The culinary corner

 Mixed Vegetable Sambar for Dosa A Comforting South Indian Classic You Can Make at Home There are few South Indian breakfasts as universally loved as crispy dosa with hot, aromatic sambar . While dosa brings the crunch, it’s the Mixed Vegetable Sambar that adds soul—earthy lentils, and a gentle heat from spices. This version uses a medley of vegetables for a rich, wholesome bowl that works equally well with idli,or even plain rice. If you’ve always wanted restaurant-style sambar that’s easy and foolproof, this recipe is for you! What Makes This Sambar Special? Uses everyday vegetables you likely already have Perfect balance of tangy, spicy, and savory Thick and flavorful with toor dal ,mung bean Dal and red lentils A great make-ahead dish—tastes even better the next day Wash lentils thoroughly for several times   Cook Lentils separately    Heat some oil in a pan and Add a teaspoon mustard seeds,and chopped dried red chillies.Let mustard seeds pop. ...

 Crispy Roast Potatoes.   The Ultimate Crispy Roast Potatoes (Foolproof Every Time!) There are few kitchen joys as satisfying as pulling a tray of perfectly crispy roast potatoes out of the oven. Golden edges, fluffy centers, and that irresistible crunch—this simple side dish transforms any meal into something special. Whether you're pairing them with a Sunday roast, serving them alongside chicken or steak, or just eating them with a dollop of mayo (no judgement here!), these roast potatoes will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Today, I’m sharing my tried-and-true method for getting super crispy outsides with soft, buttery insides , using simple ingredients and a few clever techniques.  Ingredients 1 kg (2.2 lbs) potatoes  3 tbsp vegetable oil (or goose fat for extra crispiness) 1 tsp salt ½ tsp black pepper 1 tsp garlic powder (optional) 1 tsp paprika (optional) Fresh herbs to finish (rosemary, thyme, parsley) Or use garlic and herb mix (i...

Stir fried  beet root leaves Stir-Fried Beetroot Leaves: The Delicious Zero-Waste Side Dish You’re Probably Missing When most people buy fresh beetroots, they focus on the vibrant bulb and toss the leafy tops without a second thought. But those greens? They’re one of the most underrated vegetables you can bring into your kitchen. Tender, earthy, nutrient-packed, and incredibly versatile,  beetroot leaves are a zero-waste cook’s dream . One of the simplest and tastiest ways to enjoy them is with a quick stir-fry. How to Prep Beetroot Leaves Choose fresh, crisp leaves with firm stems. Rinse well—sand loves to hide in the folds. Trim off any tough ends, then chop the leaves and stems separately (stems need a little extra cooking time). A nd if you’re working with limited space, don’t worry—beetroots are wonderfully container-friendly. A deep pot, a sunny spot, and regular watering are all they need to flourish.     Pick the freshest beetroot leaves you can find, choos...

 Mung Beans/Mun Ata /Green gram curry (මුං ඇට කරිය) Mung bean curry is a warm, nourishing dish celebrated across many Asian cuisines for its simplicity, wholesomeness, and rich, earthy flavor. Made from humble green mung beans, this curry transforms into a hearty, protein-packed meal as the beans simmer until tender and creamy. Aromatic spices—like turmeric, curry powder and curry leaves—layer in depth and warmth, while garlic, & onions,  create a savory base that ties everything together. What makes mung bean curry especially beloved is its versatility.It pairs beautifully with steamed rice, roti, or even crusty bread, making it an easy weeknight dish that still feels nourishing and satisfying. Packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, mung bean curry is as wholesome as it is delicious—a cozy bowl of goodness that brings comfort with every spoonful. Sri Lankan–style mung bean curry ,  k nown locally as mung ata   is a beautiful...

 Flat beans Curry    If you’ve ever walked past a bundle of extra-wide, vibrant green pods at the market and wondered what they were, chances are you were looking at flat beans —also known as Romano beans or Italian flat beans .   Flat beans are instantly recognizable by their long, broad, and smooth pods , which usually stretch about 4 to 7 inches. Unlike the round, narrow green beans you may be used to, these ones have a pleasantly meaty texture and a slightly sweet, earthy flavor . When cooked, they soften beautifully, becoming silky while still holding their shape.  Flat beans are a flavorful, versatile, and nutritious addition to any kitchen. Whether you’re exploring new vegetables or looking for a creative twist on an everyday side dish, these wide, tender pods are definitely worth a spot on your shopping list.