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About Paan

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Paan is a South Asian treat usually served at the end of a meal and at certain ceremonies such as weddings, receptions, mendhi parties, and sangeets. Paan can be bought on nearly every street corner in India.

Paan consists of a betel leaf wrapped in a triangular shape with a mixture of spices, mukhwas, dried fruits, and sugar.

Preparation

A simple paan can be prepared the following way:

  • Wash a fresh betel leaf and dry with a cloth.
  • Prepare a mixture of spices with:
    • Cardamom
    • Anise
    • Cloves
    • Shredded coconut
    • Supari (betel nuts)
    • Sugar-coated fennel seeds
  • Add a small amount of the mixture on top of the betel leaf.
  • Fold the leaf into a triangular shape and present to guests.

The ingredients of the paan mixture vary by region and by individual tastes.