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9 HEALTHY RICE CAKE TOPPING IDEAS

9 healthy and tasty rice cake toppings to satisfy both your sweet and savoury cravings. All these toppings are super easy and are quick to make.

Since the time I have started putting extra emphasis on eating healthy, I am on a constant lookout for new food to try in the kitchen. Making something that is wholesome and also sparks the interest of children is really challenging (all the moms reading this will know). So, the other day while going through the struggle of finding a nutritious snack to munch on, I decided to give the normal rice cake a little twist. I tried 9 different healthy rice cake toppings, both sweet & salty and they turned out so delicious that I had to share the recipe with you.

Here are 9 yummy rice cake topping for your every mood.

Nutella & Banana Rice Cake

Nutella is already everyone’s favorite and when you pair it with bananas you get a super tasty yet healthy combination like this. Spread nutella on the rice cake, top it with banana slices and you are done.

Strawberry Jam & Blueberries Rice cake

Strawberry jam and blueberry rice cake topping

Yummy strawberry jam topped with blueberries, this rice cake has to be kid’s favorite. You can use any jam or berries of your choice to give it a twist.

Almond Butter & Apple Rice Cake

Almond butter and apple rice cake topping

When the goodness of almond butter and apples come together, you get at mouth-watering rice cake topping. You can substitute the almond butter for peanut butter and the results will be just as good.

Raspberry, Nuts & Raisin Rice Cake

Raspberry nuts and raisins rice cake topping

Making a healthy and tasty snack doesn’t get easier than this. Just cut some raspberry and sprinkle some nuts & raisins and enjoy.

Avocado and Tomato Rice Cake

This one is a great substitute for your regular avocado toast. Smash the avocado, add lime juice & salt to it and spread it on the rice cake. Top it with cherry tomatoes, sprinkle some black pepper and voila.

Feta Cheese & Cucumber Rice Cake

Feta cheese and cucumber rice cake topping

The freshness of cucumber, combined with goodness of feta cheese gives us this delish rice cake. Put the feta cheese and cucumber on the rice cake, season with some salt and pepper and get munching.

Cheddar Cheese & Tomatoes Rice Cake

Cheddar cheese and tomato rice cake topping

Cheddar cheese and tomatoes make for such a finger-licking combination. Spread some grated cheddar cheese on the rice cake, top it with cherry tomatoes, add salt & pepper for seasoning and relish this delicious rice cake.

Pesto & Feta Cheese Rice Cake

Have some left over pesto sauce at home? Put it to good use by creating this flavorful rice cake topping. Spread the pesto sauce on the rice cake, add some feta cheese on top and there you have it pesto and feta cheese rice cake.

Cheese Spread and Cucumber Rice Cake

Cheese spread and cucumber rice cake topping

This one is my son’s favorite, because it has cheese spread of course. Put a layer of cheese spread on the rice cake, top it with cucumber slices, add some salt if you want and satisfy your taste buds with this tasty combinations.

Some other rice cake toppings you can try :

Hummus & Cucumber Rice Cake
Nutella & Pumpkin Seeds Rice Cake
Yogurt & Almond Rice Cake
Salsa & Scrambled Eggs Rice Cake
Avocado & Boiled Eggs Rice Cake

These are some of the topping that I tried, you can of course experiment with the things you like and give it your own twist. Hope you liked my ideas and will try them yourself, do let me know if you do. Till then check out more healthy recipes here.

Chocolate Cornflake Cupcake Recipe – No Bake Recipe for Kids

It’s lockdown time and my biggest challenge perhaps (besides coping with my WFH routine) is managing my 6-year old. A bundle of energy he is and needs something that keeps him occupied in body and mind. After alternating between craft, gardening and video games, I decided to try something I’ve always wanted to do in his company. Cooking, indeed!!

Though my idea may seem a little too ambitious with a child so young, I had this amazing recipe in mind which I knew he would love mixing up during his first adventure in the kitchen. So here we were, both donning chef’s aprons and caps, all set to whisk heavenly choco-cornflake muffins. And I’d surely want to share the recipe of these super-delicious and super-nutritious muffins with all the mommies out there.

Print Recipe

Chocolate Cornflake Cupcake Recipe

This recipe is super-easy and incredibly quick, making it just perfect for young children. So go ahead and mix up these yummy muffins in just a few minutes!

Prep Time5

Cook Time5

Cooling Time15

Total Time25

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Keyword: chocolate cupcakes, cooking with kids, cupcakes, no bake desert

Servings: 6

Calories: 75kcal

Cost: £4

Equipment

Pan
Mixing Bowl
Muffin Tray and Cases

Ingredients

25 gms Butter Preferred Unsalted
50 gms Dark Chocolate or Milk Chocolate broken into chunks
150 gms Conflakes
2 tbsp Golden Syrup need less if its milk chocolate

Instructions

Weigh the ingredients. I did it myself, with mylittle one helping to pour ingredients into the weighing scales. You can let older children do this by themselves though.
Put the cornflakes in a large bowl.Get it done by your junior chef because he or she will probably be able tohandle it on your own.
Put butter, chocolate, and golden syrup ina saucepan. A microwavable bowl is an alternative if you plan to cook it in themicrowave. Melt the ingredients over a low heat (or heat briefly in themicrowave).
Allow the mix to cool a little and pour overthe cornflakes.
Top them with chocolate eggs to make theminteresting, though you can play with your imagination by topping them withgems, jellos or even chopped fresh kiwis and strawberries

Notes

And your chocolate cornflake cupcakes are ready to serve.

