Handesh

Handesh is a traditional dessert originating from Sylhet region of Bangladesh and the Indian state of Assam. It’s usually made with a combination of rice flour, wheat flour, molasses, sugar, and vegetable oil. If desired, these sweet treats can be enriched with cinnamon or cardamom. The flours are mixed with sugar, molasses, and water in order to make a thick batter. The batter is left to rest for a few hours or overnight, and it’s then fried in oil in batches on both sides until brown and fully cooked. These dense and crisp sweet treats are typically enjoyed with a cup of tea or warm milk on the side. Handesh is especially popular during the winter, and it’s often served at weddings.