Anand Sweets to expand retail operations, eyeing overseas markets with frozen foods

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June 20, 2023

Bengaluru-based Anand Sweets & Savouries Ltd is making significant strides in expanding its reach within the domestic market. The company has set its sights on several prominent cities, including Kochi, Chennai, and even Dubai. In addition to this geographical expansion, Anand Sweets & Savouries is also planning to diversify its product range by venturing into the frozen foods segment. This strategic move aims to tap into the lucrative markets of the United States and the United Kingdom. By entering these international markets and offering frozen food options, the company aims to broaden its customer base and capitalize on new business opportunities.

Anand, established in 1988, presently runs a total of 17 stores, with 15 located in Bengaluru and two in Kochi. Out of these stores, twelve also incorporate quick service restaurants.

Arvind Dadu, Managing Director, Anand Sweets and Savouries Ltd, said, “In Bengaluru, we are planning to add 10 stores by 2025. We are looking to set up two stores each in Kochi and Chennai. Each store will be set up with approximately INR 3 crore investments. Our long term plans include expanding to other cities within India, including Mumbai and Delhi.”

“We are also firming up our global foray. By the end of this year, we will launch our first store in Dubai. We currently export our snacks and some sweets to Dubai. Witnessing the demand for our exports, we are in the process of setting up a store and also manufacturing our products locally in Dubai,” he added.

In addition to Dubai, Anand engages in exporting its products to Oman, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain. Furthermore, the company has intentions to expand its presence and enter the markets of Australia, Singapore, and Qatar.

“We are also venturing into the frozen product category to diversify our export range. We plan to introduce frozen breads, parathas, patties, and samosas into our export portfolio, specifically targeting the USA and UK markets,” Dadu said.

“By expanding our product offerings to include frozen products, we aim to tap into the convenience and international appeal of these items among the Indian diaspora,” he added.

The company, with its 2 lakh sq feet manufacturing facility located in Jigani, Bengaluru, is in the process of establishing an additional unit specifically dedicated to producing a variety of snacks, including beloved traditional favorites like murukku and chakkli. Additionally, the company has diversified its operations into several categories, including retail, quick-service restaurants (QSR), e-commerce, quick commerce, corporate gifting, daily essentials, health foods, exports, and now fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG).

“We are also present in dark stores, as part of our omni channel retail approach. We’re essentially a combination of retail and online and FMCG. Our roots are retail, but expansion and growth are coming from online and FMCG. Therefore, we have an omni channel approach.” Dadu said.

Anand’s products can be found on popular food delivery platforms such as Swiggy and Zomato, as well as quick commerce platforms like Swiggy Instamart, Blinkit, and others.

“These platforms deliver products from our own stores as well as some dark stores/cloud kitchens in partnership with Rebel Foods. Online is a rapidly growing segment and currently 15% of our orders come from there.” Dadu said.

The expansion of the family-run business is being financed through a combination of internal accruals and a portion of bank loans.

“We are, however, exploring an IPO in the next three to five years.” he added.

Indian pet food brand Drools secures $60 Million investment from L Catterton, valuing the company at $600 Million

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June 20, 2023

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Drools, an Indian pet food brand, has secured a $60 million investment from L Catterton, a US-based private equity (PE) firm affiliated with LVMH. This investment values Drools at $600 million and grants L Catterton a 10% ownership stake in the brand.

This marks a significant milestone in India’s pet care startup sector, representing a substantial investment. Drools intends to utilize the funds to enhance its production capacity, streamline operations, and fortify its distribution network. Additionally, the funding will be allocated towards marketing initiatives and expanding the team through new hires, all aimed at facilitating the company’s future growth.

In addition, the pet food brand has plans to broaden its offline presence by entering retail stores. Currently, Drools boasts a wide distribution network encompassing 34,000 retail outlets throughout India. Moreover, Drools leverages major ecommerce marketplaces and its own website to facilitate online sales.

