. Sauté until golden brown.

Add curry leaves and stir.

3. Add Tamarind & Coconut Paste

Strain the soaked tamarind pulp and pour it in. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.

Add the ground coconut paste, mix well, and add 1½ cups of water. Let it boil.

4. Cook the Fish

Once the curry starts boiling, add the cleaned Parava fish.

Reduce the flame to low, cover, and cook for 10 minutes until the fish is done.


P.S This fish has soft meat. So, try to cook in low flame. It's also good fish to make a recipe where we fry the fish and then make a coconut gravy. 

Parava Fish Curry

Don't Assume - Follow It Up - Note To Self

Note to Self

 Today an incident happened that I thought I make a poster of it. I gave an instruction to a person, and I assumed it was done. 

But, the person whom I gave instruction forgot about it and the task was not done. So, what's the lesson here. Just remind the person before the task and make sure they know about it. Often when we're busy, we forget to do things which others ask us to do or thing which we tell others. 

📌 Follow-Up Matters!

✔ Say it once, then remind before the deadline

✔ A quick message can ensure progress

✔ Don’t nag, but do check

✔ Offer help if they’re stuck

✔ Confirm, appreciate, and move on

Conclusion:

A task assigned is not a task completed—follow up!

Zest for Life and Fresh Experience - Emma from Netherlands

With Emma after the class 

Some days leave a lasting imprint on the heart, and today was one such day. I had the pleasure of spending a wonderful Sunday with Emma from the Netherlands, the land of tulips. At 75, she is full of life, drive, and an insatiable love for traveling and learning different cuisines. Along with her husband and brother, she is on an incredible journey across India, embracing new experiences with enthusiasm.

Emma was eager to learn and make Butter Chicken, Roti, Pulav, and Kadai Chicken, and her excitement was truly worth seeing. As much as she learned from me, I learned so much more from her—about resilience, the beauty of life’s journey, and the importance of staying curious no matter our age. With three children and eight grandchildren, she carries a lifetime of stories, wisdom, and warmth.

In my 13 years of conducting cooking and baking classes, there are rare moments that touch the soul deeply. When she said goodbye, looking into my eyes with such warmth, I felt an emotional connection that was hard to describe—I just didn’t want to let her go.

This experience also made me think of the people around her age who lives in Trivandrum or other places in Kerala. It's a norm for people who are beyond 70 or 75 or even 60 to think that their job in life is over and now they either look forward to doing sedentary activities, or babysit or running errands, be in the kitchen helping the family. 

Truly, age is just a number when the heart is young and full of zest to learn more, see more, and experience more in life. 



P.S Btw, I should thank Arun who runs a homestay at Kumarapuram called Aastha Homes for referring her to me. Check out his place in case you require furnished two bedroom place to stay. 

Flavours of the Past by Bridget White

 

Bridget White

Fr Joy Prakash Gifted this to me

Two eventful images on this post. One is the recipe book which Fr Joy Prakash gifted me. Another is the book by Bridget White who is a pioneer in Anglo Indian recipes. 

Check out the YouTube channel by Bridget White. 

I think I met Bridget White during Anglo Indian meet in 2010 at Bangalore Palace. During that meet, I had a food stall where I sold Plum Cake, Wine, Beef Cutlet, Beef omlette, and other short eats. It was a great experience to participate is such events, as I met many new people from different walks of life and the overall experience of setting a stall. 

Here's a news report about The Anglo-Indian Jamboree

Soup Time and Soup Making Class

Soup Making Class

Soup Time

 Learn to make 5 restaurant-style soups in just 2 hours!

✔ Tomato Soup 🍅

✔ Vegetable Soup 

✔ Chicken Clear Soup 

✔ Chinese Chicken Sweet Corn Soup 

👨‍🍳 Perfect for beginners & home cooks!

For online class or recorded session, you can contact me via mennasdelight at gmail dot com 

Kapi Time

Kapi from Rameshwaram Coffee

 I had two coffee from this start-up coffee place in Bangalore, called The Rameshwaram Cafe. By now, this shop has earned its name as one of the most successful restaurant biz in Bangalore. 

This pic is from it's relatively new outlet at 100 Ft road, which has more space, seating capacity. 

Kudos for the Big Dreams, The Rameshwaram Cafe! 

CCabbage Thoran Dish

 

Cabbage Thoran

Cabbage Thoran – A Kerala-Style Veg Dish

🥬 What is Cabbage Thoran?

Cabbage Thoran is a simple, flavorful Kerala-style stir-fry made with cabbage, coconut, and mild spices. It is a staple in Kerala’s traditional meals (Sadya) and is typically served with rice.

Key Features:

 Healthy & Light – Uses minimal oil and fresh ingredients.

Coconut-Based – Fresh grated coconut enhances the taste.

Mildly Spiced – Uses mustard seeds, green chilies, and turmeric.

Quick & Easy – Takes about 15 minutes to prepare.

Common Side Dish – Served with rice and sambar/rasam.

Basic Ingredients:

• Cabbage (finely chopped)
• Coconut (grated)
• Mustard seeds, turmeric, green chilies
• Curry leaves, shallots, and garlic (optional)
• Coconut oil for authentic flavor

Btw, if you're looking to learn Kerala veg dishes, while you're in Trivandrum, then you can contact me at mennasdelight at gmail dot com 

Boiled Egg and Chilly Salt and Oil

Boiled Egg

Fresh coriander leaves from the market

 These days my mom eats boiled egg and boiled banana by 11 ish. It usually keeps her hunger pangs aways and it gives her the energy too. Also, I've been thinking of other foods which is ideal for aged people. Do you have other suggestions about food that can be given to diabetic people, as food between breakfast and lunch. 

Use of Coriander Leaves in Kerala-Style Fish Curry & Rasam

Kerala Fish Curry: Fresh coriander leaves are rarely used, but if added, they provide a mild freshness at the end.

Rasam: Chopped coriander leaves are sprinkled on top just before serving, enhancing the aroma and adding a fresh, citrusy note.

Flavor Profile of Coriander Leaves

Coriander leaves have a fresh, citrusy, slightly peppery flavor and belong to the "herbal & citrus" flavor category.