Monzoors Kitchen- A Food Blog With Perfect Recipes

Fourth of July Flag Cake Recipe Servings: 12-16 Prep Time: 30 minutes Cook Time: 30 minutes Cooling Time: 1 hour Ingredients For the Cake: 2½ cups all-purpose flour 2½ teaspoons baking powder ½ teaspoon salt 1 cup unsalted butter, softened 2 cups sugar 4 large eggs 1 tablespoon vanilla extract 1 cup whole milk For the Frosting: 2 cups heavy whipping cream ½ cup powdered sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract For Decoration: 1½ cups fresh blueberries 2½ cups sliced strawberries Instructions 1. Make the Cake Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla. Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with milk, until combined. Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool completely. 2. Prepare the Frosting Beat heavy crea...

A vegetarian version of sloppy joes replaces ground beef with plant-based alternatives like lentils, mushrooms, or a mix of vegetables. Here's a basic outline of the recipe: Ingredients : Base: 1 cup cooked lentils (or crumbled tofu or plant-based ground meat). Vegetables: Finely chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauce: Tomato paste, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce (vegan-friendly), mustard, and a splash of vinegar for tanginess. Seasoning: Paprika, chili powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Serving: Serve on toasted buns with optional toppings like pickles or vegan cheese. Steps : 1. Sauté: Cook onions, peppers, and garlic until softened. 2. Combine: Add lentils or alternative protein and cook with seasonings. 3. Simmer: Stir in the sauce ingredients and let everything simmer for 5-10 minutes until thickened. 4. Assemble: Scoop onto buns and serve warm.

  Kale Caesar Salad Recipe Servings: 4-6 Prep Time: 15 minutes Ingredients For the Salad: 1 large bunch of kale (curly or lacinato), stems removed and leaves chopped 1 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade) ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese For the Dressing: 1 large egg yolk (or 2 tablespoons mayonnaise for a no-egg version) 1 garlic clove, minced or grated 2 anchovy fillets (or 1 teaspoon anchovy paste) 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce ⅓ cup olive oil Salt and pepper, to taste Instructions 1. Prepare the Kale Wash the kale thoroughly, remove the stems, and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces. Place the kale in a large bowl and massage it with your hands for 1-2 minutes to soften the texture. 2. Make the Dressing In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk, garlic, anchovies, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking to create a creamy emulsion. Season wi...

Baby Back Ribs Recipe Servings: 4-6 Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 2.5–3 hours (oven) or 6–8 hours (slow cooker) Rest Time: 10 minutes Ingredients For the Ribs: 2 racks of baby back ribs (about 3-4 pounds total) 1 tablespoon olive oil Dry Rub: 2 tablespoons brown sugar 1 tablespoon smoked paprika 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon onion powder 1 teaspoon chili powder 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon black pepper ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat) For Basting : 1 cup barbecue sauce (homemade or store-bought) Instructions 1. Prepare the Ribs Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs. Use a knife to loosen a corner, then pull it off with a paper towel for a better grip. 2. Apply the Dry Rub In a small bowl, mix all the dry rub ingredients. Pat the ribs dry with paper towels, then rub them with olive oil. Generously coat the ribs with the dry rub, pressing it into the meat for maximum flavor. 3. Wrap and Bake Place the ribs on a large sheet o...

Pulled Pork Sandwiches Recipe Servings: 8-10 Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 6-8 hours (slow cooker) or 3-4 hours (oven) Ingredients For the Pulled Pork: 3-4 pounds pork shoulder (or pork butt) 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 large onion, sliced 3 garlic cloves, minced 1 cup barbecue sauce (plus extra for serving) ½ cup chicken or beef broth ¼ cup apple cider vinegar 2 tablespoons brown sugar 1 tablespoon smoked paprika 1 tablespoon chili powder 1 teaspoon cumin 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon onion powder 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon black pepper For the Sandwiches: 8-10 brioche or hamburger buns Coleslaw (optional but recommended) Pickles or pickled onions (optional) Extra barbecue sauce for drizzling Instructions 1. Prepare the Pork Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. Rub the pork with smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. 2. Sear the Pork (Optional) Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork on all...

