Also known as

Rock candy

Description

The term misri refers to crystallized sugar lumps. Misri has its origins in India and Persia. Arabic writers in the first half of the 9th century described the production of candy sugar or misri. Crystals were grown as a result of cooling supersaturated sugar solutions. In order to accelerate crystallization, confectioners later learnt to immerse small twigs in the solution for the crystals to grow on. The sugar solution was colored with cochineal and indigo and scented with ambergris or flower essence. Other Food coloring may be added to the mixture to produce colored candy. Misri has many culinary uses and is preferred over refined sugar by some.

Powdered misri- Misri can be powdered coarsely by pounding ina mortar with apestle or into a fine powder in a grinder.

How to select

Misri is available at grocery store across India in bulk bins. They may also be available in the market as easy to use sachets, pillow packs or laminated plastic bulk packs. They should white crystalline in color without any lumpiness.

Culinary uses

· Misri is a great sweetener for tea or coffee and simply looks pretty on the table.
· It is also popular among makers of homemade fruit liqueurs.
· Loved by both kids & grown ups, this rock candy makes a good substitute for dessert after meals.
· It is widely used in India with aniseed (saunf in Hindi) as a mouth freshener, especially after meals. One can find these two being offered along with the check/bill, at most restaurants in India.

How to store

Store misri in an airtight container and keep it ina cool and dry place in the cupboard.

Health benefits

· Candy sugar is known for centuries for its therapeutic applications.
· It is known to be effective in relieving cough.