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A soft and fluffy date and coffee cake recipe

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I can never get enough of cakes. Indeed, baking has proved as the most therapeutic means to manage my anxious mind. Amid all others, baking a date cake and a banana cake seemed stress-free for me; given the fact that I am left with minimal utensils to wash and the cakes turn delectable and fluffy. However, the road to baking a moist and soft old-fashioned healthy date cake consist of not much hard work. Just some great quality dates and brown sugar and the win is all yours.

Ever since I developed this cherished bond with baking aromatic cakes, there’s no stopping. In fact, all the eggs and fruits that my husband brings would go into my cakes or tarts. I love how my fervent desire for cooking (or baking) is molding so perfectly each day. From blazing a cake to ashes to baking that perfectly soft and spongy cake, I have got my hands on precision.

How temperature or material of the vessel affect while baking

And this date cake is the result of weeks of experimenting with temperatures, ingredients, vessels, and techniques. In case of baking, it is imperative to know that every oven has different features and the baking differs from an aluminum to a silicon vessel. So, you need to experiment with your vessels and temperatures of your oven before settling for a perfect spongy cake.

Unlike my other gooey or sticky date cakes, I decided to keep this a bit light, fluffy, and moist at the same time. 

date cake photo, cake photography

Date cake baking temperature may vary depending upon factors like vessels used, materials or size of the cake, etc. For this date cake, I used a rectangular silicon mold and an OTG to bake. I kept the temperature at 185 degrees Celsius for less than 20 minutes.

Here’s the recipe on how to make a perfect date cake, or a date and coffee cake:
  1. Pick a fistful of good quality dates and remove the seeds.
  2. Boil half a glass of water.
  3. Put the dates in the boiling water, stir in between intervals.
  4. Once the water soaks to half, leaving a mushy bottom, add a tablespoon of instant coffee powder. 
  5. Stir for about two minutes and remove the pan. 
  6. Once cooled, transfer to a food processor and reduce it to a smooth paste. You can also use a few tablespoons of milk if the blend seems too dry. 
  7. The date paste is ready.

A Date and Coffee Cake Recipe

This is not a sticky date cake but a fluffy and moist date and coffee cake
Prep Time15 minutes
Active Time25 minutes
Total Time40 minutes

Equipment

  • Pan
  • Bowl
  • Oven
  • Whisk
  • Cake Mould

Materials

For the mush

  • 10 Dates Good Quality
  • 1 tbsp Coffee powder Instant coffee
  • ½ Cup Water

The Date Cake

  • 1 Cup All purpose flour
  • 2 Tbsp Cocoa Powder
  • 2 Eggs
  • ½ Cup Sugar White and brown
  • 1 Tsp Butter
  • 3 Tbsp Refined oil
  • 1 Tsp Baking powder
  • 1 Tsp Vanilla essence
  • 1 Pinch Baking soda
  • 1 Pinch Salt

Instructions

  • Add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, coco powder, and salt in a bowl and seive the dry ingredients once or twice.
  • In another bowl, break 2 eggs and add the granulated sugar and date mush.
  • Using a hand mixer, beat the concoction for about 3-5 minutes, until it turns smooth.
  • Gradually add the the vanilla essence, refined oil, and butter and beat again.
  • Once all the ingredients are incorporated, add the dry ingredients in batches and beat using the electric whisk.
  • Mix the ingredients well using a spatula.
  • Transfer into a well-greased mold.
  • Bake into a pre-heated oven for 20-25 minutes.
  • Insert a skewer to check your cake.
  • Ta-dah!

For a fluffy date cake, make sure your mixture is not too concentrated or neither too runny. It has to be a smooth batter that doesn’t stick on your spatula in a “never-leaving” way.

Also, for mixing the wet ingredients, I used the same pan that I used for boiling the dates. Saved my time washing another utensil. 😉

date cake photo, cake photography

Did your date cake turn out this good?

Share your experiences in the comments or write to me at [email protected]

Have an aromatic baking experience! 🙂

Creamy fruit tart recipe- Beetroot, mango, chocolate, and cream cheese tart recipe

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The luxuriance of pastry cream is heavenly. The amazing blend of egg yolks, corn starch, milk, cream, and sweetness is just the right snack for your craves. While there lies a number of tricks and tips to make a really succulent tart, the path doesn’t seem too crammed with sweat. Just the right amount of ingredients are important to rule the recipe. Nevertheless, to make this beetroot, mango, chocolate, and cream cheese tart recipe, it was one incredible experience. 

At one moment, I would plan to mix the mango and cream cheese, while on the other, I would wonder how a combination of chocolate and mango would taste like.

But you will gladly love this creamy fruit tart recipe- whether for munching or to round up as a dinner dessert.

