The Zing-World of Flavours restaurant at Hyatt Place Kathmandu is hosting a not-to-be-missed food festival event from April 28 to May 6, 2023. Named “The Andaz-E-Awadh”, this festival is dedicated to promoting the flavors and aromas of Lucknowi cuisine, with celebrity chef Meraj Ul Haque at the helm.
Chef Haque is a renowned culinary expert, hailing from the famous Lucknow Gharana of the Qureshi clan. He has worked in various countries across the globe, including the USA, UK, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Capetown, and Dhaka. He is particularly known for his North Indian delicacies and his innovative kebab recipes, which have won him much acclaim among Bollywood celebrities in India.
During the Andaz E Awadh food festival, guests can indulge in a plethora of delectable dishes from Lucknowi cuisine, including Chef Haque’s signature Murgh Kesari Biryani and Shahi Galawat Kebab. Other must-try dishes on the festival’s menu include Burani Raita, Mughlai Paratha, and Gosht Taar Korma, among many others.
1. Sarso Macchi Tikka Kebabs
Sarso Macchi Tikka Kebabs, a culinary masterpiece by Chef Meraj Ul Haque, are a truly flavorful treat. This dish features succulent pieces of fish marinated in a blend of mustard, or “Sarso” in Hindi, along with a delectable combination of mustard sauce, mustard seeds, yoghurt, and a range of exotic spices and seasonings.
The result is a dish that boasts a rich and creamy texture with tender, melt-in-your-mouth pieces of fish that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Chef Haque’s expertise and innovative approach to kebab making have resulted in a dish that is bursting with flavor and that is sure to delight foodies and seafood lovers alike.
2. Papad Paneer Tikka
Unlike traditional paneer tikka, this Papad Paneer Tikka, appetizer features a crispy papad crust that perfectly complements the juicy and tender paneer inside. Coated with a tantalizing blend of spices such as salt, pepper, garam masala, chili powder, fenugreek powder, yoghurt, and cream, the paneer is then cooked in a tandoor oven to perfection.
The result is a dish that boasts a soft and succulent texture with a mild yet satisfying spicy flavor that is sure to delight your taste buds. So if you’re in the mood for something truly special, be sure to try the Papad Paneer Tikka at the Andaz-E-Awadh food festival and experience the culinary expertise of Chef Meraj Ul Haque for yourself.
3. Aalu Anjeer Ke Tinke
Aalu Angeer Ke Tinke is a truly unique dish that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. Served on a stick, this dish features tender potatoes and succulent figs that have been marinated in a delectable blend of balsamic vinegar, red chili, cardamom powder, pepper corn, and oil before being pan-fried to perfection.
The result is a dish that boasts a delightful crunch and an irresistible texture, with the sweet and tangy flavor of the figs perfectly complementing the savory and spicy notes of the potatoes. Resembling kebabs in appearance, this dish is just as delicious, if not better, than its meaty counterparts.
4. Ran-E-Murgh
Ran-E-Murgh is a chicken dish that has gained international recognition after winning a culinary competition between India and Pakistan. This Lucknowi-style dish boasts a delightful aroma that is sure to entice your senses. Unlike typical spicy dishes, Ran-E-Murgh is seasoned with a blend of almond paste, yogurt, seasonings, and saffron, giving it a unique and rich taste.
The dish features succulent chicken thighs that have been expertly cooked to perfection, resulting in tender and juicy meat that is bursting with flavor. While the dish has a mild level of spice, its true allure lies in its complex blend of seasonings and aromatic ingredients.
5. Galouti Kebab
The Galouti Kebab is a highly acclaimed dish that has been a favorite of the Nawabs for centuries. This rich meat dish boasts a creamy and flavorful texture that simply melts in your mouth. Although the top part of the circular kebab may appear seared and burned, the meat is incredibly tender and falls apart with each bite.
Served alongside a unique roti with a subtly sweet taste, the Galouti Kebab is the perfect combination of flavors and textures. The rich and flavorful kebab pairs perfectly with the roti, making for a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
6. Taar Korma
Taar Korma is a traditional Mughlai dish that highlights the liberal use of nut pastes, saffron, and the “dum” style of cooking. This dish is known for its use of baby lamb meat, which is perfectly cooked to perfection. The layers of spice in this dish make it a truly unforgettable experience for your taste buds.
The fragrant aroma of the spices combined with the creamy and rich flavor of the gravy creates a silky and satisfying mouthfeel. The tender meat falls apart in your mouth, making each bite a heavenly experience. To complement this dish, it is served with sweet roti, creating the perfect balance of flavors.
7. Kesari Biryani
Kesari Biryani is a Lucknowi-style dish that is cooked using the popular “dum” technique. The biryani is cooked in an earthen pot and sealed with a layer of flour to prevent steam from escaping. The heat and steam gradually cook the biryani, creating a delectable aroma and taste.
The biryani is seasoned with various spices and seasonings, with saffron adding a distinct and vibrant color to the dish. The serving size is quite generous, and the taste is heavenly. Pairing the biryani with the sweet and savory Raita elevates the flavors to new heights.
8. Dessert
No meal is complete without a sweet ending, and the Andaz E Awadh food festival didn’t disappoint in this regard. The dessert served was a delightful combination of Shahi Tukda with Anjeer Ki Firni topped with Khajur Badam Halwa.
The dessert had a subtle sweetness that lingered on the taste buds long after the last bite. The texture was incredibly soft and juicy, with a creamy richness that added to the indulgence. This dessert is a must-try for those with a sweet tooth, but it is sure to be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of their preferences.
The Andaz-E-Awadh food festival at the Zing-World of Flavours restaurant is a must-visit event for foodies and anyone seeking an unforgettable culinary experience. With renowned celebrity chef Meraj Ul Haque at the helm, guests can indulge in a plethora of delectable dishes from Lucknowi cuisine, including his signature Sarso Macchi Tikka Kebabs, Papad Paneer Tikka, Aalu Anjeer Ke Tinke, Ran-E-Murgh, Galouti Kebab, Taar Korma, Kesari Biryani, and many more. The festival promises to be a feast for the senses, with live performances and a vibrant atmosphere that will transport guests to the heart of Lucknow. So, if you’re looking for a culinary adventure, make sure to check out the Andaz-E-Awadh food festival and experience the magic of Lucknowi cuisine.