Description
What is Elaichi Dana?
Elaichi Dana refers to small, sugar-coated pellets often flavored with cardamom (elaichi). It is a traditional Indian mouth freshener, commonly served after meals in homes, restaurants, and religious events. The word “Elaichi” means cardamom, and “Dana” means seed or grain in Hindi.
Key Features
- Sweet and aromatic
- Usually made from sugar-coated fennel seeds or tiny sugar balls flavored with cardamom essence
- Appears in white, pink, or green colors
- Crunchy texture with a refreshing aftertaste
Ingredients
- Cardamom extract or powder
- Sugar
- Fennel seeds (optional, depending on variety)
- Natural food colors (for colored variants)
Uses of Elaichi Dana
- Mouth freshener after meals
- Digestive aid, especially when combined with fennel seeds
- Offering in temples (often part of prasad)
- Sweet treat for children and adults alike
- Included in festival gift boxes, especially during Diwali
Health Benefits
- Freshens breath naturally
- Aids digestion due to the properties of cardamom and fennel
- Provides a small energy boost due to sugar content
- Can help reduce nausea or bad taste in the mouth
⚠️ Note: While tasty and refreshing, Elaichi Dana contains sugar and should be enjoyed in moderation.
Storage Tips
- Store in an airtight container
- Keep in a cool, dry place
- Avoid exposure to moisture to prevent stickiness
Variations
- Plain Elaichi Dana – sugar balls flavored with cardamom only
- Mixed Mouth Freshener – includes elaichi dana, fennel seeds, dhana dal, and supari bits
- Color-Coated Dana – for visual appeal, especially during festive times
Mike Dooley –
The goodness of rolled wholegrain oats are combined with a variety of tangy organic berries, and baked into crispy clusters that are as nutritious.