The tandoori chicken recipe that beat celebrity chef Bobby Flay

Shelby Reynolds, Naples Daily News, 10/9/2018

What does it take to beat world-famous chef Bobby Flay?

Tandoori chicken, apparently. (And more than 20 years of professional cooking experience.)

Editors note: to see the full article please visit here. We enjoyed participating in Chef Asif’s premier party.

We are also taking Chef Asif and 18 lucky people to visit his home land in India. For more info on this Asian India experience call 772-888-1573. Space is limited!

21 Spices Chef Asif Syed's winning dish on Food Network's "Beat Bobby Flay" — fiery-hot tandoori chicken smoked in a Moroccan tagine.

SUBMITTED

Tandoori chicken recipe

Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

For the marinade:

½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

• 2 tsp chopped ginger

• 2 tsp garlic paste

• 1 tsp curry powder

• Handful of chopped cilantro

• Handful of chopped mint 

• ¼ tsp red food coloring (optional)

• 1 tsp garam masala

• 1 tsp Kashmiri red chili powder

• 2 tsp kosher salt

  2 tsp + ¼ cup vegetable oil

• 6 medium-sized, bone-in chicken drumsticks (boneless chicken breast or thigh can be substituted)

For the chana masala and tandoori chicken:

• 3 tsp ghee

• 1 tsp cumin seeds

• 1 tsp curry leaves

• 1 large red onion, chopped

• 1 tsp minced ginger

• 1 tsp minced garlic 

  Handful of chopped cilantro

• Handful of chopped mint

• 1 can garbanzo beans

• 3 fully ripe red tomatoes, diced

• Juice of 1 lemon

• 2 burning charcoal pieces

• 1 stick of butter

• 1 tsp garam masala

For the grilled pineapple raita:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt

• 3 tsp honey

  ¼ pineapple, grilled and finely chopped

• 1 pinch cumin

• 1 pinch cayenne

• 1 pinch of salt

  Prepare the marinade by combining sour cream, ginger, garlic paste, curry powder, chopped cilantro, mint, red food coloring, garam masala, Kashmiri red chili, salt and 2 teaspoons of the vegetable oil. 

  Clean the bone of the drumstick. Remove the skin and create gashes with a sharp knife. Toss in the sour cream mixture and marinate for 1 hour at room temperate or overnight in the fridge.

  Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

  Set a tagine over medium to high heat and coat the bottom with the remaining vegetable oil. Sear the chicken drumsticks on both sides and remove from tagine. Place drumstricks on a sheet pan and finish in the oven for 20 minutes.

  Meawhile, prepare the chana masala by adding the following ingredients to the tagine: ghee, cumin seeds, curry leaves, chopped onions, ginger, garlic, cilantro, mint, garbanzo beans, diced tomatoes and lemon juice. 

  After 20 minutes, remove the chicken from the oven and return to the tagine. Place two pieces of burning charcoal inside a small steel ramekin, and put in center of tagine. Surround it with chicken drumsticks. Add butter and garam masala to the ramekin, so that the charcoal begins to smoke. Place the lid over the tagine and smoke the chicken for about 2 minutes.

  Prepare grilled pineapple raita by mixing Greek yogurt, honey, grilled and chopped pineapple, cumin, cayenne and salt.

  Plate the chana masala and rest chicken drumsticks on top. Garnish with micro greens and a dollop of raita.

• 21 Spices is at 4270 U.S. 41 E., Suite 21, East Naples; 239-919-8830; 21spicesdining.com

Executive chef Asif R. Syed in his Naples restaurant 21 Spices on Saturday, Dec. 3, 2016.

NICOLE RAUCHEISEN/NAPLES DAILY NEWS

Why you should always dress up fOr a flight

BY SOPHIE-CLAIRE HOELLER / THISISINSIDER.COMFEBRUARY 03, 2017

CONDÉ NAST / GETTY

This story originally appeared on Thisisinsider.com. 

"Girl, I LOVE your boots!" a flight attendant recently said to me on a New York to Los Angeles flight. I was wearing heeled, over-the-knee boots, mainly because I couldn't fit them in my carry-on.

