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Nepal Imports 300,000 Indian Long-Stem Roses for Valentine’s Day”

Delhi, Bangalore, and Kolkata are the largest suppliers of red roses to Nepal…reports Asian Lite News

 As demand for red roses surge ahead of the Vakentine’s day, Nepal is importing over 3 lakh stems of long-stem roses from India.

Nepal Floriculture Association President Bahadur Tamag said: “The demands for red roses stand at 3,00,500. Only ten per cent of the total demands are met by local productions and we are forced to procure over 90 per cent roses from India to meet the demand during Valentine’s Day.”

Delhi, Bangalore, and Kolkata are the largest suppliers of red roses to Nepal, he added.

Only 23,000 rose stems will be fulfilled by the domestic market. A long stem rose costs Rs 80 to Rs 100. Out of the total demand, as much as 60 per cent will be consumed in Kathmandu and the rest will go outside Kathmandu.

With the pandemic almost over, there is excitement among the youths to celebrate Valentine’s Day just like before the Covid time.

“We failed to produce the roses to meet the domestic demands, said Tamang, adding that it is expected that rose trading around Valentine’s Day will surpass Rs 30.50 million.

India has been the regular market for Nepal for importing different kinds of floriculture products. Last year, only 100,800 stems of roses were sold out during Valentine’s Day but the number will grow significantly this year because of the no fear of any pandemic like Covid, said Tamang.

On average, Nepali traders sell out eight to 10,000 red roses during a normal day.

ALSO READ: Nepal Embassy in Oman organizes free Health Checkup camp

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Food Lite Blogs

Spice Up Valentine’s Day with Homemade Love

Feeling like something’s missing someone this Valentine’s Day? You’re not alone! While materialistic gifts are nice, they don’t always capture the true essence of love and affection. This year, why not try something special and focus on the little things that matter most?

On Valentine’s Day, wow your sweetheart with cooking skills and create lasting memories over a candlelit dinner. Try making these fast and yummy recipes by Chef Ranveer Brar for Hershey India. And no matter what you cook, remember to add a bit of love to your recipes!

Hershey’s Breakfast Parfait

Ingredients  

6 -8 chicken wings

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 -4 tablespoons peri peri seasoning

1 tablespoon Hershey’s caramel flavored syrup

½ teaspoon lemon juice

¼ teaspoon chicken seasoning

black pepper to taste

salt to taste

For Peri Peri seasoning

1 teaspoon oregano

1 tablespoon ginger powder

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1½ teaspoon paprika

½ teaspoon cayenne pepper

1 teaspoon cardamom powder

½ teaspoon salt

For Garnish Spring onion greens

Equipment Needed  

Oven

2 plates

1 mixing bowl

Process  

Add all of the peri-peri seasoning ingredients in a bowl and mix.

Place chicken wings in another bowl, and add the peri peri mix.

Pour olive oil, lemon juice, and HERSHEY’S caramel-flavoured syrup over the chicken.

Add the chicken seasoning and salt and pepper for taste.

Marinate the chicken wings in this mixture and keep it aside.

Marinate the chicken wings in this mixture and keep it aside.

Grill the wings in the oven for 20-25 minutes or till done.

Tip: Sprinkle some freshly cut spring onion over the wings as garnish.


Hershey’s Fantasy Pancakes


Ingredients  

1 cup milk

1 egg

2 tablespoons Hershey’s Caramel Flavoured SYRUP

1 tablespoon melted butter

1 cup Oats flour

2 teaspoons baking powder

1 Banana, sliced

Equipment Needed  

2 mixing bowls

Frying pan

Process  

In a bowl, add one egg, milk, melted butter, and Hershey’s caramel-flavoured syrup.

Whisk it together.

In another bowl, mix oat flour and baking powder.

Mix the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients.

Grease your pan lightly with butter and put on medium heat.

Drop a spoonful of batter onto the pan.

When bubbles begin to form on the surface, flip to the other side.

Once golden brown on both sides, take it off the pan.

Garnish with banana slices and drizzle Hershey’s caramel-flavoured syrup on the top.

Tip: Caramelize your banana slices and spread cream cheese over the pancakes for a sweet and sour kick!

ALSO READ-Mumbai’s Valentine’s Day Feasts

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Food Lite Blogs Recipes

Mumbai’s Valentine’s Day Feasts

Love is in the air, and Mumbai’s culinary scene is abuzz with delectable offerings for your Valentine’s Day celebration. Whether you’re a health-conscious couple seeking guilt-free indulgence, burger aficionados craving a juicy bite, or yearning for an extravagant and romantic experience, the city has something special in store for everyone. 

