Archive for the ‘Indian’ Category
‘Lat-India’ cuisine
One rainy night, I was out with friends at a bar, killing time while waiting for a late night comedy show. There was still a while to go and I started feeling hunger pangs. Instead of continuing to throw back drinks, decided to venture out and find some food. We were in the West Village and a couple blocks away was a restaurant that has been on my list: Taco Mahal, located at the corner of 7th Avenue and Barrow Street.
I’ve heard a lot of good things about this place—essentially, the vibe was Tex-Mex food with an Indian twist. Although, their website has a more detailed introduction: “When your parents are from different cultures, only the best things can happen. One from Latin America and the other from India. We like to call it ‘LAT-INDIA.’”
First and foremost, once stepping inside, it was a nice bright contrast to the rainy night.
Taking a long look at the menu, my eyes went right to the panel that displayed all the different fillings to select from when choosing a taco (or bowl). Additionally, they also have a number of biryani dishes and sides.
I put in my order and took a seat. Despite getting it takeaway, I was definitely having a taste before leaving and going back into the rain.
While it was a busy night, the order didn’t take very long to complete. The bag was delivered to my table and I popped it open to take a look at the haul. I went right for the masala fries.
Hand-cut and “uniquely seasoned” fries with a sprinkling of queso fresco. The restaurant offers a generous serving and, based on the temperature of the tray, this was freshly out of the fryer!
The flavors on these delightfully crisp fries were fantastic!
In addition, while I was digging in, I was asked by a passing staff member, “Did you get chutney?” I looked back in the bag and pulled out two containers.
One was ketchup and the other was a tangy green chutney—they were both perfect condiments!
Digging back into the bag, it was the first time noticing that these tacos were HUGE. When thinking of tacos, there’s an image we all have in our mind… these were not those typical tacos! However, before I could tuck in, the time came to head back to the bar and it was there where I tackled the first one.
When ordering, Taco Mahal gives you the choice of a roti, naan, or a basmati bowl. Seems the roti tacos might be closer to the “expected” taco size but I went with naan—I LOVE naan—and garlic naan was also option!
Then, there’s the selection of protein and one of them is my favorite Indian dish: saag paneer.
Spinach cooked in spices and herbs, and accompanied by tasty cubes of paneer (a type of cheese). I never think the visuals are particularly great but the flavor is fabulous!
The meal turned out to be a messy one but, after taking the first bite, it was obvious that this was something special. The naan is fluffy (with lots of garlic flavor) and, paired with the delicious saag, this was a fantastic taco! All the spices and flavors were incredible.
Now, as noted, these tacos were massive and I couldn’t possibly have another. So, I had to save the second one. However, once the next day rolled around, I was so excited for lunch!
This one was a classic: chicken tikka masala (also in garlic naan).
First, I put the taco in a covered pan with some water to both crisp and steam the naan. Once the outside felt about right, I opened it up and give it a short spin in the microwave to ensure it was warmed all the way through.
The taco was packed with several pieces of well-seasoned chicken breast that was baked in a tandoor then simmered in a sweet tomato sauce with fenugreek leaves—this was also a knockout. Obviously, eating it fresh would have been ideal but, even reheated, it was still great!
On their “About” page, the restaurant notes: “At Taco Mahal, we blend the best of both worlds: the delicious spices of ‘East Eats’ with the mouth-watering ingredients of ‘West Zest.’” Yes! Everything I had between dinner and lunch the next day was spectacular, and there is still so much more to try!
Quality delivery
I’ve been having some quiet days at home the last couple weeks and, at some point, needed to order delivery for dinner. While trying to figure out what to have, I thought, “Let’s get biryani tonight!” I knew exactly who to call: Bombay Grill, located along 3rd Avenue, between 87th and 88th Streets.
The food arrived in a timely manner and, before diving into the biryani, there were a couple samosas calling my name.
The two massive samosas filled with seasoned potatoes, green peas, and lentils were great. Wrapped in a delicious and crispy coating, that first bite was packed with so much flavor. In addition, the dish also comes with sauces and chutneys, and each one adds another layer to the already tasty bite.
Next was the main course: chicken tikka biryani.
Big chunks of boneless chicken tikka served in long-grain rice cooked with saffron and done in Mughlai style, which is considered to be the most authentic version of biryani.
The colors and smells were intoxicating, and that first bit of rice was lovely. Of course, I had to have some of that chicken and it was delicious.
Now, I wasn’t going to enjoy Indian food without naan.
The traditional bread was so warm and soft. However, I got garlic naan, which elevated the taste and scent. Ripping pieces off and using them to scoop up the rice and chicken–and with the aforementioned chutneys on hand–made the biryani one of the best meals ever.
Typically, I always order saag paneer (and Bombay Palace serves a delicious one) but there are times I need to try something else. Biryani is always an excellent second option.
Lunch at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center
A couple weeks ago, I visited the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center (IPCC), located along 12th Street, in Albuquerque. According to their website, the IPCC seeks to preserve Pueblo culture and advance understanding of the Pueblo people’s accomplishments and evolving history. Coming from the Northeast, I haven’t had the opportunity to visit such a place and definitely took the opportunity while in town.
Before exploring the grounds, however, which includes a museum, gallery space, and a permanent exhibit called “We Are of This Place: The Pueblo Story,” stopped for lunch at Indian Pueblo Kitchen.
Entrance to the restaurant is in the main lobby of the IPCC, right in front of the admission desk. While waiting to be seated, there are an array of items scattered throughout the lobby to look at, along with brochures and a calendar of events to browse through.
Once seated, one of the items on the menu that immediately jumped out at me were the blue corn onion rings. Instead of the typical batter, these onions rings are crusted with blue corn, which is a staple of both New Mexican and native cuisine.
Served alongside green chile ranch and salsa de árbol, these onion rings were dense. However, despite the breading being a bit thicker, it was still crispy and the delicious onion taste came through.
Then, the main course: prime rib fry bread dip.
Native American beef cooked with roasted green chile and grilled onions, and served inside a Pueblo fry bread. Of course, had to take a peak inside before diving in.
Served with a red chile au jus, this was a hearty lunch. The delicious fry bread was filled with the meaty mix and it’s definitely one of the best lunches I’ve had in New Mexico.
Afterwards, made my into the IPCC and towards the courtyard, where they host a Cultural Dance Program every weekend.
According to the IPCC, “The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center is the only place in North America to offer Native American dances every weekend year-round, showcasing dance groups from the 19 Pueblos of New Mexico, as well as our neighboring Tribal Nations.”
After lunch and the dance program, wandered the grounds and learned about the history of the area and the 19 Pueblos of New Mexico, along with local exhibitions.
At the time, they had the Pivot exhibit, which featured artwork using skateboard decks.
The IPCC was an unforgettable experience and is a must-see for visitors.
DoesThatHelp 