The recipe is super-easy and incredibly quick, just perfect for young children who are first-timers in the kitchen. And you can let the older ones make them independently. One piece of advice I have for parents cooking with little ones is to be careful with the hob. The best thing about the recipe is that each of the ingredients has nutritional value, which means that you won’t end up feeling guilty about serving an unhealthy snack to your kids. All the ingredients are easily available at home, so lockdown is not the reason to worry. The calorie count is low, so you can relish one without worrying about the scales.

So go ahead and mix up these yummy muffins in just a few minutes!

Immunity-Boosting – Green Smoothie Recipe

My favourite that I’d want to share with health buffs is the super-healthy, awesome Green Smoothie recipe that I mixed up by chance. But believe me, it is my choice now as I shake it up every other day. Vegan and made with lots of healthy ingredients, this amazing shake is just right for breakfast and keeps my energy levels up all day long.

Now that I’m pretty well settled in the lockdown routine and know that it’s going to be a long time ahead, I’ve decided to unlock my culinary talent. And the last thing I want to indulge in is the unhealthy goodies that sound so tempting. Rather my agenda for this period is to eat healthy and feel energetic, that too while relishing the recipes I create. And the fact that I have two fussy eaters at home makes the challenge even bigger. Still, I love cooking for the family and discovering recipes that are delicious and healthy at the same time.

Jump to Recipe

The best thing about my Green Smoothie is that it has ingredients that are all easily available at home. And if you don’t have one of them, you can find an easy alternative in your refrigerator or kitchen cabinet. So here is a list of the ingredients I use to shake up a jugful for my family.

Print Recipe

Immunity-Boosting Green Smoothie

My favourite that I’d want to sharewith health buffs is the super-healthy, awesome Green Smoothie recipe that Imixed up by chance. But believe me, it is my choice now as I shake it up everyother day. Vegan and made with lots of healthy ingredients, this amazing shake isjust right for breakfast and keeps my energy levels up to match the challengesof work from home, even while I juggle with loads of housework and an energetic6-year old!

Prep Time5

Cook Time1

Total Time6

Course: Breakfast, Drinks

Keyword: green smoothie, healthy, immunity boosting, smoothie

Servings: 1 person

Calories: 220kcal

Author: Archana

Cost: £2 – £3

Equipment

Blender

Ingredients

1 Cup Chopped Kale
1 Cup Spinach Leaves
1 inch cube Ginger
1 tablespoon Flax Seeds
7 pieces Almonds
1 tbsp Honey
1/2 Banana
125 ml Coconut Milk

Instructions

Once you have all the ingredients onyour shelf, it’s time to get started. Here is a list of instructions to createthe most yummilicious, gorgeous-looking Green Smoothie in just three steps anda couple of minutes.
Put all the ingredients in a blenderand blend them till smooth; make sure that there are no chunks of the leafygreens or fruits.
Once you mix up the perfect smoothie, taste it and perfect it. Ensurethat it has just the right consistency and temperature. If you want your kid totry it, I’d suggest adding some honey for the healthy sweet kick. You can evenadd a dash of lemon to balance the bitterness of the greens. My secretingredient is ginger because I love the zing it brings to the drink. Even mylittle one loves it!
After perfecting the flavours, justgive it a final whisk in the blender to get that amazing smooth consistency andvibrant green colour. You can refrigerate the drink for up to 24 hours, thoughI prefer blending a fresh batch every time. If you do want to use arefrigerated batch, be sure to shake it up before drinking.

Video

Notes

I’m sure you’d love this recipe as it is just the pick-me-up you need when you feel the blues of the lockdown effect. You can try a few variations every time as I do. For instance, you can use pineapple or mango in place of banana. Toss in nuts and seeds of your choice. Or just experiment with any juice, water or any other milk. I like honey and ginger, though they are optional too.

And I’d surely want to list down the nutritional benefits of each of the ingredients so that you appreciate my smoothie’s health value as much as its taste.

Kale–High in antioxidants and vitamin C, detoxifies naturally, lowers cholesterol levels
Spinach- Loaded with folic acid, carotenoids, vitamin C, vitamin K, iron, and calcium, cleanses your skin inside out
Ginger–Improves digestion, protects from cold and flu, reduces inflammation naturally
Flax seeds – Rich in fiber, omega-3 fats and high quality proteins, give instant energy boost
Almonds-Contain fiber, healthy fats, protein, magnesium and vitamin E, reduce hunger and promote weight control
Honey – Healthiest alternative to sugar, rich in antioxidants
Banana-Nutritious, filling and hefty source of energy, minus unhealthy fats and cholesterol
Coconut milk- High in antioxidants, strengthens immunity and aids weight loss

Seeing these benefits, you will probably understand why I have settled for these ingredients for mixing up my Green Smoothie. And if you have some great ideas, do share them here.

Happy Blending!!

Eat Healthy!

Restaurants in Mumbai We Recommend

Continuing on our search for more gastronomic adventures in India, we decided to take a detour from the regular cafes, and also give you the option of more dining options in Mumbai city. So, here is a list of our top 10 restaurants, where you can share a meal with your friends or loved one.

The Bombay Canteen

Indian restaurants are hard to come by these days, especially in Mumbai, where the population is constantly craving flavours of the west. But among all the demand for western flavours, lies an experience of modern Indian cuisine – The Bombay Canteen. Indian at heart, the chefs have created some of the classic dishes of various regional cuisines of the country and given them a twist for all taste buds, with modern gastronomy, unique blends of flavours and impactful presentation. And even their cocktail menu follows the same ethos. Getting the best of both worlds, this little gem has become a favourite amongst Mumbaikars!