The Nines: A Culinary Symphony for Two

Unleash the magic of the number nine this Valentine’s Day at The Nines. This avant-garde haven in Juhu transcends dining, transforming it into an experience. Start with a vibrant Strawberry & Citrus Salad or Beetroot & Walnut Salad, then share Basil Pesto Arancini bursting with flavour, or indulge in the Beetroot Hummus with a Greek salad twist. Elevate your evening with King Mushroom & Truffle Flatbread or Chicken Ham & Pepperoni, before diving into Beetroot Risotto or the pan-seared Sea Bass with herb sauce. End on a sweet note with Strawberry Panna Cotta or Pistachio & Raspberry Petit Gateaux – each bite a delicious masterpiece. 

The Bluebop Cafe: A Love-Struck Soiree with Italian & American Flair

Immerse yourselves in a captivating world of flavours and connections at Bluebop Cafe this Valentine’s Day. Ignite your love story with handcrafted cocktails like Love Struck or Burning Love, then share playful bites like Sweet Potato Guacamole Bites or Peri Peri Chicken Popcorn. Savour the My Heart Pizzas – Love Garden for veggie lovers or Sicilian Chicken for a spicy kick. Dive into Creamy Penne Chicken in Alfredo Sauce or Marry Me Chicken, and don’t miss the Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon with its delightful accompaniments. End your love-struck soiree with decadent desserts like Strawberry Chocolate Tart or Blush Special Sundae – each spoonful a celebration of your love.

The Pantry – Goodness Delivered: For the Health-Conscious Duo

Embark on a wellness journey of flavours with The Pantry – Goodness Delivered. Their special Valentine’s Day menu features an earthy and sweet vegan beetroot & house-made coconut cream soup, bursting with the goodness of roasted beetroot, zesty ginger, and creamy coconut milk. End your meal on a guilt-free note with their no-bake strawberry layered cheesecake, a delightful combination of creamy, sweet, and tangy layers topped with fresh strawberries.

Woodside Inn: Burger Lovers Rejoice

Get ready to sink your teeth into love at Woodside Inn. This Valentine’s Day, they’re adding a vibrant touch to their classic burgers with beetroot buns, made using beet reduction for a beautiful colour and fluffy texture. Don’t miss their red chipotle rice flour and beet reduction chips, served as delectable accompaniments throughout the week of love.

Indulge in Culinary Luxury at Ditas

Treat your significant other to an unforgettable gastronomic experience at Ditas. Their special Valentine’s Day menu is an all-inclusive journey of exquisite flavours. Savour roasted garlic pimento soup or spicy tom yam goong, followed by refreshing salads like arugula & berries or poached pear & beetroot. Choose between delightful small plates like beetroot & avocado tartare or grilled prawn sambal satay, before diving into hearty mains like Thai aromatic red curry or chilli-crusted red snapper. End your romantic rendezvous on a sweet note with their decadent red velvet cheesecake and strawberry mousse. 

Koa: A Vibrant Fiesta of Love

Get ready for a lively and romantic evening at Koa. Their “Sea of Love” Valentine’s Day special features a soulful live saxophone performance to set the mood. Share delectable appetizers like tempura chickpea chaat or crispy thread chicken, indulge in heart-shaped pizzas, and relish refreshing salads like chips and avocado puree or peri chicken & sausages salad. For their main course, choose between charcoal-grilled chicken with Moroccan spices or the vegetarian delight of a filled mushroom pot with crispy fried mushrooms. Conclude your romantic feast with their signature “Under the Sea” Belgium chocolate mousse and a delightful Valentine’s chocolate box.

An Immersive Theatrical Extravaganza at Amazonia

For a truly unique and unforgettable Valentine’s Day experience, step into the Garden of Eden at Amazonia. This immersive theatrical experience takes you on a journey through Adam and Eve’s story, with captivating performances and a delicious set menu. As you indulge in culinary delights, be prepared to be transported to a world of wonder and intrigue.

Embark on a delicious journey of love at Bayroute

Skip the clichés this Valentine’s Day and whisk your love away to the enchanting flavours of the Mediterranean at Bayroute! Their new menu boasts irresistible dishes like melt-in-your-mouth Bakhtiari Kebabs and melt-off-the-bone Lamb Quzi, perfect for sharing amidst a romantic ambience. End with refreshing signature drinks and create unforgettable memories at Bayroute!

A Flavorscape of Love: Celebrate Valentine’s Day at Yazu


This Valentine’s Day, transcend the ordinary and embark on a romantic Asian escapade at Yazu. Let the rich tapestry of flavours transport you, as our chefs weave tradition with a modern flair. Imagine yourselves sharing delectable dishes crafted with authentic ingredients, where tender meats and vibrant veggies tango on your plate. Savour the magic of fresh produce sourced with the highest standards, ensuring an unparalleled culinary experience. At Yazu, every bite promises to be a love story waiting to be savoured, making your Valentine’s Day truly unforgettable.

