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Check out our first part of the Indo-Fusion cuisine blog here!  

Apart from savory main dishes, chefs are now also pushing the envelope with their sweet concoctions. Chef extraordinaires are putting their creativity to the test, experimenting with ingredients, marrying flavors and presenting fusion Indian desserts like never before.  As East meets West, fusion desserts have become the new chic. We present to you the show-stopper desserts and drinks, the ones that hold a sweet surprise and make you marvel at the creativity. The trend is timely, given the affinity and access to global tastes. Indo Fusions desserts such as Ras Malai Cake, Gulab Jamon Cheesecake, Parlee G Ice Cream Sandwiches,  Paan Shots,  and Turmeric Lattes are among some of the masterpieces.  ‍

Ras Malai Cake or Indian Tres leches‍

Let’s start off with everyone’s favorite dessert at weddings, Ras Malai. Ras Malai Cake was the most highly trending dessert last year. It is often compared to the Indian version of tres leche cake. Ras Malai Cake is basically a cardamom flavored cake, the layers of which are soaked with “ras” (thickened, sweetened milk infused with cardamom and saffron). It is then frosted with “ras” flavored whipped cream, sprinkled with nuts, and dried rose petals. Baking this cake alone leaves the kitchen brimming with exotic flavors!  

Gulab Jamun Cheesecake‍

Gulab Jamuns are the most liked mithai in the mithai box. They have fans all over the world, but a Gulab Jamun Cheesecake beats all records. This spongy cake is soaked in sugary rose petals, cardamom infused syrup, and layered with sliced jamuns. Cheesecakes are classic yet elegant desserts, and adding gulab jamuns to it is the cherry on top.  

Parle-G Ice Cream Sandwiches‍

Everyone loves Parle-G biscuits with their evening chai. Now you can try them out with your favorite ice cream as well! Spread your choice of fruit flavored jam on one side of each biscuit. Top of the jam with a scoop of any flavored heavenly ice cream, and join the biscuits together. To make things even more interesting, roll the ice cream sandwich in crushed nuts and enjoy.  

Paan Shots‍

You have most probably seen elders in your family eating paan. Made from betel leaves and areca nuts, paan is widely consumed throughout southeast Asia. A paan shot is a mouthwatering combination of paan and rose gulkand with spices and ice cream. It melts in your mouth and tickles your taste buds! In a blender,  blend betel leaves, paan masala, gulkand (a rose paste), fennel seeds, and ice cream. Garnish with pistachios and refrigerate for an hour before serving.  

Turmeric Latte‍

Also known as Golden Milk or Haldi Dhood, a Turmeric Latte is a warm drink made from steaming milk with aromatic turmeric powder and spices. It is a perfect alternative to coffee, and actually has many magical prolonging life benefits.  To create this drink, blend your choice of milk, turmeric powder, cinnamon powder, a pinch of black pepper, and ginger powder in a blender. Then heat it in a small saucepan until hot, and serve.  Can’t wait to make Turmeric Latte? Check out our delicious full recipe here.

Above listed are some of the top trendiest desserts found in upscale Indo-fusion restaurants. Other famous contenders include: Gajar Ka halwa rolls, Dirty Masala chai affogato, Masala chai gelato, Kashmiri chai cupcakes, and Masala chai macarons. Try out the recipes for yourself or at a restaurant near you, and let us know what you think of these delectable desserts gaining a cult following everywhere.

Just like the high fashion design industry where designers take the next big step and come up with avant-garde fashion, it has become popular in many parts of the United States for big name chefs to experiment with flavors and combine the various cuisines of different Asian countries. 

In an attempt to offer the next best food item and to be more innovative, chefs across the globe are taking inspiration from Indian cuisine and are creating Indo-fusion recipes. Having a complete Indo-Fusion menu has become a trend for many upscale restaurants in big metropolitan cities like Chicago, New York, Los Angeles, and Houston. 

So what are fusion recipes? It is the process of mixing and matching various ingredients from different flavors and cultures to create new and unconventional recipes. In short, it is a mix and match of different cuisines. We all need variety, and fusion is able to provide us with the wide array of tastes we like to have in our food. Fusion recipes provide a modern twist to classic and popular dishes from Indian, Italian, Chinese, and American cuisines by blending them with each other.

Without further ado, let's explore the world of Indo-Fusion dishes:

Indo-Mexican Fusion Appetizers/ Small Plates

• Mexican samosas 
• Chicken Tikka Nachos
• Tandoori Chicken Quesadillas
• Cholay Salsa (see recipe below)
• Fried Paneer Tacos 

Mexican cuisine includes nachos, guacamole, tacos, quesadillas, and lots of salsa. Combining those flavors with those of paneer, tandoori chicken, and samosas makes for a delicious union exploding with spices and flavor. A delicious example includes Mexican samosas, which are filled with ground beef, black beans, corn, onions, jalapenos, and cilantro rather than just spiced potatoes. They are served with guacamole chutney instead of mint chutney. Another example would be chicken tikka nachos, which are made with tasty shredded chicken tikka, plenty of cheese, pico de gallo, creamy cooling yogurt sauce, and a spicy red chili sauce! An alternative option is making tandoori chicken quesadillas by adding cumin powder, coriander powder, garam masala, and chat masala to make the chicken filling for the tortillas. Pair up the quesadillas with cholay salsa, a spin-off of black bean salsa, where chickpeas and spices such as chat masala and cumin powder are used instead of black beans to make the perfect Indo-Mexican dip. And lastly, a vegetarian friendly recipe includes paneer tacos, in which paneer is seasoned and fried to be used as filling in place of chicken or ground beef. 

