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Most people think of a kettle as a single-use appliance meant only for boiling water. But with the arrival of programmable kettles, there is much more you can do in a safe and convenient way. These kettles come with multiple temperature settings, stay-warm features, and stainless steel or glass interiors that do not interfere with flavours. In Indian homes, herbal drinks, spiced teas, and light soups are often prepared as part of daily routines. A programmable kettle like one from Usha can handle many of these tasks, especially when time is short or the kitchen is unavailable. Students, working professionals, or people living in small spaces can benefit from learning how to use these features for more than just making tea.
Lemon Coriander Soup
Lemon coriander soup is a light and clear soup that works well during the day or evening. You can prepare this in a kettle by using a small steel infuser basket or a mesh tea ball. Add chopped ginger, garlic, green chilli, and fresh coriander stems to the basket. Fill the kettle with clean water and select the boiling option. Once the water has boiled, drop in the basket and let the ingredients steep for five minutes. Remove the basket and stir in salt and lemon juice. You can sprinkle some fresh coriander leaves on top and close the lid to keep it warm. This soup is good for digestion and hydration, and it works well when you are tired or want something light after a long day.
Tulsi, Mulethi And Ginger Infusion
This infusion is a well-known home remedy for coughs, sore throats, and general tiredness. Add a few fresh tulsi leaves, a small piece of mulethi (liquorice root), grated ginger, and some crushed peppercorns to the kettle. Set the kettle to heat the water just below boiling. Let it steep for eight to ten minutes. You can use a strainer to remove the solids once the infusion turns golden in colour and gives off a strong herbal smell. Some people like to stir in a spoon of honey once the drink has cooled slightly. This can be poured into a flask and sipped slowly through the day. It is helpful during monsoon and winter, but can also be used after a heavy meal or during mild cold symptoms.
Simple Noodle Soup
Instant noodle soup can also be made in a programmable kettle, but care must be taken to avoid anything that could damage the heating element. First, check if your kettle allows for open-lid heating and stirring. Break the noodles into smaller pieces and place them in a stainless steel container that fits inside the kettle but does not touch the bottom. Add chopped vegetables like carrots, peas, or spring onion if you want something more filling. Pour hot water over the noodles and vegetables. Add the tastemaker or seasoning and close the lid. Allow the noodles to sit for five to six minutes. Stir once gently and let them soften fully. This can work well as a quick evening meal or a light lunch. Always clean the kettle thoroughly after making anything with starch to keep the appliance in good condition.
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Green Tea With Fresh Add-Ins
Green tea becomes more flavourful when brewed with the correct method and temperature. Boiling water can make green tea taste bitter. Use the programmable kettle’s 80–85°C setting and add your green tea leaves to an infuser basket. You can also add slices of lemon, a few mint leaves, or thin strips of ginger if you prefer extra freshness. Let the tea steep for two to three minutes only. Avoid steeping for too long, as it can affect the flavour. Remove the basket and pour the tea into a cup. This is a good option for mornings or post-lunch when you want something light and calming. It also helps with digestion and refreshes the palate.
Instant Vegetable Clear Broth
For something more filling, a basic clear vegetable broth can also be brewed in a kettle. Use a tea basket or strainer to hold small pieces of carrot, beans, spring onion, and cabbage. Add a few cloves of garlic and a pinch of black pepper to the water in the kettle. Boil and then allow the broth to simmer by using the kettle’s lower heat setting. Avoid adding oil or any starch, as this could affect the kettle’s surface. After ten minutes of slow steeping, remove the vegetables and pour the broth into a bowl. You can sprinkle some salt and fresh herbs like parsley or coriander. This is ideal for people who are recovering from illness or looking for something gentle on the stomach during the evening.
Masala Chai-Style Herbal Infusion
This version is not a full milk-based chai, but a herbal infusion that carries similar warmth and spices. You can use crushed cardamom pods, cloves, fennel seeds, cinnamon, and a bit of grated ginger. Add these directly to the kettle water and heat just below boiling to avoid making the flavour too sharp. After around five to six minutes, the water will turn fragrant and slightly spiced. Strain the mixture and drink it plain or with a splash of warm milk added after. This is a good evening option when you do not want caffeine but still want a warm, familiar drink. The spices used also help with digestion and keeping the body warm in cooler temperatures.