Established by Fahim Sultan in 2010, Drools has experienced remarkable growth on a global scale, successfully exporting its products to more than 22 countries, such as Australia, Israel, and the UAE. Despite the ongoing conflict with Ukraine, the brand intends to enter the Russian market this year. Furthermore, Drools has its sights set on entering the US market in the near future.

Fahim Sultan, the Founder of Drools, highlighted that the funding signifies the company’s strong emphasis on sustainable long-term growth, positioning it as a crucial element within its comprehensive strategy.

“This partnership will unlock a new phase of growth as India’s developing pet market matures across metros, as well as Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities. This funding milestone enables us to further solidify our position in the market and continue our journey towards creating a positive impact in the pet food industry,” added Sultan.

Dr Shashank Sinha, CEO and veterinarian at Drools laid down the company’s plans with the funding, saying, “We are thrilled to have secured this funding, which will play a vital role in driving our company’s growth and expansion strategies. With the support of our new partner, we will strengthen our production capabilities, expand our retail footprint, and invest in strategic marketing initiatives.”

The pet food brand has revealed that it currently operates three production facilities along with a consolidated warehouse facility, covering an extensive area of 8 Lakh square feet. Within its product range, the brand offers an impressive selection of 650 Stock Keeping Units (SKUs), with 50% of the prescription diet originating from the brand itself.

“What truly differentiates Drools is its ability to manufacture high-quality products across the price ladder and make them available to pet parents via every relevant channel, be it online on Amazon or Flipkart, or offline in over 34,000 points of sale spanning speciality vet shops, veterinary clinics, and general trade stores,” commented Anjana Sasidharan, a partner in L Catterton Asia.

iD Fresh Food plans relaunch in the US with popular products, eyes international expansion and diverse product lineup

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June 20, 2023

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iD Fresh Food is gearing up for a fresh start in the US this year, as confirmed by a top company executive. After facing a setback last year, the company is determined to relaunch its operations successfully. As part of this revitalization, iD Fresh Food plans to introduce two popular food products, namely parotta and chapati, into the US market.

According to PC Musthafa, the CEO and Co-Founder, the company ventured into the US market in April 2022 with its immensely popular product, parotta. Regrettably, the endeavor did not achieve the anticipated success due to various distribution obstacles.

The company further extended its reach to various international markets, such as Saudi Arabia, the UK, and, to a limited extent, Singapore. Currently, its international operations account for roughly one-third of its overall revenue.

Furthermore, iD Fresh has strategic plans to set up six factories on an international scale.

In addition to expanding its market presence, iD Fresh has an exciting lineup of products scheduled for launch this year. Elaborating , the CEO said, “The new product development initiatives will be aimed at solving consumer problems and will be free from any chemicals or preservatives. The products being planned include ready-to-cook batters, Indian bread, fresh breakfast food items, frozen food, and a health portfolio comprising both food and beverages.”

It is working on nine sets of products and intends to launch a couple of them in the next few quarters.

According to the CEO, iD Fresh manages a diverse range of product portfolios including wet batter, dairy, parotta, coffee, and more. The wet batter and parotta segments are particularly prominent, accounting for an estimated market share of approximately 70-75 percent.

Moreover, in terms of revenue contribution, the wet batter segment constitutes approximately 38-39 percent of the company’s total revenues. The parotta segment holds a significant share as well, accounting for around 30 percent of the revenue. The dairy segment, on the other hand, contributes approximately 15 percent to the overall revenue of the company.

The company claims to have recorded consistent growth, achieving an annual turnover of INR 524 crore in FY23, and is expecting to close FY24 at around INR 700 crore. Going forward, the spokesperson stated, “Regarding profitability this year, we anticipate a growth of approximately 40 percent and a close-to-double-digit EBITDA.”

While there are currently no immediate plans to secure additional funds, iD Fresh has already raised an impressive sum of around INR 300 crore thus far.

