Durga Puja, the most significant festival for Bangladesh's Hindu community, is a time of devotion, joy, and culinary indulgence. As families come together to honor Goddess Durga's victory, the kitchen becomes the heart of the celebration, filled with the aroma of festive dishes. This joyous occasion brings a rich variety of sweet and savory recipes, each representing the vibrant culture. From comforting vegetarian dishes to mouth-watering fish curries, every meal is a tribute to the festival’s spirit. Discover traditional Durga Puja recipes perfect for the Bangladeshi kitchen. Durga Puja Recipes to Try at Home . Khichuri (Rice and Lentils) Ingredients 1 cup moong dal, 1 cup basmati rice, 1 large potato, 1 large cauliflower, 4 tablespoons mustard oil, 1 bay leaf, 2 dried red chillies, 2 teaspoons cumin seeds, 1 large tomato, ½ cup green peas, 1 tablespoon ginger paste, 1 teaspoon turmeric, 1 teaspoon Kashmiri red chilli powder 1 teaspoon cumin powder, 8 cups water, 1 teaspoon garam masala, and ¼ cup ghee. Instructions First, heat the pot and add 1 tablespoon of ghee. Sauté the whole spices for 30 seconds, then add the powdered spices and sauté for another 30 seconds. Next, add the soaked, roasted dal and rice (without water) and sauté for 1-2 minutes.  Read more: How to Visit Dinajpur's Kantajew Temple Then, pour in water and green peas and stir. Cook on low-medium heat for 2 minutes, stirring every minute. Add cauliflower, potatoes, and ghee. Pour ½ cups of water, mix, and cover the pot.  Now, cook on low-medium heat for 10 minutes, stirring regularly. Once the khichuri is cooked, top with ghee, lightly mix and serve. Enjoy your delicious khichuri! Shorshe Ilish (Hilsa in Mustard) Ingredients 4 pieces hilsa steaks, 1 ½ tablespoons yellow mustard seeds, 1 tablespoon black mustard seeds, 1 ½ teaspoons turmeric powder, 1/2 cup mustard oil, 1/2 teaspoon nigella seeds, 4-5 green chillies, and, salt to taste.  Instructions First, marinate hilsa pieces with salt and 1 teaspoon turmeric. Soak mustard seeds in half a cup of water for 15 minutes, then grind them with green chillies, 1 tablespoon of mustard oil, and a little water into a smooth paste.  Now, heat 1 ½ tablespoons mustard oil in a pan, add green chillies and nigella seeds to splutter. Stir in the turmeric and mustard paste, cooking on medium heat. Add water for desired gravy consistency and bring to a boil. Add fish, and simmer for 3-4 minutes per side. Drizzle more mustard oil, add chillies, and boil. Serve Shorshe Ilish with steamed rice. Read more: Ancient Temples of Bangladesh: Remembering Their Past Glory Luchi (Deep-fried bread) Ingredients 2 cups all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon salt, ¾ cup warm water, and 1 tablespoon cooking oil.  Instructions First, mix all-purpose flour with salt and warm water to form a soft dough. Knead the dough thoroughly, then let it rest for 15 minutes. After resting, divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and shape them into small round balls.  Then, roll each ball out into flat discs. Heat oil until very hot, then deep fry each piece of dough for 25 to 35 seconds, until they puff up and turn golden. Once done, remove them from the oil and they are ready to enjoy!  Alur Dom (Potato Curry) Ingredients 600 grams small potatoes (boiled), 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder, 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder, ½ cup yoghurt, 1 teaspoon sugar, salt (to taste), ½ teaspoon garam masala, ½ teaspoon fenugreek leaves, 4-5 pieces green chillies, and 1/4 cup coriander leaves.  Read more: 5 Durga Puja Bhog Recipes to try this festive season For tomato paste: 5 pieces garlic cloves (halved), 1-inch ginger (sliced), 1/2 cup cherry tomato (halved), 1/2 cup onions (cubed), 2 pieces cloves, 1/4 cup cashew nut, 2 pieces green cardamom, 1 stick cinnamon, 5 pieces black peppercorns, 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds, 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder, and 1/2 teaspoon red chilli powder.  Instructions First, wash, peel, and boil the potatoes, then set them aside. Take a mixing bowl. Now toss the boiled potatoes with a pinch of red chilli powder, turmeric, and salt. Fry them in a pan for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Heat oil in another pan, add cumin seeds and roast for a minute.  Then add turmeric, red chilli, cumin, and coriander powder. Stir in tomato paste, and sauté for a few minutes, adding water if needed.  Take another bowl; mix yoghurt with sugar and add it to the gravy.  Read more: Top 15 Heritage Sites of Bangladesh Sauté until the oil rises. After that add the fried potatoes and 1 cup of water. Cook for 15 minutes on low-medium heat. Garnish with fenugreek leaves, green chillies, and coriander. Serve hot with luchi (deep-fried puffbread)!

