The residents of Varanasi take their food seriously. Textures, aromas, freshness and variety are the keynotes to these culinary pursuits. Satvik, raajsic and taasmic culinary differentiation, introduced by Ayurvedic traditions, has long held sway amidst Varanasi’s Hindu community.
Everything which arrives at mealtimes is given the most detailed attention. From chai to chutneys… from paans to poha. Whether it’s street food or exotic fare for a festive occasion–the eye for detail brings out the best in the spices used and the freshness of the produce that is used.
Simple but soul-stirring meals await you in the homes and ancient streets of Varanasi. The goodness, the nutrition, the purity of the food, its flavour and freshness all remain intact as the very lightest of touches go into the use of oil and spices.
Roasted and ground black sesame seeds, black pepper, red chillies, curry leaves, asafoetida, saffron, turmeric, rose petals–delicate fragrances and strong aromas, textures and colours come together in an explosion of hallucinatory exotica as you walk down the legendary spice trails of Varanasi. Being jostled by housewives and elbowed by busy vendors and helpers doesn’t trouble you a bit as the bewildering scene and heady aromas transport you into a world of sensory pleasures.
You will be just blown away by this vivid epicurean journey of experiential delights as you look and choose and shop for spices at Gola Deenanath - the wholesale spice market. Don’t be surprised if you find your head and senses swimming with all that knowledge and your encounters with such a great variety of spices, Grab your bag–full of goodies from the spice market and hasten to the home of your host where you will have the privilege of learning how to cook a local favourite. Here, you will top up on even more information about the quality and quality of spices that go into each dish for the best results. Later, dig into a scrumptious meal, bathed in the warmth of the convivial environment of a joyful family get together.