Rajasthan is a land of many wonders with a vibrant culture and traditions. This is well reflected in its rich cuisine. With Fairfield by Marriott Kolkata’s latest food festival, Baati, one can now experience the abundance of flavours right here in Calcutta. Curated by Chef Chetan Singh, hailing from the village of Adawala in the Ajmer district of Rajasthan, the festival comprises a comprehensive list of the most essential Rajasthani flavours. The buffet comes with a range of dishes, from cooling drinks to traditional desserts and abundant options in both vegetarian and non-vegetarian variants.
Chef Chetan Singh’s relentless pursuit of authentic flavours and traditional recipes motivated him to embark on a three-month expedition through the remote villages of Rajasthan, where he visited the kitchens of local grandmothers. He delved into the intricacies of regional farming and culinary techniques, resulting in a thorough understanding of the unique ingredients and methods that constitute Rajasthani cuisine, some of which are gradually fading from the culinary landscape. “The various regions of Rajasthan have their own unique foodscapes. While curating the menu, I tried to best represent each of these different traditions. At the same time, I concocted the recipes and ingredients in a manner that also caters to contemporary tastes and palates,” said Chef Chetan Singh.
(l-r) Dal Bati Churma, Bajre ki Khichdi, Fish Mewadi, Mutton Banjara Kebab
Dal Bati Churma: A visit to the land of the royals is incomplete without this dish and now, you can get it right here, in Calcutta! Crush up the baatis (crispy wheat rolls) and add the ghee, chili oil, dal and top it off with churma for a deliciously chatpata delight..
Bajre ki Khichdi: For a light but fulfilling dish, try this unique khichdi that is flavoursome but not overwhelmingly so.
Fish Mewadi: A specialty of the Mewar region, this dish comprises a mildly spicy and delicate curry with softly cooked fish.
Malai Ghevar and Besan Chakki: Don’t miss out on the desserts in this menu. Bite into a piece of the Malai Ghevar where fried, syrupy goodness is topped with creamy malai and roasted nuts. The Besan Chakki is the right choice for those who like their desserts mild.
Laal Maas: Perhaps one of the most well-known non-veg Rajasthani dishes, this mutton curry is light, packed with flavours and delicately spiced. The mutton pieces are wellcooked and fall off the bones..
Bajre ki Rab and Makki ki Gaat: Start your meal with these cooling welcome drinks which have a sherbet-like consistency.