Food delivery aggregators contribute one-third of eateries’ revenue: JM Financial report

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June 20, 2023

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food delivery app — (Representative Image)

Despite the fact that approximately 75% of restaurants have their own direct ordering channels, including their own apps, websites, social media connections, and direct tele-calling, they still rely on food delivery aggregators like Zomato and Swiggy for nearly one-third of their revenue.

According to a recent report by JM Financial, which surveyed over 135 restaurants across the top 10 cities, it was found that over 85% of these restaurants increase the prices on their online menus compared to their dine-in menu prices. This adjustment is made to offset the high commissions and discounts imposed by food delivery aggregators.

“While, theoretically, the organised food services industry can survive without the presence of aggregators, practically that is unlikely to ever happen. Even some of the branded, chain restaurants mentioned that they have limited bargaining power over aggregators on account of the latter’s sheer size, customer loyalty and diversified supplier base,” said the report.

Despite the significant role played by food delivery aggregators in boosting demand, the National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI) argues that these dominant players are not irreplaceable. Over the past few years, there has been ongoing friction between restaurants and aggregators regarding the high commission rates charged, which restaurants claim significantly impact their profit margins.

Anurag Katriar, Founder at Indigo Hospitality and NRAI Trustee, said, “For the restaurant business, their contribution should not be more than 15% on an average, while QSRs and cloud kitchens largely survive on these food aggregators. There is a strong duopoly in the delivery space currently but survival, especially for small restaurants, is a challenge despite strong sales growth. The ecosystem is so unhealthy that no one, neither aggregators nor restaurants are making profit, clearly indicating that the current terms needs to be reworked, which has been an ongoing process.”

According to JM Financial, the average commissions reported by restaurants amounted to 27% of the average order value. However, it is important to note that this figure is likely inflated by the 18% Goods and Services Tax (GST) that aggregators are obligated to collect from restaurants in addition to their own commissions. When accounting for this factor, the actual commissions could range from 22% to 23%.

Swiggy stated that its food marketplace has played a pivotal role in increasing sales for 280,000 restaurants. By acting as a marketing tool, Swiggy attracts a diverse customer base actively seeking various dining experiences, thereby driving demand for these restaurants.

Rohit Kapoor, Chief Executive Officer at Swiggy Food-Marketplace, said, “Restaurants can focus on creating exceptional culinary experiences while we take care of the delivery. We are dedicated to supporting and empowering the restaurant community, reshaping the food industry landscape to ensure a thriving dining experience not only in metros but also in smaller cities and towns”

According to experts, the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), which enables restaurants to directly sell food to consumers through buyer apps, is still in its early stages. Many restaurants remain uncertain about the process of joining the network. This hesitation persists despite the advantages offered by ONDC, such as no delivery fees for consumers and considerably lower commissions compared to other platforms.

Zomato, in its Q4 earnings call, said a lot of its restaurant partners get a large number of orders directly placed with them either through phone or via own website or apps.

“We welcome any change or any innovation that helps the restaurants industry grow and there are a lot of innovations happening out there. And we will continue watching it and learning from it. At this point, we don’t feel anything is going to come at the cost of our growth as the overall penetration is low. And therefore, there is room for everyone to grow in this market right now,” Akshant Goyal, Chief Financial Officer at Zomato, told analysts last month.

LT Foods eyes substantial revenue growth, targets INR 11,500 Crore in five years

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June 20, 2023

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LT Foods, the owner of the popular basmati brand ‘Daawat,’ has set an ambitious goal of achieving revenues amounting to INR 11,500 crore in the coming five years. This target is driven by their strategic plans to expand the overall basmati category and facilitate a significant shift from unbranded products to their trusted branded offerings.

In the financial year ending on March 31, 2023 (FY23), LT Foods recorded consolidated revenues of INR 6,979 crore. Looking ahead, the company anticipates a substantial growth trajectory, with projected revenues of approximately INR 10,000 crore within the next four years.

