Sugar and spice and all things nice,
The flavours of India in every bite.
Rasgulla, Gulab Jamun, Jalebi too,
Sweets so delicious, we can't have just a few.
Kulfi, Ladoo, Rasmalai divine,
Barfi, Kheer, a taste so fine.
Each sweet a treasure, a delight to find,
In every corner of India, a sweet to remind.
The richness of culture, the warmth of tradition,
Indian sweets, a sweet sensation.
Source:- Source:- https://www.finedininglovers.com/article/10-indian-sweets-diwali-explained-recipes
Sweets are an essential part of Indian culture, which is not unexpected given that the technology of refining sugar was established right here in India 8,000 years ago during the Indus Valley Civilisation. India has a rich and diverse culinary tradition and is well known for its traditional food, with sweets playing a central role in the country's food culture. From traditional delicacies like Rasgulla and Gulab jamun to more modern treats like Jalebi and Kulfi, sweets have a special place in the hearts of Indians. For many years, people all around the world have adored and consumed Indian sweets. Fans of Indian sweets can be found all over the world. It's incredible how a few simple ingredients can create something so wonderfully delicious!
One of the reasons for India's love affair with sweets is the country's long history of celebrating festivals and special occasions with food. From Diwali and Holi to weddings and religious ceremonies, sweets are an integral part of the celebrations. In many cases, traditional sweets are considered auspicious and are offered as prasad, or religious offerings.
Another reason for the popularity of sweets in India is the country's diverse regional cuisines. Each state and region have its own unique sweet dishes, many of which have been passed down through generations. For example, Rasgulla, a spongy ball made of chenna and soaked in syrup, originated in the state of Odisha and is now famous across the country. Similarly, gulab jamun, a deep-fried ball made of khoya and soaked in syrup, is a popular sweet in North India. The use of natural ingredients such as fruits, nuts, and milk also play a huge role in the popularity of sweets in India. Many traditional sweets are made with natural ingredients like mango, pistachio, and coconut, which give them a unique and delicious flavour. Milk based sweets like Kulfi, and Ras Malai are also very popular in India.
When it comes to Indian sweets, the most adored diamond-shaped treat, the notorious Kaju Katli, immediately comes to mind. The slice of creamy, nutty bliss with a layer of silver on top is both beautiful and tasty.
Who doesn't adore a whimsically formed dessert drenched in delicious delight? This is our most popular Jalebi for you. When coupled with cooled Rabri, the warm and juicy Jalebi is something to die for! Furthermore, the word 'Jalvallika' signifies 'full of water' in Sanskrit. You might be shocked to learn that in Northern India and Pakistan, Jalebi is used to treat headaches and colds when combined with warm milk. This combination makes you feel warm and is popular in the winter.
Source:- Nadir Hashmi, Flickr
Naan Khatai, which is derived from the Persian term 'Khatai,' which means biscuit, is heaven in a mouthful. It's a cardamom-flavoured baked biscuit with dried fruits and nuts. Naan Khatai is typically presented to guests as a welcome snack or as a tea-time delicacy. It delightfully crumbles and melts in your mouth, unleashing all of its exquisite flavours.
Gulab Jamun the most important part of any wedding, function or festival is certainly not Indian. Surprised? Here's some more! It originates from an Arabic dessert called Luqmat al-qaadhi, which translates to "The Judge's Bite" in Persian (modern-day Iran). This delicacy gained popularity during the Mughal era and was dubbed Gulab Jamun after combining the Persian terms gul (flower), ab (water), and jamun (Indian fruit with similar shape & size).
This delicious delicacy, whether it's the Motichoor Laddoo, the Boondi Laddoo, or the Besan Laddoo, is simple to make at home. Then there is the ‘Kada Prashad’ (halwa), which is a favourite of all and a bribe for the kids to visit the Gurudwara.
Source:- https://www.finedininglovers.com/article/10-indian-sweets-diwali-explained-recipes
A journey to Agra is never complete without the transparent and tasty Pethas, which can deliver rapid energy. These Pethas are delicious, but did you know they originated in the Mughal Empire's royal kitchen? Emperor Shah Jahan directed that a sweet be created as white as the Taj Mahal. And up to 500 people were hired to make Petha! Petha is also thought to be as old as the Taj Mahal, as it was created to supply extra energy to the 21,000 workers on the Taj Mahal. Petha is known as God's sweet because it is the purest sweetmeat ever manufactured in the world. Reason? It is simply made with pumpkin, sugar, and, of course, water!
While India has innumerable sweets and 'mithais' from 'Gulab Jamun', 'Khaja', Kheer', 'Payasam', all kinds of 'Laddoos', 'Shrikhand', 'Pedas', 'Barfis', 'Gujiyas', 'Balushahi', 'Mysore Pak', 'Chikki', 'Holige', 'Anarsas' and 'Bebinca', let me end with a 'mithai' that is extraordinary in texture, shape, method and taste — the 'Ghevar'. Rajasthani Ghevar is traditionally popular over most of North and West India. It's a honeycomb-shaped disc that takes time and skill to make. The batter for 'Ghevar' is comprised of flour and ghee and is deep fried in a mould or pan.
Source:- https://in.pinterest.com/pin/649151733781297009/
I could go on forever about Indian sweets since there are so many of them. Each state, area, and district has its own version of native sweets. Sweets are sold not only in stores but also on the streets. We eat sweets not only as dessert after a meal, but often before, during, and after meals. We consume sweets for breakfast, like as Gujarat's famous 'Fafda Jalebi' or Maharashtra's 'sweetsheera'. 'Gajar Ka Halwa' is a popular teatime treat, as are 'Besan Laddoos' throughout the day.
Overall, India's love affair with sweets is deeply rooted in the country's cultural and culinary heritage. From traditional delicacies to modern treats, sweets continue to play a central role in the country's food culture and will continue to be enjoyed for many years to come.
Article by:- Natasha
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