Kashmiri Pandit Culinary Heritage Shines in Delhi’s Food Scene – News18

Delhi witnessed a ‘Kashmiri food pop-up’ at Diya, the signature Indian restaurant at the Leela Ambience Gurugram Hotel & Residences, best known for its luxury and excellence in collaboration with Chef Rajni, to bring in-depth full cooking from Kashmiri Pandit Cuisine for over two weeks.

The special menu was prepared by home chef Rajni Jinsi, a homemaker who grew up in Anantnag and learnt the art of cooking from her mother. Chef Rajni was excited to dish out traditional Kashmiri Pandit cuisine delicacies during this exclusive pop-up at Diya.

The land of Kashmir is celebrated for its stunning beauty, but the true essence of Kashmiri cuisine remains shrouded in mystery for most. Delhi’s foodies enjoyed the valley’s most delicious dishes as well as a one-of-a-kind experience with Kashmiri delights. Diya, The Leela Ambience Gurugram Hotel & Residences, every month brings different cuisines from the different states of India. This November, for two weeks, the exquisite traditional Kashmiri Pandit cuisine was curated at Diya in collaboration with Chef Rajni. The patrons experienced the Indian classical instrumental music and indulged in soulful food with impeccable service in an elegant ambience.

Kashmiri pandit cuisine uses spices like saffron, fennel, ginger and asafetida, while dairy products like curd (yoghurt) and ghee (clarified butter) are used as well. Traditionally Kashmiri Pandit cuisine does not use onion and garlic, instead they use hing (asafetida) to impart flavour. Fresh vegetables and fruits like lotus stem, turnip, dried fruits like apricots, figs are often used to add sweetness or textures to the dishes. Some well-known dishes from Kashmiri Pandit cuisine include Dum Aloo, Nadur Monje, Nadur Yakhni and more. The cuisine is known for its emphasis on saffron, giving many dishes a vibrant and aromatic quality. It is a unique and delicious aspect of Kashmiri culture. The Leela Ambience Gurugram Hotel & Residences aims to bring authentic food of the Kashmiri pandits to its guests.

The Leela Ambience Gurugram Hotel & Residences was honored to partner with Chef Rajni Jinis, who showcased her culinary brilliance. “Kashmiri food pop-up” offered a regal journey through Kashmir’s rich traditions and flavors. Chef Rajni’s mastery of Kashmiri cuisine and dedication to preserving the Kashmiri heritage close to her heart promised an unforgettable dining experience.

With fresh ingredients paired with the chef’s knife and culinary skill, it was a treat for the city. Chef Rajni Jinsi, hailing from Anantnag and honed her cooking skills under the guidance of her mother, brought forth her signature flavour combinations that have whipped up a range of Kashmiri Pandit dishes using traditional techniques and the highest quality ingredients from the local markets.