Ishaara triumphs with Chef Sherry’s UNDIVIDED PUNJAB Menu

 

Normally, diners choose staple Punjabi dishes when eating out at a fine dining restaurant. We, at WHAT’S OF MUMBAI have also chosen to opt for dishes / cuisines which have a unique twist coupled with robust flavors and textures. This was the prime reason why we opted to review the “Undivided Punjab" food festival at Ishaara, Phoenix Market City, Kurla. Ishaara has always promoted menus and pop-ups which have unique flavor notes and entail an immersive experience filled with the flavors, aromas and rich textures.

The menu which has been curated by Chef Sherry Mehta is superlative, stunning, lip-tingling and divine. Chef Sherry draws inspiration from cherished family recipes and nostalgic kitchens, crafting a menu that tells the story of undivided Punjab. “This menu is my tribute to the flavors I grew up with,” says Chef Sherry. “Each dish carries the warmth of home and the richness of forgotten traditions.” 

WHAT’S HOT IN MUMBAI enjoyed every dish we savoured. The flavours take you down memory lanes of the exotic rich, spice notes of Punjab – each combination superbly blended for that flavor-packed experience. A standing ovation to Chef Sherry for this glorification of delightful treats and heralding our rich Indian cuisine with her signature touch and bold (yet subtle) reinterpretation.

We strongly recommend you try these dishes:

Aam Papad Ki Chaat - This delightful snack is a perfect start and brilliant fusion of traditional Indian flavors and modern chaat elements. It’s worth every bite and has the perfect tart sweetness of our Indian mango leather. The curation is bang-on with small bites of the aam papad added to the creamy dahi which has some tantalizing soft potatoes and other elements. The beauty lies in the underplay of the two chutneys which superbly merge with the flavour notes. Do start your culinary journey with this delectable Amritsari street side snack.

To check the video, click HERE

Mutton Chapli Kebab – Flavor-packed flat kebabs with layers of warmth and the rustic earthiness of Punjab. The meat is soft and echoes the hours of pounding to get the right texture. Here too, there is an underplay on the spice quotient and you can relish the subtle infusion of spices and herbs. Served without any mint chutney and just same basic garnishing, this kebab goes perfectly with the cocktails.

Parat Paneer – You will actually feel the original taste of paneer which we seem to be missing with the analogue paneer available in the market. This double layer sandwich paneer is beautifully hiding the goodness of flavours that make the snack quite delectable. The prunes flavor is subtle and the bhuna masala margination is again mild. We would have surely relished it more if the spice element was bolder and a wee-bit intense.

Bharwan Gucchi Kaandhari – Although this is primarily a Kashmiri dish, the elements of Punjab take it to the next level. The rich chironji gravy is bursting with miraculous flavours, this dish surely showcases a harmonious balance of earthy flavors, luxurious textures, and a rich cultural heritage. The gucchi mushrooms themselves have a tender, almost spongy bite, which contrasts wonderfully with the rich, savory stuffing inside.

Quetta Special Rosh – A visual treat to watch long, mutton shanks adorning the platter and a strong whiff of the gravy defining the slow cooking features. The mutton is incredibly tender, with each bite offering a satisfying, melt-in-your-mouth experience. The gravy is not so thick but with a better, balanced consistency of a shorba. The flavours are luscious, perfect for soaking up with naan or biryani. We preferred to slurp this hearty, rustic gravy and relish the tender chunks of meat.

To check the video, click HERE

Qorma Pulav (non-vegetarian) and Kale Moti Aur Asharfi Ki Biryani (vegetarian) were flavoursome, aromatic and perfectly cooked. Quite a delight.

Katlama – Our favorite on the list, perfectly curated from our earlier tried versions in Kashmir. This Katlama is a delightful combination of Punjabi flavors, textures, and aromas. The crispy, golden crust of chickpea flour combined with the spiced split urad dal and seasoned with anar dana create a perfect balance of indulgence and satisfaction. A quick, filling snack, Katlama captures the essence of comfort food, offering both warmth and richness in every bite. Katlama is a must-try, delivering a flavor-packed experience that’s sure to leave you wanting more.

For desserts, we suggest the Ludhiyana ka Dhodha and for cocktails, the Cocoa Munda is worth trying.

Rating – 10 Stars!

Event Details 

Location: Ishaara Phoenix Market City Kurla, Mumbai. The menu is also available at Ishaara, Wakad, Mall of the Millennium & Ishaara, Phoenix MarketCity Viman Nagar, Pune 

Dates: Starting 7th November 2024

Time: 11 AM to 11 PM

To check the video, click HERE

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(Ishaara India, Fine Dining. Connoisseurs. Luxury Influencer. Food Festivals in Mumbai. Mumbai Foodies. Punjabi Food lovers. Chef Sherry Mehta. Katlama. Aam Papad ki Chaat. Yummy food in Mumbai).