Monzoors Kitchen- A Food Blog With Perfect Recipes

Mediterranean Mezze Platter Recipe A mezze platter is a vibrant and versatile assortment of small dishes, perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a light meal. It typically includes dips, breads, and an array of fresh and pickled items. Here's how to create an impressive mezze platter: Components of a Mezze Platter 1. Dips and Spreads Hummus: Classic or flavored (roasted red pepper, avocado, or beet). Baba Ghanoush: Smoky eggplant dip. Tzatziki: Creamy yogurt dip with cucumber and dill. Muhammara: Spicy red pepper and walnut spread. 2. Breads Warm pita bread (cut into wedges). Lavash or flatbreads. 3. Fresh Vegetables Sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, radishes, and bell peppers. Baby carrots or celery sticks. 4. Cheese Feta cheese cubes or slices. Halloumi or labneh (optional). 5. Olives and Pickles A mix of green and black olives (e.g., Kalamata, Castelvetrano). Pickled vegetables like turnips, cucumbers, or artichokes. 6. Protein (Optional) Grilled chicken skewers, lamb...

  Classic Shakshuka Recipe Shakshuka is a flavorful Middle Eastern and North African dish featuring poached eggs in a spiced tomato and bell pepper sauce. It's perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner! Ingredients 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 medium onion, finely chopped 1 red bell pepper, diced 3 garlic cloves, minced 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon smoked paprika ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional, for heat) 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (or 4 fresh tomatoes, diced) 2 tablespoons tomato paste Salt and pepper to taste 4–6 large eggs Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish) Optional: Crumbled feta cheese or olives for topping Instructions 1. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in the bell pepper and cook for another 5 minutes until tender. 2. Add the Spices: Stir in the garlic, cumin, paprika, and chili powder. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant. 3. Prepare the Tomato Sauce: A...

Avocado Hummus Recipe This creamy avocado hummus combines the rich, nutty flavor of traditional hummus with the buttery texture of ripe avocados. It's perfect as a dip, spread, or healthy snack! Ingredients 1 ripe avocado 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed 3 tablespoons tahini 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons fresh lime or lemon juice 1 clove garlic (or ½ teaspoon garlic powder) ½ teaspoon ground cumin Salt to taste 2–4 tablespoons water (adjust for desired consistency) Optional toppings: Paprika, chopped cilantro, olive oil drizzle Instructions 1. Prepare the Ingredients: Scoop out the avocado flesh and discard the pit. Rinse and drain the chickpeas. 2. Blend the Base: In a food processor or blender, combine the avocado, chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lime or lemon juice, garlic, cumin, and a pinch of salt. 3. Adjust the Consistency: Blend until smooth, adding water one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency. 4. Taste and Adjust: Taste the hummu...

Here’s a recipe for Egg Coffee (Cà Phê Trứng), a creamy and sweet Vietnamese coffee made with whipped egg yolk and condensed milk. This unique drink originated in Hanoi and is a must-try for coffee lovers. Egg Coffee Recipe Ingredients For One Serving: 1 egg yolk 2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional) 1/2 cup strong hot coffee (Vietnamese drip coffee or espresso works best) Instructions 1. Brew the Coffee: Prepare a strong cup of Vietnamese coffee using a phin filter, or brew espresso if you don’t have one. Keep it hot. 2. Whip the Egg Mixture: In a bowl, combine the egg yolk, condensed milk, and vanilla extract (if using). Use a hand mixer or whisk to beat the mixture until it becomes thick, creamy, and pale yellow (about 3–5 minutes). 3. Assemble the Egg Coffee: Pour the hot coffee into a cup. Gently spoon the whipped egg mixture on top of the coffee, creating a creamy layer. 4. Serve: Serve immediately. To drink, stir the egg mixture into the ...

Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for Vietnamese Spring Rolls (Gỏi Cuốn), filled with fresh vegetables, herbs, and your choice of protein, wrapped in rice paper. Spring Rolls Recipe Ingredients For the Rolls: 12 rice paper wrappers (bánh tráng) 200g (7 oz) cooked shrimp, sliced in half lengthwise OR 200g cooked chicken, pork, or tofu (optional) 1 cup cooked rice vermicelli noodles 1 cup lettuce leaves, torn into pieces 1/2 cup fresh herbs (mint, Thai basil, cilantro) 1/2 cup julienned carrots 1/2 cup julienned cucumbers For the Dipping Sauce: Option 1: Peanut Sauce 1/4 cup peanut butter 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce 1 teaspoon soy sauce 1 teaspoon rice vinegar 1/4 cup warm water (adjust for desired consistency) Crushed peanuts for garnish Option 2: Nuoc Cham (Fish Sauce Dipping Sauce) 3 tablespoons fish sauce 3 tablespoons lime juice 2 tablespoons sugar 1/4 cup water 1 garlic clove, minced 1 chili, finely chopped (optional) Instructions 1. Prepare the Ingredients: Cook the vermicelli n...

