Relish with Rampur

“Rampuri cuisine is one of the unexplored Nawabi cuisines of India. Though the cuisine’s history has never been documented in books,the recipes have been passed on from generation to generation,though mostly confined to parts of western Uttar Pradesh,” says chef Quereshi. Having worked with elder khansaamas,Quereshi is now taking the cuisine across the country by putting together Rampuri festivals at various Hometel properties. “Rampuri food has been heavily influenced by Kashmiri,Awadhi as well as Hyderabadi cuisine. In fact,it is a perfect blend of them all,” adds the chef who will roll out delicacies from the area as part of a daily dinner buffet (Rs 375 plus taxes).

The menu offers a range of never-tried-before fare such as Mausami Subziyon Ka Nichore,Khumani ke Kebab and Kathal Ke Seekh. “While most would associate Nawabi cuisine with just non-vegetarian delights,it isn’t so in Rampuri cuisine,” explains the chef. Also while Lucknowi and Hyderabadi meals are fairly gravy-driven,Rampuri cuisine makes the most of lesser known vegetables and khara masala. “We use a lot of dry spices and herbs and the food isn’t too creamy either,” he points out. The Biryani we tucked into was extremely flavoursome and it was interesting to try vegetarian starters like Dahi Gobhi Ke Kebab and Arbi ke Seekh. But the desserts are the cuisine’s main highlights. There’s Hari Mirch Ka Halwa that’s actually made from green chillies and the subtle spicy flavour clubbed with the sweetness is a welcome treat. If you thought that is unique,try the Gosht Ka Halwa,which came about because the Nawabs of Rampur wanted meat to be a part of every meal. The dish comprises mince meat with khoya,a surprise you can make the most of. “There’s so much more to Rampuri cuisine and we will keep changing the menu everyday to offer diners the best of them all,” Chatterjee signs off.

The food festival is on till August 29 from 7 pm to 11 pm.

Meal for two: Rs 750 (excluding taxes)

Contact: 0172-4299999