Indo-Italian Fusion Main Dishes

• Naan Pizza (chicken tikka pizza, saag paneer pizza)
• Penne Makhni
• Hariyali Spaghetti

Italian cuisine is all about raviolis, lasagna, pizza, and spaghetti known for bursting with paramount flavors of basil, oregano, tomatoes, and cheese. Combining these tastes with tandoori masala, red chili powder, saag, cumin powder, and ginger-garlic paste creates a divine concoction, perfect for impressing your guests. Adding toppings such as tandoori chicken, saag paneer, or gyros to the fundamental base of pizza dough, tomato sauce, and cheese is the perfect blend of Indian and Italian. Another twist on traditional pizza is using naan bread as a base instead of pizza crust. It is fast and easy, not to mention still delicious. A third innovative creation is saag paneer pizza, which uses traditional pizza dough and includes adding a sauté of frozen spinach with onion, garlic, ginger, and garam masala, and heavy cream at the end to hold everything together. In addition, penne, pasta, and spaghetti can have an Indian spin of their own. For example, instead of tomato or alfredo sauce, Penne Makhni uses a cream base mixed with red chili powder, tomatoes, ginger garlic paste, garam masala, and fenugreek leaves. Similarly, Hairyali Spaghetti consists of a green chutney base. 

Indo-American Cuisine 

• Masala Mashed Potatoes (see recipe below)
• Masala Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Popular American comfort food includes grilled cheese sandwiches and mashed potatoes. Additional ingredients like red chilis, garlic paste, turmeric powder, and cumin seeds to mashed potatoes and sandwiches can make these foods more enjoyable!

Now that we have introduced you to the world of fusion recipes, which of these recipes is more to your liking? Let us know in the comment section, and stay tuned for the second part of this Indo-Fusion Blog which includes mouthwatering out-of-the box desserts that you’ve probably never heard of before. 

Check out our versions of the Indo fusion dishes for your next soiree.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5DaD9_d-F1w

Quick & Easy Cholsay Salsa Recipe

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XABGLr8t-x0&t

Quick & Easy Masala Mashed Potatoes Recipe

With our busy lives, we always look for ways to cook more quickly and efficiently. In trying to spend less time in the kitchen and more time with our loved ones, here is a list of three time saving kitchen appliances that can help you prepare tasty and healthy Indian meals in no time.‍

Hello Instant Pot, Good Bye Pressure Cooker

If you cook Indian food often, then chances are you’re already familiar with using a pressure cooker. However, a pressure cooker needs to be monitored and is often subject to causing messes, explosions, and even burns or other injuries. An instant pot, on the other hand, is designed with safety mechanisms for safer usage because the heat source is electric. It does not require a gas or a stove, and consumes 70% less energy while still efficiently preserving nutrients in foods. An instant pot is also better than a pressure cooker because it is faster and actually does the job in half the time-- not to mention it’s a breeze to clean up. 

You’ll be able to make more lunches and dinners in a hurry, since it is tailored to replace most kitchen appliances including a steamer, rice cooker, food warmer, yogurt maker, sautéing vessel, and so much more, speeding up the cooking time by 2 to 6 times. In addition, instant pots make food more flavorful; spices seem to infuse better in a closed heated pot than they do when cooking on a stove top. And last but definitely not least, instant pots do a much better job at containing smells. Although the aroma of ginger, garlic, onion, and spices smell delicious, no one necessarily wants the smell on their clothes. 

What Can I Make In An Instant Pot?

‍Here are some recipes to try out in an instant pot: dal tadka, basmati rice, baigan ka bhurta, palak paneer, dhokla, idli, sambar, and more. The list is endless. You can find a recipe for instant dal tadka at the end. 

Rotimatic - An Easier Way to Make Fresh Rotis

‍Who doesn't love homemade rotis? Yet, sweating and toiling in the kitchen to make dough balls and puff them manually is not always feasible. A rotimatic is a robotic Indian flat bread maker. It makes round rotis (whole wheat, gluten free, your choice), and can also make pizza crusts and naans. A rotimatic mirrors human judgment and automatically measures to adjust the proportion of flour and water in real-time, so that every dough ball is consistently kneaded, evenly thin and round. It then roasts each roti until puffed.

What Can I Make In a Rotimatic?

Rotimatics can also make pooris, aloo parathas, methi parathas, onion parathas, gobi parathas, and multigrain parathas with multigrain atta. Fresh rotis can be a great addition to your instant pot recipes.