He then touched me on the arm, looked me in the eyes, and said earnestly, "Thank you for dressing up. It means a lot to us flight attendants, and no one does that anymore."

If that isn't enough of a reason to ditch those sweatpants when flying, I don’t know what is.

Of course, these days dressing up for a flight doesn't automatically mean you'll get an upgrade — too many loyalty programs, the frequency of overbooking — but that's no excuse for dressing like a college kid late for their Monday-morning class.

I get it, flights are long, seats are uncomfortable. You want to wear something flexible and not sit on buttons for eight hours. You think that because you're  no longer getting chateaubriand carved seat-side, you shouldn't have to bother wearing anything formfitting. You feel like you're being treated in an undignified manner, so you should be free to dress that way.

But there's a difference between looking sloppy and being comfortable — you can look put-together and still be cozy.

Here are four reasons why you should dress up on a flight:

Related: 26 Places You Should Visit Before They Disappear Forever

You may get an upgrade

These days, most flights are overbooked, but in the rare instance that they aren't, being better dressed than all the other schlubs will give you an edge.

When AirFareWatchdog.com founder George Hobica asked a gate agent directly whether they'd be more likely to upgrade someone who was dressed well, the answer was, "Yes, the better dressed you are, the more likely you are to nab that seat. I am not going to put someone wearing flip-flops up front with our best customers."

Related: Vintage Photos Show How Glamorous Flying Used to Be

You'll save space in your suitcase

If you're bringing sweats and schlubby clothes that you don't plan on wearing again on your trip, you're wasting precious suitcase space.

Wearing heavier items like boots and a sweater is not only a space saver, but practical: You can plan other outfits around those items, and thus have more ensembles while packing fewer clothes.

You'll feel better about yourself 

Besides never knowing who you might meet on a plane, you'll feel better about yourself once you land — ever landed in Europe wearing Crocs? You're also taking a step toward making flying a special occasion again — and you can't tell me that travel isn't a cause for celebration.

Related: This Abandoned Waterpark Is One of Vietnam'S Best-kept Secrets

You'll make work more pleasant for the flight attendant

Planes are their workplace. No one wants to wait on someone in basketball shorts and dirty flip-flops.

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Italy

Travel insights from Traveling Well by Collette

Italy is on many a top 5 bucket list, and for good reason! It's an absolutely incredible place full of history, culture, cuisine, art, gorgeous landscapes and so much more. Here are 5 reasons why Italy should be on your short list of must-see destinations.

1. Cities and villages that are works of art

Wonderful old Italian destinations like Venice, Milan, Verona and Rome are architecturally stunning. Charming villages like Cinque Terre, Taormina, and Bellagio are romantic, beautiful and tell magnificent stories about the past. Wander the streets and take it all in. It's like stepping back in time.

2. Beaches

Italy has a large number of beaches, all of them with their own unique charm. They range from rustic and secluded to tropical and luxurious and everything in between. Consider the Amalfi Coast and the Italian Riviera for an extra special treat.

3. Lakes

Italy is known for its beautiful lakes, and Lake Como is no exception. This picturesque lake is located near the Swiss border; Lake Como is the third largest lake in Italy. It's dotted with ancient villages and gorgeous villas set against the dramatically steep hills and grand mountains of the Italian Alps, this is like no place you have ever seen.

4. Roman ruins and Greek temples

No matter where you Rome (see what we did there?) in Italy, you're bound to find some fascinating ruins somewhere. Look around for temples, arches and government buildings that date back 2,000 years. You'll find the best selection of Greek ruins in Sicily.

5. Mountains

Mountains might not be the first thing that most people think of when they think of Italy, but there are plenty of majestic slopes to admire. From the incredible Dolomites in the northeast to the Italian Alps to the north, your camera is in for a serious workout.

