Tadka is the final, transformative step in many Indian dishes. A brief moment where hot fat meets spices, releasing aroma, depth, and identity.
This guide explains what tadka is, how it differs across regions, why certain ingredients are chosen, and how it can be prepared easily in European kitchens. This guide also explains how tadka works, why the order of spices matters, and how different regions use oils, spices, and timing to build aroma and balance.
In Odisha, khichadi—locally known as khechudi—holds a deeply ritual role. It is prepared both as everyday nourishment and as prasād during festivals such as Sankranti and Rath Yatra.
This article explains the cultural logic of Odia khechudi, including the distinctive sweet version known as mitha khechudi, and how restraint, intention, and balance shape its preparation.
Millet khichadi reflects an older strand of Indian food culture shaped by climate and grain availability rather than fixed recipes. It uses millets that were traditionally grown where rice was less practical.
This article explains why different millets are used for khichadi, how the dish adapted to regional agriculture, and where millet khichadi fits within everyday Indian cooking today.
Prasadam khichadi is a simple rice and lentil dish prepared in temples as an offering before being shared. It reflects restraint, balance, and intention rather than variety or indulgence.
This article explains why khichadi is used as prasadam, how sattvic principles shape its preparation, and how it fits within the wider khichadi tradition.
Tahri is a regional rice dish shaped by everyday cooking rather than ritual or celebration. Prepared with seasonal vegetables and gentle spices, it reflects practicality, availability, and routine.
This article explains what tahri is, how it differs from khichadi and other rice dishes, and why it evolved as a dependable, one-pot meal in North Indian households.
Urad dal khichadi is a robust winter variation prepared during Sankranti in parts of North India. Made with black urad lentils and rice, it reflects seasonal needs for warmth, strength, and sustained energy.
This article explains why urad dal khichadi is associated with Sankranti, how it differs from lighter khichadi forms, and how its flavour is shaped through slow cooking and tempering.
Bisi Bele Bath is a traditional rice and lentil dish from Karnataka, known for its layered spice profile and vegetable-rich preparation. While related to khichadi, it reflects a more expressive regional approach to everyday nourishment.
This article explains how Bisi Bele Bath evolved, the role of its distinctive spice blend, and how it fits into both household cooking and shared meals, especially for families living outside India.
Bengali Bengali Bhoger or also known as Niramish Khichuri is a seasonal rice and lentil dish associated with comfort, ritual, and reflection. It is prepared during cooler months and quieter days, when food is meant to ground rather than excite.
This article explains how khichuri is traditionally prepared in Bengali households, why it carries cultural significance, and how it fits within the wider khichadi tradition.
Prasadam khichadi is a simple rice and lentil dish prepared in temples as an offering before being shared. It reflects restraint, balance, and intention rather than variety or indulgence.
This article explains why khichadi is used as prasadam, how sattvic principles shape its preparation, and how it fits within the wider khichadi tradition.
Besan, also known as chickpea flour or gram flour, is one of the most versatile ingredients in Indian cooking. Made from finely milled dried chickpeas, besan is used across regions for everyday snacks, comforting curries, steamed dishes, and festive sweets. Its smooth texture, mild nutty flavour, and excellent binding properties make it ideal for batters, gravies, and dough-based preparations. From quick breakfast dishes like besan chilla to street food favourites such as pakoras and dhokla, besan adapts easily to different cooking styles. This guide explores what besan is, why it is widely used in Indian kitchens, popular traditional recipes, and practical tips for everyday use and storage.