Gum Arabic

Also called Dinka, is an “natural edible gum” in crystal form. It is a resin extracted from the bark of the Indian Babool tree. It is a popular ingredient in Indian and Mediterranean cuisine. It provides heat to the body and is usually eaten in cold winter months. In India it is extensively fried or ground and used to make sweets. Mostly used in making panjiri dish (a dish known to be beneficial for pregnant ladies, to strengthens back bone. In Panjiri, gum crystals are mixed with whole-wheat flour, nuts, and sugar, then fried in ghee.