The recently concluded 31st Ahaar in Pragati Maidaan, New Delhi was a 5 day annual event which is usually organized in the month of march by Govt. of India’s food ministry. It’s the largest business fair where exhibitors of hospitality sector from all over the world showcase their products such as food, processed foods and beverages, commercial crockery, cutlery and glassware, commercial food equipments etc for B2B consumers. All in all a massive exhibition which any hotel industry patron does not miss.
Canada’s first participation at this event was in 2010 which has been a joint effort of Canadian consulate in Chandigarh and Agriculture and Agri foods Canada. This year our team was invited over at their Canadian pavilion at Ahaar to cover the high quality agriculture products such as Maple syrups, gluten-free products, seafood, juices, cereals, flax products, dried fruits and much more.
In addition, live cooking demonstrations were held every day by award-winning chef Mr Sabyasachi Gorai who cooked up some delectable dishes using these products as ingredients. The cooking session was divided in 2 phases and in the first session we served a BANANA SMOOTHIE, prepared with yoghurt and chia seeds. With that chef made us try a nicely prepared RICE CONDE in which Arborio rice topped with walnuts and apple juice infused berries. It tasted like our own desi kheer with a twist. The second session pampered our taste buds a little more. Chef Saby prepared a delicious CHICKEN MAC and CHEESE in a saucy gravy using maple syrup, ginger garlic , chilies and a touch of star anise. It was mildly spiced, a little sweet because of the syrup and a simple preparation which was relished by one and all, accompanied with macaroni and mozzarella cheese. Our meal ended with a mouth-watering dessert, custard with berry compote with a puff pastry. Each and every dish reflected the purity of the ingredient used which were certainly of top class quality.
These high quality products are from leading Canadian companies like Alberta agriculture and forestry, Citadel, Mera foods, Cattle Boyz food, Crofters organic, Lazer enterprise and many more renowned Canadian brands who are now exploring partnership opportunities with Indian companies in the agriculture and agri food sector. One may find these products in top grocery stores like , Nature’s basket, Le marche, Foodhall etc.