Classic Chili Recipe Servings: 6-8 Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 1-2 hours (or longer for deeper flavor) Ingredients Base Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 large onion, diced 3 garlic cloves, minced 1 medium green bell pepper, diced 1 medium red bell pepper, diced 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey (or a mix) 1 pound ground pork or sausage (optional) Spices and Seasonings: 2 tablespoons chili powder 1 tablespoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon smoked paprika ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat) 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste) ½ teaspoon black pepper Liquids and Add-Ins: 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juices) 1 (14-ounce) can crushed tomatoes 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste 1½ cups beef or chicken broth (adjust for desired thickness) 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed (optional) Optional Garnishes: Shredded cheese Sour cream Diced green ...

Homemade Breakfast Burritos Recipe Servings: 4 Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 20 minutes Ingredients For the Burritos: 4 large flour tortillas (10-12 inches) 6 large eggs ¼ cup milk ½ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon pepper 1 cup cooked breakfast sausage, bacon, or diced ham 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mix) 1 cup diced vegetables (bell peppers, onions, spinach, etc.) 1 cup cooked hash browns or diced potatoes 1 tablespoon butter or cooking oil Optional Toppings/Sides: Salsa or pico de gallo Sour cream Guacamole or sliced avocado Hot sauce Instructions 1. Cook the Filling Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add butter or oil. Sauté the diced vegetables until softened (about 3-4 minutes). Remove and set aside. In the same skillet, cook the sausage, bacon, or ham until fully cooked. Drain excess grease if necessary. 2. Scramble the Eggs In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture into the skillet and cook over medium heat, stirring gen...

  Avocado Toast Recipe Servings: 2 Prep Time: 5 minutes Cook Time: 5 minutes Ingredients 2 slices of bread (sourdough, whole grain, or your favorite type) 1 large ripe avocado ½ teaspoon lemon or lime juice Salt, to taste Pepper, to taste Optional toppings: 1 soft-boiled or poached egg Cherry tomatoes, halved Crumbled feta or goat cheese Red pepper flakes Everything bagel seasoning Fresh herbs (cilantro, parsley, or chives) Instructions 1. Prepare the Bread Toast the bread slices to your desired level of crispiness. 2. Mash the Avocado Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a small bowl. Mash with a fork until smooth or slightly chunky. Stir in the lemon or lime juice, salt, and pepper. 3. Assemble the Toast Spread the mashed avocado evenly over the toasted bread slices. 4. Add Toppings (Optional) Top with a poached or soft-boiled egg for extra protein. Add cherry tomatoes, cheese, or seasoning for additional flavor. 5. Serve Immediately Enjoy as a quick ...

Classic Buttermilk Pancakes Recipe Servings: 4-6 (about 12 pancakes) Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 20 minutes Ingredients 2 cups all-purpose flour 2 tablespoons granulated sugar 2 teaspoons baking powder 1 teaspoon baking soda ½ teaspoon salt 2 cups buttermilk 2 large eggs ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted (plus extra for greasing the pan) 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional) Instructions 1. Mix the Dry Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. 2. Prepare the Wet Ingredients In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined. 3. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently stir until just combined. (It’s okay if the batter is slightly lumpy—overmixing can make the pancakes tough.) 4. Heat the Pan Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease with butter or cooking spray. 5. Cook the Pancakes Pour ...

Black Bean Burgers Recipe These flavorful black bean burgers are a satisfying, plant-based alternative perfect for grilling, pan-frying, or baking. Ingredients: 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed) 1/2 cup finely chopped onion 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro or parsley 1 egg (or 1 flax egg for vegan: 1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) 1 teaspoon chili powder 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder Salt and pepper, to taste 2 tablespoons olive oil, for cooking Optional Add-ins: 1/4 cup corn kernels 1/4 cup shredded cheese (optional, for non-vegan) Instructions: 1. Mash the Beans: In a large bowl, mash the black beans with a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth, leaving some chunks for texture. 2. Mix the Ingredients: Add the breadcrumbs, onion, cilantro or parsley, egg (or flax egg), chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Th...

