Refresh your day with 5 flavourful infused water ideas

Image  by Nawalescape from Pixabay

Infused water ideas

Let’s face it, plain water—while delicious and oh so good for you—can get a little boring. But infusing your water means you can switch up your flavours whenever you like, keeping your H20 game extra fresh.

Adding your flavour combos to your insulated water bottle or cup is also a good choice as it lets you top up your water and re-use those delicious ingredients. Plus, it’ll keep it all cool as a cucumber. 

So get your favourite cup ready to go, it’s time to get onto some recipes!

1. Citrus Zing Explosion

Infusing your water with citrus isn’t just flavourful, it’s good for you too. Citrus fruits, like lemons, limes, oranges and grapefruit are packed full of vitamin C, helping keep our skin and bones nice and healthy. Plus, lemon and grapefruit can even help with digestion, so it’s great to sip on around meal times.

Citrus fruits are also delicious to add to other flavour combos, like with berries, mint or even rosemary. Just make sure you pick your drinkware carefully as lemons, limes and oranges can absorb into some plastics and materials. Your best bet is a reusable cup, as it keeps the flavours where they should be—in your water. 

 How to make citrus-infused water

1. Add ice to a reusable cup. 
2. Slice up half a lemon and half a lime, before adding to the cup.
3. Gently rub a mint leaf between your fingers and put on top of the fruit slices.
4. Fill the remainder of the cup with water.
5. Carefully stir and let rest for about an hour.
6. Head on down to flavour town.

 Image by Photo Mix from Pixabay 

2.Berry Bliss Medley

Berries are great to use as a base for infused water as they can either add sweet or tart flavours to suit your mood. Most berries will be a little more tart if picked before being entirely ripe, with blackberries, cranberries, raspberries and gooseberries known to have a little bite to them. Of course, strawberries, blueberries and cherries are the sweeter members of the berry family, so they’re ideal for quenching that sweet tooth.

The other benefit to adding berries to your water (besides the incredible flavours) is all the extra antioxidants you’ll get throughout the day. So while your taste buds are having a party, your hair, skin and nails will be thanking you too.

How to make berry-infused water

1. In a reusable cup, add in a small handful each of sliced strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and blackberries.
2. Add in a couple of mint leaves.
3. Using a muddler or the end of a rolling pin, lightly muddle and mix around the berries and mint leaves.
4. Add in a handful of ice cubes.
5. Top with water, mix and enjoy.

 3. Cucumber Mint Refresh

Cucumber is one of the most hydrating fruits and vegetables, made up of 96% water. So, not only is this vitamin-packed vegetable going to add so much flavour to your infused water, it’s also going to be a hydrating snack once you’re done drinking! 

 As for mint, it’s great for calming the mind and body, as well as the stomach. Adding cucumber and mint together is such a flavourful treat, and has the added benefit of making you feel more relaxed—almost as if you’re on a holiday.

 How to make cucumber and mint-infused water

1. In the bottom of a reusable cup, muddle a small handful of mint leaves.
2. Add in a quarter of a sliced cucumber.
3. Throw in some ice cubes and top with ice-cold water.
4. Gently stir and enjoy your new favourite beverage.

4. Tropical Escape Infusion

Food and drinks have the power to transport us to faraway places and distant memories. A tropical escape infusion is a way to add a little touch of holiday magic to your day with every sip. The combination of pineapple, mango and papaya is delightfully punchy and sweet, and can be infused overnight for an even more powerful flavour bomb.

On top of the flavourful surprise, you’re also getting a good healthy hit of vitamins. Papaya is renowned for its high level of antioxidants, while pineapple is known for being anti-inflammatory and mango has loads of immunity-boosting nutrients. 

How to make tropical-infused water

1. Skin and slice the pineapple, mango and papaya into small chunks.
2. Add the fruit into the bottom of a cup with a handful of ice.
3. Top with water and stir to combine.
4. Infuse overnight for the most flavour, or serve immediately to begin your tropical retreat.

BONUS TIP: Freeze mint leaves in ice cube trays with water to add to your drink for a refreshing twist.

 5. Herbal Serenity Sip

Herbal tea is a great way to unwind at the end of a long day. But did you know herbs make for delicious infused water too? 

Herbs (like rosemary and basil) and floral botanicals (like lavender) add a surprising, yet tasty, flavour to water. They can be combined with other flavours to shake up the recipe, or on their own for a relaxing and hydrating drink. Many herbs are also known for their revitalising properties, like rosemary for helping ease headaches and basil for being anti-inflammatory. Plus, lavender is a relaxing slice of heaven just to smell. 

How to make herbal-infused water

1. In a reusable cup, add a few slices of lemon.
2. Rub a sprig of rosemary between your hands before adding to the cup.
3. Add a small spoon of honey.
4. Fill the cup with water and ice.
5. Gently stir in a lavender stem.
6. Let the aromas transport you.