Who does not crave chocolate from time to time? Whether for a quick bite or a luxurious dessert, chocolate hits the spot. Instead of buying pricey chocolates full of preservatives, why not whip up some at home?  Making chocolates is fun and cost-effective. Furthermore, homemade chocolate allows you to use the best ingredients and precise quantity, ensuring they are healthy for you and your family. Ready to dive into some tasty chocolate recipes? Let’s go! Delicious Chocolate Recipes to Try at Home Dark Chocolate  Ingredients 1/4 cup butter, 3 tablespoons powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons cocoa powder, 1 tablespoon milk powder, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla essence. Instructions First, add powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and milk powder into a sieve. Sift the mixture well into a bowl, discarding any remaining particles. Mix thoroughly and set aside. In a saucepan, boil water and place a dry bowl over it, ensuring the base does not touch the water. Then, add butter to the bowl and whisk until fully melted. Gradually add the sieved ingredients in two batches.  Read more: Aamshotto: 5 Mango Pulp Candy Recipes to Try at Home After the first addition, add the rest portion and whisk until it gets smooth and lump-free. Add vanilla essence and stir quickly. Next, turn off the heat and immediately pour the mixture into moulds. Tap the moulds to remove air bubbles, refrigerate for an hour, and gently remove the chocolates. Enjoy your homemade chocolates!   White Chocolate Ingredients 40 grams of cacao butter, 40 grams of milk powder, and 20 grams of white powdered sugar.  Instructions First, chop the cocoa butter into smaller pieces for faster, and even melting. Set up a double boiler by placing a heat-proof bowl over simmering water, ensuring the water does not touch the bowl’s bottom. Melt the cocoa butter over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to avoid scorching.  Once melted, stir in powdered sugar until dissolved, then add the milk powder and mix well. Transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor to make it smooth. Now pour the melted white chocolate into a baking pan and refrigerate or freeze until set.  Read more: 10 Tasty Bangladeshi Recipes with Flu-fighting Nutrients Store the chocolates in an airtight container in the freezer.  Milk Chocolate Ingredients 40 grams cocoa butter, 15 grams raw cacao powder, 2 tablespoons powdered sugar, 20 grams milk powder, and ⅛ teaspoons sea salt or less.  Instructions First, set up a double boiler by adding water to a saucepan and placing a heat-proof bowl on top, ensuring the bowl does not touch the water. Bring the water to a gentle simmer. Chop the cocoa butter into small, even pieces and melt it in the bowl. At this stage, stir frequently to avoid scorching.  Once melted, sift in cacao powder and milk powder, stirring to combine. Then, add powdered sweetener and mix until smooth. Remove from heat and cool slightly. Next, pour the mixture into a candy baking pan and place it in a deep fridge for around 20 minutes.  Read more: 10 Tasty Ilish Recipes for Bangladeshi Kitchen You can store the chocolates in an airtight container in the freezer.

