Captivated by the combination, chef Shipra Khanna emphasized her advocacy for experimenting with diverse ingredients and flavor pairings. She believes in pushing culinary boundaries to expand our horizons and enhance our dining adventures.
We all indulge in our favorite comfort foods, whether it’s mom’s home-cooked meals, simple dal rice, or a sweet treat like chocolates. In an Instagram Live session, actor Kajol revealed her unconventional go-to comfort food: malai, rice, and salt. This unexpected combination is her go-to when she’s not feeling well.
Inspired by Kajol’s candid revelation, let’s explore the nutritional benefits of such unique food pairings, as well as some insights from experts.
Dr. Rohini Patil, MBBS and nutritionist, founder of Nutracy Lifestyle, notes that a blend of rice, malai, salt, and a dash of milk is referred to as “dudh bhat” in Bengali cuisine, a local favorite in Bengal.
Lakshita Jain, clinical dietitian and founder of NUTR, Delhi, highlights Indians’ penchant for experimenting with food combinations, citing examples like pairing yogurt with rice and pickles. Kajol’s choice of malai, rice, and salt, while unconventional, offers a mix of fat, carbohydrates, and flavor.
Jain explains that malai is rich in fat, rice provides carbohydrates, and salt enhances taste. Dr. Patil adds that salt, especially rock salt, provides essential minerals crucial for maintaining electrolyte balance and supporting nerve and muscle function.
According to Dr. Patil, combining rice with malai and salt offers a balance of macronutrients and micronutrients, resulting in a more satisfying and enjoyable meal experience.
Clinical dietitian Garima Goyal generously shared her recipe for malai rice, a comforting dish perfect for any occasion:
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rice
– 1/2 cup malai (cream)
– Salt to taste
Method:
1. Cook the rice using your preferred method until it’s fluffy and fully cooked.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk the malai until it becomes smooth and creamy.
3. Once the rice is cooked, gently fold it in the malai, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
4. Season with salt to taste and mix well.
5. Serve warm and enjoy the creamy goodness of malai rice.
Expressing concern about the potential impact on blood sugar levels, Jain suggested a healthier twist to malai rice by incorporating five favorite vegetables sautéed with rice and adding 100 grams of grilled paneer.
Chef Shipra Khanna, intrigued by unique flavor combinations, encourages culinary experimentation to broaden our culinary horizons and enhance dining experiences. According to Khanna, diversity in cooking styles and tastes enables us to appreciate a wide range of flavors and cultures.
Khanna shared several unconventional yet delicious combinations worth trying:
1. Peanut Butter and Pickles: Despite sounding unusual, the creamy texture of peanut butter complements the tangy crunch of pickles, creating a surprising and tasty sandwich or snack.
2. Avocado and Chocolate: Mashed avocado lends a creamy texture to chocolate desserts like brownies or smoothies, enhancing the richness of the chocolate with its subtle nutty flavor.
3. Bacon and Maple Syrup: The salty, smoky flavor of bacon pairs beautifully with the sweetness of maple syrup, resulting in a delicious topping for pancakes, waffles, or even ice cream.
4. Strawberries and Balsamic Vinegar: Drizzling ripe strawberries with aged balsamic vinegar intensifies their natural sweetness, adding a complex, tangy flavor that elevates the fruit to gourmet status.
5. Blue Cheese and Honey: The pungent, creamy flavor of blue cheese is complemented by the sweetness of honey, creating a sophisticated flavor profile perfect for salads or cheese platters.
6. Popcorn and Sriracha: A drizzle of Sriracha sauce over freshly popped popcorn adds a spicy kick and a unique flavor twist that’s both addictive and delicious.
7. Pineapple and Soy Sauce: Grilling pineapple and brushing it with soy sauce creates a savoury-sweet flavor profile ideal for enhancing dishes like grilled skewers or stir-fries.
8. Cucumber and Tajin: Sprinkling cucumber slices with Tajin seasoning, a blend of chilli powder, lime, and salt, imparts a zesty, spicy flavor that complements the cool crispness of the cucumber.