According to Ritesh Arora, the CEO of LT Foods for India and Far East Business, consumers have become increasingly health-conscious and focused on hygiene in the post-Covid era.

During a media interaction, Arora mentioned that approximately 50% of basmati-consuming households consist of branded consumers. Arora also highlighted a noticeable transition from loose basmati to packaged basmati. Additionally, considering the growth in population and the rising number of households, there is an expectation of gaining a larger market share.

According to Arora, exports contribute to approximately 60-65% of the firm’s total revenues. However, Arora expressed optimism that the domestic market in India would experience faster growth compared to the export market.

“Per capita income is going up, more people are getting added to the middle class segment… multiple factors will come into play in the next five years that will boost the economy,” he said.

As LT Foods steps up its play in the foods space, the share of value-added products would increase. “We started this initiative a couple of years ago. Today, ready-to-eat or ready-to-cook contribute around 2.5 per cent of our revenues. We are focusing on this segment and growing this,” Arora said.

Last year, LT Foods introduced biryani kits in the value-added segment. “We have got very good response from the market and we plan to scale it up this year,” he said. In the US, ready-to-heat products have been launched.

“In the next five to six years, we are targeting that the new products should be 10 percent of the company’s revenues,” Arora said.

Margins within the value-added segment exhibited a notable increase, ranging between 35-40 percent.

“We are a foods company and we will diversify our offering,” Arora said.

In accordance with this, LT Foods purchased a majority stake of 51% in Golden Star Trading, a US-based company renowned for its jasmine rice brand, during the previous year.

Arora expressed the company’s willingness to consider mergers and acquisitions both in the global and domestic markets.

“As an organisation, we are open to exploring proposals,” he said.

Coca-Cola HBC to acquire renowned Finlandia vodka brand in $220 Million deal

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June 20, 2023

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Coca-Cola HBC has recently announced an agreement to acquire the renowned Finlandia vodka brand from Brown-Forman, a leading player in the spirits industry.

The Coca-Cola bottler, which also distributes Brown-Forman products in nine markets, is to pay $220m for Finlandia and Brown-Forman Finland, the subsidiary housing the brand.

In 2004, Brown-Forman acquired full ownership of Finlandia after purchasing the remaining shares from the Finnish state-owned company Altia. Prior to the transaction, Brown-Forman already held 80% of the business.

Created in 1970, some 2.7m nine-litre cases of Finlandia are sold each year, according to data released by Coca-Cola HBC. The brand’s prospective new owner said 60% of Finlandia’s sales are generated in its markets, which include the Russian Federation, Armenia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Romania, Bulgaria and Serbia.

Coca-Cola’s CEO, Zoran Bogdanovic, expressed his enthusiasm for the agreement, referring to it as an exceptional and locally significant prospect that will bolster the expansion of their on-premise operations in a broader range of markets.

He added, “The proven complementarity of our premium spirits business with our strong NARTD [non-alcoholic ready-to-drink] portfolio enables us to offer solutions for a broad range of 24/7 consumption occasions, particularly socialising moments. We view this as an attractive investment and a natural evolution of our role as one of Finlandia’s distribution partners, further attesting to the strength of our time-tested and wide-ranging partnership with Brown-Forman.”

Nordic wine and spirits house Anora distills and bottles Finlandia. It also distributes the vodka in Finland, Sweden and Norway. Anora CEO Pekka Tennilä said the company “looks forward to continuing and deepening the strategic partnership with Coca-Cola HBC”.

In March, Brown-Forman incurred a non-cash impairment charge amounting to $96 million concerning the Finlandia vodka brand. The company stated that the impairment was attributed to increased interest rates and input costs, along with the adverse effects resulting from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

At the time, Brown-Forman CEO Lawson Whitting said, “Obviously, Russia and then not only Russia but also the countries that touch it all around there are all very, very weak and so it’s just been a tough situation.

