The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel has started a culinary journey on the NH1. A journey that will lead us across the northern part of the country in the search of some of India’s most authentic dishes. Our third stop is in the holy city of Benaras in Uttar Pradesh. With food that has a typically robust flavour, the food from Benaras has been thoroughly misinterpreted in Delhi. This is where the eccentric genius of Executive Chef Rohit Tokhi and Chef de Cuisine Ashwani Kumar Singh comes in. Chef Ashwani actually tries to recreate what he has tasted locally and he succeeds quite beautifully. He actually brought back the famous sweets for everyone to taste from his trips to Benaras.
The festival is being hosted at their effervescent North Indian restaurant, Dilli 32 with an ambience that takes you back to the ghats of Benaras. The festival this time is being held as a buffet till 29th October, The menu is large and has some really interesting twists. We bring you the five Benarasi vegetarian dishes that you must try out at this festival.
For a feel of the authentic Benaras, check out this post on Holi in Varanasi
Tamatar Ki Chaat: One of most famous dishes from Benaras, this chaat with tang of spices is a must for an authentic Benarasi experience.
Baati Chokha: The cooking method give it it’s characteristic taste. The succulent pieces of mutton with it’s thick luscious gravy are a perfect accompaniment to this rustic dish. There is also some mashed brinjals along with a Tomato chutney and chili pickle
Choti kachori with Subzi: A simple breakfast which enthralls the hearts of many. The Kachori with the potato subzi is something that everyone in North India has definitely tried out. A simple combination which leaves a mark on our palate without heading off to complexities.
Shahi Paan: A welcome drink that will impress you with a fragrant sweetness of rose with the thick malai of the milk.
Benaras Dum Aloo: Aha the classic, Need I say more?? The perfect combination of spicy and sweet flavours.
Try these with either a Missi Roti or a plain butter Naan. Finish off with some love from the ghats of Benaras in the form of Madgal, Kheer Mohan, Parval Ki Mithai and Gud ka Kheer.