Spices have shaped culinary traditions for centuries, adding depth and flavour to dishes worldwide. While some spices are common pantry staples, others are rare and highly prized, commanding astonishing prices. Let’s explore the ten most expensive spices in the world and discover what makes them so valuable. 10 Most Expensive Spices in the World Saffron Saffron, the most expensive spice in the world, is primarily grown in Iran, Spain, and India. This luxurious spice commands a price of around $1,000 per pound due to its labour-intensive harvesting process. It takes approximately 75,000 flowers to produce just one pound of saffron.  The spice's deep red threads turn a vibrant golden-yellow when cooked which imparts an intense, earthy flavour and a delicate floral aroma to dishes. Saffron is revered not only for its culinary uses in Persian rice, Spanish paella, and Indian rice dishes as well as sweets but also for its medicinal properties.  Fennel Pollen Fennel pollen, often referred to as the "spice of angels," is one of the most expensive spices, with a price tag of around $450 per pound. Originating from Italy and the United States, this golden-yellow spice is highly prized for its sweet, liquorice-like flavour with hints of citrus and a floral aroma.  Read more: 10 Most Expensive Salts in the World The meticulous process of collecting and drying the tiny pollen grains from fennel flowers contributes to its high cost. Although every part of the fennel plant is used in global cuisines, the pollen is especially valued for its ability to elevate dishes with just a tiny pinch, adding a complex and intense flavour to meats, vegetables, and desserts.  Vanilla Vanilla, one of the most sought-after spices, originates from regions like Madagascar, Mexico, and Tahiti, with a price of around $200 per pound. Derived from the seed pods of a tropical orchid, vanilla’s high cost is due to the intricate hand pollination process and the lengthy curing period, which can take several months.  The spice’s black pods and creamy white seeds are renowned for their sweet, rich flavour and unparalleled aroma. Vanilla from Madagascar, known as Bourbon vanilla, is especially prized for its creamy and intense flavour. This makes it a key ingredient in countless desserts and beverages worldwide.  Mahlab Mahlab, originating from the Middle East and Mediterranean regions, is a rare and fragrant spice made from the seeds of the St. Lucie cherry. Priced at around $69 per pound, its cost is driven by the intricate process of extracting, drying, and grinding the cherry pits into a fine powder.  Read more: These are the 10 Most Expensive Teas in the World Mahlab’s pale yellow hue and unique flavour profile—combining notes of almonds, cherries, and a hint of vanilla—make it a cherished ingredient in traditional Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines. Primarily used in baking, this spice adds a distinctive taste to breads, pastries, and cookies, infusing them with a sweet yet slightly bitter flavour.  Black Cumin Seeds Black cumin, native to North India, Iran, Morocco, and Egypt, is a prized spice known for its unique flavour and medicinal properties. Unlike regular brown cumin, black cumin (Bunium persicum) has a sweeter, citrusy flavour and is thinner and darker in appearance. Its cost of $39 per pound reflects its rarity and the distinct taste it imparts to dishes.  Widely used in Middle Eastern and South Asian cuisines, black cumin seeds are often toasted and added to breads, tagines, vegetables, and meat dishes. Beyond culinary use, these seeds are also valued for their medicinal benefits, including alleviating bronchitis, rheumatism, and asthma. 

With the rising cost of gas cylinders in Bangladesh, every bit of gas you save counts. Learning to save gas while cooking at home helps you save money and contributes to a more sustainable environment. Let’s explore effective tips to save cooking gas in rural and urban home kitchens. Ways to Save Gas While Cooking in Home Kitchens Cook with a Lid On Cooking with a lid on your pots and pans is a simple yet highly effective way to conserve gas. The lid traps heat inside the cookware, allowing food to cook more quickly and evenly. Without a lid, much of the heat escapes into the air, leading to longer cooking times and increased gas consumption.  By consistently covering your pots and pans, you can significantly reduce the amount of gas required for cooking. This small adjustment saves energy and speeds up meal preparation, making your kitchen more efficient. Read more: Fridge Smells Bad? Reasons and How to Get Rid of It Opt for Smaller Burners Choosing the right burner size for your cookware is crucial for efficient gas usage. When cooking with a small pot or pan, it is best to use a smaller burner. A large burner under a small pot wastes gas because the flame extends beyond the cookware, releasing heat into the air instead of focusing it on the pot.  