मुखवास
Mukhwas: India’s after-meal mouth freshener, explained
What mukhwas is, what goes into it (saunf, dhana dal, paan, gulkand), why Indians eat it after meals, and how to choose a supari-free mukhwas.
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Quick answer
Mukhwas is a mix of seeds and flavourings that Indians eat after a meal to freshen the mouth. Common ingredients are saunf (fennel), dhana dal (roasted coriander), til, paan leaf and gulkand. Supari-free mukhwas leaves out areca nut and tobacco.
What does mukhwas mean?
Mukh means mouth and vas means fragrance. Mukhwas (मुखवास) is the small bowl passed around after lunch or dinner in Indian homes and restaurants, to freshen the mouth and round off the meal.
What is mukhwas made of?
- Saunf (fennel): the base of most mukhwas, plain, roasted or sugar-coated.
- Dhana dal: roasted split coriander seeds, nutty and savoury.
- Paan leaf and gulkand: for a meetha-paan taste.
- Til, ajwain, elaichi, coconut: in many regional mixes.
- Amla: dried, tangy-sweet pieces.
Why supari-free?
Some mukhwas and paan mixes contain supari (areca nut). Many families prefer supari-free mukhwas so the same bowl can go to grandparents and children. All Saanjh mukhwas is supari-free and tobacco-free.
The after-meal tradition
Saunf after meals has been an Indian after-meal digestive tradition for centuries, which is why restaurants still hand it out with the bill. A teaspoon is enough.
Saanjh mukhwas
Gulkand Paan for a sweet meetha-paan finish, Bhuna Dhana for a savoury crunch, Khatta-Meetha Amla for a tangy bite, or all three in the Bhojan ke Baad box.
Questions people ask
What is the English name for mukhwas?
Mukhwas is usually called an after-meal mouth freshener in English.
Does mukhwas contain supari?
Some do. Saanjh mukhwas does not contain supari or tobacco.
How much mukhwas should I eat?
About half to one teaspoon after a meal.
Can children eat mukhwas?
Supari-free, tobacco-free mukhwas like Saanjh’s is enjoyed by all ages. Give small children only a small pinch, as with any seeds.
