Balushahi (or Badusha/ Padusha as it is referred to in the southern states of India) is a sugar glazed deep-fried flaky North Indian pastry that resembles a doughnut. I know many people call it an Indian doughnut, but that’s doing the Balushai an injustice as it is nothing like a doughnut, except possibly in its appearance. A doughnut is soft and spongy while a Balushahi is flaky. Balushahi, or Badusha is as well known in South India as it is in the North and some might argue about my saying it is North Indian in origin. In fact, I remember it from my childhood as a sweet which wasn’t made in my home but occasionally came in specially wrapped boxes which were brought by some family or friends when they came visiting us. It would also make a rare and very unusual appearance as “bhakshanam” (sweets made and distributed for special occasions like marriages and other ritualistic ceremonies).It is a royal dessert Fried in ghee & soaked in sugar syrup to get that melting texture. It is usually topped with shavings of pistachio or almonds to get a royal feel. One bite of bhalushai makes my day better& relives all my stress .