“As you all know, it is a regional brand for us. It’s not really even sold in much of the world at this point in time anymore. It is an important brand in certain countries, particularly in eastern Europe. The suspension of the business in Russia was the biggest single factor that made it so difficult, but we’re going to continue trying to improve the performance of the brand and continue to fight through what is a very difficult situation.”

In a client communication, analysts from AllianceBernstein characterized Finlandia’s recent performance as “lackluster” and highlighted its contribution of 2% to Brown-Forman’s overall net sales.

The analysts pointed out that within the past five years, Brown-Forman has experienced a decline in absolute dollar terms specifically within the vodka category, making it the only category where net sales have decreased.

“Net, the divestment improves Brown-Forman’s top-line growth outlook from both a volume and mix perspective,” the analysts added.

In a statement, Whiting said, “We believe Coca-Cola HBC is well-suited to support Finlandia’s future stages of development.”

In August 2020, Coca-Cola HBC announced the cessation of production and sales of The Coca-Cola Company’s brands in Russia. Nevertheless, the company specified its commitment to manufacturing and distributing the local brands Dobry, Rich, and Moya Semya in the region, operating under the name Multon Partners.

Dabur India achieves excellence in investments, wins Asset Triple A Awards 2023

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June 20, 2023

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Dabur India Ltd., a renowned Ayurveda company, has announced that it was honored with the prestigious Asset Triple A Awards 2023 in the liquidity and investments solution category. The announcement was made in a press release on Monday.

Furthermore, it emphasized that Dabur is the exclusive recipient of this award in India for the year 2023.

P.D. Narang, Group Director, Dabur India Ltd, said, “We are excited and proud to receive this prestigious Award. We would like to thank the entire Team of IBS Fintech India Pvt. Ltd for the award. The Asset Triple A Awards 2023 will motivate us to work better in future and we are confident that we will leave no stone unturned to fulfil our commitments.”

Speaking on the occasion, Dabur India Ltd Company Secretary, Ashok Jain said, “We are happy to receive The Asset Triple A Awards 2023 for Liquidity and Investments Solution Category to Dabur India Limited this year. The Asset Triple A Awards are the pre-eminent recognition for those that have excelled in their respective industry. The award reflects unparalleled industry understanding to be able to distinguish best-in-class organizations.”

The Asset Triple A Treasurise (Treasury, Trade, Supply Chain, Risk, ESG) Awards are presented every year to recognize companies and financial institutions that have successfully introduced or facilitated initiatives in areas such as corporate treasury management, trade finance, supply chain, and risk management. These awards honor both corporate entities (Triple A Client Awards) and financial service providers (Triple A Service Provider Awards), acknowledging outstanding achievements at the country/territory and regional levels across Asia Pacific, the Middle East, Europe, and North America.

The awards are adjudicated by The Asset’s board of editors, the release added.

Founded in 1884 by the Burman family in the bustling bylanes of Calcutta, Dabur India Ltd. has emerged as a formidable FMCG company. According to the brand’s website, it boasts revenues exceeding INR 10,889 crore and a market capitalization of over INR 100,000 crore. With a rich history spanning several decades, Dabur India Ltd. has solidified its position as a key player in the industry.

According to its website, Dabur India Ltd. possesses a diverse portfolio consisting of more than 250 herbal/ayurvedic products. Within its FMCG segment, the company proudly showcases nine brands that cater to various consumer needs. In the healthcare domain, Dabur offers renowned products such as Dabur Chyawanprash, Dabur Honey, Dabur Honitus, Dabur Pudin hara, and Dabur Lal Tail. For personal care, their notable brands include Dabur Amla, Vatika, and Dabur Red Paste. Additionally, Dabur has established its presence in the food and beverages category with the popular brand Real.

With a rich history spanning 138 years, Dabur India Ltd. operates in a diverse range of segments. These encompass healthcare, hair care, oral care, skin care, home care, hygiene, and food and beverage. The company prides itself on its extensive distribution network, which reportedly reaches 6.9 million retail outlets. This network boasts a strong presence in both urban and rural markets, showcasing Dabur’s wide reach and penetration across various regions.

