Tag: Dairy product

Dairy products encompass a variety of food items made from milk, including common products like yogurt, cheese, milk, and butter. There are also fermented dairy options such as Mishti doi and Shrikhand, which are traditional Indian desserts.

Smoked Bandel Cheese

Bandel Cheese: A Taste of Colonial Bengal

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Epicurean Odyssey12 Comments

Bandel cheese, a unique artisanal cheese from Kolkata, boasts a rich colonial history rooted in Portuguese influence. Originating in the 16th century, it combines local cheesemaking traditions with European techniques, notably through acid-coagulation and smoking for preservation. With a bold, smoky flavor, it’s a standout in India’s culinary landscape. Now rediscovered by food enthusiasts, Bandel cheese faces threats from declining artisan practices, emphasizing the need for preservation to maintain this historical gastronomic treasure.

Kahi & Geymar: A Unique Iraqi Breakfast Experience

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Epicurean Odyssey8 Comments

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.

Starting the Year on a Sweet Note: Kunafeh & Halawet el-Jibn in Baghdad

On By Indrajit Roy ChoudhuryIn Epicurean Odyssey15 Comments

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.