Must-Try: Grilled Dhokla Chaat, Banana Leaf Wrapped Roasted Fish, Mutton Uppu Kari, Gulab Nut

Website: http://thebombaycanteen.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebombaycanteen/

2. The Table, Colaba

One of the leading restaurants that first brought the concept of quality ingredients-driven gastronomy to Mumbai in 2011, The Table, Colaba, is now one of the most sought-after dining spots in the city. Sourcing fresh produce for its own farms and supreme quality of meats and seafood, the restaurant is committed to sourcing nearly all of its ingredients locally. It has truly brought the farm to fork culture to the forefront in Mumbai, and believes in presenting a simple, pure, yet sophisticated and enjoyable menu. Without putting a finger on a particular cuisine, the restaurant takes inspiration from all corners of the world including the Americas, Italy, France, China, Thailand, Japan and more. The restaurant also offers a great beverage menu with an extensive wine list and an expert sommelier to help you navigate through both local and international choices. The Table also hosts a number of events such as masterclasses with chefs and the sommelier. One can always find a place at this table!

Must-Try: Truffle Soft Scrambled Eggs on Toast, Yellowfin Tuna Tataki, Hand Made Goat Cheese Cavatelli, Baby Back Ribs, Chocolate Bundino

Website: http://www.thetable.in/index.php
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetable_colaba/

3. Cecconi’s, Soho House Mumbai

Situated in one of the most elite clubs and guests houses of Mumbai suburbs, Ceccnoi’s at Soho House Mumbai offers a modern-day twist to classic Italian flavours. I had the pleasure of staying at Soho House on my last visit to the metropolis and was impressed by the lavish Italian menu featuring authentic pasta, wood oven pizza, mouth-watering antipasti and irresistible desserts. A taste of Italy in India! And that’s not all. The ambience completes the experience with not just cosy indoors, but al-fresco dining on the shore of the famous Juhu Beach, with the view of the vast Arabian Sea. It’s the perfect spot for date night!

Must-Try: Fried Mozarella and Spicy Tomatoes, Parma Ham, Burrata & Rocket pizza, Risotto Asparagus, peas and mint, Chocolate & Amaretto Pudding

Website: http://www.cecconismumbai.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sohohousemumbai/

4. The Allis, Soho House Mumbai

Yet dining spot in the grand estate of Soho House Mumbai, The Allis is a great location for casual conversations with friends and family or professional meetings with colleagues and associates. The concept of this space is borrowed from the original Allis first opened in Soho House Chicago, and resonates the same stress-free vibes over coffee, juices and small bites, all day long. And just like Cecconi’s, this space is also open to non-members, making a sophisticated spot in the city for relaxed rendezvous and meetings.

Must-Try: Avocado Toast, Farfalle Four Cheese, Berry Pannacotta, Scones with Cream & Jam

Website: http://theallismumbai.com/#about
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sohohousemumbai/

5. Hakkasan

The Modern-Cantonese fine dining icon has gained a reputation as one of the leading restaurants in authentic Chinese food, in Mumbai food culture, since its launch in 2011. Located in the bustling Bandra district, which is accessible to both the North and South extremes of the city, Hakkasan is a favourite amongst locals here. From signature set lunch menus to extensive choices for elaborate dinners and innovative cocktails by skilled mixologists, this is always a place one seeks to get pampered with food. In addition to the regular menu, the culinary team here creates unique experiences by blending authentic Cantonese flavours and local nuances, to curate an “Only At” menu, exclusive to the city of Mumbai. One can also host private events at the restaurant.

Must-Try: Prawn Dumpling with Tobiko, Spicy Jackfruit dumpling, Roasted Mango Duck with Lemon Sauce, Woke Fried New Zealand Lamb Chops, Stir Fry Lotus Root and Asparagus in Black Pepper Sauce and Lemongrass and Vanilla Crème Brulée.

Website: https://hakkasan.com/mumbai/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hakkasanindia/

6. Bastian

Named after the crustacean Sebastian in everyone’s favourite tale from the sea – The Little Mermaid, this fun dining venue is on every seafood lover’s bucket list. Colourful interiors and rustic furnishings offer a more relaxed vibe and a convivial spot for date nights or family meals. Moreover, it is not just a favourite amongst locals, but one can be sure to spot famous faces from among the crème de la crème of Bollywood, savouring a meal here. Although famous for its extravagant seafood menu, the restaurant also understands the needs of fellow vegetarian counterparts and also offers sumptuous vegan and gluten-free options.

Must-Try: Pan Seared Mushroom Soup Buns, Vegan Millennial Bodhi Bowl, Salmon Jalapeno, Bastian Ceviche, Lobster Thermidor, Mud Crab in Mon’s Singapore Curry Basque Burnt Cheesecake.

Website: http://www.bastianrestaurant.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bastianmumbai/?hl=en

7. Seefah

This little nook on Hill Road, Bandra West, is home to authentic Thai and Japanese food in Mumbai. Unlike most others on this list, this is a great space for people looking for a casual dining setting, and still enjoying a wholesome and sophisticated meal. The menu offers everything from known regulars in Japanese and Thai cuisine to the undiscovered yet equally authentic dishes, all made with the choices of ingredients to give customers a complete experience of these two cuisines. In addition, the restaurant’s Thai Chilli Paste has gotten so popular amongst locals, that Seefah now sells this favourite recipe bottled in a jar, which makes for a great present to loved ones or to yourself to relish on its own or add to dishes at home!

Must-Try: Chicken or Mushroom Gyoza, Tuna Tataki, Vegetarian Shoyu Ramen, Roasted Tenderloin Salad, Honey Toast

Website: https://seefahhillroad.wordpress.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seefah_hillroad/?hl=en

8. Pa Pa Ya

This is yet another Asian icon, with numerous outlets dotted across the city. This restaurant, however, stands out because of their innovative presentation styles and contemporary cooking techniques of molecular gastronomy, using fresh and organic produce. The restaurant also offers an expansive menu of tapas, with a unique and flavour profile for each dish. An experience at Pa Pa Ya is incomplete without taking a sip from their extensive range of exclusive cocktails that pair seamlessly with the food.

