Situated amid the picturesque folds of the Aravali Mountains, the Courtyard by Marriott Aravali Resort recently hosted an enchanting evening that promised more than just a meal — it offered a deep dive into the heart of Himachali cuisine through its Himachali Dham Special Dinner. As we walked into The Aravali Kitchen, the elegant setting immediately suggested that this was not just any dinner, but a cultural journey.
The event, running from April 25th to 30th, was meticulously designed to celebrate the rich, culinary traditions of Himachal Pradesh. Under the guidance of Executive Chef Dinesh Rana, the menu was a vibrant tapestry of flavours, each dish telling its own story of the region’s heritage.
The dinner began with a delectable array of Madras—Palak Paneer Ka Madra, Safed Chane Ka Madra, and the particularly unique Mukundbadi Ka Madra. Each dish was an explosion of authentic flavours, rich in spices and cooked to perfection, representing various communities within Himachal. The Palak Paneer Ka Madra was creamy and comforting, with spinach and paneer perfectly absorbing the aromatic spices. Chuhare Ka Khatta followed, offering a tangy counterpoint to the creamy richness of the Madras. This dish, made from dried dates, was a perfect blend of sweet and sour and was a refreshing palate cleanser before the next course.
The meal concluded on a sweet note with Moong Dal Ka Halwa and Meethi Bath. The halwa was delightfully dense yet flaky, with a subtle sweetness that was not overpowering, while the Meethi Bath offered a unique taste texture, both of which encapsulated the essence of Himachali desserts.
Beyond the food, the ambience of The Aravali Kitchen added layers of immersion to the dining experience, with its subtle decor and soft lighting complementing the thematic essence of the dinner. For those fortunate enough to attend this limited culinary event or want to visit after reading our experience, go for it as it is not just a meal but a memorable journey through the tastes and traditions of Himachal Pradesh. It’s an experience that we would recommend to anyone seeking to understand the true spirit of this remarkable region.