Monzoors Kitchen- A Food Blog with Delicious Recipes

Traditional German Christmas Cookies (Zimtsterne) – Cinnamon Star Delight Get into the festive spirit with these authentic German Christmas cookies – Zimtsterne , or cinnamon stars! Made with ground almonds, egg whites, and plenty of cinnamon, these chewy, gluten-free treats are a beloved holiday favorite across Germany. What Are Zimtsterne? Zimtsterne (pronounced tsimt-shtair-nuh ) are iconic German cinnamon star cookies traditionally made during the Advent season. Chewy and nutty with a crisp, glossy meringue topping, they’re naturally gluten-free and packed with warm holiday spice. Ingredients for Zimtsterne (Cinnamon Star Cookies) 2 1/2 cups (250g) finely ground almonds (or almond flour) 2 tsp ground cinnamon 2 large egg whites 1 1/2 cups (150g) powdered sugar 1 tsp lemon juice Pinch of salt Optional: 1 tsp vanilla extract How to Make German Christmas Cinnamon Stars Step 1: Make the Meringue Beat egg whites with salt until stiff peaks form. Gradually add ...

  Authentic German Egg Noodles Recipe (Spätzle) – Easy Homemade Side Dish Soft, chewy, and perfect with gravy or cheese — these authentic German egg noodles , known as Spätzle , are the ultimate comfort food. Whether served with schnitzel or as cheesy Käsespätzle , this homemade version is simple, satisfying, and made with pantry staples. What Are Spätzle (German Egg Noodles)? Spätzle are small, rustic egg noodles from southern Germany, especially Swabia and Bavaria. Made with flour, eggs, and water or milk, the dough is pressed or scraped into boiling water. The result? Tender, slightly chewy noodles that soak up sauces beautifully. Ingredients for Authentic Spätzle 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 3 large eggs 1/2 tsp salt 1/4 to 1/2 cup (60–120ml) water or milk (as needed) Butter (for tossing the cooked noodles) Optional: A pinch of nutmeg for traditional flavor How to Make German Egg Noodles (Step-by-Step) Step 1: Make the Dough In a mixing bowl, combine flo...

  German Braised Red Cabbage Recipe (Rotkohl) – Sweet, Tangy & Easy! Looking for a vibrant, flavorful side dish to pair with sausages, schnitzel, or your holiday roast? This German Braised Red Cabbage , known as Rotkohl , is tender, sweet, tangy, and infused with traditional spices. It’s a staple at Oktoberfest, Christmas dinners, and Sunday family meals. What Is Rotkohl (Braised Red Cabbage)? Rotkohl is a classic German side dish made from red cabbage slowly braised with apples, vinegar, onions, and spices. The result is a glossy, jewel-toned dish with a sweet-sour flavor that complements rich meats like pork, duck, and sausages. Ingredients for Traditional German Rotkohl 1 medium head of red cabbage (about 2 lbs), thinly sliced 2 tbsp butter or oil 1 medium onion, finely chopped 1 large apple (sweet variety like Fuji or Honeycrisp), peeled and grated or chopped 1/3 cup (80ml) apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar 1/2 tsp salt (or t...

Authentic German Potato Salad (Swabian Style) – Warm, Tangy & Delicious Looking for the perfect side dish that’s both comforting and bold in flavor? This authentic German Potato Salad ( Schwäbischer Kartoffelsalat ) is warm, tangy, and loaded with savory goodness – a must-have at BBQs, picnics, and Oktoberfest celebrations. What Makes German Potato Salad Different? Unlike American versions that use mayonnaise, this Southern German Potato Salad features a vinegar-based dressing served warm or at room temperature. It’s light, tangy, and perfect alongside sausages, schnitzel, or grilled meats. Ingredients for Authentic Swabian Potato Salad For the Salad: 2 lbs (900g) waxy potatoes (Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best) 1 small yellow onion, finely diced 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable or chicken broth 3 tbsp white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar 2 tbsp sunflower oil or neutral oil 1 tsp Dijon or German mustard Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste Optional: choppe...

