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Homemade Dog Food - Easy Recipes that Your Pet Will Surely Love
For a moment, picture yourself eating the same food everyday day in and day out! Apart from being ultra-boring, you may also question if you are getting all the required nutrients. Your pet may go through similar feelings. There is a reason why dogs always look so longingly towards what we eat. They desire variety too, even if it means table scraps! Homemade dog food recipes may not only ensure your pet’s health but can also come in handy if you find yourself cleaned out of commercial dog food. But then again, do remember to be mindful of any food allergies or dietary restrictions your pet may have.
Nutrition Guidelines to Create Balanced Homemade Dog Food
Serving sizes usually vary according to your pet’s size, weight and activity level. Some nutrition guidelines you may like to keep in mind:
10% carbohydrates – beans and grains
40% protein - seafood, animal meat, dairy, eggs
50% fresh vegetables
Fat from meat or oil
Calcium – powdered or crushed eggshells, supplements
Fatty acids - - oatmeal, cooked egg yolks, plant oils
Super Healthy and Cheap Homemade Dog Food Recipes
One way to guarantee that your beloved pet is getting super healthy food is by making dog food at home. But for most people with their busy lives and packed schedules, taking time out to cook for their pet can seem challenging. The answer lies in opting for simple recipes both in respect to the ingredients available and time-wise. Most pet lovers may wish to know how to make homemade dog food. So here are some easy-to-make nutritious homemade dog food recipes:
1. Salmon Treat
This is an eco-friendly recipe as it uses the things that people often tend to discard, like broccoli stems, peelings etc to make a delicious meal for your four-legged friend.
Serves - Makes about 2 cups
Preparation Time - 5 minutes
Cooking Time - Approximately 15 to 20 minutes
Ingredients
Two carrots
Two potatoes
A broccoli head (with stem)
A squash
Two salmon portions (with skin)
Olive oil
Method
Chop the broccoli stem and the squash into pieces.
Peel the carrots, potatoes and keep the peelings.
Put broccoli stem, squash, carrot and potato peelings into a pressure cooker and give it a few whistles.
Pour oil into a wok or saucepan and put it on medium heat.
Place the salmon pieces and pan fry them.
Pull off the salmon skin when it turns crisp and place it in the dog bowl.
Transfer the cooked contents of the pressure cooker into the dog bowl.
Give everything a good mix for your dog to enjoy.
2. Pumpkin Dog Biscuits
You can make these yummy pumpkin biscuits as vegetarian dog food. These digestive biscuits are great for your dog’s stomach and can assist in tackling any digestive issues.
Serves - Yields about 24 fluid ounces
Preparation Time - 5 minutes
Cooking Time - About an hour
Ingredients
2/3 cup pumpkin puree
Two cups rice flour
An egg
1/3 cup cold water
Olive oil
Method
Heat the oven to 350 degrees.
In a bowl, mix rice flour and oil.
Whisk the pumpkin puree and egg together until smooth.
Next, add the pumpkin mix to the rice flour mixture.
Slowly pour water and keep stirring.
You can hand mix all the ingredients as well to make a smooth dough.
Line the baking tray with baking paper and smear the dough to desired thickness.
Allow it to bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or till cracks appear on the top.
Cut to preferred sizes.
Cool and stock in an airtight glass container.
3. Chicken Casserole
If you wish to make dog food with chicken, this tasty chicken casserole is just the thing you need to try! The ingredients are also readily available.
Serves - Yields about 2 cups
Preparation Time - 5 minutes
Cooking Time - About 20 minutes
Ingredients
Two chicken breasts
¼ cup rolled oats
A cup of mixed vegetables (green beans, carrots, potatoes, broccoli)
Two cups chicken broth
Olive oil
Method
Cut the chicken breast pieces into desired sizes.
Take a pan and pour some oil.
Put it on medium heat and transfer the chicken pieces into it.
Sauté them until cooked.
Pour the chicken broth, mixed vegetables, and rolled oats.
Cover the pan and allow the ingredients to simmer for about 15-20 minutes.
Let it cool down before serving.
4. Vegetable Delight
You may want to bookmark this beautiful dish with all the goodness of vegetables under dog food recipes for dogs with allergies. It is easy-to-cook and contains wholesome ingredients.
Serves - Makes about 4 cups
Preparation Time - 10 minutes
Cooking Time - About 30 minutes
Ingredients
A sweet potato
A cup of mixed vegetables (carrots, green peas, broccoli, cauliflower)
A can of black beans (drained and rinsed)
2/3 cups brown rice (uncooked)
1 ½ cups water
Six kale leaf stems
Method
Chop the veggies into bite-sized pieces.
