What an absolute privilege to have “made the cut” to experience Nidhi and Vik’s sensational ‘Masala Talkies’ supper club in East Belfast.
Started by the couple as a way to make friends after moving from India, this is a unique celebration of Indian vegetarian cookery, where people can apply to attend, and the hosts then curate a guest list of strangers from different walks of life, which all comes together in an evening of incredible flavours, wonderful hospitality, and unexpected connections!
We were invited to “Episode 8”, described as “Somewhere between what we left behind and what we found”; an exploration of where old Indian traditions meet new interpretations, where recipes carried across generations find a new home, and this 6-course Indian Vegetarian Supper was simply stunning.
Starting with Burrata Chaat with velvety burrata, crisp papi, tamarind, mint, and chaat masala, which made a wonderful sharing-style dish to enjoy as we got to know our fellow diners at the beautifully presented monochromatic banqueting table.
To follow, a golden Coconut Arancini, oozing with cheese, seasoned with podi masala, topped by a fragrant curry leaf, on a rich tomato chutney, then fluffy, streetfood-style Mushroom Masala Bao Buns filled with umami-rich glazed mushrooms, pickled onions & crunchy slaw.
For mains, we had flaky Spinach Paneer Borek, finished with a creamy spinach curry, and Khichadi Milanese Saffron, with lentils, vegetables and rice, slow-cooked to risotto perfection, with a crisp papad for scooping up the fragrant, velvety grains.
And Dessert was another totally original fusion of culinary cultures, a Rasmalai Tiramisu; saffron-steeped sponge, reduced milk, cardamom, kewara water, and pistachios. Heavenly!
Many thanks to Nidhi and Vik for allowing us into their home to enjoy such a fabulous feast, and to the engaging and entertaining guests we were lucky enough to meet. And let’s hope some of the stories will remain at that table: IYKYK!
Masala Talkies: Come for the flavours. Stay for the stories.
Instagram Page HERE
