dairy-free Archives

Ghee – Indian Clarified Butter

Posted on April 4, 2018April 22, 2019 by Indrani

Growing up, rice with butter and salt was a staple in my diet and it is also eaten quite often by my own children. But when we got to have ghee with our rice, that was something special. It reminds me of my grandmother. After she mixed the rice up with the ghee and salt,…

Rajma – Vegetarian Chili

Posted on February 2, 2018April 22, 2019 by Indrani

It’s winter and Baby, it’s cold outside. It’s also now February which is officially Soup Month. What are some of your go to soups in the wintertime? I know for me, I love a hearty soup on cold days and chili is one of those dishes that really satisfies. While growing up, rajma was a…

What does monbool mean? monbool is a word I made up. Mon (pronounced mōn) was my mother’s childhood nickname and Bool was my father’s childhood nickname. The passion I have for what I am doing came from them, so I have named this journey in their honor.

I am Indrani, a first generation Indian-American whose parents originally migrated from Kolkata, India. My passion and inspiration for cooking developed from spending time in the kitchen and learning from my father who would cater for large gatherings. My mother encouraged all forms of art, including drawing, dance and music. Growing up with a strong, traditional Indian upbringing, my parents also encouraged participation in the American culture. And now in my own mixed culture family, the fusion of Indian and American traditions is embraced by my husband and children.