Must-Try: Potato & Wheat Starch Prawn Hargao Dumplings, Truffle & Mushroom Bao, Spicy Crab Roll, Chocolate Ball on Fire

Website: https://www.gopapaya.co.in/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/papaya_asian/

9. O Pedro

Here is a piece of Goa’s coastal culinary delights in the heart of Mumbai. If you are not familiar with Goan cuisine, here is what you must know about it – a fiery infusion of centuries of Portuguese colonization and Indian flavours, giving one of the most renowned culinary favourites of the country today. Located in the business district of Bandra Kurla Complex, that is now a culinary hub, this haven of authentic Goan offerings has become a favourite for citizens from all over Mumbai, willing to travel the distance and withstand the infamous traffic for a taste of Goa on a weekday or weekend. If your next visit to India does not take you to Goa, you can be sure to get a taste of its flavours in Mumbai!

Must-Try: Lotus Root Chilly Fry, Lamb Shank AAD-MAS, Margao Choriz & Bacon Pulao, Lisboa PAS-TEL DE NA-TA and Aunty Li’s Serradura

Website: http://opedromumbai.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/opedromumbai/

10. Wasabi by Morimoto

Mumbai’s iconic treasure – the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, holds a culinary gem that serves authentic Japanese Cuisine – with every ingredient flown down from Japan! Established by world-renowned and award-winning Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto, Wasabi is the Morimoto restaurants’ flagship property in the country. With true Japanese flavours curated in unique presentation styles, this is a fine dining experience that is truly special in Mumbai. It has in fact been recognized as one of Asia’s top 50 Best Restaurants 2018, along with many other accolades to its credit. An indulgent experience, that if you do get the opportunity, you should not miss!

Must-Try: White Fish Carpaccio, Black Cod Miso, Morimoto Ramen Soup, Wasabi Crème Brulee

Website: http://www.candiescafe.com/index.php

This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to exploring the culinary scene of the city that never sleeps. If you wish to know about more these treasure troves of food bliss, then maybe plan a trip for a weekend to experience just to explore what the city’s kitchens have in store for you!

You can also check out our blog “Cool Cafes in Mumbai that We Love“

Cool Cafes in Mumbai that We Love.

The financial capital of Mumbai is a melting pot and a growing food hub in India. Every nook and corner has cafes that are teeming with either professional’s meeting to discuss business, friends sitting to catch up over coffee or family members visiting nostalgic nooks for a satisfying Sunday Brunch. And while the list is endless, we have narrowed it down to those cafes that should probably be at the top of your itinerary when you visit Mumbai.

Kala Ghoda Café

Kala Ghoda (Black Stallion) is one of the city’s more iconic areas that is buzzing with history and culture. Perhaps, this is why the café has taken on the same name, because it truly takes on these characteristics of the neighbourhood. Kala Ghoda Café is set in a 20^th century barn with rustic furnishings and modern amenities. The cuisine is a mix of Continental delights as well as more of the local Parsi favourites and has a plethora of brews to choose from. It has also recently opened its own wine bar where one can enjoy both Indian and international choices. In support of culture, the café also occasionally transforms in a gallery to promote local talent, and makes for a great place to unwind with friends or a rendezvous with someone special.

Must Try: Akuri (Spicy scrambled-eggs, Parsi style), Salli Boti with Oat and Flax Roti (Parsi Mutton Curry with wheat-free bread), Champa Infusion Tea (Organic Frangipani Flower Petals served in a Pot) and Iced Mochachino

Website: www.kgcafe.in

2. Café Mondegar

Standing proud since 1932, Café Mondegar derives its inspiration from retro American diners and is the first café of the city with a vintage jukebox that still booms through the establishment today. Enviously located on the ever-buzzing Colaba Causeway, it is bordered with colourful shops of jewellery, handbags, juttis and more, and is a favourite for both locals and tourists. If you happen to visit the café for breakfast, don’t be surprised to see youngsters flooding the place, dressed up in their finery from the night before – it’s a favourite pit-stop for them to refuel after a long night of hard partying. The vibe is completely relaxed, with murals of Mario Miranda plastered across all walls and classic songs playing all day long. The cuisine is a mix of American Diner picks, Indian favourites and the famous Indo-Chinese derivatives. And each of these pairs well with everyone’s favourite – a pint of good old Kingfisher beer, that the servers are ever ready to help you with a refill.

Must Try: Bacon Wrapped Prawns, Arrabiatta Penne Pasta and Mondy’s Special Steak Cheese Burger

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cafemondegar/

3. Leopold Café

Yet another icon of Mumbai, Leopold Café has witnessed some of the most tragic nights of Mumbai city, one of the main targets of the 26/11 attacks. And yet, it stands tall even today! One can even see the scars of battle till today, where the storm of bullets has left its mark on the walls. But that’s about where the tragedy ends. Again, situated on the bustling Colaba Causeway, the café is just as popular as its neighbour that we spoke of above. The difference in the offerings are not miles away, but if you come here, make sure to pick from the menu of classic Indian dishes that everyone loves to chow down, with pitchers of your favourite beer. The next time you visit the city, insist on the locals to take you here!