Here’s a recipe for Banh Mi, the iconic Vietnamese sandwich featuring a crispy baguette filled with savory meats, pickled vegetables, fresh herbs, and a flavorful spread. Banh Mi Recipe Ingredients For the Sandwich Base: 4 small baguettes (light and crispy Vietnamese-style preferred) 2–3 tablespoons mayonnaise 1–2 teaspoons soy sauce For the Protein: 200g (7 oz) pork belly, grilled or roasted OR 200g grilled chicken, beef, or tofu (for variations) OR store-bought pork pâté (optional, for an authentic touch) For the Pickled Vegetables (Đồ Chua): 1 cup daikon radish, julienned 1 cup carrots, julienned 1/2 cup white vinegar 1/2 cup water 3 tablespoons sugar 1 teaspoon salt For Garnish: 1 cucumber, thinly sliced Fresh cilantro sprigs Sliced jalapeño or chili peppers (optional) Instructions 1. Prepare the Pickled Vegetables: In a small saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Heat gently until the sugar dissolves, then cool. Place julienned daikon and carrots in a jar or bowl. Pou...

Here’s a recipe for Pho, the iconic Vietnamese noodle soup with a fragrant, flavorful broth, rice noodles, and various toppings. This recipe focuses on the classic Beef Pho (Phở Bò), but you can adapt it for chicken or vegetarian versions. Pho Recipe Ingredients For the Broth: 1 kg (2.2 lbs) beef bones (marrow or knuckle) 500g (1 lb) beef brisket (optional) 1 large onion, halved 1 piece (3 inches) ginger, halved lengthwise 4 liters (16 cups) water 2 cinnamon sticks 4 star anise 4 cloves 1 cardamom pod (optional) 1 tablespoon coriander seeds 1 teaspoon fennel seeds 1 tablespoon fish sauce (or to taste) 1 tablespoon sugar 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste) For the Noodles and Meat: 300g (10 oz) dried rice noodles (pho noodles) 200g (7 oz) raw beef sirloin or tenderloin, thinly sliced Toppings and Garnishes: Fresh bean sprouts Fresh Thai basil Cilantro leaves Lime wedges Thinly sliced chili peppers (optional) Hoisin sauce and Sriracha fo Instructions 1. Prepare the Bones and Brisket: Blanc...

Here’s a recipe for Mango Sticky Rice, a popular Thai dessert made with sweet glutinous rice, ripe mangoes, and a creamy coconut sauce. Mango Sticky Rice Recipe Ingredients For the Sticky Rice: 1 cup glutinous rice (sticky rice) 1 1/2 cups water For the Coconut Sauce: 1 cup coconut milk 1/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste) 1/4 teaspoon salt For the Topping: 1/4 cup coconut milk 1 teaspoon sugar 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening) For Serving: 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and sliced Toasted sesame seeds or mung beans for garnish Instructions 1. Prepare the Sticky Rice: Rinse the glutinous rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best results). Drain the rice and steam it in a steamer lined with cheesecloth or a clean kitchen towel for 25–30 minutes until tender. 2. Make the Coconut Sauce: In a small saucepan, heat 1 cup of coconut milk over medium heat. Add the sugar and salt, stirring until dissol...

Here’s a recipe for Japchae, a classic Korean stir-fried glass noodle dish made with sweet potato noodles and colorful vegetable Japchae Recipe Ingredients For the Noodles: 200g (7 oz) sweet potato glass noodles (dangmyeon) For the Vegetables and Protein: 1 medium carrot, julienned 1 small zucchini, julienned 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced thinly 1/2 onion, thinly sliced 4 shiitake mushrooms, sliced (or any mushroom of choice) 1 cup spinach, blanched and squeezed 100g (3.5 oz) beef or chicken, thinly sliced (optional, for protein) 2 eggs, beaten and cooked into a thin omelet, then sliced into strips (optional) For the Sauce: 3 tablespoons soy sauce 1 tablespoon sesame oil 1 teaspoon sugar 1 clove garlic, minced Salt and pepper to taste For Garnish: 1 tablespoon sesame seeds Sliced green onions Instructions 1. Cook the Noodles: Boil the sweet potato noodles according to package instructions (usually 6–8 minutes). Drain, rinse under cold water, and toss with a little sesame oil to prevent s...