  Authentic Black Forest Cake Recipe (Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte) – Step-by-Step Guide Moist chocolate cake, sweet cherry filling, and pillowy whipped cream – this classic German dessert is as beautiful as it is delicious. In this post, you'll learn how to make an authentic Black Forest Cake at home, with all the tips and tricks you need for a flawless result. What Is Black Forest Cake? Black Forest Cake, known in German as Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte , is a layered chocolate sponge cake filled with cherries and whipped cream. Traditionally, it includes a splash of Kirsch (a cherry schnapps) for that signature flavor. This cake is perfect for birthdays, holidays, and special occasions – and it’s surprisingly simple to make from scratch! Ingredients You'll Need For the Chocolate Sponge Cake: 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour 1/3 cup (30g) unsweetened cocoa powder 1 tsp baking powder 1/2 tsp salt 4 large eggs 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (60ml) milk 1/4...

Authentic German Rouladen Recipe – Beef Rolls with Pickles & Gravy Posted on May 13, 2025 | By monzoorskitchen Looking for a hearty, comforting meal that screams German tradition? Try Rinderrouladen , a beloved German dish of tender beef rolls stuffed with mustard, onions, bacon, and pickles , slowly braised in rich brown gravy. This recipe is perfect for cozy Sunday dinners, Oktoberfest menus, or holiday gatherings. Why You’ll Love This Recipe Authentic German flavor Perfect comfort food Great make-ahead dish Freezer-friendly Ingredients For the Rouladen: 4 slices of beef top round or flank steak (about ¼ inch thick) 4 tsp yellow or Dijon mustard 4 slices bacon 1 small onion, thinly sliced 2 dill pickles, cut into strips Salt and black pepper, to taste 2 tbsp vegetable oil For the Gravy: 1 tbsp tomato paste 1 cup beef broth ½ cup red wine (optional, sub with more broth) 1 tsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp cold water (for thickening) Step-by-Step Instructi...

  Chicha Morada Recipe – Traditional Peruvian Purple Corn Drink Make refreshing and authentic Chicha Morada at home! This traditional Peruvian purple corn drink is naturally sweet, fruity, and packed with antioxidants. Perfect for summer, parties, or everyday hydration. What Is Chicha Morada? Chicha Morada is a sweet, spiced beverage made from purple corn , native to the Andes of Peru. Simmered with pineapple, cinnamon, cloves, and citrus, this deep purple drink is as flavorful as it is healthy. It's a staple in Peruvian cuisine and is enjoyed cold, especially during warm weather. Why You’ll Love This Recipe Naturally caffeine-free and refreshing Loaded with antioxidants from purple corn Great for hydration , parties, or family meals Authentic Peruvian flavor Easy to make in big batches and store Ingredients 1 lb dried purple corn (maíz morado) 1 pineapple , peeled and chopped (reserve peel for boiling) 1 apple , chopped 1 cinnamon stick 4–5 cloves 10 ...

  Aji de Gallina Recipe – Creamy Peruvian Chicken Stew Traditional Aji de Gallina—Peru’s beloved creamy chicken stew made with aji amarillo peppers, walnuts, and tender shredded chicken. Comforting, rich, and full of authentic flavor! What Is Aji de Gallina? Aji de Gallina is a classic Peruvian dish made with shredded chicken in a rich, creamy sauce flavored with aji amarillo peppers, cheese, bread, and walnuts. Served over rice and potatoes, it's a comforting and flavorful staple in Peruvian home cooking . Why You’ll Love This Recipe Traditional Peruvian comfort food Creamy and mildly spicy with unique flavor A great way to use leftover chicken Easy to make with simple ingredients Ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep Ingredients For the Chicken: 1 lb (450g) chicken breast or thighs , cooked and shredded 1 bay leaf Salt and pepper to taste For the Sauce: 2 tbsp vegetable oil 1 medium onion , finely chopped 2–3 tbsp aji amarillo paste (adjust to tas...