Must Try: Cheese Chilli Toast, Hakka Mushroom and Mutton Keema Pav

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leopoldcafemumbai/

4. Suzette

Let’s move out of local history, and take a culinary trip to France in Mumbai, shall we? Suzette is an authentic French bakery, café and bistro run by French expats and chefs, who have filled their counters with scrumptious boules and loaves of bread, luscious French pastries and satiating sandwiches, all made from scratch with love and commitment in their very own kitchen. The ingredients for each of their products are meticulously chosen to give one a true taste of France. Located in the more happening suburb of Bandra, in Mumbai, this little café has had a mighty impact, with everyone from the neighbourhood making a pit stop for a coffee run or a gratifying, yet healthy meal if they are feeling peckish.

Must Try: Sourdough Bread, Croque Monsieur and all their crepes in savoury and sweet form

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suzettemumbai/?hl=en

5. Le 15 Café

Heaf Chef and Founder of Le 15, Pooja Dhingra, erected this establishment as an effort to bring a bit of her happy place – Paris, to Mumbai. Le 15 first started out as a small patisserie serving delicious pastries, cupcakes and macarons. Today, it has its various outlets dotted all across the city, serving patisserie delights, French-inspired nibbles and great coffee. The café at every nook and corner of the city is a great place to re-energize yourself with some food and brew before you take on the rest of your busy day. Bon Appétit!

Must Try: Chilli Beetroot Fettucine Aglio A Olio, Avocado Croissant, the Marie, Justina and Julia desserts, and Pink Latte

Website: https://le15.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/le15india/?hl=en

6. Prithivi Café

Attached to the famous Prithvi Theatre that showcases plays, live performances and other cultural facets of the city, Prithvi Café is a quaint and tranquil corner in Mumbai, in the western suburb, Juhu. Splayed out in the open, this little serene place of heaven is surrounded by bamboo and greenery, and comes alive at night with paper lanterns strung along with the trees. You will find many a creative mind here, mingling to bring their vision to life and their creativity to the forefront. It is also, however, a favourite hangout spot for people of all ages, from 18 to 80.

Must Try: Irish Coffee, Cutting Chai, Brownies

Website: http://prithvitheatre.org/cafe.php

7. Grandmama’s Café

In case you are feeling particularly low or homesick on your travels in Mumbai, we suggest stopping by at an outlet of Grandmama’s Café that can be found at various neighbourhoods in the city. After all, there is nothing more comforting than a meal cooked by your grandma, and these little joy-filled kitchens are an ode to grandmothers all over the world. Serving classic dishes straight from the stove of your childhood, everything at Grandmama’s Café is sure to perk you up and put you in a better mood. With quaint settings and vintage furnishings, it’s like a blanket of comfort in a hug or in a bowl! And if that wasn’t enough, they now even feature Grandpa’s Den – a little nook with plush leather seating for you to sip on 12 famous cocktails that your grandfather learnt of on his travels. Bet that visit to your grandparents’ isn’t such a bad idea now!

Must Try: Shepherd’s Pie, Mac & Cheese, Poached Avocado Toast

Website: http://www.grandmamascafe.com/index.html
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grandmamascafe/?hl=en

8. Birdsong Café

Tucked away in the nook of one of Bandra’s many convoluted lanes, lies this gem of a relaxing café that believes in a healthy and organic diet that is absolutely flavourful! With gluten-free and vegan and keto-friendly options, it has definitely become a hub for those seeking a healthier lifestyle. The beachy vibes and rustic stone walls and large windows, make you want to sit there for hours either with a companion or in your own company. They are committed to sourcing the best of local and organic ingredients and combining them to make the most delightful meals. And if you’re looking to get away from the fast-paced life of Mumbai city, this is the place to be.

Must Try: Wild Mushroom Cappuccino with almond foam, Wild Rice Risotto, Cortado Coffee and Kashmiri Kahwa (tea)

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/birdsong.cafe/?hl=en

9. Taj Mahal Tea House

If like me, you like to enjoy your tea in solitude and appreciating the finer things of life, this Tea House is the place for you. Each of the tea Extracts have been handpicked by connoisseurs and combined to give a plethora of new flavours to discover. They also host tea ceremonies on select mornings for those who wish to learn the delicate aromas and nuances of these unique blends. Stop by here on an afternoon with only your favourite book as your companion, or enjoy a live music session – there is always a means to soothe your soul here.

Must Try: Assam Flaming Hue Tea, Cooling Kokum with Darjeeling Green Tea and Glacial Blue

Website: https://www.tajmahalteahouse.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tajmahalteahousemumbai/?hl=en

10. Candies Café

If someone you know has been to junior college in Mumbai, then this café on our list needs no introduction. Candies is every 17-year-old Mumbaikars hangout spot, and for all working men and ladies, it is a nostalgic retreat for long conversations over coffee. Although there are three branches in Bandra, the soul of Candies remains the flagship café @ Mac Ronells – a Portuguese style villa. The three levels of this building are filled with vintage posters and unique mosaics and tiles, Moroccan lamps that make you feel like you are on a Mediterranean holiday. And most importantly, nothing beats the taste of your favourite dishes from your late teenage years.

Must Try: Chicken Steak in Mushroom Sauce, Spinach & Mushroom Cannelloni and Nougat Sundae

Website: http://www.candiescafe.com/index.php
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/candiescafe/?hl=en

So, the next time you are in Mumbai and need to catch a breath before you get back to battling the hustle of the city, visit the cafes from this list and watch the world go by.

A Brilliant Breakfast Brunch at The Ivy, Birmingham

The Ivy, Birmingham opened its doors to food fanatics in April 2018 and has been delighting diners with its delicious fare ever since. Elegant, enticing, and exciting, the Ivy promises you a memorable dining experience, and in my opinion, it delivers far more than is expected.

I had been wanting to visit The Ivy Birmingham for a while, when last month, I was finally able to make it to Temple Row in the City Center where it’s located. We’d heard great reviews about the place and were looking forward to our first brunch meal here.