Here’s a delicious Bibimbap recipe, a traditional Korean mixed rice dish topped with vegetables, protein, and a flavorful sauce. Bibimbap Recipe Ingredients For the Base: 2 cups cooked white rice (short-grain or medium-grain works best) For the Toppings (customizable): 1 cup spinach, blanched and squeezed 1 medium carrot, julienned and sautéed 1 zucchini, julienned and sautéed 1/2 cup bean sprouts, blanched 4 shiitake mushrooms, sliced and sautéed 1/2 cup kimchi (optional) 200g (7 oz) bulgogi-style beef or tofu (see preparation below) 2 eggs (fried or sunny-side up) For the Sauce: 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste) 1 teaspoon sesame oil 1 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon rice vinegar 1 teaspoon soy sauce 1 teaspoon minced garlic For Garnish: Sesame seeds Sliced green onions Instructions 1. Prepare the Rice: Cook the rice according to package instructions and keep it warm. 2. Prepare the Vegetables: Blanch the spinach and bean sprouts in boiling water for 1 minute. Drain and squeeze ...

Here’s a recipe for a Sushi Bowl, a deconstructed version of sushi that’s easy to make and packed with all the flavors of a traditional sushi roll. Sushi Bowl Recipe Ingredients For the Base: 2 cups sushi rice (or short-grain rice) 2 tablespoons rice vinegar 1 tablespoon sugar 1/2 teaspoon salt For the Toppings (customizable): 200g (7 oz) sashimi-grade salmon or tuna, diced (or cooked shrimp, crab, or tofu for a vegetarian option) 1 avocado, sliced or diced 1 cucumber, sliced into matchsticks 1 medium carrot, julienned 1 sheet nori (seaweed), cut into thin strips 2 tablespoons pickled ginger 1/4 cup edamame, cooked and shelled 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (white or black) For the Sauce: 2 tablespoons soy sauce 1 tablespoon sesame oil 1 teaspoon rice vinegar 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional, for spice) 1/2 teaspoon honey or sugar Optional Garnishes: Green onions, sliced Furikake seasoning Instructions 1. Cook the Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook accordin...

Here’s a classic Fried Rice recipe that’s quick, easy, and adaptable to your favorite ingredients. Classic Fried Rice Recipe Ingredients For the Base: 3 cups cooked, cold white rice (day-old rice works best) 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor) For the Protein and Vegetables: 2 large eggs, beaten 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., carrots, peas, corn, bell peppers), diced 1/2 cup cooked protein of choice (chicken, shrimp, pork, tofu, or omit for vegetarian) 2 green onions, sliced For the Sauce: 2 tablespoons soy sauce 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional, for umami) 1 teaspoon sesame oil 1/2 teaspoon sugar Optional Add-Ins: 1 clove garlic, minced 1 teaspoon ginger, minced A pinch of white pepper Instructions 1. Prepare the Rice: Use cold, leftover rice for the best texture. If using freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a tray to cool and dry slightly. 2. Cook the Eggs: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Pour in the beaten eggs and...

Here’s an authentic Mapo Tofu recipe, a beloved Sichuan dish featuring silky tofu, ground meat, and a spicy, numbing sauce. Mapo Tofu Recipe Ingredients For the Dish: 400g (14 oz) soft or medium-firm tofu, cut into 1-inch cubes 200g (7 oz) ground pork or beef (or use plant-based ground meat for vegetarian) 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 1 tablespoon Sichuan peppercorns (optional, for numbing flavor) 2 garlic cloves, minced 1 tablespoon ginger, minced 2 green onions, finely chopped (white and green parts separated) 1–2 tablespoons doubanjiang (Sichuan chili bean paste) 1 tablespoon fermented black beans (optional, rinsed and chopped) 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust for spice level) For the Sauce: 1 cup chicken or vegetable stock 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry) 1 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry) Optional Garnish: Additional green onion (sliced) Toasted Sichuan peppercorn powder Instructions 1. Prepare the Tofu: Br...

