Staff Writer

Indian Desserts: A Sweet and Delicious Journey Across the Country

April 8, 2023 by Staff Writer

India offers an exquisite variety of desserts that captivate the taste buds. In this article, we survey the desserts from India’s many regions, showing the unique elements of delightful desserts. Discover the enchanting world of Indian sweets, from the Gulab Jamun and the Kaju Katli to the heartwarming Gajar Ka Halwa and the tender Rasgulla.

Gulab Jamun: Popular in northern and western India, Gulab Jamun is believed to have originated in the Mughal Empire. This dessert consists of milk solids, sugar, and rose water. Milk solids are soaked in sweet syrup, deep-fried until golden brown, and then soaked in a flavored syrup containing rose water, saffron, and cardamom. Gulab Jamuns are usually served warm.

Kaju Katli: A favorite in western and southern India, Kaju Katli is thought to have originated in Gujarat. Made from cashew nuts and sugar, the cashew nuts are ground into a fine paste and mixed with sugar and milk. The mixture is cooked until it forms a soft dough, then cut into diamond shapes and allowed to cool.

Gajar Ka Halwa: Commonly enjoyed in northern and western India, Gajar Ka Halwa is believed to have originated in Punjab. This dessert is made from carrots, milk, sugar, and cardamom. Grated carrots are cooked in milk until soft, then combined with sugar and cardamom. The mixture is cooked until it thickens into a pudding and is typically served warm.

Rasgulla: Popular in eastern and northeastern India, Rasgulla is thought to have originated in West Bengal. Made from milk and sugar, the milk is boiled to form a thick layer of cream, which is skimmed off and used to make rasgullas. Rasgullas are prepared by adding lemon juice to the milk and cooking it until it curdles. The curdled milk is strained, and the curds are shaped into balls, then boiled in sugar syrup until soft and fluffy. Rasgulla is usually served chilled.

Rasmalai: A beloved dessert in eastern India, Rasmalai is believed to have originated in West Bengal. This dessert consists of soft, spongy paneer (cottage cheese) balls soaked in a rich, creamy milk sauce flavored with cardamom, saffron, and sugar. The paneer balls are boiled in sugar syrup and then immersed in the flavored milk sauce, allowing them to absorb the delicate flavors. Rasmalai is typically garnished with chopped nuts and served chilled.

Kheer: A widely enjoyed Indian dessert, Kheer is made with rice, milk, sugar, and nuts. The rice is soaked in milk and cooked until soft before being mixed with sugar and nuts. The mixture is cooked until it thickens into a pudding and is typically served warm.

Payasam: Believed to have originated in Tamil Nadu, Payasam is made with milk, rice, and sugar. The milk is boiled before adding rice, which is cooked until soft. The cooked rice is mixed with sugar and nuts, and the mixture is cooked until it becomes a thick pudding. Payasam is usually served warm.

Falooda: Introduced to India by Persian immigrants, Falooda is a refreshing dessert consisting of rose syrup, milk, ice cream, and vermicelli. Rose syrup is mixed with milk, followed by the addition of ice cream. The mixture is topped with vermicelli and nuts, and Falooda is typically served chilled.

Mishti Doi: Hailing from West Bengal, Mishti Doi is made with yogurt, sugar, and spices. The yogurt is strained, mixed with sugar and spices, then chilled and served. Mishti Doi is often consumed as a breakfast or snack.

Ladoo: A well-known Indian dessert, Ladoo is made with various ingredients, including gram flour, sugar, and nuts. The gram flour is roasted, mixed with sugar and water, and then cooked until it forms a dough. The dough is shaped into balls and rolled in nuts. Ladoo is often served as a prasad (offering) to Hindu deities and at weddings.

Kulfi: Brought to India by the Mughals, Kulfi is an Indian ice cream made with milk, sugar, and nuts. The milk is boiled, and sugar is added and cooked until it dissolves. The mixture is churned until thick and creamy before being frozen in molds and served. Kulfi is usually enjoyed chilled.