Matching the burner size to the cookware ensures that all the heat is directed where it is needed which reduces cooking time and gas consumption. This simple habit can make a noticeable difference in your gas usage. Batch Cooking Batch cooking is a strategic way to save gas by preparing multiple meals at once. Instead of cooking individual meals throughout the week, you can cook larger quantities in one go, using the gas stove for a shorter overall time.  Read more: 10 Tasty Bangladeshi Recipes with Flu-fighting Nutrients Once cooked, these meals can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer and reheated later, which requires far less gas than cooking from scratch. This approach saves gas also time and effort during busy weekdays. By planning and preparing meals in batches, you can optimise gas usage and enjoy ready-to-eat meals. Soak Grains and Pulses Soaking grains, pulses, and beans before cooking is an excellent method to reduce cooking time and save gas. When these ingredients are soaked, they absorb water and soften, which significantly shortens the time needed to cook them.  For instance, soaked lentils can cook in a fraction of the time compared to unsoaked ones, meaning you will use much less gas. Additionally, soaking helps to break down complex carbohydrates, making the food easier to digest. Incorporating this simple step into your cooking routine can lead to both energy savings and improved meal quality. Read more: 10 Tasty Ilish Recipes for Bangladeshi Kitchen Use Flat-bottomed Cookware Flat-bottomed cookware is essential for efficient cooking and gas conservation. Pots and pans with a flat base make better contact with the stove, allowing for even heat distribution across the entire surface. This reduces cooking time and ensures that the heat is used effectively, rather than being wasted.  In contrast, warped or uneven cookware can result in uneven cooking and longer cooking times, leading to unnecessary gas consumption. Investing in good quality, flat-bottomed cookware can improve your kitchen’s efficiency, helping you save both time and gas while preparing meals. Keep Burners Clean Maintaining clean burners is key to ensuring your gas stove operates efficiently. Over time, food spills, grease, and debris can clog the burner openings, leading to uneven gas flow and a weaker flame. This inefficiency not only makes cooking slower but also increases gas consumption.  Read more: 10 Easy Snack Ideas to Stay Energized During Office Hours Regularly cleaning your burners helps maintain a steady, strong flame, which allows for faster and more efficient cooking. A well-maintained stove saves gas and extends the life of your appliance. This makes it a worthwhile habit to adopt for both energy savings and kitchen safety. Simmer, Don’t Boil Vigorously After bringing food to a boil, reducing the heat to a simmer can significantly cut down on gas usage. Many people mistakenly believe that boiling food vigorously cooks it faster, but in reality, it only wastes gas.  Simmering, which involves cooking at a lower, steady heat, is just as effective and far more efficient. Once your food reaches the boiling point, lowering the flame and allowing it to cook gently will ensure that you are not using more gas than necessary. This method saves energy and often results in better-tasting food. Read more: How to Safely Enjoy Street Food in Bangladesh Turn Off the Gas Early Turning off the gas a few minutes before your food is fully cooked is an effective way to conserve energy. The residual heat in the pot or pan continues to cook the food even after the gas is turned off, meaning you can save gas without compromising the quality of your meal.  This technique works particularly well for dishes like rice, pasta, and vegetables, which can finish cooking in the retained heat. By adopting this practice, you can gradually reduce your gas usage and make your cooking routine more efficient. Plan Your Meals Meal planning is an excellent strategy for optimising gas usage in the kitchen. By planning your meals, you can prepare dishes that require similar cooking times or temperatures, reducing the need to keep the stove on for extended periods.  Read more: Induction Cooker price in Bangladesh with Buying Tips For example, you might cook multiple items simultaneously or use the residual heat from one dish to start another. Additionally, planning helps you avoid last-minute cooking, which can lead to inefficient use of gas. A well-organised meal plan saves energy as well as makes your cooking process more streamlined and stress-free. Use the Right Size of Cookware Using cookware that matches the size of your burner is crucial for efficient gas consumption. A small pot on a large burner results in wasted gas, as the excess flame spills out around the pot instead of heating it directly.  