Family Cooking Tips

Posts Tagged ‘Indian food’

Research into recent rise in takeaway sales by takeaway portal Just-Eat.co.uk has found that eating indian food, particularly spicier options, can relieve stress in much the same way as exercise due to the release of endorphins or ‘fell-good’ hormones. Curries which contain red chilli peppers and also tomatoes help release endorphins containing rich mood enhancing chemicals and is the best edible way to relieve stress.

A study of 1185 people conducted by the site found that 92 per cent of Brits say they feel happier after eating a takeaway. Eighty four per cent of the participants mentioned that fact they didn’t have to cook when ordering in was a factor in improving their mood.

The top five mood-improving curries decided by Just-Eat meal experts comparing restaurant cooking methods and included ingredients are as follows:

1.  Chicken/Beef Madras – There are many variations on Madras curry in India due to the availability of ingredients in certain regions of the country. Quite a simple curry with a deep red colour and lots of chilli powder.

2. Vindaloo – This Indian dish derives from a Portuguese dish and usually contains chicken or lamb. It has become popular in many Indian restaurants across the UK and is also normally one of the hottest dishes available on their menus.

2. Thai Red Curry – The main ingredient in this curry dish is curry paste as well as coconut milk however funnily enough it does not include any curry power or dried spices.

4. Pasanda – A mild dish compared to most Indian curries, its originates from North Indian and Pakistan and is heavily seasoned with spice and meat.

5. Jalfrezi – This curry has think source created by marinated meat or veg and then chillies are added to create the desired temperature.

So do yourself a favour and next time you order a curry takeaway choose one which is going to help you beat stress and improve your mood!

If you have ever experienced making pizza from your kitchen you will know the answer – the smell as it cooks! You cannot afford to miss good preparation, and if you have the time, make your own dough. if you cannot afford the time to make your own dough, there is lots available at most supermarkets.

Any food that you can enjoy from home should fill the room and whet the appetite, such as indian food which has a unique freshness.

I haven’t been into cooking pizzas at home for long, but like many, my inspiration comes from particular takeaway or restaurant experiences. Nearby is restaurant on the seafront, which is known for its pizzas and its entertainment. I like the combination of tasty food and entertainment, and particularly in Europe, I think the Italians and Spanish are unbeatable. In the north of Spain, they have an unsual way of serving the cider or ‘sidre’ to their customers. The waiter pours the drink from above his head into a glass, whilst appearing to be in a trance state. Pointless – but great entertainment!

The Italians love to show how good they are at preparing their dough, and how important it is to spend the time doing so. There are secrets to making a pizza according to these people – preparation to start followed by the correct oven temperature. This dough becomes much softer and more flexible than at the start of the process. I have first hand experience of this, because they bring it round to your table and let you try the technique for yourself! They are masters of the art of ‘spinning’ the dough, helping to create the familiar shape that we all know.

When prepared and topped with the ingredients ordered, the pizza then goes in the oven. It takes about ten to fifteen minutes until your taste buds are assaulted by the smell emanating from the oven. The nice this is that you don’t have to stay inside to enjoy your meal. Weather permitting, you can enjoy the entertainment and spill out on the seafront or the beach! Great food, sunset on the beach and good company – marvellous!