Add all the chopped vegetables in a pressure cooker along with some water.
Lower the temperature and allow ingredients to simmer for some time.
Combine rice and water in a slow cooker and bring them to a boil.
Mix the cooked rice, beans and vegetables before serving.
5. Frozen Banana Delight
After a long and exhausting walk, your dog is sure going to love you even more for giving him this refreshing and fantastic treat.
Serves - Makes about 10 cups
Preparation Time - 5 minutes
Cooking Time - About 10 minutes
Ingredients
Four cups plain, unsweetened yoghurt
Three ripe bananas (peeled and mashed)
Two tablespoons of peanut butter
Method
Combine the ingredients in a blender to get a smooth consistency.
Pour the smoothie into cups of preferred sizes.
Place them in the freezer until firm.
6. Turkey Veggie Mix
This can be a wonderful recipe for dogs as it has the right balance of healthy carbs, vegetables and lean animal protein.
Serves - Makes about 12 cups
Preparation Time - 10 minutes
Cooking Time - About 30 to 40 minutes
Ingredients
A pound of turkey
Two cups brown rice (uncooked)
Six cups water
A cup of mixed vegetables (carrots, cauliflower, broccoli)
Method
Combine the turkey, rice and water in a large pot.
Turn the stove on high heat and bring it to a boil.
Reduce the heat and allow the ingredients to simmer.
Add all the vegetables after chopping them.
Cook for 10 more minutes.
Turn off your stove and allow it to cool.
FAQ's
Some of the frequently asked questions about dog food are answered below:
1. Which Foods Should You Avoid Feeding a Dog?
Some of the principal foods that you may want to avoid feeding your dog include the following:
Cherries
Onions
Raisins/grapes
Avocado
Garlic
Alcohol
Brewer’s yeast
Uncooked spinach
Chocolate
Coffee/caffeine
Citrus
Nuts
2. What Homemade Food Can I Feed to My Puppy?
It may not be wise to feed your puppy all that you eat yourself. Your endeavour should be to offer him a balanced mix of proteins which can come from turkey, chicken, organ meats (liver, gizzards, hearts), eggs, tuna, salmon, beef, lamb, pork and vegetables like Brussels sprouts, broccoli, celery, carrots, green beans, peas, cucumbers, sweet potatoes. Speak to your vet before including them to your dog’s menu. In case your dog is allergic to grain, you may opt for a grain-free diet. But if your dog has no issues with grains, rice and oatmeal can be great choices.
3. Is It Ok to Feed Dog Chicken and Rice Every Day?
It is safe to feed dogs chicken and rice daily. But a meal of chicken and rice alone cannot be called a balanced diet as it lacks so many important nutrients. A dog that is served chicken and rice every day may become susceptible to a greater number of medical complications.
4. What Is the Most Common Food Allergy in Dogs?
The most common food allergens in dogs are dairy, beef, egg, wheat, pork, rabbit, lamb, soy. Dogs may sometimes be intolerant to certain foods. Most dogs are allergic to usually more than one food item.
5. How Can I Store Homemade Dog Food?
Proper storage of homemade dog food is essential to ensure nutrient retention, best flavour and quality. Homemade wet foods generally require refrigeration. Be mindful of factors like moisture, temperature and packaging so that the dog food can last for a longer time.
6. How Much Cooked Meat Should a Dog Eat Per Day?
Every dog’s requirement for meat can be different. Meat rations may vary depending on the breed of your dog, his exercise levels, weight, size, the caloric content of other foods. However, in general, an average dog can consume approximately 2 to 3 per cent of his body weight every day.
7. Which Food Is Good for Weight Loss in Dogs?
Obese dogs are more disposed to health issues. Therefore, it is vital to keep their weight in check. Lean meats must form a part of your dog’s diet along with plenty of vegetables. You may want to avoid foods like unhealthy snacks, soy, corn, sugars and excessive commercial products which contain lots of preservatives. Portion control is another way to maintain their weight.
Balanced home-based dog food can immensely benefit your furry friend, particularly if he is prone to gastrointestinal troubles or allergies. It can also improve behavioural glitches that ensue from dietary deficiencies. However, it may be sensible to consult a vet before switching over to homemade meals to avoid any likely issues. It is only right to treat your trusted canine companions like a family member by preparing wholesome food for them.
Also Read: Tips to Take Care of Your Pet in Monsoon Season Read more
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Consuming Chocolates during Pregnancy
It is normal to get cravings during the course of your pregnancy. Quite often, some of the cravings are likely to be for what is termed ‘unhealthy’ food, especially for pregnant women. Junk food, ice-cream, and chocolates often top the list of such cravings. Of these, chocolate has made the cut and is considered safe for consumption. In fact, according to a study conducted by researchers at the Universite Laval Quebec City in Canada and one at Yale University, chocolate is thought to boost foetal growth and development.