  Easy Brazilian Cheese Bread (Pão de Queijo Recipe) Make authentic Brazilian cheese bread at home! This gluten-free pão de queijo recipe is crispy outside, chewy inside, and packed with cheesy flavor. Quick, easy, and perfect for snacks or breakfast! What Is Pão de Queijo? Pão de queijo is a traditional Brazilian cheese bread made with tapioca flour (cassava starch) and cheese. Naturally gluten-free, these delicious cheese puffs have a crisp crust and a soft, chewy center , often served for breakfast or as a snack. Why You’ll Love This Recipe Gluten-free and naturally grain-free Made with simple pantry ingredients Ready in under 30 minutes Chewy, cheesy, and totally addicting Perfect for snacking, parties, or coffee breaks Ingredients 1 cup whole milk ¼ cup butter 1 tsp salt 2 cups tapioca flour (or cassava starch) 1 large egg 1½ cups grated cheese (Parmesan, mozzarella, or Minas cheese) How to Make Pão de Queijo – Step-by-Step Step 1: Preheat and ...

  Brazilian Moqueca Recipe (Bahian Fish Stew) Make authentic Brazilian moqueca—a rich and flavorful fish stew with coconut milk, peppers, and dendê oil. This traditional moqueca baiana recipe is easy, aromatic, and perfect for a tropical dinner at home. What Is Moqueca? Moqueca is a traditional Brazilian seafood stew, known for its vibrant flavors and colorful presentation. Originating from Bahia , it’s typically made with white fish , bell peppers , coconut milk , and palm oil (dendê oil) , cooked slowly to blend flavors beautifully. Why You’ll Love This Moqueca Recipe Packed with rich, tropical flavor Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free Simple one-pot recipe Great for entertaining or a special dinner A taste of authentic Brazilian cuisine Ingredients For the Moqueca: 1.5 lbs firm white fish (sea bass, cod, or snapper), cut into chunks Juice of 1 lime Salt and pepper to taste 2 tbsp olive oil 1 medium onion , sliced 3 cloves garlic , minced 1 red bell pe...

  Authentic Alfajores Recipe (Dulce de Leche Sandwich Cookies) Learn how to make soft and buttery alfajores filled with dulce de leche and dusted with powdered sugar. This classic South American cookie recipe is perfect for holidays, gifts, or a sweet treat with coffee. What Are Alfajores? Alfajores are traditional South American sandwich cookies , popular in Argentina, Peru, and Uruguay. These melt-in-your-mouth treats are made with buttery shortbread cookies and filled with rich dulce de leche , then rolled in powdered sugar or shredded coconut. Why You’ll Love This Alfajores Recipe Authentic Argentinian-style Tender and crumbly texture Filled with luscious dulce de leche Great for gifting, holidays, or afternoon tea Can be made ahead and stored Ingredients For the Cookies: 2 cups cornstarch 1 cup all-purpose flour 1 tsp baking powder ½ tsp baking soda ¾ cup unsalted butter , softened ½ cup granulated sugar 2 egg yolks 1 whole egg 1 tsp vanilla extract...

  Grilled Churrasco Steak with Chimichurri Sauce (Argentinian-Style) Learn how to make authentic Argentinian churrasco steak with homemade chimichurri sauce. This easy grilled steak recipe is bold, juicy, and packed with herby flavor—perfect for BBQs and weeknight dinners. What Is Churrasco? Churrasco is a Latin American-style grilled steak , especially popular in Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay. It’s typically a thin, marinated or simply seasoned cut of beef grilled over high heat and served with a bright, zesty chimichurri sauce . Why You’ll Love This Churrasco Recipe Quick and easy grilling Served with authentic chimichurri Perfect for summer cookouts or weeknight dinners Naturally low-carb and gluten-free Customizable with different steak cuts Ingredients For the Churrasco (Grilled Steak): 1.5–2 lbs flank steak or skirt steak 1 tbsp olive oil Salt and freshly cracked black pepper Optional: 1 tsp smoked paprika or garlic powder For the Chimichurri Sauce:...

