Podi Cream Cheese Bagel? Starbucks India Spices Up American Cuisine And Internet Got Opinions

What happens when you add a Desi touch to American cuisine? Starbucks India has the answer, with their not-so-new offering that’s been making waves online, setting tongues wagging about its unique flavour. What’s causing this stir, you wonder? It’s none other than the ‘Podi Cream Cheese Bagel,’ introduced around October last year, showcasing the coffeehouse’s fusion of South Indian spices with a Western staple. Recently, an image of this intriguing creation popped up on ‘X,’ sparking lively discussions.

For those not in the know, a bagel and cream cheese is an iconic American combo, featuring a sliced bagel slathered with cream cheese. The combination of the savoury bagel with the creamy, slightly tangy cream cheese offers a harmonious and satisfying flavour profile. Now, ‘Podi’ is a blend commonly found in South Indian cuisine, comprising ground dry spices like dried chilis, black gram, chickpeas, salt, and sesame seeds.

So, Starbucks India decided to blend these two culinary worlds, infusing the cream cheese spread with a spicy kick on the bagel.

Also Read: ‘Chikki Donut’: Tim Hortons ‘Whitewashing’ Diwali Sweets Has Desis Saying ‘Leave Us Alone’

And the moment ‘X’ user @nishanth_who shared an image of this treat from Starbucks, accompanied by the caption, “I have seeen things you people wouldn’t believe…,” it immediately captured the imagination of netizens.

Now, for those wary of April Fools’ Day pranks, falling today on April 1, sorry to burst your bubble, but this is no joke, much to the dismay of many hopeful commenters.

“Please tell me this is an april fools joke,” pleaded one. Another lamented, “What a terrible day to be able to see”. “Though the idea of it seems nice, the execution wasn’t that great. It tasted below normal/ boring,” remarked the third.

Also Read: Woman Dips Bagel In Seawater For ‘Salty Flavour’ And We Can’t Believe Our Eyes

Meanwhile, alongside the ‘Podi Cream Cheese Bagel,’ priced at Rs. 330, Starbucks India also unveiled the ‘Baked Veggie Bagel’ and ‘Double Egg Bagel’ on their menu.