Is Eating Chocolate Safe During Pregnancy
If you have been wondering, “can I eat chocolate during pregnancy”, then you will be relieved to know that you can. But be sure to eat it in moderation. This is due to the presence of caffeine in chocolates. It is important to keep the levels of caffeine under 200 mg per day. Also, eating too much of it can result in you being less hungry for healthy foods which are essential during pregnancy.
Nutritional Value of Chocolates
Chocolates are a rich source of magnesium, flavonoids and theobromine. While magnesium regulates blood pressure and flavonoids are strong antioxidants, theobromine optimises kidney function and stimulates the blood vessels. About 45 gm of milk chocolate contains 235 calories along with 13 g of fat, while the same amount of dark chocolate has 290 calories and 19 g of fat.
Benefits of Eating Chocolate
Eating chocolate, preferably dark chocolate, in moderation, has been found to have many benefits during pregnancy. These include:
Relief from Pre-eclampsia: In pre-eclampsia, the mother tends to have high blood pressure and increased protein levels. This can cause premature labour, convulsions, blood clotting issues, and liver damage. The theobromine present in chocolates can ease this condition and lower its risk by almost 70%. This can be especially effective in the third trimester.
Source of Antioxidants: The flavonoids in chocolates are great antioxidants which can improve immunity levels.
Cardiovascular Benefits: The antioxidants in chocolate are good for the heart and can also prevent heart disease later on in life.
Stress Reliever: Dark chocolate can cause a spike in serotonin and endorphin levels in your brain. These are mood enhancers. The flavanols in chocolate also help combat fatigue and the degree of stress.
Happier Babies: Research indicates that women who ate more dark chocolate during pregnancy went on to have happier and livelier babies. The study also indicated that chocolate safeguards babies from maternal stress.
Balances Cholesterol Levels: The flavonoids in dark chocolate can help check escalation of cholesterol levels when pregnant. They also facilitate better flow of blood by making the blood vessels elastic.
Nutrient Content: Chocolate contains many nutrients such as iron and magnesium which are helpful in improving haemoglobin count and encouraging the metabolism of fatty acids.
Presence of Resveratrol: This constituent of chocolate is helpful in protecting the brain as well as the nervous systems and can be beneficial to the baby’s development.
Anti-inflammatory: The anti-inflammatory properties of chocolate are desirable during pregnancy as they can help reduce the risk of stroke.
Contains Monounsaturated Fats: A moderate amount of monounsaturated fats is good for pregnant women. Chocolate contains oleic acid which has almost the same amount of fats as olive oil.
How to Choose the Right Chocolate?
The darker the chocolate, the better it is. Dark chocolates contain a range of essential compounds that have numerous health benefits for pregnant women. If you can find organic chocolates which contain a minimum amount of sweeteners and refined white sugar, there’s nothing like it. Try to avoid chocolate mousse as it contains raw eggs which are not suitable for pregnant women. Chocolate milk, hot chocolate, and white chocolate are all considered safe for consumption during pregnancy. The occasional servings of chocolate cake and ice cream are also acceptable as long as you stick to your limits.
How Many Chocolates Can You Eat When Pregnant?
The number of chocolates you can eat will depend on your health before and during the pregnancy. Try and steer clear of processed chocolate and instead opt for pure chocolate.
Your doctor is the best person to consult on how much chocolate is safe for you.
Why is Too Much Chocolate Bad in Pregnancy?
There is no concrete explanation as to why women crave chocolates during pregnancy. But no matter how strong your cravings are, following are some reasons why you should not have too much of it:
Increase in Caffeine: Chocolates contain caffeine, and too much of it during pregnancy can affect the neurotransmitters in the body. This can disrupt the normal functioning of the body by giving a false feeling of well-being. Too much caffeine has also been known to cause miscarriages besides bringing on bouts of heartburn.
Excess Calories: Consumption of too much chocolate can result in unwanted weight gain. This is because chocolate contains a good amount of unwanted fat and calories. Being overweight can lead to complications like gestational diabetes, varicose veins, hypertension, and an increase in the odds of a C-section.
Sugar Content: Even if you are exclusively consuming dark chocolate during pregnancy, it does contain a good amount of sugar. There is 18g sugar in a 45 gm slab of dark chocolate while its equivalent, milk chocolate, contains 23g sugar. Too much sugar can lead to excessive weight gain, dental problems, and gestational diabetes.
By making wise choices in the type of chocolates you consume and regulating the quantity, you can safely satisfy your cravings when pregnant.
