If you are game for Kajol’s favourite food, the ‘unusual malai rice’, try these unique combinations too

We all have our guilty pleasures when it comes to food. From maa ke haath ka khaana to dal rice to even chocolates, each and everyone has their own favourite. As such, when quizzed about her favourite food in an Instagram Live session, actor Kajol spoke about having a lot of favourites. “One of my favourite, comfort food is malai, rice, and salt. Yes, an unusual combination. It is my go-to when I am not feeling well,” said Kajol.

Taking a cue from the Tribhanga actor’s candid confession, we decided to get you more on the nutritional benefits of such a combination, and some more unique ones from experts.

A combination of rice, malai, salt, and little milk is known as “dudh bhat” in Bengali, a local food of Bengal, mentioned Dr Rohini Patil, MBBS and nutritionist, founder, Nutracy Lifestyle. 

Lakshita Jain, clinical dietitian and founder of NUTR, Delhi expressed that Indians love to explore different food combinations, such as having dahi (yogurt) with rice and pickles, just like that in Kajol’s case, enjoying malai (cream), rice, and salt. “Kajol‘s preference for malai, rice, and salt is indeed an unconventional choice. Malai is high in fat, rice is rich in carbohydrates, and salt adds flavour,” said Jain. Agreeing, Dr Patil shared salt, especially rock salt, gives various micronutrients like minerals that are a crucial component for maintaining electrolyte balance and facilitating proper nerve and muscle function. 

According to Dr Patil, the combination of rice with malai and salt offers a balance of macronutrients and micronutrients, contributing to a well-rounded meal, more satisfying, and enjoyable meal.

Clinical dietitian Garima Goyal shared a recipe of malai rice

Ingredients 
– 1 cup rice
– 1/2 cup malai (cream)
– Salt to taste

Method

*Cook the rice according to your preferred method until it’s fluffy and fully cooked.
*In a separate bowl, mix the malai until it becomes smooth and creamy.
*Once the rice is ready, gently fold in the malai, ensuring an even distribution.
*Add salt to taste and mix well.
*Serve warm.

 

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Raising the concern that the combination might raise blood sugar levels, Jain said that it can be made healthier by sautéing five favourite vegetables with rice and adding 100 gms of grilled paneer.

Intrigued by the pairing, chef Shipra Khanna shared how she always pushes people to experiment with different ingredients and flavour pairings which can indeed broaden our culinary horizons and enrich our dining experiences. “Diversity in cooking styles and tastes allows us to appreciate the vast array of flavours and cultures,” said Khanna.

She also shared a few unique combinations that are worth a try.

Peanut Butter and pickles- Sounds unusual, but the creaminess of peanut butter complements the tangy crunch of pickles, making for an unexpected but tasty sandwich or snack, said Khanna.

Avocado and chocolate- Mashed avocado adds a creamy texture to chocolate desserts like brownies or smoothies, while also providing a subtle nutty flavour that enhances the richness of the chocolate.

Bacon and maple syrup- The salty, smoky flavour of bacon combines beautifully with the sweetness of maple syrup, creating a deliciously indulgent topping for pancakes, waffles, or even ice cream.

Strawberries and Balsamic vinegar- Drizzling ripe strawberries with aged balsamic vinegar intensifies their natural sweetness and adds a complex, tangy flavour that elevates the fruit to gourmet status.

Blue cheese and honey- The pungent, creamy flavour of blue cheese is balanced by the sweetness of honey, creating a sophisticated flavour profile that’s perfect for drizzling over salads or serving on a cheese platter.

Popcorn and Sriracha- Adding a drizzle of Sriracha sauce to freshly popped popcorn gives it a spicy kick and a unique flavour twist that’s addictive and delicious.

Sprinkling cucumber slices with tajin seasoning (a blend of chili powder, lime, and salt) adds a zesty (Source: Unsplash)

Pineapple and soy sauce – Grilling pineapple and brushing it with soy sauce create a savoury-sweet flavour profile that’s perfect for adding depth to dishes like grilled skewers or stir-fries.

Cucumber and tajin – Sprinkling cucumber slices with tajin seasoning (a blend of chili powder, lime, and salt) adds a zesty, spicy flavour that complements the cool, crispness of the cucumber.

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