United News of Bangladesh

As the winter approaches, the air carries the scent of festivity. A unique culinary tradition, the art of making winter pitha, comes alive during the cold months in both urban and rural households of Bangladesh. These delectable rice cakes are known for their sweet and savoury flavours. Pitha is an integral part of Bengali culture. Let's explore five delectable savoury winter pitha recipes that will warm your heart and tastebuds. 5 Delicious Savoury Winter Pitha Recipes to Try in Bangladeshi Kitchens Chitoi Pitha Ingredients 1 cup rice flour, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 2 cup warm water, and 2 teaspoon green chilli. Read more: Healthy Alternatives to Cakes and Cookies: 7 Delicious and Nutritious Swaps Instructions First, take rice flour, a pinch of salt, finely chopped green chilli, and warm water, creating a smooth batter. Let it rest for 15-30 minutes.  Then, heat a non-stick pan, lightly grease it with oil, and spread the batter around. Cover with a lid, allowing it to steam and cook until soft. Remove with a spatula, place on a plate, and serve with different vortas like mustard, coriander, and dried chilli.  Spicy Chitoi pitha also tastes wonderful with different curries like vegetable curry, beef curry, mutton curry, chicken curry etc.  Read more: 10 Best Teas for Weight Loss

Sushi, a delicacy originating and evolving in Japan, stems from the Japanese words "su" (vinegar) and "shi" (rice). This illustrates its fundamental ingredients. This delightful rice preparation not only stood the test of time but has also transcended borders. It is now gracing the tables in Bangladeshi kitchens and households with its diverse and tantalising flavours. Let’s take a look at some mouthwatering homemade sushi recipes for local food connoisseurs. 5 Delicious Sushi Recipes to Try in Bangladeshi Kitchens Maki Sushi with Baked Fish Ingredients 50 grams sushi-grade salmon, 1 avocado, 1 nori seaweed, 170 grams cooked sushi rice, 1 teaspoon wasabi, soy sauce (to taste), 170 grams ready-to-cook skinless mackerel, salt, rice flour, sesame oil (for frying), 2 lettuce,  chilli sauce, sesame seeds (for garnish). Read more: 10 Delicious Quinoa Recipes for Weight Loss Instructions First, halve the avocado, remove the pit, and cut it into 1/4-inch strips. The same process needs to be followed for the salmon. Then, place the nori sheet on a work surface, preferably a plastic-wrapped sushi bamboo mat for the sushi. Spread sushi rice evenly on the nori, leaving a 1/4-inch edge at the top. Add a strip of wasabi down the centre of the rice. Place avocado and salmon strips on top. Sprinkle the exposed nori with water, roll from the bottom, seal gently, and cut the roll into 12 pieces. To prepare the mackerel, rinse and pat it dry, cut it into 12 pieces, and lightly salt. Coat in rice flour and fry in hot sesame oil until golden. Top the salmon roll with lettuce and mackerel, and serve with sesame seeds and your choice of soy sauce or chilli sauce for dipping. Read more: Delicious Oatmeal Recipes for Weight Loss

Weight loss is a journey that often requires a balance between nutritious meals and regular exercise. If you are looking for a healthy and tasty food to shed extra pounds, try quinoa. It offers a blend of protein, fibre, and essential nutrients. Quinoa, originating from South America, has gained immense popularity due to its health benefits and versatility in the kitchen. Key Health Benefits of Quinoa Quinoa is a superfood. It offers a range of benefits that make it a desirable addition to any diet. Here are some of its key advantages: - High in protein, aiding in muscle development and repair- Rich in fibre, promoting a feeling of fullness and aiding in digestion- Low glycemic index, making it suitable for diabetics- Packed with essential vitamins and minerals like iron, magnesium, and B vitamins. This nutritous grain can be a game-changer in losing weight in a healthy way.  Read more: 7 Healthy, Delicious Egg Recipes for Breakfast 10 Tasty Quinoa Recipes for Losing Weight Quinoa Bowls Ingredients  1/2 cup quinoa (rinsed), 1/8 teaspoon salt, 2 tablespoons honey, 1/2 cup almond milk, 1/2 cup fruit (like blueberries), 1/4 cup walnuts (coarsely chopped), and 1 banana (sliced). Instructions First, add quinoa and water to a saucepan. Sprinkle some salt and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes, covered. Once most of the water is absorbed, fluff it up with a fork.  Then, add milk and honey and give it a good stir. Divide the delicious mixture into two bowls. Finish off by garnishing with almond milk, fruits, banana slices, and nuts. Time to savour! Read more: Top Traditional Bangladeshi Foods You Must Try Quinoa with Vegetables Ingredients  125 grams white quinoa, 1/2 medium zucchini (diced), 1/2 green bell pepper (diced), 1/2 green and yellow chilli (chopped), 2 apricots (optional, diced), 250 ml vegetable stock, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 spring onion stalk, 100 grams rajma (shelled), 2 garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon olive oil, a few sage leaves, and a few rosemary leaves.