Hearty Lentil Soup Recipe This comforting and nutritious lentil soup is packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for a satisfying meal. Ingredients: 1 cup dried lentils (green or brown, rinsed and drained) 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 medium onion, finely chopped 2 carrots, diced 2 celery stalks, diced 3 garlic cloves, minced 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth 1 bay leaf Salt and pepper, to taste 1-2 cups fresh spinach or kale (optional) Juice of 1 lemon (optional, for brightness) Instructions: 1. Prepare the Base: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened. 2. Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant. 3. Add Tomatoes and Broth: Add the diced tomatoes with the...

Homemade Pickles Recipe These crisp and tangy homemade pickles are easy to make and perfect for snacking, sandwiches, or salads. This recipe uses a simple refrigerator pickling method. Ingredients: For the Pickles: 4-5 small cucumbers (kirby or pickling cucumbers, about 1 pound) 2 garlic cloves, peeled and smashed 1 teaspoon black peppercorns 1 teaspoon mustard seeds 1 teaspoon dill seeds or 2-3 fresh dill sprigs 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice) For the Brine: 1 cup white vinegar 1 cup water 1 tablespoon sea salt (non-iodized) 1 tablespoon granulated sugar Instructions: 1. Prepare the Cucumbers: Wash the cucumbers thoroughly. Slice them into rounds, spears, or leave them whole, depending on your preference. 2. Sterilize the Jar: Clean a 16-ounce glass jar (or two smaller jars) with hot, soapy water or run it through the dishwasher. 3. Pack the Jar: Add the garlic, peppercorns, mustard seeds, dill seeds (or sprigs), and red pepper flakes (if using) to the jar. Pack t...

Traditional Kimchi Recipe Kimchi is a spicy, tangy Korean fermented vegetable dish packed with probiotics and flavor. Here's a simple yet authentic recipe to make your own at home! Ingredients: Vegetables: 1 medium napa cabbage (about 2 pounds) 1/4 cup sea salt (non-iodized) 4-5 radishes (sliced thin, optional) 4 green onions (cut into 1-inch pieces) 1 medium carrot (julienned, optional) Kimchi Paste: 5-6 garlic cloves (minced or grated) 1-inch piece ginger (grated) 1 small onion (grated or finely minced) 3 tablespoons Korean chili flakes (gochugaru) (adjust to taste) 2 tablespoons fish sauce (or soy sauce for vegan) 1 tablespoon sugar 1/4 cup water Instructions: 1. Prepare the Cabbage: Cut the napa cabbage lengthwise into quarters, then chop into bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, sprinkle the salt over the cabbage, tossing to coat evenly. Let it sit for 1-2 hours, turning the cabbage every 30 minutes. The cabbage will wilt and release water. 2. Rinse and Drain: After salting, ri...

Kombucha Sauerkraut Recipe This kombucha-fermented sauerkraut is tangy, probiotic-rich, and perfect for gut health. Using kombucha as a starter speeds up fermentation and adds a unique flavor twist. Ingredients: 1 medium head of green cabbage (about 2 pounds) 1 tablespoon sea salt (non-iodized) 1/4 cup raw, unflavored kombucha Optional Add-ins: 1 teaspoon caraway seeds, shredded carrots, or thinly sliced apples Equipment: A large mixing bowl A mason jar or fermenting crock A weight to press down the cabbage (a small jar or fermentation weight) A clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth Instructions: 1. Prepare the Cabbage: Remove the outer leaves of the cabbage and set one aside. Finely shred the cabbage using a knife or mandoline. 2. Massage the Cabbage: Place the shredded cabbage in a large bowl. Sprinkle with sea salt. Massage the cabbage with your hands for about 5-10 minutes, until it softens and releases its juices. 3. Add Kombucha: Pour the kombucha over the cabbage and mix thoroughly...