Kathiyawadi cuisine is deeply rooted in local culture: Chef Poonam Dedhia
25 Feb 2025 5:07 AM
For Chef Poonam Dedhia, Kathiyawadi cuisine is more than just a collection of recipes – it's a reflection of the region's history, culture, and traditions.
One of the key characteristics of Kathiyawadi cuisine is its bold and aromatic flavours, which are achieved through the use of local spices, herbs, and ingredients. (Photo by arrangement)
In a bid to introduce the city to the bold and vibrant flavours of Gujarat's Kathiyawadi cuisine to foodies in the city, Novotel Hyderabad Airport has launched 'Swaad Kathiawaad Ka', a unique food festival crafted by guest chef Poonam Dedhia. This 10-day culinary journey, which runs from February 22 to March 2, promises to take food enthusiasts on a gastronomic tour of Kathiawad's rich culinary heritage.
For Chef Poonam Dedhia, Kathiyawadi cuisine is more than just a collection of recipes – it's a reflection of the region's history, culture, and traditions. "Kathiyawadi cuisine is a colorful celebration of strong flavours and age-old traditions," she explains. "It's a cuisine that's deeply rooted in the local culture, and every dish tells a story of the region's rich heritage."
One of the key characteristics of Kathiyawadi cuisine is its bold and aromatic flavours, which are achieved through the use of local spices, herbs, and ingredients. "The flavours of Kathiyawadi cuisine are very bold and spicy," says Chef Poonam. "We use a lot of local spices, herbs, and ingredients, which give our dishes a unique flavour profile."
The festival's menu, designed by Chef Poonam, features a range of authentic Kathiyawadi dishes, including live counters of Surti Patties and Kutchi Dabeli, rich main courses like Surti Undhiyu and Lasaniya Ringna-Bateta nu Shaak, traditional bread like Bajri na Rotla and Phulka Rotli, and rich desserts like Kesar Jalebi and Khopra Paak.
For Executive Chef Amanna Raju of Novotel Hyderabad Airport, the festival is an opportunity to introduce the city to a new and unexplored cuisine. "We are excited to bring the flavours of Kathiyawad to Hyderabad," he says. "Our guests will get to experience the rich culinary heritage of Gujarat, and we are confident that they will love it."
The festival's focus on home food is a deliberate attempt to recreate the warmth and comfort of a traditional Kathiyawadi meal. "For us Gujjus, it's like normal home food," says Chef Poonam.
Executive Chef Amanna Raju adds, "We want our guests at Novotel Hyderabad Airport to feel like they are eating at home, surrounded by the love and warmth of a traditional Kathiyawadi family."
The use of local and seasonal ingredients is another key aspect of Kathiyawadi cuisine, and the festival's menu reflects this emphasis on freshness and sustainability. "We use a lot of local and seasonal ingredients in our dishes," explains Chef Poonam. "For example, during the winter season, we use a lot of fresh turmeric, garlic, and ginger in our cooking."
The festival's menu is also designed to showcase the diversity and richness of Kathiyawadi cuisine, with a range of dishes that cater to different tastes and preferences. "We have a lot of gluten-free and vegan options, so that everyone can enjoy the flavours of Kathiyawad."
In addition to the food, the festival also features a range of refreshing drinks, including Jamun Shots, Piyush, and Masala Chaas. "We want our guests to feel like they are experiencing the authentic flavoujs of Kathiyawad," says Chef Poonam. "From the food to the drinks, every aspect of the festival is designed to recreate the warmth and hospitality of a traditional Kathiyawadi meal."
As the city gears up to experience the bold and vibrant flavours of Kathiyawad, Chef Poonam Dedhia and her team are busy putting the final touches to the festival's menu. "We hope that our guests will enjoy the experience and come back for more," she says.
Swaad Kathiawaad Ka at NHA details:
Swaad Kathiawaad Ka at NHA details:
- Date: February 22 to March 2
- Time: 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Venue: Novotel Hyderabad Airport
- Menu: Authentic Kathiyawadi dishes, including live counters, main course, traditional bread, and desserts
- Drinks: Refreshing drinks, including Jamun Shots, Piyush, and Masala Chaas
- Time: 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Venue: Novotel Hyderabad Airport
- Menu: Authentic Kathiyawadi dishes, including live counters, main course, traditional bread, and desserts
- Drinks: Refreshing drinks, including Jamun Shots, Piyush, and Masala Chaas
( Source : Deccan Chronicle )
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