Classic Peruvian Ceviche Recipe (Easy & Fresh) Make authentic Peruvian ceviche at home with fresh fish, lime juice, red onions, and a spicy kick. This healthy, no-cook ceviche recipe is perfect for summer, meal prep, or a light appetizer. What Is Ceviche? Ceviche is a no-cook seafood dish made by marinating fresh fish in citrus juice—typically lime or lemon. Originating in Peru, it's a refreshing, flavorful dish often served with red onions, cilantro, and chili peppers. Why You’ll Love This Ceviche Recipe Light, fresh, and healthy No cooking required —perfect for summer Packed with protein and vitamin C Ideal as an appetizer, lunch, or party snack Easy to customize with shrimp, scallops, or other seafood Ingredients 1 lb fresh firm white fish (sea bass, snapper, halibut, or tilapia), diced ¾ cup fresh lime juice (about 6–8 limes) ½ small red onion , thinly sliced 1 jalapeño or aji amarillo , minced (optional for heat) 1 tbsp fresh cilantro , chopped Sa...

  Easy Beef Empanada Recipe (Baked or Fried) Learn how to make authentic beef empanadas with a flaky crust and savory filling. This step-by-step empanada recipe includes both baked and fried versions, plus tips for freezing and meal prep. What Are Empanadas? Empanadas are stuffed pastries popular across Latin America, especially in Argentina, Chile, and Colombia. Typically filled with seasoned meat, cheese, or vegetables, they can be baked or fried , making them a versatile option for meals, snacks, or parties. Why You’ll Love This Empanada Recipe Crispy crust and juicy beef filling Make-ahead & freezer-friendly Can be baked or fried Customizable with different fillings Great for appetizers, lunch, or dinner Ingredients For the Dough: 3 cups all-purpose flour ½ tsp salt ½ cup cold unsalted butter , cubed 1 egg ¾ cup cold water (add gradually) For the Beef Filling: 1 tbsp olive oil 1 small onion , finely chopped 2 cloves garlic , minced 1 lb groun...

  Brazilian Feijoada Recipe (Authentic Black Bean Stew) Learn how to make Feijoada, Brazil’s national dish! This rich black bean stew with pork and sausage is deeply flavorful, hearty, and perfect for weekend gatherings or meal prep. What Is Feijoada? Feijoada is a traditional Brazilian black bean stew made with a variety of pork cuts, including sausage and bacon. It’s slow-cooked for hours, resulting in a smoky, savory, and satisfying dish typically served with rice, collard greens, and orange slices. Why You’ll Love This Feijoada Recipe Authentic & traditional Protein-packed and filling Freezer-friendly Perfect for family meals or weekend cooking Naturally gluten-free Ingredients 2 cups dried black beans , soaked overnight 1 lb pork shoulder , cubed ½ lb smoked sausage (linguiça or chorizo), sliced ½ lb bacon , chopped 1 onion , diced 4 garlic cloves , minced 2 bay leaves 1 tbsp paprika (optional) Salt and black pepper to taste 6 cups water or low...

  Authentic Venezuelan Arepas Recipe (Gluten-Free & Easy) Learn how to make authentic Venezuelan arepas with just 3 ingredients! This gluten-free, dairy-free recipe is crispy outside, soft inside, and perfect for stuffing with your favorite fillings. Why You’ll Love This Arepas Recipe Arepas are a traditional Venezuelan and Colombian dish made from precooked corn flour. Naturally gluten-free, they are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Whether for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, they can be filled with endless savory or sweet options. Ingredients 2 cups precooked white cornmeal (Harina P.A.N. is best) 2 ½ cups warm water 1 tsp salt (Optional) 1 tbsp oil or butter for softer texture How to Make Arepas – Step by Step Step 1: Mix the Dough In a large bowl, mix salt into the warm water. Slowly add the cornmeal, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Let it rest for 5 minutes so the flour absorbs the water. Step 2: Form the Arepas Knead the dough until smo...