Lime juice should be added when making jams in order to release the pectin in fruit and allow the jam to set properly.

In cold weather, ‘idli’ batter requires more time to ferment. Add a sachet of fruit salts to the newly-ground mix and the process will be faster. The ‘idlis’ will also be very soft.

Instead of throwing away the skins of cardmom (elaichi), put them in a bottle of tea leaves, which adds an extra flavour to the tea when it is brewed.

Soak orange peels in a little vinegar till soft then mix with a ready lime pickle. It tastes delicious.

To make the chickoo milkshake tastier, add two to three drops of vanilla essence.