Jump to Recipe

Making an authentic French Tart Recipe 

A tart is usually a baked recipe, consisting of a crumbly firm pastry shell with a sweet, savory, or fruity base. Nonetheless, for a French fruit tart recipe, the 4 essential ingredients include:

  • A sweet pastry crust
  • The vanilla pastry cream filling
  • Fresh fruits
  • A tart glaze

Seemingly, most French tart recipes call for berries and fruits on top. I preferred to play the fruit inside. 

Drawing everything from scratch is arduous and time-consuming, but it is worth the results. However, for an impatient person like me, things can often spill over. Luckily, I rescued the dessert from falling apart.

I was literally out of my mind (and body) when all at once, I decided to bake this tart. Not out of a great mood but out of frustration.

I set the gelatin to bloom and began curdling the milk. It was the creamiest of cream cheese that I had ever tasted. Even my chocolate ganache was ready. Sigh!

I was almost ready with my fillings when I realized I hadn’t even set the pastry dough.

I opened the cupboard to reach for the Marie biscuit packet. And wow! My biscuit tart shell turned out as an absolute complement to the incredible layers of sweetness.

Making of the crust and filling

This tart cake is the summary of a rich, creamy, chocolaty, and nutty taste at one bite. Like a classic French chocolate tart, it has the lusciousness of chocolate, graced by the tanginess of mango, and at the same time, the sublime flavor and silkiness of cream cheese. Just the right recipe to appease all moods.

For the tart base (or shortcrust), I used a packet of Marie biscuits. You can use any biscuits.

For the filling, I used three layers of cream cheese, mango, and beetroot and white chocolate base. This fresh fruit tart is the ultimate beauty you will ever make. 

Follow the tart crust recipe here:

4-in-one tart recipe- beetroot, mango, chocolate, and ricotta tart recipe

A good blend of different flavors, this french tart is your call for all kinds of snacking.
Prep Time30 minutes
Active Time1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time2 hours
Course: Dessert
Keyword: baked recipe, dessert recipe, French chocolate tart, French fruit tart, mango tart cake, tart at home, tart recipe
Yield: 3

Equipment

  • Tart mould
  • Heating pan
  • Food processor
  • Glass bowl
  • Spatula

Materials

For the tart crust/ shell

  • 1 packet Marie Biscuit You can opt for coconut or digestive biscuits also
  • 1 whole Egg
  • 3-4 tbsp Butter
  • 3 tbsp Sugar

For the filling

  • 1 cup Cream cheese
  • 1 tsp Vanilla essence
  • 2-3 Ripe Mangoes I took the small variety of mangoes
  • 5 grams White chocolate
  • 1 Beetroot
  • 2 tbsp Gelatin
  • 2 tbsp Melted butter
  • 1 tsp Corn starch

Instructions

  • Grind the biscuits to a fine powder 
  • Add the egg and the melted butter. Mix thoroughly.
  • Add the granulated sugar and mix again
  • Spread into a tart mould and press the ends firmly.
  • Bake at 180 degrees for 20 minutes
  • Remove from the oven and brush the shell with egg wash
  • Put it back in the oven for another five minutes

Layer 1- Cream Cheese Filling

  • Add the cream cheese, vanilla essence, and sugar in a bowl and beat it until the sugar completely dissolves with the cheese. Keep aside.

Layer 2- Mango Filling

  • For the mango pastry cream, add the mango cubes into a blender and make a fine smooth pulp.

Layer 3- Beetroot and white chocolate filling

  • Add 5 tbsp water to the 2 tbsp gelatin. Set aside for 10-15 minutes.
  • Grind or grate the beetroot and extract the juice using a sieve. Keep in a separate bowl.
  • Add a tsp of corn starch to half a cup of water, and stir. 
  • On medium heat, pour the mixture into a pan.
  • Now pour the bloomed gelatin into the corn starch mixture.
  • Add the vanilla and the beetroot extract. Bring it to boil. Sieve and keep aside. 
  • In another pan, heat water and place the white chocolate and butter on a glass bowl to melt.
  • Now fold the melted chocolate into beetroot extract.

For the assembly

  • Add the cream cheese layer in the cooled tart mold. Spread it evenly using a spatula. Bake for 15 minutes at 180 degrees.
  • Pour the second layer of mango pulp once the first filling cools. Let it set for five minutes in the fridge.
  • Now add the beetroot and chocolate layer. 
  • Refrigerate for 4-5 hours.

A good balance of a mango cheesecake and a French chocolate tart, this fruit tart contis is an amazing pick for all your dessert choices.

Let me know in the comments how your tart recipe goes.

