From the spicy streets of India to your plate, Le Meridien’s Eau de Monsoon celebrates the rich flavours of Indian cuisine, featuring authentic recipes that highlight the country’s vibrant culinary traditions, says SAKSHI PRIYA
In the heart of Delhi, where culinary dreams come alive, Le Meridien’s Eau de Monsoon invites guests to embark on a remarkable journey – A Culinary Odyssey Through India. The newly introduced menu features a specially curated selection that showcases authentic Indian recipes passed down through generations. From the fiery curries of the North to the delicate seafood of the South, each dish is meticulously crafted using the freshest local ingredients and time-honoured cooking techniques.
This dining experience offers a delightful array of flavours, inviting diners to enjoy the royal richness of Lucknow, the bold spices of Rajasthan, and the delicate tastes of Bengal. The Chef’s Table experience, curated with meticulous attention to detail, presents a vibrant mix of regional flavours and traditional recipes, each thoughtfully reimagined for a contemporary palate.
The experience begins with the Chaat Sampler, an assortment of classic street foods elevated to fine dining. The Dilli Ki Palak Patta Chaat is a delightful combination of crispy spinach leaves, tangy chutneys, and sweet yoghurt. Each bite is a perfect balance of textures and flavours, leaving a lasting taste of nostalgia. The Agra Ke Chowk Ki Tikki, with its crispy exterior and spicy potato filling, adds a hearty and satisfying element, while the Benaras Ki Tamatar Chaat, with its tangy tomato base, provides a refreshing contrast. The presentation is elegant, and the flavours are spot on, making this a fantastic start to the meal.
Next on the menu is the Bhuna Asparagus Shorba, a warm and comforting soup that sets the tone for the meal ahead. This dish, enhanced by a drop of coriander oil, exudes a subtle aroma that enriches the experience. Sipping the first spoonful is truly heartwarming, as the delicate flavours of asparagus meld seamlessly with mild spices. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that prepares the palate for the rich and diverse flavours to come.
For those looking for something out of the ordinary, the Tandoori Broccoli is a revelation. Marinated in spices and cooked in the tandoor, it boasts a smoky, charred flavour that is unexpectedly delicious. It’s a perfect example of how traditional cooking methods can bring new life to humble ingredients. The Khumbh & Amaranth Galouti, a vegetarian take on the classic galouti kebab, is rich and flavoursome, melting in the mouth with every bite. The Millet & Fresh Fava Bean Kebab offers a wholesome yet flavourful alternative, with a nutty taste that lingers on the palate. It’s delicious and satisfying.
The main course features a variety of vegetarian options that celebrate the diversity of Indian cuisine. The Paneer Khaas, with its soft paneer stuffed with spiced vegetables in a rich, creamy gravy, is a standout. The dish is indulgent without being overwhelming, and the flavours are well-balanced. Another highlight is the Tarkari Stew with Appam. The stew, made with a medley of seasonal vegetables, is subtly spiced and pairs beautifully with the soft, fluffy appam. This South Indian classic is comfort food at its finest, and the use of fresh, local ingredients elevates it to something truly special.
The Gahat Ki Dal is a must-try for those who appreciate regional specialities. This hearty lentil dish from Uttarakhand is packed with earthy flavours, and the addition of local spices gives it a unique, comforting warmth. The Rajasthani Gatta Curry, made with chickpea flour dumplings in a spicy yoghurt-based gravy, is another excellent choice. The dumplings are soft yet firm, and the gravy has a depth of flavour that is both satisfying and memorable.
Among the non-vegetarian options, the Champaran Mutton, slow-cooked with robust spices, and the Kozhi Chettinad, a spicy chicken dish from Tamil Nadu, are both worth exploring. They reflect the chef’s dedication to showcasing India’s culinary diversity while maintaining authenticity in flavours.
The meal concludes with the chef's signature dessert, and what a dessert it is! The Shahi Tukda is presented with a touch of theatrical flair. The dessert arrives covered with a delicate sheet of rice paper, which is then set alight, revealing the dish underneath in a dramatic flourish. The Shahi Tukda itself is perfectly executed – crispy fried bread soaked in fragrant saffron syrup, topped with rich rabri and garnished with slivers of almonds and pistachios. The textures and flavours are beautifully balanced, making it a truly indulgent end to the meal.
Throughout the dining experience, the service at Eau de Monsoon is attentive and knowledgeable, enhancing the overall experience. The new menu is a celebration of India’s rich culinary heritage, presented with elegance and creativity. For those looking to explore the diverse flavours of India in a refined setting, this is not to be missed.
Eau de Monsoon not only showcases the finest in Indian cuisine but also embodies the elegance and sophistication that Le Meridien is known for. The restaurant’s warm, inviting ambiance, combined with the artistry on each plate, creates a dining experience that is both memorable and enriching. Every dish tells a story, blending tradition and innovation, making it more than just a meal; it’s a culinary journey that celebrates the diversity and depth of Indian flavours. For those seeking an exquisite mix of heritage and modernity in a luxurious setting, Le Meridien’s Eau de Monsoon is the perfect destination.
PHOTO : PANKAJ KUMAR
