This not so usual dessert is also known as Benami Kheer. Benami in Hindi means no name or unknown. This dish is one the lost recipes of Indian cuisine. The history of this dish goes back to the Mughal era and said to be originated in the Royal kitchens.The taste of this kheer is amazing. The thickened milk, creaminess from the cooked garlic and hint of cardamom, rose water/ rose petals gives a delectable flavour. To add more richness almonds can be added and the garlic does not have any pungency and lightens the taste and texture of the kheer.
Suji halva is staple dessert in Indian homes; we make it on auspicious days, a quick dessert, as an offering in temples, on a rainy or a cold day or just without any reason as it’s the easiest and the quickest sweet treat!!
In this recipe I have made a twist to the traditional recipe, I added brewed filter coffee. The coffee gives the halva a distinct nuttiness and lifts up the caramelized taste of the halva.
Khichdi is one pot meal. It is very nutritious and wholesome meal. This is a gluten free, almost vegan (skip the ghee and add coconut oil), light on stomach; can be made in a jiff.On a regular day, for a change from regular dahl rice or curry and chapatti, split gram lentil with lots of aromatics and spices was the meal, accompanied by yoghurt, a dollop of ghee, pickle and lizzat papad, blissful and a complete meal. Few auspicious days also had special recipe for khichdi. So, for me khichdi always has been a special meal instead of a boring food for the sick.
I have a soft spot for panna cottas when it comes to making desserts as they are easy to make, can be made with different flavor profiles, mix and matched with other desserts. They are no fuss yet very appealing taste wise and look wise as well!
