Latest news with #Kunafa
Daily Mirror
12-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
'I tried sweet sushi for the first time and made wild discovery'
Sushi and dessert are probably not two food items you every thought would go together. For most people, sushi will conjure up fishy feelings - or at the very least, make you think of soy sauce-coated cucumber. The key component of sushi, however, is the rice, which is seasoned with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt to give it that distinctive taste. Meanwhile, sweet treats are all the rage, with the likes of Dubai chocolate, mochi and pistachio-flavoured snacks making waves on social media. So when I started seeing videos on TikTok about a cafe with branches nearby in Manchester combining sushi and dessert, I was intrigued to say the least. So, what is a sushi dessert, and where can you get it from? The viral food is made by Little Dessert Shop, and while it might look like sushi, fear not—there isn't a piece of fish in sight. The viral Kunafa Sushi Crepe, £8.50, is a "rolled crêpe filled with Kunafa, drizzled in white chocolate, topped with pistachio nut crumbs and fresh raspberries". To give it its name, the snack is shaped like bite-sized sushi rolls, which somehow makes it all the more delicious when you tuck in. Why is it that mini versions of things taste so much better? With Dubai chocolate all the rage at the moment - you can barely scroll through your social media pages without seeing some pistachio-related dessert - it feels like a very timely, and very tasty addition to the menu. If you're feeling even more decadent, you can get yourself a chocolate pot to dunk the little sushi rolls in. Think of it like an ultra-sugary (and arguably tastier!) soy sauce or wasabi. When I tried the much-hyped Kunafa Sushi Crepe, I had some seriously high expectations. The number of people that I'd seen hailing this dessert on TikTok was wild, and there's some serious competition on the market. It feels like there are more dessert restaurants than pubs in the UK these days (joking, obviously - but they do seem to be cropping up at a rate of knots). When things are massively hyped, it can go one of two ways. You can immediately buy into the hype, or you can be left feeling disappointed and wonder what everyone was so obsessed with. In this case, thankfully, I fell into the former category. On their packaging they even claim to be the 'UK's most viral dessert,' so they hype themselves up too - but I feel it's an accolade they deserve. I've never tasted kunafa quite as dense and gorgeous as this before, and the pistachio flavours were top notch. Pair that with the chocolate pot, and it was an intense flavour sensation. Plus, chocoholics will be thrilled to know you can get a box which includes mini pancakes and brownies too, so if you've got a super sweet tooth, they've got you covered. I genuinely haven't enjoyed a Dubai chocolate-inspired item quite like this one. While it's so sweet you won't want more than a couple of pieces, it leaves you feeling satisfied because it's so delicious. I made a discovery I really didn't expect – sweet sushi really is as good as the savoury variety! I'd give this a 10/10, easily. There are Little Dessert Shops up and down the country, so you can try this viral sensation for yourself - but be warned, you'll probably want to go back again and again for more, and it'll probably become your favourite dessert shop.
Hindustan Times
07-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Hindustan Times
From Kunafa to lazy cakes: The chocolate trends that broke the internet
Chocolates can instantly uplift the mood, and even studies back this fact. Therefore, when we see chocolate reels on Instagram, it triggers nostalgia and a sense of comfort. So this doesn't come as a surprise when chocolate reels crosses millions of views in no time. On World Chocolate Day, we elaborate on the trends that picked up and flooded the internet, gradually leading to new interpretations and innovations. The craze for Kunafa chocolates was such that it lead to the shortage of pischatios across the globe and a rise in prices. 1. Kunafa Chocolate Bars The 'Dubai-style' pistachio kunafa chocolate reel reached tens of millions of views on social media. The craze was such that it lead to the shortage of pischatios across the globe and a rise in prices. It generated a wave of copycats and inspired global launches, including a viral bar in New Orleans. In India, several chocolatiers and bakeries have also introduced their own interpretations of the Kunafa chocolate bar, adapting the concept to local tastes and ingredients —from rose syrup infusions to saffron-dusted toppings. 2. Lazy Cake Once a humble no-bake treat, no‑bake lazy cake shot to fame with reels racking up 5–10 million views each. Its appeal lies in the simplicity—just biscuits, cocoa, and condensed milk folded into a fudgy block and chilled. The hashtag #lazycake has trended globally, with influencers showcasing quick-prep versions and gourmet upgrades. In India, it's been spotted at boutique bakeries as a 'retro dessert revival,' often spiked with local ingredients like filter coffee or Parle-G chunks for added nostalgia. 