Feast like royalty: Here’s a glimpse into the cuisines of the princely states - Hindustan Times
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Feast like royalty: Here’s a glimpse into the cuisines of the princely states

Hindustan Times | By, New Delhi
Jun 13, 2017 11:54 AM IST

In a first-of-its-kind feast, ITC Maurya, Delhi, along with the descendants of the royal masterchefs and ustads, is offering the food connoisseurs in the city, a chance to celebrate the cuisine of these princely states. Here’s what you can expect as we show you a glimpse into the cuisines of the princely states.

If you want to experience the richness and diversity of our culinary heritage, then a visit to the kitchens of the Royal Gharana would be a good idea. Each of the princely states of India such as Kangra (Himachal Pradesh), Sailana (Madhya Pradesh), Akheraj and Bhainsrorgarh (Rajasthan), Salar Jung (Hyderabad), Dogra (Jammu & Kashmir) and Rampur (Uttar Pradesh) have their own unique food history. Each state’s palate is different from the other and these princely states guard the secret recipes of their royal kitchen carefully. Along with savoury dishes, another common thread binding these states together is the tradition of serving lavish dinners over a high table.

The 10 week long affair gives you a chance to relish food like the way Maharajas and Nawabs do.
The 10 week long affair gives you a chance to relish food like the way Maharajas and Nawabs do.

In a first-of-its-kind feast, ITC Maurya, Delhi, along with the descendants of the royal masterchefs and ustads, is offering the food connoisseurs in the city a chance to celebrate the cuisines of these princely states. Here’s what you can expect as we show you a glimpse into the cuisines of the princely states:

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The Royal Kangra Dynasty

Mukundwadi
Mukundwadi

The district of Himachal Pradesh is the home to the Katoch Dynasty, which is considered to be the oldest surviving royal family in the world. The USP of the Kangra cuisine is its rich intense flavour that is obtained by slow heating of the food. Traditional meals include Dham, Madra (Sepu Badi/ Mukund Badi, Rajma), Palda (a curd-based dish for curry), mustard based raita, pulses and Meethe Chawal (sweet rice) or Mithdee (made of boondi, bread crumbs).

The Sailana Succession

Sailana Sekh Kebab Korma
Sailana Sekh Kebab Korma

Located at the border of Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, the royal family of Sailana, are the cadets of the Royal house of Jodhpur. The cuisine is predominantly Mughal but with a distinct twist, which has been customised by the royal family over the years. Dishes such as Shikampuri kebab, goolar kebabs made with figs, a dum recipe from Iran and Kaleji ka halwa can be found here.

The Akheraj Ancestry

Amla Murgh
Amla Murgh

The Royal Akheraj dynasty lies between the borders of Marwar and Mewar in Rajasthan. The cuisine is the epitome of Rajasthani cuisine. Some of the special dishes you just can’t miss out on are Hara Maans, Makki Maans Soyeta, Mangori, Rabori, Matki Maans, and Meetha Khata,.

The Bhainsrorgarh Regime

Makai Ke Kan
Makai Ke Kan

Bhainsrorgarh fort is located in the middle of two rivers Chambal and Bamani in Rajasthan. The cuisine has been curated and kept alive by the descendants of the Maharajas for years. Owing to the scarcity of water in the region, the food is cooked in such a way that it can be stored over a period of time. The meat used is either roasted or smoked. Some of the dishes are Makai ke Kan, Laal Maas and Panna Halwa.

The Rampur Reign

Bonga Nihari
Bonga Nihari

The Rampur district in Uttar Pradesh is currently under Nawab Kazim Ali Khan. The Nawabs of Rampur like to make their dishes in a clay pot using unrefined spices such as Khada masalas, cinnamon and yellow chilli. Signature dishes include Rampuri fish, Rampuri Korma, Rampuri mutton kebabs, Doodhiya biryani and adrak ka halwa. Take your pick!

The Kashmir Lineage

Mirchi Gosht
Mirchi Gosht

The royal house of Jammu and Kashmir was formed by the Hindu Dogra Rajput dynasty. The state is home to a unique style of cooking known as Wazwan. Seven dishes typically form an inseparable part of the feast - ‘Tabakh Maaz, Rogan Josh, Rista, Aab Gosh, Dhaniwal Korma, Marchwangan Korma and Gushtaba.

The Salar Jung Empire

Gosht Khada masala
Gosht Khada masala

The Salar Jung family was the royal family under Nizams in Hyderabad. This cuisine is known for its healthy elements. The USP of the cuisine is use of fresh ingredients as a souring agent in every dish. Help yourself to mouthwatering dishes such as Gosht Khada masala, Hari mirch Murgh masala, Jafrani Machli and Panner Timatari, Arbi Kalimirch.

What: India’s Royal Cuisines

Where: ITC Maurya, a Luxury Collection Hotel, New Delhi

When: On Friday and Saturday, 8 pm onwards, till 16th July

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