Usage

"Chandi-ka-varq is a thin silver leaf and Sone-Ka-Varq is a thin gold leaf which is normally used as decoration or facelift on Indian sweets or mithai, chyavanprash, paan, supari, mukhwaas, biryanis, candied fruits and baked products and sometimes even in beverages like cocktails and mocktails." The silver and gold vark is made by pounding the metals into thin and fragile sheets backed with a paper for support and later peeled away before use.

Nowadays, to save money, people may add silver foils instead of pure silver." Therefore, it is important to buy these ingredients from trusted sources and ensure you are not buying anything fake.

While donning pretty long earrings, elegant ornamental bracelets or sleek chic watches made from silver is a well-known style trend for women of all ages, a surprising fact is that this glossy metal is also a beneficial beauty ingredient. And much like how silver in jewellery and accessories is an everlasting fashion fad, the use of the metallic element in skincare too is a time-tested custom, being practised for the past several centuries. Yes indeed, silver, akin to other precious metals of gold, pearl, silver too has been touted for its powerful anti-inflammatory and soothing antiseptic properties since ancient times.

Thanks to its shiny look, Vark is used in many festive delicacies to make them attractive and give them a rich appearance. Here are some ways in which you can use gold and silver varq in your food:

• Vark can be used to decorate various drinks like sharbats and thandai. A layer of silver or gold varq is added to the surface of the drink in order to make it look stylish.
• Desserts like Phirni, Jalebi, Kaju Katli and Barfi have a thin layer of varq on them to give them an appealing look.
• Dry fruits and nuts are often coated with silver varq to make them look festive.
• Biryanis or rich meat curries are also often decorated with varq to give them a royal touch.
• Silver Vark is most often used on the outer layer of the Betel Leaf (Paan) to make it look fresh and appealing. You may also find Varq covered cardamoms inside the Paan.
• Although Silver and Gold Vark is considered to be edible and safe, it is best to restrict their use for decorative purposes and also use them in moderation.