My story begins with Aloo Gobi….
Read MorePhoto (c) Camille Becerra
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Baked Masala Fish
"The feeling of holiday, slow ripples in a boat
That warm summer day, fishermen at work,
Lunch beckons, just as the catch comes in
So fresh, the fish almost seem to smirk!
Spiced & roasted, ready in minutes ten
Flaky goodness, the devours the best of you,
Ah, if only day we ate this well everyday
A fish, a boat & a wide ocean blue!"
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Dinner Under the Bridges (DUTB) - A Photo Essay
Chocolate Coconut Atta Cake4
Chocolate Coconut Atta Pound Cake
"Bakes brown & moist, this loaf for morning tea,
With coconut & a crunch, no sampling, gotta have a whole piece.
Atta takes over that dreaded flour, healthier, but tastes just as good,
Experiments in the kitchen, oh! aren't they fun with food!"
Go ahead, get that apron on, and put on your baking shoes,
If you're feeling down today, this will drive away those weekday woes.."
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Sevai Poha1
Spicy Vermicelli Poha
"Breakfast of champions, this gotta be
Flavourful, and packed with nutrients you cannot see..
A warm comforting bowlful, or some quick spooned bites
Putting the muffin aside? Yes, you just might!
Inspired by home, and the bright summer sun
Perfect for meatless monday, or after that morning run,
It's vegan, but fancy a dollop of yogurt? Feel free
Specially if you're a spice wimp, like me!
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West Elm Pop-Up Dinner : KYC Dinner Series
KYC [Kay. Vai. See] - Know.Your.Client. A common phrase in the Investment Banking world that refers to knowing detailed information about who you do business with. In our world, it is simply knowing who stirred the curry.
Last week, we launched the 29. KYC Dinner Series. A series of dinners focussed on learning, interacting, collaborating, sharing and of course...eating. Our first dinner was held with our favorites - the ever creative team at West Elm Market in Dumbo, Brooklyn - a spot that all food, condiments or table/dining ware fanatics like myself must must check out! Warning : it's hard to leave the store empty handed.
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Summer Secrets : A Pop-Up SupperClub
It's been a while since I wrote about an event. I must be busy.
Someone asked me today whether my events are getting easier [and better] as I host more and more of them. It got me thinking about my first popup just a year ago. And boy (if I may say so myself), have I improved. From struggling to fill 10 seats, to 20 spots going off in a flash within 48 hours, I am inclined to think I must be doing something right. And learning. Still learning.
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West Elm Pop-Up : A Dinner Recap
The idea was born, the time came, and just as quickly, it was all over. But not for nothing.
Two months of hard work paid off last night, when 29. hosted it's first ever Supperclub dinner inside the West Elm Chelsea home-store in New York! 15 guests were treated to, apart from my non-stop banter, a tasting menu inspired by Indian cuisine. The story behind it all? What is 'home' to me. Oh, and if it's not already hard enough playing host + chef, I was also trying to be the event photographer!
Read MoreGoodbye 2014 : A Food Photo Essay
It's the 29th! What better a date than this to recap the 29. endeavors in 2014.
2014 was a special year for me. I completed my first full year as a chef. Yay! Swapping careers took a while, and despite the many times when I questioned the decision, I am happy to report that I am indeed exhilarated. This year was about growth, learning, accomplishments, partnerships and tiny milestones that mean a lot, yet keep me humble. The only drawback of being your own boss is that there is no team to throw a holiday party with! But I'd like to believe that I'm in part celebrating with hundreds of new friends I made in 2014. Wherever in the world they might be. (Are you listening folks?)
Read MoreSummer Story - A Photo Essay
Every summer has a story. Mine is soaked in spice, color & laughter.
Yes, it may not be over, but the end of warm months is nigh. And before I go on holiday, I want to leave you with glimpses of some of my past dinners. The flowers, berries, sunny days and sweet compliments sure inspired me to roll out one event after another. And with that came many a new dish. Some good, some amazing and those that just got by. But each plate was a learning experience.
"It starts with the lists, grueling with many a slip...
On to the little wins, that welcome the guests as they step in...
I might be the host of the night, but it's the food that steals the show at every bite
And sometimes I am caught in a moment deep, or a note that makes me weep!
And when the sweet does come into sight, you gotta see the guest's plight!
Hopeful, happy or just hungry, whatever your emotional yearning may be
Don't wait for a friend or two, come join my table already will you!"