From 20th September to 20th October, Bombay Borough at DIFC is hosting a unique culinary campaign titled Beyond The Jar, a celebration of India’s rich and diverse fermentation heritage. This experience takes guests on an immersive journey, uncovering the essence of India’s ancient fermentation practices, reimagined for the modern palate. The dishes are a tribute to age-old traditions, thoughtfully blending the past with contemporary global flavors.
Unveiling India’s Ancient Fermentation Techniques
Fermentation is an ancient art that has played a pivotal role in kitchens around the world, and India is no exception. Beyond The Jar brings to life the intricate processes behind India’s regional fermentation techniques, each dish paying homage to the nuanced flavors and methods that have been passed down through generations.
The campaign showcases how these time-honored practices continue to evolve, offering diners an exceptional blend of tradition and innovation. Each plate is a story of the balance between preserving culinary legacies and embracing modern influences. The Ferments Scrapbook offers a living record of these recipes, evolving over time while maintaining their cultural significance.
A Tribute to the Craft of Fermentation
The magic of fermentation lies in its transformative power. It’s not just about preserving food; it’s about enhancing flavors, creating new textures, and elevating ingredients in ways that are both familiar and novel. At Bombay Borough, this alchemy is celebrated through a curated selection of artisanal ferments, crafted in-house to bring out the best of Indian and global influences.
Some of the key ferments featured include:
- Kefir: A fermented milk drink originating from the 19th-century North Caucasus, introduced to India through Karachi.
- Sourdough: Naturally fermented bread, first created by Egyptians and later popularized in India, particularly Goa, in the early 2000s.
- Inji: A tangy pickled blend of ginger, tamarind, and spices, originating from Tamil Nadu and Kerala, now enjoyed worldwide.
- Mit Mirsang: A fiery chili paste from Mangalorean Catholic kitchens, passed down through generations and cherished for its bold flavor.
- Kanji: A refreshing carrot-based drink from the Indus Valley Civilization, popular in Rajasthan for its cooling properties.
- Fermented Rice Batter: A sour mixture of rice and black gram, a staple influenced by Indonesian cuisine, dating back to the 1st century AD.
Innovative Dishes that Bridge the Old and the New
At Bombay Borough, the dishes transcend borders by combining traditional Indian techniques with premium international ingredients. The result is a menu that elevates familiar flavors through creative global pairings. Some of the standout dishes include:
- Grilled Scallop Hooman: Succulent scallops marinated in local spices, grilled to perfection, and served with a tangy kefir and amsul marinade. This dish is a celebration of bold flavors balanced with the lightness of the fermented kefir.
- Truffle & Burrata Sourdough Naan: This unique dish features a sourdough naan topped with earthy truffles, creamy burrata, and caramelized onions. The combination of textures and flavors creates a symphony of richness and sweetness that delights the senses.
- Mit Mirsang King Kish: A modern take on a classic, this spiced fish dish is marinated in the fiery Mit Mirsang chili paste and served with delicate Idiyappams and tomato oil. The blend of traditional and contemporary elements makes this a standout dish.
- Arugula Kanji Vada: A creative twist on the traditional vada, this dish pairs the crispy fritter with sundried tomatoes, creamy cashew cheese, and the herbaceous notes of arugula kanji. It’s a dish that reflects the balance between rustic Indian flavors and modern innovation.
- Egg Kalaki Hopper: A fermented rice hopper cradling a perfectly cooked Kalaki egg, served with a rich kulambu stew. This dish is a celebration of South Indian flavors, brought to life through the art of fermentation.
An Artisanal Presentation of Ferments
To fully immerse guests in the art of fermentation, Bombay Borough offers a special presentation of artisanal ferments, housed in bespoke jars. These jars not only serve as a visual representation of the artistry behind each ferment but also provide diners with an opportunity to explore the delicate intricacies of each creation.
Each ferment tells a story, from its origins in ancient kitchens to its modern-day reinterpretation on the plate. The jars serve as a bridge between the past and the present, offering diners a tangible connection to the rich history of Indian cuisine.
A Limited Edition Culinary Experience
The limited edition menu at Beyond The Jar is more than just a meal – it’s an invitation to indulge in the rare and refined. By marrying ancient techniques with global elements, Bombay Borough offers a dining experience that transcends borders, providing a window into the world of culinary innovation rooted in tradition.
The artisanal dishes, thoughtfully curated and meticulously crafted, reflect the passion for fermentation and the exploration of flavors that define this unique campaign. Each bite is a journey through time, a testament to the enduring relevance of fermentation in the modern culinary world.
Experience Beyond The Jar
If you’re ready to embark on a culinary journey that blends tradition, innovation, and artistry, Beyond The Jar at Bombay Borough is the perfect opportunity. Whether you’re a food enthusiast, a lover of Indian cuisine, or simply curious about the art of fermentation, this campaign offers a dining experience unlike any other.
Date, Timing, and Address:
- 20th September – 20th October 2024
- 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM Daily
- DIFC, Gate Village 3, next to Sotheby’s, Opposite Gate 2