India’s culinary heritage offers a diverse assortment of regional desserts. Each treat carries its own unique history and flavors, representing various aspects of the country’s culture. From the Mughal-inspired Gulab Jamun and Gujarati Kaju Katli to the Punjabi Gajar Ka Halwa and West Bengal’s Rasgulla, these desserts provide a delightful taste of India’s rich dessert traditions.

Discovering the Rich and Diverse History of Indian Cuisine in Curry: A Tale of Cooks and Conquerors

February 11, 2023 by Staff Writer

Curry: A Tale of Cooks and Conquerors by Lizzie Collingham is a comprehensive history of Indian cuisine that explores the origins and evolution of the flavors, ingredients, and cooking techniques that make up this vibrant and diverse culinary tradition. The book takes a broad look at the influence of Indian food on world cuisine and culture, including its impact on trade, colonization, and the movement of people and ideas.

Lizzie Collingham is a historian and food writer who has dedicated her career to exploring the cultural, social, and political factors that have shaped food throughout history. With a Ph.D. in history from the University of Cambridge, she has extensive knowledge and expertise in this field, making her the ideal author to write such a comprehensive history of Indian cuisine. In Curry, Collingham draws on her extensive research and writing skills to create a fascinating and accessible account of the rich and complex history of Indian food.

The book covers a wide range of topics, from the earliest Indian food culture to present-day fusion cuisine, offering readers insight into the development of Indian cuisine. It also touches on the social and political aspects of food, exploring how food played a significant role in shaping the history and culture of India.

Curry: A Tale of Cooks and Conquerors has been widely acclaimed for its engaging narrative style. The author has conducted in-depth research to bring to life the rich history of Indian cuisine vividly and entertainingly. The book weaves stories and anecdotes to make the complex history of Indian food accessible to a general audience.

Reviewers have praised the book for its accessible writing style, which makes it easy to understand and follow. The book places Indian cuisine within its historical and cultural context, exploring its connections to trade, colonization, and migration. The book’s broad scope, from ancient Indian food culture to modern-day fusion cuisine, makes it a fascinating read that deepens readers’ appreciation for the cultural, social, and political factors that have influenced Indian food throughout history. However, the book has received some criticism for being overly dense and detailed in places and for downplaying the contributions of women and lower-caste cooks in developing Indian cuisine. Despite these critiques, Curry is still a valuable and informative read for those interested in the history and culture of food.

Mastering Tadka: Tips, Tricks, and Techniques for a Perfect Finish

January 29, 2023 by Staff Writer

What is Tadka?

Tadka, also called chhonk, bagar, phodni, vagarne, oggarane and many other names, depending on where you are in India is an important part of Indian cooking. This process involves heating whole spices and sometimes other ingredients with oil or ghee, which allows for the extraction of aromas and flavors readily soluble in fat. The spices are then allowed to sizzle and release their flavors into the oil before being poured over the dish. Tadka is often used to finish dishes, such as dal or vegetable curries, just before serving.

Tadka’s ingredients are regionally-specific and tailored to personal taste, making each dish unique. The mix of flavors uses a variety of local spices to enhance the flavor. For instance, cumin is more popular in the north, while curry leaves are found aplenty in the south. Some common spices include mustard seeds, cumin seeds, fennel seeds, ginger, garlic onion, and asafoetida.

Tadka adds depth and complexity to the flavors of its dishes while remaining simple enough for anyone to incorporate into their recipe by adding oil or ghee, the dishes become richer and more satisfying, especially for those that are lean. Whole and ground spices, fresh and dried chiles, curry leaves, ginger, garlic, and onions provide vivid flavor, heat, and depth to the dishes. The whole spices also release pungent aromas that fill the kitchen and deliciously perfume the food. Furthermore, they add visual and textural character to the dishes, making them even more appealing.

How to use tadka?

Traditionally, tadka is added towards the end of cooking. It will bring out the flavors of the spices and infuse the dish with a rich aroma. To use tadka ou pour the tadka over the dish you wish to flavor, such as dal or curry.