Guinness World Records declared on Monday that Pepper X has won the title of world's “hottest chilli pepper”.According to testing conducted by Winthrop University in South Carolina, this new pepper averages 2.69 million Scoville Heat Units (SHU), surpassing the previous record-holder, Carolina Reaper, which averages 1.64 million SHU, according to Guinness World Records, reports CNN. Also read: Dhaka Clean-up Campaign hits Guinness World RecordAmerican scientist Wilbur Scoville created the SHU scale to gauge the spiciness of chilli peppers in 1912, it said.According to Guinness, the typical jalapeno pepper has a SHU rating between 3,000 and 8,000. Also read: 64- year-old FF sets Guinness World Record swimming 186 kmsEd Currie, the owner of the Puckerbutt Pepper Company in South Carolina, cultivates Pepper X. The Carolina Reaper, which broke the record in 2013, was also a creation of his, the report said.“Ed cultivated Pepper X on his farm for over 10 years, cross-breeding it with some of his hottest peppers to increase its capsaicin content,” Guinness said on its website. Also read: Thakurgaon youth jumps rope to enter Guinness BookCurrie unveiled Pepper X to the public for the first time on an episode of the popular YouTube series, “Hot Ones.”There is currently no information on how a pepper that has 1 million more Scoville units than the Reaper will be characterised.

Though Oatmeal is a breakfast staple often associated with simplicity and routine, it does not have to be bland and uninspiring. Are you finding the taste of regular oatmeal a bit mundane? Wondering how you can make it more palatable and enticing?  Fear not! There are countless ways to jazz up your oatmeal and turn it into a delicious and nutritious breakfast that can make your weight loss journey more enjoyable. Benefits of Oatmeal Oatmeal is a whole-grain cereal food packed with nutrients. It has many health benefits, including: - High in fibre aids in digestion promotes a feeling of fullness and helps to lose weight.- Lowers cholesterol levels and contributes to a healthy heart.- Regulates blood sugar levels, especially beneficial for diabetics.- Packed with essential vitamins and minerals.- Aids in weight management and promotes a healthier lifestyle. Read more: 10 Best Teas for Weight Loss 10 Best Oatmeal Recipes for Losing Weight  Oat Milk Ingredients ½ cup whole rolled oats, 3 cups water, 2 teaspoons honey, ½ teaspoon vanilla extract, and ⅛ teaspoon sea salt. Instructions First, in a blender, mix oats, water, maple syrup, vanilla, and salt for 30 seconds. Then, strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a large bowl for a smoother texture. You may add honey for sweetening and enjoy it instantly. Or you can drink it after being chilled.  Read more: How to Lose Weight without a Strict Diet or Heavy Exercise Oatmeal Bowl Ingredients 5 tablespoons rolled oats, ⅓ - ½ cup hot water, 2 tablespoons walnuts (chopped), 1 cup blueberries, and 2 tablespoons honey.