Air Fryers - Less Oil, Less Calories

‍Along with the instant pot and rotimatic, another kitchen appliance gaining a lot of attention and popularity recently is the air fryer. An air fryer is an appliance that uses hot air and a bit of oil to "fry" food. Air fryers require less oil than traditional fried foods, making them generally healthier than their oil-immersed counterparts. Using an air fryer to cook can cut calories and fat content. With a fraction of the oil, cooking experts say it can "fry" certain foods as well as a deep-fryer. Not to mention, just one deep-frying session can leave your place smelling and feeling as greasy as a fast food kitchen. 

What Can I Make In An Air Fryer?

‍Here are a few delicious Indian snacks and meals you can cook up in an air fryer, while using less oil and without compensating on taste: french fries, fried chicken, tandoori aloo tikka, tandoori paneer naan pizza, samosas, vada pav, charga, tandoori aloo gobi, and many more. As stated before, the possibilities are endless. 

Chances are you may have at least one of these kitchen appliances at home. If not, you should definitely consider buying them because we have a delicious new recipe for you to try down below!

Instant Dal Tadka:

‍Ingredients Needed:

• 1 tbsp of oil
• 1 tbsp of Cumin seeds
• ½ Onion finely chopped 
• 6 Curry leaves
• ¼ tbsp Asafoetida
• 1 /4 tsp Turmeric powder
• ½ tsp Coriander powder
• ½ tsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 3 cloves of Garlic
• 1 cup of Toor dal
• 3 cups of Water 

Instructions:

1. Start the instant pot in sauté mode and heat the oil in it. Add cumin seeds, green chili, curry leaves, garlic and asafoetida.
2. After the garlic turns light brown, add the chopped onions and cook for 2 minutes until the onions turn golden brown.
3. Add tomatoes, turmeric powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, and salt and cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Add the washed toor dal and water. Stir it all up. 
5. Change the instant pot setting to manual or pressure cook mode at high pressure for 5 mins. After the instant pot beeps, let the pressure release for 5 minutes.
6. Garnish with cilantro and additional garam masala.
7. IP Instant Daal Tadka is now ready!

In India, festivals are always celebrated with lights and colors, and Christmas is no exception. Unlike some occasions like Thanksgiving and Halloween, which India learned to celebrate more recently, the history of Christmas celebrations in India is perhaps as old as the arrival of Christianity. Granted that Hinduism is the predominant religion of India, the country also has a fairly large population of Christians.

There are over 25 million Christians in India. One of the largest Indian Christian communities resides in a big city like Mumbai. Additionally, many of the Christians live in or have roots in Goa, India's smallest state located on the west. The states of Manipur, Meghalaya, Nagaland, and Mizoram have substantial populations of Christians as well.

‍Mango Christmas Tree and Indian Santa Claus:

‍Like any other major holiday in India, Christmas is also celebrated with multitudes of festivities. Santa Claus, also known as “Christmas Baba, Christmas Tatha, Natal Bua, or Christmas Papa,” brings presents to children. Churches are decorated with Poinsettia flowers and candles. Similarly, people decorate their homes with mango leaves, star shaped lanterns, and manger scenes. They also decorate mango and banana trees instead of traditional Christmas trees to set the festive mood. In Goa, which follows lots of western customs because of its historical connections with Portugal, people like to go caroling around their neighborhoods. They also hang up giant star shaped paper lanterns between their houses, so that the stars float above as people walk down the streets. Mainly, Christmas festivities begin the night before the 25th as families attend Christmas Eve Midnight Mass together. This is followed by a massive feast.

‍Christmas Fruitcake and Consuadas:

‍At the feast, popular Christmas entrees include roast turkey or chicken. Moreover, Gujiya, which is a Holi dish, is also made for Christmas. There are two kinds – keema gujiya and sweet gujiya. In Meghalaya- doh jem (a meat preparation), putharo (steamed rice cakes), jadoh (a rice and meat preparation), and doh sniang nei-iong (a pork and sesame preparation) are notably favorites.

Christmas in India brings also brings with it a variety of desserts as well. Christmas sweets — mainly originating from Goa and adapted in the rest of the country — are traditionally called “kuswar.” They include neureos (small pastries which are stuffed with dry fruit and coconut and fried), dodol (toffee that has coconut and cashew in it), kidiyo (deep-fried curly dough balls dusted in powdered sugar), and sweet dumplings called newrio (stuffed with palm sugar, sweet grated coconut, and sesame seeds). These delicious delicacies are often part of a 'consuada'--a Portguese word for Christmas feast--where people make sweets before Christmas and share them with their family, friends, and neighbors. Desserts also range from rose cookies to deeply delicious multi-layered Christmas fruitcakes. These traditional dense Christmas fruitcakes are an elaborate, labour-intensive process made with coconut milk and flour. Savoury banana chips, crisp chaklis (a round, deep-fried savoury made with lentils), and cardamom and cashew macaroons round up a versatile collection of Christmas goodies.

