Indore (Madhya Pradesh): Indore aka the food capital of India’s gastronomic legacy recently earned international acclaim when Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and his partner Lauren Sanchez indulged in Indore-inspired flavours at celebrity chef Vikas Khanna’s Bungalow restaurant in New York City.
Among the standout dishes from various parts of India was the Dahi Kebab, a tribute to Indore’s celebrated street food, which left an indelible impression on the couple.
The Dahi Kebab, a classic from Indore’s vibrant food scene, was part of an eclectic menu featuring dishes from across India. Vikas Khanna revealed on social media that he drew inspiration for the dish from the legendary Dahi Tikki of Sarafa Bazaar in Indore.
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Sharing the recipe, Khanna noted, “Born in Indore, Redefined in Manhattan,” highlighting how the iconic flavour had been re-imagined for an international audience.
Moreover, the meal, described by Bezos as a “Pilgrimage,” underscored India’s influence on global palates. Chef Khanna also shared his pride, emphasizing the “power of authenticity” in Indian cuisine.
Indore: A Gastronomic Powerhouse
From the bustling lanes of Chappan Dukan to the lively Sarafa Bazaar, Indore’s rich culinary heritage has long captivated food enthusiasts. Known for its irresistible chaats, poha, jalebis, and kebabs, the city’s diverse and innovative food offerings have reached far beyond its borders, further solidifying its reputation as a gastronomic powerhouse.
A Star-Studded Affair
The New York dinner hosted by Vikas Khanna showcased not only Indore’s Dahi Kebab but also a wide array of Indian delicacies, including Bengali Kasundi Tandoori Avocado, Bihari Sattu Roti, Udipi’s Annanas Menaskai, and Gujarat’s Tindora Pickle. Other highlights included Nagaland’s Black Rice Pudding, Odisha’s Guguni Chaat, Dogra-inspired Chicken Anarkali, and Gulab Jamun Ice Cream with Millet-Chocolate Cake.
PM calls Indore ‘Capital of Cuisine’
Prime Minister Narendra Modi had praised Indore’s delicacies, especially its wide range of namkeen, and called Indore the Capital of Cuisine. PM’s speech, during the Pravasi Bhartiya Sammelan in 2023, made such an impact on the NRIs that they couldn’t resist having a tour of the world-famous Indori namkeen, Indore’s Dahi Kebab at Vikas Khanna dinner.
