History on a Plate: Timeless Flavours of Colonial Anglo-Indian Cuisine at Raen – The Chef’s Studio, The Leela Hyderabad

Step back in time and savor the rich, nostalgic legacy of Anglo-Indian culinary traditions! “History on a Plate – Timeless Flavours of Colonial Anglo-Indian Cuisine” was a truly unique food festival and pop-up that recently graced Raen – The Chef’s Studio at The Leela Hyderabad. This special event was a culinary journey through the British Raj Era, showcasing heritage dishes with recipes that have stood the test of time and are steeped in history.

The pop-up featured a curated selection of dishes from fascinating origins, including:

• Dak Bungalows: Rustic, hearty meals once served at inspection bungalows along old postal routes, prepared for British officers during their tours across India.
• Army Camps: Robust and signature curries that graced the mess tents of renowned units like the Bengal Lancers, made famous by historical figures such as Col. Skinner and Maj. Grey.
• Railway Dining Cars: Iconic lamb and chicken curries, alongside classic cutlets, that were once served aboard the legendary Great Indian Peninsular Railway (also known as The Blue Train), which embarked on its maiden voyage from Bombay to Calcutta in 1870.
• Tea Gardens & Colonial Country Clubs: Dishes reflecting the refined tastes and culinary fusions of these exclusive establishments.

Conceived and Curated by a Culinary Historian

This one-of-a-kind culinary experience was conceived and curated by Ms. Bridget White-Kumar, an acclaimed cookbook author, culinary historian, and food consultant. Ms. White-Kumar has dedicated her life to the noble pursuit of reviving and preserving the lost recipes of Colonial Anglo-Indian Cuisine, bringing forgotten dishes back to life—dishes once masterfully prepared by Khansamas (traditional cooks) and chefs during the colonial period.

With eight acclaimed cookbooks to her name, Ms. White-Kumar’s expertise is undeniable. Two of her works have even received awards at the prestigious Gourmand World Cookbook Awards, often considered the culinary world’s equivalent of the Oscars, in both 2012 and 2023.

A Journey Through Robust Flavours

The pop-up offered a nostalgic culinary journey, featuring the rustic and robust flavors that once graced the tables of British officers across India. Imagine indulging in:

• Hearty Dak Bungalow Dishes: Simple yet satisfying meals that sustained travelers and officers on their journeys.
• Robust Army Camp Curries: Bold and flavorful curries that fueled soldiers in the field.
• Railway Culinary Legends: The classic tastes that defined luxury travel during the British Raj.
• Colonial and Portuguese Fusion: A truly unique blend of British, Portuguese, and Indian culinary influences, evident in legacy dishes like Mulligatawny Soup, Country Captain Chicken, Anglo-Indian Roasts, Vindaloo, and Tangy Curries. Each dish offered a complete colonial experience.

The curated spread included an array of Soups, Starters, Main Courses, Salads, and Desserts, with each dish presenting a “bite of history.” Their names and flavors evoked the charm and elegance of a bygone era, allowing diners to truly taste history.

This pop-up was truly more than just a meal; it was a living archive of Anglo-Indian heritage, presented by one of the most passionate and authentic voices in the field. Ms. Bridget White-Kumar beautifully brings history to the table, with food that tells the story of an era, of innovation, and of cultures interwoven through cuisine.