A sensory explosion that is India!!

Hello Aalayam!!!

After almost a year, we are back, with a short, sweet and evocative picture post about all the beautiful things that evoke such strong feelings about India - the cacophony, the fragrances, the technicolor explosion, and of course, the gastronomic satiation.

I went back home to Bengalooru, after 9 long years. And here's my ode to all things that I love, about my home town.

Love, Supriya

Color, or glorious color!

If only I could purchase everything this vendor was selling!

Move aside the Bauble Bars of the world!

Why don't we get balloons like this over here?

Gorgeous selection, and admirable work ethic 

How many pani pooris can you stuff in your mouth?

Do you recognize this busy shopping complex?

You don't have to wait for summer to grill corn in India!!

Mallige Hoovu!

Tomato Slice on the streets! 

Ondu Lota Bisi Strong Filter Coffee barli

Masala Dosa anyone?

Street vendors

Shopping trips are never complete without a snack break!

Crisssssspy Vades!!

Remember the weights?

Baale Yele Oota!!

Lets have Chaat! - Indian Street Food Special



Tomato Chaat from my Kitchen - Plated and Served "Bengalooru Gaadi" style.

 The one thing I miss about India is the "Chaat". Spicy, Savory plated street food sold by enterprising vendors at every street corner, for instant hunger and craving satisfaction. Pani Puri, Sev Puri, Bhel Puri, Dahi Puri..the list goes on. There is no specific time for consuming these gastronomic delights, but generally the "Chaat" vendors get their mobile kitchens or "Chaat Gaadis" ready for operations after dusk everyday. Students returning home from school, office goers disembarking from the grind of the daily commute, couples young and old out for an evening stroll..all delight in the crunch, bite and kick of these salad-type dishes, which are prepared by tossing cooked and raw ingredients, spices and fritters all in one plate.


Masala Puri from my Kitchen - Diced Onions and Fritters on a bed of Spiced Pea Gravy 

 We find "Chaat" served in "desi" or Indian eating establishments here in the United States, however, nothing compares to the earthy taste and folksy flavors from the gaadis back home.
 

My now famous Global Gobi Manchurian - Fried Cauliflower topped with Spicy Asian Sauce

 So, I started whipping out these delicacies in my Kitchen..to my husband, my friends - Indian and American. My cravings for "Gobi Manchurian" which is India's ode to Chinese cuisine, was sated right in my kitchen. I will pass on my secret recipe to this gorgeous dish if you write to me at aalayaminspiration@gmail.com.

I will leave you with another "Chaat". Relish the casual irreverance of "Chaat". Enjoy your rainy weekend afternoons with a steaming cup of Masala Chai and Chaat...!!

Aloo Tikki Chaat from my kitchen - Potato Cutlets topped with warm Chickpea Gravy

Love,
Supriya.