3. Hot Chocolate Bombs These spherical delights—solid chocolate shells filled with cocoa mix, marshmallows, or sprinkles—continue to captivate foodies. Reels showing hot milk being poured over them to create a dramatic explosion routinely hit 2–5 million views. What began as a winter treat has now become a year-round gifting favourite. Artisanal chocolatiers in India have added a twist with regional flavours like masala chai, paan, or gulkand-stuffed hot chocolate bombs, making them a festive and viral sensation every season. 4. Ruby Chocolate With its natural pink hue and berry-like tang, Ruby chocolate took over the internet shortly after its global debut. It sparked more than 120 million Google searches and thousands of reels showcasing its vibrant colour and versatility—from ruby-coated truffles to Instagram-worthy ruby mousse bars. On Instagram alone, #ruby has 4.1 million posts, and #rubychocolate trends regularly. In India, it's finding its place in luxury dessert menus and DIY chocolate kits, appealing especially to Gen Z and millennial audiences obsessed with aesthetic and novelty. Chocolatiers' take on the trends Varun Inamdar, chocolatier and culinary expert The speed, scale and virality of these trends is a testament to how powerful visual storytelling and digital platforms are in shaping food trends today: good, bad, ugly all debatable in the same heartening to see a regional dessert being reimagined in creative ways, from cheesecakes to ice creams, while still honoring its roots. Mahek Sugandh, founder and head chocolatier at Cacao Springs and The Binge Ruby chocolate, chocolate bombs, and lazy cakes all had their viral moment — fun, fleeting, and full of flair. But Pista Kunafa Chocolate is different. It's not just a trend; it's become a global movement. You now see its influence extending into cakes, gelato, spreads, and more. People today crave more than taste — they're looking for storytelling, novelty, and the joy of discovery. They want to share something new with their circle, something experiential. Ruby Islam, head chef, Manam Chocolate Chocolate bombs, lazy chocolate cakes, and ruby chocolate feel more like Instagram-driven moments than meaningful food innovations. While kunafa chocolate has also inspired us and we have our own version/ interpretation of it - The Kunafa Stack. What tends to last are products that are either nostalgic or genuinely innovative — with thoughtful flavour pairings or smart craftsmanship. It's those with substance, not just style, that shape long-term consumption patterns and industry shifts.
Time of India
05-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
UAE: Dubai airports sells 2.5 million chocolate bars in 6 months, here are the top brands
Dubai Duty Free saw a surge in chocolate sales, with 2.5 million bars sold in the first half of 2025, driving Dh165 million in revenue/ Image Composite: Instagram Dubai's airports have become a chocolate lover's paradise, with a remarkable 2.5 million bars of locally made chocolates sold in just the first half of 2025. This surge in sales, which has generated an impressive Dh165 million in revenue, underscores the increasing demand for UAE-based chocolate brands. Speaking to local media outlet Dubai Eye, Ramesh Cidambi, CEO of Dubai Duty Free, highlighted that these sales have provided a significant boost to the local economy. Cidambi pointed out that, since these brands are homegrown, the majority of the revenue from these chocolate sales remains within the UAE, benefitting the country's economy as a whole. FIX : The Viral Pistachio Kunafa Chocolate FIX has become synonymous with "Dubai chocolates," particularly due to its world-famous pistachio kunafa chocolate. This unique fusion of traditional Middle Eastern dessert flavors with chocolate took the world by storm. Despite various attempts by other brands to replicate it, the authentic FIX taste remains an exclusive treat found only in the UAE. In an exclusive collaboration with Dubai's Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan, FIX crafted a one-of-a-kind chocolate flavor, tailored to his personal preferences, which included Halawt, a traditional Middle Eastern dessert. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like An engineer reveals: One simple trick to get internet without a subscription Techno Mag Learn More Undo The brand has continued to innovate, recently launching a tropical flavor, "Time to Mango," which aims to capture the essence of Dubai's sunny climate. L'ocali: Luxury Meets Heritage The Dubai-born brand L'ocali blends two key pillars of the UAE, heritage and luxury. Its chocolates, which include dates wrapped in 24k edible gold, embody the opulence that Dubai is famous for. L'ocali's offerings also include chocolate-coated dates with various fillings such as pistachio, rose, and orange peel, as well as gourmet chocolates crafted from Belgian truffles and Swiss chocolate. The brand's focus is on capturing the essence of Dubai's luxury experience, making it a favorite among both locals and tourists. Bateel: The Pioneer of Date