Dumplings and stuffed foods are delicious and popular dishes enjoyed in many cultures around the world. Dumplings are small, savory balls of dough that can be filled with a variety of ingredients. They are typically boiled, steamed, or fried. Stuffed foods are dishes where a main ingredient is filled or stuffed with other ingredients.
Ranchi, known for its beauty, is now a culinary destination with Asian Tree restaurant offering a memorable dining experience. A visit with family included refreshing beer, delightful Asian dishes, and exquisite dim sums. This gem in Ranchi's dining scene is a must-visit for a culinary adventure, creating cherished moments with loved ones.
Experiencing Iraqi cuisine in Baghdad offered a profound connection to its history and culture, epitomized by the iconic dish Kubbah Saray. As I savored this royal-inspired food at Kubbat al-Baghdady, the blend of spices and textures spoke of Iraq’s rich heritage, from the Abbasid Caliphate to the Ottoman Empire. This culinary journey revealed the importance of food in fostering community and cultural understanding in Iraq.
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.
In Ranchi, I discovered Dal Pitha, a traditional rice flour dumpling filled with spicy lentil mixture. Pithas, similar to pancakes or dumplings, are popular in Bangladesh and India. They are often associated with harvest festivals. I served the pithas with a rich chicken curry. The recipe is vegan, gluten-free, and steamed, making them a nutritious and delicious snack. The joy of exploring new cuisines was truly evident in cooking this delightful meal.
On a rainy summer evening, nostalgia prompts a reflection on Lobongo Lotika, a cherished Bengali sweet. This recipe, rooted in tradition, symbolizes celebration and family love, particularly reflecting the influence of the author's mother-in-law. Making it becomes a meditative ritual, preserving heritage while fostering connections with loved ones through shared joy and memory.
Dolma, a beloved dish with stuffed vegetables like grape leaves, peppers, and eggplants, reflects a culinary evolution across the Mediterranean, Middle East, and India. With origins in the Ottoman Empire, dolma has evolved through Byzantine refinement and Arab influences, reaching diverse regions like Greece, Azerbaijan, and Bengal. Today, it continues to captivate palates with vegetarian and vegan variations, embodying the spirit of cultural exchange and culinary exploration.
The samosa, a beloved Indian snack, has a complex and cosmopolitan history that traces back to Central Asia as "Samsa" in the 10th century. Over time, it evolved in India to suit local tastes, with fillings and cooking techniques varying regionally. As a result of Indian diaspora and British influence, samosas have become a global culinary treasure, each version reflecting the unique flavors and traditions of its adopted home.
Kleicha, a beloved Iraqi treat, is a staple at festive gatherings and holds cultural significance for various Iraqi groups. These traditional cookies, with date-filled and savory variations, have a rich history dating back to ancient Mesopotamia. Baking Kleicha is a communal activity, symbolizing tradition, heritage, and community. Each family adds a unique touch to the recipe, making Kleicha more than just a cookie, but a representation of the warmth and hospitality of Iraqi culture.
Litti-Chokha, a traditional dish from Bihar and Jharkhand, India, consists of roasted wheat flour dough balls stuffed with a mixture of sattu, herbs, and spices, served with a side dish of mashed vegetables. Also a popular street food, its origins loosely trace back to the Magadha kingdom, with the dish evolving throughout history. Famed for its health benefits, cultural significance, and hearty flavors, Litti-Chokha is beloved by diverse classes and served at numerous occasions.
