Paan is an indian snack that is made up of beetle leaf, areca nuts, slacked lime (common in Panns) and variations of fillings. Today in restaurants, there are 'menus' for Paans. One of the famous types one can get is the Benariasi Paan. There is a famous classic Indian song 'ooh khaike paan benaras wala...' which references the Benariasi Paan. The song can be heard on youtube.
The beetle leaf is said to have stimulating effects and many people get accustomed to eating it just like smoking. It is also considered to be a palate cleanser / breath cleanser. It is an acquired taste to a new comer.
I find it quite refreshing. Actually it is more nostalgic than anything else. My grandmother used to be crazy about Paans, she had a 'Paan Daan' which a container that is like a mini shop for making Paans for oneself (I only learnt about the term 'Paan Daan' from a professional Paan maker who insisted on getting the term right before i left his shop :) ). I remember stealing some of her stuff just because I was curious. It reminds me of her when ever I have it.
The following pictures show a Benarasi Paan from that Paan maker. I love the neatly packed beetle leaf with all the goodies inside.
The following is a Supari Paan with extra beetle nuts. Its definitely a good option for the foodie who doesn't mind trying new things.
source 1: Paan Masala
source 2: Article about someone's experience with Paan
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