The last couple of years have been all about pairing Indian food with a variety of fine wines, spirits and liqueurs. But then did you know that whisky also pairs considerably well with the rich local cuisine? Usually considered a high strength spirit, pairing whisky with the robustly spicy Indian fare is generally assumed to be a recipe for disaster. And that is exactly the misconception that Sandeep Arora wants to bust. At the month-long promotion at Taj Krishna’s Firdaus, the whisky connoisseur intends to show guests how they can pair some fine quality liqueur with their Indian food.
“Contrary to the myth that whisky doesn’t pair well with Indian food, the beverage goes exceptionally well with some Indian dishes. We have chosen a selection of dishes that do not overpower the taste of the whisky and instead bring out its subtle flavours,” says Sandeep Arora, director of Spiritual Luxury Living. The whisky connoisseur has chosen Royal Salute, a beverage that has been aged for 21 years and has notes of lavender and gooseberry.
This whisky was launched by Chivas Brothers in 1953 as a tribute to Queen Elizabeth II on her coronation. While most whiskies are aged for an average of seven years, Royal Salute is aged for a minimum of 21 years making it one of the most premium brands.
Chef Nitin Mathur has curated a four-course menu that comprises some authentic Hyderabadi dishes that are mildly spicy and bring out the flavours of the whisky. The restaurant also offers whisky cocktails for those looking for a milder drink to go with their meal.
Some of the dishes on offer as part of the set menu are Shikampur Kebab, Haldi Mirch ka Jheenga, Mirch Bhari Batata Tikki, Jaituni Malai Paneer, Paya shorba or Bhuni Mirch aur Makai ka shorba. For the main course the menu has on offer haleem, Nalli gosht, Jheenga ka salan, Machli Tawa Masala, Dum ka paneer, Turai Methi and Kaddu ka Dalcha. Try any of these delicious curries with a choice of breads like naan, kulcha and phulka.
Follow it up with a round of Hyderabadi Kacche gosht ki dum biryani and you’re good to go.
For those with a sweet tooth chef Nitin has a selection of desserts like Double ka Meetha, Khubani ka Meetha Chikki Kulfi.
The whisky promotion is on for a month at Firdaus for dinners only with some of the finest malt beverages being offered with each course of the meal.
Where : Firdaus, Taj Krishna
When : Dinner only
Meal for two : Rs. 7,000
Contact : 040-66662323
