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Rediscovering India’s Forgotten Culinary Treasures: A Journey Through Authentic Delights

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1 year ago

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Indian cuisine is a rich storehouse of flavors, intricacies, and a deep cultural heritage. Amid the well-known dishes like butter chicken, samosas, and biryani that have gained international acclaim, there lies a hidden treasure of lesser-known culinary delights waiting to be unearthed. In this article, we embark on a culinary journey through India to rediscover forgotten culinary gems that deserve a brighter spotlight.

  1. Beef Ularthiyathu – Kerala:

Beef Ularthiyathu is a delectable and fiery cuisine that originates from Kerala. This culinary masterpiece features tender beef pieces that are slow-cooked with a medley of aromatic spices, including black peppercorns, curry leaves, and dried red chilies. The outcome is a dish that is flavorful, rich, and just the right amount of spicy. It is a must-try for anyone looking for an authentic taste of Kerala because of its powerful flavour and distinctive cooking method, which involves stirring-frying the beef until it is exquisitely caramelised.

  1. Misa Maas Pura – Northeast:

Misa Maas Pura is a delectable dish originating from the northeastern states of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, and Manipur. This traditional delicacy of misa maas, meaning shrimp, showcases the culinary artistry of the region. Known as ‘grilled shrimp’ in English, this exquisite creation is frequently eaten with rice. It has a delicious medley of flavours. Shrimps are marinated in a mixture of salt, turmeric, and chilli powder before being gently steamed in a banana leaf until they are cooked to perfection. The star ingredient, steamed prawns, is added to the savoury mixture of onions, ginger, garlic, tomatoes, and simmered to provide spicy and smokey undertones. This dish’s amazing taste showcases culinary expertise.

  1. Kuzhi Paniyaram – Tamil Nadu:

Kuzhi Paniyaram, a traditional South Indian delight from Tamil Nadu, is a dish of subtle elegance. It is made with fermented rice and urad dal batter and resembles charming dumplings. The “kuzhi,” or batter-filled moulds, are placed on a hot pan to produce a distinctive crispy-soft texture. In the past, it was a popular street food snack and was offered in Tamil Nadu’s households on important occasions. Today, this dish remains a hidden gem, cherished in traditional South Indian restaurants and homes. Its unique flavour combination, which combines the sourness of fermented batter with the sweetness of coconut and jaggery, is a trip that is well worth exploring.

  1. Chakhwi – Tripura:

Chakhwi is the representative dish of Tripura, made of bamboo shoot and pork. It relies on two essential ingredients – Khar and Aayong (a type of rice powder). Khar is typically made from sun-dried banana peel ashes, which are carefully strained through pure water over a long period of time to produce a rich, dark brown liquid with a strong astringent flavour. This intricate preparation of Chakhwi, particularly the making of its key component, Khar, renders it a time-consuming dish primarily reserved for special events. While many Chakhwi recipes highlight the use of indigenous vegetables such as banana stem and ash gourd, they frequently incorporate ingredients like pork, fish, and the renowned Berma to enhance and diversify the flavours.

  1. Shufta Kanaguchhi – Jammu and Kashmir:

Presenting a culinary masterpiece adorned with precious morel mushrooms, Shufta Kanaguchhi is a cherished Kashmiri dessert and embodies the essence of tradition. In order to make this delectable dessert, dry fruits must first be soaked in water. Pan-fried paneer, dried coconut, a variety of flavorful spices, and a dash of sugar are added afterward. It is an easy-to-prepare dish, and because of its effectiveness, it is especially served in the winter, when people appreciate its richness and the warmth it gives off to the body.

  1. Jadoh – Meghalaya:

‘Ja,’ meaning rice, and ‘Doh,’ meaning meat, is a traditional Khasi cuisine. Similar to the popular biryani from North India, this culinary treasure combines the flavours of rice and meat with a unique spice blend and little to no oil. Among the locals, this dish enjoys its own unique popularity, as it includes the use of blood in the cooking process. The type of blood used in this meal is carefully chosen by Khasi chefs in order to perfect it because they are aware of how it can either improve or detract from the flavour. This meal, which is usually eaten in the morning during Khasi celebrations, gives the rice a unique metallic undertone as a result of the addition of either pork or chicken blood.

  1. Chakki ki Shaak – Gujarat:

Chakki ki Shaak, a traditional Gujarati delight, is crafted from whole wheat flour, yogurt, and spices. Beginning with the kneading of dough, it ends with thin, browned discs cooked on a hot pan. These are then crumbled into a tomato-based gravy infused with onions, garlic, and spices. As they simmer, flavors meld, and the dish thickens.  It’s a special combination of wheat flour and savoury spices that delivers a tasty and comfortable experience when served with rice or roti and garnished with coriander.

