With 2024 about to end, we reflect on the food trends and unforgettable flavours that defined the year, says SAKSHI PRIYA
A Year to Savour: Food Moments of 2024
As 2024 draws to a close, it’s time to reflect on the tastes and trends that defined our culinary year. From viral dishes that united food lovers to beloved celebrity recipes that took over our kitchens, the year reminded us how food connects us. Whether it was the streets of Delhi buzzing with chatter over piping-hot kachoris or Instagram feeds flooding with quirky food combos, 2024 proved that our love for good food knows no bounds. So, let’s dive into the highlights that made this year a feast for both our plates and our hearts.
Viral Celebrity Recipes
Jackie Shroff’s Anda Curry Patta and Baingan Bharta
Jackie Shroff’s Anda Curry Patta became a go-to comfort dish for many, while his smoky Baingan Bharta gave eggplant a superstar moment. Everyone seemed to try their hand at his recipes, inspired by the way he explained each step in his cooking videos, peppered with his trademark “bhidu” charm. Fans couldn’t get enough, rating his dishes a solid 10 out of 10 for their earthy, soulful, and undeniably delicious flavours. Jackie truly became the culinary hero of 2024!
Aditi Rao Hydari’s Khagina
Aditi Rao Hydari’s Khagina became a sensation as everyone tried recreating her rich, buttery take on the classic egg dish. Her charming explanation, “cut the onions into moon-shaped slices, cook until pinkish, crack the eggs and top with masala”, made it a viral hit. Fans across the internet hailed it as the perfect brunch staple, calling it a true “taste of warmth”.
Farah Khan’s Yakhni Pulao
Farah Khan’s Yakhni Pulao was the culinary sensation of the year. A soulful mix of tender meat and fragrant rice, the dish captivated fans who couldn’t stop praising its simplicity and rich flavour. On her YouTube channel, she showed every step, making it easy to recreate. Viewers loved her detailed tips and rated it a perfect 10, proudly sharing their own versions online and creating videos titled “Trying Farah Khan’s Favourite Yakhni Pulao”.
Instagram Virals
Vada Pav in Delhi: A tiny stall in the heart of Delhi sent Mumbaikars into a frenzy! Foodies queued up for hours to get a taste of this Mumbai classic, proving that Delhi truly embraces all flavours.
Popcorn Momos in GK: Momo mania reached new heights with this crunchy, buttery twist. Found at a GK corner, this snack became the ultimate winter indulgence, drawing food bloggers and crowds alike.
Viral Cucumber Jar Salad: Healthy eating met Instagram aesthetics with this layered cucumber salad in a jar. With its vibrant colours and zesty dressing, it became a favourite for fitness enthusiasts and food photographers.
These dishes not only defined the culinary landscape of 2024 but also reminded us of the deep connections between food, culture and community. Here’s to more delectable adventures in the year ahead!
Celeb Viral Food Combos
Deepika Padukone’s Ema Datshi
Deepika’s love for the Bhutanese cheesy chilli dish Ema Datshi had people flocking to Tibetan restaurants to experience its fiery, creamy magic.
Shraddha Kapoor’s Varan Bhaat
This Maharashtrian classic became a viral sensation as Shraddha shared her family recipe. Fans across India tried recreating this simple yet comforting dish.
Janhvi Kapoor’s Idli and Chicken Curry
This unlikely combo went viral after Janhvi shared her love for it. Foodies everywhere couldn’t resist trying it, and it quickly became a trending dish, with fans recreating it at home and experimenting with the combo in their own kitchens.
Flavours that Travelled
Banaras #malaiyo #tamarchaat
Banaras delivered on all fronts this year, especially with its food. The winter-special Malaiyo, a frothy dessert that melts in your mouth, became a seasonal must-try. Meanwhile, the tangy and spicy Tamatar Chaat delighted foodies with its zesty flavours, making it the city's street-food superstar.
Kashmir #kahwa #roganjosh
The "Paradise on Earth" showcased its culinary treasures alongside its natural beauty in 2024. Kahwa, the traditional spiced tea and the aromatic Rogan Josh were must-haves for travellers seeking warmth and flavour amidst the snow-draped landscapes
Lakshadweep #muskaavab
The smoky and succulent Mus Kaavab paired perfectly with the aromatic, coconut-infused Tuna Curry, making every bite a celebration of coastal flavours. Each meal offered a taste of island life, blending the sea’s bounty with vibtant flavours.
Ladakh #thukpa #buttertea
Ladakh's dishes weren’t just delicious, they were soul-soothing. The hearty Thukpa, a noodle soup packed with vegetables and meat, became a favourite, while the creamy, salty Butter Tea was a comforting companion in the chilly weather.
Goa #porkvindaloo #crabxecxec
Goa’s cuisine stole the spotlight in 2024 with its bold and flavourful offerings. The spicy and tangy Pork Vindaloo, Crab Xec Xec and fiery Prawns Balchao cemented their place as iconic dishes, bringing joy to every table.
All-Time Favourite Food Streets of Delhi
Let’s remember Delhi’s iconic street food, a delight for food lovers. Delhi’s street food scene never fails to impress.
Chandni Chowk: This winter, Chandni Chowk dazzled with iconic dahi bhallas, daulat ki chaat and hot jalebis paired with creamy rabri.
Kamla Nagar: A shopper’s paradise, the area also shone for its unbeatable chole bhature and Sharma Ji’s kachoris.
Lodhi Colony: Anna Durga South Indian offered perfect dosas and idlis, earning its spot as a social media favourite.
Connaught Place & Janpath: From Jain Chawal Wale’s iconic rajma rice to mini samosas and Wenger’s timeless baked treats, CP and Janpath were unmissable.
