Taste of Westchester: Chutney Masala Indian Bistro
76 Main Street, Irvington, 914-591-5500, www.chutneymasala.com
Indian Spice Lunch – Interactive Lesson! Proprietor Navjot Arora, affectionately known as Dr. Spice, shares his vast food knowledge from Jalandhar, Punjab, his childhood home. Enjoy an interactive education on Indian spices used to create the complex flavors that comprise each dish. Try your hand at crafting your own savory turnovers, Samosas with potato, pea and ginger filling served with chana masala, mint chutney and tamarind chutney. A discussion on the history of curry: adopted and anglicized from the Tamil word kari meaning “sauce.” A spice blend used for making kari dishes, called kari podi, came to be known as curry powder. Each curry has a unique blend of herbs and spices based on regional, cultural, family and religious preference. Chef will teach us the makings of Chicken Chettinad – spicy chicken curry with black peppercorns, fennel powder and curry leaves. An explanation on an Indian staple, authentic Chana Masala – chickpeas and Garam masala. Then explore the technique for a delicious Vegetarian Biryani, a fragrant combination of long grain Basmati slow cooked in a special copper vessel, medium spicy with herbs and served with Raita (cucumber yogurt cooler). Experience a quick lesson in the kitchen on the nuances of making a classic nan bread baked fresh in the tandoor. Try a mini-taste of their signature cocktail Anarkali – vodka with pomegranate, grapefruit and lime juices. Navjot is a celebrated local chef, winning the 2024 Michelin Bib Gourmand for good quality, good value restaurant. Come explore the tastes of India with this incredible educator!
1 Saturday, November 8, 11:30am-1:30pm, $25 (+ $30 sampling fee in CASH, payable to instructor). #71963