Many American Indians in the United States celebrate the holiday differently than they would in India. However, regardless of where you are, Christmas is a time for family, friends, and food. And one cannot ask for anything more than to be surrounded by tradition, love, and happiness during this most joyous of seasons.

The frenzy of Thanksgiving is approaching fast! It is one of the many anticipated holidays as it brings families and friends from all around the country to break bread together. It also starts the official countdown to Christmas and New Year. Along with community building and a big turkey dinner, Thanksgiving is everyone's favorite excuse to go on an extreme shopping spree with Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales. Many South Asian families, especially in the States, save up money and gear up for huge savings as they wait to purchase big items during this weekend. These shopping marketing tactics have started surfacing in South Asian countries such as India and Pakistan as well with different names, like “White Friday” or “Blessed Friday”.

Apart from this, Thanksgiving is every foodie’s favorite holiday as they are able to satisfy their year long cravings in one sitting. One of the best parts about being South Asian is being able to add a “desi” touch to Western foods. Since turkey is known to be a bit bland, many people add Indian spices to their turkeys to make it more flavorful, such as Tandoori Turkeys, while others opt out of turkey to make whole tandoori chickens instead. Some even try cooking up new dishes like turkey curry (see recipe below)  and pumpkin and chickpea curry. Additionally, people further “desi-fy” their Thanksgiving feasts by concocting sides like masala mashed potatoes or sweet and sour tomato chutney, instead of the original basic mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce. Check out our new masala mashed potato recipe below. It is guaranteed to be a hit on your Thanksgiving dinner table! Other sides include, caramelized cumin-roasted carrots, tamarind gravy, and Indian-styled stuffed mushrooms. Along with savory entrees, many people deck out their tables with scrumptious desi desserts like pumpkin halwa, cardamom custard, and buttermilk-cardamom pie. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XABGLr8t-x0&t‍

Quick and Easy Masala Mashed Potatoes Video Recipe

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=14a6h5_H7Vk

‍Quick and Easy Turkey Curry Video Recipe

In all the excitement of food, let’s not forget about one of the main sentiments that comes with Thanksgiving, giving thanks. There is always something to be thankful for: the family and friends that make up our support system, good health, the food on our table, a roof over our head, and even the internet that allows us to read this blog at this current moment. In this fast-paced digital culture that can leave us mentally exhausted and disconnected with nature, personal relationships, and our inner selves, practicing gratitude has become more important than ever for our well being. In the wise words of internationally-recognized inspirational speaker Eleanor Brown, “you only have one life to live. Make sure it’s yours.” We’ll never stop wanting more and comparing our lives to others, but if we don’t learn to be grateful for what we have, we’ll never be satisfied. Expressing gratitude goes much deeper than giving and receiving gifts and compliments. It is a practice of being accepting of our changing world, and for being grateful for belonging in it. Practicing gratitude can further strengthen our immune system, help us feel less lonely, and even encourage us to find compassion and generosity toward others. It is the key to happiness and positivity.  

With that said, the Patel Brothers would like to thank each and every one of you for giving us the opportunity to serve you. We wish you and your families a Happy Thanksgiving! 

One of the most awaited Hindu holidays is Diwali. It is a festival of lights and a festival of flavors. See below, our exquisite quick recipe for everyone’s favorite mithai.  In the Gregorian calendar, the festival generally falls between mid-October and mid-November. Diwali signifies the spiritual "victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance." Read more about “Diwali, Dharma, and Resistance” here.

Giving Back:‍

During Diwali, people are strongly encouraged to give back to the community. There are many different non profit organizations that do charity work, especially during Diwali. They include centers for the deaf, handmade cards made by underprivileged children whose proceeds go towards their education, organizations working for the betterment of orphans, and centers providing education for children from low-income families.‍

Preparing for Diwali:‍

As Diwali begins to approach, people start preparing for it in advance by cleaning, renovating, and decorating their homes, temples, and workplaces. Paper lampshades are a novel oriental way of decorating on Diwali. Other decorations include creative and colorful rangolis, diwali torans, diyas, and flowers. During this festive celebration, people light up the interior and exterior of their homes with oil lamps and candles because it is believed that the Goddess Lakshmi graces those homes which are brightly illuminated on Diwali with wealth and prosperity. Additionally, people wear their finest clothes and offer puja to Lakshmi, the goddess of prosperity and wealth, light fireworks, and take part in big family feasts, where mithai (sweets) and gifts are given.

Heavenly Diwali Foods:‍

Lets face it, food is the most important any celebration. Some of the mouth watering mithai include Kaju Katli, Barfi, Motichoor, Besan and Coconut Ladoos, Rasgullas, Suji Halwa, Jalebi and Gulab Jamun.  Some of the succulent savory snacks and entrees include samosas, aloo tikkis, dahi vadas, pooris, dal maharani, and khasta aloo. Samosas are small pockets of pastry, usually shaped into a triangle, stuffed with minced meat, peas, lentils and other vegetables. Aloo tikkis are made with potatoes that are shredded and formed into small patties before being fried. They are served hot with mint or tamarind chutney. These aloo tikki Diwali snacks can also be served as a side to a main meal. Also a popular dish, Dahi Vaadas are prepared by soaking fitters made from lentil and chickpea flour in yogurt (dahi), topped with cilantro, chili powder, crushed black pepper, chaat masala, cumin, green chilis, or boondi. Furthermore, pooris are fried soft round breads and can be eaten with foods like dal maharani- a combination of three different dals mixed, or khasta aloo- curried potatoes. Other entrees include paneer tikkas, saag, navratan korma, malai wali ki sabzi kofta, and nariyal aur badam wale chawal. 

