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Operations management: A promising option for MBA specialization

By
Shrutika Thete
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0

Have you heard that India’s supply chain will get a strong boost in upcoming years? This is because the pandemic has caused a downturn effect on the country’s economy. Due to this fact, people in every corner of the country are facing job loss and salary cuts. To improve this, the production of different things will start in India giving rise to more job opportunities mainly in manufacturing in the supply chain. This all is related to Operations Management which is in boon. It is a specialization from an MBA course. Operations Management is majorly concerned with planning, executing, and managing related to manufacturing, procurement, or technology. The end goal of operations management is making a product or a service that will satisfy customers. In this, it has mainly internal things to act mainly in supply chain management and logistics.

What skills are required for operations management?

Operations management: A promising option for MBA specialization

Anyone fond of problem-solving will do best in this stream. This is because it involves a detailed look into the processes and systems involved in the company where you will work with. Also, good decision-making power and analytical skills are important when you are a high level of the work area. Proper planning, implementation, designing, and leveraging the strategy is needed for a job role basically for an operations manager. There are plenty of other job roles that you can get by pursuing this career which requires a mix of creative skills and self-driving attitude.

Which are the top institutes for operations management?

Foreign Institutes

MIT Sloan School of Management located at Cambridge is the top-ranked business school for operations management. Other than this, HEC Paris in France; SDA Bocconi in Italy; Rotterdam School of Management in the Netherlands;  Alliance Manchester Business School in the UK stands the best institutes in this stream. To get admission into these prestigious colleges, you need to appear for the GMAT exam and score between 690-760. You can get benefits of joining these business schools like you can get salaries in the range of US$130,000 – US$175,000 and great exposure in terms of faculties and new technologies.

Indian Institutes

India has numerous management institutes that offer a degree in multiple formats as MBA, PGDM, MMS, PGDBM, and PGPM for Operations management. They all matter in a similar way when it comes to placements just the association or affiliation of the colleges differs. Top Indian Institutes for operations stream is XLRI, Jamshedpur followed by IIM, Bangalore; IIM Calcutta; NITIE, Mumbai; SP Jain, Mumbai; ISB, Hyderabad and SIOM, Nashik. The eligibility criteria for these colleges varies and is based on entrance test either XAT, CAT, GMAT, CMAT, or SNAP; GD/PI; academic performance. It will be cherry on the cake if you have added work experience. NITIE’s and SIOM’s fee is slightly less than other colleges, otherwise, the fees bracket is from 4 to 15 lacs.

After completing the first year, you have to do a summer internship where you will get exposed to the practical life of operations management. The matter of fact is that these colleges do offer and added advantage in terms of ROI for students. The salary ranges around 7 to 15 lacs per annum. Lately, there is a lot of competition for getting into these colleges. So, only if you study hard, you will be able to crack the entrance test. But not to worry there are other colleges like FORE, VGSoM, IIT Kharagpur, GLIM, JBIMS, Welingkar, and KJ Somaiya where you can guarantee good placements.

What are the core subjects in this stream?

Supply chain management

Operations management
Basic supply chain steps

The supply chain is a process of transforming the raw material into a finished good and then delivering it to the end customer. In the management of the supply chain, there are many basic things involved like procuring the raw materials, maintaining the cost sheet and bill of materials, production of goods and services, keeping the stock properly in the warehouse, then the logistics part which transfers the goods to customers.

Operations management
Automated warehouse

Here, there are methods to improve the efficiency and the effectiveness of the supply chain. For managing the inventory in the factory, you can leverage ABC Analysis, XYZ Analysis, and much more. Also, processes are getting automated and the power of artificial intelligence is utilized considerably in this industry 4.0 world. This has a ripple effect in the supply chain by creating an automated warehouse, Just in Case theories, Vendor Management Inventory, and Digital Manufacturing.

Lean Operations

Operations management
Jidoka being followed in Toyota Plant, Japan

Lean means to eliminate or reduce non-value adding activities. You will be able to learn various unique things in this subject. Lean operations focus to produce only what is needed and when required in the factory. Major types of waste identified in this area are overproduction, waiting, transport, inventory, motion, over-processing, and defects. The activities from the Toyota plant that follows the Toyota Production System (TPS). Also, Shigeo Shingo invented of Poka-yoke, Jidoka, and JIT (Just in Time). Kaizen means continuous improvement is a very crucial thing to understand in Lean. This is perfect to achieve productivity in any work you are in to be it in a factory or any IT firm.

Operations management
Implementing cellular layout

Other famous tools are SMED (Single minute exchange of die), Andon, Standardized work, Gemba (real place where activities take place) management, measurement of throughput time and takt time and Five S. In the manufacturing area, there are theories which can be learned and applied easily like Six sigma, Cellular layout, WIP (Work in progress), OEE, TQM, and TPM. Process capability, FMEA, and VSM are other important tools that are involved to improve in terms of problem-solving, quality, and cycle time.

Business process re-engineering (BPR)

Operations management
BPR Steps

This is a very interesting area that is mainly concentrated in the cross-functional processes in an organization instead of fragmented functional thinking. BPR is the fundamental rethinking and radical redesigning of business processes that leads to improvising the performance measures like cost, services, quality, and speed. You have to execute steps in BPR and also conduct process mapping and flow diagrams in terms of as-is (actual process) and to-be (expected process). In the to-be process, you mark the areas for making improvements. Most companies in the world are trying to leverage BPR in their departments but some of them are not able due to one most the major reason that is resistance to change.

Also Read The Most affordable University of America for Indian students

IT vertical

Operations management

The fast growth in the technological field has made the world a very better and fast-moving place. This growth is mainly due to the increase in the applications, use, and programming of computers in almost every field. So, if you are doing operations management and are inclined towards IT, this subject area is really best to opt for. You will get to answer the following questions:

  1. How IT has matured itself and has become the enabler?
  2. What are the Servoequal and designing business models?
  3. What is the detailed project management style for the organization by implementing CPM, Agile methodologies, SDLC frameworks, and so on?
  4. How IT strategy adds value to the company’s objective by decreasing cost and risks?
  5. Which are the business analysis steps, documentation, stakeholder analysis, object relationships, and so on?

Operations Research and Analytics

Operations management

You can use your analytical and critical thinking skills in this subject. More calculation and excels comes into the picture for solving the models like transportation, shortest path first, algebraic formulations, simplex method, Least Cost Method (LCM), Vogel’s Approximation Method (VAM) and much more. In analytics, you will have to apply a statistical approach to find mean, median, moving average, and errors to predict the demand of the goods. Other terminologies include:

  1. CPRF (Collaborating, planning, and forecasting) by keeping the buffer stock to plan ahead of the demand in uncertain conditions to avoid stock-outs. Profit is analyzed in the end and compared with a method that does not integrate CPFR.
  2. Strategies and resource allocation: Actual and expected demand is taken into consideration. The production activity is basically divided into 4 types based on in-house and sub-contracting to find which is profitable.
  3. JIT: It is analyzed by taking a situation where there are not only multiple distributors but also multiple products. The ratio of production is taken and thereby it helps the company to understand which distributor and product have to be taken care of at first go.

Also Read Do you know the difference between business analysis and business analytics?

Production, Planning, and Control

Operations management

This area mainly deals with the practical application of managing resources, capital, labor in operations. It includes topics like

  1. Integrated Production planning techniques and Production layout types
  2. Finding the Capital/System/Labour Productivity
  3. Evaluating the sales forecast and eventually find the total cost by level and chase capacity planning.  
  4. Working on Efficiency, Utilization, and capacity.
  5. Line balancing by calculating the cycle time and idle time.
  6. Job scheduling methods by leveraging average completion time, delay time, number of jobs, and efficiency.
  7. Exponential smoothening and regression techniques.