Chocolate Bateel is more than just a chocolate brand, it's a part of the UAE's culinary heritage. Established in 1992, the brand is deeply rooted in both the UAE and Saudi Arabian traditions, with its headquarters in Dubai. The word "Bateel" refers to the young offshoot of a date palm tree, symbolizing growth and new beginnings, which aligns with the brand's commitment to innovation in chocolate. Bateel revolutionized the chocolate industry when it "invented the date chocolate" in 2000, combining the rich flavors of dates with the decadence of high-quality chocolate. Beyond its signature date chocolates, Bateel also offers artisanal chocolates from regions like Brazil and the Dominican Republic, along with cookies inspired by Middle Eastern flavors like date dhibs and milk chocolate sesame praline. The brand's expansion into the broader food sector, with the opening of Cafe Bateel in 2007, cemented its position as a beloved spot for residents and visitors alike. In 2023, it launched Bateel El'an, a more compact, cafe-focused format. Al Nassma: The Camel Milk Chocolate Pioneer Founded in 2008 by Dubai Ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Al Nassma is the UAE's first camel milk chocolate brand, and it has become an iconic name in the Middle East. Camel milk has long been a staple in the region, particularly among Bedouins, and Al Nassma uses this unique ingredient to craft chocolates that reflect the traditions of the Arabian desert. The brand has made a mark with its "hollow figures," caravan boxes, pralines, and chocolate bars. Known for its luxurious offerings, Al Nassma has positioned itself as the "Godiva of the Middle East," combining high-quality chocolate with the distinct flavor of camel milk. Samha: Camel Milk with a Twist Launched in 2019 by Prime Chocolate, the parent company of Al Nassma, Samha brings another dimension to the world of camel milk chocolate. While Al Nassma offers a broad range of camel milk-based chocolates, Samha focuses specifically on camel milk-covered dates, which are a local favorite. Samha has also embraced the pistachio kunafa flavor, adding a camel milk twist that brings a unique local touch. The bite-sized treats are a popular choice for birthdays, gatherings, and celebrations, helping people from diverse nationalities in the UAE share a taste of local culture. I Love Dubai: A Fusion of Local Flavors If you thought pistachio kunafa chocolate was the most innovative combination, think again. "I Love Dubai" offers some of the most unique chocolates in the region, including pistachio baklava chocolate and gahwa crunch. The pistachio baklava is a nod to the UAE's rich history of layered desserts, while the gahwa crunch incorporates gahwa, the Emirati term for Arabic coffee, a symbol of the country's legendary hospitality. Another standout is halwa rahash, a Middle Eastern dessert made from sesame seed paste. It has a nutty, fudge-like texture, and when paired with chocolate, it creates a truly distinctive local flavor experience.
Indian Express
08-06-2025
- Business
- Indian Express
40 kiosks in 1.25 acres: The rise of Panchkula's night food street
Written By Aishani Chauhan & Divyanshi Thakur As the sun sets over the bustling city of Panchkula, the aroma of sizzling noodles, melting cheese, and buttery parathas starts drawing in a vibrant crowd of night owls, disco-goers, and youngsters to Sector 5. Spread across 1.25 acres, this Haryana Shahari Vikas Pradhikaran (HSVP) initiative began taking shape after bids closed on January 19, 2022. Forty vibrant kiosks, mostly 3.05 by 6.05meters, to give street vendors a permanent space while easing encroachments in residential areas. The first to open shop was Eat n Sip, launched in May 2024 with just Rs 700 and offering only Chinese food. 'We faced losses for nine months,' says Rimpi, the kiosk owner. They gradually added continental dishes and eventually transformed into a 24/7 joint, now famous for its comforting desi ghee parathas served at odd hours, something no one else offers in the area. Panchkula's Sector 5 — what once saw drunk altercations and safety concerns — has now also improved thanks to increased police patrolling. 'Earlier, we were worried about the night crowd, but now it's much better. Cleanliness and safety are top priorities,' Rimpi adds. Eat N Sip has become a nighttime hotspot, drawing hungry youngsters and night-shift workers, especially after midnight. Another crowd-puller is MPG Foods, a pure vegetarian outlet that operates almost round the clock. Known for its consistent rush even post-midnight, the kiosk adds a touch of international flair with its Turkish ice cream, delighting both adults and children alike. Further down the row, Don Clooney, a recent addition with existing outlets in Chandigarh, has created a niche for itself with a menu full of Western delicacies and a standout dessert: Kunafa, which is a rare sight in the tricity area. 