Conversely, using a large pot on a small burner can lead to longer cooking times, as the heat is insufficient to cook the food efficiently. To maximise gas efficiency, always choose cookware that corresponds to the size of the burner. This simple adjustment ensures that the heat is focused where it is needed, reducing gas usage and cooking time. Read more: Deep Fryer price in Bangladesh with Buying Tips Gas Stove Maintenance Regular maintenance of your gas stove is essential for optimal performance and preventing gas leaks, which can be both wasteful and dangerous. Over time, burners can become clogged, and gas lines can develop leaks, leading to inefficient cooking and potential safety hazards.  By scheduling regular check-ups and cleaning for your stove, you ensure that it functions correctly and uses gas efficiently. This saves energy and extends the lifespan of your appliance. Proper maintenance is a small investment that pays off in reduced gas bills and a safer kitchen environment. Explore Alternatives: Pressure Cooker and Other Methods Exploring alternative cooking methods can further reduce your reliance on gas. Using a pressure cooker is one of the most efficient ways to save gas in the kitchen. Pressure cookers work by trapping steam inside, which increases the pressure and temperature, allowing food to cook faster. Whether you are preparing rice, lentils, or meat, a pressure cooker can cut cooking times by half or more. Moreover, pressure cooking retains more nutrients in the food, making it a healthier option. For frequent cooking, opting for a pressure cooker can lead to substantial gas savings. Read more: Microwave Oven price in Bangladesh with Buying Tips You can also use an induction cooker, electric stove, solar cooker, or microwave to complement your gas stove, especially on sunny days or when cooking smaller meals.  Using these electric cooking appliances, you can use much less gas compared to traditional cooking methods. While the initial investment might seem significant, the long-term savings on gas can make it worthwhile. Additionally, these alternatives often have faster cooking times and can be more energy-efficient for certain tasks. By diversifying your cooking methods, you can reduce your overall gas consumption, lower your utility bills, and contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle. Final Words Saving gas while cooking at home is not just about cutting costs but also about adopting smarter cooking practices that benefit your household and the environment. By implementing these simple tips, you can make your cooking process more efficient, reduce your gas consumption, and contribute to a greener world. Start making these changes today, and enjoy the benefits of more economical and eco-friendly cooking. Read more: Microwave Cooking: 7 Healthy Chicken Breast Recipes

During this inflation, homemade food saves money. Cooking pasta at home allows you to explore various flavours and create delicious dishes that suit your taste buds. Whether you prefer something rich and cheesy or spicy and tangy, pasta is a versatile dish that can be transformed into a wide range of mouthwatering recipes. Here are some delightful pasta recipes you can easily prepare in your home kitchen. 7 Mouthwatering Homemade Pasta Recipes for Bangladeshi Kitchens  Cheesy Pasta Ingredients 450 grams uncooked pasta, ¼ cup butter, ½ cup milk, ½ cup cubed Gouda cheese, ½ cup cubed sharp Cheddar cheese, ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, ¼ cup blue cheese dressing, 1 clove garlic (crushed), paprika to taste, salt and pepper to taste. Instructions First, boil a large pot of lightly salted water and cook the pasta for 8 to 10 minutes, until it reaches an al dente texture. Drain the pasta and place it back into the pot. Then, add the butter, garlic, Cheddar cheese, Gouda cheese, and Parmesan cheese in the same pot. Cook and stir over low heat. Do not use too much heat to prevent the cheese become stringy. Next, gradually stir in the blue cheese dressing and milk, continuing to cook until the pasta is evenly coated. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper. This recipe is ideal for those who love a comforting and cheesy meal. Read more: Delightful Recipes from Bangladeshi Kitchens to Savor on Rainy Days Spicy Chicken Pasta Ingredients 250 grams of uncooked pasta, 2 chicken breasts, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (to taste), salt and pepper to taste, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 cloves garlic minced, ½ cup chicken broth, 400 grams crushed tomatoes, ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (to taste), 1 pinch of sugar (optional, to taste), 2 cups fresh baby spinach, 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped), and freshly grated parmesan cheese (optional, for serving).