Tadka Ingredients

To make tadka, you will need the following ingredients:

Whole, dried spices, seeds, and small beans (such as coriander, cumin, fennel, fenugreek, nigella, or sesame seeds, mustard seeds, green and black cardamom pods, cinnamon, turmeric, lentils and some beans, and asafetida)
Fresh ingredients (such as onions and shallots, ginger, and garlic)
Oil (such as vegetable, mustard, or ghee)

How to make tadka

Every tadka is different, but here is a guide to making it. Other cooks might do it differently, but this is the general process:

Prepare all the ingredients needed for the tadka, such as spices, ghee, or oil, and other ingredients like garlic, onions, etc.
Take a pan and heat it on high heat. Once the pan is hot, add ghee or oil and wait until it becomes hot.
Reduce the heat to medium and add the whole spices, like cumin seeds, mustard seeds, and dry red chili.
Once the whole spices crackle, add the chopped garlic, ginger, and onions. Cook them until they turn translucent.
Add ground spices, like turmeric powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, and red chili powder. Cook for a few seconds until they release their aroma.
Finally, add the diced tomatoes, and cook until they soften and release their juice.
Turn off the heat and add other ingredients like curry leaves, fresh cilantro, or green chilies.
Your tadka is now ready to be added to the final dish or served on its own.

It usually takes a minute for the spices in a tadka to brown, sizzle, and release their fragrance. Use your senses, especially sight, sound, and smell, to assess a tadka’s development. I prefer using sound and visual cues as guides rather than relying solely on exact time or temperature measurements.

When your Whole spices have completely imparted their flavor, they will take on a light toffee brown hue and softly sizzle. Be sure not to overcook them as this may result in an unpleasant bitter taste. The Curry leaves should be cooked until crisp yet translucent for the best results.

Tadka Tips

Be prepared by having all other ingredients or the final dish ready for the tadka – what the French call mise en place.
It’s important to use a small pan and not to overcook the ingredients. Otherwise, the spices may lose their flavor and aroma.
The ghee or oil should be very hot at first. Then reduce the heat to medium. Once that is done, add the spices. No water should be added to a tadka.
Add spices in the following order: Ingredients requiring longer cooking first (e.g. whole cumin seeds). Ingredients requiring less cooking later (e.g. chopped garlic)
The tadka is ready to be added to your dish when the spices begin to crackle or change color. This typically takes only seconds, so be prepared to move quickly.

Basmati Rice: The Fragrant Staple of Indian Cuisine

January 21, 2023 by Staff Writer

Basmati rice is a type of long-grain rice that is native to the Indian subcontinent. It is known for its distinctive aroma and flavor and has been an important part of Indian cuisine for centuries.

The history of basmati rice can be traced back to the Indian states of Punjab and Haryana, where it has been grown for centuries. The word “basmati” means “fragrant” in Hindi, and refers to the rice’s unique aroma derived from its high levels of natural oils and sugars.

Basmati rice was traditionally grown in the fertile soil of the Indo-Gangetic plain, which stretches across northern India and parts of Pakistan. It was an important part of the diet of the local people and was often used in religious ceremonies and festivals.

In the 19th and 20th centuries, basmati rice began to be exported to other parts of the world, where it became popular for its unique flavor and aroma. It is grown in several countries, including India, Pakistan, Nepal, and the United States.

Attempt to Patent Basmati Rice in the US

In 1997, RiceTec attempted to trademark and patent basmati rice in the United States. They claimed that they had developed a new variety of basmati rice genetically modified to have improved yield, disease resistance, and flavor.

However, their efforts were met with strong opposition from Indian farmers and advocacy groups, who argued that basmati rice was a traditional and culturally significant crop that a single company should not own. They also pointed out that RiceTec’s variety was not truly basmati, as it did not have the same aroma and flavor as traditional basmati rice.

In 2001, the United States Patent and Trademark Office ruled against RiceTec, stating that basmati rice was a “generic term” that could not be patented. The United States Court of Appeals upheld the decision in 2003.

Since then, attempts to patent and trademark basmati rice in the United States have been unsuccessful. Today, basmati rice continues to be grown and enjoyed around the world and remains an important part of India’s cultural and culinary heritage.