There are endless infused water ideas you can play with to find your favourites. Start with these recipes and try mixing them up or adding in your own favourite ingredients. The more you try, the better you’ll become at creating your own new flavour sensations!

 

Staying hydrated in hot weather is crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being. Adequate hydration helps regulate body temperature, supports proper organ function, and enhances cognitive function. Opting for drinks like infused waters with refreshing fruits or herbs, healthy fruit teas, and herbal teas provides hydration without excessive sugar or caffeine. These alternatives not only quench thirst effectively but also offer additional nutrients and antioxidants, making them ideal choices for staying cool and hydrated during scorching weather.

Some drinks you may like are:

Virgin Strawberry Mojito

Iced Orange and Apple Tea

 

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Easy Mango Bhapa Doi -Bengali Baked Yogurt

What is Bhapa Doi?

Mango Bhapa Doi is a heavenly dessert that hails from the culinary treasure trove of Bengal, India. This delightful treat combines the richness of yogurt with the tropical sweetness of mangoes, creating a harmonious symphony of flavour's.

Origins and Tradition

Bhapa Doi, which translates to "steamed yogurt," has been a traditional Bengali dessert for generations. Its roots trace back to rural Bengal, where simple ingredients were transformed into exquisite delights. Over time, variations emerged, including the beloved Mango Bhapa Doi, adding a seasonal twist to this timeless classic.

The Essence of Mango

One cannot discuss Mango Bhapa Doi without highlighting the star ingredient: mangoes. Known as the king of fruits, mangoes lend their vibrant colour and luscious sweetness to this dessert. Whether pureed or diced, mangoes infuse every spoonful of Bhapa Doi with their irresistible flavour, elevating it to a new level of indulgence.

What type of mango is best for this recipe?

I highly recommend the Kesar mango or Alphonso but any mango that is available to you will work equally well

How to make Bhapa Doi?

Creating Mango Bhapa Doi is an easy and simple recipe to create with three main ingredients only.. Fresh yogurt is blended with condensed milk, and mango puree, creating a creamy base. This mixture is then delicately seasoned with ground cardamom and saffron milk and steamed, allowing the flavours to meld together while retaining the dessert's silky texture. The result? A decadent treat that melts in your mouth with each spoonful.

Individual portions or one larger bowl?

The Bhapa Doi can be made in individual portions, or one large bowl . there is no right or wrong way however just make sure the bowl used is heat proof and will withstand being placed in the steamer.

What type of yoghurt is best for Bhapa Doi?

Personally I recommend full fat thick and creamy Greek yoghurt. The authentic Bhapa Doi is make with hung Curd also known as strained yoghurt where water is drained from the yogurt  by placing it in a muslin cloth and allowing the water to drain out.. Full cream yoghurt works best for this recipe.

Variations and Innovations

While the traditional recipe remains cherished, modern twists on Mango Bhapa Doi have emerged. Some incorporate cardamom for an aromatic touch, while others add nuts or saffron for added decadence. Vegan versions swap dairy for coconut milk, catering to diverse dietary preferences without compromising on taste.

Can I make Bhapa Doi with vegan yoghurt?

Although you can make Bhapa Doi with vegan yoghurt, you will get the taste but the texture will be compromised.

Serving and Enjoyment

Mango Bhapa Doi is best enjoyed chilled, garnished with slivers of almonds, pistachio and fruit.  Its creamy texture and tropical flavour make it the perfect finale to any meal or a refreshing treat on a hot summer day. Whether served in elegant bowls or humble earthenware, each spoonful is a reminder of Bengal's culinary expertise.

Conclusion

In the world of desserts, Mango Bhapa Doi stands out as a testament to Bengal's rich culinary heritage. Its simple yet exquisite flavours capture the essence of the region, making it a beloved treat for all occasions. Whether you're savouring a traditional recipe or exploring innovative variations, Mango Bhapa Doi is sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.

 There are many sweet dishes from around the world made with yoghurt. Why not check out this, Coconut shrikand with strawberries and Srikand

 

If you make this recipe I would love to hear your feedback . Please share them in the comments below. 

If you would like to see the video of the recipe check the full recipe on  my you tube.

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Aloo Tikkis -Spicy Potato Cakes

 

Origin of Aloo Tikkis

Aloo Tikki, a beloved Indian street food, traces its roots to the streets of North India, particularly Delhi and Uttar Pradesh. It emerged as a popular snack in the bustling markets and roadside stalls of these regions, capturing the essence of Indian culinary culture.

