Food from the heart and the hearth
About Mads’ Cookhouse
Hello there! I am Madhu, a young woman of seventy-plus who loves to cook, feed, and eat. My family calls me Mads. I cook up a storm in my cookhouse and my home always smells delicious. Borrowed teeth (dentures), borrowed leg (titanium rod), and borrowed eyes do not hold me. I am notorious for increasing waistlines and decreasing will power.
If you love to cook or just starting out, follow me as I cook up and share some lip smacking recipes. Food should be simple and easy to cook. I share secrets from my kitchen (and those of my mother). So grab that pen and paper (share/bookmark button) and let’s get going.
Lip-smacking Recipes
Chicken Achar (Punjabi Chicken Pickle)
A family favorite, Chicken Achar was a must each time we had a long journey. Often confused with achari chicken, this Punjabi style recipe can last for days.
Chilli Garlic Prawns
Chilli Garlic Prawns is a perfect appetizer or side. Juicy prawns in a delicious sauce, it will have you reaching out for more. All it takes is 15 minutes to make and works great as a party starter.
Jeera Aloo (Spicy Cumin Potatoes)
There is nothing quite as satisfying as Jeera Aloo or spicy cumin potatoes. Quick and easy to make, it is a perfect side for lunch or dinner. Each family has its own variation. This is my version.
Achari Bhindi Masala
Achari bhindi or okra is a popular vegetarian side dish loved by adults and kids alike. Infused with the flavors of pickle or achar, this lip-smacking recipe is easy to prepare and ready in minutes.
Spicy Chicken Wings
Juicy, delectable, and low calorie. A family favorite, spicy chicken wings are easy to make with little or no oil. This no fuss air fryer recipe uses ingredients available in your kitchen.
Matar Pulao (Green Peas Pulao)
Matar pulao (green peas pulao) was a staple in our home growing up. Each family has its own recipe. This one using pre-boiled rice works perfectly with leftover rice.
Instant Rava Vadas
Craving some vadas? Now you don’t have to wait to soak the dals overnight. Try out these Instant Rava Vadas that are crisp on the outside and soft inside.
Cocktail Idlis
A perfect tea-time snack, Cocktail Idlis are hit with friends and family. Healthy and ready in minutes, they work great in the tiffin for kids too.
Pan Roasted Balsamic Garlic Mushrooms
Mushrooms are an excellent source of protein. This quick and easy fusion recipe works great for a tea time snack and as a side too.
Za’atar and Yoghurt Dip
A yummy snack needs a great dip to elevate it. If you are sick of serving ketchup, mayonnaise, and chutneys, try out this simple dip.