Brands of Basmati Rice in the US

Some popular brands of Basmati rice highly recommended by users include Tilda, Daawat, and Royal. Tilda is known for its long and slender grains that retain their shape and texture when cooked. Daawat is a well-known brand preferred for its delicious flavor, aroma, and perfect texture of cooked rice. Royal basmati rice is also a preferred brand, known for its nutty aroma and fluffy texture when cooked, making it perfect for traditional dishes like biryani and pulao. Other common brands include Kohinoor, India Gate, and Ashoka. These are considered high-quality and authentic brands of Basmati rice that are widely available and easily accessible in Indian grocery stores, some supermarkets, and even Costco.

Basmati Rice Recipe–Stovetop method

Ingredients

1 cup basmati rice
1.5 cups water
1 tsp ghee or oil
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp cumin seeds
1/2 tsp cardamom seeds
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp cloves
1/2 tsp bay leaves

Instructions

Rinse the basmati rice in a fine-mesh sieve under cold running water until the water runs clear.
Optional – Some cooks recommend soaking the basmati rice for 20 minutes and the draining to make the rice fluffier and less sticky.
In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, water, ghee or oil, salt, cumin seeds, cardamom seeds, cinnamon, cloves, and bay leaves.
Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water has been absorbed.
Remove the pan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 10 minutes to allow the rice to steam and fluff up.
Fluff the rice with a fork, then serve it immediately, garnished with chopped cilantro and accompanied by curry or other side dishes of your choice.

Basmati Rice Recipe Variations

You can:

Vary the flavor of the rice by using different spices, such as coriander seeds, fennel seeds, or black pepper.
Add a touch of sweetness to the rice by stirring in a little honey or coconut sugar.
Add a tanginess to the rice by stirring a little lemon juice or vinegar.
Add a touch of heat to the rice by stirring in a little cayenne pepper or red chili flakes.

Serves 6-8.

What to Serve with Basmati Rice

Basmati rice is a staple in Indian cuisine is an essential ingredient of pulaos and biryani and often complements a variety of flavorful curries, stews, and lentil dishes. One of the most popular dishes to pair with basmati rice is Chicken Tikka Masala, a creamy tomato-based curry made with tender chunks of marinated chicken. Another classic dish is Lamb Rogan Josh, a rich and flavorful curry made with tender chunks of lamb, yogurt, and a blend of spices. Vegetarian options like Chana Masala, a tangy and spicy curry made with chickpeas, or Dal Makhani, a creamy lentil curry made with black lentils and a blend of spices, are also delicious options to serve with Basmati rice. These rich and flavorful dishes perfectly complement the nutty and fragrant taste of Basmati rice, making it a perfect meal.

From Aloo Chaat to Dahi Vada: Exploring the Versatile World of Indian Chaat

January 18, 2023 by Staff Writer

Chaat is an essential part of Indian street food culture that has evolved over the years to cater to the diverse taste buds of different regions in India. It’s a dish loved by Indians and is a staple version in almost every state and district. When I visit Mumbai, it is the food I crave.

Chaat’s multifold layers of complex flavors – sweet, spicy, tangy, and savory – are packed in one dish, making it irresistible to taste. It consists of various ingredients, such as potatoes, chickpeas, and yogurt, which are mixed and topped with a variety of spicy and tangy sauces. Chaat is typically served as a street food and is often eaten as a snack or light meal.

The word “chaat” comes from the Hindi word “chatna,” which means “to lick.” This refers to how chaat is typically eaten, with the tangy and spicy sauces and toppings licked off the fingers. The origins of chaat can be traced back to the royal kitchen of Mughal emperor Shahjahan’s palace; today, Old Delhi’s chaat is famous for its unique taste and is a must-try for visitors.

Types of Chaat

Chaat is a versatile and flavorful snack, with many variations of the dish. Some common types of chaat include:

Aloo chaat: Aloo chaat is made with boiled and diced potatoes mixed with onions, tomatoes, and spices and topped with chutney, yogurt, and sev (a type of fried noodle).
Bhel puri: Bhel puri is a popular chaat dish that consists of puffed rice, vegetables, and fried snacks, which are mixed and topped with chutneys, sev, and other ingredients.
Dahi vada: Dahi vada is made by soaking lentil dumplings in yogurt and spices and then topping them with chutneys, sev, and other ingredients.
Papri chaat: Papri chaat is a layered chaat dish that consists of crisp fried dough wafers (papris) that are topped with boiled potatoes, chickpeas, yogurt, and chutneys.
Pani Puri: Pani Puri consists of small, crisp fried dough balls filled with potatoes, chickpeas, and spices and topped with flavored water or yogurt, chutneys, sev, and other ingredients. Pani Puri is often garnished with herbs and digestive spices,

Chaat, is one of my favorite Indian street foods and often an after-school snack to tide me over till India’s late dinners.

