Curd and cream are dairy products, both of which are made from milk. Curd is essentially coagulated milk, often made with the help of a culture like lactic acid bacteria, resulting in a thick, yogurt-like consistency. Cream, on the other hand, is the higher-fat component of milk, separated during processing. The fat content significantly distinguishes them, with cream having a much higher fat percentage than curd.
Govardhan Puja is an annual Indian festival celebrated after Diwali, honoring Lord Krishna's protection of Vrindavan. It highlights the significance of cow dung as a sacred material in rituals, symbolizing purity and sustainability. The festival emphasizes gratitude, community, and ecological consciousness, linking spiritual values with respect for nature and traditional practices.
Bengal is renowned for its rich cultural landscape and distinctive culinary heritage, with Chingri Malai Curry emerging as a hallmark of its gastronomy. This prawn dish ranks 31st in Taste Atlas's World's 50 Best Seafood Dishes, making it India’s only representative on the list. Chingri Malai Curry blends local traditions with British colonial influences and Southeast Asian flavors, symbolizing Bengali hospitality and cultural stories. For many, it also evokes cherished family memories and togetherness, showcasing Bengal’s culinary evolution.
Kahi, the national breakfast of Iraq, consists of buttery, flaky pastry layers served with rich geymar, a thick clotted cream made from water buffalo milk. This breakfast dish is typically accompanied by honey, date molasses, or syrup, creating a decadent experience. The combination of crunchy Kahi and creamy geymar offers a luxurious flavor profile, representing a cherished aspect of Iraqi culinary tradition that's truly satisfying and unforgettable.
The financial year-end in Iraq is on December 31st, and this year was no exception. After closing the books, colleagues Ali and the author marked the new year with savory shawarma and a visit to Al Halawany Sweets for Kunafeh and Halawet el-jibn. Halawet el-jibn, a cheese dessert, impressed with its sweet semolina and cheese dough, clotted cream, and pistachio topping. Kunafeh, a crispy and gooey Middle Eastern favorite, also stood out. They savored these treats with aromatic coffee, contemplating the dessert's origins and hidden gem status. The visit left a sweet start to 2023, highlighting the joy of shared food experiences.