The Coconut Boy’s Goan Valentine’s Getaway

The Coconut Boy whisks you away to Goa, its vibrant atmosphere, authentic flavours, and live music setting the stage for a romantic adventure. Their special Valentine’s menu is a love letter written in spices. Dive into the depths of flavour with the traditional Goan chonak fish curry, simmered in fragrant spices and coconut milk. Share playful bites of the intriguing grilled squid stuffed with crab, its ocean freshness bursting with conversation and laughter. Sip on vibrant Vitamin C and Goan Breeze cocktails, their tropical fruits and local spirits, light and refreshing like love itself. As live music serenades you throughout the evening, create memories that will last a lifetime at The Coconut Boy, where your love story unfolds on sand and sunshine. create unforgettable memories at The Coconut Boy.

The ROSE-tinted VALENTINE’s Fest at Neuma!

ROSE-tinted VALENTINE’s Fest at Neuma, where love isn’t just in the air—it’s a boomerang that multiplies back to you. From February 14th to 18th, we invite you to a week-long ode to love’s many facets. Each day unfolds a new chapter: romance, friendship, music, celebration, and inclusivity. We are excited to offer you the irresistible charm of romance with dishes that stir the heart and set the mood. Chef Hitesh brings the playful start of an Avocado and strawberry salad or the sensuous burst of decadent lobster bisque. Feeling adventurous? Let the fiery punch of Furikake sweet potato or the passionate embrace of sizzling grilled shrimp and enoki mushrooms drizzled in red curry aioli ignite the flames of your palate. Our large plates cater to every mood: the smooth and sensual experience of silky tofu and miso leeks or rotisserie chicken drizzled with sweet and savoury strawberry marmalade. End your night on a cloud of rose petit gateaux or succumb to the seduction of a red velvet cupid, all while sipping on love-themed cocktails like Lovebug, Flirty Fritz, Kiss on the Lips, Potion D’Amour, or the Soulmate Sour. Join us as we reimagine love with our ROSE-tinted VALENTINE’s Fest, where love knows no boundaries and every moment is a celebration of life’s greatest gift.

A Symphony of Flavours for Two at one8 Commune

Celebrate your love story with a global culinary adventure at one8 Commune this Valentine’s Day. Virat Kohli’s stylish eatery offers a diverse menu catering to every craving, from vegetarian delights to decadent seafood. Share playful small plates like the vibrant Cherry Tomatoes and Burrata Salad or the intriguing Hoisin braised Tofu. Move on to impressive main courses like the heart-shaped ravioli or the flavorful Strawberry Chili Risotto. End your evening on a sweet note with the signature Love Struck dessert, a symphony of chocolate and mascarpone, or the refreshing Strawberry Entremet. one8 Commune’s ambiance and attentive service provide the perfect setting for a romantic night filled with delicious discoveries. 

Masala Library: A Sophisticated Sweet Treat

Masala Library takes a more refined approach to Valentine’s Day with its specially crafted dessert. Dive into their “Coconut Tres Leches Soaked in Goatcheese Milk,” a luscious combination of textures and flavours. The creamy tres leches, infused with goat cheese milk, provide a unique savoury edge, perfectly balanced by the sweet and tart notes of the passionfruit parfait, raspberry sorbet, and salted caramel. Finally, a dusting of strawberry snow adds a touch of whimsy and completes this luxurious and unforgettable dessert experience. For couples seeking a sophisticated and unique indulgence, Masala Library’s Valentine’s Day offering is sure to impress.

Millo: For the Whimsical Romantics

Love is most definitely in the air at Millo this Valentine’s Day, thanks to their playful and unique cocktail menu. Indulge in the “Love is in the Air,” made with Gin, Maraschino Citrus, Plum and Raspberry for a whimsical burst of flavour, or share the “Love Potion” made with rose-infused vodka and citrus tonic for a refreshing twist. Feeling adventurous? The “Exotic Coco Punch” with Baileys, vodka, and coconut promises a tropical escape, while the “First Kiss” with bourbon, condensed milk, and strawberry offers a comforting sweetness. Whether you’re looking for something light and bubbly or rich and decadent, Millo has a love potion for every heart.

So, what are you waiting for? Mumbai’s restaurants are offering a delectable array of Valentine’s Day specials, catering to every taste and budget. Choose your culinary adventure, make your reservation, and get ready to celebrate love in the most delicious way possible!

ALSO READ-Recipe : Strawberry Cream Dessert

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Food Lite Blogs

Indulge in Love’s Culinary Symphony at Ode

No Valentine’s Day meal can be complete without Dessert and this menu does not disappoint. Guests can enjoy Single-Origin Madagascar Chocolate Souffle; Berry Pavlova; and eggless options such as Mille Feuille; and Double Chocolate & Hazelnut Tartlet…reports Asian Lite News

Ignite your passions and create memories that last a lifetime at a premier destination for a fine extravagant lunch and dining experience.

