Snack That Captures the Soul and Heart of Everyone’s Home
In the world of snacks, there is a delightful yet simple snack with a crunch texture and soothing flavor. It is known by various names in different countries, this snack brings a familiar taste that reminds us of our home. It was originally an African delicacy, but now has crossed borders and is cherished as a local snack in many countries. Food has the ability to create a sense of belongingness and nostalgia among students and immigrants abroad who miss the comfort of home. This snack has a homely feeling. You might not know them as CHIN CHIN but it has another name back home. Here’s a list of names of this crunchy delicious snack known in different countries.
CHIN CHIN: Nigeria and Cameroon.
Chin Chin, is a fried snack, it’s a must-kept side dish at weddings, parties and family gatherings. It is similar to the Scandinavian food klenat, which is like a crunchy doughnut made from wheat flour and can be baked or fried. Sometimes Chin Chin contains cowpeas. Many people enjoy adding ground nutmeg to enhance the flavor.
KULKUL: GOA (India)
Kul-Kuls are a traditional Goan Christmas sweet, deeply rooted in Portuguese culinary influence. These treats are essential in many Goan households during the festive season, where families come together to make these crunchy, sweet fried curls. The crispy exterior and slightly soft interior make them a delightful holiday snack, often shared with friends and neighbours during Christmas celebrations.
KHABSEY: Tibetan
Khabsey are traditional Tibetan cookies typically made in large quantities for celebrations like Losar. They come in various shapes and sizes, including some called “Donkey’s ears” and “Knot of eternity.”.Often sprinkled with powdered sugar, Khabsey are enjoyed as a festive treat that keeps everyone busy and satisfied during big celebrations.
URARO: Filipino
Uraro is like an arrowroot cookie, it’s a Filipino’s traditional snack made from arrowroot flour, which is produced from the arrowroot plant tubers. This snack is known for its not so sweetness and delicate crumbles. They are enjoyed as a light snack in the evening and are most famous in the provinces of Marinduque and Quezon. They are great as gifts or souvenirs.
SHAKKAR PARA: India
Shankarpali is an Indian snack commonly baked during festivals like Diwali. It’s an original recipe from Maharashtra, a sweet, crispy treat. The dough is rolled out, cut, and deep-fried till golden brown. Shankarpali is a snack enjoyed by families and brings joy and happiness to people.
And many more PASTA FRITTA: Italia MANDAZI: Kenya OLLYBOLLEN: Germany
More than just a light snack, this treat serves as a cultural ambassador, carrying with it the flavors and traditions of different countries and tying them into stories about joyous events, family recipes, and memorable moments that shape cultural identity and ties to the local community
This snack is a tradition passed down by generations, with each bite reminding us of family legacy and cultural flavours. Moms’ recipes bring memories and generations together and create a homely feeling while baking and eating. This snack brings cultures from different countries together. Being simple it’s an authentic snack during festivals and celebrations and in day-to-day life too.
In Canada, All African Delight brings together all cultural communities through a single bite by bringing taste and flavors from home and creating a snack delicacy.
Mohail
This is a well written blogpost on All African Delights. A definite share! I am a huge fan of Shakarpara which is the Indian version of Chin Chin.