Bambino Treat

Bambino Treat Recipe - Delicious Indian Dish

Region / culture: India | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

The Bambino Treat is a delightful and savory dish that brings together the rich flavors of various lentils, spices, and Bambino Samaiya, a type of vermicelli. This recipe is a perfect blend of taste, texture, and nutrition, making it an ideal choice for any meal of the day. Whether you're looking for a hearty breakfast, a fulfilling lunch, or a light dinner, the Bambino Treat caters to all your cravings with its unique and mouth-watering taste.

History

The Bambino Treat has its roots in Indian cuisine, where vermicelli has been used for centuries in various dishes, ranging from sweet to savory. The use of lentils and spices in the recipe is a testament to the traditional Indian cooking style, which emphasizes the balance of flavors and nutrition. Over time, this recipe has evolved, incorporating ingredients like potatoes and groundnuts, to enhance its taste and nutritional value. Today, the Bambino Treat stands as a modern interpretation of traditional Indian cooking, appealing to both traditionalists and modern food enthusiasts alike.

Ingredients

1 tbsp urad dal
1 tbsp arhar dal
1 tsp jeera
1 tsp mustard
2 whole dried red chillies
1 and a half teaspoon red chilli powder
0.75 tsp haldi
1 and a half teaspoon salt
2 green chillies (chopped)
a few curry leaves
1 pinch Hing
3 and a half tablespoon groundnut oil
0.75 packet Bambino Samaiya
0.75 cup groundnuts
1 potato
1 lemon
coriander leaves
water in container

How to prepare

1. Boil water in a container with 2 tbsp of oil. Add about 3 tbsp of salt to the boiling water.
2. Add Bambino from the packet and stir a little.
3. Boil the Bambino for about 2 minutes only, until it becomes slightly soft.
4. Drain the water using a holed kitchen container (Steel Channi with big holes).
5. Put all the leftover Bambino (without the water) in a Parat (utensil required for kneading flour).
5a. Add lemon juice to it and mix well.
6. Add oil in a Kadhai.
7. Deep fry the small chopped pieces of potato and keep them in a bowl.
8. Fry the groundnuts and keep them in a bowl.
9. Add the ingredients under (A) for frying (as Tadka).
10. Add the boiled Bambino to the Kadhai.
11. Mix the Tadka and Bambino in the Kadhai well. Take care not to mash up the Bambino.
12. Add the fried potatoes and groundnuts to the Kadhai and mix.
13. Garnish with small pieces of coriander leaves.
14. Serve hot.

Variations

For a healthier version, you can use whole wheat Bambino Samaiya and reduce the amount of oil used for frying.
Adding vegetables like peas, carrots, and bell peppers can increase the nutritional value and add color to the dish.
For a non-vegetarian twist, you can include small pieces of chicken or shrimp.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the Bambino Treat turns out perfectly, here are some tips and tricks:

- Boil the Bambino Samaiya just until it's slightly soft to avoid overcooking.

- Deep frying the potatoes and groundnuts separately ensures they retain their crunch and flavor.

- Adding lemon juice to the boiled Bambino Samaiya enhances its taste and prevents it from sticking together.

- The key to a flavorful Tadka is to fry the spices at the right temperature; too hot, and they will burn, too cool, and they won't release their flavors.

Serving Suggestions

The Bambino Treat can be served hot as a main dish. It pairs well with a side of yogurt or raita to balance the spices. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a green salad or steamed vegetables.

Cooking Techniques

Deep frying the potatoes and groundnuts separately ensures they are crispy and add texture to the dish. The technique of boiling and then frying the Bambino Samaiya is crucial for achieving the perfect consistency.

Ingredient Substitutions

For those allergic to groundnuts, almonds or cashews can be used as a substitute.

- Quinoa or whole wheat pasta can replace Bambino Samaiya for a gluten-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

The Bambino Samaiya can be boiled and mixed with lemon juice a day ahead. Store it in the refrigerator to save time on the day of cooking.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Bambino Treat in a colorful bowl, garnished with fresh coriander leaves and a wedge of lemon on the side. A sprinkle of finely chopped green chillies can add a pop of color and heat for those who enjoy spicy food.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, crisp white wine or a cold beer pairs well with the spicy and savory flavors of the Bambino Treat. For a non-alcoholic option, a mint or cucumber cooler can be refreshing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a microwave or on the stove, adding a little water if the dish seems dry.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Bambino Treat contains approximately 300-400 calories, making it a moderate-calorie dish that can fit into a balanced diet. Adjusting the amount of oil and groundnuts can help manage the calorie content according to dietary needs.