Monsoon in Bangladesh makes the nature greener, fruitful, and luscious. However, while commuting amid rains, many people suffer from cold and flu. To prevent such illnesses, it is essential to strengthen the immune system. Homemade delicious remedies, rich in natural ingredients, can be both comforting and effective in fighting off flu symptoms. Here are ten mouthwatering recipes, to keep your immunity strong and spirits high. 10 Homemade Savoury Flu-fighting Recipes for This Monsoon  Ginger-Lemon Honey Tea Ingredients 4 cups water, ¾ cup brown sugar, ¼ cup grated ginger root, 3 tea bags, 2 lemons (juiced), and 3 tablespoons honey. Instructions First, combine water, brown sugar, and grated ginger root in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Once it reaches a boil, lower the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 20 minutes.  Next, remove the saucepan from heat, add tea bags, and steep for 3 to 5 minutes, depending on your preferred strength. Discard the tea bags, then stir in lemon juice and honey. Finally, strain the mixture into a pitcher before serving. Read more: How to Safely Enjoy Street Food in Bangladesh Chicken Soup Ingredients 1–2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 large onion (diced), 1 cup celery (chopped), 2 tablespoons fresh ginger (chopped), 4–8 garlic cloves (roughly chopped), 700 grams chicken thighs or breasts (boneless, skinless), 4 cups chicken broth or stock, 2 cups water, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon white pepper, 2 bay leaves, lemon juice to taste, pinch chilli flakes, scallions, cilantro, and a drizzle of toasted sesame oil (optional, tasty) Instructions First, heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, celery, garlic, and ginger, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until fragrant. Lower the heat to medium-low and continue sautéing until golden, about 3-4 more minutes.  Next, add chicken stock, water, salt, white pepper, bay leaves, and skinless chicken, bringing the mixture to a boil. Cover and simmer gently for 20 minutes, adjusting cooking time for different cuts of chicken. Test for doneness by pulling the meat apart with two forks; it should be tender and opaque.  Then, shred the chicken, return it to the pot, and simmer for 5 more minutes. Adjust the broth with lemon juice and salt, and serve over rice or noodles, garnished with scallions, cilantro, and chilli flakes.  Read more: Fridge Smells Bad? Reasons and How to Get Rid of It Turmeric and Ginger Latte Ingredients 1 cup non-dairy milk, 1 teaspoon organic ground turmeric powder, ½ -1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger, 1 teaspoon honey, and freshly ground pepper to taste. Instructions First, heat the milk in a pot, stirring until it comes to a boil. Add all the ingredients, then reduce the heat to a simmer for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. Now, strain the mixture through a small sieve and pour it into a mug. Serve warm and enjoy this golden beverage! Vegetable Khichuri Ingredients Rice: 2 cups pulao rice, 1 cup masoor dal, 2 teaspoons ginger paste, ½ teaspoon garlic paste, ½ teaspoon ground turmeric, 1 teaspoon whole cumin, 2 bay leaves, ½ cup chopped onion, 4 to 5 green chillies, 1½ teaspoon salt, ¼ cup oil, and 2 tablespoons ghee. Vegetable: 1 cup cauliflower pieces, 1 cup potato pieces, ½ cup beans, ½ cup sliced carrots, and ½ cup sweet peas.  Read more: Urban Agriculture: Top 10 Monsoon Vegetables to Grow in Bangladesh Instructions First, begin by mixing all the vegetables, except the sweet peas, with a dash of salt and lightly frying them in about 2 tablespoons of oil. Set aside. Rinse the rice and dal together, then drain the water.  Next, combine them with ginger, garlic, turmeric, bay leaves, and 5 to 6 cups of warm water with salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Once the mixture begins to boil, add the fried vegetables, sweet peas, and green chilli. Cover and reduce the heat to low.  