Ode – a culinary love letter to the city

A collaboration between the Aditya Birla Group with Chef Rahul Akerkar at its helm, the restaurant is offering An Ode to Love, a special one-day-only Valentine’s Day menu, served on Wednesday, February 14, 2024, for both lunch and dinner. The regular menu will not be available on this day.

Enjoy an all-new menu for both lunch and dinner, featuring dishes like Parsnip Casoncelli, charred parsnips, pumpkin seed kut, mint, and fermented apple butter; Pepper Crusted Beetroot Pave, garlic soubise, charred fennel, apricot chutney; and Palm Heart & Pears, blue cheese crema, hazelnut chili chikki and cress from the Vegetable section; and Handmade Pici, mussels, braised turnip, turnip top, confit garlic, chili butter, lemon breadcrumbs; Butter Poached Lobster, red pepper rouille, snow peas coconut salad, tempered curry leaves; and Duck Breast Carpaccio, cured egg yolk, berry murabba, salt & vinegar chips, from the Meat, Poultry & Seafood section. A selection of Sides offers picks like Long Beans, white balsamic dressing, toasted onion seeds; Bitter Greens, sesame ‘Caesar’; candied cashew; and the indulgent Potatoes Dauphinoise.

No Valentine’s Day meal can be complete without Dessert and this menu does not disappoint. Guests can enjoy Single-Origin Madagascar Chocolate Souffle; Berry Pavlova; and eggless options such as Mille Feuille; and Double Chocolate & Hazelnut Tartlet.

•             Reservations are available on pre-booking only, with an advance charge of Rs. 1000 per head.

•             Ode, Raheja Altimus, Gate no. 4, Worli, P.B. Marg, Mumbai, (Opposite the Doordarshan TV Tower)

•             Hours of Operation: Lunch: 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm; Dinner: 7:00 pm – 1:00 am; Monday-Sunday

•             Telephone Number for Reservations: +91 9076031111

Celebrate love with Sriracha’s Exquisite Valentine’s menu

Bengaluru’s fiery culinary gem, Sriracha, built to bring to you the stories of the different countries in Asia across it’s plates, turns up the heat this Valentine’s Day with a specially curated menu by Chef Vikas Seth guaranteed to ignite taste buds and set hearts ablaze. Ditch the predictable roses and chocolates, and take your loved one on a fiery adventure of exotic flavors with a touch of the iconic, garlicky red sauce.

Embrace playful intimacy with Sriracha’s selection of steamy Baozi. Dive into Krapow Chicken Baozi, where the Thai basil chicken is nestled within soft buns, perfectly complemented by the cool touch of Sriracha aioli and chili oil. For a softer heat, indulge in Shitake & Cream Cheese Baozi – a comforting medley of earthy mushrooms and creamy cheese, a testament to Sriracha’s masterful balance of flavors.

Let love flow like the Wok Charred Udon Noodles with Shrimp and Red Bell Peppers. The udon noodles are coated in a spicy umami sauce, punctuated by the succulent sweetness of shrimp and the vibrant crunch of red bell peppers. It’s a dance of sweet and spicy, a metaphor for the perfect Valentine’s Day.

For a vegetarian option equally bursting with love, choose the Seasonal Vegetable Teriyaki Udon Noodles. Tender seasonal vegetables soak up the sweet and sticky embrace of teriyaki sauce, creating a harmonious melody of flavors that will leave you wanting more.

No love story is complete without a decadent finale. The Sinful Melting Chocolate is a masterpiece designed to steal hearts. Imagine fresh strawberries nestled on a bed of chocolate cake, embraced by creamy vanilla ice cream & elegantly presented in a glass topped with half chocolate dome. This symphony of textures and flavors takes a dramatic turn when the servers pour a luscious hot berry, melting it into a gooey pool of pure delight. It’s a theatrical experience perfect for celebrating your love in style.

This Valentine’s Day also ignite your love story with Sriracha’s fiery passion, poured into every exquisite sip of their four must-try cocktails curated by mixologist Harry Simon Peter. Chocolate Martini: Dive into pure decadence with this velvety embrace of creamy half & half and rich chocolate cordial, a timeless classic for whispered sweet nothings.Love Potion No. 6: Unleash the magic of attraction with this forbidden concoction of spiced rum, tangy lime, and playful apple chunks.Lady in Red: Own the night with this captivating blend of gin, blushing raspberry, a touch of lime, and airy egg white foam.French Rose 75: Raise a toast to enduring love with this bubbly symphony of gin, delicate lime, and sparkling rosé. Light, effervescent, and undeniably romantic, it’s the perfect clink to cherished moments.

