Indian cuisine is renowned for its rich and diverse flavors, and its dessert repertoire is no exception. While some Indian desserts like Gulab Jamun and Jalebi have gained worldwide fame, there are several lesser-known sweet delights that deserve attention. These hidden gems not only tantalize your taste buds but also offer a glimpse into the lesser-explored facets of India’s culinary heritage. In this article, we will explore 10 lesser-known Indian desserts that are worth discovering and savoring. From the aromatic Awan Bangwi of Tripura to the nutritious Kharwas of Maharashtra, each dessert has a unique story to tell and offers a delightful experience for dessert enthusiasts.
- Awan Bangwi – Tripura:
Originating from the northeastern state of Tripura, Awan Bangwi is a traditional dessert that holds significance during special occasions and festivals. This aromatic sweet dish is prepared by combining sticky rice, cashew nuts, raisins, and grated coconut. The mixture is then steamed in a conical bamboo shoot, resulting in a dense and flavorful dessert with a subtle sweetness. Awan Bangwi reflects the rich culinary heritage of Tripura and is a must-try for those seeking unique dessert experiences.
- Gulgule – Uttarakhand:
From the picturesque mountains of Uttarakhand comes Gulgule, a lesser-known dessert with a delightful taste and texture. Gulgule are sweet fritters made from a batter of whole wheat flour, jaggery, and fennel seeds. These fritters are deep-fried until golden brown, offering a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. Gulgule is often enjoyed as a tea-time snack or as a festive dessert in Uttarakhand, showcasing the region’s culinary diversity.
- Kumbilappam – Kerala:
Kumbilappam, also known as Chakka Kumbilappam, is a traditional dessert from the southern state of Kerala. This unique sweet dish celebrates the abundance of jackfruit, a tropical fruit widely grown in the region. Ripe jackfruit pulp is combined with rice flour, jaggery, and grated coconut, and then wrapped in fragrant bay leaves. The parcels are steamed to perfection, resulting in a sweet and aromatic dessert that captures the essence of Kerala’s culinary traditions.
- Mawa Bati – Madhya Pradesh:
Hailing from the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, Mawa Bati is a delectable dessert made from mawa (reduced milk), refined flour, and sugar. The ingredients are combined to form a dough, which is then shaped into small balls and deep-fried until golden brown. These fried balls are soaked in a sugar syrup, allowing them to absorb the sweetness. Mawa Bati is a rich and indulgent dessert often enjoyed during special occasions and festivals in Madhya Pradesh.
- Sel Roti – Sikkim:
In the northeastern state of Sikkim, Sel Roti holds a special place as a traditional dessert enjoyed during festive occasions. This sweet delicacy is prepared by fermenting a batter of rice flour, sugar, and milk. The fermented batter is then deep-fried until crispy and golden brown, resulting in a unique ring-shaped bread with a sweet aroma. Sel Roti is not only savored in Sikkim but also finds popularity in neighboring regions such as Nepal.
- Thekua – Jharkhand:
Thekua, also known as Khajur, is a hidden gem from the eastern Indian state of Jharkhand. This sweet, biscuit-like snack holds significance during the Chhath Puja festival, a major celebration in the region. Thekua is made from a dough comprising whole wheat flour, jaggery, and ghee. The dough is intricately shaped using a mold or by hand, and then either deep-fried or baked until crisp. Thekua delights taste buds with its unique texture and aromatic flavors, making it a must-try dessert from Jharkhand.
- Lehsun ki Kheer – Rajasthan:
Rajasthan, known for its vibrant culture and robust cuisine, surprises dessert enthusiasts with an unusual creation called Lehsun ki Kheer. Garlic, a prominent ingredient in Rajasthani cuisine, takes the center stage in this dessert. Garlic cloves are boiled to remove their pungency and then cooked with milk, sugar, and a blend of spices. The kheer is garnished with chopped nuts and served chilled, offering a one-of-a-kind taste experience. Lehsun ki Kheer is a testament to the innovative spirit of Rajasthani cooks and their ability to create unexpected yet delicious desserts.
- Kharwas – Maharashtra:
Kharwas, also known as Junnu in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, is an unsung hero in the dessert world, celebrated for its unique preparation and nutritional value. This delicacy is made using the colostrum, the first milk produced by a cow or buffalo after giving birth. The colostrum is mixed with regular milk, sugar, and a pinch of cardamom or nutmeg. The mixture is then steamed or baked until it sets into a soft, velvety pudding. Kharwas not only delights the taste buds but also offers nutritional benefits, making it a true hidden gem of Indian cuisine.
- Malaiyo – Uttar Pradesh:
From the bustling city of Lucknow in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh comes Malaiyo, an unrecognized dessert that captivates with its unique texture and delicate flavors. Malaiyo surprises taste buds with its creamy milk foam, infused with saffron, cardamom, and rose water. The dessert is adorned with finely chopped nuts, adding a delightful crunch. Malaiyo provides a distinct and satisfying dessert experience, allowing dessert enthusiasts to explore the lesser-known sweets of Uttar Pradesh.
- Patoleo – Goa:
Patoleo, a traditional sweet dish from Goa, holds cultural and symbolic significance. Made with rice, coconut, jaggery, and cinnamon, this dessert is prepared by wrapping a sweet filling in turmeric leaves and steaming it until cooked. Patoleo is not only a delicious treat but also represents good luck and prosperity in Goan culture. With its rich flavors and unique preparation, Patoleo offers a healthy and nutritious dessert option that showcases the culinary heritage of Goa.
Final Thoughts:
Indian desserts are a treasure trove of flavors, and while some have gained international recognition, there are numerous lesser-known delicacies waiting to be discovered. From the dense Awan Bangwi of Tripura to the unique Lehsun ki Kheer of Rajasthan, each dessert tells a story and offers a glimpse into the diverse culinary heritage of India. By exploring these lesser-known Indian desserts, one can embark on a delightful journey of flavors and textures, appreciating the creativity and cultural significance behind each sweet creation. So, satisfy your sweet tooth and indulge in the hidden gems of Indian desserts, for they are a testament to the richness and diversity of India’s culinary traditions.