These Indian deep-fried turnovers are stuffed with a spicy potato filling and have a light crisp exterior. They are wonderful for entertaining because they can be prepared in advance, although they must be cooked just before serving, like most Indian breads. MAKES 16...
Raisin Chutney
Chutneys are a type of Indian condiment or relish. They are concentrated in flavor and spicy, and so just a small spoonful on your plate is all that's needed to add piquancy to your meal. This is my favorite chutney. It has an intense flavor both sweet and spicy. It...
Puris (Deep-Fried Puffed Bread)
Once cooked, these flaky breads must be served immediately, which means that you'll be at the stove while everyone else is seated at the table. It actually isn't too troublesome because Puris take only a few minutes to cook, and if you are well organized you can do it...
Orange Raita
Raitas are the salad component of an Indian meal. Their cool, refreshing character serves to contrast with the spiciness of many dishes. SERVES 4 TO 6 1 large navel orange 1ВЅ cups plain yogurt ВЅ teaspoon ground cumin Вј teaspoon salt Wash the orange and dry very...
Orange Lassi
Lassi is the popular milkshake drink of India, made with buttermilk or yogurt and thinned with ice. It is served either sweetened, salted, or plain. Here is an interesting sweetened version that is made with orange juice and is served with crushed ice, Indian style....
Fruited Rice Curry
The contrast of sweet fruit and spicy rice is very appealing in this dish. I sometimes make a simple meal of this with plain yogurt alongside it, or accompany it with a saucy curry, such as Braised Curried Eggplant. SERVES 4 3 tablespoons oil 1 medium to large banana,...
Curried Cauliflower and Peas
This classic vegetable dish does wonders with cauliflower. Pair it with another dish such as Cashew Nut Curry, or serve it alongside rice and some plain yogurt for a simple meal. SERVES 4 1 large head cauliflower 6 tablespoons Ghee or butter 1ВЅ teaspoons turmeric 1ВЅ...
Cashew Nut Curry
The cashews in this quick Sri Lanka-style curry become very tender, and the sauce is delicate enough not to overpower their subtle flavor. Raw cashews are the ones to use for this dish. SERVES 4 2 tablespoons oil 1 medium onion, diced ВЅ fresh redВ chileВ pepperimage,...
Braised Curried Eggplant
When we were in college my sister Jacqueline and I would oftentimes spend days delving into cookbooks to plan some exotic feast, which we would then cook that weekend for friends. Our favorite cuisine was Indian, and the surprises it offered were seemingly endless....
Banana Raita
Combining mashed and sliced banana in this memorable raita gives it an appealing silken texture. SERVES 4 TO 6 2 large ripe bananas ВЅ teaspoon ground coriander Dash cayenne pepper Вј teaspoon salt 1 cup plain yogurt Peel 1 of the bananas and put it into a medium...
Baked Eggplant Stuffed with Curried Vegetables
Eggplant has a very prominent place in Indian vegetarian cooking for its resemblance to meat and because it absorbs spices so well. Although it is not a particularly nutritious vegetable, it can serve as the basis for a very substantial dish. This stuffed eggplant...
Walnut Loaf with Burgundy Sauce
This loaf makes an impressive entre for a Thanksgiving feast or any special occasion. Being a great fan of leftovers, I particularly look forward to leftover walnut loaf because it makes superb sandwiches, sliced and topped with mayonnaise or Russian dressing. SERVES...