Ingredients and Preparation

To create the flavourful Aloo Tikki, boiled potatoes are mashed to a smooth consistency, infused with a tantalizing blend of spices. These spices include ginger and chili paste for heat, turmeric for color, a dash of lemon juice for tanginess, and a subtle hint of ground cinnamon and cloves for depth of flavour. Corn flour acts as a binding agent, ensuring the mixture holds together.

Shaping and Coating

After seasoning the potato mixture to perfection, shape it into golf ball-sized portions and gently flatten to form round patties. Coat the patties with breadcrumbs to achieve a satisfying crunch, creating a crispy outer layer when fried. This coating not only adds texture but also seals in the flavours, creating a delightful contrast with the soft, spiced potato filling.

Cooking Process

The Aloo Tikki is shallow-fried in hot oil until it achieves a golden-brown hue, ensuring each bite is crispy on the outside and irresistibly tender on the inside. The frying process infuses the patties with a rich aroma, enticing passers-by with its mouth-watering scent.

The best potato variety for making Aloo Tikkis

 For making Aloo Tikki, the best potato to use is one with a starchy and floury texture, as it yields a soft and fluffy interior when mashed. Cooks commonly choose Russet potatoes, also known as baking potatoes, due to their high starch content. They have a dry and mealy texture, making them ideal for mashing and binding the ingredients together without becoming too watery.

Alternatively, Yukon Gold potatoes can also work well for Aloo Tikki. While they are less starchy than Russet potatoes, they still offer a creamy texture when cooked and mashed, resulting in a slightly denser but still delicious Aloo Tikki.

Ultimately, your choice of potato depends on personal preference and availability. Ensure to select potatoes that are firm, smooth-skinned, and free from blemishes for the best results in your Aloo Tikki.

Elevating Your Aloo Tikki: Exploring Creative Varieties and Delicious Fillings

When it comes to transforming the humble aloo tikki into a culinary delight, the possibilities are endless. By infusing creativity into your recipe, you can take this traditional Indian snack to new heights. One way to do so is by incorporating a range of vibrant ingredients. Experiment with adding spinach puree for a burst of green goodness, or beetroot puree for a delightful hint of sweetness. For added texture and flavour, consider mixing in coarsely ground peas and finely shredded carrots, elevating both the taste and visual appeal of your tikkis.

But why stop there? The magic of aloo tikki lies not only in its exterior but also in its potential for hidden surprises. Imagine biting into a crispy outer layer only to discover a creamy filling waiting to tantalize your taste buds. Embrace the art of stuffing your tikkis with indulgent treats such as gooey cheese or rich paneer. The contrast of textures and flavours will elevate your aloo tikki experience to a whole new level, leaving you craving more with every bite.

Serving Aloo Tikkis

Typically, servers dish out piping hot Aloo Tikki straight from the frying pan, pairing it with a side of tangy and spicy green coriander and mint chutney. This vibrant chutney refreshes the palate with its zesty kick, enhancing the flavours of the Aloo Tikki. 

There is no correct time to enjoy the delicious Aloo Tikkis. You can eat them for breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner and teatime snack. They are also delicious cold for picnics and including them in lunch boxes.

Aloo Tikkis and Wine pairing

For an unforgettable culinary experience, I highly recommend pairing your delectable Aloo Tikki with a glass of chilled Barefoot California Moscato. This delightful wine boasts an expressive and fruity profile that harmonizes effortlessly with the bold flavours of the Aloo Tikki.

The aromatic spices infused in the Aloo Tikki find their perfect match in the sweet and refreshing acidity of the Moscato. As you savour each bite of the crispy tikki, the wine's notes of ripe fruits and floral undertones accentuate the dish's complexity, creating a symphony of flavours on your palate.

Barefoot California Moscato isn't just any wine – it's a brilliantly versatile choice that complements a wide range of cuisines. Whether enjoyed on its own, alongside cheese and fruit, or as a companion to Asian dishes, this Moscato never fails to impress. Its versatility makes it an ideal partner for the diverse flavour's of Aloo Tikki, enhancing every aspect of the dining experience.

So, the next time you indulge in the aromatic and spicy delights of Aloo Tikki, elevate your culinary journey by sipping on a glass of chilled Barefoot California Moscato. Together, they create a perfect harmony of flavours that will leave your taste buds longing for more.

Check out this recipe video for the Green Coriander Chutney

Enjoying the Delightful Treat

I hope you enjoy making this delicious Aloo Tikkis. With its irresistible blend of spices and textures, Aloo Tikki is more than just a snack—it's an experience. Whether you enjoy them as a quick bite on the go, or savour it leisurely for a delicious brunch with some chilled California Moscato with friends and family, each bite of Aloo Tikki transports the palate to the bustling streets of India, where culinary delights await at every corner. 

If you create the recipe please do share your thoughts in the comments below.

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