Top 10 Reasons to Sail a Luxury Cruise

1

Variety

We visit fascinating ports in the Mediterranean, Northern & Western Europe, Asia, the Caribbean, Australia & New Zealand, and the Panama Canal, Central & North America. We sail to hundreds of one-of-a-kind destinations, familiar iconic places, and smaller more exotic ports. Wherever you want to go, we've got an adventure with your name on it. At each destination, we’ll take you far beyond the ordinary with plenty of choices for local excursions that stir your imagination and leave a lasting impression. What kind of trip are you looking for? Every voyage combines sophisticated sailing with authentic cultural experiences that will deepen your understanding and appreciation of our amazing world, no matter where you go.

2

Value

No matter where you are in the world you’ll always enjoy plenty of unmatched inclusive amenities—select standard spirits, international beers and wines, gratuities, an AzAmazing EveningsSM event, and more, all with our compliments. Suite guests enjoy even more, including the attentive service of an English-trained butler. And, because you’re always at your hotel, there’s no need to worry about connecting flights or extra hotel and transportation costs.

3

THE Center OF IT ALL

Not only will Azamara Club Cruises take you to the most celebrated destinations on Earth, but on our 690-guest club-like ships, you’ll also go to less-traveled ports, enjoy scenic rivers and waterways that are off-limits to big cruise lines, and sail to the doorstep of great cities like Bangkok and Hong Kong. Cruise to the city center of Bordeaux, the heart of Seville, and within a short walk to Hong Kong’s buzzing nightlife. Now that’s a richer travel experience.

4

Custom HOLIDAY

Azamara Club Cruises is built on the idea that the greatest pleasure of travel comes from connecting with people and cultures through authentic local experiences. It all starts with what we like to call our Destination Immersion® experiences, so you can stay longer and experience more on 100% of our voyages. And Azamara Shore Excursions take that concept a step further. Travel deep into local life at every port with exclusive tours, one-of-a-kind experiences and more choices than ever. Unique offerings you won’t find anywhere else including Local Encounters and Overnight Experiences, and our private, bespoke, and always complimentary AzAmazing Evenings. Go places you’ve always dreamed about ... or never knew existed.

5

Exotic Locations AT YOUR OWN PACE

Visit exotic destinations, lots of them, the easy way. Do as the locals do, see as they see, and eat as they eat—all over the world. Without the worry of navigating unfamiliar places and busy tourist sites. With our in-depth knowledge of every port’s highlights and unique offerings, you’re in very good hands. Enjoy exclusive tours and excursions you won’t find anywhere else. And at the end of the day (or night), you can rest easy knowing you have award-winning accommodations and inclusive amenities to come back to, with a friendly, attentive crew and staff, ready to take you to yet another amazing place to discover.

6

Never A DULL MOMENT.

Vacation is a time to explore. It’s also a time to relax. Before or after a day of onshore discovery, or when sailing between destinations, we’ve got plenty of options for both. Find a tasteful collection of merchandise and beautiful jewelry in our onboard stores. Test your skills and luck at blackjack, roulette, or poker at the casino. Enjoy live performances of professional full-stage musical revues, classical soloists, bands and other entertainment. And don’t think of missing Azamara’s famous poolside White Night Party.

Or take off for a quiet moment in the Drawing Room, explore the world with Azamara’s 100-inch Inspiration Center, float around in the pool or soak in the hot tub. Take in an enrichment program, class or guest lecturer. Treat yourself to an oceanfront massage, a pampering manicure or a healing acupuncture treatment. Join in an onboard fitness or nutrition class. And end the day with sunset yoga on the deck. With all of that waiting for you onboard, imagine what’s waiting for you onshore.

7

Feels LIKE HOME. ONLY BETTER

With so much variety in destinations, excursions, activities and dining, cruises are the perfect family and multigenerational travel solution no. And an Azamara voyage is perfectly designed to make everyone happy and feel at home. A bartender who knows your drink. Cold bottled water and towels on the outdoor track. Ice cream and a jazz band greeting you as you return to the ship at the end of a long day. Our top-tier service is genuinely friendly, attentive and professional. You’ll also love the feeling of community you won’t find anywhere else, thanks to a crew who really like to mingle with guests, point out special things at sea and onshore, and go above and beyond your expectations. Azamara's destinations and offerings may bring you onboard, but our staff, crew and officers will keep you coming back. That's the Azamara difference.