Easy way to make watermelon halwa

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The arrival of Bihu always fascinates me. Likely because I love seeing my mother prepare 100s of til pitha (a kind of traditional rice cake made with sesame and sugar), tel pitha (a traditional rice cake), and narikol laru (coconut balls). I would wait for her until late midnight, watch her prepare the delicacies wholeheartedly. I was always attracted to her way of preparing the coconut balls. She teaches me how delicately I must handle the preparation, a slight mistake and the balls would not take its desired shape. I would listen and watch her patiently, as she molds the balls. And apparently, I have applied a similar method while making this pudding. This is easy to make dessert recipe and consumes less time to prepare.

watermelon halwa, dessert recipe, watermelon pudding recipe, food photography, beautiful food photography

While I use to throw away the rind of watermelon every time, I choose to prepare something out of the inutile pieces (these were supposed to go right into the bin). After grinding to a good paste, I had decided to cook it the way my mother used to prepare the coconut balls, i.e., pour the mush directly to the pan and stir until the water dries up. After that, you can gradually add the other ingredients.

Here, I have also used some leftover red mesh of the watermelon that I had used for juice. You can skip that completely. Subsequently, I also made a few watermelon rind balls the next day. For making that, I applied a similar method of evaporating the excess water and adding a cup of roasted semolina. The rest of the steps remains the same apart from adding the liquid milk.

Watermelon Halwa Recipe

This is an easy to make watermelon halwa that is filled with nutrition and goodness of mik and nuts.
Prep Time10 minutes
Active Time25 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Indian
Keyword: dessert recipe, watermelon halwa, Watermelon recipe
Author: Madhuri Saikia

Equipment

  • Saucepan
  • Food Processor/ Grinder

Materials

  • 2 tbsp Vegetable oil, ghee, or butter
  • 1/2 piece Cubes of watermelon shell the inside green shell
  • 1 cup Nuts, raisin, berries of your choice
  • 1 piece Cardamom
  • 3 tbsp Powdered Milk
  • 1 cup Milk
  • 1/2 cup Sugar
  • 1 pinch Salt

Instructions

  • Peel off the outer green layer of the watermelon (You can use the inside red part for juices or other purposes)
  • Cut it into small cubes and add the pieces in a grinder.
  • Heat a pan and put the grinded paste to the pan and keep stiring.
  • Make sure to stir frequently, until the water dries up.
  • Now add the powdered milk and crushed cardamom.
  • Mix thoroughly so that no lumps are formed.
  • Now add the sugar and salt and blend it until the water evaporates.
  • Add the milk and crushed nuts and stir evenly.
  • Add the ghee or butter
  • Voila! Your watermelon halwa is ready. Serve hot with sprinkled nuts or seeds.

Make sure you cook the recipe in medium to low flame

    Will you make this recipe?

    Let me know how it turned out in the comments below. Or share a picture on your Instagram or Facebook and tag us.

    Keiko’s Japanese treat to the people of Guwahati

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    With Guwahati sprawling through the magical loops of nightlife, numerous establishments are adding to the growing competition. Chic parties, groovy music, and bustling eateries are adorning the city with their hip elements. One of such electric and happening place is the Keiko Ultra Lounge, a Japanese themed restaurant cum pub in Guwahati that is brimmed with surprises for its visitors.

    Keiko japanese restaurant in guwahati

    For someone looking out to snuggle cozy moments with oneself or with a partner without much hustle and shrilling music, Keiko is the place to be. It’s not much hassle finding this pub for it is situated on the busy road of Christian Basti’s Kamakhya Towers, near Sohum Shoppe.

    Let me take you inside the lounge

    Keiko japanese restaurant in guwahati
    Glimpse from the entrance

    As I walked in, a beautiful smile greeted me to the large lounge arranged in an elegant fashion. There were tall-large-short-comfy-loungy sitting arrangements spread across the area. Added, the industrial decor complimented the overall theme of the restaurant.

    Keiko japanese restaurant in guwahati
    The drinks bar counter of the restaurant

    As you approach, the smart balance of urban, psychedelic, and rustic ambiance will join to thrill you; and gradually cuddle you as you take your seat. Embraced by a mellow vibe, this is also an absolute place for all kinds of get-togethers, corporate dinners, or family occasions.

    From the menu

    The aroma of the herbs and spices paving its way from the kitchen is tempting enough to elevate one’s mood

    An array of choices- starters, soups, curry bowls, desserts, and quick-eats are arranged on the menu. However, for a Japanese food lover, Keiko has an assortment of succulent meals to devour. Ho wang tong soup, barbeque bao dimsum, tekka maki sushi, golden fried veg wasabi are few of the delectable picks among others. Besides, the pizza, pasta, and the sandwich section too hold a thick spread of fresh ingredients. 

