Chai Latte's Ancestor
The globally adored 'chai latte' from modern cafes is a direct descendant of India's beloved 'masala chai'. This traditional Indian beverage is more than
just tea; it's a carefully crafted blend of aromatic spices like ginger, cardamom, and cinnamon, simmered with milk and tea leaves. The very word 'chai' itself, originating from Hindi, simply signifies tea. Long before specialty coffee shops popularized it, Indian households were perfecting the art of brewing this warming, spiced infusion, making it a staple for comfort and rejuvenation.
Pickling's Deep History
The current Western fascination with preserving various foods through pickling, whether it's vegetables, zesty lemons, or fiery chillies, has an ancient precedent in India's 'achar' tradition. Indian kitchens have been masters of preservation for centuries, creating flavourful, oil-based pickles that are sun-cured and infused with a medley of spices. This time-honoured method of pickling predates modern refrigeration, offering a testament to India's ingenuity in ensuring food longevity and taste.
Snack Mix Culture
What is now widely known as 'trail mix' or 'snack mix' in Western cultures has a well-established Indian counterpart in preparations like 'chivda' and 'namkeen'. These Indian mixtures are artfully combined arrays of roasted nuts, dried fruits, aromatic spices, and crispy fried elements. They serve as a perfect energy-boosting snack, offering a delightful blend of textures and flavours that have sustained and delighted people for generations in India.
Golden Milk's Origin
The 'golden milk latte,' a popular wellness drink featured in health-conscious cafes, finds its roots in the traditional Indian beverage known as 'haldi doodh.' This comforting drink consists of warm milk infused with the vibrant, anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric. Often enhanced with a pinch of black pepper to aid absorption, 'haldi doodh' has been a staple in Indian homes for centuries, primarily consumed for its immune-boosting and healing benefits.
Whipped Coffee's Indian Roots
When 'whipped coffee' took the internet by storm, often attributed to Korean 'dalgona coffee,' its true origins lie in Indian households with 'phenti hui coffee.' This refers to instant coffee that has been vigorously hand-whipped with sugar until it achieves a light, airy, and frothy texture. Decades before its global viral moment, Indian families were already preparing this delightful coffee concoction by hand before pouring milk over the luxurious foam.
The Thali Meal System
The modern concept of 'bowl meals' and 'Buddha bowls,' which offer a curated selection of ingredients in a single dish, bears a striking resemblance to India's traditional 'thali' system. A thali is a meticulously arranged platter featuring a harmonious balance of grains, legumes, diverse vegetables, yogurt, and various accompaniments. This ancient Indian practice ensures a complete and nutritionally balanced meal, providing a wholesome dining experience all in one serving.
