Epicurean Mosaic is a celebration of flavours, aromas, and the stories behind them. Here, food becomes a cultural map—revealing hidden gems, culinary traditions, and personal encounters that give each dish its soul. From bustling street corners to elegant tables, from heirloom recipes to modern interpretations, this is a journey through cuisine as lived experience, savoured one bite at a time.
While on duty at Jharkhand, the writer frequently visited Kuru and discovered a popular sweetmeat, Chhana (known locally as 'atom bombs' due to its size), which traditionally made from milk curdled by adding a sour substance. Despite its evolution in other regions, Kuru stays true to its original recipe, which dates back 50-60 years. Visitors from various parts of India bring these sweets back, testifying to their popularity.
Truffles, an expensive type of subterranean fungus that grows near the roots of specific trees, are renowned in the culinary world, particularly in Europe. However, more affordable desert truffles in the Middle East and North Africa, have provided nourishment, medicinal benefits, and even aphrodisiac properties throughout history. Their cultivation remains challenging, mostly relying on natural phenomena like thunderstorms for growth. These culinary treasures have a rich history, dating back to Sumerian times, and continue to be enjoyed today in various cuisines due to their unique flavor and nutritional benefits.
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.
