A taste of India: Exploring edible souvenirs

Indian cuisine is all about celebrating the diversity of regional cultures. Moveover, generic souvenir foods. The hottest trend is taking a bite out of India's rich culinary tapestry by bringing home unique and authentic flavours from its various regions.

“Regional Indian food will boom, with North East, Himalayan and distinct micro cuisines like Madurai, Palakkad from the South or Saraswat and Portuguese from Goa, coming into focus and keeping their authenticity.”

-Chef Auroni Mookerjee (Godrej Food Trends Report 2024)

Beyond the usual: The local brews

Venture beyond the ubiquitous chai and discover the unique world of Indian alcoholic beverages. Feni, a potent cashew apple spirit from Goa, offers a fiery kick, while Buransh juice originates from a rhododendron flower from the Himalayas. It has a delicate floral aroma. These regional specialities are a true conversation starter and a way to experience India's diverse drinking culture.

A world of condiments

For those who love to add a zing to their meals, India offers many artisanal condiments. Kasundi, a mustard sauce from Eastern India, packs a punch with its pungent and spicy flavour. In contrast, Bhuira Jam, a date and tamarind chutney from Gujarat, offers a sweet and tangy balance. These condiments are not just flavourful; they're a glimpse into the diverse culinary traditions of different regions.

Pickle power: A tangy tradition

Pickles are an integral part of the Indian meal, and they make fantastic souvenirs. From the fiery Gunda pickles of Gujarat to the Lime Achaar of South India, there's a pickle for every taste bud. Don't forget the sweet and savoury Mango pickle, a national favourite that pairs perfectly with Indian dishes or adds a zing to parathas. These pickles are a testament to India's mastery of preserving flavours.

Sweet endings: Jaggery and more

Jaggery, an unrefined cane sugar, is a healthier alternative to white sugar and a key ingredient in many Indian sweets. Take home a block of jaggery to add to your chai or simply enjoy its rich, molasses-like flavour. For a truly decadent treat, explore regional sweet specialties like the melt-in-your-mouth Mysore Pak. These sweet treats are a delightful way to end your Indian culinary adventure.

Savoury snacks: Khakra and bhujia

Look no further than India's vast array of savoury snacks. Khakhra, a thin, crispy flatbread, comes in a variety of flavours like pani-puri or peri peri and can be enjoyed on its own or paired with dips. Bhujia, a deep-fried gram flour snack, is available in a range of spice levels, offering a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavour. These snacks are perfect for satisfying those mid-day cravings.

Do you know of any other edible souvenirs? Let us know in the comments

Godrej Food Trends Report 2024 – the detailed edition is available for download at www.vikhrolicucina.com