ERP (Enterprise resource management)

Operations management

Nowadays, ERP is used by 80% of the companies in the world and is considered the backbone of businesses. This topic deals with the functionality of ERP and tools required to tailor ERP systems. It is a very significant tool to manage day-to-day business activities such as accounting, project management, procurement, supply chain operations, risk management, and compliance. You will also learn how ERP is used to make faster decisions for multiple departments. This is because data is managed through one single tool. Every transaction is tracked in this tool and also helps in supplying real-time information.  

What additional certification you can do?

Doing some good courses online and offline mode will make your resume more presentable. It will be an added advantage and you will stand out of the enormous crowd. You can prefer doing certifications listed below:

  1. Lean Six Sigma (for manufacturing opportunities)
  2. PMP Project Management Professional
  3. Certified ScrumMaster (CSM)
  4. AMA Certificate in Analytical Skills
  5. IIBA certification (for Business Analysis)

What are the job profiles and sectors you get after pursuing this?

Operations management

You can get various job options in sectors mainly like:

  1. Manufacturing
  2. Retail
  3. Consulting Firms
  4. Banking and Finance
  5. Hospitality
  6. Construction
  7. Information Technology
  8. Supply Chain
  9. E-Commerce
  10. Logistics

There are a plethora of job roles which you can opt for:

  1. Supply Chain Manager: They play a very important role in building up relationships with the vendors of their company. Overall, they work on increasing efficiency, effectiveness, and productivity.
  2. Logistics Manager: They perform tasks in order to strengthen business developmental activities. They also ensure proper customer satisfaction and sustainability. They are liable to work in the process of monitoring, storing, organizing, and distribution of the goods.
  3. Consultant: They might have a huge workload on them but their analytical skills help everywhere. They majorly offer advice to the companies to improve their business processes in terms of operations, strategy, and so on.
  4. Business Analyst: They identify the business needs first and then try to find the solutions for business problems. In this process, they work on numerous documents, conduct research, communicate with clients, and do the critical analysis.
  5. Inventory Control Manager: These managers are responsible for managing the tasks related to inventory like coordinating and planning the scheduling, production control, inventory management, and material planning. They are also responsible for managing different inventory levels for products and raw materials.
  6. Operations Manager: An operations manager is a prime member of the company’s management team. He/She manages the high-level HR duties, like assigning the training standards and hiring schedules. Also, plays tole to improve organizational processes, and improve quality, efficiency, and productivity.
  7. Business Process Engineer/Manager: They play a role to define, implement, and maintain the functional business processes to meet business objectives. Sometimes, they even have to work with other process engineers by making a cross-functional team to find new opportunities in the business.
  8. Plant Manager: The key role of these managers is to oversee all daily operations of the plant basically from production and manufacturing. They are also responsible to check about the policies and procedures of their plant. Sometimes, they can develop processes inclining towards quality, stewardship, safety, and productivity.

Companies like Cognizant, Accenture, L&T, KPMG, EY, Novartis, Amazon, TCS, and much more come for recruitment during the placements seasons of the colleges. If you select Operations Management as your specialization in MBA, it will be an extremely productive twist in your life. You will be able to apply your skills, relearn value-added things and unlearn the nonvalue added things. Make sure you give your best shot and achieve your goal.

Top 10 reasons that make Fox Nuts a healthy treat for your body

By
Shrutika Thete
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0

You might have come across white fluffy puffs at your home. These puffs are none another than fox nuts which have numerous other names like makhanas, Euryale Ferox, gorgon nuts, lotus seeds, and phool makhana. These nuts are majorly grown in Bihar and Manipur when concerned with India. Other countries like Korea, China, Japan, and Russia are also into the farming of the fox nuts.

Interestingly, they are part of lotus flower’s stem. The stems are cut and the seeds which appear green at first are collected and processed further by frying that turns into the real white-colored makhana. Superfood fox nuts have high protein, carbohydrates, and fiber content. The most amazing thing about them is that they contain very low fat content. So, they are the best choice for health-conscious people. Lately, they have become a popular snack food and also part of some delicious Indian cuisines. This is all because of their crunchy taste (when they get roasted) and loads of nutritional value.

Check out these 10 Superb Health Benefits of Fox Nuts!

1. Good for Heart

Fox nuts contain a high quantity of glycosides in them that gives them antioxidant properties. Also, they are rich in potassium and magnesium but low amount of sodium. This in turn justifies that the heart patients must have a good intake of these lotus seeds. They help to lower the blood pressure and the cholesterol level as they have negligible fats in them. They definitely help to reduce the risk of heart diseases like arrhythmia and myocardial ischemia. Due to the high content of magnesium, they help to improve the flow of oxygen and blood in the body and can prevent the risk of heart attacks too.

2. Role of anti-aging agent

These nuts are the most effective anti-aging food due to the presence of abundance anti-oxidants. They contain a flavonoid called kaempferol that helps to decrease the aging effect such as greying of hair, hair loss, acne, and wrinkles. A handful of makhanas every day will surely make you look young and make your skin healthy and glow. But you should ensure that must not always be consumed as a fried snack.

3. Help in weight-loss

Top 10 reasons that make Fox Nuts a healthy treat for your body

Are you planning to put down weight? Eat fox nuts and see its magical effect. Makhanas have low calorie and saturated fats which make them a perfect weight-loss snack. The presence of the right amount of protein won’t make you feel hungry for a long time after you eat these healthy snacks. With this, you can control your overeating habit for sure.

4. Make you feel energetic

Fox nuts have the fantastic property of having a low glycemic index (GI). So, they gradually release the energy levels inside your body. Thereby, by default, you stay energetic throughout the day. This property will also make you feel stress-free and you get healthier. Also, if you have a protein deficiency, do eat makhanas daily that will make you fit.

5. Boost the digestive system

The high fiber content and antioxidant properties make fox nuts a crucial part of one’s digestive health. Are you worried about indigestion at times? If you eat makhanas regularly, it will surely help in regular bowel movement. They also play a beneficial role in improving the blood flow to the kidneys and prevent excessive or frequent urination.

Fox nuts are plus point for those who suffer from wheat allergies as Fox nuts are ABSOLUTELY gluten-free!

6. Increase bone strength

Fox nuts are indeed an elite source of calcium and minerals. These puffed cute nuts will improve your bones, reduce the chances of getting bone injuries, and also fight diseases like osteoporosis. They are also used to combat the effect of arthritis and are one of the traditional remedies for it.

7. Control blood sugar level

Top 10 reasons that make Fox Nuts a healthy treat for your body

These small nuts are a blend of the high amount of carbohydrates, proteins, and low amount of glycemic. This fact makes them suitable to manage one’s blood sugar levels. It is interesting to note that the fibrous content in makhanas helps to release the carbs slowly in the intestines. This significantly helps to avoid a postprandial spike in the blood sugar levels. They are the very right food to have for someone who has to fight diabetes and obesity.

8. Act as detoxifying agents

Fox nuts act as super agents to flush out the harmful toxins from the body. Do you know about Spleen? Spleen functions to filter the blood and removes damaged RBCs. Lotus seeds play an important role in detoxifying the spleen and solving its issues, which in turn helps to detox the blood. Also, through this, it will improve the entire respiratory system. Moreover, it will also reduce the problems linked with insomnia.

