TheMonsoon is here and we just can’t resist the pleasant weather, cloudy sky, and cool breeze, which fills our hearts with joy. While it is a good time to get relief from the scorching summer heat, the season might not be a very joyful time for the ones with an oily skin type due to the never-ending humidity! It is when your skin demands more attention.
Instead of going after chemical-based products, you can try a few homemade recipes with natural ingredients to prep your skin well before. Here are a few skincare recipes shared by Tufan Das, a wellness creator on ShareChat:
Milk and Honey Facewash
Ingredients:
Milk
Honey
Instructions:
Combine one teaspoon of honey with two teaspoons of raw milk, ensuring thorough mixing.
Apply the mixture evenly onto the face and gently massage for 2-3 minutes. Rinse your face with lukewarm water.
This milk and honey facewash effectively brightens the skin and eliminates excess facial oil. It’s particularly beneficial for individuals with sensitive skin, making it an exceptional homemade cleanser.
Lentil and raw milk scrub
Ingredients:
Lentils
Raw milk
Instructions:
To create this scrub, soak lentils in water overnight. Afterwards, blend the soaked lentils with raw milk until smooth.
Apply the resulting paste onto your neck, throat, and face. Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes before rinsing off with plain water. Using this scrub 2 to 3 times a week offers two key benefits: exfoliating your skin and promoting a radiant complexion.
Cold Cucumber Face Pack
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel or juice
1/4 grated cucumber
Instructions:
Combine the grated cucumber and aloe gel, creating a revitalizing mixture.
Gently apply the pack to your face and neck, allowing it to soothe and nourish your skin.
Leave the pack on for 15 minutes to maximize its effectiveness. Rinse off with warm water.
Benefits:
Rejuvenation: Aloe vera’s natural properties, combined with the cooling effects of cucumber, work together to revitalize your skin, leaving it feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Hydration: The hydrating elements of aloe vera and cucumber deeply moisturize your skin, helping to combat dryness and leaving your complexion supple and radiant. Indulge in the power of nature with this Aloe Vera and Cucumber Facial Pack, and enjoy the crisp and invigorating benefits it brings to your skincare routine.
Oats and Lentils Ubtan
Ingredients:
1/2 cup oats
1 cup lentils
1/4 cup rice flour
8-9 almonds
1 pinch of turmeric powder
Rose water (as needed)
Instructions:
Grind lentils, oats, and almonds separately.
Mix the ground lentils, oats, and almonds together in a bowl.
Add rice flour and turmeric powder to the mixture.
Gradually add rose water and mix well until a smooth paste is formed.
Apply the paste on your face, hands, and neck, covering the desired areas.
Leave the pack on for 15-20 minutes.
Once the pack is dry, wash it off.
Oats cleanse the skin from within and promote skin softness.
Enjoy the revitalizing effects of this homemade face pack!
Deep Cleansing: With the natural cleansing properties of oats, lentils, and almonds, this face pack effectively removes impurities and excess oil from the skin. Oats eliminate dirt and toxins, while lentils gently exfoliate, removing dead skin cells. Together, they work to deeply cleanse the skin, leaving it refreshed and revitalized.
Skin Softening: Thanks to the presence of oats, this face pack offers remarkable skin softening benefits. Oats contain moisturizing compounds that hydrate and nourish the skin, resulting in a smoother and more supple complexion. Regular use.
Rose Petal Moisturizer
Ingredients:
One cup of rose petals
One cup of Rosewater
One cup of Aloe vera juice
Instructions:
Take a bowl and add a small amount of rose water. Heat it up and mix it with the rose petals. Allow the petals to steep in the water by soaking them several times.
Combine two tablespoons of aloe vera juice with the rose-infused liquid. Mix them well and let the mixture cool down to room temperature.
Once the moisturizer reaches room temperature, transfer it into an airtight glass container. Ensure the container is sealed tightly. This will help preserve the moisturizer’s freshness.
