Monilajit

Monilajit is a traditional Bengali sweet dish, primarily prepared during the festival of Durga Puja. The name "Monilajit" translates to "necklace of gold," referring to the golden hue of the sweet. It is a popular offering to the goddess Durga and is often presented in decorative silver or brass boxes.

The primary ingredients of Monilajit include gram flour (besan), sugar, ghee, and cardamom. The preparation involves mixing the gram flour with ghee and sugar, and then cooking the mixture until it forms a dough-like consistency. The dough is then rolled into thin threads, which are twisted together to form a necklace-like shape. The threads are then rolled in a mixture of sugar and cardamom, giving them a golden color and a sweet flavor.

Monilajit is typically served chilled and is often garnished with a sprinkle of cardamom powder or chopped nuts. It is a popular treat during the festive season and is enjoyed by people of all ages. The dish is not only delicious but also holds cultural significance, symbolizing the divine necklace worn by the goddess Durga.