    Keiko Japanese restaurant in Guwahati

    Keiko Japanese restaurant in Guwahati

    Keiko Japanese restaurant in Guwahati

    Another noteworthy section of the menu is the Bento Box and the Hot Pot. While Bento Box offers an “only delivery” option, Hot Pot makes the visitors cook its own food in the restaurant. The concept of Bento Box addresses the Japanese’s way of carrying a lunch box to the workplace that mostly consists of healthy meals. On the other hand, the Hot Pot part allows guests to choose its add-ons which are then put on the broth and placed on an induction. This is a popular eating habit across restaurants in Asia and Keiko is the first restaurant in Guwahati to adopt this culture.

    Why you should consider Keiko

    I have my own reasons to call this place amazing; for it gives me a café-like daze, a fine-dine restaurant, a loungy place with friends, and a go-gaga with food and drinks pub. If you want to experience food, music, and ambiance in one place, then Keiko should mark your list first.

    Keiko japanese restaurant in guwahati

    This is undoubtedly the only pub in the city where I can rely on great music, sumptuous food, and warm hospitality. Drooling over the munchies to shaking a leg to the cherry acoustic, this space has so much to offer.

    Well, these are my reasons to label this place amazingly-interesting. Let me know what are your favorites about Keiko in the comments below.

    Summary

    • Location: Ground Floor, Sri Kamakhya Towers, Christian Basti, Guwahati
    • Theme: Japanese
    • Cost for two800-1000
    • Kid-Friendly: Yes
    • Parking: Yes

    Pin it

    Keiko japanese restaurant in guwahati

     

    A new addition to the neighborhood: Rigbyz Café

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    Rigbyz Cafe and bistro
    A city that is bloomed with Mexican, Chinese, American, Cantonese, Korean and different other cafes, Rigbyz stirred as a good grace to the addition. An amalgamation of Mexican, American, and Indian, the café intends to cater to people of all age groups.

    Strategically located on Bhangagarh, Guwahati, Rigbyz reaches out to office goers as well as students. From quick bites to corporate meetings, the café has earned quite a number of eyeballs. For it is a comfy little brightly-lit space, drawing the attention of the passerby has turned to be a favorite thing of the cafe.

    Into the cafe

    Best cafe in Guwahati, Rigbyz cafe and bistro

    New incorporation into the neighborhood, Rigbyz Café opened its doors at the advent of autumn. As one walks in, the vibrant wall on the left decked with acrylic paintings on the plate is sure to enthrall the person.

    Co-owner Parshita Chowdhury is fascinated with colors. When she’s not occupied with any work, she loves to utilize her hours splattering on the canvas. The vivacious shades of her creation reflected on the wall are worth-admiring. Capture some abstract perspectives or some cute yet peppy detailing that define the bistro’s atmosphere.

    What’s in the menu

    Rigbyz Cafe and bistro

    A dribbling menu marks the presence of an array of pasta and pizza choice, a great variety of rice bowl options, a trail of sandwiches and burgers, and more. The bistro is designed for people with varied tastes; for it offers a series of quick bites preferences to an assortment of combos. To sparkle up the evenings, the menu announces its “sasta, sundar, tikaooo” part which narrates to a bunch of combos with coffee and tea.

    This café in Guwahati also offers plenty of possibilities for meals. Right from breakfast to dinner and some quick grabs in between, this is a full-flavored classic choice. The “sticky rice bowl” segment has a great variety of chicken and pork options to pick for a packed lunch or dinner. The “Pulled Pork Rice Bowl” is another exclusive choice by the cafe.

    Rigbyz cafe and bistro
    The best cafe in Guwahati for pork lovers

    However, for a pork fervent, Rigbyz has an exclusive number of dishes to tempt. Creamy smoked pork pasta, pulled pork rice bowl, and pork pizza is to mention a few among others. The carefully selected ingredients measure the zest and are seared to perfection. Furthermore, to enhance its flavor, the chefs make sure to pour love in every meal they serve.

    Hovering on budget and more

    Relatively, this café is quite budget-friendly. Whether you are a student with limited pocket bucks or have exhausted your monthly budget, Rigbyz still has plenty of options open for you. This is an apt place for someone who is searching for a space to work or have plans to schmooze with some new pals.

    • Cost for two: Rs. 300-400
    • Smoking / Outside sitting area: Yes
    • Location: Bhangagarh, Opposite Sohum Emporio

    10 Best Restro-Bars of Guwahati

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    Best retro bars of Guwahati

    Nightlife in Guwahati was shrouded in taboo for far too long until a string of restro bars, pubs, and lounges sprang up in the mid-2000s across the city, shattering age-old beliefs surrounding late-nights. The local populace that once frowned at the very idea of staying out late, especially after 7’ o clock in the evening, now welcomes the glitz and charm of a peppy night out in the Assam’s capital.

    Whether you’re looking for a place to burst out your stress or want to replenish your energy for the weekday, you have a whole lot of options to pick.

    Here are 10 of our favorites you should check out if you are clouded with confusion.

