A deeply aromatic, spiced, and umami-rich relish inspired by ancient flavours. Gathering of Ingredients ½ cup dates, finely chopped (use less if you prefer even less sweetness) ½ cup toasted walnuts (or pine nuts, almonds) 1 tbsp fermented black garlic paste (or 1 clove roasted black garlic, mashed) 1 tbsp vinegar (red wine vinegar […]
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Hearthkeeper’s Guide to Spring Cheese & Herb Tart Gathering of Ingredients For the crust: 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour ½ tsp salt ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, chilled & cubed 1 egg yolk 2-3 tbsp cold water For the filling: 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream 2 eggs + 1 egg yolk ½ cup (50g)
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A timeless loaf that carries the taste of the earth, infused with wild herbs and encased in a protective salt crust—an offering of abundance for the spring season. Gathering of Ingredients For the Dough: 2 cups all-purpose flour 1 cup whole wheat flour 1 cup warm water (around 100°F/38°C) 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
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Here’s a recipe for Meadow Elixir—a delicate floral infusion that captures the essence of spring. Gathering of Ingredients 2 cups fresh elderflowers, violets, or chamomile (or 1 cup dried) 4 sprigs fresh lemon balm, mint, or rosemary Zest of 1 orange 4 cups hot water (not boiling, to preserve floral notes) 2 tbsp honey (or
Meadow Elixir: A Springtime Floral Infusion Read More »
Uttarakhand’s rugged terrain and varied climate have long nurtured a unique array of natural ingredients. Many of these ingredients, once staples in local kitchens, continue to play an important role in traditional recipes and health practices. Below is a closer look at some of these foraged treasures: Lingda (Fiddlehead Ferns) What It Is: Lingda
Forgotten Ingredients of Uttarakhand Read More »
Below is an origin story for Biryani along with a detailed recipe for Mutton Biryani, all presented in a warm “Ladles & Lore” style. Origin Story of Biryani Biryani’s origins are as layered as its fragrant rice. It is believed that the dish evolved from ancient Persian pilaf (or “pilau”), which made its way into
Saffron & Sovereignty: Tale of Biryani Read More »
A Taste of the Hills In Garhwal’s quiet mountain hamlets, where food is simple but powerful, the bhang chicken curry stands as a testament to the ingenuity of highland kitchens. Made without tomatoes, turmeric, or heavy spice blends, this dish sings with the flavour of fresh chicken, earthy bhang seeds, and the unmistable pungency of
Bhang’s Benediction: Garhwali Bhang Chicken Curry Read More »
Gathering Ingredients(Serves 4-6): Pahadi Chicken Curry For the Marinade: 800 g chicken (cut into pieces, bone-in for richer flavour) 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder Salt, to taste Juice of 1 lemon For the Curry: 3 large onions, thinly sliced 3 cloves garlic, minced 1-inch piece ginger, finely chopped 2 tomatoes, chopped (or
The Legacy of the Mountain Flame: Pahadi Chicken Curry Recipe Read More »
When most people hear the word bhang, their minds instantly leap to Holi celebrations, intoxicating thandai, and loud, colourful revelry. But in the hills of Uttarakhand, bhang — the seeds of the cannabis plant — holds a surprisingly dignified place in traditional cuisine. Yes, you heard that right — bhang isn’t just for festive
Bhang on Your Plate: Uttarakhand’s Unusual Culinary Ingredient Read More »
Sichuan Fiery Lotus Stew In the mist-wreathed mountains of Sichuan, where bamboo forests sway in secret and mountain streams murmur ancient verses, there lived a legend of the Fiery Lotus. It was said that deep in a hidden pool nestled among the cliffs, a single lotus bloomed once every hundred years. Its petals glowed like
The Legend of the Fiery Lotus: Sichuan Read More »