Disclaimer: This information is just a guide and not a substitute for medical advice from a qualified professional.
Also Read: Drinking Hot Water During Pregnancy Read more
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How to Clean a Fish Tank - Provide a Healthy Environment to Your Little Pets
Many people love to keep fishes as they are considered to be low maintenance pets. The only major maintenance that is required is cleaning the tank. And cleaning a tank is not easy, more so when you have a big tank, and it is full of algae.
Cleaning the tank on a regular basis is important to keep the fishes healthy. A lot of algae accumulates due to light exposure overfeeding. Make sure to clean the aquarium every 2-4 weeks and change 25% of its water.
Should you be cleaning the tank after emptying it? Or will you be able to clean it without emptying? These are some of the questions new fish owners ask. Here, we will talk about all these and much more.
How to Clean an Aquarium the Proper Way?
In order to clean an aquarium, you will need a couple of tools and follow a few simple steps in the right way.
What Tools Will You Need
Items you need to clean an aquarium include:
Algae scraper pad
Plastic scraper blade (optional)
Razor blade
Bleach
Large buckets
Aquarium-safe cleaners
Aquarium siphon kit
Vinegar
Hand soap
Paper towels
Thermometer
Liquid metal and chlorine neutraliser
Aquarium treatment and testing kit
Steps to Follow
1. Use the Algae Scraper Pad to Clean the Interior of the Tank
The first step is properly washing your hands. Rinse off all the soap as your hands will be entering the tank.
You will not have to remove your pets from the tank for doing a basic routine cleaning. It will cause more harm than good to your little pets. The transfer itself will stress them out and staying in their temporary home can cause a lot of danger to their health as the water is not aerated and filtered.
Now, use the algae scraper pad to clean the insides of the tank. Please do not use a kitchen cleaning sponge as these usually have traces of chemicals that can later become lethal to your pet. Loosen all the algae from the four walls of the tank and let the filter take care of the rest.
If there is any stubborn residue on the wall or you are finding it hard to scrub the corners, use a razor blade to scrape off algae from the glass. In case the tank is made of acrylic, make sure you use plastic scraper blade.
2. Clean Rocks and Decorations with Water
Remove all the large rocks, artificial plants, and decorations from the tank and take them to the sink. Place them under running water and let the algae and dirt get washed away. Make use of the algae pad and scrub gently. Do not use soap as it has chemicals.
If this does not work, boil a pot of water. Remove from flame and put all the items inside for 20 mins. Hot water will loosen the algae and other dirt residue making it easy for you to clean.
If you have any non-porous decor accents, you can clean them using cold water mixed with bleach diluted to form a 5-10% solution.
3. Siphon Gravel and Remove 25% of the Tank’s Water
Before placing the decorations back, do the following.
Use a siphon to clean the gravel. You can easily buy a siphon kit from your local pet store, and these do not cost much. It consists of a flexible tube with a vacuum plastic head, designed especially for this purpose.
Submerge this vacuum end in the tank and lower the rest of the tube into the water, slowly, until the air inside the tube is replaced by water completely. Now with the vacuum end still underwater, seal the other end with your thumb so that the tube gets filled with tank water. Lift the tube and put the sealed end into a large bucket, kept below and removed your thumb. The dirty water from the tank will start flowing into the bucket.
Now put the vacuum head into the rocks and let the siphon clear out the gunk. Keep using your thumb to control the water flow on the discharging end. This will help in cleaning debris and gravel. Continue until a quarter of the water has been removed from the fish tank.
4. Cleaning the Exterior
Use aquarium-safe cleaners to clean the hood, light, outside glass and top of the aquarium. These are easily available in pet stores.
5. Add Fresh Water and Bring The Tank to Equilibrium
Now put all the rocks and decorations back into the aquarium. Fill a large bucket with tap water to replace the water you have removed in the third step.
Mix the liquid metal and chlorine neutraliser to the bucket to remove any chlorine and heavy metal. Read the label carefully before adding it the water. Now use a thermometer to check the temperature of this water and wait till it settles down to the same temperature as the water in the tank. Now pour the water into the fish tank. Check if it has the correct pH and balance of ammonia and nitrates using the aquarium treatment and testing kit. This will help your fishes adjust to the changes easily.
6. Changing the Filter
Do not replace or clean the filter at the same time as the fish tank. The filter has beneficial bacteria that is usually lost from the tank while cleaning. Wait for at least a week before you replace the filter. Read the manufacturer instructions properly while replacing it.
FAQs
Some questions you have might include:
1. How Often Should I Clean The Fish Tank?
This depends on how many fishes you have and how often the water becomes messy. Make sure to clean it once every two weeks.