Dining out is a delightful experience. It is an opportunity to relish culinary experiences beyond the daily routine. Buffet dining amplifies this joy. It offers an array of dishes and flavours in one setting. This article offers tips to make the most of your money at a buffet. 15 Buffet Hacks to Maximise Your Dining Experience Find Best Buffet Deals When it comes to making the most of buffet dining, finding the best deals can significantly enhance the experience. Try to look for promotions, special offers, or loyalty programs offered by buffet restaurants. By capitalising on these opportunities, one can enjoy a lavish buffet experience without breaking the bank. You may save while savouring a variety of delightful dishes. Lunch Buffets: A Better Choice Choosing to have a buffet meal during lunchtime can be a strategic decision. Lunch buffets often come at a lower price compared to dinner buffets while offering a similar array of dishes. Opting for a midday buffet saves you money and allows you to enjoy a wide selection of delectable options in a less crowded and more relaxed setting. Read more: Top 10 Buffet Restaurants in Dhaka City Pre-Buffet Breakfast Strategy Before heading to a buffet, one should have a light breakfast. Starting the day with a small, healthy meal can help manage appetite and food choices later at the buffet. A light breakfast ensures that individuals do not arrive at the buffet overly hungry. It enables one to make more mindful selections and enhances the overall dining experience. Dress Smart  Choosing the right attire for a buffet can impact the dining experience. It is better to opt for loose and comfortable clothing that allows room for a satisfying meal. Try to avoid tight-fitting outfits that might make you feel uncomfortable after indulging. This way one focuses entirely on the delightful dishes presented before them. Pre-Meal Hydration Strategy Before delving into a buffet, it is necessary to make sure to stay hydrated. Drinking water or other hydrating beverages before a meal kick-starts digestion. It ensures a smoother culinary journey. Adequate fluids prepare the stomach for the delightful buffet. This simple strategy allows food lovers to fully appreciate the buffet while keeping the tummy comfortable. Read more: Top 10 Dhaka Restaurants with Outdoor Seating

In these busy times, when convenience often trumps nutrition, finding appealing ways to introduce healthy vegetables to kids can be a challenge. However, nutritious winter vegetables like cauliflower can also be offered to the young members of your family though healthy and appetizing recipes. We have gathered 7 delightful cauliflower recipes that can pique your child’s curiosity.  Health Benefits of Cauliflower Cauliflower, also known as Romanesco cauliflower, with its striking fractal patterns, is not only visually intriguing but also nutritionally dense. The vegetable provides vital nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin K, fiber, and folate.  Cauliflower strengthens a strong immune system and promotes digestion. It has anti-inflammatory properties. Consumption of this winter vegetable also helps to lose weight in a healthy way. Adding to this, cauliflower helps the human body to fight aging in a natural way.  Read more: Healthy Alternatives to Cakes and Cookies: 7 Delicious and Nutritious Swaps 7 Delicious Cauliflower Recipes for Children Cauliflower Fritters Ingredients 350 grams cauliflower (chopped into small florets), ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon pepper, zest of 1 lemon, small bunch fresh parsley (chopped), small bunch green onions (chopped), ½ cup plain (all-purpose) flour, 1 clove garlic (minced), ½ cup grated parmesan cheese, 1 medium egg, and 3 tablespoon olive oil. Instructions First, boil the cauliflower florets for precisely 6 minutes. After draining, transfer the cauliflower to a bowl and lightly crush them. Ensure it resembles small gravel-sized lumps. Add in salt, pepper, lemon zest, parsley, green onions, flour, garlic, parmesan, and egg. Using a spoon, thoroughly mix the ingredients.  Proceed to make 8-10 balls from the mixture and flatten them before placing it on a plate. Repeat this process until all the mixture is utilized. Then, in a large frying pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Fry the cauliflower fritters for 3-4 minutes on each side until a desirable brownness is achieved. Finally, arrange the fritters on a plate and serve them. Read more: 10 Best Teas for Weight Loss Cauliflower Cheese Egg Muffins Ingredients  350 g cauliflower florets, 5 eggs, 1 cup grated cheddar cheese, 1 teaspoon onion powder, salt and pepper, and optional baby spinach leaves. Instructions First, blitz the cauliflower until it is like fine couscous-like grains. In a bowl, whisk the eggs thoroughly. Then, add the cheese and the prepared cauliflower. Season with salt and pepper as needed. At this stage, grease the muffin cups and carefully fill them with the egg mixture. You may decorate your muffins with spinach leaves. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the muffins for 15-20 minutes, or until they become firm and springy to the touch. Once they are done, allow the muffins to cool in the tray for about 5 minutes before serving. Read more: 5 Easy Fruit Bread Recipes Cauliflower Fried Rice Ingredients  2 ½ cups chopped cauliflower in a food processor, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 small onion chopped, 1 cup peas and carrots (thawed), 2-3 tablespoons soy sauce (to taste), 2 eggs lightly beaten, and 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional). Instructions First, rinse and chop the cauliflower into florets. In a food processor pulse the cauliflower until it is finely minced like rice in texture. Next, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Then add onion, peas, and carrots, sautéing them until they are tender. Now pour the beaten eggs on one side and scramble the eggs.  Ensure they are cooked before mixing them with the vegetable blend. Then incorporate the cauliflower into the mixture, and pour soy sauce over it. Stir and fry the rice and vegetable concoction until it is heated through, and the cauliflower attains the desired tenderness. For extra flavor, you can add green onions. Read more: 7 Comforting Soups for Upset Stomach