Diwali is a good time to indulge in delicious foods and sweets without feeling guilty.  With that being said, looking for an easy mithai recipe to wow your guests at your next Diwali party? We got you covered with this easy fingerlicking coconut Ladoo recipe that will leave your guests wondering about it for days.

Crazy for Coconut Ladoos:

Ingredients:
•  1 and ½  cups of desiccated coconut
•  1(14 ounces) can of condensed milk  
•  ½  cup of chopped pistachios
•  1 tsp of cardamom powder
•  4tsp of desiccated coconut for garnishing
•  1 tsp of oil
•  Cupcake liners (optional)

Directions:
1)  In a wide pan on low heat, add the desiccated coconut milk and keep stirring.
2)  Add cardamom powder, condensed milk, and chopped pistachios and keep stirring until the mixture begins to come together.
3)  Add the mixture into a bowl and let it cool
4)  Grease your hands with oil and take small portions of the mixture and roll them into bite size ladoos.
5)  Roll the ladoos in coconut and place them into cupcake liners.
6)  Refrigerate in an airtight container until it’s ready to be served.

Searching for some fun fall recipes to kick off the autumn season? Scroll to the bottom for a Pumpkin Spice Lassi and Cranberry Chutney recipe that will make you fall in love. 

You know fall is near when your favorite cafes start carrying pumpkin spice lattes, and stores are filled with orange and yellow decor items. Weather over the United States this year has been much warmer than before; therefore, most people are anticipating the cooler, crisper, and fresher air autumn brings along. Along with the fluctuation in the weather, autumn brings along with it changes in the colors of leaves, cute sweaters, boots, scarves, and the first day of school! In a way, it is an opportunity for a  fresh start before the new year.

The autumn season welcomes a lot of different things: from new holidays to certain fruits and recipes. For example, Onam is an annual Harvest festival that originated in the state of Kerala in India and falls around August–September.  This year, Malayalis around the world celebrated from September 1st to September 13th, making it an almost “pre-fall” festival. Some of the tasty delicacies consumed during Onam include: upperi or banana chips, kaalan, pulissery, and naranga curry.

Additionally, Navratri, another Hindu festival observed for different reasons spans over nine nights every year in the fall. Navratri is also known as Ma Durga Puja and is a vital festival held in honor of the divine feminine. It chiefly celebrates the victory of good over evil wherein Devi Durga defeats and overpowers the buffalo demon in the form of Mahishasura. A few of the delicious foods eaten during Navratri include: sabudana khichdi, aloo ki kadhi, chawal ka dhokla, and singhare atte ka halwa. Interestingly enough, there are nine colors of Navratri to symbolize one color for each day, and they happen to concur with the shades of the autumn season: red, orange, yellow, purple, and blue. 

Apart from religious holidays, fall also welcomes seasonal fruits like pumpkins, apricots, cranberries, and apples, along with new pastimes. Family friendly activities like drinking warm mugs of apple cider, apple picking, picking out the perfect pumpkin, leaf leaping, baking pies, and trying out new foods and recipes are the highlight of September through December. Nevertheless, allow us to introduce to you two new fall recipes that blend the autumn season with the desi culture!

Pumpkin spice latte who? Introducing the pumpkin spice lassi!

Ingredients:

‍• 2 cups peeled pumpkin pieces, chopped into 1” cubes
• 1 cup Whole Milk
• 1 cup Plain Yogurt
• ½ cup Sugar
• 1 cup Cold Water
• ¼ tsp Cinnamon
• Oil for frying

Instructions:

‍1. In a medium pan, heat oil, and add chopped pumpkin and whole milk. Cook until slightly soft.
2. Let the mixture simmer until thickened.  
3. In a blender, add the pumpkin mixture, plain yogurt, white sugar, and cinnamon and blend for one minute.
4. Pour cold water slowly into the blended mixture and blend again until it reaches the desired consistency.
5. Ice is optional.
6. Enjoy!

A cranberry chutney you’ll love berry much!

Ingredients:

‍• 12 oz bag fresh whole cranberries
• 4 oz dried candied mango (small diced)
• Lemon zest (1 lemon)
• Orange zest (1 orange)
• 1 cup fresh orange juice
• ¼ cup lemon juice
• ⅓ cup water
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 star anise
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 tsp ginger paste
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 2 diced green chilies
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

‍1. Mix all the ingredients except cranberries in large pot on medium heat. Bring to a boil.
2. Add cranberries to the boiling sauce, reduce heat to medium-low, and cook until all cranberries burst.
3. Remove from heat and cool completely. Remove cinnamon stick and star anise.
4. The chutney is now ready!