Then, after 3 to 4 minutes, stir again and keep covered. Once the water has evaporated, set the pot aside over very low heat. In a separate pan, heat oil and brown the onions and cumin. Mix them into the rice gently, cover, and turn off the heat after a couple of minutes. Finally, stir in the ghee before serving hot. This wholesome, easy-to-digest meal is perfect during sickness.  Read more: Delightful Recipes from Bangladeshi Kitchens to Savor on Rainy Days Beef and Veggie Stir-Fry Ingredients 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, 450 grams beef (cut into 2-inch strips), 1 ½ cups fresh broccoli florets, 1 red bell pepper (cut into matchsticks), 2 carrots (thinly sliced), 1 green onion (chopped), 1 teaspoon minced garlic, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, and 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (toasted). Instructions First, gather all the ingredients. Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat, and cook the beef until browned, about 3 to 4 minutes. Push the beef to one side of the pan, then add broccoli, bell pepper, carrots, green onion, and garlic to the centre.  Now, cook and stir the vegetables for 2 minutes. Combine the beef with the vegetables and season with soy sauce and sesame seeds. Continue cooking and stirring until the vegetables are tender, about 2 more minutes. Serve hot and enjoy! Read more: Summer Drinks: Refreshing Homemade Sherbets to Beat the Heat

Aamshotto, or mango pulp candy, is a delightful treat that captures the exclusive taste of ripe, juicy mangoes. This chewy and tangy confection is a perfect blend of sweet and tart flavours, making it a favourite among mango lovers. Homemade mango pulp candy satisfies your sweet tooth and offers a healthy snack option. Nutrients and Health Benefits of Mango Mangoes are rich in vitamins A, C, and E, which boost immunity, improve vision, and promote healthy skin. They are rich in dietary fibre, which helps with digestion and prevents constipation. The antioxidants in mangoes help combat free radicals, reducing the risk of chronic diseases.  Additionally, mangoes provide essential minerals like potassium, supporting heart health and maintaining healthy blood pressure levels. Including mangoes in your diet offers a delicious way to enhance health and well-being. Read more: 6 Tasty Dragon Fruit Recipes to Try at Home Mouthwatering Aamshotto Recipes for Home Kitchens . Mango Pulp Candy from Ripe Mangos (Misti Aamshotto) Ingredients 3 cups mango puree, and 1 cup sugar. Instructions To make aamshotto, cook the mango puree in a pan for about 5 minutes. Once the puree is heated, add sugar and continue to cook until the mixture thickens. Prepare a tray by greasing it, then pour the thickened mango puree onto the tray.  Read more: Miyazaki: Why are the world's costliest mangoes considerably cheap in Bangladesh? Now, allow it to dry in the sun for two days or, if you prefer, dry it under a fan for three to four days. Once fully dried, unmold the mango papad and cut it into pieces. Serve and enjoy your homemade mango pulp candy.

Hilsa, or Ilish, is a beloved delicacy in Bangladesh. It is renowned for its unique flavour and tender texture. Its rich taste and aroma make it an exclusive choice for traditional Bangladeshi dishes, cherished by food lovers nationwide. Let’s delve into different and exclusive Ilish recipes to savour.  Nutrients and Health Benefits of Hilsa Fish Ilish is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which promote heart health and reduce inflammation. It provides high-quality protein essential for muscle repair and growth. The fish is a good source of vitamins B12 and D, supporting brain function and bone health. Additionally, Ilish contains selenium, which boosts the immune system, and essential fatty acids that maintain healthy skin. Consuming Ilish can contribute to well-being and a balanced diet.  Read more: Healthy Alternatives to Cakes and Cookies: 7 Delicious and Nutritious Swaps 10 Mouthwatering Ilish Recipes to Try at Home Ilish Paturi Ingredients 4 pieces Ilish fish (3-cm-thick pieces), 40 grams mustard seeds (soaked 2 hours), 8 pieces green chillies, 40 grams grated coconut, 50 grams yoghurt (beaten), 24 grams salt, 2 g sugar, 2 g turmeric powder,  and 20 g mustard oil.

