Dads' Chapatis, Vegan Korma, and Red Lentils with Curry Leaves

Freshly Baked Chapatis.
My dad is becoming quite the Indian Chef.
Chapati Recipe from  "The Indian Vegan Kitchen" by Madhu Gadia




We had kind of an "impromptu" family get together right after the Holidays.  I thought I was just going to see my 2 aunts (and folks), but their hubbies showed up too!  So great to see everyone.  Of course my father made an Indian Feast.  My 2 uncles aren't super crazy about Indian Food, but I think that the South Indian Lentils with Curry Leaves  passed the test.  One uncle wasn't crazy about cauliflower on it's own, but otherwise he might have even been okay with the Korma.  My mom loves Indian food, but I think she prefers the creamy dishes.  So I was happy that my dad made a Vegan Korma this time. Remember, if you use coconut milk, try to get a brand that does NOT use BPA's in the linings of their containers.   Any type of canned anything will most likely have BPA's.  Follow link to read about just a few companies and their status on BPA use.  It appears that Native Forest Brand may be safe, but I would always call first to confirm!  Changes in packaging can be made at any time.  Search Amazon.com for native forest coconut milk.  I know lots of people just shrug off BPA's but we tend to do that with everything until it is right up in our face about the dangers.  Canada has banned them.  I think I probably tax my endocrine system enough that it probably doesn't want anymore disruptions.  

Vegan Korma.  One of my mom's faves, but this time without the animal products.  He got the
recipe off of the internet and just "veganized" it.

Flattening the "bubbles" in the Chapati.

Dad, can you come cook for me??

South Indian Lentils with Curry Leaves
from Anupy Singla's "The Indian Slow Cooker" book.
Yes, they have been eating Indian for the last month also!

Love the black mustard seeds and the Curry Leaves creating texture.

Grapes, Apples, Walnuts, Spinach.

Can you believe it?  Dad made homemade bread also!

He is putting his Bosch to good use.  Although I
wish they would do more of the flax crackers and drop the
bread part.  

Why oh Why don't I eat gluten?
Freshly baked bread is the best!

Made with "Atta" flour.  Which can be bought very inexpensively at the
Indian Market (or online).

Vegan South Indian Lentils with Curry Leaves from "The Indian Slow Cooker"

Masoor Dal (Red Lentils)

South Indian Lentils with Curry Leaves from Anupy Singla's  "The Indian Slow Cooker"  book

Another AMAZING Vegan Slow Cooker dish from Anupy Singla's "The Indian Slow Cooker".  Red Lentils (also called Masoor Dal) are a cinch to find organic at your co-op or Whole Foods.  Of course you can buy them at the Indian/International stores also.  They are marked "Masoor Dal" there.  Bulk, Organic ones at Whole Foods will usually run around 2.00-2.50 a pound.

You can buy large bags at the Indian store for much less.

Tomatoes, Onions, Spices, and your choice of Peppers.
Of course I used Thai as apparently I have some issue with flaunting my "bravado".
SO EASY!  Just cut some tomatoes and grab your masala dabba.

Masoor Dal with tomatoes, onions, and spices in the slow cooker.
I halve the salt for all of the recipes.


Once again you put your Red Lentils (Masoor Dal) in your slow cooker (crock-pot) with the rest of the "Indian Staples" with the water.  Press a button.  Really, easier than trying not to melt the BPA plastics in your microwave from a TV dinner.  Have this style of food be your NEW TV dinner!  The Daily Show & Colbert pair well with this selection.

Black Mustard Seeds patiently waiting to be "popped".

Cumin Seeds.

Stirring the Cumin and Black Mustard Seeds.
I like using a cast iron pot for popping the seeds and toasting the spices.
The thick bottom helps prevent the spices from burning.

Curry Leaves with Onion.
Try any Indian Grocery for these.

The Curry leaves take the stage.

Sugar Free Coconut Milk to add in near end.

Parippu Curry.  The finished product which after one mouthful my husband told me
I could make that dish every single day.  Of course he has said that about several of the dishes so far!

Beautiful South Indian Lentils with Curry Leaves.
This is actually the dish my dad made!  It is the same recipe.
He is AWESOME in the kitchen.  Every man looks better in an apron.