Where in the world would you find two countries with so many similarities? Colorful and vibrant are the words that come to mind when speaking about both the Indian and Pakistani culture and lifestyle. Hindi, Urdu, Punjabi, and Gujurati are the four major high-spirited languages spoken by a multitude of people from both countries. In fact, most Bollywood movies and songs are filmed in the Hindi/ Urdu language. This commonality applies to other performing arts as well. Bhangra, a high-energy, Punjabi style of dance music performed at weddings and parties is common in both India and Pakistan. When you think of Punjabis, you think of bhangra--and vice versa. Speaking of music, Qawwali, a form of Sufi Islamic music performed at shrines and dargahs is also notably popular throughout South Asia.

Similarly, both countries share an array of similarities in regards to the customs and traditions that characterize a “desi” wedding. Unlike Western weddings, South Asian marriages are a week-long affair, including multiple events such as: a haldi/mayoun, followed by a sangeet/mehendi, concluding with a grand wedding reception. Brides tend to steer away from dressing in lighter colors, and strongly prefer wearing intricately designed red or maroon outfits, accompanied by dramatic hair and makeup, and gold jewelry. In both cultures, you will find the hands of the bride and her closest family members decorated with ornate henna designs.

Although the music, dancing, and newly married couple are important aspects of a wedding, the best part about a desi wedding, as we all know, is the food. Ranging from delicious appetizers such as pakoras, aloo tikkis, chaat, and pani poori, to entrees like palak paneer, pilau, bhindi masala, and curry, Indian and Pakistani food is sure to make your mouth water. Pakistani weddings tend to focus on a mix of meat and vegetarian foods like korma, biryani, chana masala, and barbecue items; whereas, the majority of Indian weddings include vegetarian and vegan items like daal makhani, paneer tikka, and gobi manchurian. Especially important in both cultures is ending the meal with heavenly desserts including gulab jamun, ladoos, gajar ka halwa, mango kulfi, and kheer.

Moreover, like the love of football stands strong in America, in both South Asian countries you will find that the love and passion for the cricket sport encompasses all crowds in every household. The love of this sport, and values such as family and education keep loved ones close. Unlike other cultures, it is more common--and actually encouraged--that children live with their parents until they are married, and are raised to take care of their parents in their old-age. Additionally, since poverty is more pervasive among the populations in both countries, the importance of education is heightened among children early on as a path to breaking that cycle.

Certainly both countries share vital features of their cultures with each other, but the similarities do not stop there. They both also share their borders with the Arabian Sea and the village of Wagah. Flag lowering ceremonies at the Wagah-Attari border end in handshakes of good faith between the head guards of each nation, symbolizing brotherhood. In addition, both India and Pakistan have stunning, yet indistinguishable landscapes. From Stok Range, Nubra Valley, and the Central Highlands in India, to Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Naltar Valley in Pakistan, thousands of tourists visit these breathtaking sceneries every year. Speaking of tourism, some of the must-see landmarks in India include: the Taj Mahal, Charminar, and the India Gate; whereas in Pakistan, similar bucket list spots are the Badshahi Masjid, Minar-e-Pakistan, and Shalimar Garden.

Both India and Pakistan are united in their aspects of culture, traditions, values, and beauty. To this day, people residing in Pakistan and India share a special bond as their forefathers are linked to one another. From similarities in languages, to foods, to landscapes, man-made lines cannot change common ancestry, and the two young nations can be considered family. As Lailah Gifty Akita said: “There is beauty and power in unity. We must be united in heart and mind. One world, one people”.

Let’s face it, when you live in a desi household, you only take a day off of school when you are in a dire emergency. Growing up, Eid always held a special place in my heart as it meant taking a day off of school without having to explain myself. Eid ul-Fitr, which translates to the "Festival of the Breaking of the Fast", marks an end to the holy month of Ramadan.Muslims around the world look forward to Eid preparations months in advance. They make sure to buy vibrant clothes that follow the latest fashion trends, with matching bangles, jewelry, and sandals. The night before Eid, also known as “Chand Raat”, streets in South Asian communities are usually bustling with last-minute shoppers as they are during Christmas Eve. During this time, people take strolls down these streets to get last minute accessories and decorate their hands with intricate henna patterns. They make sure to get some mango kulfi, samosas, and papri chaat along the way while hearing exuberant greetings of “Chand Raat Mubarak!”

On Eid Morning, children and adults alike wake up super early and get dressed in their shiny and colorful outfits with matching jewelry, and go for Eid prayer. Personally, my favorite part is reuniting with acquaintances. The energy is amazing. Everyone gathers in one happy place and expresses their cheeriness through a unique three-hug embrace. After the Eid prayer, people come home to Eid presents, halwa puri breakfast, and an Eid staple dessert: ‘Sheer Khorma’. After feasting, they go house hopping to visit family and friends. Post-food-coma, a nap would be necessary before getting re-dressed in a second new outfit for an evening Eid dinner with extended family. It is such a pleasant feeling to catch up with relatives, old and young, and reunite during this special holiday. During dessert and chai, the kids receive Eid presents from the elders, and parents share stories from their own childhood and how they celebrated Eid in their home country. In some cases, these Eid celebrations extend on to the weekends as well. 