This Valentine’s Day, skip the conventional and embrace the heat. Let Sriracha be your cupid, drawing you closer with its fiery flavors and playful creativity.

•             Address: Level 2, 4th Floor, UB City, No. 204, Vittal Mallya Rd, opposite J.W Marriott, KG Halli, D’ Souza Layout, Ashok Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001

•             Phone: 096060 54210

Courtyard by Marriott Outer Ring Road presents a weeklong celebration of romance and gastronomic delights

Embark on a delightful week of love and culinary excellence at Courtyard by Marriott Outer Ring Road. As Valentine’s Day approaches, immerse yourself in an enchanting blend of romance and indulgence, promising an unforgettable experience where the magic of love seamlessly intertwines with brilliance.

Experience a romantic escapade beneath the glittering stars at BG’s Poolside Bar & Grill. Savor exquisite cuisine and refreshing concoctions, creating memories that linger. Indulge in specially crafted drinks, including the tantalizing “Old Fashioned Love,” the elevated “Pick Me Up,” the perfectly balanced “Between the Sheets,” the raspberry-infused “Potion d’Amour,” and the delightful “It’s a Match.”

•             When: 14th February

•             Price: Rs. 10,000 ++ onwards (For couples)

•             Time: 7 PM – 1 AM

Momo Lounge is excited to unveil a week-long celebration of love, laughter, and exquisite drinks this Valentine’s week. Join them for an enchanting experience during the Happy Hours, promising lasting memories, whether you’re accompanied by your significant other, or friends, or reveling in the joy of a solo celebration.

•             When:  7th to 14th February.

•             Time: 11 AM – 10 PM (Exclusive for Couples)

ALSO READ-Ignite Your Taste Buds with a Mexican Romance

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Romance in Bloom: Boutique Bliss in Ceylon’s Tea Residences

Embark on tailor-made excursions and capture the beauty of Bhutan’s natural wonders, from scenic hikes to whitewater rafting with magnificent views of the Punakha Valley…reports Asian Lite News

Enjoy the wonderful views of nature, savour the delectable food, and witness the surreal offerings of the world with your partner this Valentine’s Day. 

As we celebrate the beauty and warmth of love this month, check out some magnificent experiences one can opt for at these hotels and resorts with distinct offerings across India, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and London. Perfect for a quick, romantic getaway!

Pemako Punakha, Bhutan

Pemako Punakha promises to showcase the country’s vibrant culture through – distinctively designed spaces, delectable cuisines, warm hospitality, and perceptive experiences – seamlessly weaved together for an invigorating and romantic holiday. An epitome of perceptive luxury hospitality, the brand showcases the finest highlights of a place from culture to cuisine, design to service offering a unique way of sharing moments of love.

Some key offerings at the hotel for couples:

Immerse in the tranquillity of Bhutan with evenings spent in the hotel’s serene surroundings. Enjoy a sundowner with handcrafted cocktails at the riverside or a private barbeque at the picnic deck ATI under the starlit sky, savouring delectable local and international cuisines.

Unwind at Pemako Punakha’s over-the-top wellness facilities, surrounded by the pristine beauty of nature. Indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments for couples, drawing on traditional Bhutanese therapies and modern techniques. 

Embark on tailor-made excursions and capture the beauty of Bhutan’s natural wonders, from scenic hikes to whitewater rafting with magnificent views of the Punakha Valley

The Kumaon, Uttarakhand

Situated amidst the enchanting views of Himalayan ranges, The Kumaon is a perfect dreamy escape for couples looking to spend quality time in the serenity of mountains. With the magnificent combination of personalised luxury, rich biodiversity, and warm hospitality, the retreat vows for a memorable romantic hideaway, away from the hustle and bustle of city life. 

Some key offerings at the boutique hotel for couples:

A stargazing session to closely witness the planets, and moons,breathtaking views of the cosmos, and spot shooting stars in a clear night sky! Truly magical 

A surreal walk through the nearby Gadholi village to catch the sunset with Juno and Elsa (the most charming pair of resident dogs at The Kumaon) and a special high tea setup with undulating views of the mountains at the end.  

A romantic dinner setup across some exquisite spots across the property – a romantic candlelight setup under the stars, a cosy dinner in the library, or at the gourmet restaurant that sits in a cantilevered structure of floor-to-ceiling glass with undisturbed views of the Himalayas.

Anopura, Rajasthan


In the heart of Rajasthan’s breathtaking landscapes lies Anopura, the sanctuary of wellness and tranquillity that seamlessly blends traditional practices with contemporary luxury. Tucked away from the chaos of everyday life, this haven invites guests to reconnect with their inner selves amid the natural beauty of the countryside. Website

Some key offerings at the boutique hotel for couples:

Explore the picturesque countryside, where lush farms and rolling hills contribute to the serene ambience, allowing the echoes of historic tales to guide you through the mystery hills that shroud its past, unravelling the secrets of a bygone era.