To maintain its quality, store the moisturizer in the refrigerator. It will remain good for approximately 15-20 days.
This moisturizer is enriched with rose petals, which contribute to reducing acne and breakouts while enhancing the skin’s radiance. Apply it regularly to enjoy its benefits.
Note: It’s always recommended to perform a patch test before applying any new face pack to ensure you don’t have any adverse reactions.
Celebrate the unsung heroes of our lives this Father’s Day. From their strength and wisdom to their unwavering love and support, fathers truly deserve our heartfelt appreciation. Let’s take a moment to recognize the remarkable impact fathers have on our lives and express our gratitude for all they do. Happy Father’s Day to all the extraordinary dads out there!
This Father’s Day let’s delight our dads with some delightful and mouth-watering meals crafted by Chef Aji Joseph, Head, Culinary Development, FreshToHome. It’s time to surprise our fathers with a culinary experience they won’t forget.
CHICKEN LOLLIES IN A SWEET CHILLY SAUCE
Seasoned chicken mince patties skewered with lolly sticks grilled and tossed in a sweet chilli sauce.
Sweet chilli sauce Ingredients:
Refined oil: 3 tbsp
Garlic chop: 1 tsp
Ginger chop: 1 tsp
Chilli flakes: 1 tsp
Tomato paste: 50 gm
Soy sauce: 3 tbsp
Honey: 3 tbsp
Sugar: 1 tsp
Corn flour: 2 tsp
Water: 100 ml
Sweet chilli sauce making method:
In a saucepan heat up the oil and saute the ginger and garlic and add the chilli flakes.
Add the tomato paste and mix.
Once the paste is mixed well add the honey and sugar and mix well.
To this, add the water mixed with corn flour and allow to give a boil and take off the fire.
Chicken patty Ingredients:
Chicken mince: 500 gm
Onion (fine chop):2 tbsp
Celery (fine chop): 1 tsp
Garlic (fine chop):1 tsp
Ginger (fine chop):1 tsp
Carrot (fine chop):1 tbsp
Coriander stem (fine chop): 1 tbsp
Sesame oil: 4 tbsp
Soy sauce:1 tbsp
Sesame white (whole): 1 tsp
Salt: 1 tbsp
Egg: 1 nos
Breadcrumbs:50 gms
Sweet chilli sauce:5 tbsp
Wooden lolly sticks (cut into half): 30 nos
Chicken patty making Method:
Heat up a saucepan and saute all the veggies till translucent.
Remove from fire and transfer the sauteed veggies to a plate and allow to come to room temperature.
In a bowl place the chicken mince and to it add all the other ingredients and sauteed veggies.
Mix well and make 20 gm sized dumplings. In a round cutlet mould, press the dumplings to a round patty shape.Remove the patty from themould and pierce the patty with the lolly stick taking it all the way to the center resembling a popsicle.
Heat up a non-stick fry pan and apply some oil.Place the chicken patties with lolly sticks and grill on both sides on a low flame and allow them to cook.
To the grilled patties add a fewtablespoons of sweet chilli sauce and toss so that the sauce coats all around the patties.
Arrange the hot lollies on a plate with a bowl of sauce served along as a dip.
PEEL & EAT GARLIC PRAWNS
One of the simplest recipes to make in a jiffy.
Whole prawns with shell is pan sauteed with garlic, olives and parsley.
One of the easiestrecipes to make this prawn preparation with garlic,olives,chili flakes and parsley makesit very exotic, and the addition of white wine lifts the dish to a different level. The quick cooking retains all the goodness and flavourof the prawns.
The outside shell turns a beautiful orangish red, and that’s quite a visual treat.
This PEEL & EAT PRAWNS becomes a fun activity by itself along with good company and conversation.
