Indulge in Lebanese Cuisine: An Evening to Remember @ Novotel Pune (India) - Till 2nd June

Embark on a gastronomic odyssey at Novotel Pune, where the tantalizing aromas and vibrant flavours of Lebanon await to enrapture your senses. Step into a realm of culinary excellence, where each dish is a masterpiece crafted with precision and passion, promising an experience that transcends mere dining.

Upon entering, I was greeted by a spacious and inviting atmosphere, dynamically lit to create a cosy yet vibrant ambiance. The seating arrangements were thoughtfully designed for comfort, allowing guests to relax and indulge in the culinary delights ahead.

As I settled in, the air was filled with the tantalizing aroma of fresh herbs and spices, instantly transporting me to the streets of Lebanon. The ambiance was further enhanced by the soothing melodies of mild Lebanese music, setting the perfect mood for a memorable dining experience.

The buffet spread was nothing short of impressive, boasting a vast array of Lebanese dishes alongside the regular buffet offerings. From savoury mezze to succulent grilled meats, there was something to satisfy every palate.

To kick-start my culinary journey, I was warmly welcomed with a refreshing glass of fresh orange juice, a delightful touch that set the tone for the evening ahead.

My culinary journey commenced with a simple yet exquisite Falafel, boasting a crispy exterior and a tender interior, seasoned with garlic, onions, parsley, cumin, and coriander. This combination created a savoury bite that was simply irresistible.

Next was the Fatayer Ma Jibin, featuring tender, flaky dough paired with creamy, tangy feta cheese. Herbs like parsley or mint added a fresh, aromatic touch, elevating the overall flavour.

I was particularly enamoured with two stews. Firstly, the Solana Samak, a hearty fish stew with tomatoes, onions, and peppers in a spiced broth. Turmeric added earthiness, cumin provided warmth, and coriander imparted a citrusy note, creating a comforting and flavourful dish.

Following that was the Salona Kusa, a zucchini stew in a tangy tomato-based sauce spiced with garlic and herbs, rendering the zucchini tender and flavourful.

The Dajaj Mishwi was grilled to perfection after marinating in yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, and Middle Eastern spices. The yogurt tenderized the chicken, while the spices infused it with deep, smoky flavours. However, the true marvel was the Dajaj Ma Jazra, combining tender chicken and carrots in a rich tomato-based sauce. The tomatoes provided a deep, savoury base, the garlic added depth, and the sweetness of the carrots balanced the dish perfectly.

Samak Majboos was a traditional Gulf dish with fish and spiced rice. Saffron, cardamom, cloves, and black lime infused the rice with complex flavours, perfectly complemented by the tender, marinated fish.

Given my affinity for potatoes, I thoroughly relished the Farakhe Batata, a comforting dish of chicken and potatoes in a savoury sauce with garlic, onions, and tomatoes. The potatoes were tender and infused with robust flavours.

Lastly, the Maekuruna Ma Sabane featured pasta with sautéed spinach in a creamy or tomato-based sauce. Garlic and onions added depth, while spinach provided earthy freshness, creating a well-balanced and satisfying dish.

Each of these dishes left a lasting impression, expertly showcasing the rich culinary traditions and the transformative magic of their ingredients. The symphony of flavours and textures, meticulously crafted and balanced, highlighted the essence of each component, elevating them to unforgettable gastronomic experiences.

I must state that Chef Jameela Ghani, a master of Lebanese cuisine, brings a simplicity that translates into immense taste. She believes in the understated elegance of pure ingredients, wielding black pepper and salt with a deft touch to create culinary magic. Eschewing fusion trends, Chef Jameela focuses on traditional, authentic home recipes, preserving the heart and soul of Lebanese cooking. As the owner of a specialty restaurant in Bangalore, she is discerning about organizing events, ensuring each one is a reflection of her passion and expertise. Listening to Chef Jameela speak about her creations is a pleasure, as each dish she prepares tells a profound story. Not just a consummate professional, she is a remarkable human being, a quality that shines through in the rich, creative dishes she lovingly crafts.

My deepest gratitude extends to Chef Jameela and her dedicated associates at Novotel, Chef Anil Singh and Chef Abhishek. A special mention is warranted for Chef Henz Saldanha, whose organizational prowess brought this grand event to life. The entire Chef Brigade, especially Rohit, Simran, Yashpal, Rajpal, Hari, and Kamrul, deserves accolades for their collective efforts in creating dishes of immense taste and flavour.

Equally, I must acknowledge the exceptional contributions of Varun (ARM) and his F&B Service team, particularly Ghansham, Muskan, Rahul, Lavina, Shivani, Imliniken, and Rhanbenthung. Their expert service skills ensured a seamless and memorable dining experience.

Special thanks to the entire Marcom Team, especially Nikhil Singh Tomar, who heads the department for extending the invite.

Don’t let this opportunity slip away! With only a few precious days left, seize the chance to immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Lebanese cuisine at Novotel Pune. Allow the allure of our tantalizing dishes to beckon you, drawing you into a realm where every bite is a revelation and every moment a delight.

Prepare yourself to be transported to a world of culinary bliss at Novotel Pune. Your taste buds will thank you, and memories of this unforgettable dining experience will linger long after the final plate has been cleared.

By Manav Kaushik

DON’T WASTE FOOD (DWF)