Have you ever had a bite of something that instantly transports you back to a fond memory? For many, that’s Cinnabon. Known for its irresistible sweetness, Cinnabon has now brought its signature flavors to Bangladesh, delighting all with a sweet tooth. Having first experienced Cinnabon’s delectable treats abroad, I couldn’t resist the urge to try them here in Dhaka. To my delight, the taste was just as I remembered – a perfect blend of indulgence and comfort. Despite some saying it’s too sweet, I found Cinnabon’s classic cinnamon rolls to be exactly what my taste buds craved. The soft, doughy texture with layers of cinnamon and icing was a nostalgic treat. 10 Easy Snack Ideas to Stay Energized During Office Hours “It’s like a warm hug on a plate,” I thought, especially when paired with a cup of their rich, flavorful coffee. But Cinnabon isn’t just about their legendary cinnamon rolls. They offer a range of Chillattas, refreshing drinks that come in flavors like Mochalatta, Strawberry Chillatta, and Mango Chillatta. On a hot day, the Mochalatta, with its blend of coffee and chocolate, was my go-to choice, perfectly complementing the sweetness of their rolls. Walking into Cinnabon in Dhaka felt like revisiting a beloved spot from my travels. The aroma of freshly baked goods, the friendly service, and the joy of treating yourself – it’s all here. Whether you’re a first-timer or someone who, like me, has savored Cinnabon in different corners of the world, each visit is a delightful reminder of why some flavors never fade. If you haven’t experienced the magic of Cinnabon in Bangladesh yet, I highly recommend you do. Indulge in a cinnamon roll or sip on a Chillatta – you might just find yourself pleasantly surprised, just like I was. How to Safely Enjoy Street Food in Bangladesh Cinnabon, the ultimate destination for gooey, indulgent treats, made its grand debut in Bangladesh on April 17, marking a milestone after wowing customers in over 50 countries worldwide. The opening event was graced by US Ambassador to Bangladesh Peter Haas and renowned actor Mumtaheena Chowdhury Toya. Since 1985, Cinnabon has been delighting taste buds around the world with its fresh cinnamon rolls and irresistible baked goods. Now, Bangladeshis can join the global community of Cinnabon lovers and enjoy a taste of this sweet nostalgia right at home.

During busy office hours, a healthy snack can pacify those inevitable hunger pangs between meals. Finding nutritious, dry, and easy-to-store snacks keeps office employees energized and focused. Here are ten simple and healthy snack ideas that can be easily incorporated into a busy workday. 10 Healthy Office Snack Ideas to Keep You Productive Almonds: The Powerhouse Nut Almonds are a perfect snack for busy employees during office hours. They offer numerous health benefits and are packed with healthy fats, fiber, protein, magnesium, and vitamin E. Almonds help lower cholesterol levels, reduce hunger, and manage weight. Their high protein content supports muscle repair, while magnesium boosts energy levels and promotes relaxation. The antioxidants in almonds also protect against oxidative stress, making them a nutritious and convenient option to keep you energized and focused throughout the workday. Read more: Health Benefits of Different Types of Nuts Cashews: Nutritious and Convenient Cashews are a convenient and nutritious snack for everyone. Rich in healthy fats, protein, magnesium, and vitamins, cashews support heart health, boost energy, and improve bone strength. Their high magnesium content helps reduce fatigue and muscle cramps, while the protein aids in muscle repair and keeps you feeling full longer. Cashews also contain antioxidants that protect against cellular damage and promote overall well-being. Easy to keep and enjoy, cashews are a perfect mid-morning snack during office hours. Walnuts: Brain-Boosting Goodness Walnuts are an excellent snack choice for busy employees needing a nutritious boost. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamin E, walnuts support brain health, reduce inflammation, and improve heart health. Their high fiber content aids digestion and keeps you feeling full longer, while the protein provides sustained energy throughout the day. Walnuts also contain essential minerals like magnesium and phosphorus, which help maintain bone health and muscle function. All these benefits make walnuts a convenient and healthy snack option for staying focused at the office. Read more: Top 10 Healthy Seeds to Eat Roasted Pumpkin Seeds: Crunchy and Nutritious Roasted pumpkin seeds are a nutritious and convenient snack for busy employees. They are packed with antioxidants, magnesium, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids, offering numerous health benefits. These seeds support heart health, regulate blood sugar levels, and boost the immune system. Their magnesium content aids muscle function and relaxation, while zinc enhances cognitive performance and immunity. Roasted pumpkin seeds also provide a satisfying crunch and are easy to store, making them an ideal mid-morning snack. Dried Mangoes: Sweet and Healthy Dried mangoes are a tasty and nutritious snack during office hours. Rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, dried mangoes support eye health, boost the immune system, and improve skin health. The natural sugars in dried mangoes provide a quick energy boost, while the fiber aids digestion and keeps you feeling full longer. Additionally, the antioxidants help protect cells from damage. Easy to store and carry, dried mangoes are a convenient and healthy option to keep you energized. Read more: How to Make Baklava at Home: Versatile Recipes from Different Cultures