Ingredients:
Prawn with shell: 250 gm
Olive oil (pomace): 30 ml
Prawns (head removed and shell cut open and inside intestine removed): 250 gm
Garlic slice: 10 cloves
Chilli flakes: 1 tsp
Olive slices: 5 black & 5 green olives
White wine: 50 ml
Parsley: 2 tbsp
Salt: 1 tsp
Butter: 20 gm
Lemon wedges: 4 nos
Ingredients for butter sauce:
Butter(salted): 50 gm
Lemon juice: half a lemon
Parsley chop: 2 pinches
Soften the butter and mix the lemon juice and parsley to form a soft butter dip.
Method:
Detach and remove the prawn heads and discard. With a sharp knife slit open the top or hump side of the prawn along with the shell. Slightly open the slit portion and remove the veins in running water.
Heat up a non-sticksaucepan. Add olive oil and sliced garlic and saute to golden.To this, add the chili flakes.Drop the cleaned prawns into this hot pan and toss. Add the white wine, olive slices and salt. Toss till the white wine is evaporated. Add the chopped parsley,lemon wedges and butter and toss again. Don’t allow the butter to burn but just coat the prawns which gives them a buttery and silky coating.
Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with some chopped parsley.Serve along with the butter lemon dip.
Including healthy smoothies and juices in your daily routine is an excellent way to increase your energy, vitality, and overall well-being…reports N. Lothungbeni Humtsoe
Maintaining high energy levels and vitality is necessary for our fast-paced lifestyles to keep up with daily obligations and have a meaningful lifestyle. Incorporating healthy smoothies and juices into our diet is one effective and delicious way to achieve high energy levels and vitality, suggests Chef Gauri Varma, Founder, and Owner at G’s Patisserie and Confect. She says, ” These nutrient-dense concoctions can deliver a natural energy boost, improve general well-being, and contribute to a healthier lifestyle.”
Here are some of the varieties of refreshing and revitalizing smoothie and juice recipes that will boost your energy and enliven your day shared exclusively by Chef Gauri.
Energising Green Machine Smoothie:
Begin your days with a colorful green smoothie that will give you a great energy boost. A handful of spinach or kale, half an avocado, a frozen banana, a tablespoon of almond butter, a teaspoon of spirulina powder, and a cup of unsweetened almond milk should be blended together in a blender. Enjoy this nutrient-dense green machine that supplies critical vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats after blending until smooth.
Tropical Paradise Juice:
A refreshing and unique juice blend will transport you to a tropical sanctuary. Juice two ripe oranges, one pineapple, and a little piece of ginger. Mix with a splash of lime juice and a drizzle of raw honey. This tropical paradise juice is not only delicious but also high in vitamin C, enzymes, and antioxidants, offering an energizing rush of energy and supporting overall vitality.
Berry Burst Smoothie:
Berries are filled with antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, making them nature’s tiny powerhouses. Blend a handful of mixed berries, such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries, in a blender. A ripe banana, a scoop of Greek yogurt, a spoonful of ground flaxseed, and a splash of coconut water are all good additions. Blend till smooth, then enjoy the delectable berry burst smoothie that will enhance your vitality and support your general well-being.
Citrus Zing Juice:
Citrus fruits are known for their refreshing and energizing properties. Juice three oranges, one grapefruit, and one lemon. Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper and a spoonful of maple syrup. This citrus zing juice is high in vitamin C, electrolytes, and natural sugars, delivering a natural energy boost while also boosting immunological health and digestion.
Protein Power Smoothie:
Try the protein power blend for a pleasant and muscle-replenishing smoothie. In a blender, add a scoop of your favorite protein powder (such as whey, pea, or hemp), a ripe banana, a handful of spinach, a spoonful of almond butter, and a cup of unsweetened almond milk. Blend until smooth, then serve this protein-packed smoothie to help with muscle rehabilitation.