  1. Tavsali – Goa:

Tavsali, a beloved Goan delicacy, is a unique cake made from an unexpected ingredient – cucumbers.  Surprisingly, neither baking powder nor refined flour (maida) is used in its making. Tavsali is unique because it uses ‘Tavshe,’ a seasonal cucumber that grows in abundance during the monsoon in areas like Konkan, Goa, and Karwar. This ‘Tavshe’ cucumber, a regional gem, sets the stage for a unique culinary experience. Tavsali is made of rava (sooji or semolina), coconut, jaggery, and tavshe. It can be baked or steam-cooked. 

  1. Aktori – Himachal Pradesh:

Aktori, a cherished delicacy from the northern state of Himachal Pradesh, carries the essence of celebration and festivity. This culinary wonder is easy to make and beckons one with its beauty. The heart of Aktori lies in the harmonious combination of buckwheat and wheat flour, which results in a batter that is pan-fried to perfection and has a consistency similar to pancake batter.  It is topped with honey and ghee to elevate this creation, inspired by mountains. Aktori is a real treat to savour since each bite is filled with the soothing, sweet flavours of the Himalayas.

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The Daily Darren: The Elton John Doc, Porsche Hits the Waves, Dua Lipa’s Language of Love & More

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1 week ago

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11/14/2024

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Welcome back to The Daily Darren! In a world overflowing with endless choices, I’m here to cut through the clutter and zero in on what truly matters. Whether it’s an emerging trend, a tucked-away gem, or that one product everyone’s buzzing about, this column is all about simplifying your journey to the best of the best so you can spend less time scrolling and more time enjoying. Think of it as your personal guide to what’s fresh, inspiring, and worth a second look.

Elton John: Never Too Late
I had the privilege of attending the LA screening of Elton John: Never Too Late with the icon himself at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures recently. Directed by R.J. Cutler and David Furnish, this deeply personal documentary reveals not just Elton’s extraordinary career, but his personal journey, showcasing a rare vulnerability as he opens up about the loneliness he experienced at the height of fame. The film also covers his transformation through sobriety and finding love with David Furnish, which has been a cornerstone of his happiest chapter. Combining archival footage, exclusive interviews, and intimate moments, Never Too Late captures Elton’s triumphs and struggles, highlighting his impact on LGBTQ+ rights. Streaming on Disney+ starting December 13, 2024.

Porsche x Almond Surfboards: The Ultimate California Dream Collaboration
When two legends from the same sphere collide, magic happens. Porsche has partnered with Almond Surfboards for a limited-edition collection that celebrates the blend of iconic Southern California surf culture and Porsche’s 1960s vibe. The surfboards come in classic 911 colors—Bahama Yellow, Polo Red, Irish Green, and the famous Pink Pig racing livery. Each board is numbered and customizable, handcrafted in Costa Mesa. The collection also includes laid-back apparel like t-shirts, hoodies, trucker caps, and keychains. Available now at select Porsche Design stores, Almond Surf Shop, and online.

Dua Lipa Speaks the Language of Love in Collab with Belgian Star Pierre De Maere
Despite being snubbed by the Grammys for the 2025 lineup, Dua Lipa is undeterred. Her latest collaboration with Belgian artist Pierre de Maere, “These Walls”, dropped this weekend and it’s already on repeat. The song effortlessly mixes English and French, with lyrics like “Ces murs sont faits de verre, mais ils ne se brisent jamais” (These walls are made of glass, but they never break). The smooth synths and reflective vibe make it the perfect late-night listen. Featured on Dua’s newly released album Radical Optimism, the song explores emotional barriers and the desire to break free.

VISO PROJECT: Dumbo
For art and design lovers, VISO PROJECT is one to watch. Based in Madrid and New York, this brand combines high-end design and home décor, showcasing luxury, handmade pieces and global craftsmanship. Their Dumbo location, which functions as both a gallery and shop, features exclusive limited-edition collaborations, luxurious blankets, and beautifully crafted porcelain. With a focus on artisanal skills and sustainable production, VISO PROJECT offers a collection of timeless pieces to elevate any space.

Mamie Italian Kitchen in West Hollywood
Ultra-hyped restaurants often leave me skeptical, but Mamie Italian Kitchen in West Hollywood truly lives up to its buzz. This classic Italian deli offers an authentic taste of Italy right in LA. The standout? Their schiacciata—a flatbread with a perfect balance of crunch and chewiness, baked fresh daily. It serves as the base for sandwiches stacked with fresh ingredients like prosciutto, mozzarella, and marinated veggies. The Verona sandwich is a must-try—Prosciutto Di Parma, burrata, sun-dried tomato, fresh basil, and arugula—absolutely divine.

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Celebrity Surprise: Mindy Kaling Reveals Birth of Third Baby This Year

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5 months ago

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06/25/2024

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In an industry where surprises are few and far between, Mindy Kaling has managed to keep one of the biggest secrets of the year under wraps. The acclaimed actress, writer, and producer stunned fans and the entertainment world alike by revealing the birth of her third child this year, a revelation that has sparked widespread excitement and curiosity.

