Rusks which are also more commonly known as ‘toasts’ in India, are one of the most popular baked items in the subcontinent known for their association with tea. The popularity of rusk or toast in India is perhaps only matched by biscuits. And why not? After all, rusks are not just delicious but can curb hunger quickly. And when dunked in tea, there is nothing better than the combined taste of both. This is one of the main reasons why the rusk is so popular in India. Every tea shop or stall, whether large or small, carries at least a few varieties and brands of rusk. The popularity of the humble rusk in India can be quite a confusing idea for people around the world as India has a large population of vegetarians. And did you know that the traditional recipe of rusk asks for eggs? But don’t worry and rush to your kitchen to check whether your favourite rusk is safe to eat or not, in fact, most mass-available rusks in India use a recipe that does not contain eggs. In this blog, let us have a look at this unique tradition of eggless rusk options in India, their history, and their popularity. 

Tracing the Roots of Rusks:

In India, the close connection between rusks and tea is unbreakable, but it might come as a huge shock to many Indians that rusks didn't originate here. Historically speaking, there are two versions that theorise the origin of the rusk. According to one version, the Persians in the 7th century CE are credited with inventing rusks, though some say they have roots in ancient Greece. Back then, preserving food without refrigeration was tricky. Thus, rusks were born out of the need to keep bread fresh longer. Baking bread twice removed moisture, extending its shelf life. Soldiers often relied on rusks for sustenance due to their durability. It is said that the first ‘rusk’ was made by Paxamos in ancient Byzantium. This is why rusk was once upon a time known as ‘paximadi’ in Greece. 

Whatever the history of the rusk maybe, like everything else that comes as a guest to the country, Indians have made rusks their own, with their own flavours and tastes. 

Types and Varieties: 

While rusks can be quite dry if eaten as it is, they pair exceptionally well with hot beverages such as tea. If dunked in tea, the hard texture of rusk becomes soft and melt-in-your-mouth which becomes quite easy to bite into and eat. The dunking also helps to enhance the already delicious taste of the rusk.  Rusk has continued to evolve over time and now it is available in a variety of types and variations. From the humble and regular rusk to special cake rusks, tooti-frooti rusk, cashew rusk, cardamom rusk, low-sugar rusk, and a lot more. Frontier cake rusk is a popular rusk option in India that is quite similar to the Italian biscotti. But rusk is not just popular in India, in fact, it is also a great tea snack in other parts of the world including the United Kingdom, Iran, Africa, and more. 

Popularity of Rusks in India:

Rusks hold a special spot in the hearts of many Indians- a spot that can't be taken over by any other thing. Why this popularity though? Well, there are a few reasons for the popularity of rusks. Firstly, the affordability of rusk. In a country where money is akin to God, keeping things affordable is one of the best strategies to get a lot of sales.  Secondly, there's a wide range of eggless rusk options available- something that a lot of people can appreciate.  And truly, if rusks had eggs and were not this affordable, most people would've avoided them. In India, the most affordable rusk can be as 'cheap' as Rs 2/piece, in fact, you may even find something below Rs 2.  While other tea-time snacks have become more expensive over time, rusks have not. They still continue to be pocket-friendly and delicious so that anyone and everyone can enjoy them. 

Conclusion

The kinds of rusks available in India cater for all kinds of taste buds, making it a must-have for tea time. Right from plain rusks to the delicious 'elaichi' (cardamom) rusks, you can find something that will suit your palate perfectly. You can eat them on their own or with other amazing options such as honey. And don't forget, with a piping cup of masala chai too. For people who are looking for a rusk option that is hygienic, tasty, and comes in many different tastes and even a low-sugar version, then do consider looking for Frontier rusk online, where you can find delicious rusks by the century-old Frontier Biscuits.