Exotic Foods

Casserole: Meat And Vegetable Dish

Originally, casserole recipes consisted of rice that was pounded, pressed and filled with a savoury mixture of meat or sweetbread. In the 1870s, the casserole took on its current form. In the US, a casserole is typically a baked food with pieces of chicken or ground meat, or fish (usually tuna), or beans along with various chopped or canned vegetables, flour, potato, rice or pasta. Cooking casserole in earthenware became less popular in the US in the 1950s when lightweight metal and glass cookware became available

On the other hand, in the UK, Australia and New Zealand, the casserole is typically a dish of meat with vegetables and pasta, and cooked in creamy sauces. In Britain, the terms 'casserole' and 'stew' tend to be used interchangeably. Some distinguish them by the mode of preparation: a stew is cooked on a stove top while a casserole is cooked in an oven.

Recipe Link: Casserole

(Video: Courtesy Marks Home Kitchen)

Goan Meat Stew 

India's western State of Goa, which was under Portuguese rule for around 450 years, is known for its famous cuisine. Rice, seafood, coconut, vegetables, meat, pork, bread and local spices are some of the main ingredients in Goan cuisine. Use of kokum (tamarind) and vinegar is another distinct feature. The cuisine of Goa, though originated in the regional Konkani  style, has had enormous Portuguese influence. The Portuguese introduced cashew nuts, pineapples, guavas, potatoes, and tomatoes from Latin America to Goa. Chillies, introduced by the Portuguese, are the most important aspect of Goan cuisine, though it became highly popular as an important spice for wider Indian cuisine.

Goan Stew is a mixture of chicken, beef, vegetables and macaroni that is simmered in a creamy gravy. It is then flavoured with mild spices, which makes it comforting and perfect for everyday or a special occasion.

Recipe Link: Goan Meat Stew

(Video: Courtesy Click On Goa)