Step into the vibrant world of flavors, aromas, and culinary stories with Epicurean Mosaic. Here, we celebrate the rich tapestry of global and local cuisines, uncovering the cultural threads, hidden gems, and unique experiences that make each dish a story worth savoring. From bustling street food corners to elegant dining tables, from timeless recipes to modern culinary innovations, Epicurean Mosaic is your guide to exploring the diversity, creativity, and soul of food—one bite at a time.
A visit to Delhi led to a memorable Bengali dining experience, with Sorshe Ilish stealing the spotlight. This iconic dish, featuring Hilsa fish in a mustard gravy, symbolizes Bengal's culinary heritage and cultural traditions. Its unique blend of flavors evokes a sensory journey through the rich tapestry of Bengali cuisine.
The author enthusiastically recommends BBQ Nation, a restaurant in New Delhi that offers on-table grilling, with an array of starters, mains, desserts, and drinks. They praise the lively and welcoming ambiance, quality food variety from tikkas to biryanis, hands-on grilling experience, attentive service, and reasonable pricing. They highlighted their satisfaction with the restaurant's 'unlimited' starters, flavorful main course options, delightful desserts, and an exceptional kitchen tour.
On a summer day, I reminisced about a culinary adventure at Oh! Calcutta in Kolkata, where I first tasted Nolen Gurer Ice Cream, a delicacy that combines the rich flavor of Nolen Gur, a traditional Bengali jaggery. This creamy dessert, with its complex sweetness and artisanal preparation, represents the essence of Bengali cuisine, celebrating the region's heritage and seasonal treasures. Food, indeed, transcends sustenance.
Today marked the start of Vikrami Samvat and Navaratri, a Hindu festival. Amid celebrations, I received a surprise from my colleague Ali Abdul Salam: Basbousa, a delicious Middle Eastern dessert. Originating in Egypt, it's made of semolina, sugar, and coconut, soaked in fragrant syrup. This treat embodies Middle Eastern culinary tradition and the joy of sharing food.
Quzi is a traditional Iraqi dish celebrated for its tender lamb, fragrant rice, raisins, and almonds, embodying the rich culinary heritage of Iraq. Often served during special occasions, it pairs well with mezze, enhancing the dining experience. Quzi is a dish of flavor and tradition, perfect for sharing and celebrating.
Masgouf, an iconic grilled fish dish, embodies the rich flavours and cultural significance of Iraqi cuisine. With roots tracing back to ancient Mesopotamia, this beloved tradition is celebrated for its simplicity, tantalizing aroma, and role in fostering social bonds. Its enduring legacy continues to captivate food enthusiasts worldwide.
Sugarcane juice, known as "ganne ka ras" in Hindi, holds a rich history, medicinal properties, and cultural significance. Its extraction process and ancient roots, dating back to Indian and Southeast Asian civilizations, resonate through time. The spread of sugarcane cultivation reflects its global appeal, while its diverse benefits and traditional allure continue to captivate enthusiasts worldwide.
Haji Zbala Juice Shop, located on Baghdad’s Al Rasheed Street, has been serving grape juice since 1900. The street is a symbol of the city’s rich cultural heritage, attracting historical figures and boasting Baghdad’s first cinema. The shop’s secret grape juice recipe, sourced from the Zagros Mountains, encapsulates over 100 years of history. Its traditional architectural features stand as a testament to Baghdad’s enduring legacy.
The samosa, a beloved Indian snack, has a complex and cosmopolitan history that traces back to Central Asia as "Samsa" in the 10th century. Over time, it evolved in India to suit local tastes, with fillings and cooking techniques varying regionally. As a result of Indian diaspora and British influence, samosas have become a global culinary treasure, each version reflecting the unique flavors and traditions of its adopted home.
In a bustling Baghdad marketplace, the rich aroma of Pacha introduced a traditional Iraqi dish renowned for its cultural significance. Made from sheep's head and trotters, Pacha reflects resourceful cooking and embodies community and celebration in Iraq. It symbolises hospitality and connection to heritage, offering a unique dining experience that transcends mere sustenance, representing resilience and the enduring strength of Iraqi culture across time.