Each community has its own unique way of celebrating Eid, some folks travel to their home countries to be with their families and others celebrate locally by hosting potluck lunches and dinners. There are many Eid festivals and celebrations that people around the U.S. participate in with merriment. Many mosques and Muslim communities hold Eid carnivals, halal food festivals, parades, workshops, and more. They make a point to reach out to be inclusive of Muslims new and old, as well as individuals of other faiths. 

After a month of abstaining from basic human necessities, Eid-ul-fitr is a celebration that teaches people to be grateful for their blessings, and provides gratitude for the everyday convenience of life including a meal whenever you want it, water that comes out of a wall from your house, and the difficulties those that don't have this convenience face. It is a reminder that not everyone has the choice to eat, drink, and spend time with family whenever they wish. Eid-ul-fitr is a segway into being mindful of what Ramadan has taught people going forward in their lives: to forgive and forget, to eat moderately, and to continue to abstain from vices for a clean soul for the rest of the year. 

During this time, Muslims are also strongly encouraged to reach out to those who are less fortunate and continue to give to charity; Mosques hold clothing and toy drives to be donated to children and families on this holiday. Eid-ul-fitr is a time of much merriment as Muslims observe the end of Ramadan in high spirits, whilst also keeping the less fortunate in mind.

The Fourth of July is a celebration of the birth of the United States. However, it is also a celebration of a country that defines itself by its incorporation of people from around the world through immigration. This day holds a special meaning for immigrants as they gather to celebrate what it means for them to be American and ethnic, as they recognize the blessings and freedom they have received in the U.S. after overcoming personal struggles. 

Notably, the founding fathers of the United States understood the importance of immigration to a healthy and booming nation. Since then, America has become home to millions of immigrants who share rights and blessings to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. The United States is the most sought out country for people migrating in search of a better life and a broader scope of opportunities. Many immigrants come from countries where they lack what we consider basic human rights.  Necessities such as education, freedom of thought and expression, workers’ rights, and the power to vote are not guaranteed. For those immigrants, the United States represents a haven where they can be free to pursue unlimited opportunities, live to their fullest potential, and contribute to a market economy. 

As a result, much of America has experienced immigrant work ethic via cab drivers, janitors, housekeepers, motel owners, gas station owners, and the many non-Native soldiers in the U.S. military. All have long been an integral part of the American workforce. According to a study done by Forbes in 2018, 55% of America's billion dollar start-up companies are founded by immigrants. These start-up companies are based in Silicon Valley, with California being the headquarters for 33 of the 50. Moreover, the research also showed that 82% of companies had at least one immigrant who had served as a CEO, chief technology officer, or vice president responsible for major corporate decisions, managing the overall operations, and overseeing company growth. Furthermore, many of America’s top companies such as Google, Microsoft, Adobe, and Amazon are run by immigrants or children of immigrants who emerged as engineers, scientists, and innovators. Immigrants have also positively contributed to the fashion industry with top-end designers such as Sachin & Babi, Naeem Khan, and Prabal Gurung catering to top U.S politicians and Hollywood celebrities. Consequently, immigrants from all skill sets have been a substantial factor in contributing to the economy of the United States’.  

Although many immigrants initially faced additional hardships when they migrated to the United States, namely: a culture shock, difficulty learning and speaking English, raising their children in a new environment, securing work, and accessing services and transportation, they persisted and gradually adapted to the American culture while holding on to their own roots. They introduced diversity to America by sharing their food, music, clothing, and culture. In return, America offered them a home to build their own communities. Thus, in every major city, you can find a neighborhood of a population of people from a distinct origin such as a Chinatown, Greek Town, Little Italy, and a Little India.  

The Fourth of July is a celebration of this diversity, inclusion, and reminder that not everyone is able to enjoy the same freedom and opportunity that America offers. One is likely to find immigrants in all corners of the U.S.--whether it is in a small town like Tyler, Texas or a metropolitan city like San Francisco, California. America is responsible for cultivating the new ideas, skills, and entrepreneurial spirits these immigrants bring with them, without diminishing the freedom of those who already live here. The United States has and always will be a melting pot and a nation built on immigrants, and on the Fourth of July, America celebrates them and its freedom.

Ever wonder why it is called “Ramadan”? The term Ramadan comes from the word “ramad” which means burning. According to Muslim scholars, this holy month was named Ramadan because fasting during it burns the sins of the practicing person, bringing her or him closer to God. During this month, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset, abstaining from food, water, and sexual intercourse from sunup to sundown.