     

    Dine Way Platz: 

    Best Restro Bar in Guwahati- Dine Way Platz

    When in doubt, knock Dine Way Platz. Oh, you got me right. This place holds an abundance of glamor. Whether you’re looking for a quick coffee place, a lavish dinner date with your lover, a fancy hangout with your family, or an evening chill with your mates, Dine Way Platz is the answer. The warm ambiance and the perfectly stocked with spirit cocktails are the absolute cure to restore a worn-out day. Besides, they also host classic soft rock performances on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays for its customers. This family pub, with its multifarious ingredients in its crust, tends to bring and build a safe nightlife scene in the city.

    • Special Days: Friday, Saturday, Sunday- Band performances
    • What’s special in food:  Black Dal Makhani
    • Cost for two (Including alcohol): Rs. 1000/-
    • Kid-friendly: Yes

    Xtreme sports bar and Grill:

    Best Restro Bar in Guwahati- Dine Way Platz

    Amid their delectable desserts, stands smoothly and balanced cocktails that carry hues of fruity, nutty, and layered precision. This lavishly perky place is a bliss for every sports lover. Along with pool game, carom, table tennis, golf, and many others, you can also relish their assortment of Indian, Continental, Chinese, and Japanese cuisines. The restaurant believes in serving this generation with an exquisite space. Cautiously detailing everything- from a wooden floor which won’t, of course, make you uncomfortable grooving, to an extensive bar area, this place holds every charm to captivate its guests.

    • Special Days: Depends
    • What’s special in food:  Sushi and Pizza, buffet with a complimentary beer.
    • Cost for two (Including alcohol): Rs. 1200/-
    • Kid-friendly: Yes

    Bulls and Beers:

    You will always say how cozy and adorable this place is. Located in the heart of Guwahati, Bulls, and Beers has so much to offer its visitors. Besides providing a variety of flavors from across the globe, this dimly lit place has won over many hearts. Whether you are looking for an inexpensive place to dine-in with good food or want to grab a drink with your friends for some chill time, the place would love to welcome you. Furthermore, they also hold recognition for being the “First Bar Stock Exchange” of the city.

    • Special Days: Saturdays and Sundays- Band and DJ performances
    • What’s special in food:  Spicy Chilli Pork, Liver takatak
    • Cost for two (Including alcohol): Rs. 1000/-
    • Kid-friendly: No

    Kalita Spectrum:

    Regardless of whether you’re searching for a spot to work or schmooze with some new companions, Kalita Spectrum is an ideal place for all your hiccups. Acting as a fine-dine, a bistro, and a bar, this place is a conglomeration of flavors at its best. Oh, they even have a dedicated kitchen for pure vegetarian people. From finely baked desserts to handcrafted cocktails, you can experience a sumptuous feast without rooting out your wallet.

    • Special Days: No
    • What’s special in food:  Chicken Enchiladas, Kalita Spectrum Special Shot
    • Cost for two (Including alcohol): Rs. 1200/-
    • Kid-friendly: Yes

    Underdoggs Sports Bar and Grill:

    Best Restro Bar in Guwahati-underdoggs

    This place emits a rad vibe every time. An amalgamation of good food, great beer, groovy ambiance, and a range of games and sports to pep up the sporty spirit, Underdoggs is the place to dandle A perfect place if you are looking for an elegant dinner. The huge 40-inch screens along with projector screening of live matches are sure to give you a stadium feel. Also, don’t forget to try out their liquid buffet on Fridays. Burp!

    • Special Days: Wednesday- Ladies Night, Thursday- Bollywood Night, Friday- Hip Hop Night, Saturdays- Band and Gigs, Sunday- VDJ: English and Bollywood
    • What’s special in food:  Chicken Wings in 10 different sauces
    • Cost for two (Including alcohol): Rs. 1500/- to Rs. 2000/-
    • Kid-friendly: Yes (Until 7 pm)

    Retro town:

    Best Restro Bar in Guwahati-retro Town

    From cutlery to décor, everything is patterned in period style here. You won’t find many colors in the lounge but the open-air area will definitely steal your interest. “Food tastes bland here,” said no one ever. The menu is mostly inspired by Indian, Italian, and continental cuisines while music is stirred with various club genres. Do give their roasted prawns a try!

    • Special Days: DJ and Acoustic nights throughout the week
    • What’s special in food:  Juicy Roasted Chicken, Mamtazi Murg, Chicken Liver Fry
    • Cost for two (Including alcohol): Rs. 2000/-
    • Kid-friendly: No

    Urban Mantra:

    Best Restro Bar in Guwahati-urban mantra

    Serving the nightlife of the city dwellers since 2014, this restro lounge is a fun place to be around to catch up with your buddies and swirl to the grooves of classic rock. A restaurant by day and bar by night, you can hit up Urban Mantra at any time of the clock. Comparatively, this place is quite budget-friendly. Evenings here are mostly jam packed here. So, if you are looking for a table, you got to knock their doors early or ask them to book you a table.

