Since the time I tried on an Indian sari, I have always had a fascination with Indian culture and their food. Over the past few years, I have been blessed to be the go-to photographer of a group of Indian ladies for their intimate social events. This would usually mean that I get to eat at the restaurants where they throw their baby showers, bridal showers, birthdays, etcetera. For events like the chatthi, or the prayers before or after marriage, they would usually have it at home. This usually meant I was going to have delicious Indian food, prepared by no less than Kashmir 90% of the time.
After countless events, I have my personal favorites which includes their papad - lentil crisps usually served with masala, but is equally great with mango chutney. The palak paneer is also a favorite of mine. It was a bit funny because I only found out that it was cottage cheese after about 3 events. Being the cheese lover that I am, I love everything about this dish that also has spinach in a rich creamy, tangy sauce. The rogan josh may look a bit similar, but it so so different. It's made with mutton (meat of adult sheep), which has a bit of aftertaste, but is negated by the mix of spices and herbs making a seriously saporous sauce that is distinctly Indian. Last but not the least, goodness gracious, is the gulab jamun - deep fried milk balls so soft and chewy in a saccharine syrup with hints of cardamom and other Indian ingredient. It's kinda gross, but I swear I could have eaten about 4 pieces (after a full meal) at one time. That's how good their gulab jamun is! read more