The Thali Experience: A Taste of India’s Diverse Flavors and Traditions

January 13, 2023 by Staff Writer

A Thali is a traditional Indian meal served on a round platter or tray, known as ‘that’ in Hindi, meaning plate. It typically comprises several dishes arranged on the plate to create a delicious meal. The thali is typically served on a large metal tray hosting 4-6 smaller metal bowls, each containing a different dish, such as vegetables and lentils to raita. The origin of thali is believed to be from South India, where a selection of different dishes was traditionally served on a banana leaf. Thalis are a staple in Indian restaurants and are also commonly served on special occasions, such as weddings or festivals.

Over time, the concept of thali evolved and adapted to different regions in India. Different states and communities began to develop their variations of the thali, using local ingredients and traditional cooking methods.

In the Western part of India, Gujarat and Maharashtra are known for their delicious thali meals, with a mix of sweet and spicy dishes. In Gujarat, the thali often includes a variety of vegetarian dishes such as dal, kadhi, bhakri, and shrikhand, while in Maharashtra, a variety of non-vegetarian dishes such as fish curry, chicken curry, and mutton are also commonly served.

In the Southern part of India, thalis are known for using a lot of rice, lentils, and curry-based dishes. The thali in this region includes dishes like sambar, rasam, and curd, as well as a variety of vegetable dishes, such as okra fry and drumstick sambar.

In the Northern part of India, thali meals typically include a variety of dishes made from wheat, such as roti, paratha, and naan. The thali in this region typically includes dishes such as dal makhani, paneer butter masala, and aloo gobi.

In Eastern India, thali meals are known for using fish and various vegetables. The thali in this region typically includes dishes like fish curry, dal, and a variety of vegetable dishes.

Thali meals vary in regions, reflecting India’s diverse cultural and culinary heritage. Today, the thali is a popular way of enjoying Indian food and a staple in Indian restaurants worldwide. The thali concept is limited to India and neighboring countries such as Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan.

The thali is not only a delicious way to enjoy Indian food but also an important part of India’s culinary heritage. It offers a glimpse into the country’s diverse regional cuisines, allowing diners to sample various dishes simultaneously. Whether you are a fan of Indian cuisine or trying it for the first time, a thali is a must-try experience.

Spice Up Your South Indian Dishes with Classic Coconut Chutney

January 11, 2023 by Staff Writer

Coconut chutney is a condiment popular in South Indian cuisine that is made with grated coconut, green chilies, and a blend of spices. It is typically served with rice dishes, idlis, dosas, and other South Indian snacks.

Here is a basic recipe for Indian coconut chutney:

Ingredients:

1 cup grated coconut
2 green chilies, finely chopped
1 tablespoon chana dal (split chickpeas)
1 tablespoon urad dal (split black lentils)
2 tablespoons roasted peanuts
1 teaspoon mustard seeds
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
5-6 curry leaves
1 tablespoon oil
Salt, to taste

Instructions:

In a pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the mustard, cumin, and curry leaves, and fry until the seeds start to splutter.
Add the chana dal and urad dal, and fry until golden brown.
Add the green chilies and fry for a minute.
Add the grated coconut and fry for 2-3 minutes until it is lightly browned.
Add the peanuts and fry for a minute.
Remove the pan from the heat and let the mixture cool.
Once the mixture is cooled, transfer it to a blender and blend until smooth, adding a little water if necessary.
Season with salt to taste.

This recipe yields about 1 cup of coconut chutney, which can be served as a condiment with rice dishes, idlis, dosas, and other South Indian snacks.

Here are a few variations on the basic recipe:

To make a mint coconut chutney, add a handful of fresh mint leaves before blending.
To make a coriander coconut chutney, add a handful of fresh coriander leaves before blending.
To make spicy coconut chutney, add an extra green chili or a pinch of cayenne pepper before blending.

