Lucknowi cuisine is arguably the most rich & exotic cuisine of the country with influences from Moghalia, Awadh, Nawabi and North West Frontier cuisines. Originally from Afghanistan and Iran, this cuisine came to India once the nawabs settled in and around Lucknow.
The authenticity of the cuisine is achievedthrough a magical blend of spices and slow fire cooking, says Chef Zashimuddin, who is spearheading the fest at Spice Jar. Chef Zashimuddin, the Master Chef from The Residency Towers, Coimbatore, honed his culinary skills working with heritage Mughalai restaurants in Kolkata.
The dining experience begins with the irresistible Yakhni Shorba, a healthy & delicious mutton broth.
The non-vegetarian appetizers offer traditional delicacies like the Murgh Gilafi Kebab (Marinated chicken mince skewers), Rampuri Murgh ( Classic chicken drumsticks) & the Murgh Chops (Marinated & grilled chicken breasts); the vegetarian section is equally tempting with selections like Hara Tawa Kebab (Lentil & spinach mince), Gulnar Kebab (A vegetarian recipe which will have all the non-vegetarians asking for more), Bharwan Paneer Chingari (Stuffed cottage cheese) and Soya Bean ka Shami (Grilled soybean mince).
The chef at work is a huge draw with traditional breads such as Ulta Tawa Paratha served hot on every table.
Although the typical dum biryani of Lucknow is an all-time favorite, The Master Chef recommends the Kachchi Biryani, in which rice, chicken and a mix of aromatic spices are slow cooked together to infuse a dense flavour. The Chilman Biryani is another vegetarian must try recipe, which has black chana, corn and paneer with dry fruits added to it. The accompanying curries offer choice aplenty such as Nihari Gosht (Succulent mutton curry), Masalewali Machli (Traditional Awadhi fish preparation), Nargisi Kofta (Crusted egg dumplings in rich gravy) and Lagan Murgh (Browned chicken delicately flavoured with aromatic spices).
The vegetarian section is equally elaborate with selections like Subz Kadha Masala (Exotic vegetables with whole spices), Dal Gomti (Creamy Black Lentils), Paneer Lazzatdar and Arbi ka Salan.
Delightful desserts – classical Awadhi specialties like Shahi Tukra, Anar Zarda, Zafrani Kheer, Sheer Kurma and Sewayian sweeten the meal experience; coupled with colorful interiors, enchanting bangles and artistic mehandi designs make a memorable evening
