Jaipur.At a special state dinner held on Monday evening at Rashtrapati Bhavan, the rich culinary heritage of Rajasthan was showcased through an exquisite spread of traditional dishes. Hosted by President Droupadi Murmu in honour of South Korean President Lee Jae-myung, the grand banquet reflected the royal cultural essence of Rajasthan.
The evening was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi along with several Union ministers, adding to the dignity of the occasion. The primary objective of the dinner was to introduce the distinguished guest to the diverse and traditional flavours of Rajasthan.
The specially curated menu was designed by renowned chef Dr. Saurabh Sharma and his team. Praising the culinary experience, Prime Minister Narendra Modi described it as “a शानदार Rajasthani dining experience.” President’s Secretary Deepti Umashankar congratulated Chef Saurabh and his team for representing Rajasthan’s rich culinary heritage on such a prestigious platform and extended her best wishes for their future endeavours. Meanwhile, Shashi Tharoor appreciated the cuisine, noting that the Rajasthani food was both vegetarian and delicious.
Highlights of the Menu:
Chef Saurabh, along with Chef Ravindra Naruka, Chef Himmat Singh, Chef Ratiram Prajapat, and Rashtrapati Bhavan’s Executive Chef Mukesh Kumar, presented Rajasthan through royal platters. The menu featured dishes inspired by regions like Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Bikaner, and Jaipur, along with recipes from royal families, all served with a modern touch.
Signature dishes included Jowar ka Raab, Govind Gatta, Dhungari Palak Mangodi, Chandi wali Dal, Jaisalmeri Pulao, and Gulab Baati Churma, each highlighting the diversity of Rajasthan. Traditional desserts such as Khirand Malpua and Ghevar added sweetness to the experience. Despite modern presentation, the authenticity and traditional essence of each dish were carefully preserved.
Extensive Preparation Behind the Menu:
Sharing his journey, Chef Saurabh credited his mother Dr. Uma Sharma and wife Dr. Neha Sharma for their constant support. He revealed that the team spent nearly one and a half months researching and perfecting each dish, conducting multiple trials before finalizing the menu.
The process involved an in-depth study of Rajasthan’s traditional kitchens, local ingredients, and ancient cooking techniques. Various combinations and methods were experimented with to ensure that every dish excelled not only in taste but also in presentation, reflecting the true identity of Rajasthan. The final selection was made with great care to create an unforgettable international dining experience at the state banquet.