    • Special Days: Friday, Saturday, Sunday: Band Performances
    • What’s special in food: Smoked pork
    • Cost for two (Including alcohol): Rs. 1000/-
    • Kid-friendly: No

    Dicey’s Garden:

    Picturesque walls, quirky ambiance, and vibrant lightening define Dicey’s Garden. Indian, Thai, Chinese, Italian, and Continental cuisines, prepared with the perfect amount of love and dedication are worth drooling. This spacious lounge, installed with low and high sitting arrangements is an excellent spot for a family lunch or a corporate cocktail dinner.

    • Special Days: Wednesday: Ladies’ Night Out, Friday: Page 3 nights, Saturday: Weekend Dark Nights, Sunday: The Sun Day Blazer
    • What’s special in food: 
    • Cost for two (Including alcohol): Rs. 1000/-
    • Kid-friendly: Yes (Until early evening)

    Madiza Ultra Lounge:

    While the lounge fragments its sitting area into different directions, you’re going love its ambiance- for its pleasant décor and softly played music during the day. So, if your mood swings to the edge of grabbing a drink during the day, this is absolutely your place. Tag a mate and celebrate your mood swings with few Bollywood and EDM commercial beats.

    • Special Days: Friday: Ladies Night, Sunday: Social Sunday Night
    • What’s special in food:  Crunchy Chicken, Angara Chicken, Mixed Sauce Pasta, Yong Chong Noodles
    • Cost for two (Including alcohol): Rs. 1200/-
    • Kid-friendly: Yes (Until 7 pm)

    Oriental Bistro:

    Best Restro Bar in Guwahati- Oriental Bistro

    As the name suggests, you get all things oriental here. When you need a good beer with awesome munchies, this bistro is all you need to satiate your gluttony. A subtly decorated area, juicy dim sum, and a happy tummy are all you need to sway your hectic day blues.

    • Special Days: No
    • What’s special in food: Sushi, Kimchi
    • Cost for two (Including alcohol): Rs. 1200/-
    • Kid-friendly: Yes

    Have you visited any of these? Let us know your favorite.

    Stories from the Kalita Spectrum Kitchen

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    tacos, Kalita Spectrum, Guwahati, ItalianKalita Spectrum Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato

    A rainy evening subsided the rising humidity of the day. Looks like fresh sheets of carpet have been flopped across streets and lanes. The old-tiring trees stretched and fluttered once again with the gentle breeze. Aha! A perfect evening to chomp some fries and coffee.

    As I scanned for a parking space, the distinctly lit branding of “Kalita Café” grasp my attention. I indicated toward the left to park my scooter. Lucky are those who find a space in G.S. Road (Guwahati) to park their vehicle. I was one, for the evening.

    I walked up the staircase, only to divert my attention to the exquisite looking glass doors of Kalita Spectrum, located in the same building. It was around 7 O’ clock. The restaurant was crowded and most of the tables were booked for dinner. As I scan for an empty seat, one from the staff guided me to a vacant table near the AC. Before slipping me the menu, a glass of aam panna followed by a plate of panipuri rested on my table.

     

    panipuri, Kalita Spectrum, Guwahati, Italian

     My previous craving for coffee and fries dwindled after a good scrutiny at the menu. Resisting Italian bite seemed painful. Hence, I settled with Chicken Bruschetta, Chicken Enchiladas, and Crispy Mexican Tacos. The waiter suggested cocktails or mocktails blend great with Italian, not merely coffee.

    Kalita Spectrum, Guwahati, Italian

    Phew! I had to ditch coffee for a Malibu Beach. Oh, I didn’t regret at all. The tall glass sparked an impression of a smoothie bursting with flavors. A decent blend of pineapple, cream, and berries gladly embraced my sweet buds.

    Kalita Spectrum, Guwahati, Italian

    Crammed with creamy chicken, olives, onions, tomatoes, bell pepper, basil and other herbs, Chicken Bruschetta was charming. The firm base of the toast quite handsomely complimented the soft and cheesy concoction.

    Kalita Spectrum, Guwahati, Italian, tacos

    Tortilla and Tacos here are one of the finest I have tasted in Guwahati. The creamy and sour salsa dip balanced the cheesy zest quite delicately.

    Kalita Spectrum, Guwahati, Italian, Chicken Enchilidas

    While there were few hits and misses in the service corner, a thumbs up for an exquisite essence-filled evening and friendly indulgence with Italian flavors.

     

    A Happy-Tummy Day with Cheese and Chicken

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    foodies world, rehabari, guwahati, pasta in guwahati

     

    Foodie's World Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato

    For years now, Dominos and Pizza Hut has been ruling the taste buds of Guwahatians when comes to feasting one’s Italian desires. While a smattering of restaurants and cafes could console those peering needs, quick-eat outlets like Foodies World have grabbed the interests of people promptly.