2. How to Clean a Fish Tank Which Has Eggs in it?
Are the eggs on the gravel? Then you just avoid cleaning the gravel areas and continue with the rest. Wait till the eggs hatch and they try to start swimming before you clean the gravel again.
If the eggs have been laid elsewhere, avoid cleaning that area. Fish eggs usually hatch within a week and will not affect the cleaning schedule.
3. How to Get Rid of Algae from the Fish Tank?
Algae is something that you will have to deal with if you have an aquarium. You can make use of magnetic and algae scrubbers to get rid of algae from the tank. You always do not have to clean the entire tank.
4. How to Clean a Fish Bowl?
Fish bowls are like your fish tanks, but they need frequent cleaning and more so if they do not come with a filter. If your fishbowl is not equipped with a filter, change the water frequently. However, make sure not to change more than 10-15% of the water each time.
While cleaning, take the fish out and keep them in a large glass bowl with water taken from the fishbowl itself. As far as cleaning is concerned, follow the same steps as mentioned above. Scrub the glass and remove all algae. Make sure not to use detergent or any other chemicals.
Maintain cleanliness as it will help your fishes to stay healthy and also extend their lives. Unlike other pets, it is difficult to diagnose the health problems of fishes and keeping the tank clean is the least that you can do for them. Whether or not you are attached to your fishes, do not forget they are more than just decoration. As a responsible pet owner, make sure that your fishes are living in a healthy and clean environment.
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Decorating Room for a Girl
Decorating your little girl's room can be a fun and rewarding experience. Give her an exciting and fun living space with exquisite girl's bedroom decor. Whether you want it to be minimalist, lavish or just plain pretty– learn about some exclusive room decorating ideas that will reflect her style and innocent personality.
Turn your princess' room into a masterpiece that she will cherish for the years to come. We have some cool colour themes and refreshing design ideas - whether you want a contemporary chic style for your little lady or a classic and simple girl's room decor that oozes functionality. Give your personal touch to create a warm living and sleeping space for your little one. Check out our bunch of wonderful tips on how to decorate a girl's room that offers cool design and unmatched comfort at the same time.
Creative Room Decorating Ideas for Girls
1. Accent Up with Colours:
Colours look very appealing and lends new dimension to the room. You can add delightful hues on not just the walls, but the curtains, pillows, and furniture too. Classic baby pink is a favourite among girls but why not try something offbeat? What about some accents of electric blue, or tropical orange and yellow for a sassy yet feminine vibe to the room? Different shades of white and cream can also be chosen as the perfect background for a vintage edge. However, if you find yourself lost in colours, soft pinks and warm pines are a winning combination.
2. Mirror Mirror!
Mirrors are a must-have when it comes to girl's room decorating ideas. You may go for simple nursery mirrors or ornate and colourful mirrors as a part of your girl's room. With all the bedtime fairy-tales, your girl is surely going to experiment with her favourite princess' look often. Watch her in different poses in front of the mirror and while doing her own make-up. Keep some accessories, like headbands, clips, fancy chains available along with her dolls on her tiny dressing table.
3.The Magical Touch:
Floral prints and patterned walls are ideal for girl's bedroom designs. Pile up lots of pillows of different shapes and hues in the bed for a cheerful look. Ornate lamps, quirky floral wallpapers, and twinkling chandeliers are a brilliant way of adding a festive touch to your girl's bedroom decor. You can also add touches of gold to the furniture, this will give a royal vibe to her room. Polka-dots in summery colours on walls or bed-sheets is another cheerful girl's bedroom idea. However, avoid too many prints in the room as it will lead to a cluttered effect. Toys of varied sizes placed on shelves serve as a fun decor. You may put framed photos on the walls as a part of your little girl's room decor.
Tips for Your Lady's Room
We have found some awesome room decoration ideas for girls that will appeal to your munchkin:
Think pink if you want a fairy-tale look for your princess' room. Sheer fabrics, a conventional toy chest, and pretty pink curtains will complete the decor.
Give her room a dreamy look with some cloud-shaped lights, fairy wall decals, and glow-in-the-dark items that will take her to the dreamland.
Leave some open space in the room for her playtime.
Include a well-cushioned couch in the room for her to relax whenever she wants.
Make lots of storage spaces in your girl's bedroom design including cabinets, chest of drawers, and a wardrobe so that she can keep her room tidy and organised.
Add a comfy study table and chair to the room for her study time.