Cakes and cookies or biscuits, with their delightful flavors and textures, have carved a special place in the ever-evolving culinary culture. Their universal appeal transcends borders, making them beloved indulgences across the globe. However, beneath their sweet charm lie potential health concerns. This article explores the health risks of Cakes and biscuits, offering seven nutritious alternatives to satisfy your cravings.  Health Risks of Cakes and Cookies Cakes and biscuits, though tempting, come with a set of health risks that should not be overlooked. Here are the key concerns: High Sugar and Refined Flour Content Cakes and cookies usually contain sugar and refined flour, causing rapid spikes in blood sugar levels. Consistent high sugar consumption can lead to insulin resistance, paving the way for diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, and heart disease. Read more: Natural Sweeteners: 7 Healthy Alternatives of Refined Sugar Saturated Fats and Cholesterol Levels These baked foods often contain solid and highly saturated fats like butter and palm oil, which can increase low-density cholesterol levels. Margarine or butter used in cakes can contribute to raised cholesterol levels in the blood. Dental Issues The sugary and starchy nature of cakes and cookies can contribute to cavities and dental problems over time. Weight Gain Cakes are rich in carbohydrates and fats, making them calorie-dense and conducive to weight gain. Read more: 10 Best Teas for Weight Loss Blood Glucose Spikes Sugar is one of the most common ingredients used in baking cakes. The sugar in cakes can lead to higher blood glucose levels, increasing the risk of developing diabetes over time.

In today's fast-paced world, the struggle with obesity is a prevalent concern. Obesity leads to various health complications. From heart diseases to diabetes, the implications of carrying excess weight are far-reaching. However, the solution might be as simple as a comforting cup of tea. Several teas have been recognized for their potential to aid in weight loss. Let's explore the 10 best teas that promote weight loss. 10 Popular Teas to Shed Extra Pounds Green Tea  Green tea, a popular beverage, is made from the leaves of tea plants. It is scientifically known as Camellia sinensis. In Bangladesh, it's referred to as "Shobuj Cha." Renowned for its richness in antioxidants, particularly catechins, green tea offers numerous health benefits.  Consuming around  2 to 3 cups daily can provide a boost to metabolism and aid in the oxidation of fats. However, excessive consumption can cause hepatotoxicity.  Read more: Top 10 Kidney Cleansing Teas with Recipes Usually, green tea is brewed using 1 teaspoon of tea leaves with 150ml boiled water. The tea leaves need to be soaked at 61 °C to 87 °C temperature for 30 seconds to 3 minutes depending on light or strong tea you prefer.    Oolong Tea Oolong tea, is a semi-oxidized traditional Chinese tea strikes a balance between green and black teas. It is derived from Camellia sinensis plants. In Bangladesh, it goes by "Ulong Cha."  Oolong tea offers a unique flavor profile. It is packed with polyphenols, theanine, and vitamins. Consuming 4 cups daily is safe for most people according to WebMD. However, excessive intake could lead to caffeine sensitivity like mild to serious headaches and irregular heartbeat.  Read more: Health benefits of floral teas: 10 blends you can try Oolong tea supports digestion, enhances energy expenditure, and can aid in weight management. To prepare, first, boil the water over 80-90°C. Then steep the leaves for 1-5 minutes. Now the Oolong tea is ready to enjoy. Black Tea Black tea is sourced from the Camellia sinensis plant, the same as green tea. In Bangladesh this tea is referred to as "Rong Cha" or "Lal Cha." Loaded with theaflavins, thearubigins, and vitamins, black tea offers robust flavor and health benefits.  Four cups of black tea daily is normally moderate for most people. But be cautious due to its high caffeine content. It supports metabolism, aids weight management, and provides a caffeine boost.  Read more: These are the 10 Most Expensive Teas in the World To make black tea, first 100ml of water at 100°C. Then soak 1 teaspoon of tea in the water for about 6 minutes. You may enjoy it with sugar, milk, or lemon. But for weight loss, unsweetened black tea without sugar is recommended. White Tea White tea is also obtained from the tea plant or Camellia sinensis plant. This tea is normally called white tea while in Bangladesh it’s known as Recognized as White Tea, it's known as "Shada Cha." White tea offers a delicate flavor and health benefits. This tea is abundant in catechins, flavonoids, and antioxidants. You can consume 2-4 cups daily to be safe. Overconsumption of white tea can lead to insomnia, dizziness, and gastrointestinal discomfort.  Read more: 10 Healthy Bedtime Teas for Better Sleep, Relaxation White tea supports fat breakdown, offers antioxidants, and enhances overall well-being. For a nice cup of white tea first boil 1 cup water. Then pour it into a cup and add a tea bag into the water. Finally steep for 2-3 minutes for the perfect taste.  Rooibos Tea Rooibos tea is derived from the leaves of the rooibos plant, native to South Africa. The plant is called red bush and carries the scientific name Aspalathus linearis.  Rooibos tea is packed with nutrients like aspalathin and nothofagin. This caffeine-free herbal tea offers a unique taste and health benefits. Experts suggest drinking 6 cups daily. A large intake of rooibos tea can cause an increase in liver enzymes which can potentially indicate liver problems.  Read more: Masala Tea Health Benefits: How Can It Improve Your Immunity To prepare rooibos tea first you need to boil 1 cup water over 100 °C. After medium boiling add 1 teaspoon of tea leaves. Then brew for 5-6 minutes and your tea is ready to savor.  