9. Prevent fertility issues

Makhanas are aphrodisiac in nature and are considered as a prime element to improve the fertility rates in females and semen count in males. In females, issues of irregular periods can also be solved by eating these nuts daily. Also, they are natural hydrants, consuming these regularly will help your body to keep moisturized.

10. Improve nerve functioning

Lotus seeds do contain high amount thiamine content. So, the consumption of makhanas will help you to sustain the cognitive function of the nerves in a much better way. Makhanas also helps to generate acetylcholine, and thus, they contribute in the process of neurotransmission.

Top 10 reasons that make Fox Nuts a healthy treat for your body
Top 10 reasons that make Fox Nuts a healthy treat for your body

There are few side effects of these lotus seeds if you consume them excessively and also can trigger allergies in people. But seeing their considerable intake, makhanas are common to eat during the fasting period. The most common recipe is to roast in ghee/oil and adding some haldi, masalas, pepper, chilli, and salt. Otherwise, you can also try making sumptuous recipes like makhana masala chaat, curry, kheer, tikki, and so on.

Makhanas are recommended dietary supplement by many dieticians and you can easily buy them from your nearby grocery store. They have a great shelf life and thereby can be stored for months in an air-tight jar. Make sure that you keep them away from direct sunlight and also away from moist places. So, grab some fox nuts and turn fit as a fiddle!

6 Evidence-Based Health Benefits Of Oregano

By
Riya
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0
dried oregano

Oregano is a staple herb from the native land particularly known as the Lamiaceae, which is basically from the mint family. For thousands of years, it has been used by people to add flavoring to dishes. As well as to treat a few health conditions. This authentic herb primarily features in Mediterranean cuisines both in the fresh and dried forms. It consists of a strong flavor that brings warmth to cuisines to which it has been added. Not only this, but it also gives a hint of fine sweetness as well. You may have known this from adding to pizzas as well as pasta sauces for seasoning purposes. However, there are various varieties of oregano that exist. But among all of these the most common variety widely used is the Oregano Vulgare, commonly known as Spanish Thyme and Wild Marjoram.

6 Evidence-Based Health Benefits Of Oregano

From ancient times, the Greeks and the Romans associate Oregano with ‘joy’ and ‘happiness’. And here the name originates. As such the Greek words “oras” hold the meaning as the mountain and “ganos” with a meaning of joy. Other than adding as a supplement to diets this authentic herb has been used as an aromatic oil as well.

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Few nutritional values bound with Oregano

6 Evidence-Based Health Benefits Of Oregano

What’s here? Just about 1 teaspoon of oregano can consummate about 8% of your every day Vitamin K requirement. Oregano is jam-packed with numerous vital antioxidants. These are thymol, limonene, terpinene, carvacrol, ocimene, and caryophyllene which gives the herb it’s impactful flavor and strong scent. Not only this, but these are also the main components that are responsible for the health benefits associated with this herb. For centuries, oregano has been used in various herbal medicines to treat lots of ailments. Some of these are muscle aches, colds, cramps, indigestion, skin sores, and asthma. Although, there are a few scientific shreds of evidence that exist in this field. And of course, a lot more is still there to be accomplished. 

Nevertheless, there still exist a few evidence-based health benefits confederated with oregano. And that’ll certainly be enough to make you add this nutrient-piled herb to your day-to-day diet regime. This article outlines the 6 evidence-based health benefits of Oregano that you must know. But before moving on to these in details, will jot down these 6 significant benefits of this conventional herb like the following:

  • May aid to fight bacteria
  • Highly loaded with antioxidants
  • May accommodate anti-cancer properties
  • Embody anti-inflammatory properties thus may aid to relieve inflammation
  • Super easy as an add-on to your meals
  • May help to cut back on viral infection

Things being what they are, let’s have a comprehensive understanding about each one of these in particulars.

Also read What Will Happen To Your Body If You Start Eating Oats Every Single Day

1. May aid to fight bacteria

Oregano comprises certain elements that possess a few commanding antibacterial properties. Test-Tube studies reveal that oregano along with some of its accompaniments may be effective to fight against certain strains of bacteria. However, there are minimal scientific studies in this domain that is mainly limited to test-tube studies. Furthermore, these have been conducted using the concentrated amounts of this authentic herb. 

Likewise, a test-tube study was processed in this field. In which the antimicrobial properties of three primary herbs were being compared and those were of sage, thyme, and oregano essential oils. You’ll be quite convinced to know the outcomes. The Oregano was found to be the most beneficial essential oils at odds with bacteria, second to thyme. Not only that, but Oregano was also found to be effective against a total of 23 species of unhealthy bacteria. Finally yet importantly the two common chains of bacteria specifically known as Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia Coli. These’re substantially responsible for causing infection, the essential oils of oregano help to block the growth of these too.

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2. Highly loaded with antioxidants

6 Evidence-Based Health Benefits Of Oregano

Undoubtedly, oregano is among one of the herbs that are highly rich in antioxidants. These vital constituents that help fight damage develop from the injurious free-radicals in the body. It’s not just a testimonial to be believed on. A few test-tube studies showcase that oregano as well as it’s essential oil contains high amounts of antioxidants. These antioxidants mainly help to defend against damage by neutralizing disease-causing free radicals. These buildup of free radicals are extremely unhealthy for health. As these form the basis to the linkage of chronic diseases namely cancer and heart illnesses. In comparison with other nutrient-dense fruits and vegetables, oregano can provide an exuberant dose of antioxidants that may help to uplift your overall well-being.

3. May accommodate anti-cancer properties

As already addressed earlier, oregano is high in antioxidants, and these components not only help to compensate for radical damage. But they could even aid in cancer interception. Some of the studies reveal that oregano along with its few subcomponents may help to counteract the cancer cells. One test-tube study even proclaims that the oregano extract has been proved successful in the treatment of colon cancer cells. The study discovered that it blocked-up the growth of cancer cells and at the same time helped finish them off. Another test-tube study conducted shows that the antioxidant carvacrol in oregano, further benefits clamp down on the growth and extension of colon cancer cells in humans.

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4. Embody anti-inflammatory properties thus may aid to relieve inflammation

6 Evidence-Based Health Benefits Of Oregano

Inflammation can be termed as a normal immune response. This basically develops as a consequence of any type of injury or illness. Oregano is extremely high in antioxidant content, which in return aids to relieve inflammation. However, the studies that have been conducted in this province used a comparatively highly concentrated dose of this herb. And so to prove these benefits satisfactorily, studies are needed to pick out the best suitable appropriate portion of oregano. 

5. May help to cut back on viral infection

Besides fighting off bacteria, some test-tube studies have also revealed that the components of oregano proved to safeguard against viral viruses. Test-tube studies disclose that the two antioxidants carvacrol and thymol have shown to decrease the activity of unhealthy viruses. In fact, these two components have been attested to incapacitate 90% of the herpes simplex virus within just one hour. To put it concisely, carvacrol and thymol are the two compounds in oregano that are proven to be accompanied by antiviral properties.

Also read 5 Useful Strategies To Stop Overeating From The Very Next Meal

6. Super easy as an add-on to your meals

6 Evidence-Based Health Benefits Of Oregano

Although you have come across this staple herb many times. Oregano has been set apart solely for pizzas, pasta sauces, and almost in all the Italian cuisines. But this versatile herb can additionally be used in several other ways as well. If you want to stuff yourself with a nutrient-packed salad, the oregano leaves go best with the other leafy stuff. Or you may even sprinkle them into your soups or curries. Oregano can be used as a seasoning to marinate non-veg items. It can even be used to lift the taste of your homemade sauces. Oregano is available either fresh, dried or as an oil, and hence it provides a quite extensive range of uses.