Take some ideas from you girl to know what she wants. Keep them in mind while doing up her room. Remember that your princess' room should not just look good but also offer her comfort. After all, her personal space should ensure her happiness and healthy growth! Read more
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Tips and Tricks for Marinating Chicken
If you are fond of eating chicken, you will like to relish a piece which is tender, juicy and flavourful. And to ensure that the chicken is deliciously cooked, it IS essential to marinate it. Marinating involves steeping the meat in a mixture of spices, oil and similar ingredients for softening and enhancing the taste.
Why Should You Marinate Chicken?
Without a doubt, it is the marinade which makes all the difference to a chicken dish. A good marinade which comprises of a perfect balance of spices, fat and acid content can create magic. Some of the reasons why you should marinate chicken are:
Marinating facilitates the breaking down of the meat tissues thereby making it tender and easier to cook. Therefore, any marinating will include acidic ingredients like yoghurt, lemon juice, vinegar or enzymatic components of ingredients like ginger, papaya, pineapple, and guava.
Marinating augments the flavours in the dish by seeping inside the chicken thus making it tastier.
It infuses the chicken preparation with adequate juiciness thereby preventing it from drying and becoming chewy.
In case the chicken is grilled, a marinade protects it from the harmful chemicals which get produced during grilling, owing to the heat.
A balanced marinade acts as a preservative and stops the chicken from degenerating.
It assists in making the meat tender, thus reducing the cooking time.
What Are the Different Methods of Marinating Chicken?
There are essentially two ways of marinating chicken:
1. Wet Marinating
Wet marinating is completely immersing the chicken pieces in a liquid marinade. The wet marinade can be of three types: acidic marinade which includes vinegar, lemon juice, wine, citrus juices, and tomato juice; enzyme marinade which includes papaya, kiwi, and pineapple to help tenderise muscle fibre and dairy marinade which consists of yoghurt, hung curd, and buttermilk.
2. Dry Marinating
Dry marinating refers to coating the chicken parts with barbeque spices or seasoning.
Marinating Chicken - Ingredients and Procedure
It is ideal to always skin and dress the chicken before marinating it. Marinating with yoghurt is the most commonly preferred. The acids in yoghurt make the chicken softer and enable the flavours to be absorbed. The flavours come out best when the chicken remains infused in the marinade for a minimum of 6 hours. So marinating on the morning of the day you want to prepare or even the night before may work best. You can use the following steps:
Ingredients:
Chicken pieces - 1 kg
Thick hung yoghurt (unsweetened) - 1 cup
Ginger-garlic paste - 1 tbsp
Red chilli powder - 1 tsp
Garam masala - 1 tsp
Turmeric powder - 1/2 tsp
Chicken masala (optional) - 2 tsp
Kasoori methi - 2 tsp
Ghee or butter - 2 tbsp
Red food colour (optional) - 1/2 tsp
Salt to taste
Procedure:
Begin by removing the skin of the chicken and washing it properly.
Cut the chicken into pieces.
Next, prick the chicken flesh all over with a sharp knife making thin incisions. Doing this allows the marinade to penetrate deep inside.
Transfer the chicken pieces to a bowl. Position the bowl in a tilt so that any excess water can drain out otherwise the marinade may become watery.
In another bowl, mix all the ingredients to form a smooth paste.
Pour the paste over the chicken pieces and mix everything well. You can use your hands to do this. The aim is to ensure that each chicken piece gets covered with the marinade.
Place the bowl in the refrigerator, after covering, for about 8 to 10 hours.
Take out the marinated chicken from the fridge half an hour before cooking time for it to return to room temperature.
Easy Tips for Marinating Chicken
Some easy tips for marinating chicken are:
The best way to marinate chicken for BBQ is to have an acidic ingredient like lemon juice or vinegar along with fat constituents like oil, herbs, spices and syrups.
Opt for fresh herbs rather than dried herbs to lend a distinct flavour to your dish. In case you don’t have fresh herbs, crush the dried herbs and smear them on the chicken to maximise the flavour.
The favoured ratio of acidic ingredients and oil for the chicken breast must be 1:1.
Take care to not let an acidic marinade work on your chicken for more than six hours as it can worsen the texture by making it too dry. Marinades which do not contain acids can be left on a little longer.
In case you intend to marinate chicken for more than one hour, refrigerate it in an airtight glass container with a lid to retain its freshness. Avoid using metal containers or leaving it uncovered.
While pricking the chicken flesh, be careful not to overdo it. Piercing too much can result in tearing of the flesh or skin. You can slash the chicken with a knife to create enough surface area for the marinade to do its job.
You may want to use up all the prepared marinade by brushing any leftovers on the chicken or adding it to the curry later.
You can consider adding salt as it helps to soften the chicken by breaking down the muscle fibres. Also, a mix of salt and water may function as a self-styled brine making the chicken juicier and more flavourful.