When we entered the restaurant, our first impression was of plush sophistication. Hues of orange and green are dominant in the décor, with beautiful Art Deco glass, muted lights, and interesting artwork adorning the walls. The 3-floors of The Ivy Birmingham are as much a tribute to great artistry as they are to gastronomy. Simply sitting in the pleasant ambiance was very invigorating; the sumptuous food, a big, big bonus.

We started our meal with a coffee since that’s the elixir that gets me up and going every day. My cappuccino was rich and satisfying, with the Ivy logo floating on the froth. We then moved on to the interesting offerings of the brunch menu which are served till 11.30 am Mon-Fri, and till 11 am on the weekend.

Here’s what we ordered: two juices, Beet It and Green Juice, one portion of Avocado, tomato, and sesame, which comes with poached hen’s eggs on toasted granary with sesame dressing and also the breakfast classic Eggs Benedict.

Beet It was a flavorsome concoction of beetroot, apple, lemon & ginger, while Green Juice had avocado, mint, celery, spinach, apple, and parsley. The juices were super-healthy and very refreshing, and if I’d had any more space left, I would’ve tried a few more juices from their enticing selection of fresh beverages.

The Avocado preparation had chopped avocado topped with roast plum tomatoes, a poached hen’s eggs and sesame dressing. The combination was complimentary and the preparation light, which made it a perfect brunch dish.

The Eggs Benedict came with pulled honey roast ham on toasted English muffins, two poached hen’s eggs with hollandaise sauce, and some watercress. I love this preparation since the eggs were cooked to perfection and the hollandaise sauce was flavoured just right.

To sum up the experience, I’d say it was fabulous beyond words. The selection of food at The Ivy Birmingham is a flawless balance of British classics and world cuisine. The ambiance and décor are spectacular, to say the least. The open, wide-spaced seating makes it a great place to host parties or enjoy a night out with friends or family. The staff is courteous and well-informed of the menu’s specifics. All these positives make me want to visit again, sometime soon.

I’ll probably head to The Ivy Birmingham again for another brunch with friends, or maybe even on date night!

Delicious Diet Foods – So Shape Making Dreams Come True!

I like to believe that I am maintaining a healthy lifestyle, but then fall off the fitness bandwagon sometimes. In fact, I often get queries from friends, family, and followers regarding the secret to my fitness. The answer is simple – I try to eat the right kind of food and add enough physical activity to my daily routine.

The next question I’m then asked is what it is that I’m eating. Well, let me introduce you to a healthy-eating option I recently discovered. A French Smart Meal brand called So Shape provides a range of easy-to-prep food options that are perfect for people like me who are always on-the-go.

So Shape has a simple food philosophy. Their meals are carefully created to optimize nutrient value and minimize calorie intake. The proposed method for getting the best out of So Shape is replacing your regular diet with 2 So Shape Smart Meals and one open, healthy lunch.

What I like about the So Shape way of eating is that it is sustainable. The main reason for this is that their meals are as delicious as they are healthy. Most attempts at dieting typically fail because you begin craving other tasty foods, all too soon. With So Shape Smart Meals, your cravings are taken care of because their preparations themselves are so tasty. Also, since they are nutrient-rich, you feel healthy, energetic, and satiated for longer.

I have tried their pancake mix and flavoured shakes so far. They were filling, delicious, and super-easy to make. The best part is, you have a whopping 22 options of Smart Meals to choose from. These include a wide variety of shakes, frappes, soups, and pasta, which allows you much flexibility regarding planning your meals. With So Shape Smart Meals, the likelihood of getting bored with eating the same bland food is very low.

Another thing to note about So Shape Smart Meals is that they have vegan and some gluten-free options as well. This feature gets them an extra thumbs-up from me because it can get very difficult to find vegan/gluten-free meals that do not require too much prepping.

If you’re wondering about the price-point, all meals are priced between £2.5-£3, which makes them affordable meal-replacement options. Apart from the Smart Meals, So Shape also has Smart Foods which are inherently healthy snacks you can have in-between meals. I think these Smart Foods are also a brilliant idea because unhealthy snacking is a habit that many people are guilty of.

So, if you are looking to transform your diet into nutrient-rich, low-calorie intake, and that too, in the least time/effort consuming way, So Shape Smart Meals can be your food angel. Have a go at it, and let me know if you enjoyed them as much as I did!

Use code ARCHANACUSTOM to save £9.50 and double flavours on the 14 & 28-day challenges
Store Link – https://uk.soshape.com/collections/challenges

Healthy Food Habits to Start the New Year

2018 is here and it’s time to make sure our resolutions are followed through. There might be a long list to consider, but one thing that everyone wants to make sure is to be healthier and happier in the year to come. When it comes to being healthier, a lot depends on the kind of food you eat and the lifestyle you follow. So if you are looking to revamp your food habits in the next year, here are a few tried and tested tips I would recommend:

Pack variety in your daily diet

The best way to give yourself a kick start in the New Year is to pack variety in your daily diet. Balance your nutrients, with plenty of protein and vitamins, healthy carbs, and minerals in your daily menu. I suggest at least five servings of fresh fruits and veggies in a day, with precedence to high-antioxidant sources such as berries and leafy greens. Look for some colour in your plate as coloured foods are high in anti-oxidants.

Be selective with your fats

Who says that fats are always unhealthy!! Learn to differentiate between “good” fat and “bad” fat so that you can be selective. I have experienced the difference after switching over to the healthier options such as olive oil and coconut oil. Omega-3s are the healthiest form that you can get from sardines, salmon, walnuts and almonds. On the other hand, keep away from processed foods that are high in unhealthy trans-fats.