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Assamese Cuisines That Make Your Taste Buds Drooling!!

By
Dipshikha
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0
food recipes

Be a rich or a poor guy, food always share a unique bond with each one of you. The necessity of food remains the same. Though your style of food cuisine might change.  So, trying different cuisines, knowing a different culture is fun right? Thus it is interesting to note that even the same plain rice cooked at your home today can be cooked in like thousands of varieties in various part of India. Each state comes up with something unique. That’s the beauty of a diversified country like India. And such a diversified state with its Northeastern ethnicity as well as beauty is Assam.

Assam will replenish you with the right kind of flavours. To surely tickle your taste buds! Delicacies with that extra tinge of Assamese herbs and flavours will surely leave you craving for even more and more.

1. MASOR TENGA – AN ASSAMESE EMOTION!

Want to have something super drooling for hot summers? Try this. I am sure you will love it. This evergreen dish of Assam is made of fish and everything sour. The dish is quite simple. Marinate the fish with salt and turmeric and then fry it in hot oil.  Then slowly cook it in a rich, tangy gravy made with tomato, some potatoes(optional), outenga (elephant ear), and some lemon to add that extra tinge. And have it with some rice. It’s pure bliss. Being a hosteller, Masor tenga just makes me homesick!

2. KHAAR – THE EPIC ASSAMESE FLAVOUR!

Khar is a delicious signature class Assamese cuisine. It is made by filtering water through ashes of the sun-dried skin of a few varieties of banana. Traditionally we call it kola khaar. Well, but that’s just the khaar. You then need to prepare the whole curry from it. And for ingredient you can then add raw papaya, mustard leaves, vegetables, pulses, fish or any other non-veg main ingredient. Have it with rice. It is tempting!

3. ALOO PITIKA- THE COMFORT FOOD!

This comfort side dish is a popular one that you’d find in any Assamese platter. Just Boil or roast the potatoes. Then you have to mash it up. Mix it with little raw mustard oil, finely chopped green chillies and some onions. And then you are good to eat it up! This Assamese cuisine is simple, easy and very satisfying I must say.

4. DOI CHIRA – THE FESTIVE MARKER!

This traditional local dish is mostly prepared during festive Bihu celebration in Assam. Bihu is the main festival of Assam. But one can have it daily for breakfast as well. Moist flattened rice is then mix with curd, cream and jaggery. You might be thinking this to be a dessert but it is not so.

5. PITHA- THE YUMMY RICE CAKES

Pitha is a unique form of rice cake, mainly prepared on a festive occasion. But you can eat it at breakfast or even with your evening tea. The preparation of this dish is very unique in style with precision. Lot of varieties of pithas are prepared in Assam. Made either fried, toasted or just hand-rolled, these sweet and savoury dish is an essential part of Assamese tradition and culture.

6. PORK WITH LAIXAAK – THE ETERNAL LOVE!

Hey, pork lovers have you ever tried this? Roasted or boiled pork is the common and also the main ingredient in this cuisine. Laixaak is nothing but a unique form of green leafy spinach. Next time you visit Assam do try this.  Though looks very unusual combination. But pork tastes brilliant when paired with this Saag. Try it out if you love pork!

Also Read Instant Khaman Dhokla Recipe With Special Green Chutney | Easy, Soft, And Spongy

7. POITA BHAAT – TYPICAL FARMER’S BREAKFAST!

Poita Bhat is a simple Assamese farmer’s breakfast. So, commonly seen in the rural household of Assam. Ferment the rice overnight by adding some water to it. And the next day you can have it by seasoning it with raw mustard oil, salt and some green chillies. And to add on top of it you can also have some aloo pitika with it. Aloo pitika is the assamese recipe of mashed potato. Hope you remember guys? (Well the one, which I have discussed above)

8. XAAK BHAJI – ASSAMESE HERB DISH!

Xaak can be named as the herbal side dish for any Assamese platter. Finely chop it and fry it in mustard oil. Season it with ginger, garlic, cinnamon, onions and sometimes lemon. It is a staple form of food of Assam. It is purely healthy and flavoursome too!

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9. MAAS POORA – THE EXOTIC FISH CUISINE!

Tiny river fishes wrapped and steamed in banana leaf.  And later garnished with chopped onion, coriander and fresh green chillies. This is one of a traditional Assamese way to prepare the fish item. Also, can’t talk enough about its health benefits! Fish lovers it’s a must-have!

10. DUCK WITH KUMURA- ETHNIC DELICACY OF ASSAM!

Locally called “haa”, duck is one of the most popular meats consumed by Assamese folks. The white gourd is the choice ingredient because its natural aroma complements the duck. Marinate the duck with seasonal vegetable and duck. As well as prepare the gravy. Serve it with rice, the staple food of Assam. It is very good for winters and monsoons.

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11. PARO MANXHO – MEAT DELICACY OF ASSAM

Pigeon meat complemented by Koldil or Banana flower is another popular delicacy among these folks. Pigeon meat is known to keep your body warm in winters and thus preferred to be eaten during winters. It might sound unusual to some of you guys. But this cuisine is very popular among Assamese folks!

 

12. OU TENGA- ZESTY ASSAMESE FLAVOUR!

Assamese food trends in the production of tangy and savoury items. Ou Tenga is a sour and sweet chutney served among Assamese folks. It is made mainly of jaggery and elephant apple. Guys, you should give it a try. The sweet savoury taste of it melts your taste buds away. So, it does gives that extra tickling sensation to your taste buds. Thus, it perfectly compliments any meal!

13. PAAN TAMUL- TRADITIONAL OFFERING!

Offering Paan Tamool( areca nut) to guests, after tea or meals in a brass plate with stands called bota is common. This is an inbuilt tradition in Assam. During religious and marriage ceremonies or any other occasion, it is regarded as a welcome offering. So next time when you visit Assam, you will get to have a glimpse of this tradition.  

14. MATI MAHOR DAALI- PURE ASSAMESE BLISS !

Roasted black gram dal is washed. Then boil it in a pressure cooker. On getting boiled, add kol khar to it. Daal is boiled further with the lid of the pressure cooker open. Now add ginger garlic paste to it. After boilng for 10 more mins the dal is ready.

Well, next time you visit Assam, do try some of this awesome recipes. You will surely love it!

Top 10 Latest Parental control Apps

By
Kavya Gupta
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0

It’s implied that kids nowadays have more access to advanced innovation than any generation in humanity’s history. Regardless of whether its PCs, TVs, tablets, and cell phones, a large number of our kids are presented to innovation since early on, in some cases as youthful as two years of age, with a normal lounging around six and a half hours daily. Are you sure that this smartphone is a boon for your children? Does your child also hide his/her phone when you enter their room? You require one of the best parental monitoring apps for your kid’s smartphone. The best parental control apps offer various ways to limit the time spent on devices, track usage and location, restrict tasks, and block apps or games.

Net Nanny Parental Control App

It is the best Parental Control App, as per Tom’s Guide.

With this Net Nanny Parental Control app for screen time parenting, you will have a proper management of whatever is going on and in the right way, frauds and bad influences.

Net Nanny’s amazing new Family Feed provides:

  • Instant reporting of Internet
  • explorations
  • Immediate alerts that your baby may have viewed sex entertainment, Drugs, Weapons, Suicide, or other unusable content.

Supported OS – Android and iOS

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Kaspersky Safe Kids

Kaspersky Safe Kids gives you more than standard parental control measures to make parenting a more natural process. 