You can give a quick whirl to your marinade in a blender so that the acids and fats mix smoothly.
It is advisable to discard any unused marinade as it can be a reason for food poisoning.
FAQs
Some of the frequently asked questions are:
1. How Long Should I Marinate Chicken?
Marinating chicken in an acidic or sour marinade for a very long time can turn the chicken mushy. For boneless chicken, two-hour marinating may be adequate. Ideally, you should not marinate for more than 6 hours.
2. Is It Okay to Marinate Chicken in Yoghurt Overnight?
Yes, it is okay to marinate the chicken in yoghurt overnight. Just place it in a refrigerator to preserve it well.
The secret to cooking a finger-licking good chicken dish lies in its marinating. You can enjoy lovely chicken curry or chicken tikka by treating the chicken with a perfectly blended marinade.
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Mom Who Went From 104 to 44 Kgs Reveals 8 Ways She Made It Possible!
Losing weight is never easy – but as moms we know, losing weight after pregnancy is perhaps the hardest! During the course of pregnancy and in the postpartum phase, women tend to put on a lot of weight. Losing this weight, especially around the belly region, can seem almost impossible. But Chan Vekaria, mom to a five-year old daughter, and her unbelievable weight loss from 104 Kgs to 44 Kgs prove that everything is possible if a mother so wishes!
Chan had always been on the overweight side. Before her wedding, she had an incentive to lose weight so she could look good for the big day. However, whatever weight she managed to lose came right back after the wedding. And then she became a mother to a baby girl. It only got harder and more and more impossible.
"Every time I went out to try and buy new clothes, it was a complete nightmare. I'd return home with nothing, as nothing in the popular high street stores fit me. I ended up ordering clothes online from stores, which specialised in plus sized clothing. I'd cut the labels out as soon as the clothes arrived so I didn't have to face looking at the size 24 tags.”
How Chan Got Motivated to Lose Weight
Like many of us, Chan too had probably resigned herself to her post-baby body. And then, one day, something happened that changed Chan’s life. It was the summer of 2009 and her daughter was five years old. She had taken her to the local park with her sister. And even though she was hot, she kept her jacket on.
“It was such a hot day, but I refused to take off my jacket. I waited by a bench sweating while the two of them had a great time. I remember my daughter kept looking over at me and calling me over, but I refused to go. The look of disappointment on her face will stay with me forever.
I felt like a failure as a mother. I was missing out on doing the fun things she wanted me to do with her because I was too lazy to do something about my weight…”
Chan’s Weight Loss Secrets Revealed
That day in the park, she decided enough was enough. She couldn’t bear to not be part of her daughter’s activities and enjoyment, just because she had a weight problem. Starting that day, she decided to get serious about losing weight. From then till now, she has gone from her highest weight of 104.7 kg to 43.9 kg, and looks amazingly fit!
Here Are The Weight Loss Secrets That Have Helped Her Achieve This Stupendous Goal
1. Make A Healthy Roti
Yes, even the regular roti we eat for lunch or dinner can become a weight loss companion. You just need to make it healthier. Chan shares a tip to make a healthy roti that’s packed with fibre and goodness and makes your metabolism speed up.
“At the weekends I make healthy roti by adding oats, flax seeds, and spinach into the dough. I have that with eggs or curry made from vegetables, soya or quorn. My family enjoy soya and quorn products so I try to add this in with any vegetable I am using that day to make a curry.”
2. Have Oats for Breakfast
Yes, oats really do live up to all that hype about weight loss! They are fibre-rich and contain no saturated fats which make you feel full but in a healthy way. This mom used to have oats for breakfast most of the time, with either fruit or nuts. She also had overnight oats made with almond milk, chia seeds, honey and berries.
3. Eat Steamed Vegetables
As Indians, we love to saute, shallow fry and deep fry our veggies. However, one little change can be a great change to boost weight loss: steaming! When you steam veggies, you are reducing the amount of fat intake because there will be minimal use of oil. However, all the nutrients of the vegetable will be intact. Chan ate a lot of steamed vegetables, especially broccoli and spinach. Here’s how she did this:
“I prepare a big batch of steamed vegetables and have that with either quinoa, couscous, eggs or a baked sweet potato. I also have some form of protein so either cottage cheese, or a yogurt.”
[caption id="attachment_167016" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/weight-loss/fat-buster-i-felt-like-a-failure-when-i-saw-my-daughter-disappointed/articleshow/56732643.cms[/caption]
4. Cut Back On Carbs At Night
We are often told that dinners should be light. However, in hectic lives where dinner is the one meal that the family has together, this can be difficult. But there’s one thing that you can do: reduce the amount of carbs you have at night (e.g. rice, roti, bread) and instead eat the curries or salads. To try to eliminate carbs in the evening, this mom has a curry with cauliflower rice or salad. Cauliflower, she says, is her favourite vegetable right now and she has used it to make pizza bases, hash browns, Frittata and patties.
