The Sweet Kitchen by Rajyasree Sen carries short, delightful entries on the desserts found across India. From Halwa to Rasgulla to Christmas Cakes, the book takes under its sweep delicacies that have their roots in different corners of the world, and thereby serve to bridge the regional and cultural differences. The book shows how, much like everything else, cuisines and culinary skills flow across the borders, and take new forms and develop new flavours. The tales of their origin and the ways in which they are made and consumed in the contemporary times are a testament to not only the diverse taste buds of our mouth, but also of the essentially syncretic and pluralistic nature of the worlds which we inhabit.
As the subtitle of the book indicates, the author provides interesting tit-bits about the sweets along with the tales of their origins and recipes. Since the author comes from a Bengali background, of course one finds more of the Bengali desserts, but she has tried to incorporate as many desserts from the other regions of India as she could. However, as a North Indian, the desserts of Bengal and Odisha did seem exotic but not captivating enough to interest me very much in their cultural histories. But then this is something that would vary from reader to reader.
The author has written for several reputed media houses and her work is well-researched, yet I found most part of the book to be not engaging enough. The last three entries are thematic and not based on a single dessert. I found these thematic entries to be more engaging and better in conveying the extra-culinary information. I also feel that I would have enjoyed this book far more, if it contained pictures of certain desserts and other related things discussed in the book. But then these might just all be my personal issues with the book. Nevertheless I do believe that if you’re a foodie, then this is definitely not a book to be missed. If you’re new at cooking food, then the stories of this book will make your dessert all the more sweet. And if you’re into culture and history, even then this book will be a delicacy for you.
My Rating: *** (3.5/5 stars)
What do you think about this book? Do you like cooking? What is your favourite dessert? Do share your views. Thanks
*I was kindly sent a copy of the book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Views expressed are entirely personal and unbiased.*
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