Green Detox Juice:
A green detox juice will provide your body with a refreshing detoxifying boost. Juice a cucumber, a handful of kale or spinach, a celery stalk, half a lemon, and a small piece of ginger. This revitalizing juice is high in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, which assist to cleanse and revitalize your body, increasing energy and vigour from within.
Including healthy smoothies and juices in your daily routine is an excellent way to increase your energy, vitality, and overall well-being. These nutrient-dense blends supply a variety of essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and hydration, providing you with a natural and sustainable energy source. Experiment with different flavour combinations and combinations to find recipes that suit your taste preferences and demands. With these energising smoothie and juice recipes, toast to a vibrant and energetic lifestyle!
Cucumber Salad is a total classic! Cucumber, a low-calorie vegetable is known to have high-water content, hydrating our body from the inside while keeping us full…reports Asian Lite News
Weight loss can be a daunting task that demands constant attention to diet and lifestyle. However, it’s a misconception that weight loss always means sacrificing taste and indulging in unappetising dry salads. Contrary to popular belief, there are various delicious and exciting foods that can be healthy and tasty.
As India experiences the scorching summer, cold salads can be a refreshing and delightful addition to one’s diet. It’s an excellent option for those opting for a low-carb diet and aiming to maintain a healthy weight. To help you spice up your salad game, ShareChat creator Rashmi R Rai has come up with three no-fuss, refreshing and delicious recipes that will leave you craving more! Please note that Rashmi R Rai is a food creator and not a certified nutritionist or dietician.
Make your healthy summer journey a tasty one.(Photo:IANSLIFE)
Cucumber Salad
Cucumber Salad is a total classic! Cucumber, a low-calorie vegetable is known to have high-water content, hydrating our body from the inside while keeping us full! Load your refrigerators with tonnes of cucumbers this summer because you will definitely make this recipe again and again!
Ingredients:
Cucumber – 2 nos
Boiled black channa – 1 and 1/2 cup
Chopped Tomato – 1 nos
Chopped Onion – 1/2
Lemon juice – 1-2 tablespoons
Granted Paneer – 1/2 cup
Chopped Coriander – 1/2 cup
Mint paste – 1/2 cup
Black pepper – 1-2 tablespoons
Green chilli – chopped 2 teaspoons
Schezwan sauce – 4-6 tablespoons
Salt to taste
Method:
Peel the cucumber, and cut them into two lengthwise pieces, deseed them
Add the boiled black channa, tomato, onion, black pepper, green chilli, mint paste, Schezwan sauce and salt. Mix them all well together.
Add this mix to the deseeded cucumbers
Decorate this with grated paneer, chopped coriander and lemon juice
Serve it fresh and enjoy this healthy snack
Green Moong Salad
A chilled hearty bowl of moong salad is all you need to feel refreshed and energised. Extremely filling, easy to digest, low in calories and rich in protein, this scrumptious salad with moong dal can easily be eaten as a meal.
Ingredients:
Boiled green Moong dal – 1 cup
Chopped Cucumber – 1 cup
Tomato – 1
Pomegranate pearls – 1 cup
Walnut – 1/2 cup
Black pepper powder – 2-3 teaspoons
Olive oil – 3 tablespoon
Chopped Coriander – 1/2 cup
Lemon juice – 1-2 tablespoons
Salt to taste
Method:
Take a bowl and add all the ingredients and mix it well.
Refrigerate for 10 minutes if you like your salad cold and serve immediately
Make your healthy summer journey a tasty one.(Photo:IANSLIFE)
Macaroni Salad
The classic macaroni salad is a must-make every year, and we can’t imagine summer without it! This creamy bowl of goodness, made with elbow macaroni, sliced vegetables and yoghurt is a healthy and delicious alternative to your pasta craving.
