Early Times Report
NEW DELHI, Aug 16: The Independence Day ‘At Home’ reception hosted by President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan showcased the rich culinary traditions of Chhattisgarh, Goa, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, with seven traditional delicacies served to over 500 guests. The reception was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Ministers, political leaders, diplomats, ambassadors and other dignitaries. The menu reflected India’s culinary diversity and highlighted the close links between food, culture, communities and nature. The seven dishes served on the occasion included Indori Poha, Patoleo, Mini Farra, Bafauri, Khamang Kakdi, Dodol and Kodo Millet Kheer. Indori Poha, a popular dish from Madhya Pradesh, was prepared with flattened rice and served with spices, sev, coriander, onion and pomegranate. Goa’s traditional Patoleo, a sweet made from rice, coconut and jaggery and steamed in turmeric leaves, was also part of the menu. Two traditional preparations from Chhattisgarh—Mini Farra and Bafauri—were also served. Mini Farra is a steamed rice-flour preparation, while Bafauri is made from soaked and ground chana dal mixed with spices and herbs before being steamed. Maharashtra’s Khamang Kakdi, a cucumber salad prepared with coconut, roasted peanuts, green chilli, coriander and mustard tempering, added another regional flavour to the menu. |