Mina's Pistachio Almond Cardamom Kheer (Indian Rice Pudding)

If you've been to an Indian buffet, you've probably had some kheer. This kheer is a regular rice pudding made with Indian spices. Cardamom, almond and pistachio are common flavorings in Indian desserts. It was flavored at the end with kewra water. You can also add a touch of saffron water to give a yellow color to the dessert as well.

Every culture that uses rice as a starch has some form of rice pudding. In France, it's called le riz au lait. In Vietnam, it's chè đậu trắng, a black eyed pea sticky rice pudding. And of course, there is good old American rice pudding, usually topped with nutmeg, mace and cinnamon.

Mina is Lulu's cousin. We had a potluck going on this weekend and she brought desserts. And as a food blog addict, I had to post it.

Magret de Canard Roti au Miel Epices (Cardamom, Ginger, Mango and Star Anise spiced Honey Roasted Duck Breast)

I find duck meat to be very sophisticated. So whether you're throwing an elegant dinner or you're having a romantic dinner, duck is the perfect choice.

I'm used to making a French preparation of duck, but I wanted to use oriental flavors for this recipe instead.  I decided to use star anise and honey as the base for the glaze. Star anise is a classic Asian flavor, and I have some very special honey at home that I try to use whenever I need a sweetener for a dish.  Last time I was in Paris I got a jar of raw honey from my sister's in-laws who are honey makers in Amiens, a town in the nothern region of France.  It's just out of this world.

Baji's Masala Chai

Masala Chai is a very strong tea flavored with a lot of Indian spices. You might have tried it at your neighborhood coffee shop, but this is an authentic recipe I got from my husband's late grandmother. Everyone called her Baji. 

The first time I had some, I stayed up all night, and not knowing what to do, I cleaned, ironed, vacuumed and shopped online. I finally collapsed in exhaustion the next morning at 10 a.m. So beware if like me, you're not used to too much caffeine, it's very strong! Or drink it in the morning. Enjoy!