Start the day with a healthy breakfast

If you have been ditching your breakfast in the last year, it’s time to start having a hearty one now. Believe me, you are not doing any favour to yourself by missing your daily bowl of cereal. A full breakfast keeps you satiated and gives you all the energy you need through the day. At the same time, it prevents hunger pangs, which is great news for weight-watchers.

Go low on sugar and salt

This year, cut down on your sugar and salt intake so that you can curb weight gain and bloating. This healthy habit can also alleviate the risk of chronic health issues such as diabetes and hypertension too. Substitute this with healthier options such as honey, rock salt and spices. Try out healthier recipes with these healthier ingredients and who knows, you may come up with a stellar one!

Be generous with water

And, the best resolution that you can make for a healthier 2018, is to increase your daily water intake to at least 10 glasses. Water is a superb natural detoxifying agent and does wonders for your digestion, skin, hair, and the entire body. Opt for water instead of drinking energy drinks, flavoured juices and sodas. Warm water after meals makes a great way to digest food faster and easier.

Aren’t these food habits simple to adopt? Yes, they are and most amazingly, the changes they can bring are really, really effective. And most importantly, combine them with regular exercise and healthy lifestyle to have a great year 2018.

Harvey Nichols and Mailbox Experience in Birmingham

The next you find yourself in Birmingham, I highly recommend that you visit The Mailbox. To call the Mailbox a ‘shopping centre’ or a ‘neighbourhood mall’ is an absolute understatement. The Mailbox is a destination in its own right, combining world-class lifestyle, shopping, hospitality, culinary and entertainment experiences under one roof. Not only does it offer something that everyone can look forward to; it is also situated by the canals of the city centre – a fantastic location which is bustling with activity and energy in the evening. Other shopping and business districts such as Grand Central, New Street, High Street, Corporation Street and Brindleyplace are all close-by, less than a ten-minute walk away, so you can really make a day out of it.

The entire experience is made even more seamless by The Mailbox application for mobile phones, which enables users to gain access to exclusive discounts, restaurant reservations and pre-orders. Better yet, the more that you engage with the application, the more personalised your experience at The Mailbox becomes. What more does a girl need?

One of my favourite stores at The Mailbox is undoubtedly Harvey Nichols, which feels like a destination within a destination. In true Harvey Nichols style, the store at The Mailbox offers a luxury shopping experience that is difficult to replicate. Not only does it showcase some of the best brands in fashion, beauty, food and wine (some of which are exclusive to this particular store); it also amps up the retail experience with thoughtful touches across the space, such as the beauty rooms where one can take a break and indulge in a relaxing treatment, and the expert Style Concierge team who can help you find and style some of the season’s hottest trends in fashion and beauty.

If you’re a foodie, you should definitely make time to explore the wonders that you can find at the Harvey Nichols Food Market, which houses a specially-selected collection of fine foods. Stock up on everything from delectable chocolates for the holiday season to healthy treats for January, and from difficult-to-find ingredients to wines from across the world. It is truly an adventure!

And when you get tired of the shopping and the munchies kick in, you can take a seat at the in-store restaurant and treat yourself to some delicious food from a menu that has been specially curated by the Michel-star chef Glynn Purnell. The first thing that stands out about the restaurant is the atmosphere – it feels premium yet homely and upscale yet approachable, with modern décor and a cosy feel that is difficult to achieve in such a high-end, stylish setting. And of course, the food is absolutely on point as well, featuring fresh ingredients (many of which are sourced locally) that give rise to exquisitely fresh flavours. Whether you want to stop by for an afternoon tea with some scones, or have a full-fledged meal with close friends or family, the restaurant is the cherry on top when it comes to the Harvey Nichols at The Mailbox experience – you don’t want to miss out on this!

House Leamington – Opening Night & Restaurant Review

House Leamington, a new restaurant located at the premium location of Leamington Parade Road, is all set to tempt the palate of food lovers with its amazing food and drinks. The restaurant which was inaugurated on 12^thNovember 2016 has the theme of “Home away from home”as one could guess from its name. The quirky interiors give it a wonderful ambience while the classic food and drinks bring it closer to heart. Let’s know more about this new place, which is sure to be the talk of the town! Space wise, House Leamington deserves to be called lavish, as it offers three bars along with four additional sitting areas that serve diverse needs. The sitting area comprises of a restaurant link sitting, an open terrace for smoke lovers and a roof-top garden where guests can enjoy lit fire during winter nights. Another one is a secret room for private get-together and parties so that guests can have a nice time on their own. While the outdoor sitting works for people who prefer open air, the indoors are great for groups and parties. House Leamington is an awesome place for children too.

Next is the menu, which is as appealing to the palate as the décbar or is for the eye. House Leamington serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, drinks and coffee. It offers an exquisite twist to classic food, making it a must-try for avid food enthusiasts. Whether it is food or drinks, there are amazing and wholesome options to tempt the taste buds and keep the stomach happy. What more, there is a special menu for the little ones too.

I would rate House Leamington as a place for one and the all, perfect for a night out with friends, whether you are a college-goer looking for some excitement or a food lover who wants to spend a lovely evening enjoying sumptuous food and splendid drinks along with a meaningful conversation with friends. Being a foodie that I am, I would definitely love to try out the breakfast menu sometime soon.

Happy Dining!!!

Coffee Lovers Must Read – Toffee Cookie Cappuccino Recipe

MONIN is a popular brand in the gourmet flavor business. The brand offers over 140 products including premium syrups, liqueurs, gourmet sauces, fruit smoothies and cocktail mixes and frappe powders across 140 countries.