'We opened just three months ago, but our customer base is growing every day,' says Sahil Pathania, who manages the branch and adds – 'Most of our crowd comes between 9 pm and 1 am.' Then there's Coyote Crunch, a cheerful dessert café known for its signature Coyoteez which is a layered dessert cup with gooey brownies, soft-serve ice cream, and sprinkles, particularly loved by kids. Their weekends are buzzing, keeping the café pleasantly busy. The Night Food Street is more than a typical food zone. Once complete, it promises to be a cultural and culinary hub, featuring a DJ console, a dance floor, and a performance stage for live events, all designed to create a festive, open-air night market vibe. While currently only 7-8 of the 40 kiosks are operational, the vendors expect the entire street to be fully functional in the next 1.5 years. However, the journey so far has not been easy for everyone. In the middle of the excitement, vendors like Ramavtar carry a quieter, heavier burden. Having operated his chole bhature cart near the same spot for nearly 30 years, he was pressured by HSVP officials to shift into the Night Food Street. It was an offer that came at a steep cost. Unable to afford a stall outright, he sold two of his houses just to rent a kiosk for Rs 1 lakh per month. 'I used to feed poor people for free all the time,' he said. 'Now I have to think twice. That kind of giving isn't possible anymore.' With no staff to assist and growing pressure to cover costs, Ramavtar opens shop at 8:30 AM and shuts by 6 PM. The dream of a 24/7 food street remains inaccessible to him. 'I need to sleep at night to work the next day. These days, even my sleep isn't peaceful as I'm constantly thinking about the rent.' Another vendor, raised concerns over the slow pace of construction. 'There's construction waste everywhere. No music, no events, no lights- how is this a food street yet?' he asked. By being still under construction, it affects footfall and the overall experience for his its modest start, Sector 5's Night Food Street has managed to stir up enthusiasm among Panchkula's residents. The mix of late-night bites, youth culture, and a sense of safety has already set a precedent. Visitors are already noticing the change. 'It's nice to see Panchkula trying something different. It feels like we're finally catching up to the night culture cities like Delhi or Bangalore have,' said a customer. Another customer added, 'The concept is great-food, music, lights…it really brings people together. Once it's fully ready, I can see this becoming a major hangout spot.' As the vibrant lights shine and laughter echoes across the half-built street, one thing is clear: even in its unfinished state, Panchkula's Night Food Street is already a spark in the city's evening skyline. Another such night food market is under construction in Ambala. Haryana's energy, transport and labour minister Anil Vij who represents Ambala cantonment constituency in the Vidhan Sabha has also inspected the night food street market. 'Aa many as 60 food outlet spaces are under construction in this night food street market next to Gandhi ground market in Ambala. Of these 40 will be vegetarian food spaces, while 20 shall be non-vegetarian. The market shall be operational in two months. A total cost of Rs. 5 crore is being incurred on the construction of this market'. The authors are interns at The Indian Express.
The Hindu
30-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Hindu
Want to attend Chennai's first ever Cake Buffet? The only catch — you have to bring a cake to get in
''No cake, no entry', that is our tagline,' laughs Maariya Kulsum Tanveer, one of the organisers of Chennai's first ever Cake Buffet. Organised by The Great Madras Bake Sale team, the event is inspired from Cake Picnic, a concept popular in the US, where thousands of attendees carry a cake each for the picnic and get to try out all the different cakes present there. Taking baby steps, the team (also comprising Cindana Manickavel and Priya Anup) wants to start with 100-120 participants. The event that has piqued the interest of experienced home bakers and novice patissiers has so far already received 80-plus registrations. 'There will also be a competition. We will be judging the look and decoration of the cakes, it will have to be minimum one kilo,' says Maaria. The participants will be divided into three batches. Each batch gets seven minutes to go around and take their slices of cake. Everybody is getting experimental and the organisers are encouraging them to experiment with decoration and flavours. Expect mango and passion fruit cheesecakes, matcha and yuzu cakes (thanks to all recent K-dramas and holidays in Japan), Kunafa cakes..., says Maaria. But how do they plan to keep a check on quality and if the cakes are being baked by the participant? Because let's face it, the greed for dessert can sometimes lead one to be devious. Maaria laughs, 'Yes there is a possibility that someone might bring a store bought cake, it will be difficult to monitor that. And as for taste, it is a buffet — typically in a buffet you will have good and bad dishes.' The idea for now is for participants to sample cakes and have fun. Cake Buffet will take place on July 12 at The Presidency Club. To register, participants must bring a cake. The registration fee is ₹899. For registrations, call: 9840285950
