Uncertainty, for me it’s a beautiful surprise, the truth of life……

Had very few expectations, strongly believed the saying “Expectations lead to Disappointments”. Loved uncertainty to a great extent, mostly when I was just me, but after marriage still didn’t mind it but wanted to be careful, can’t play around with little souls, right!!

Though got disturbed by uncertainty, to start with, touch wood results were amazing all the time….almost. I have always believed in the energies surrounding us. In any situation, it is purely how we behave, how we think, the unseen, unknown energy around us contribute to the results. Even when uncertain, I trusted I would see positive results. This way of thinking kept me stress free, and happy.

A paragraph I read somewhere which is so true, I had to share it as it is: “Certainty is not biologically possible. We must learn and teach our children to tolerate the unpleasantness of uncertainty. Science has given us the language and tools of probabilities. We have methods for analyzing and ranking opinion according to their likelihood of correctness. That is enough.”

Living with uncertainty for sure gives me a buzz, keeps me alert and on my toes. I feel I am, no no, I am ready for adventure any time. Quick decisions and even faster actions.

“Uncertainty is the only certainty there is, and knowing how to live with insecurity is the only security.”  John Allen Paulos

I think it’s interesting to live without knowing then have an answer
which might be wrong. Do your best, feel your best and be healthy…..these lead to positive thinking. It’s our choice to live the way we want but should remember not at the cost of somebody else.

Enjoying my summer break with kids not certain what to do, have no idea what ma has planned for dinner too. The amazing part, she was not sure what to make, then we just came up with this master piece from the chef herself…………not a new or her own recipe but she was so excited to know that I was going to take pictures for my blog.

Chettinad Alu

Potatoes, like everyone, I too thought it was not that healthy. It was a surprise to discover one medium potato (5.3 oz) with the skin contains:

• 45 percent of the daily value for vitamin C
• More potassium (620 mg) than even bananas, spinach, or broccoli,.

…and all this for just 110 calories and no fat, sodium or cholesterol.

Now add some exotic southern spices to this fabulous tuber and surprise yourself.

Ingredients: Makes 4 to 6 servings

• Potatoes                                         6 medium (cut into cubes)
• Onions                                           2 small sliced thinly
• Curry leaves                                  a couple of leaves
• Mustard seeds                              1 tsp
• Turmeric                                       1 tsp
• Bay leaf                                          1
• Tomatoes                                      1 large (sliced into small pieces)
• salt                                                  to taste
• Oil                                                   2 tbsp

To sauté and grind:

• Whole coriander seeds              1 1/2 tbsp.
• Dry red chilly                               2 to 3 (according to taste)
• Fresh or dry coconut                  2 tbsp. (grated)
• Ginger                                           1 1/2 tsp
• Garlic                                            4 cloves
• Cumin seeds                                 1 tsp
• Cloves                                            3
• Cinnamon                                    1/4 inch piece
• Cardamom                                   2
• Star anise                                     single petal
• Fennel seeds                                1 tsp
• Poppy seeds                                 1 tsp
• Black pepper                                1/2 tsp

Directions: 

To sauté and grind: Heat a medium size sauce pan on medium high heat. Add 1/2 tbsp oil, wait for 30 secs then add the ingredients in order, the way in the list. Transfer the roasted  mix in to a grinder. Grind it to a fine paste, by adding water little by little.

Wipe the sauce pan clean and heat it on medium heat with the remaining oil. Add  the mustard seeds, wait till they start popping, then add the cut onions, curry leaves and bay leaf. Fry till the onions turn light brown, add the potatoes, turmeric and salt, sauté for another 1 mins, then add water, enough to immerse the potatoes. Let it cook.

Add the grinded mixture when the potatoes are 3/4 cooked, add tomatoes along with it too, don’t forget them… Bring to a boil and let it cook till the tomatoes are cooked, for may be another 7 to 8 mins.

Garnish with coriander leaves and serve with parathas or hot steaming rice……….it is for sure certain, to burn your mouth if not careful. Enjoy!!