Binding Agents: A Cook/Book Shop
908 Christian StreetIt's an ice cream party at Binding Agents! Join us for a summer soiree to celebrate the arrival of Malai ice cream to Philadelphia, and Founder/CEO Pooja Bavishi's book, Malai: Frozen Desserts Inspired by South Asian Flavors.
Enjoy two delectable Malai treats—Pistachio Soan Papdi Kulfi Pops and Cardamom Snickerdoodle Rose Ice Cream Sandwiches—while hearing from Bavishi about her company, ice cream, and book. She will be joined in conversation by special guest Chef Jennifer Carroll. The talk will be followed by a signing.
Guests may choose a ticket with or without a copy of the book; prices are inclusive of fees and treats. Entrance to the shop requires one step up. Please contact us at hello@bindingagentsphilly.com with any questions or accessibility needs; we'd be happy to help.
About the Book
Learn to create frozen desserts at home with this first-of-its-kind South Asian-inspired ice cream cookbook.
Pooja Bavishi, the founder of acclaimed Malai ice cream, shares the secrets behind Malai’s beloved flavors, including Rose with Cinnamon Roasted Almonds, Mango & Cream, and Coffee Cardamom.
From ice cream bars and cones to pies, cakes, and cookies, this storied collection of 100 recipes, including both dairy and dairy-free options, will transform your at-home desserts with sweet, spiced, and flavorful frozen treats.
Malai is a delicious exploration where personal stories and cherished flavor memories are woven into every recipe. The recipes are simple to follow, making it easy to create high-quality ice creams and frozen desserts at home, with tips on essential tools and ingredients for consistently delicious results. Each recipe features the vibrant flavors and ingredients of South Asian cuisine, showcasing Malai’s signature repertoire—cardamom, rose, almond, pepper, mango, chai, orange, lychee, fennel, and saffron.
About Pooja Bavishi
Pooja Bavishi is the founder and CEO of Malai, an acclaimed New York-based ice cream company and scoop shop specializing in innovative flavors infused with traditional South Asian ingredients. Inspired by the spices of her childhood—ginger, rose petals, fennel, saffron, and cardamom—Pooja opened Malai in 2015 to offer a unique ice cream experience that blends her rich culinary heritage with everyone’s favorite frozen dessert. She has since won the Food Network’s Chopped Sweets competition in March 2020, was recognized as one of Inc. magazine’s Female Founders 100 in October 2020, and was named a Tory Burch Foundation Fellow in 2018. Pooja holds a BA from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, an MS from the London School of Economics, and an MBA from NYU’s Stern School of Business.
About Jennifer Carroll
Chef Jennifer Carroll is a culinary powerhouse celebrated for her remarkable talents showcased on Bravo's Top Chef, where she's been a finalist and two-time all-star. With Carroll Couture Cuisine, her experiential, consulting, and catering company, she crafts unforgettable culinary moments through intimate dinners, cooking classes, food tours, and brand partnerships. Co-founding the Sisterly Love Collective, she champions women in the culinary world. Subscribe to her Cooking Community on Patreon. Carroll Couture Cuisine, meanwhile, offers bespoke services, educational experiences, and custom partnerships, supporting charitable causes like The American Brain Foundation and Alex’s Lemonade Stand.
Wed, Jul 16, 2025 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Binding Agents: A Cook/Book Shop
908 Christian Street
Binding Agents is Philly's bookshop for cooks and eaters. Located in South Philly’s culinary epicenter, the 9th Street Italian Market, we’re your go-to source for new cookbooks and food-focused reads, plus gifts and goods for making, serving and enjoying. We’re independent, women-owned, fun & funky. Learn more at bindingagentsphilly.com.
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