How Indians Got Introduced to Biscuits: A Culinary Journey
Our first encounter with biscuits... can be traced back to a unique cultural blend that took place in the kitchens and tea rooms of India. This journey through the history of biscuits in India intertwines with stories of tradition, innovation, and the humble beginnings of a beloved snack.
Introduction to Biscuits: An Unexpected Flavor
For many Indians, the introduction to biscuits was not through the familiar wafer-thin, cookie-like treats that graced the shelves of Westernized stores. Instead, it was through a curious and somewhat unexpected path, one that originated from a traditional Indian flatbread called naan.
A Brief History of Naan Bread in India
This story begins with the naan bread, a staple in Indian cuisine. Naan is a type of leavened flatbread made from flour, yogurt, and sometimes eggs or butter. It has a soft, pliable texture and a slightly charred outside. Naan bread has a rich history in Indian cooking, with roots tracing back to Ancient India and Persia.
The Curious Link to Biscuits
The term 'nankhatai' (Nankhata) in Hindi, although not very well known in vernacular English, often refers to a dried and pressed version of naan bread. These nankhatai essentially represent the foundation upon which the biscuit industry in India was built. This traditional preparation is not a cookie but a dry, crisp bread that has a similar texture and taste to biscuits.
The Evolution of Nankhatai into Biscuits
Over time, these dried naan breads evolved to become a more modern and refined version of biscuits. In the colonial era, the British introduced their own baking traditions to India, which included the creation of biscuits. The British administrators and soldiers brought with them a taste for sweet, crisp cookies and cookies, and they found that the techniques used to make naan and nankhatai could be adapted to create biscuits.
Modern Indian Biscuits
Today, the biscuit industry in India is a vibrant and growing sector. From the traditional nankhatai to a wide variety of modern biscuits, the market is filled with options to cater to all tastes and preferences. Companies like Parle and Burstz, which have taken traditional Indian flavors and combined them with modern baking techniques, are at the forefront of this industry. They have innovated by infusing biscuits with unique combinations of ingredients like peanuts, raisins, and even spices, creating a distinct flavor profile rooted in Indian cuisine.
Conclusion: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity
The story of how Indians got introduced to biscuits is a fascinating tale of cultural fusion. It begins with the naan, a traditional flatbread that has been a part of Indian cuisine for centuries. Over time, this simple dough evolved into the complex, delicious biscuits that we enjoy today. This journey reflects the dynamic and evolving nature of Indian cuisine, blending ancient traditions with modern culinary techniques.