    I had been here before, once for pizza and again for a quick drink. This eatery stares at me every day, on my way and back from the office. I make sure to get an insight into its inside, every day until my car would take a right to the small lane few meters ahead. I often see people feeding their Instagram and Facebook stories with tales about snacks, pizza, and pasta of this joint.

    Heaven falls in my table

    There is this peculiar thing about my workplace. It is being surrounded by oodles of fast food and quick-bite chains- all of them providing lowly food, is expensive, and is not quite service friendly. Thus, without much choices left, I scoff a plate of ghughuni on the roadside, at times (Perhaps better than chomping heaps of refined flour).

    foodies world, rehabari, guwahati, pasta in guwahati

    And such was this third bump at Foodies World. As I wait for my Creamy Fondue Non-veg Baked Pasta and Chicken strips to arrive, I engage myself on the familiar walls that always provoke me to stand for a picture.

    A tantalizing gust of air conveyed a note that a creamy-cheesy plate of pasta will arrive in no time.

    Wh For years now, Dominos and Pizza Hut has been ruling the taste buds of Guwahatians when comes to feasting one’s Italian desires. While a smattering of restaurants and cafes could console those peering needs, quick-eat outlets like Foodies World have grabbed the interests of people promptly. I had been here before, once for pizza and again for a quick drink. This eatery stares at me every day, on my way and back from the office. I make sure to get an insight into its inside, every day until my car would take a right to the small lane few meters ahead. I often see people feeding their Instagram and Facebook stories with tales about snacks, pizza, and pasta of this joint. Heaven falls in my table There is this peculiar thing about my workplace. It is being surrounded by oodles of fast food and quick-bite chains- all of them providing lowly food, is expensive, and is not quite service friendly. Thus, without much choices left, I scoff a plate of ghughuni on the roadside, at times (Perhaps better than chomping heaps of refined flour). And such was this third bump at Foodies World. As I wait for my Creamy Fondue Non-veg Baked Pasta and Chicken strips to arrive, I engage myself on the familiar walls that always provoke me to stand for a picture. A tantalizing gust of air conveyed a note that a creamy-cheesy plate of pasta will arrive in no time. I dig deeper into the pasta, trying to break through the protected shield of cheese, likely melting in its own way. Graciously opening up to its guests, the pizza bowl exhibited a perfect blend of cheese and meaty texture, generously mingling with the penne. Moments later followed a tall glass of Masala Pepsi accompanied by Chicken strips. Not quite like the chicken strips one finds in KFC, contrary, holds more crispiness and less visibility of oil. I assure, you will never be heartbroken and or get a drill in your pockets. Soft and “more” juicy chicken bites will wave all the smiles back home.

     

    I shove my spoon deeper into the pasta, trying to break through the protected shield of cheese, likely melting in its own way. Graciously opening up to its guests, the pizza bowl exhibited a perfect blend of cheese and meaty texture, generously mingling with the penne. Pure delight!

    Moments later, a tall glass of Masala Pepsi and a Cappuccino, accompanied by Chicken strips followed.

     

    foodies world, rehabari, guwahati, pasta in guwahati

    Not quite like the chicken strips one finds in KFC, contrary, holds more crispiness and less visibility of oil.

    foodies world, rehabari, guwahati, pasta in guwahatiI assure, you will never be heartbroken and or get a drill in your pockets. Soft and “more” juicy chicken bites will wave all the smiles back home.

     

    A summer time madness at 11th Avenue

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    11th Avenue Cafe Bistro Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato

    Thai green curry pasta, 11th Avenue, Cafe in guwahati, Best cafe in guwahatiI skip my breakfast and settled for a tall ice-cold glass of watermelon juice. Summers have become awful in Guwahati. I cannot even devour my favorite cappuccino or an awakening masala tea. Sigh!

    Smoothies and juices have made my buds bland, sunscreens don’t work, damn! Why can’t winters stay forever?

    “You hate winters as well, remember?” Prasanta poked.

    As he gets ready for his office, I decide to switch off all my communicating devices and lie flat on the floor. I crashed, mulling over where to sabotage my fatigue; only to wake up at the scream from my tummy.

    But sadly, the gloomy fridge has only butter and mayonnaise to chomp. And going to the kitchen means shoving myself into an oven. Instead of getting baked, dining out seems a better idea, and 11th Avenue, an intelligent one. Not just because they cook wonderfully flaky crust pizza but also serves the purpose of brimming one’s gut with contentment.

    A heavenly delight awaits in the new menu

    My tummy is screaming louder than the honking horns. I don’t know if Guwahati’s rise in temperature is directly proportional to its congested traffic. As I scroll my Instagram feed, I stumble up a post that describes how succulent their tortillas were. Tortillas, oh! I can die for a good bite.

