January 2026 – Mrs. Mack's Spice of Life!

Okra Sambhar

These days, this is my quick, weeknight version of sambhar , the one I instinctively reach for when I want maximum comfort with minimum fuss. It still delivers all the depth and balance I love, just without overthinking it. Sambhar is a South Indian lentil and vegetable stew, traditionally served with rice for lunch orContinue reading “Okra Sambhar”

Mangalorean Aubergine Green Curry

This is a Mangalorean green curry made exactly the way my mum would cook it at home. It’s the kind of everyday dish that never needed a recipe card, just instinct, fresh ingredients, and years of cooking for the family. In our house, my mum would make this green curry as an occasion treat. TheContinue reading “Mangalorean Aubergine Green Curry”

A Vegetarian Showstopper That Truly Delivered: Jamie Oliver’s Veggie Christmas Filo

When you cook often, especially for guests, you build a mental list of safe dishes, the ones you know will work. But every now and then, a recipe comes along that tempts you to step outside that comfort zone. Jamie Oliver’s Veggie Christmas Filo was one of those for me. I’d watched Jamie make thisContinue reading “A Vegetarian Showstopper That Truly Delivered: Jamie Oliver’s Veggie Christmas Filo”

Tomato Saar

Tomato Saar is a simple, soupy tomato preparation that my mum would whip up whenever she needed something quick, light, and comforting for lunch / dinner. It’s one of those dishes that feels soothing and nourishing, especially when paired with rice. Ingredients 4 large ripe tomatoes Salt, to taste Water, as needed For the temperingContinue reading “Tomato Saar”

Kanda Poha – A Taste of Home and a Thousand Memories

This is one of those dishes that instantly takes me back to childhood. Mum would make Kanda Poha for breakfast, or sometimes for tea time — tea in India meaning the 4–5:30 pm snack, not to be confused with British “tea”, which I quickly learned actually means dinner or supper. As you can imagine, thatContinue reading “Kanda Poha – A Taste of Home and a Thousand Memories”

Avlu (Flattened Rice)

Avlu is a simple, traditional breakfast that my mum would rustle up on some mornings — quick, comforting, and quietly satisfying. It’s made with flattened rice and comes together in minutes, but the flavours are surprisingly lovely. This recipe makes one serving and the accompanying picture is made with chilly powder. Ingredients Method Add allContinue reading “Avlu (Flattened Rice)”