breakfast Archives

Shooji: A Desi Way to Make Cream of Wheat

Posted on June 25, 2018April 22, 2019 by Indrani

Shooji (sooji), can go by a few different names. Haloowa (halwa) and Shira are a couple of others. What it is, essentially, is the Indian equivalent of Cream of Wheat. In Indian culture, this is a dessert and is often times seen made for pujas (religious ceremonies). We eat it a lot for breakfast. It…

What does monbool mean? monbool is a word I made up. Mon (pronounced mōn) was my mother’s childhood nickname and Bool was my father’s childhood nickname. The passion I have for what I am doing came from them, so I have named this journey in their honor.

I am Indrani, a first generation Indian-American whose parents originally migrated from Kolkata, India. My passion and inspiration for cooking developed from spending time in the kitchen and learning from my father who would cater for large gatherings. My mother encouraged all forms of art, including drawing, dance and music. Growing up with a strong, traditional Indian upbringing, my parents also encouraged participation in the American culture. And now in my own mixed culture family, the fusion of Indian and American traditions is embraced by my husband and children.