5. Make Everyday Foods Healthier
The one big problem many of us have with eating healthy is the challenge of routine. With so much to do every day and so many meals to be made for the family, where is the time to create something especially healthy? Well, this mom has found a unique solution. All you have to do is to adapt your favourite foods so you can still enjoy them but with lower fat ingredients. Her favourite and easiest recipe for this is baked oats with berries, nuts and honey. But you can also do this with good old Indian food. For instance, if you’re a non-vegetarian, opt for fish rather than chicken or mutton as they have higher fats and are also tougher to digest. Check out more of these easy Indian food swaps to lose weight here.
6. Do a Mix of Exercise
Well, there’s no escaping this one – some exercise is essential to losing weight and keeping it from returning! However, it doesn’t have to be daunting. As moms, we already get a lot of exercise – think of all the walking, running, going up and down the stairs, mopping, washing…Apart from all this, try and see if you can get on a basic exercise schedule. Leave some days when you will not do any exercise, so as to remain motivated. Chan says, “I enjoy all forms of exercise so I incorporate a mixture. My training schedule is broken down so I get at least two days break before working for the same muscle group again. I have 1 rest day a week where I do not exercise at all.”
[caption id="attachment_167020" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/weight-loss/fat-buster-i-felt-like-a-failure-when-i-saw-my-daughter-disappointed/articleshow/56732643.cms[/caption]
7. Make Snacks and Desserts Healthy too
With all that focus on healthy eating, it is important to not deprive your body of all its cravings. So, if you have a sweet tooth, it is okay to indulge once in a while. However, this mommy suggests that we stick to healthy snacks that are delicious but also low on far. Chan’s favourite snack is homemade banana ice cream or energy bars. She makes the bars herself using dates and dry fruits to sweeten them up. You can also make your own fruit and nut bars using this simple recipe.
8. Pick Exercises That Don’t Feel Like Punishment
One reason many of us get scared of exercise is that they seem so daunting and strenuous. However, Chan says that there are many exercises we can choose from and they do not have to feel like punishment. She says, “Exercise for me is a reward for my body, not a punishment for what I ate. It's important to find exercises that you enjoy so that you are likely to keep doing them.”
So, how do you find an exercise that seems doable? To start out, we recommend these 17 exercises that need only 5 minutes. Trust us, they are really simple and even fun to do.
After finding out about this mommy’s journey, we can only say one thing – wow! She proves that if we only set our heart to something, and determine to reach a goal, we women can do anything we want. The best part is that her mantras are fairly easy to implement and can be done on a daily basis.
One Inspiration that Chan leaves us with - “Success is the sum of small efforts repeated day in, day out”
She says, "This is a quote I continue to live by today and will continue to promote to women all over the world. Success can be achieved by each and every one us. Be the woman that never gave up and decided to go for it."
Time to get started on our own health and fitness journey, moms, not just to lose weight but to feel happier, more confident, and teach our kids the importance of good health as well. Read more
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Q. #AskTheExpert hello dr.
baby planning kar rhi kuch tips btayiye conceive ho jaye
Dr Ghouse
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A. it's a natural process ok. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
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Q. when baby is kick? I'm 13 weeks pregnant
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Q. I’m in my 31 week 1 day of pregnancy. What will be my delivery date??
As I have low lying placenta with grade 1 maturity.
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Q. My hemoglobin is 6.4 from 28 weeks of pregnancy. Now I’m 31 weeks pregnant. What should I do?
Rashmi
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A. Haven’t when you having some kind of iron supplement because they’re very good during the time of pregnancy if you are not having one you need to start with and whatever tabs you take you should just take it with any good juice specially pomegranate juice that’s going to help in doubling the impact of the medicine that you’re taking secondly try and include more of Iron which diet like spinach broccoli beetroot pomegranate black rice sweet potato these things are exceptionally healthy for you to consume
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Q. This is my cbc report
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
6 hours ago
A. No there is nothing visible on my wall so I can really really cannot help you can you please repose the question once again providing all the necessary details as once I’m certain what are you talking about what’s mentioned in the report according to that I can provide you proper help on your question
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5 hours ago
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now I'm 24 weeks. Sometimes I'm feeling pain in my thigh.
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A. For thegh query asked needs consultation with doctor for proper guidance so it is better that the doctor will guide you the correct way .
Onlfine consultation can also be taken and the expert will give you the proper answer .
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