Falooda

Falooda (also spelled Faluda) is a popular dessert originating from the Indian subcontinent. It is a cold dessert made from mixing rose syrup, vermicelli, sweet basil (sabja) seeds with milk, often served with ice cream. The dish is quite popular in many parts of South Asia, Middle East, and their diaspora communities worldwide.

History

The origins of Falooda go back to Persia, where a similar dessert, Faloodeh, was popular before the advent of Islam. The dessert came to the Indian subcontinent during the Mughal Empire, and was adapted to the local culinary culture.

Ingredients and Preparation

The basic ingredients used in the preparation of Falooda are milk, rose syrup, vermicelli, and sweet basil (sabja) seeds. Some variations may include pistachios, almonds, and other nuts. It is often served with vanilla ice cream or kulfi, a traditional Indian ice cream.

To prepare Falooda, the vermicelli is first boiled until it is soft. The sweet basil seeds are soaked in water until they swell. The rose syrup is mixed with milk in a tall glass, then the cooked vermicelli and swollen basil seeds are added. The dessert is then topped with a scoop of ice cream and garnished with nuts.

Variations

There are many regional variations of Falooda. In Pakistan, a version called Royal Falooda is popular, which includes fruit salad, jelly, and custard. In Bangladesh, a version of Falooda made with ketaki water and mango is popular.

Cultural Significance

Falooda is often consumed to break the Ramadan fast in many parts of South Asia. It is also a popular street food and is commonly sold by street vendors in India and Pakistan.

See Also

• List of Indian desserts
• List of Pakistani desserts
• List of Bangladeshi desserts