"I always came up with ideas which were very idiot and stupid. And over the 22 years that I've been cooking, nobody believed in it," he said in his acceptance speech. "I met this guy [Mazumdar] five years back and...I realised he is a bigger idiot and stupid than me because he believes in my ideas. Because he believed in my idiocracy and stupidity, that I'm standing here."
Tomatoes are a staple in Indian cooking, bringing vibrant colour, tanginess, a little sweetness and depth to countless recipes. Their sheer versatility often helps bring a dish together, while their natural acidity balances spices beautifully. Firm ripe tomatoes are essential in cooking, because they hold their texture better, release only just enough juice without turning mushy, and also provide that crucial balance between sweet and sour.
Founding Inday in 2015, Basu Ratnam aimed to change perceptions of Indian food, viewing it as too spicy or suitable only for special occasions. His vision transformed Indian cuisine's reputation in New York, especially among office workers seeking lunch options in a fast-paced environment.
The challenge of opening an Indian restaurant outside India is to balance authenticity and broad appeal, navigating a path between genuine flavors and business profitability.
Tandoori chicken, described as roast chicken Indian fashion, is renowned for its rich flavor thanks to a yogurt marinade, but few at home can replicate its tandoor-cooked quality.
"The Campton Bar & Bistro has been reimagined with vintage charm and neoclassical elements, featuring Indian-inspired cocktails that creatively blend traditional flavors like turmeric and chai. "