Mukhwas: Indian After-Meal Breath Freshener

Mukhwas is an Indian post-meal treat that freshens the breath and helps with digestion. There are countless recipes out there, but they always include seeds and something sweet. The word "mukhwas" means "mouth smell" as the purpose of the mixture is to leave you with fresh breath after enjoying a typically flavorful and spicy Indian meal.

This recipe includes aniseed, dhania dal (which is the core of a coriander seed), and sesame seeds, as well as chuara supari—sugar-coated dried dates—and rose and peppermint essences. These ingredients can be found at Indian groceries and online markets. Once you've figured out which ingredients you prefer, you can create your own blend.

To make mukhwas, you first toast each seed separately. This is done on a dry flat pan or shallow skillet over medium heat. Toasting brings out the seeds' natural flavors and aromas and enhances the taste of the mukhwas. Many recipes, such as this one, include food coloring to turn the sesame seeds red and the dhania dal green, but you can eliminate if you prefer. Then the seeds are combined with the chuara supari and essences and mixed well.

Mukhwas can be enjoyed after all types of dishes, not just Indian cuisine. To eat mukhwas, after a meal place roughly 1/4 teaspoon in your hand and pop into your mouth; chew the mixture until the seeds completely break down and disappear.