The Big Reveal

Mindy Kaling, known for her roles in “The Office” and “The Mindy Project,” as well as her recent work on “Never Have I Ever,” took to social media to share the joyous news. In a heartfelt Instagram post, she wrote, “I’m thrilled to announce the arrival of my third baby, a beautiful addition to our family that has brought us immense joy.” Accompanied by a serene family photo, the announcement left fans in awe of her ability to maintain such privacy in her high-profile life.

Maintaining Privacy in the Public Eye

Kaling has always been private about her personal life, especially when it comes to her children. She has previously spoken about her desire to protect her kids from the limelight, allowing them to grow up out of the public eye. This latest revelation is consistent with her approach, showcasing her adeptness at balancing her public persona with her private life.

In interviews, Kaling has emphasized the importance of family and her role as a mother, often sharing her experiences and challenges. However, she has also been clear about setting boundaries to ensure her children’s privacy. This careful curation of her public image while safeguarding her personal life is a testament to her strength and determination as both a mother and a public figure.

Fans React

The reaction from fans and fellow celebrities has been overwhelmingly positive. Social media platforms have been flooded with congratulatory messages and expressions of surprise. Fellow actors and friends from Hollywood have praised Kaling for her resilience and ability to keep such a significant part of her life private. Reese Witherspoon, a close friend and collaborator, commented, “So happy for you, Mindy! Your family just got even more wonderful.”

A Look Ahead

As Kaling continues to navigate her multifaceted career, this new addition to her family marks a significant and joyous milestone. While details about the baby’s name and birth date remain undisclosed, it is clear that Kaling’s approach to motherhood is one of deep love and consideration.

Her ability to surprise the world with such monumental news speaks volumes about her control over her narrative and her priorities. As she continues to create groundbreaking content and inspire audiences, her journey as a mother adds another layer of depth to her already impressive legacy.

In an age where the private lives of celebrities are often laid bare, Mindy Kaling’s announcement is a refreshing reminder that some aspects of life are best cherished away from the spotlight. Her fans, while eager for more details, respect her decision to share this joyous news on her own terms and look forward to supporting her in her continuing endeavors both on and off screen.

As we celebrate this happy news, we also applaud Mindy Kaling for her exemplary balance of privacy and public engagement, a rare and admirable feat in today’s celebrity culture.

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Zendaya’s Stylist Exposes Fashion Industry Rejection, Sparking Dialogue on Designer Choices

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6 months ago

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05/30/2024

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In a recent revelation that sent shockwaves through the fashion world, Zendaya’s longtime stylist, Law Roach, unveiled a surprising truth about the challenges the actress faced before her rise to stardom. During an episode of “The Cutting Room Floor” podcast, Roach candidly disclosed that several renowned luxury fashion houses had turned down opportunities to dress Zendaya early in her career. Despite the rejection, Zendaya has since become a fashion icon, prompting reflection on the dynamics of celebrity fashion and the power of designer choices.

Roach’s revelation shed light on the obstacles Zendaya encountered on her journey to success. He recounted reaching out to prestigious fashion houses such as Saint Laurent, Chanel, Gucci, Valentino, and Dior, only to receive rejections based on Zendaya’s perceived lack of prominence in the industry. However, Roach emphasized that Zendaya has not forgotten these experiences, maintaining records of the snubs she received.

Despite the initial setbacks, Zendaya’s career trajectory took a remarkable turn, leading to significant achievements such as gracing the cover of American Vogue in 2017. Remarkably, she achieved this milestone without ever wearing designs from the luxury brands that had once turned her away. Roach’s revelation sparked discussions about the fairness of designer decisions and the evolving landscape of celebrity fashion.

One prevailing sentiment among industry insiders is that designers have the autonomy to choose the faces that align with their brand’s identity and values. According to ace Indian designer Raghavendra Rathore, a celebrity’s true value lies not only in their popularity but also in what they represent. Rathore advocates for collaborations with individuals who share the brand’s ethos, regardless of their fame or following.

Fashion designer Mayank Modi echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of preserving a brand’s identity and aesthetics. Modi asserted that brands have the right to select celebrities who resonate with their vision, even if it means turning down prominent figures in the industry. He underscored the significance of transparent communication and mutual respect in fostering successful partnerships.

However, some argue for a more flexible approach that embraces emerging talent and inclusivity in the fashion industry. Urvi Kothari, a South Asian art writer and curator, highlighted the recent emergence of digital creators and burgeoning designers like Nancy Tyagi, whose innovative creations have garnered attention at prestigious events like the Cannes Film Festival. Kothari emphasized the importance of collaboration and inclusivity in sustaining the luxury fashion industry’s growth and relevance.

Ultimately, the debate surrounding designer choices in dressing celebrities underscores the complex dynamics of the fashion world. While designers wield considerable influence in selecting brand ambassadors, celebrities also play a pivotal role in shaping fashion trends and narratives. As the industry continues to evolve, embracing diversity, inclusivity, and emerging talent will be crucial for driving innovation and fostering meaningful collaborations that resonate with audiences worldwide.

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