It has been a real shame to come to the end of Rick Stein’s Indian odyssey. I have been hooked both on the food and the way this has helped to bring this extraordinary country to life. “To understand a country you have to eat it” was his oft repeated quote.
The contrast between the hustle and bustle of the cities and the tranquillity of the bungalow on the Kerala lagoon sums up the differences across the country and why it is such a great place to explore. I also loved Rick’s comment that after time in India he almost found himself going vegetarian such was the quality of the food! I can’t agree more and as country it really does open vegetarian cooking to traditional meat eaters.
Rick covered off almost all the main food types and the only real exception I could see was Kashmiri cooking with its use of fruit, yoghurt and rice. After many years of advice against travelling to Kashmir from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) they have recently given the Srinagar Valley, and other parts of the states, the all clear. If you are in Northern India it is well worth thinking of enjoying the beauty of Srinagar and Dal Lake for a few days.
I am not sure that I could name a favourite curry among those that have featured. I have cooked and enjoyed two already, the Squid Curry he picked up from a canteen in Mumbai, episode 2, and the Paneer Jalfezi from episode 4 and the stately city of Lucknow – this is quick and easy to make. The challenge is on to find a special occasion to make the Chicken and Rosewater biryani!
There are so many choices of types of holidays to India from specialist group tours, beach stays, and private tailor-made trips to river cruises or walking holidays. There really is something for everyone even before you throw in the chance to try some of its fantastic food. Use the expertise of Putney Travel to help plan your Indian holiday. We know it and are passionate about it and would love to help you enjoy it to its full. Get in contact and see how we can help.
by TMS