New Delhi chefs dish out a taste of India

New Delhi chefs Mukesh Kumar and Arjun spent nine hours preparing delicious north and south Indian cuisine for the premiere of the Indian Food Festival, A Taste of India, at the Pool Terrace Garden Restaurant, Hilton Trinidad and Conference Centre, St Ann’s, last Thursday. Among those savouring the dishes were Leroy Browne, acting general manager of Hilton, sales and marketing manager Darlene McDonald, Indian High Commissioner Malay Mishra and Minister of Trade Vasant Bharath.

After the formalities and dinner, the chefs came in for kudos from Browne. He said: “When you work in food all the time, there is not much that is left to impress you. But the food was amazing. I enjoyed the garlic naan ( a type of bread). The music and dance were excellent. A  lot of people here love good food. India is celebrating its Independence. T&T is celebrating its 50th anniversary.”

Describing the chefs as “humble, hard-working men,” he said: “We went to a function by the High Commissioner (Mishra). All they could talk about was getting started on the cooking. They were eager to get to work. They are passionate about their cooking.” Hilton’s executive chef Israel Calderon complimented the chefs for their superb culinary skills and professionalism. He said: “Our chefs prepared about 60 dishes. I found it was a pleasure working with them. They are basing it on the cuisine of north and south India which is multinational. It has a lot of items. It is great food.”

Calderon added: “My expectation is a lot of people would come out. We are hoping to have more culinary events like Oktoberfest.” Both chefs said they were visiting Trinidad for the first time. Immediately, they formed favourable impressions of the people and country.

They have worked in South American countries like  Argentina and Mexico. Kumar, an employee at Hotel Samrat, New Delhi, said they used blend of fresh ingredients and spices. Freshly cooked naan and dosa (rotis with potato fillings) stations were set up. He expressed gratitude for the support of Calderon and Hilton staff.