"Welcome to Desi Yums: a collection of tasty childhood stories 

de·si (pronounced “they-see”)

Adjective: of, from, or characteristic of India, Pakistan, or Bangladesh.

Desi Yums is the passion project of two roommates, Maddie and Khushboo, who share a love for South Asian cuisine. Despite coming from countries with political tensions, we’ve bonded over our shared culinary traditions and memories. As busy professionals missing the flavors of our homelands, we created Desi Yums to help others quickly and easily incorporate South Asian flair into their meals. Our classes go beyond the familiar chicken tikka masala, showing you the diverse and vibrant world of South Asian cooking. 

We present you with 4 stories:

1. A Tale of Colors: Discover how to create visually stunning desi snacks in under 15 minutes. These appetizers will brighten up any gathering.

2. A Story of Smoke: Learn how to achieve that irresistible smoky flavor, a staple in many South Asian dishes, right in your own kitchen.

3. A Fable of Fermentation: Experience a unique twist on a classic American favorite with our desi-style fermented waffles to accompany your smoke chicken.

4. An Ode to Chai: We reimagine a nostalgic staple, biscuits dipped in chai, as your favorite after-dinner indulgence.

Throughout the workshop, Khushboo and Maddie will share their favorite childhood memories related to these dishes and invite you to share your own. Need tips on shopping at an Indian grocery store? Maddie and Khushboo are here to guide you.

**About Khushboo (KB):** Khushboo hails from India and developed her passion for food while living away from home. Inspired by her mother’s recipes, she rekindled her love for cooking after meeting Maddie. By day, she’s a scientist at MIT, and is trained as an Indian Classical dancer. 

**About Maddie:** Originally from Pakistan, Maddie’s love for food grew through her travels. Known among friends as their human-Yelp, she’s always full of restaurant recommendations and food trivia. She finds joy in cooking as a way to relax and connect with others, balancing this with her role as an Assistant Director at a community mental health agency."

Please contact dmaney@somervillema.gov if you would like your meal to be available to be prepared gluten-free or vegetarian!