The brand is a leader in the premium syrups category and also my go to brand when it comes to buying syrups for coffees and drinks. I recently tried the MONIN Chocolate Cookie Syrup and totally loved it.
The chocolate cookie syrup has a buttery dark chocolate biscuit taste. It is really great syrup for making signature cocktails, mocktails, flavored coffees and other dessert drinks. The syrup is dark brown in color and has glints of caramel in it. The tasting notes contain cookie with a touch of caramelized sugar, buttery chocolate biscuit and creamy chocolate notes.

You can use MONIN Chocolate Cookie Syrup with dairy products like milk and ice-cream for making thick shakes and milkshakes. You can also use it with cream for dessert drinks or drizzle a little over vanilla ice cream for cookie flavor.

Here, I tried a flavored coffee recipe with the chocolate cookie syrup. Here’s my recipe for Toffee Cookie Cappuccino:

15 ml MONIN Chocolate Cookie syrup
15 ml MONIN Caramel sauce
1 espresso shot
Add the a shot of espresso first and then add the 150 ml hot frothy milk

Have you tried any syrup from MONIN or flavored coffee recipes?
Comment and let me know in the comments section below.

Where Taste Meets Healthy Goodness! Luscombe Drinks – My Love!

If you follow my blog, you probably know that I’m a fitness enthusiast to the very core. I like to live a healthy lifestyle, which sometimes, given my busy schedule and numerous commitments, isn’t too easy.

But I manage to eat right, exercise and mediate on most days. It really helps that in this day and age, there are a lot of commercial initiatives that can aid your wellness goals. And Luscombe Drinks is one such production that brings you a sure step closer to good health and organic living.

Let me tell you a little bit about the Luscombe Drinks team. A family business that is the brain-child of Gabriel David, this company is known for their minimally-processed natural drinks, made from the finest fruits and flowers. I came across their soft drinks recently and fell in love with them.

I tried their Sicilian Lemonade, Strawberry Crush and Wild Elderflower Bubbly. The Sicilian Lemonade is this sharp, citrusy drink with a hint of vanilla that gives you an immediate kick. It makes for a great drink after a long, hot day in summertime. Strawberry Crush, on the other hand, is perfect for long, cool evenings. Its sour-sweet taste is a tangy mood-setter and complements salty snacks and hors d’oeuvre brilliantly. But my personal favourite is the Wild Elderflower Bubbly which is like a blast of flavour with just a hint of fizz. I have served it at parties and it has been a great hit – better than your average soda; yummier and more healthy even!
I believe that the reason Luscombe Drinks are so addictive is because the makers’ emphasize all too strongly on quality and taste. Their ingredients are sourced from the best of places and small batches are prepared in one go to maintain levels of freshness. Often, their drinks are sedimented too, so you know there are no additives at all. I’ve just tried three flavours so far but given how delicious they are, I’m sure the others taste absolutely yummy too.

I’m going to be trying new flavours as soon as possible and what’s best is, it’s a guilt-free indulgence. What’s better to snack on than natural beverages filled with fruity goodness? These soft drinks strike the right balance between taste and healthiness which makes them an ideal addition to my daily diet. I’m all for Luscombe Drinks now. What about you? Would you want to try?

5 Healthy Food Substitutions for Better Hair and Skin

One of the easiest ways to embark on your journey to healthy living is to substitute unhealthy food items for healthy options that serve the same purpose. Not only does this technique ensure long-term wellness; it also has multiple benefits for your weight, hair, skin and nails. Wedding season is right around the corner and every one of us wants our hair and skin to be looking their very best – these five food substitutions are the way to go!

Glowing skin: avocado puree instead of butter in baking

Though both these fats are quite different in nature, they have pretty much the same consistency and work the same way when it comes to baking. Plus, the subtle taste of the avocado works really well in chocolate bakes like brownies and cakes! Avocado is loaded with antioxidants that help in repairing damaged skin and protecting it from the harmful rays of the sun. Lots of antioxidants also create a gorgeous glow, unlike anything that a bronzer can give you!

Healthy hair: cacao nibs instead of chocolate chips

Cacao nibs are loaded with protein, vitamins, minerals and all that good stuff! Needless to say, they have multiple benefits for your health and skin, but did you know that they work wonders on your hair, too? That’s right! The most important hair benefit is that cacao increases the blood circulation in your scalp, which promotes hair growth and makes your tresses shiny and lustrous. On the flipside, it also minimizes the chances of hair fall. Win-win!

Softer skin: quinoa instead of oatmeal

Quinoa is a grain seed that is really, really good for you, which is why this super food has sprung into the limelight this year. It works as a really good substitute for oatmeal – just cook it with milk and add a dash of cinnamon. Quinoa is loaded with riboflavin, a vitamin that helps in restoring elasticity in your skin, making it soft and supple. It also prevents fine lines and wrinkles from developing prematurely.

Hair growth: chia seeds instead of cornflakes

Chia seeds are another type of super food that are loaded with protein and a host of other health benefits! Not only do they taste absolutely amazing when soaked in almond milk – they are also much healthier than your usual bowl of cornflakes, and they keep you full for longer, so your snacking tends to reduce. More importantly, chia seeds are made up of a lot of protein, which helps in restoring damaged hair, encourages hair growth and strengthens weak tresses. After all, our hair is primarily made up of protein, too.

Revitalised skin: lettuce instead of regular tortilla wraps

Apart from the huge number of calories that you are saving on, lettuce also works miracles on the skin. It can do a lot of things – fight acne, remove toxins, protect your skin from UV rays and give your skin cells the nutrition they need. Additionally, lettuce is great for revitalising damaged or tired skin because of its high vitamin A content. Give it a shot and say hello to healthier skin!