Bread has held a cherished place in human diets for centuries. Among the diverse range of bread options, fruit bread stands out with its sweet and fruity twist. Fruit bread brings delightful flavors and essential nutrients. Bread is rich in vital carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Incorporating fruits like bananas, apples, oranges, raisins, mango, and pineapples elevate the taste of bread to a different level. More importantly, it enhances the nutritional content of your bread. You can enjoy a healthier and tastier bread experience with these simple recipes. 5 Delicious Homemade Fruit Bread Recipes  Banana Bread Nutrition Bananas are a nutrient powerhouse. It’s rich in potassium, fiber, and vitamins B6 and C. Bananas support heart health, aid digestion, and provide a quick energy boost making them an excellent choice for a healthy snack. Ingredients 3 ripe bananas (mashed), 1 cup white sugar, 1 egg, ¼ cup melted butter, 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1 teaspoon salt. Read more: 5 Drumstick Recipes for Snacks Lovers Instructions First, gather all the necessary ingredients. Next, you need to warm up your oven beforehand to 325°F (165°C) for 15-20 minutes and grease a loaf pan (10 by 4 inches). By that time, combine bananas, sugar, egg, and butter in a bowl. Take another bowl and mix flour and baking soda. Then stir into the banana mixture until just smoothly mixed. After that add salt and pour the mixed batter into the loaf pan.  Bake it for about 1 hour in the preheated oven. After an hour insert a toothpick in the center to check. If your toothpick comes out clean, the bead is nicely baked. It’s ready to enjoy. Orange Bread Nutrition Oranges are refreshing and nutritious packed with vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. It promotes a strong immune system and healthy skin. They also support heart health and aid in better digestion.  Read more: Having Snacks while Watching Sports: 10 yummy, nutritious, easy recipes Ingredients  2 eggs, 1½ cups granulated sugar, orange zest (from 1 orange), 3 oranges (3/4 cup juice), 1110 grams unsalted butter (softened), 2 cups all-purpose flour, and 3 teaspoons baking powder. Instructions First, prepare to warm your oven in advance to 375°F/190°C for 15-20 minutes. By that time, in a large bowl, cream together the eggs and sugar until it’s smooth and pale. In the mixture, add orange zest, ½ cup freshly squeezed orange juice, and butter. Then mix everything thoroughly using an electric mixer. Next, gradually pour flour and baking powder into the mixture and continue mixing until everything is well blended.