    The traffic blink green. I park my scooter and raced inside the café. Something is different. I gawk, watching the menu parade with its new makeover in every table, proudly. And I watch her flaunting and getting hold of people’s interest.

    11th Avenue menu

    It is now my turn to appraise her.

    Whoa!

    TORTILLA.

    My thrill jumps in joy. While I wished for Thai Green Curry Pasta, my Tortilla tooth was seeking Roast Chicken Tortilla. Hence, a nod for both.

     

     

     

     

    Laughter is brightest where food is best

    Waiting for food to arrive is probably one of the world’s difficult tasks. Phew! I could barely wait for my order to walk from the kitchen.

    About 20 minutes later, my order walked in. The Thai Green Curry Pasta, escorted by two pieces of garlic bread, rests elegantly on the white plate. My pasta plate looks gorgeous.

    thai green curry pasta

    It boasts a blend of mellow yet a robust smack of its varied spices. The recipe embraces an assortment of ingredients like coconut paste, vegetables, spaghetti, chicken, and Thai sauce.

    tortilla

    The Tortilla, on the other hand, recounts a superior touch of taste and texture. Besides, the chicken bites were ladened with crispy and soft chicken sautéed in aromatic spices. Crumble of tomatoes garnished with chives and cheese added a refined feeling to the crunchy corn base. The sour cream and salsa dips, on the other hand, were goodness added to the glory.

    Contentment contained and restored

    While the service is friendly, they seem to have sauteed their food a bit “more” gently. I thought my order lost its way. 😀 But it was worth the wait. I was literally lost, amid the lush Thai Green Curry Pasta and Chicken Tortilla.

    Post Script: The new menu has a number of tongue-teasing cuisines to munch on. Until I hit here for some Lamb Bolognese and Ramen Noodles next time, keep supporting for my next review.

     

    Let Your Egg Coffee Do The Talking Tonight

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    egg coffee recipe

    egg coffee recipe
    Source: Huffington Post

    I wasn’t a caffeine person but fate intended to weave a new love story with coffee. I accepted. A surprising obsession grew, stronger each day. Primarily because, my coffee has its own set of styles- always hot and smells good, enough to lure me every time. And when I narrated my aromatic tale to my coffee buds, it started demanding me to delve deeper and explore its diverse features.

    Well, that’s how I bumped into Vietnamese Egg Coffee. At first, a speck of disgust blew past me.

    “EGG COFFEE? Who drinks that?”

    Probably this will be the first non-veg coffee of my life.

    A series of unfortunate events

    I appreciate my refrigerator. It carries all the load at such a tender age. “Awesome, I have four eggs.” Next was to knock on my neighbor’s door for milkmaid.

    Whoa! My ingredients are all set. Time to embark on a new journey with coffee. But egg coffee was obstinate to shake hands with me. A failed attempt. Followed by two more unsuccessful shots.

    Vietnamese egg coffee

    I lost all hope. Sigh! A glass of sadness, disappointment, and despair stared at me. I drank it all. Burp!

    The fruit of hard work is sweet

    I woke up drowsy, as usual. To eat the leftover biryani from last night was the first thought to pop up that morning. Second, to amend the mess. After much contemplation and research, often landing in peculiar theories, I finally grasped that air bubbles are what can make the mixture float. Voila! It worked. Finally, I could make it float.

    Vietnamese egg coffeeGive a nod to Egg Coffee. It is sweet, bitter, creamy, mellow, and awesome. Here is the complete Vietnamese Egg Coffee recipe.

    Things you will need:

    • Milkmaid
    • 2 eggs
    • Coffee beans (Grounded)
    • A large glass bowl
    • A glass
    • 2 forks
    • Vanilla essence (optional) *I haven’t used it in my mixture

    The Method

     

    Vietnamese egg coffee

    1. Separate the egg yolk from its white in the bowl.Vietnamese egg coffee

    2. Add two tablespoons of milkmaid in the same bowl.Vietnamese egg coffee

    3. Merge two forks with tape. You can also use a hand blender or a frother as per convenience and availability.Vietnamese egg coffee

    4. Time to whisk. But here lies the real game. A slight mistake can mess up your whole recipe. So be careful while whisking your egg mixture. Make sure it contains enough air bubbles.

      I had to whisk it for about 10 minutes to make it look like this. In the meantime, brew your coffee. For consistent strength, I used Lavazza beans. You can use beans as per your taste.Vietnamese egg coffee

    5. Once done, pour the brew into the glass. And then, the egg mixture gradually.egg coffee

    6. Congratulation, you have successfully made yourself a glass of happiness.

    Don’t forget to share this recipe in your circle.

    Have a query? Don’t hesitate to ask. I shall be happy to guide you toward a perfect cup/glass.