Ingredients:
Boiled wheat or multigrain macaroni – 2 cups
Boiled white chana – 1 cup
Chopped tomato – 1 cup
Chopped or diced cucumber – 1 cup
Boiled sweet corn – 1/2 cup
Chopped cabbage – 1 cup
Chopped green chilli – 1-2
Black pepper powder – 1 teaspoon
Chopped onion – 1
Chinese chilli sauce – 1-2 tablespoons
Yoghurt – 1-2 tablespoons
Method:
Boil the chopped cabbage if you like it soft, or use it raw if you like the crunch
Chef Ranveer Brar's summer recipes.(photo:IANSLIFE)
As summer approaches, Chef Ranveer Brar shares some refreshing and delicious summer recipes, perfect to beat the summer heat and add a burst of flavour to your meals.
The range of summer recipes, include refreshing salads, and summer drinks. The recipes are easy to follow and use simple ingredients that are readily available in most households.
ALMOND MILKSHAKE
Ingredients:
. 12-15 Almonds, soaked overnight and skin removed
. 2 cups Soy milk/ Cow’s milk, Chilled
. 2 tbsps Sugar/ Honey
. 1/2 tsp Cardamom powder
Method:
. Add all the ingredients to a mixer jar and blend well.
. Remove in a serving glass and serve.
APPLE WALNUT ORANGE SALAD
Ingredients:
For Salad
. 1 Apple, cored & cubed
. 1/2 Cup Orange Segments
. 1/4 Cup Walnuts
. Few Mints Leaves
For Dressing
. 1/4 Cup Orange Juice
. 1 tsp Vinegar
. 2 tsp Olive Oil
. Salt, to taste
. 1 tsp Honey
Method:
. In a bowl take orange juice and vinegar. Add olive oil while whisking simultaneously.
. Now add salt, honey and mix well.
Add apple, orange and walnuts and give it a gentle toss. Arrange on a serving plate.
. Garnish with mint leaves and drizzle the dressing over it. Serve immediately.
Pistachios are a complete protein source with all 9 amino acids which aids in anti-aging, mental and physical health, promoting better skin and hair. This multifaceted plant- based superfood is a must have in one’s fitness journey. Pistachios can be explored with both sweet and savoury dishes.
American Pistachio’s legacy continues in the Indian and International market. These California grown pistachios are healthful and delicious with an intense green colour, and are one of the most versatile nuts in the market today, popular among all age groups. Chef Tarun Dacha curates a recipes using American pistachios:
INGREDIENTS
150 g California pistachios
5 g Cream
10 g Butter
1 Bay leaf
2 g Thyme
250 ml Veg stock
Salt to taste
For garlic crostini
5 g Garlic chop
1 Slice of French bread
METHOD
First soak the pistachios for one hour then take out from the water and peel it.
In a pan put butter, add sliced onion and cook over slow heat with thyme and bay leaf.
Add pistachios and cream and cook for a few minutes.
Add some vegetable stock, salt and pepper then cook for 10 minutes.
Blend all the ingredients.
Pour the soup in a soup plate or bowl
For garlic crostini
Apply the garlic butter on slice bread, and then toast it under the salamander. Serve the soup with the garlic bread and drop of olive oil
. Take turkey breast and flatten with mallet or rolling pin, seasoned with salt and pepper.
. In a bowl mix fresh breadcrumbs, sage, sausage, onion and seasoning.
. Place flattened turkey on cling film or aluminum foil, stuffed with sage mix roll tightly with covering all sides by scallops. Place roll in fridge for 40 to 60 minutes to hold its shape.
. For healthy cooking it can be steamed in steamer for 17 to 20 min.
. For baking, preheat oven at 180 degrees C, roast roulade on a bed of roughly cut vegetable for 17 to 20 minutes.
. For sauce: In a pan heat fat add cut vegetable toss with seasoning glazed with maple syrup. In another pan add fat and refined flour mix well for a while add white wine cook for 2 minutes then add stock and juice from cooking tray cook for 6 to 7 minutes sauce is ready.
. Serve succulent turkey roulade with fried potato wedges and maple glazed toss vegetable.