8

Connected. FROM SHIP TO SHORE.

You may be off the grid, but you’re not out of touch. While at sea, you can stay in touch with family, friends and colleagues by cell phone, Internet/Wi-Fi, phone or mail.

Plus, we’ve reimagined our digital experience, bringing innovative transformations to our two ships—Azamara Journey® and Azamara Quest®—from bow to stern for a brand-new profound digital guest experience. Pervasive Wi-Fi. Interactive TV for on-demand entertainment and live TV feeds, as well as cruise, itinerary, and port information. Touchscreen walls and tables. Innovative ways to share your voyage experience digitally. And our new Inspiration Center, a large interactive display that allows you to explore the world so you can begin planning your next voyage.

9

ALL OF THE Vacation Fun.

Your journey will change the way you see the world. And yourself. Look better. Feel better. Go home invigorated. Enjoy health, beauty, and restorative treatments in our all new Sanctum Spa*, like an oceanfront massage or healing acupuncture treatment. Azamara is also pleased to offer a full range of complimentary onboard fitness and nutrition classes. So walk (or jog) on water, spin, lift, pose, and whatever else it is you do to stay in ship shape. We make it easy to stick to your usual routine (or maybe take up a new one), with the added incentive of spectacular ocean views. And, nothing beats that crisp ocean air.

*Renovations and upgrades are currently only available on the Azamara Journey. Renovations and upgrades will be completed on the Azamara Quest in April 2016.

10

Visit MANY LOCATIONS. UNPACK ONCE.

Pack as much or as little into your trip as you’d like. But your suitcase will only need to be unpacked once. On a cruise, you have the convenience of “a floating hotel” that follows you all over the world. So you can spend more time enjoying your vacation, and a lot less time—and money—figuring out where you’re going to stay. As you go out into the world, exploring fascinating places and exciting experiences, you can always take comfort in the fact that wherever you go, we’ll always be waiting for you—award-winning accommodations, inclusive amenities, and the people that make our world go round: our friendly, attentive crew and staff, ready to take you to yet another amazing place to discover.

We have partnered with Amawaterways River Cruises

https://www.amawaterways.com/agent/culinarylatitudes

So much happening in our company and this is one of the latest! Are you ready to book your next experience? Check out the website above and let us know what you think!

Wiener Schnitzel: Not Just an American Hot Dog Stand.

Weiner Schnitzel, photo credit: AMAwaterways

To some, the term “Wiener Schnitzel” conjures images of the world’s largest hot dog chain, renowned for its chili cheese fries. However, for those sailing the Danube, Wiener Schnitzel is a delicious introduction to Viennese cuisine.

Similar to a Milanese-style breaded cutlet, this national dish of Austria is made by pounding veal thin, then breading and frying until crisp. It is traditionally garnished with a slice of lemon and served with potato salad or parsley potatoes, and can be found on many a menu throughout Vienna and the surrounding region.

““Wiener Schnitzel” is actually protected by law in Austria—any dish using this term must be made from veal or called by another name.”

What’s in a Name? A Lot, Apparently

Outside of Austria, schnitzel is often made with chicken, beef or pork. However, the term “Wiener Schnitzel” is actually protected by law in Austria—any dish using this term must be made from veal or called by another name.

The history of the dish is the source of some contention. Italy claims to have invented Wiener Schnitzel for a banquet in 1134 while Austria attributes the term to a famous Austrian general in 1862 who spent much time near Milan. Regardless of where the dish originated, this novice-friendly recipe uses just a handful of ingredients and is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Start your Viennese food journey here! Schnitzel is what to make if you want to experience a traditional Austrian dinner.