At the Anopura Pottery Studio, delve into the age-old practice of pottery making. Under the guidance of skilled artisans, learn traditional art and indulge in the joy of working with clay, shaping it into unique creations that reflect your creativity.

Embark on a gastronomical journey with private evening dinners, set against the enchanting backdrop of Anopura’s expansive organic farms. From authentic flavours of the thali to local cuisine that invigorate the palate, each of the private dining venues creates a magical ambience for couples.

Hotel Café Royal, London


Located in the heart of London, with Mayfair to the west and Soho to the East, the hotel is perfectly positioned within walking distance of London’s finest shopping streets, tourist attractions, and theatreland. Within the hotel, grand historic areas have been sensitively restored while 159 guest rooms and suites (including seven signature suites) have been created in a contemporary yet refined style. Continuing its celebrated legacy of excellent hospitality and dining, the hotel offers a selection of restaurants and bars, and its holistic wellbeing concept, Akasha.

Some key offerings at the boutique hotel for couples: 

Celebrate Valentine’s at Hotel Café Royal with A Romantic Rendezvous in the heart of London. Couples can immerse in an evening of whispered promises, shared laughter, and a warm candlelit ambience.

Indulge in the romantic ambience of Barbounia’s Valentine’s Dinner, featuring a special 8-course tasting menu.

For a more indulgent experience, try ‘The Heart’—a heart-shaped raspberry meringue filled with tonka bean ice cream, raspberry, and pink peppercorn compote, and topped with a delightful raspberry foam. These exclusive treats are a perfect way to sweeten your V-Day celebration. 

Ceylon Tea Trails, Sri Lanka

Stay amidst the beautiful landscapes of the Ceylon tea region at 4,000 ft – The 5 boutique residences known as bungalows have a history of their own. They have restored tea planter residences complete with world-class furnishings, a butler service, and gourmet cuisine offerings. Perfect to make one feel like a home away from home.

Some key offerings at the boutique hotel for couples: 

Take a walk to remember through a tea plantation, and witness the process of tea making on the Dunkeld tea factory tour in the company of the in-house guides and naturalists.

Enjoy a fun-filled morning kayaking on Castlereagh Lake. An ode to complete relaxation and rejuvenation!

Valentine’s Day is annually celebrated on February 14.

ALSO READ-Ideal cooking plans for Valentine’s Day evening

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Food Lite Blogs Recipes

Yummy desserts for Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and while there are lots of things you can plan on doing for your special someone on the occasion, making something for them from scratch would be really sweet and romantic. We have compiled a list of really yummy desserts that you can bake for your Valentine this year. Take a look:

Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Compote

Recipe by: Sous Chef Sasha Wadhwa – Pastry & Bakery, Couche Patisserie
PREP TIME: 40 MINS
Cooking: 2-3 hours
SERVINGS- 3
CALORIES 298
FATS 20
Ingredients for Vanilla Sponge Cake (6-inch pan):
100 gms Maida
1/2 tsp Baking Powder
140 gms Thick Curd
1/2 tsp Baking Soda
80 gms Caster Sugar
50 gms oil
1/2 tsp Vanilla Extract
Baking Time – 25-30 minutes
Baking Temperature – 150°C
Method:
1. Preheat oven to 150°C
2. Mix the baking soda and curd well and set aside.
3. Whisk oil and caster sugar until well combined.
4. Add in vanilla and curd + baking soda mixture and whisk until it comes together.
5. Sift in the maida and baking powder and fold gently with a spatula until the batter looks well combined and no flour pockets are visible.Vanilla Cake with Strawberry Compote

6. Pour into a greased pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a skewer inserted to check doneness comes out clean.
Ingredients for Strawberry Compote:
80 gms diced Strawberries (1)
160 gms chopped Strawberries (2)
3 tbsp/45 gmsCaster Sugar
1/4 Lemon
1/2 tsp Vanilla Extract (optional)
Method:
1. Add 80 gms of diced strawberries to a pan with the caster sugar. On a Valentine’s Day Recipe: 3 desserts you can make for your special someone!
2. When the mixture has thickened up (about 10-15 minutes), switch off the flame and set aside. Let it cool.

3. Add the chopped strawberries to the cooked strawberry compote, along with the lemon juice and vanilla, and mix to combine. Refrigerate until required.
Slice the vanilla sponge cake and serve with a side of strawberry compote and whipped cream.
Serving suggestion – You can also make a layered cake by slicing the cake in half horizontally and layering it with strawberry compote and whipped cream. Cover the sides and top with whipped cream and garnish with fresh strawberries.


