Monday, February 8, 2010

The Host

It was the best of everything. My dear friends, Annette and Estelle were coming to see the new apartment. They very generously offered to take me for a Winterlicious belated birthday dinner. What could be better than to take a short walk in a delightful snowy evening to this outstanding Indian restaurant? I had just dined there a few weeks ago and it was so delicious I wanted to go back for more.

This special menu was part of the Winterlicious program. It was beyond any expectation we had. Every bite was picture perfect and delectable. Winterlicious ends on Feb 11. I urge you to rush there for this gourmet experience. The regular menu is, of course, always available and absolutely wonderful

The Starter suggestions pleased us a lot. We each ordered a different one and shared the dishes. The Samosas are triangular pastry stuffed with spiced potatoes. The Pakoras are deep fried in a spicy gram flour batter and are totally vegetarian. The Cheese Nan is Indian Nan bread stuffed with cheese and a little spice. We devoured them all and loved every morsel.

Do not be concerned that Indian food is always hot. You can order to your taste. Indian food is a mélange of wonderful spices. That does not necessarily mean hot in flavor.

The Malabar Fish Curry offered chunks of fish cooked in a southern style in gravy of yogurt and coconut.

We also shared my favorite dish of Saag. Fresh spinach puree is served with a choice of paneer or potatoes. This is a classic northern Indian dish.

Our third main course choice was the Aloo Gobhi. Potatoes and cauliflower florets are perfectly melded in a thick masala.

We couldn’t believe our great fortune when we were told we also had the option of side dishes. We once again shared an order of Nan, Dal Maknnni (lentils) and Rice.

We were not going to leave anything because it was just too delicious.

All of the above food was presented by charming servers who made sure we were content. The manager graciously circulated and talked to all the patrons. The beautiful young lady, sari clad, met us at the door but continued to make sure we were being looked after.

We even managed to finish with a dessert. We all ordered the Pista Kulfi, a pistachio flavored ice cream because it seemed to be the less rich of the other choices. The ice cream was rich and creamy and very flavorful.

The Rasmalai is a spongy homemade cheesecake in thick, sweeten flavored milk. Gulab Jamun is s plate of cheese balls flavored in sugar syrup.

What an evening! The total package was more than pleasing. I thanked my good friends for their friendship and generosity and I am still thinking about that exotic meal a day later.

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