The ayurveda brand’s products are available in over 120 countries across the globe with Middle East, SAARC countries, Africa, US, Europe and Russia being its biggest markets. Dabur’s overseas revenue accounts for over 27% of the total turnover, the brand mentioned on its website.

Alcobev startup Cartel & Bros receives investment boost from bollywood actor Sanjay Dutt

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June 20, 2023

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Actor Sanjay Dutt has recently invested in the alcobev startup Cartel & Bros, as confirmed by executives of the newly-founded company. Cartel & Bros aims to import and retail a portfolio of liquor brands in India.

According to Mokksh Sani, one of the five partners of the startup and promoter of liquor retail chain Living Liquidz, the startup’s initial offering is Glenwalk, a blended Scotch whisky brand imported from Scotland. Following this, the company plans to introduce brands of vodka, tequila, and single malt in the future.

Additional investors in the venture include Manesh Sani, who is also representing Living Liquidz, Jittin Merani from Drinq bar academy, and Rohan Nihalani, the promoter of Morgan Beverages.

Sani said Cartel & Bros has leased a factory in Scotland and that the company will price its products to make them accessible to a larger group of young consumers.

“We believe our collaboration has the ability to offer consumers accessible Scotch,” he said.

But alcobev is a challenging business, with complex regulation, multiple state-level taxation and price-control. “Yes it is a regulated market, but regulations exist in every business. India is a young country where consumers are willing to experiment,” Sani said.

This development coincides with India’s emergence as one of the rapidly expanding markets for alcohol sales. In terms of volume, the country has surpassed France and become the largest Scotch whisky market for the UK. According to data from the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA), imports witnessed a remarkable 60% increase in 2022 compared to the previous year.

Breaking stereotypes, savoring diversity: 7 LGBTQ+ owned cafes and restaurants in India redefining the culinary landscape!

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June 20, 2023

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India’s culinary landscape is as diverse as its culture, and in recent years, it has witnessed a significant transformation with the emergence of LGBTQ+ owned cafes and restaurants. These establishments not only serve delicious food but also serve as platforms for breaking stereotypes, promoting inclusivity, and celebrating the LGBTQ+ community. By providing a safe and welcoming space for all individuals, irrespective of their sexual orientation or gender identity, these establishments have become pioneers in redefining the culinary scene in India. In this article, we will explore seven LGBTQ+ owned cafes and restaurants across the country that are making a mark with their unique offerings and inclusive ethos.

Le Flamington, Pune

Located in the vibrant city of Pune, Le Flamington stands as a testament to love and passion. Founded by Khuzaan Dalal and his partner Taha Khan, this charming Parisian-style cafe is a result of their shared vision and dedication. Having met on a dating app in 2012, the couple decided to take their relationship to the next level by venturing into the culinary world together in 2017. Le Flamington is renowned for its single-origin chocolates, artisanal international breads, viennoiserie, great coffee, and their signature dessert, The Grey, which draws inspiration from the popular book “50 Shades of Grey.”

Address: 88, East Ave, Palace View Society, Ramwadi, Kalyani Nagar, Pune-411014

People’s Choice Cafe, Hyderabad

As the first queer cafe in Hyderabad, People’s Choice Cafe holds a special place in the hearts of the LGBTQ+ community and its allies. Founded by Hephzibah Smith, an LGBTQ+ ally, and her business partner Mohammed Adam, this cafe radiates colors, not only through its vibrant decor but also through its diverse menu. From grills and pasta to burgers and milkshakes, People’s Choice Cafe offers a range of delicious offerings to satisfy every palate. One of the highlights of this cafe is its Rainbow Menu, a special LGBTQ+ tribute served every Sunday.