Blueberry & Blue Matcha Cup Cake

Recipe by: Group Pastry Chef Balwinder Singh – Centre Point Hotel, Nagpur

PREP: 40 MINS
Cooking: 1 hour
SERVINGS- 4
CALORIES 100
FATS 10
Ingredients
Cup Cake Batter:

50gm Butter
50gm Castor sugar
1no Egg
50gm Flour
0.02gm Baking Powder
0.05gm Blue Tea Matcha Powder
0.1gm Blueberry Filling
For topping:
20gm Whip cream
2gm Blue Tea Matcha Powder
5gm Milk Maid
2no Fresh Blueberries
Sugar Sprinklers for Garnish
Method:
1. Weight all the above ingredients and cream butter and castor sugar, whisk them together.
2. Now add eggs and mix them well till all lumps smoothen properly.

3. Now add all dry ingredients and blueberry filling and mix till all ingredients may make a smooth Batter.
4. Reheat oven to 180 degrees C and bake the mixture by pouring in cupcake molds for about 12-15 min.
5. For topping take whip cream add milk maid and blue matcha powder and make smooth blue cream.
6. Now cool the cupcake for an hour. Now put the prepared topping cream in a piping bag and pipe the cream with a star nozzle on top of the cupcake as you desire. Now garnish with blueberries and sugar sprinklers.

Classic vanilla and strawberry cake

Recipe by: Chef Akash Khandelwal, Sous Chef – Pastry & Bakery, Welcomhotel Sheraton New Delhi
PREP: 60 MINS
Cooking: 2-3 hours
SERVINGS- 3
CALORIES 355
FATS 32
CHOLESTEROL-0.283
Sponge cake:
3 eggs with vanilla essence
90g sugar
90g flour
30g unsalted butter, melted
For the syrup:
200ML cane sugar syrup (50gm sugar and 150ml hot water)
For the strawberry mousse:
3 gelatin sheets
370ml whipping cream (up to 40 per cent fat)
250g strawberries
50g sugar
For the garnish:
250g fresh strawberries
Method
Sponge cake:
Whisk eggs with sugar until light & fluffy, slowly fold in the flour. Add the melted butter at the last and bake at 180c for 15 mins in a heart-shaped tin.
Strawberry mousse:
Soak the gelatin in ice-cold water. Take the strawberries in a pan and sugar. Cook slowly and create a preserve-like structure. Add the soaked gelatin to the compote. Whip the cream until soft and fluffy. Fold the cream in the compote. Creating a strawberry mousse. Chill in a refrigerator.
Assembling:
Take a heart shape ring and arrange strawberries on the corners. Take the sponge and apply sugar syrup using a brush. Pipe the strawberry mousse using a star nozzle and put 1/2 strawberries in an arrangement. Creating an aesthetic look. (ANI)

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Categories
Food Lite Blogs Recipes

Valentine’s day recipes filled with love

A way to anyone’s heart, is through their stomach. well, we’d like to believe that! Why not whip up a storm together in the kitchen, as you and your partner try your hands out on these recipes’ curtesy Himanshu Taneja, Culinary Director, South Asia, Marriott International.

Hazelnut and Coffee Cream Tart

Ingredients:

Chocolate sable:

. Butter (360gm)

. Flour (680gm)

. Cocoa Powder (40gm)

. Icing Sugar (280gm)

. Salt (5gm)

. Almond Powder (100gm)

. Egg (150gm)

Baked chocolate mix:

. Amul cream (480gm)

. Milk (200gm)

. Dark chocolate (480gm)

. Egg (100gm)

. Butter (5gm)

. Hazelnut Paste (100gm)

. Espresso (30gm)

Method:

. For the chocolate sable, cream butter and sugar and add eggs to it.

. Add all the dry ingredients and mix. Rest them for six hours after lining the tart mould with a 2 mm thickness.

. Half-bake the tart for 12 minutes at 180 degrees. Take out and allow to cool.

. For the baked mix, heat up milk and cream and add chocolate, hazelnut, and espresso. Add the eggs at the end.

. Pour the mix into a tart shell. Bake in the oven at 100 degrees for 15 minutes.

Fromage Blanc and Framboise parfait on Brown Butter Cake

Ingredients:

Yoghurt Mousse:

. Elle and vire cream (300gm)

. Yoghurt (240ml)

. Caster Sugar (75 nos)

. Vanilla bean (5gm)

. Gelatin (10gm)

Pistachio Cake:

. Pistachio Paste (90gm)

. Butter unsalted browned (70gm)

. Caster sugar (100gm)

. Egg Yolk (35gm)

. Refine flour (150gm)

. Sea salt (2gm)

. Pistachio powder (130gm)

Raspberry cream:

. Raspberry puree (250gm)

. Icing Sugar (60gm)

. Gelatin sheets (10gm)

. E&V cream (250gm)

Method:

. For pistachio brown butter cake, mix all the dry ingredients and keep them aside. Take the butter, heat it in a pan and make it golden brown. Meanwhile, whisk the egg yolk and add all the dry ingredients. Last, add the brown butter and bake in a tray for 10 min. Take it out of the oven and keep it in the refrigerator.

