Food from India's north-eastern region is a unique blend of mild and spicy flavours, and the Meghalaya Kitchen pop-up is here to showcase it all. Hosted by Chef Tanisha Phanbuh of Tribal Gourmet, the pop-up is taking place at The Park in Connaught Place, Delhi NCR, from 14th to 21st April 2023. The cuisine of Meghalaya, which is heavily influenced by tribal culture, features the use of indigenous ingredients like bamboo shoots, fermented soybeans, and a wide range of aromatic herbs and spices. Slow-cooking with local herbs and spices imparts a rich and smoky flavour to the dishes.
Phanbuh, who hails from Shillong and was a contestant on MasterChef India season six, has conceptualised the menu to include umami-rich dishes from the northeastern state. The selection ranges from traditional dishes like Doh Jem and Shana Kulai, an assortment of chutneys with potatoes, and Ja Bowl to gourmet preparations like tomato fish curry with perilla. There are two kinds of chicken dishes too - Khasi Fried Chicken (KFC) and Bhoot Jalokia Chicken Wings. While both the chicken dishes hit the right chord with us, Bhoot Jalokia Chicken Wings gets our vote.
The highlight of the dessert section is a tea panna cotta made with the sweetish, fleshy fruit named Sohiong, found in the Khasi and Jaintia hills. It is streaked with a jam made from the same fruit and topped with crunchy puffed rice.
Tribal Gourmet, Phanbuh's culinary business, serves as a forum for knowledge about northeast delicacies on Instagram (@tribalgourmet) and hosts pop-ups at restaurants throughout Delhi under the same name.
Where: The Park Hotel, Connaught Place, New Delhi
When: 14th - 21st April 2023; 07 pm to 11.30 pm
Cost: Rs 4000 approx. for two
Call to book - 965443309, 9654203076