Address: Near Bhavans, 34-72/1, Rd Number 4, Vivekanandapuram Colony, Sainikpuri, Secunderabad, Telangana- 500056

Chez Jerome – Q Café, Delhi

Nestled in the heart of Delhi, Chez Jerome – Q Café is a delightful haven for the LGBTQ+ community and its allies. Not only does it boast a beautiful theme, but it also offers a stunning view of the iconic Qutub Minar. This establishment, being the first-ever LGBTQ+ cafe in Delhi, holds a significant place in the history of the city’s LGBTQ+ community. Chez Jerome hosts live events, Karaoke nights, and Drag nights, providing a platform for artists to showcase their talent. The cafe’s specially curated gourmet menu includes salads, pastas, lip-smacking raviolis, pizzas, and more.

Address: Mincha Wali Gali, Chatri Wala Kuan, Lado Sarai, New Delhi-110016

Kitty Su, Delhi, and Mumbai

When it comes to nightlife and inclusivity, Kitty Su in Delhi and Mumbai is a shining star in the LGBTQ+ community. Owned by Keshav Suri, an icon of the queer community and the executive director of the LaLit Suri Hospitality group, Kitty Su has become synonymous with diversity and breaking normative gender discourses. The club embraces inclusivity by providing gender-neutral bathrooms, hosting drag performances, and welcoming everyone, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation.

Delhi Address: The Lalit Hotel, Barakhamba Rd, Opp. Modern School, Connaught Place, New Delhi.
Mumbai Address: Ground Floor The LaLit Mumbai, Airport Rd, Navpada, Marol, Andheri East, Mumbai.

DIVA Group of Restaurants

Chef Ritu Dalmia, a prominent figure in the culinary world, has not only established herself as an expert in Italian cuisine but has also become an inspiration for many as a gay woman from a conservative Marwari family. Chef Dalmia, one of the five petitioners who challenged Article 377 in court, has paved the way for LGBTQ+ visibility and acceptance in India. The DIVA Group of Restaurants, owned by Chef Dalmia, stands as a champion of inclusivity, offering exceptional dining experiences along with a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Address: M-8A, M Block Market, Greater Kailash II, New Delhi-110048

Amra Odbhuth Cafe, Kolkata

Kolkata, known for its rich cultural heritage, is home to Amra Odbhuth Cafe, a unique cafe-cum-community center owned by four friends: Upasana Agarwal, Nandini Moitra, Raina Roy, and Kallol Guha. The name of the cafe, “Amra Odbhut,” translates to “we are queer” in Bengali, symbolizing their pride and solidarity. This LGBTQ+-owned establishment strives to mitigate discrimination and prejudices against the community by creating a safe space for queer individuals and their allies. Alongside delicious food, Amra Odbhuth Cafe also hosts various community events, discussions, and workshops.

Address: 27A, Jadavpur E Rd, Bidhanpally, Jadavpur, Kolkata, West Bengal 700032

Edible Archives, Goa

Edible Archives, located in the serene town of Anjuna, Goa, is a proud queer-owned business that stands as a symbol of inclusion and gastronomic excellence. Co-owned by Anumitra Ghosh Dastidar and Shalini Krishan, both queer women, this eatery welcomes guests irrespective of their gender identities or sexual orientations. Edible Archives takes patrons on a culinary journey across India with its ingredient-driven menu, sourcing fresh, seasonal produce directly from local farmers. In addition, they grow many of their ingredients in-house, ensuring the highest quality and a unique dining experience.

Address: 1301, Anjuna Mapusa Rd, Kumbhar Vaddo, Anjuna, Goa 403509

Final thoughts:

The emergence of LGBTQ+ owned cafes and restaurants in India is a testament to the progress the country has made in embracing diversity and breaking stereotypes. These establishments not only offer delectable cuisines but also promote inclusivity, equality, and acceptance. By providing safe spaces for the LGBTQ+ community and its allies, they redefine the culinary landscape and challenge conventional norms. As India continues to evolve, it is heartening to witness the rise of these establishments that celebrate love, diversity, and the joy of savoring delicious food together, irrespective of one’s sexual orientation or gender identity.