Apart from allowing you to block unhealthy content, manage device and app use, and find out instantly about any kind of suspicious online behavior, it also provides you with the ability to locate your kids on a map and helps them to make sure that the location shared is good. This App gives you access to such an extent that you can manage to control as much as you want with this amaizng app on the line. It gives you way more than standard parental control measures to make parenting easier. 

Supported OS – Windows/ MacOS/ iOS/ Android

ESET Parental Control

This amazing app encompasses all features of restricting and keeping track of your child’s smartphone, then you need not worry now, ESET Parental Control offers seamlessly beneficial features.

ESET has a decent parental monitoring app. Its free version offers limiting time on games, app blocking, and basic reporting. Although it’s premier version has a lot more features, including website tracking, location tracking, parental messaging, and a detailed version of the report of what your ward is doing.

Supported OS – Android

OurPact

OurPact is a breakthrough app that combines all the features of screen time parental control app, app blocker, website blocker GPS locator, kid tracker, and family locator that enables parents to manage their family’s screen time and locate them.

It comprises of the following fantastic features.

  • Blocks/Grants
  • Schedules
  • Block Apps
  • Geofencing with Places
  • Screen Time Allowance
  • App List
  • Block Texting
  • Block/Allow Websites
  • New App Alerts
  • Family Locator
  • Phone Tracker
  • Kid Tracker

Supported OS – Android and iOS

Norton Family Parental Control

Being one of the safest parental monitoring software Norton Family Parental Control covers all kinds of features that a monitoring app can provide, and it works best for parents who have more than one kid. The following are the attention snatching features of this software.

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  • Instant Lock
    • Search Supervision
    • Web Supervision
    • Parental Alerts
    • Location Supervision
    • App Supervision
    • Time Supervision
    • Video Supervision
    • Activity Report

Supported OS – Windows/ Mac OS/ iOS/ Android

Web Watcher

Web watcher provides a clear and easy to use interface. You can spy on your kid’s chats, images, location, and even deleted texts. This App holds for some particular apps, including Tinder, Whatsapp, TikTok, Viber, etc. You can also set time limits and take screenshots of your kid’s phone. This feature of this App makes it very different from other similar apps and even more useful.

The only thing where you can get a pause is its cost. Its packages start from $130 per year per device.

Supported OS – Android and iOS

Family Time Parental Controls & Screen Time App

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This App lets you monitor and control your child’s mobile, tablet, or other Android devices in a very secure manner. This App revolves around the base idea of the safety and security of your loved ones. The key features include.

  • Daily App Limit
    • Schedule Screen Time
    • App Blocker
    • Location Tracker
    • Monitor Phone Usage
    • SOS/Panic Alerts
    • Reports
    • Pick Me Up
    • Co-parenting
    • Safe Drive

Supported OS – Android and iOS

Screen Time – Restrain yourself

As the title only suggests that this App focuses on limiting the screen time of yours and your children. You can very easily decide for how much duration your child should watch or use his/her mobile phone. This keeps them from getting addicted to cell phones and restrict the negative impacts of them in one’s life. Features of this App include.

Supported OS – Windows/ Mac OS/ iOS/ Android

Qustodio Parental Control

It lets you set time limits on all devices.

Qustodio lets you set time limits individually on all devices and all apps. It has been observed to help families who have younger children, teenagers, and also adults with disabilities make healthy and there are some of the responsibilities which are managed with this amazing app online, therefore allowing them to enjoy life usually and stay focused on their daily chores.

It offers a dashboard where you can see all the recent activities if there selected devices. Their only drawback is that it is a bit expensive, around $55.

Supported OS – Windows/ Mac OS/ iOS/ Amazon tablets/ Android

MM Guardian

Top 10 Latest Parental control Apps

MM Guardian comprises nearly all parental monitoring features that one can need, but its interface is quite outdated and frustrating to work on. It offers location tracking and excellent web filtering as well. 

Supported OS – Android and iOS

Final Note

When it comes to children, parents try and do whatever they can to keep that out of bad influences and addicting apps/games. With so many useful options available, it becomes straightforward to keep a good hold on your little ones. Instead of all these apps, still, our favourite App would be Net Nanny Parental Control, all thanks to its smooth and easy to work interface and availability of so many features in just one little App.

Top 10 Habits That Can Help You To Have A Quick Weight Loss

By
Riya
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0

There are numerous ways to lose weight quickly. However, most of the diet plans either leave you feeling hungry or unsatisfied. Nonetheless, there are many other reasons why you find it hard to stick to a diet. Not all the diets have this effect although most have. Low carb diets are more compelling if you want to lose weight fast. Moreover, they are easier to stick on. Not all of us have the best eating habits. However, if you can recognize what you are doing wrong, it can empower you to bring a transformation to your usual eating patterns.

Based on Science pieces of evidence, there are 3 simple steps for a fast weight loss plan that employs a low carb diet and aims to these following spikes :

  • Unquestionably cut down/lower your appetite.
  • Induce rapid weight loss.
  • Boost your metabolic health concurrently.

Also read 5 Useful Strategies To Stop Overeating From The Very Next Meal

weight loss

So, here’s the question: ” how to lose weight fast? “Dieticians often recommend that shuffling off bad eating habits and replacing them with good habits is the key necessity to lose weight rapidly. That too without following any kind of strict diet regime or performing a full-blown workout at the gym. It might sound too good to be true, right? But the reality is this. You can indeed drop a few pounds in no time if you commit yourself as well as to your body to accompany these simple powerful and useful top 10 habits to lose weight briskly. And if you take on an overall healthy lifestyle, the benefits will only be multiplied. In the end, you’re gonna have a healthier body and a stronger spirit. Let’s dive into the theory and see exactly what you should and shouldn’t do to lose that extra fat for good.

1. Hold off from foods labeled as “fat-free”

low fat butter cubes

You might be having those fat-free foods without any guilt as such, but you need to start avoiding them foremost if you don’t want to gain that extra pounds of weight unnecessarily. Sounds awful? But the truth is that to replace fats, these edibles are loaded with low-performing carbs. These carbs get assimilated rapidly by your stomach and the feeling of hunger instantly comes back again and again. Studies reveal that people who eat up more “fat-free” foods than the others found up less-filling. Therefore, they ended up eating more; time and again to satisfy their appetite. In this way, you will eat more to fill your stomach culminating in additional weight gain.

2. Avoid drinking coffee on an empty stomach

Sipping hot cup of coffee in early morning

If you’re in the habit of having coffee as your first thing in the morning, then you must definitely shun it off. Because unknowingly you’re doing damage to your body by drinking coffee in an empty stomach. As when coffee interacts with an empty stomach, it builds up acid that may damage your stomach lining and thus results in indigestion. Moreover, coffee stretches your body out causing it to store unnecessary fats. Although caffeine boosts up your metabolism, it should not be consumed in an empty stomach.

3. Get good sleep of 6-8 hours every day

Women sleeping at the work place

Research shows that people who sleep 5 or fewer hours than that per day, bring off over 2 times unnecessary belly fat compared to those who get an average sleep of 6-8 hours a night. This fact is undoubtedly true for people under 40 years of age. Not sleeping as much as you should, makes you sense hunger intermittently even though you’re not. And that’s because lesser sleep causes the secretion of cortisone, a hormone that is mainly liable to regulate the appetite.

