Hyderabad, Dec. 25 -- As Hyderabad celebrates Christmas today, the mood is festive with fairy lights and classic red and white decorations. Just like every other festival in India, food is the heart of Christmas too. While plum cake receives all the attention at this time of year, rose cookies are a snack that steals the show in many South Indian homes, including those in Hyderabad.

Delicate, crisp, and intricately shaped like flowers, these sweet snacks are sold all year round but are a special holiday staple, made in kitchens across Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Telangana. Beyond their crunchy texture, rose cookies carry with them memories of family traditions, the aroma of freshly fried treats, and the joy of sharing homemade delights with ...