Upon my recent visit to Renest, a hotel and resort located in Jaipur, I had the opportunity to experience their 'rajasthani thali'. Being overwhelmed by its taste, I decided to further converse with the chef to explore this cuisine. In an exclusive interaction with Amit Kumar Singh, the Executive Chef at Renest Jaipur, I learnt various facts and specific delicacies included in a Rajasthani meal.
All you need to know about a Rajasthani thali
India is a country of diversity. A country where delicious food is cooked in a different culture, caste, tradition and kitchen. So let's explore the food cooked in Rajasthan, the desert state of India. The beautiful massive forts the golden-looking desert reminds us of our old culture and knights. The colourful city, the heat of the desert and the food here will never let you down. Most of the state is full of Marwari people who prefer vegetarian food. So you too can enjoy the most delicious vegetarian food in different parts of the area. But in the city of Rajputs, you will get to taste delicious, spicy, hot meat curries, onion kachoris and mouth-watering sweets. However, the most remarkable thing about Rajasthani cuisine is that it's cooked in whole spices, enhancing its taste with the aroma of pungent herbs and spices.
If you have not visited Rajasthan yet and wonder what's so special about its cuisine, today, Chef Amit Kumar Singh will tell you about it. Everything is served on a Rajasthani thali, from dal bati churma to laal maas, so let's dig into its taste and method of preparation.
- Dal Bati Churma: Dal Bati Churma is a special dish in Rajasthani thali, specially made on unique festivals and served to guests at weddings. It takes a long time to prepare, but its taste is so good that you will not stop eating it. This is a combination of 3 dishes, i.e. dal (mixed lentil curry), baked baati wheat balls, and churma (wheat ball powder) as a side dish. It is usually served for lunch during freezing weather.
- Shahi Gatte: Gatta curry is made from gram flour and, when served on Rajasthani thali, is called Shahi Gatte. When the word shahi is added to its name, you can understand that rich ingredients like dry fruits, milk, and cream have been used.
- Laal Maas: Those fond of non-vegetarian food, 'laal maas' is served for you in a Rajasthani thali. Laal maas is a mutton curry prepared in hot spices and yoghurt sauce. This dish's gravy is typically very thick, hot, and rich in garlic eaten with rotis made of bajra or wheat.
- Dahi Wada is a popular snack in India prepared by soaking wadas in thick yoghurt (dahi). It's also an essential part of the Rajasthani thali.
- Gatta Rice: Gatta chawal is a Rajasthani delicacy commonly eaten as a main course during festivals.
- Churma Laddu: Churma laddus are served on a Rajasthani thali as dessert. It is made in desi ghee and dry fruits, making it even more healthy.