Ramadan commemorates the month in which Muslims believe Muhammad received the initial revelations that today make up the Qur'an. It falls upon a different Gregorian date every year based on moon sightings. Ramadan is a time of spiritual cleansing for many Muslims, and it is encouraged to prepare in advance for it. Burying hatchets, reflecting upon the Qur’an, decluttering your home, giving to charity, abstaining from vices (such as smoking, drinking, and excessive caffeine consumption), stocking up on pantry items in bulk, eating moderately, and going on a social media detox are some of the things people do to prepare. To get young children into the Ramadan spirit, parents decorate their homes and plan a fun 30-day countdown calendar to encourage kids to do good deeds, and learn about the significance of the month.

Ramadan is a perfect time for families to bond over prayer and prepare meals to break bread during suhoor, the pre-dawn meal, and iftar, the meal eaten at sunset. This is also a great opportunity for people to give back to the community by donating to mosques, and assisting them in preparations for daily suhoor and iftar meals for the public. Mosques and universities hold annual interfaith iftars as they welcome people of other faiths to join Muslims in opening their fasts at sundown. If Ramadan falls in the summer months, the nights are shorter allowing friends and families to spend it together engaging in prayer and suhoor. There is also an increased sense of community and brotherhood during the month of Ramadan. Muslims from around the neighborhood congregate for “Taraweeh”, a nightly Ramadan prayer.

Ramadan is a chance for Muslims to redeem themselves. Apart from redemption, Ramadan allows for improved mental clarity and concentration. We have all experienced a “food coma”, a state in which we feel extremely lethargic. In contrast, even with little food and water, Muslims find periods during their fast where they feel a brain fog lifted and mental concentration improved. Ramadan reveals the strength of the body and the power of the mind. Similar to other religions and traditions, fasting reveals to us that our appetite has less power over us than we think and that we are stronger than we realize. It illuminates the power we have over our urges.
 

The first day of Ramadan is the hardest for most people; however, after a few days, the body gets accustomed to the new change. During Ramadan, for the pre-dawn meal (suhoor), health experts strongly recommend to drink plenty of water and eat wholesome foods that provide energy to last the long hours of summer. Foods such as yogurt lassi, fruit and date smoothies, chia seed pudding, greek yogurt with granola, oatmeal with bananas, and avocado toast are commonly recommended. For the post-dawn meal (Iftar), it is recommended to break your fast with dates and water, as dates provide a burst of natural sugar that your body needs, followed by grilled chicken or fish with vegetables, salads, and soup. During Ramadan, one should stay away from foods that are saturated with oil, artificial sugars, or salts; otherwise, it defeats the purpose of living a healthy lifestyle. Begin and end your fast on a nutritious note, and your body will thank you in the long run.

Ramadan is a chance for Muslims to cleanse the mind,  body, and soul. Some find it the perfect antidote to our fast-paced digital culture that can leave us mentally exhausted and disconnected with nature, personal relationships, and our inner selves.

After getting married and moving to my own home, I had to learn all about the essential spices that are found in a desi kitchen. Before marriage, it never dawned upon me the significance of these spices that I grew up eating, nor did I bother to learn what each spice was as my mom handed me the spices needed as I followed recipes. Standing perplexed in my kitchen in Texas, instead of facetiming my mom, I decided to take matters into my own hands and self-learn. I was determined to start adulting and did my research on the essential spices needed for Indian cooking, before heading to the grocery store. I browsed through my bookmarked recipes that I created in the past, and came up with a list of spices commonly found in all of them.

Following are the few fundamental spices that will make your curries irresistible. You can put them in a masala dabba which can be easily found on Amazon or any Indian grocery store, or in clear jars with labels on them for easy access. Without further ado, I present to you “The Magnificent Seven”:

 1. Red Chili powder (Laal Mirch)

Consists of pure red ground chillies. One of the key ingredients that makes Indian cooking spicy, eliminating blandness which differentiates Indian cuisines from other cuisines.

2. Turmeric powder (Haldi)

The main ingredient that gives Indian dishes their distinct yellow color. It is known to have an abundance of health benefits.

3. Coriander Powder (Dhaniya Powder)

It is an aromatic stimulant that brings out the flavorsome savor of Indian curries. It also acts as a thickener.

4. Cumin seeds (Zeera)

Cumin is grown from seeds. Cumin seed is used as a spice for its distinctive and intense flavor and aroma. It can be used to add a smoky note to Indian dishes.

5. Cumin powder (Zeera Powder)

Cumin powder is derived from ground cumin seeds. Its flavor can be described as warm and earthy and plays well with others, especially with coriander powder.

6. Garam masala (Ground Spices)

This is a blend of whole spices such as coriander, cumin, cardamom, cloves, black pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg that have been ground and roasted. The words garam masala literally translate to “hot spices”.

7. Cardamon (Elaichi)

There are two kinds of cardamom used in Indian cooking: green and black. Green cardamom tastes light and sweet. Black cardamom, on the other hand, is powerful and smoky.

The magnificent seven spices listed above can be used separately or together. You are guaranteed to find them in any Indian recipe. Some of the more popular appetizers and dishes include pakoras, samosas, daal, mixed sabzi, curry, biryani, etc. Now you can say goodbye to the ready made MSG filled masala packets, and say hello to a trend that is better for both your health and wallet.