Ingredients

4 veal cutlets, 6 oz. each
2 eggs
1 cup bread crumbs
½ cup flour
Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
½ cup vegetable oil for frying

Preparation Method

Season the veal cutlets with salt and pepper. Dip first in flour, then in egg wash, and finally in breadcrumbs. Press bread crumbs lightly on the meat. Deep fry in vegetable oil until golden brown. Place on paper towels to drain. Serve with potatoes and creamed green peas with carrots. Garnish with parsley, lemon and capers. 

Makes 4 servings.

Best Things to do in Katakolon Greece

When I saw Katakolon was one of the stops on our Mediterranean Cruise itinerary, I had never heard about it and had no idea what it was about. After a quick research, I realized this is the island in Greece I’m looking mostvfirward to visiting!

Greek Fishing Boat - Stock Ph0to

Katakolon is a small port and beach town in western Greece, facing the Ionian Sea. It is the second busiest port in all of Greece, after Piraeus. And it’s most famous for Olympia, the ancient site where the Olympic Games were born in the 8th century BC –basically, the reason cruise ships stop there at all.

Being not so into ruins or spending the whole day on a shore excursion, we decided to skip Olympia altogether and explore Katakolon on our own. It was the best thing we did.

Turns out the day we will spend in Katakolon will be spent with locals who have lived there for decades. A real Greek Iskand Experience! . You will get to grasp a more authentic side of Greece, not always easy to see in more manicured places like Santorini.

So here’s what to see, do and taste for a perfect day in Katakolon.

Remaining article credit: The Yogi Wanderer

Stroll around town

Upon our arrival to Katakolon early in the morning we found our way to the small seaside town, where a horde of travel agents was expecting the cruise passengers with information about all kinds of tourist excursions and programs available from Katakolon.

We passed them all, and strolled around the picturesque streets, full of souvenir shops, little cafes, and tavernas, and along the harbor, aligned with restaurants and bars admiring the sea.

The town itself is pretty small and you can see everything in less than an hour. 

Enjoy the breathtaking views

We still had a lot of time on our hands, so we decided to take the Katakolon Fun Tourist Train and explore further away, for only 6 Euros each (price for adults).

From the moment we departed from Katakolon into the countryside, I felt we were entering real Greece – a country made of green hills and valleys, vineyards and olive gropes, typical villages and crystal blue waters.

If only for the views of the landscape and the Ionian Sea, this train ride is well worth taking. We even got to experience a true Greek traffic jam, a.k.a. a flock of sheep that made the train and other vehicles slow down their pace.

Taste the local wine

The first stop on our train guided tour was the Mercouri Estate and Winery, where we were greeted by the owners and their cat.

Surrounded by 40 acres of vineyards, the Mercouri Winery is run by the fourth generation of the Mercoury family and is the second oldest estate in Greece. It was founded in 1864 and has over 150 years of history in the production of wine and olive oil.

Today, it grows more than 15 varieties of grape of both Greek and international origin and produces 13 different wines, as well as olive oil. Most of its products have repeatedly won international awards for their exceptional quality.

We paid 3 Euros for the admission ticket, which included a glass of red or white wine and a free walking around the property, where you can admire the family’s original residence and a small private church, the outside wine production area, and vineyards that stretch far out of sight. There are also peacocks, cats, dogs, geese, and a goat.

I really enjoyed wandering around the farm savoring its authentic rural charm and great wine!

Go to the beach

After our visit to the Mercouri Estate, we caught the next train to our last stop – Agios Andreas beach (you can jump in and out of the tourist trains with the same ticket).

Agios Andreas is a lovely little beach and beautiful bay, located in a tinny village with the same name. There’s a bar/restaurant just above the beach and loungers and umbrellas on the sand for the guests.

We visited in late October but the day was really hot and sunny, so we came prepared with our swimming suits – and we were so happy that we did it!

The beach is a bit rocky when you first enter the water, but if you go a little further away you can have a wonderful swim. Not to mention the temperature of the water, that was just perfect. We couldn’t help but spend a long time splashing around and playing underwater with my GoPro.

Unfortunately, we then had to hurry up to catch the last train back to Katakolon, but I can’t recommend this beach enough!