Also read Here’re Top 10 Things That Happen To Your Body If You Walk Every Day

4. Step aside down on the soda

Coke

Do you know a regular 12 ounces of soda contains 140 calories and 39 grams of sugar? That means if you consume even 1 can of soda per day, you will sooner or later start putting on that extra weight. So, if you’re in the habit of having soda, the A-1 thing is that you must cut down on the intake of it; if you want to lose weight adequately. Research shows that women who reduced their soda intake at the most 1 can a week, lost 1 pound of weight more as compared to those who didn’t cut back on these sugary kinds of stuff including soft drinks and much more.

Soda and soft drinks cans

5. Initiate at least 1 meal in a day with some light salad

a healthy bowl of salad

Plain light salads consisting of fresh spinach, lettuce leaves, and other leafy vegetables without any sorts of fatty dressings actually help you to eat less as this fills you up more. Opt for fiber-rich salads which not only boosts up your metabolism but also aids in effective weight loss. A study conducted showed that people who were given light salads right before their meal consumed 7-12% less of their meals. This proves that having light salads before having your meals stops you from needless binge eating by making you fill to the half or quarter-half.

6. Make a habit to take same-sized portions of your meals

Small sized portion of pancakes

It is recommended that you should try to base your meals with whole foods that are high-protein and fiber-rich of same-sized portions. As whole foods are more filling, healthier, and hence restrains you to overeat than the processed ones. Nutritionists suggest that when you eat larger portions of your meals, then your body tends to store those extra calories in the form of weight-building fats since it doesn’t have any other options with the extra ones. Rather than eating 1 larger portion of a meal at once, replace it with 5 smaller parts of it. Those big sizes tend to slow down your metabolism which in turn causes you to gain unnecessary weight. 

Also read Apple Cider Vinegar | Proven Benefits, Dosage, Uses, And Probable Risks

7. Restrict your eating to definite time slots

wall clock

It is often being said that you must have your dinner before or at max 8:00 pm.Undoubtedly this is not just a saying, yup there are some scientific facts behind this one too. Despite how many meals you have in a day, if you have that last one before 8:00 pm, you’re gonna still consume a lesser number of calories altogether. Research shows that scheduling your food intake might help you to lose weight effectively. People who eat lunch later between 3-4 pm lose lesser weight than those who have theirs by 1:30 pm. Therefore, you should make a habit of a balanced eating schedule which in turn results in satiating your appetite before you get more hungry. In this way, you won’t end up overeating the next time when you sit to have your meal.

8. Cutaway from “after-dinner treats”

Top 10 Habits That Can Help You To Have A Quick Weight Loss

We all crave for that tempting sweet dessert after having dinner. Most people do specifically right after having a full-packed dinner. And of course, that little treat usually comes in the form of a sweet delicious dessert. Rather, you should make a habit of drinking some fluid such as water instead of reaching for a sugary snack. Not because it causes unnecessary weight gain but the fact is your body doesn’t need it. However, it is recommended that you should not consume anything right after a meal as your body receives all the sugar it needs right away from the food you intake. And if you constantly give your sweet tooth for once instead, then that extra sugar intake will cause nothing but needless weight gain. Nevertheless, you can treat yourself with the other healthy options that are mainly combined with natural sweeteners.

Also read Top 10 Habits That Will Boost Up Your Digestive Health

9. Avoid drinking water from plastic bottles

Top 10 Habits That Can Help You To Have A Quick Weight Loss

Have you ever thought of it before? Yup, the fact is drinking water from plastic bottles can actually be fattening because of the chemical compound named BPA contained in the plastic bottles. Believe it or not, but this is true based upon the researchers conducted at Washington State University. The research shows that the compound BPA in the plastic bottles causes a feeling of fatigue after being contaminated in the blood. Further, this agitates your hormone levels and makes you put more weight. Want to know what’s even more alarming? Studies prove that BPA scales down insulin sensitivity which in turn accelerates the formation of Adipocyte, the fat cells. In fact, 90% of people who drink bottled water have traces of BPA in their blood.

10. Sit quietly and eat your meals slowly: don’t watch TV or listen to music while eating

Eating while working on laptop

Eating speedily may result in weight gain over time while on the other hand eating slowly makes you feel more filler and even promotes the secretion of weight-reducing hormones. Research reveals that overweight people who reduced their TV time by 50% while eating burn an average of over 119 more calories per day. Also, some studies show that people who ate while listening to music consumed significantly larger amounts of portions than those who ate quietly without any distractions. This is because your mind is already preoccupied with the distractions going on in the surrounding environment. Significantly, your mind doesn’t realize you have eaten enough more than that required.

You may even check on to this one: Healthy Smoothie Recipes For Effective Weight Loss

Skipping: The easiest workout which you can do at home

By
Shrutika Thete
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0

Worried sitting at home and not able to hit the gym or go for a jog? If yes, you need not worry now. All you can start doing is one of the most efficient ways to be fit that is “Skipping”. Skipping is done with the help of jumping rope. This rope is generally made up of cotton or nylon and available in different varieties. Skipping is the best workout for all fitness levels. You can start doing it at your own pace and practice to get more advanced. So, in this pandemic, if you are thinking of you being lazy or going on a wild goose chase, adopt this exercise and feel its benefits!

How to start skipping properly?

Skipping: The easiest workout which you can do at home

If you are a beginner, purchase a beaded or licorice jump rope as it is durable and relatively moves slowly. Once you get used to it in a month, try to opt for a speed rope. Also, the rope’s length for the beginners should be longer as it allows them to catch the perfect time to jump back again. To check the length of the rope, put your foot in the middle of the rope, and check if both handles come till the armpits. If it’s too long, adjust it from both ends. The place for skipping can be chosen depending upon your comfort zones like terrace, verandah, balconies, or your house garden. You can jump on a mat if you want to skip outdoors and indoors too to have a good grip. Hardwood floor is the best thing to jump on as it gives you an extra bounce effect.

There are two more important things to keep in mind while skipping. Firstly, your hand position, make sure your hands are positioned at the same distance away from the centerline of the body. In this, the movement of elbows and shoulders should be minimal, as the rotation should be generated through wrists. Secondly, maintenance of consistent bounding, your knees can be bend slightly so that your landing will be smooth and toes should be pointed down on every jump you take. Also, try to keep minimum space between yourself and the ground.

Lately, people have found many unique and different styles of skipping. But to start with, do learn basic jump and this you can practice without using rope as well.  You can start continuous jumps for 1 minute that too at a slow pace. You can do 5 to 10 rounds a day. Increase it gradually when you get comfortable. Once you are used to it in a week or so, try to do skipping at least for 20 minutes. Also, when you are confident enough, you can go to advance skipping jumps like an alternate footstep, cross-over, double under, side swing, and boxer steps.

Jumping rope is a mindful game. Coordination between your arms and legs is the most important task in this.

What are the precautions you must take while skipping?

Skipping: The easiest workout which you can do at home
  1. Try to wear shock-absorbing shoes or if doing barefoot, choose the floor space accordingly.
  2. Warm-up by doing light exercise and stretching for at least 10 minutes before starting the skipping sessions.
  3. It is very essential to take breaks in between for 30 sec to 1 minute and again start skipping.
  4. You must avoid doing skipping if you have high blood pressure,  recovering from serious accidents, heart problems, muscle bridges, back pain, and knee/bone injuries

Some of the most interesting facts about skipping!

  1. If you do skipping just for 1 minute, it will burn your 15 to 20 calories. This ultimately means that 15 minutes of skipping, you can burn 200-300 calories. So, it means in 1 hour you can almost burn more than 1000 calories per day.
  2. Are you bored with brisk walking? No worries! When you compare brisk walking, it burns 5 calories per minute, on the other hand skipping exercise helps you burn 3 to 4 times more calories than this.
  3. Interestingly, 10 minutes of skipping is equivalent to 30 minutes of jogging, 15 minutes of running and swimming for 12 minutes.

