FAMILY FAVOURITES : Indian Traditional Recipes Passed Down Through Generations, with a Modern Twist
Indian food is a masterful weave of flavours that have been handed down through the ages. Every family puts their own special touch on traditional recipes, resulting in a delightful secret treasure trove. We’ll dive into the mystery of these beloved family favourites in this blog, preserving the custom while adding a contemporary twist.
Indian food is known for its diversity, with distinct flavours, ingredients, and cooking methods found in each location. There are many different cuisines to try, from the robust lentil dishes of the north to the fiery curries of the south. The ancient family recipes that have been passed down through the centuries, preserving the flavours of the past, are at the core of it all.
Grandmother's Ghee Roast Chicken
Although roast chicken is a staple food around the world, ghee gives it a unique flavour in many Indian homes. The chicken is traditionally marinated in yoghurt, ginger-garlic paste, and aromatic spices. For a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture, the chicken is then slowly roasted in clarified butter (ghee). For a modern twist, try marinating the meat with a fragrant blend of herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, for a contemporary twist. You might also consider adding a squeeze of lemon to the dish’s finale for some brightness.
Tangy Take on Dal Makhani
A classic comfort food, Dal Makhani is a slow-cooked black lentil dish cooked in a thick tomato and cream gravy. To lighten things up for a modern palate, in place of cream, try using low-fat yoghurt or coconut milk to make things more approachable for a modern palette. Additionally, you can add pomegranate seeds or chopped cilantro for a blast of freshness.
Kebabs
whether stuffed or spiced, are a staple of Indian festivities. Traditionally, skewers with minced lamb or chicken are grilled after being marinated in a strong spice mixture. Examine other protein sources for a contemporary twist, such as turkey or paneer (Indian cottage cheese), which is a lighter option. Additionally, you may play around with the fillings, adding sun-dried tomatoes or roasted veggies for a flavourful pop.
Kadhai Paneer with a Twist from Grandma
A vegetarian favourite is Kadhai Paneer, which is pan-fried cottage cheese in a bright tomato-onion sauce. Try serving the paneer with a choice of bell peppers or mushrooms to make this dish more elegant for a contemporary table. Roasted red peppers or chipotle peppers can also be used to provide a little sweetness or smokiness.
Sweet Finishes
Reimagining Sweets: Indian sweets are renowned for their ghee and nut content, as well as their richness. Try using healthier substitutes for sugar, such as dates or jaggery (raw cane sugar), for a more modern take. Additionally, you may play around with portion sizes, serving smaller pieces or individual dessert cups for a more deliberate pleasure.
These are bit a handful of suggestions to get you going. The versatility of family recipes is what makes them so beautiful. It’s okay to try new things, put your own spin on things, and start new customs while maintaining the old ones. The kitchen is a place for love, laughter, and making lifelong memories, after all.
The secret to effectively updating classic Indian dishes for a modern audience is to find a balance between creativity and traditionalism. Honouring the history and cultural significance of these dishes is just as important as experimenting with new flavours and ingredients. By doing this, we can make sure that the next generation will still treasure and enjoy them.