Here’s a classic Kung Pao Chicken recipe, a Sichuan-style stir-fry that's spicy, savory, and slightly sweet. Kung Pao Chicken Recipe Ingredients For the Chicken: 500g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry) 1 teaspoon cornstarch For the Sauce: 3 tablespoons soy sauce 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce (optional, for deeper color) 2 tablespoons rice vinegar 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce 2 teaspoons sugar 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch 2 tablespoons water For the Stir-Fry: 2 tablespoons vegetable or peanut oil 6–8 dried red chilies (adjust based on spice preference), cut into halves 1 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns (optional, for authentic flavor) 2 garlic cloves, minced 1 teaspoon ginger, minced 1/4 cup unsalted peanuts or cashews, toasted 2 green onions, sliced into 1-inch pieces 1 bell pepper, diced (optional, for extra color and crunch) Instructions 1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the ch...

Here’s a detailed recipe for Katsu Curry, a Japanese dish combining crispy breaded cutlets with a rich, flavorful curry sauce. Katsu Curry Recipe Ingredients For the Chicken/Pork Katsu: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or pork loin chops 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 2 large eggs, beaten 1 cup panko breadcrumbs Salt and pepper to taste Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil) For the Curry Sauce: 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 1 large onion, finely chopped 2 medium carrots, diced 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed 3 cups chicken or vegetable stock 3 tablespoons curry powder 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1 tablespoon garam masala 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 1 teaspoon honey or sugar (optional, for sweetness) For Serving: Steamed white rice Fresh parsley or scallions (optional, for garnish) Instructions 1. Prepare the Katsu: Pound the chicken or pork to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch, to ensure even cooking. Season with salt and pepper. Coat each ...

Here’s a detailed recipe for making crispy and light Japanese tempura at home. Classic Tempura Recipe Ingredients For the Tempura Batter: 1 cup all-purpose flour (chilled) 1 cup ice-cold water 1 large egg 1/2 teaspoon baking powder (optional, for extra crispiness) For the Dipping Sauce (Tentsuyu): 1 cup dashi stock (or substitute with water + 1/4 teaspoon dashi powder) 1/4 cup soy sauce 1/4 cup mirin (sweet rice wine) 1 teaspoon grated ginger (optional) For the Tempura Ingredients: Vegetables: Sweet potatoes, zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, mushrooms, or green beans (sliced into manageable pieces) Seafood: Shrimp (peeled and deveined, tail-on), white fish fillets, or squid rings Oil for frying: Vegetable, canola, or peanut oil Instructions 1. Prepare the Ingredients: Wash and cut the vegetables into thin slices or bite-sized pieces. Pat the seafood dry with paper towels to prevent splattering during frying. 2. Make the Batter: In a mixing bowl, lightly beat the egg with ice-cold wate...

Here’s a detailed sushi recipe to guide you through making sushi rolls at home. It’s perfect for beginners and can be customized with your favorite fillings. Homemade Sushi Recipe Ingredients For the Rice: 2 cups sushi rice 2 1/2 cups water 1/3 cup rice vinegar 2 tablespoons sugar 1 teaspoon salt For the Sushi Rolls: 5 sheets of nori (seaweed) 1 cucumber, julienned 1 avocado, sliced 200g raw sushi-grade fish (like tuna or salmon), thinly sliced 200g imitation crab or cooked shrimp (optional) Soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger for serving Optional Garnishes: Sesame seeds Green onions, chopped Spicy mayo (1/2 cup mayo + 1 tablespoon sriracha) Instructions 1. Prepare Sushi Rice: Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook the rice in a rice cooker or pot with 2 1/2 cups of water. In a small saucepan, combine rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Heat until sugar dissolves, but don’t boil. Mix the vinegar mixture into the hot rice and let it cool to room temperature....

Gulab Jamun Cheesecake Recipe Gulab Jamun Cheesecake is an indulgent fusion dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the syrupy sweetness of Gulab Jamun, a classic Indian dessert. It’s perfect for special occasions and will be a hit with your family and friends Ingredients For the Base: Digestive biscuits – 200 g (or graham crackers) Butter – 1/4 cup, melted For the Cheesecake Filling: Cream cheese – 500 g (room temperature) Condensed milk – 1/2 cup Heavy cream – 1 cup Powdered sugar – 1/4 cup (adjust to taste) Vanilla extract – 1 tsp Gelatin – 2 tsp (or agar-agar for a vegetarian option) Water – 3 tbsp (for blooming gelatin) For the Gulab Jamun Layer: Mini Gulab Jamuns – 10-12 (store-bought or homemade) For Garnish: Crushed pistachios – 2 tbsp Rose petals – for decoration (optional) Instructions Step 1: Prepare the Base 1. Crush the biscuits into fine crumbs using a food processor or rolling pin. 2. Mix with melted butter until the texture resembles wet sand. 3. Pr...