French fry SOS: Uncover the mind-blowing hacks to resurrect soggy fries and elevate your snack game!

Secrets & Tips (Steal this trick!)

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June 20, 2023

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French fries, with their crispy and salted exterior, are an irresistible snack enjoyed by people around the world. Whether paired with a juicy burger or as a side to a plate of pasta, these potato delights have a universal appeal. However, the moment those fries cool down and lose their crunch, they become a disappointment. We’ve all experienced the frustration of ordering takeout or delivery, only to find our fries arrive soggy and limp. But fear not! In this article, we will share some mind-blowing hacks to help you revive soggy French fries and elevate your snack game. Get ready to bring those fries back to life with a satisfying crunch!

Stovetop Resurrection Technique

If you prefer using the stovetop method to revive your fries, follow these steps:

Heat a large skillet with a heavy bottom over medium heat.
Use a skillet that provides even heat distribution to ensure consistent cooking.
For each large portion of fries, add approximately 2 tablespoons of cooking oil.
Opt for a high smoke point oil like canola or grape seed oil.
Once the oil is hot, add the fries in a single layer and cook for about a minute.
Placing the fries in a single layer ensures they cook evenly and regain their crispiness.
Using a spatula, flip the fries over and cook for an additional 30 seconds or more.
The flip allows both sides of the fries to crisp up evenly.
Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor.
Turn down the heat, remove the fries from the skillet, and serve them while hot.
Lowering the heat prevents the fries from burning or becoming overly crispy.
Enjoy the revived fries with their newfound crunchiness.

Oven Resurrection Technique

Using the oven can be a game-changer when it comes to reviving the lost crispiness of your fries. Follow these steps to resurrect your soggy fries in the oven:

Preheat the oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit (232 degrees Celsius).
Proper preheating ensures that the fries cook quickly and evenly.
Cover an oven-safe rectangular metal tray with aluminum foil.
The foil prevents the fries from sticking to the tray and makes cleanup easier.
Arrange the fries on the baking sheet without overlapping them.
Overlapping fries can lead to uneven cooking and hinder the revival process.
Consider adding extra salt or other seasonings to enhance the flavor.
Once the oven is preheated, place the baking sheet with the fries inside.
Cook the fries for 2-3 minutes, keeping an eye on them to prevent burning.
Opening the oven and flipping the fries occasionally ensures even crispness.
Once the fries turn golden brown and crispy, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a minute.
Allowing the fries to cool slightly ensures they maintain their newfound crunch.
Serve the hot and revived fries, ready to be enjoyed with your favorite dipping sauce.
Whether it’s ketchup, aioli, or any other sauce, these crispy fries are the perfect companion.

Experimenting with Flavors

While resurrecting your fries is essential, why not take your snack game to the next level by experimenting with different flavors? Here are some ideas to elevate the taste of your fries:

Seasonings: Besides the classic salt, try sprinkling your fries with a variety of seasonings such as garlic powder, paprika, chili powder, or even truffle salt for a gourmet twist.
Cheese and Herbs: Melt some shredded cheese over the fries during the last few minutes of cooking in the oven. Top with chopped fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or rosemary for an extra burst of flavor.
Dips and Sauces: Explore a wide range of dipping sauces beyond traditional ketchup. Experiment with homemade or store-bought sauces like barbecue, ranch, chipotle mayo, or tangy aioli.

Final Thoughts:

Don’t let soggy fries dampen your snacking experience. With the tips and tricks shared in this article, you can revive those limp fries and bring back their satisfying crunch. Whether you choose the stovetop or oven method, remember to use the appropriate cooking oil and pay attention to the cooking time to achieve the desired crispiness. And if you’re feeling adventurous, don’t hesitate to experiment with various flavors and dipping sauces to elevate your snack game. Say goodbye to disappointing fries and hello to a revived and delicious snack that will leave you craving for more. Get ready to impress your taste buds with mind-blowing hacks for resurrecting soggy fries!

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