Carbohydrates

The Bambino Treat is a good source of carbohydrates, primarily from Bambino Samaiya and potatoes. Carbohydrates are essential for energy, and this dish provides a balanced amount to keep you energized throughout the day.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come from the oil used for frying and the groundnuts. These fats are essential for absorbing vitamins and providing energy. Using a healthier oil option like olive or canola oil can make this dish more heart-friendly.

Proteins

Lentils, groundnuts, and potatoes contribute to the protein content of the Bambino Treat. Proteins are crucial for building and repairing tissues, making this dish a good option for a post-workout meal or to support overall health.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, thanks to the variety of ingredients used. Potatoes and groundnuts are good sources of Vitamin C and B vitamins, while lentils provide iron and magnesium. Together, they make the Bambino Treat not just tasty but also nutritionally balanced.

Alergens

The primary allergens in this recipe are groundnuts and gluten (from Bambino Samaiya). Those with allergies to these ingredients should exercise caution and consider suitable substitutions.

Summary

Overall, the Bambino Treat is a balanced dish that offers a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals. It's a flavorful and nutritious option for anyone looking to enjoy a traditional Indian meal with a modern twist.

Summary

The Bambino Treat is a versatile and flavorful dish that combines the goodness of lentils, spices, and Bambino Samaiya. With its rich nutritional profile and delicious taste, it's a great addition to any meal. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or experiment with variations, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds and nutritional needs.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Bambino Treat. It was many years ago, back when I was just a young girl living in the countryside with my family. Our neighbor, Mrs. Jenkins, was known for her delicious baking and she would often share her recipes with me.

One sunny afternoon, I was playing in our yard when Mrs. Jenkins called me over to her kitchen window. She had just taken a batch of these sweet treats out of the oven and the delicious smell wafted through the air. She handed me a warm Bambino Treat and I took a bite, savoring the chewy texture and the burst of flavor from the dried fruits and nuts.

I was instantly hooked and begged Mrs. Jenkins to teach me how to make them. She invited me into her kitchen and together we went through the ingredients and the steps to make the Bambino Treat. I watched her carefully as she mixed the dough, adding in the dried fruits and nuts, and then shaping the treats into small balls before baking them in the oven.

As the treats baked, Mrs. Jenkins shared stories of her own childhood and how she had learned to make the Bambino Treat from her own grandmother. She told me about the different variations of the recipe and how she had tweaked it over the years to make it her own. I listened intently, soaking in every detail and feeling grateful for the opportunity to learn from such a talented baker.

When the treats were finally done, Mrs. Jenkins let me try one fresh out of the oven. It was even better than the first one, with a perfect balance of sweetness and nuttiness. I was so proud of myself for helping to make them and felt a sense of accomplishment that I had learned something new that day.

From then on, I would visit Mrs. Jenkins regularly to bake with her and learn more of her delicious recipes. The Bambino Treat became a staple in our household, with my family and friends always eager to have a taste of the chewy, fruity treats that I had learned to make. I would often package them up in pretty boxes and give them as gifts, spreading the joy of baking that Mrs. Jenkins had shared with me.

Over the years, I have continued to make the Bambino Treat, adding my own twists and variations to the recipe. Sometimes I would swap out the dried fruits for chocolate chips or add in a hint of cinnamon for a warm, spicy flavor. Each batch would bring back memories of that sunny afternoon in Mrs. Jenkins' kitchen, where I first discovered the joy of baking and the love that goes into creating something delicious for others to enjoy.

Now, as I pass on the recipe for Bambino Treat to my own grandchildren, I feel a sense of pride and nostalgia. I hope that they will find the same joy and fulfillment in baking as I have, and that they will carry on the tradition of sharing delicious treats with their loved ones. For me, the Bambino Treat will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the simple pleasures in life and the bonds that are formed through the sharing of food and recipes.