What are main advantages of skipping?

Skipping: The easiest workout which you can do at home
  1. An incredible way of doing weight loss. You might be feeling nostalgic about how it was a fun time to play with jumping rope in your childhood. But as you grow older, you realize the magical effects of it. Skipping is the most efficient way that can burn a lot of calories and shed excess fat if done regularly and help you stay fit just by exercising it at your home.
  2. It will boost your mental health by releasing endorphin hormone. This will absolutely show a positive effect on your mind by reducing stress, anxiety, and depression. It drastically improves blood circulation in the brain. You will feel relaxed, build more stamina, and able to focus more by lifting your mood.
  3. Your heart rate and blood pressure rate will improve with this easy exercise. It has the power to make you healthy in a short period by increasing the metabolism rate as well. Especially for children, it has been proved to reduce the risk of heart disease and gaining height.
  4. Skipping also reduces the risk of severe health conditions like cancer, type-2 diabetes, and obesity.
  5. The overall blood circulation, breathing, and lung capacity will be sought better by skipping. Your body will develop a habit to take maximum oxygen input and pump it in blood wisely.
  6. It is a full packed workout when done in advanced mode. As it plays a major role in toning up your lower and upper body. It will surely help you to build a lean muscular body.
  7. Also, it gives less pressure on your joints than running. If you are an athlete, you must adopt skipping as it will considerably improve your shoulder movements.
  8. Your bone density will get better but good care must be taken for the patients of weak bones and osteoporosis.

It might have crossed your mind by now that skipping is the prime alternative to traditional cardio. It neither requires any special equipment nor it has any rocket science, anyone out there can learn skipping and see it’s beautiful after effects. Staying healthy will make your life more cheerful.

Happy Skipping!

Instant Khaman Dhokla Recipe With Special Green Chutney | Easy, Soft, And Spongy

By
Riya
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0

Khaman or Dhokla is a soft, airy, and spongy popular Gujarati snack that you’ll love having. It is among those easily digestible, healthy, vegetarian Indian snacks made from chickpea flour (besan) or semolina (sooji). It is even a gluten-free, vegan snack. Everyone has their own way of making Dhokla from scratch. The traditional Dhokla recipe goes through a tedious, overnight fermentation process which makes the batter airy and light. Yet, this Dhokla recipe is so quick and super easy that you can make it at any time of the day without having a second thought. 

Khaman Dhokla


It’s a perfect tea-time snack served with some sweet and spicy chutneys. However, here I have given the recipe of the special Dhokla chutney that fits the best with this appetizing snack. This is my personal favorite tried recipe of instant Khaman Dhokla which never fails to give the best results each time (Recipe by Sanjyot Keer). Let’s quickly hop into the ingredients to make this mouth-watering, delicious chunk of distinct flavors.

Also read Ouick And Easy Chocolate Banana Cake In A Blender

Ingredients

For the Dhokla batter

  • Besan (chickpea flour)- 200 gm
  • Water- 300 ml
  • Salt as per taste
  • Citric acid- 1 Tsp
  • Powdered sugar- 2 Tbsp
  • Refined oil- 2 Tbsp
  • Grated ginger/Ginger paste- 2 Tsp
  • Baking soda- 1 Tsp

For the Tempting

Curry leaves
  • Refined oil- 1 Tsp
  • Mustard seeds- 1 Tsp
  • Curry leaves- 12-15 (in nos)
  • Slit Green chilies- 4-5
  • Chopped green chilies- 1 Tbsp/as per taste
  • Hing (asafoetida)- ¼ Tsp
  • Powdered sugar- 4 Tbsp
  • Water- ½-¾ cup
  • Salt as per taste

For garnishing

  • Chopped fresh coriander leaves- as required
  • Fresh grated or desiccated coconut

For Special Dhokla Chutney

Fresh Coriander leaves
  • Fresh roughly chopped coriander- ½ cup
  • Chopped mint (pudina) leaves- ¼ cup
  • Chopped green chilies- 2-3 Tsp
  • Ginger- 1 inch
  • Salt as per taste
  • Sugar- 1 Tbsp
  • Crumbled Khaman Dhokla- ½ cup
  • Lemon juice- 2 Tsp
  • Water as required

Also read Healthy Smoothie Recipes For Effective Weight Loss

Method

For making the Dhokla Batter

  • Firstly, take a mixing bowl. Add water, salt as per taste, sugar, citric acid, grated ginger, and oil. Take all the ingredients in the specified portions to get the best results. Mix all of them well with a wired-whisk. Keep it aside.

If you don’t manage to get citric acid, then you can replace it with 1 Tbsp of lemon juice. Although using citric acid will give you that super soft and spongy khaman Dhokla.

  • You can also add a pinch of yellow food color to the water mix for a nice warm yellow color, though it is absolutely optional. Do not use turmeric/haldi for coloring. As baking soda may react with it and give your Dhokla red spots which looks very awful. So, don’t do that.
  • Now, take another bowl and put a strainer over it. To it add the besan and sieve it. This step is important to get the fine chickpea flour for making the batter. So, don’t skip this.
  • Next, add the prepared water mix to the sieved besan in batches and keep on whisking it in between. Don’t pour the water mix at once as it will become difficult for you to whisk in the end. Also, adding in batches will make sure that no lumps are formed while mixing. You have to whisk it very well and make a smooth and silky batter.
  • Make sure the batter should not be too thick or too thin. It should be of medium running consistency. You need to whisk the batter in one direction only for at least 8-10 mins. This will make the batter airy which will result in a fluffy and airy khaman Dhokla. Now, cover and let the batter rest for at least 10-15 mins. Don’t skip this step.

Also read Yummy potato recipes to try out

Instructions for Oven

  • If you’re cooking it in an oven, take a microwave-safe dish (preferably 6-6.5 inches in diameter) and grease it with some oil. 
  • Next, add the baking soda to the batter and whisk with light hands in one direction only. Mix the batter until you notice that the batter becomes frothy and fluffy. This will take half or a minute. Do not over-whisk the batter. You can also use 1 sachet of unflavored Eno fruit salt in place of baking soda.
  • Now, you really need to be fast. Immediately transfer the batter to the greased dish. Put the dish into the oven in the micro mode for around 5-7 mins at 180℃. The timing may vary a bit depending on the amount of batter and the temperature settings. Though probably it takes exactly 5 minutes, you can also check after 5 mins.
  • As the process of cooking in the oven ends, check the dhokla whether it is ready or not. Just insert a toothpick at the center, if it comes clean that means your soft and super spongy khaman Dhokla is ready. 
  • Take out the dish from the oven, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it cool down a bit. 

Instructions for without-oven

No need to worry if you don’t have an oven to make Dhokla. Traditionally, a large steamer was used to make Dhoklas. The only difference between steaming and cooking in micro-oven is that in the oven it just takes 5 mins, whereas the steaming takes about 10-15 mins. Here are the instructions to make instant Dhokla without an oven.