Coconut chutney can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to a month. To serve simply thaw the chutney to room temperature and serve as a condiment with your favorite South Indian dishes.

Spice up Your Meal with Tandoori Pomfret

January 10, 2023 by Staff Writer

Are you ready for something truly unique and delicious? Then look no further than this recipe for Tandoori Pomfret! Our version uses a yogurt-based spice rub to infuse the fish with flavor using an oven or you could grill it The result? An unforgettable combination of tenderness, spiciness, and smokiness that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

Tandoori Pomfret Ingredients

1 pound pomfret fillets
1 cup plain yogurt
2 tablespoons tandoori masala
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon coriander
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garam masala
1 tablespoon ginger paste
1 tablespoon garlic paste
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Salt to taste

Tandoori Pomfret Instructions

Combine the yogurt, tandoori masala, cumin, coriander, paprika, garam masala, ginger paste, garlic paste, lemon juice, and salt in a large bowl.
Add the pomfret fillets to the bowl and coat them evenly with the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Place the pomfret fillets on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the fish is cooked and flakes easily with a fork.
Serve the tandoori pomfret with rice or naan bread and your favorite vegetables. Enjoy!

Can’t Find Pomfret? Here are Some Excellent Substitutes for This Prized Ingredient

January 7, 2023 by Staff Writer

Pomfret (also known as Butterfish) is a fish commonly found in India and Southeast Asia waters. It is a white, firm-fleshed fish with a delicate flavor prized in Indian cuisine. Several species of pomfret exist, including the black pomfret, silver or white pomfret, and golden pomfret. Silver and black pomfret are India’s two most popularly sold fish.

Pomfret has a flavor comparable to white, firm-fleshed fish like cod or halibut. These fish have a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a tender, flaky texture.

Pomfret is not as well known in the United States as in India and Southeast Asia. This fish can often be found in Asian fish markets serving Philippine, Chinese and Southeast Asian communities. If you cannot find pomfret, cod or halibut are good substitutes with a similar taste and texture.

Many delicious Indian recipes showcase pomfret’s delicate flavor and tender, flaky texture. Some of the best dishes to try include:

Tandoori Pomfret: This popular recipe involves marinating pomfret fillets in a blend of yogurt, spices, and aromatic herbs, then cooking them in a tandoor oven or an oven at high heat.
Pomfret Curry: Pomfret can also be used in traditional Indian fish curries, such as Goan or Kerala pomfret curry. These dishes are typically made with coconut milk and a blend of aromatic spices.
Pomfret Masala: For a quick and easy pomfret recipe, try pomfret masala. Simply coat the fish fillets in a mixture of spices and cook them in a pan or on the grill until they are tender and flaky.
Pomfret Kebabs: Pomfret can also be used to make delicious kebabs. Simply marinate the fish in a blend of spices, yogurt, and lemon juice, then skewer it and grill it until it is cooked.
Pomfret Fry: For a crispy and flavorful dish, try pomfret fry. Simply coat the fish in a mixture of flour, spices, and lemon juice, then shallow fry it until it is golden brown and crispy on the outside.

The Woman who Taught the West How to Cook Indian food – BBC feature on Madhur Jaffrey

January 2, 2023 by Staff Writer

Forty years ago, Madhur Jaffrey revolutionized how people thought about Indian cuisine with her ground-breaking cookery program, “Madhur Jaffrey’s Indian Cookery.” Not only was it the first mainstream series about Indian food to be broadcast in the UK and presented by an Indian, but it was also so popular that it caused shortages of ingredients in supermarkets across the UK, US, and Europe. Jaffrey, an Indian actress, turned food writer, introduced viewers to the flavors and techniques of Indian cooking, making it possible for people to enjoy the cuisine in the comfort of their homes.

And for South Asian viewers, Jaffrey’s show was a source of pride and representation. They appreciated seeing themselves and their culture depicted on television positively and authentically, and the impact of Jaffrey’s show extended beyond just the food – it also introduced a sense of modernity and style through her use of traditional Indian clothing.