The inaugural day of Siyahi’s Mantles of Myth Festival, held recently at Diggi Palace, Jaipur, witnessed a unique event — a cooking demonstration by designer Wendell Rodricks, art critic Alka Panda and textiles scholar Paola Manfredi.
The lunch, sponsored by VN Dalmia of Leonardo Olive Oil, was an attempt at showcasing the versatility and health benefits of olive oil. According to Dalmia, “Olive oil is very healthy. You need just one-third the amount of regular cooking oil, and it also goes well with Indian cooking.”
Alka Pande, helped by designer Wendell Rodericks, cooked up a simple and aromatic penne with a basil, parmesan and garlic sauce. Paola made penne alla puttanesca, which was lightly spiced with parseley, basil and olives.
The buffet lunch comprising Rajasthani specialities had all been cooked in olive oil! The jalebis, especially, had everyone licking at their fingers and going back for second helping.