  • Firstly, take a wide bottom vessel or a kadhai and add around some water to it. Next, place a steel ring or some kind of stand in the center. Now, cover the Kadhai or the vessel with a lid and bring the water to a boil.
  • You can use any kind of mold to steam your Dhokla batter. You can use a big plate or steel bowls or any big container’s lid. However, a round-shape aluminum cake tin is preferred that fits perfectly inside your Kadhai or vessel. You need to grease the tin thoroughly with some oil.
  • The rest steps remain the same as given in the recipe. After mixing soda along with the batter, transfer it immediately to the greased tin.
  • Place the tin carefully over the stand. Make sure that the boiling water is not in contact with the tin. Cover the lid and let the batter steam on high flame for about 15 mins.
  • After 15 mins, switch off the flame and insert a toothpick to check if it’s done or not. 
  • Take out the tin and let it cool for a bit by covering the top with a kitchen towel. This will prevent the top surface of the Dhokla from drying out.

Also read Apple Cider Vinegar | Proven Benefits, Dosage, Uses, And Probable Risks

For making the tempting

  • By the time your Khaman Dhokla is being cooled, you can prepare the tempting which will be poured all over it. The tempting will give the Dhokla a distinct flavor that makes it much moister and softer.
  • For tempting, take a tadka pan and place it over medium-high flame. Add oil, slit/chopped green chilies, hing, curry leaves, and saute it briefly for around 10-15 secs. Further add water, sugar, salt as per taste, give a good stir and bring it to a boil. Your sweet-spicy tempting is ready to be poured.
  • Carefully demould the dhokla from the dish and cut it into equal-sized squares. Next, immediately pour the prepared tempting all over the cut dhoklas. As the sponge is super airy and fluffy, you’ll notice that it will absorb the tempting as soon as it is poured. 
  • Allow the dhoklas to soak the tempting water within them by leaving it undisturbed for around 5-8 mins. 

Your hot, delicious, soft, and spongy Khaman Dhokla is ready to be served. Garnish it with some freshly chopped coriander leaves, and some grated coconut. Pair it with the specially made Dhokla chutney.

For making the Special Green Chutney

  • Take a grinding jar, add fresh coriander, fresh mint leaves, green chilies as required, sugar, salt as per taste, and grind it once for half a minute. Next, add the reserve crumbled Khaman Dhokla and a dash of water. Grind all of them until smooth.
  • A thick consistency chutney combines the best with Dhoklas, although you can adjust the consistency and add water accordingly.
  • Finally, add a dash of lemon to it for that twist of tanginess and grind it once more. Your special Green Dhokla Chutney is ready to be paired up. Serve it with the hot, spongy Dhoklas. Enjoy!

(You can even store the chutney in the fridge, it will remain fresh for up to 2 days)

Also read 5 Useful Strategies To Stop Overeating From The Very Next Meal

Khaman Dhokla Served with green chutney

Do try out this super easy and quick recipe of instant soft and spongy Khaman Dhokla with the special green Chutney that composes a perfect combo to hop onto. Follow all the steps and tips specified in the recipe properly. Place close attention to the proportions of the ingredients as quoted. Always use measuring spoons and cups for the best results. This is a perfect go-to snack that you can make any time and enjoy its sweet-spicy, delicious, and distinct Gujarati flavors.

All About Being Assertive!

By
Shrutika Thete
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0

Have you come across a situation where you are not able to tell another person what actually you want? If yes, you are being passive and rather you should be more assertive. It is not very easy to be assertive for everyone. Assertive is the act of being open to direct communication with the people about what your needs are but in a respectful way. You just have to speak for yourself before it’s too late. Here, you ought to be confident enough to say things. This situation can be faced by you in any path of life whether it is personal or professional. Also, if you be assertive, you make yourself more responsible for the things and people you have in your life.

Does being assertive and aggressive is the same?

Assertive

Sometimes, people often get confused between assertiveness and aggressiveness. But they both are opposite poles. Taking an example of a situation we face at home, your mom might say you that she is making pizza today but you already ate pizza the previous day and not wanting to have more. So, in this case, by being aggressive you might say your mom, “I am bored of pizza, I won’t eat that, I will eat whatever I want”. On the other hand, if you are being assertive, you can say that, “Mom, can we eat something else today as I have already eaten it the day before?”

There is a thin line between being aggressive vs being assertive. There is a sense of empathy in being assertive for being putting up your point before anyone. Whereas, you do things only for interest without even thinking about what effect it will have on others. You become kind of selfish or can be pushy about things. This is certainly not favorable as it results in unwanted circumstances.

Being assertive does not mean attacking or ignoring other’s feelings. It means you are willing to hold up for yourself without fairly attacking others!

How to become more assertive?

All About Being Assertive!

Simply Speak what’s on your mind but in a positive way

Firstly, identify the needs which you particularly want irrespective of the opinions of others. List out your priorities and understand yourself to the core. Secondly, after you identify these things in you, don’t just wait for someone else to find what you need. Take out the proper time to talk out with people and make them know what you exactly feel and what you exactly wish. It is important to note here that while you are doing this, you don’t put any accusations or make other people feel guilty.

Stay away from giving any unnecessary justifications

The things which you discuss should be pretty clear in your mind. This should result in a simple and direct conversation stating what you find to be true. Also, don’t try to give long explanations for what you want. As this can give the wrong impression of inconsistent nature to the people with whom you are conversing with.

Empower yourself to know where to start and where to stop.

When you are being assertive enough, you know your boundaries and limitations of the things very well. You will feel from your inner heart that which all things are important for you and till which limit you can bear the things. No one can just do whatever they want you to do, you have to go by your inner feeling and position your limits accordingly.

Start learning how to say NO from today itself.

Imagine you are working in the office and you got to leave in 5 minutes. But suddenly, your boss comes and says you to make a presentation that will at least take an hour. The need of the hour, in this case, is to say NO. But sometimes, you might fear due to consequences of it. Thereby, you might not have a habit of saying NO directly. In cases like these, you must understand that people take unsaid advantage of you. Instead, you should try to find a win-win solution and say NO when necessary.

You can’t force or control others

After telling your viewpoint, it does not mean that people will always think similar to you. You need to accept the fact that every human being is different. The perception and their upbringing differ a lot. Never make yourself accountable for how people will react to your assertiveness. If they get angry towards you, don’t just start fighting. You have to control behavior and stay calm as you know that it is your right to be assertive.

Express calmly without worrying

Make sure confidence flows through you while being assertive. Maybe you will get excited at times to share what you want, but that should not lead to aggression. Mark your body language and make eye contact with the person you are talking to. Remember that when you are calm and composite, another person will automatically absorb that feeling and may react considerably. While choosing few things, don’t overthink, and choose one which comes to your mind first.

Be open to hear criticisms and feedback

Many times it may happen like things do not turn according to your expectations. You should not just shout at them or find ways to ignore the situations. Rather you must find ways that will avoid sacrificing other’s needs. You should be open to both positive and negative feedback. You must find a way in between when you and the person whom you interact are on the opposite judgments.

Follow good assertive communication

You try to use “I” in your language instead of using “You”. For example, while cooking with your friend, you can say “I feel this can be done better if we add pepper to the mixture” rather than “You always don’t add pepper which makes the dish taste bland”. You can also use verbs like will instead of should, could; opt to instead of have to; and want instead of need.

What are the benefits of being assertive?

All About Being Assertive!

You will sense self-satisfaction, and be stress-free with your assertiveness nature. Most importantly, you will take your own decisions and stick to it firmly. You can express yourself freely by respecting another person’s thoughts. Although, it takes time to completely turn assertive from being passive or aggressive. But truly, if you get used to being assertive, you build a good relationship with others. It can be with your boss, life partner, relatives or friends. Being assertive is a weapon for your emotions. Ultimately, assertiveness revolves around our values, it tells that we live our lives not according to someone else’s but according to our values.

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