. For the yoghurt mousse, soak the gelatin in cold water. Mix yoghurt and sugar, add cream and add gelatin, and set in the freezer.

. For raspberry cream, boil puree, add icing sugar, and add gelatin. Fold in whipped cream and pipe inside the yoghurt mousse and freeze.

. Place it in the deep freezer for a day, then serve it on top of the pistachio cake the next day.

Balsamic Braised Strawberry Cheesecake with Greek feta

Ingredients:

Cheese mix:

. Philadelphia Cheese (400gm)

. Eggs (250gm)

. Sugar (100gm)

. Corn flour (15gm)

Sable base:

. Flour (250gm)

. Sugar (250gm)

. Butter (400gm)

. Egg White (40gm)

For Garnish:

. Balsamic (50gm)

. Fresh strawberry (200gm)

. Blueberry (50gm)

Method:

. For the sable base, cream the butter and sugar together and add the egg white gradually. Last, fold in the flour.

. Take one cake ring and wrap it with foil. Place it on an aluminised tray.

. Spread the sable mixture evenly at a thickness of about 2 cm. Bake it for 10 minutes at 180 degrees and remove it from the heat.

. For the cheesecake mix, put cream cheese and sugar in a stand mixer and mix at slow speed. Add eggs and lastly, cornflour. Put the cheese mix on a stable base and bake in a double boiler for 40 minutes at 140 degrees. When finished, remove from the heat. Keep it chilled for one day.

. The next day, take out the cake from the ring.

. Garnish with a fresh strawberry if desired.

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Categories
Films Lite Blogs

What to watch on this Valentine’s Day online?

The film is directed by Park Hyun-jin and starring Lee Jun-young, Seohyun and Seo Hyun-woo, and is a must watch to understand the depth of emotions through ups and downs relationships…reports Asian Lite News

If you seek to make your Valentine’s Day special and are celebrating indoors, a movie night would be just perfect to bring in the mushiness.

While you prepare for the scrumptious meals and enticing beverages, OTT platforms and television have got your binge-list sorted. Here’s the list of movies that can be watched on Valentine’s Day.

Gehraiyaan

‘Gehraiyaan’ is a kind of romantic movie in which the director Shakun Batra brings out the complex world of relationship dramas. Featuring Deepika Padukone, Ananya Panday, Siddhant Chaturvedi and Dhairya Karwa, ‘Gehraiyaan’ is about a woman finding herself at a crossroads in life. Her six-year relationship has grown monotonous, and her career seems to have hit a roadblock. However things change in her life with the coming of her cousin that forces her to face the troubled past.

‘Gehraiyaan’ is streaming on Amazon Prime Video

Hot Mess Holiday

Bringing in the leading cast of two Indian origin women, Melanie Chandra and Surina Jindal in American cinema, ‘Hot Mess Holiday’ showcases the tale of a girl who gets dumped by her cheating boyfriend during the festival of Diwali, her best friend comes to the rescue and takes her on a girls trip to Chicago where all hell breaks loose in a comic turn of events.

The movie also has appearances by some other Indian actors including Kal Penn and Lilly Singh. The movie airs on February 14 at 1pm and 10pm on Comedy Central India.

Love and Leashes


‘Love and Leashes’ is a South Korean rom-com film that follows two co-workers who enter a purely contractual relationship but soon realize everything is not going according to plan.

The film is directed by Park Hyun-jin and starring Lee Jun-young, Seohyun and Seo Hyun-woo, and is a must watch to understand the depth of emotions through ups and downs relationships.

The movie was released on Netflix on February 11.

MaNan– Kaisi Hai Yaariyaan

This is a special movie based on the three seasons of the series ‘Kaisi Hai Yaariyaan’. The main leads of the series Parth Samthaan and Niti Taylor playing the character of Manik and Nandini, is coming back in the movie. It is a slice-of-life piece that illustrates the bitter-sweet relationship between the couple, evokes nostalgia and gives a major flashback of unforgettable college memories.

The special edit-based film will be streaming from February 18 on Voot.

I Want You Back

Directed by Jason Orley, ‘I Want You Back’ is a American rom-com movie starring Jenny Slate and Charlie Day in the lead roles. It is the story of newly dumped thirty-somethings Peter and Emma who team up to sabotage their exes’ new relationships and win them back for good. It also stars Scott Eastwood, Gina Rodriguez, Manny Jacinto, and Clark Backo in vital roles.

The movie is released on February 11 on Amazon Prime Video.

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