Taste the Past: Ishaara’s ‘Undivided Punjab’ Menu Revives Lost Recipes
Ishaara, renowned for offering food for the senses, has introduced its latest culinary experience, ‘Undivided Punjab’, at its Phoenix Palassio outlet. Nestled within Lucknow’s premier shopping and lifestyle destination, Phoenix Palassio, the restaurant brings a specially curated menu that revives the lost flavors of undivided Punjab, celebrating its rich and diverse gastronomic heritage.
Inspired by the traditions of pre-partition Punjab, ‘Undivided Punjab’ is more than just a menu. It is a journey through time, crafted with recipes that have been passed down for generations. The menu showcases authentic dishes prepared using age-old cooking techniques, ensuring an experience that is both nostalgic and indulgent.
Speaking at the launch, Mr. Sanjeev Sareen, Senior Center Director, Phoenix Mills Ltd., expressed his enthusiasm for this unique addition to Lucknow’s food scene. “At Phoenix Palassio, we aim to offer not just a premium shopping experience but also a world-class culinary journey. Ishaara’s ‘Undivided Punjab’ menu is a testament to the rich and diverse food culture that we want to celebrate with our patrons. We are delighted to host such an exceptional offering that brings together tradition and fine dining,” he said.
The menu begins with Kaanji, a fermented drink known for its refreshing tang and digestive benefits. Moving into the appetizers, the vegetarian selection features Bibi Kaur De Alu, a delightful preparation of spiced potatoes, Multani Paneer Tikka, stuffed with a flavorful Anardana chutney, Bhishan De Kebab, a lotus stem delicacy, and Khumbh Ki Seekh, a mushroom-based seekh kebab with deep, earthy flavors. For non-vegetarian lovers, the spread includes the ever-popular Amritsari Chaap, the succulent Boti Kebab, the smoky and aromatic Baluchi Tikka, the melt-in-your-mouth Chicken Dum Ke Kebab, and Daleema, a slow-cooked, minced meat delicacy rich in spices.
As guests move to the main course, they can indulge in a selection of traditional vegetarian dishes like Dhingri Shabhnam, a rich and creamy mushroom preparation, Adrak Te Gobi Da Keema, a finely minced cauliflower dish infused with ginger, Dabi Arbi Ka Saalan, featuring colocasia in a flavorful curry, and Burrata Saag, a fusion of creamy burrata with classic Punjabi-style mustard greens. Non-vegetarian highlights include the indulgent Mardana Murgh Malai Wala Chicken, the bold and spicy Batala Chicken Curry, the unique Matar Nukta, featuring tender green peas in a robust gravy, Gosht Ki Bhurri, a delicacy made with slow-cooked mutton, and Shadi Wala Korma, a rich and aromatic wedding-style chicken curry.
No Punjabi meal is complete without pulses and rice. This menu brings forward the comforting Lahori Channa Dal, slow-cooked to perfection, alongside fragrant rice options like Shikampuri Pulav, a luxurious dish where chicken stuffed with nuts is cooked with aromatic spices, and Malta Pulav, a unique rice preparation infused with the citrusy sweetness of oranges. To accompany these rich flavors, guests can enjoy Kesar Di Paronthi, a saffron-infused layered bread, or Ajwaini Paratha, subtly flavored with carom seeds.
The experience concludes on a sweet note with Dodha with Ice Cream, a classic Punjabi dessert that balances the richness of caramelized milk solids with the refreshing contrast of ice cream.
Beyond its exquisite flavors, Ishaara offers an ambiance that blends the rustic charm of Punjabi dhabas with an upscale dining experience. The restaurant’s philosophy of food for the senses extends beyond the palate as it also fosters inclusivity. Its staff is trained in sign language, making each dining experience unique and heartwarming.
Guests at the launch were captivated by the authenticity of the menu, with one diner remarking, “The flavors remind me of my childhood. Every dish brings a sense of nostalgia and tradition.”
Food lovers in Lucknow are invited to experience ‘Undivided Punjab’ at Ishaara, Phoenix Palassio, where every dish tells a story of heritage and culinary artistry. This menu is a rare opportunity to savor Punjab’s rich traditions, making it an experience not to be missed.
