Wednesday, January 30, 2013

Homemade curry powder

I was on a cleaning spree and cleaned up my pantry and fridge. I saw that there was a loner in the fridge, a big green capsicum. I then quickly made this sabzi with homemade curry powder/ podi potta kaai which tastes yummy and delicious. You can make the powder and store it for a few days (approx.15 days) in the fridge. The method to make this delicious curry powder is very simple and is as follows.



Ingredients:

Corriander Seeds - 1 tbsp
Cumin seeds - 1/2 tbsp
Black pepper - 10 count
Dry Red chillies - 5-6
Urad Dal - 1 tsp
Chana Dal - 1 tsp
Poppy seeds / Khus Khus- 1 tsp
Sesame seeds - 1/2tbsp
Cinnamon - 1 inch piece
Cloves - 2 
Dry coconut/ Copra - 3 tbsp
Fenugreek / Methi seeds - 1/2 tsp
Curry leaves - 7-8

Method:

  • Dry roast all these ingredients until a nice aroma comes out.
  • Cool them and grind them to a medium coarse powder.
  • Add it to vegetables like capsicum, potato, brinjal/ eggplant and serve with Rasam rice.
  • Enjoy!!!

Sundal Kulambu / Channa Kuzhambu | Indian Curry Recipes




I made this Sundal Kulambu for a cozy lazy lunch one day. I am proud to say this kulambu-rice combo does not need any side dish but papads would be a lovely pair if needed. This is my MIL's recipe handwritten for my DH when he first came to US. There are a handful of recipes, all his favorite foods which she had chosen to write. I have tried quite a few of them and this sundal kuzhambu is one

Tuesday, January 29, 2013

6 Reasons Why Winter is the Perfect Time for Home Remodeling Projects

Kitchen Remodel Done by KHI
Winters in New England can be brutal. It seems we spend a lot of time indoors at this time of year which makes winter a good time to focus on your home and undertake updates or repairs that you’ve been putting off. Others will escape the cold and snow by heading south. Some homeowners we’ve worked with have found the time when they’re away to be an ideal time to undertake a remodeling project. Having the work done while you’re away means your home life won’t be disrupted.

If you’re thinking about a home remodeling project, here are several reasons why winter may be the best time to do your project:

  1. Flexibility in Scheduling. It is usually easier for some contractors to schedule work in winter months because there is a lot less exterior work being done. This will free up a contractor’s schedule for interior projects such as painting, replacing flooring, repairing drywall, updating lighting and replacing cabinetry.
  1. More Availability. During the winter you may find that your contactor may have more time to work with you in planning and designing your project. This would be a good time for refining the details before the work begins. This process may take slightly longer as work picks up for your contractor in the spring with outdoor projects.

  2. Avoid Spring Price Increases. Now is the time to take advantage of lower prices. For example, if you’re remodeling your kitchen, you may find close-out prices on appliances and be able to purchase materials before manufacturers increase prices. During the winter, manufacturers may feature special offers to reduce inventory. 

  3. Outside Projects. If the weather cooperates, you may be able to work with your contractor on outside projects to get ready for spring. Some contactors will even build decks, porches and additions for their customers in the winter.

  4. Vacation Time. If you are planning a vacation, it may be the perfect time to have your project done to avoid disruption of your daily activities.
Contact Kruse Home Improvement at 860.584.8784 if you'd like to obtain a price estimate for your next remodeling project. 


Source: http://www.mcclurgteam.com/blog/bid/50614/7-Reasons-Why-Winter-is-the-Perfect-Time-for-Home-Remodeling-Projects/