Khopryachi Vadi

Take the humble dahi (curd), hang it till all the whey drains away, mix in sugar and elaichi (cardamom) powder and kesar (saffron), and behold, rich and luxurious Shrikhand is ready. The Historical Dictionary of Indian Food by KT Achaya says that the earliest record of shrikhand was in 500 BCE in Gujarat, though Maharashtrians claim this creamy sweet treat was their creation. Aromatic saffron and a touch of sweetness from sugar, topped with nuts and rose petals, make for a visually delightful dessert that’s even more delicious on the taste buds. Like all good things, be sure to wipe it clean off the plate with puri, roti, or finger, as the day may direct.

This three-ingredient delight is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth and those without. Dried apricots (khubani in Urdu) form the heart of this regal dessert, which is believed to have come to India with Alexander’s expedition to the subcontinent. Born in the royal kitchens of Hyderabad, Khubani Ka Mitha has a floral and warming flavour complementing the tangy-sweet fruit, with milk and sugar partnering up to create this apricot-infused allure. Make this your new perfect ending to a lavish feast or a humble, quiet evening. You’ll be a hit chef every time you prepare this luscious pudding that the blue bloods of India adored.

When someone first said ‘Moong Dal Halwa’ to me, I raised my eyebrows, mumbled “weirdo,” and swiftly scuttled away. When I finally tasted it, I groaned as I lamented all the wasted opportunities where I had shunned this slurp-worthy treat. Now, I scramble for it whenever I see the golden-hued, melt-in-the-mouth dessert. The only words that come out of my mouth are, “Please, Sir, may I have some more!” The humble moong whips itself into a superstar, its nutty flavours harmonising with the sweetness of milk, cream and sugar. Gracing festive occasions and special celebrations, this aromatic halwa is nothing short of a culinary masterpiece that captivates the palate.

Enjoy this sweetmeat that blends the earthy bitterness of fenugreek seeds with the rich sweetness of jaggery. Methi Ladoo is a healthy, energy-boosting snack and invites you to appreciate the nuanced beauty of Ayurvedic-inspired culinary creations. Roasted fenugreek seeds, ground to a fine powder, are kneaded into ladoos with desi ghee, jaggery, and a hint of cardamom. The result is a unique combination of bitter, sweet, and fragrant notes, balanced in flavours for pleasure and health. A delectable round of goodness that promises to entice your taste buds with every aromatic, nutty bite.