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Hyatt Pune Welcomes Pankaj Shahi as Executive Chef

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chef

yatt Pune has recently announced that it has appointed Pankaj Shahi as its new Executive Chef, effective from February 20th, 2023. In this role, Shahi will be responsible for leading the culinary team at the hotel and overseeing the food and beverage operations, with a focus on creating exceptional dining experiences for guests.

Shahi brings with him an impressive culinary background, having completed his hotel management degree from IHM Goa and starting his culinary journey as a trainee chef de partie at The Leela Goa. He then went on to work with several renowned hotel chains, including The Oberoi and Taj, where he honed his skills and gained valuable experience in the culinary industry.

Pankaj Shahi, Executive Chef at Hyatt Pune, said, “I believe good food is the foundation of genuine happiness. Extremely excited to shape the culinary experiences of Hyatt Pune. Looking forward to working closely with the team members and the leadership team of the hotel.”

Shahi’s journey with Hyatt started in 2009, when he joined the Grand Hyatt Doha pre-opening team as a chef de partie. He then went on to work with the Hyatt Regency Chennai pre-opening team as a sous chef, and with the Hyatt Regency Gurgaon pre-opening team as a chef de cuisine, where he made significant contributions to the culinary operations of these properties.

Over the past 12 years, Shahi has consistently demonstrated his culinary expertise within the Hyatt brand, and his most recent role was as the Executive Sous Chef with the Grand Hyatt Kochi, where he led the events experiences at the hotel. He now brings this extensive knowledge and experience to Hyatt Pune, where he will be instrumental in driving the culinary narrative and creating memorable dining experiences for guests.

Shahi’s leadership abilities and culinary knowledge will be crucial in implementing new processes and elevating the culinary offerings at Hyatt Pune. He is known for his passion for exploring different cuisines and local restaurants, and during his leisure time, he loves to do so with his family.

The appointment of Pankaj Shahi as the Executive Chef of Hyatt Pune is a significant move for the hotel, and we can expect to see some exciting culinary developments and experiences in the future.

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Baale Resort Goa launches its private members club 

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Baale

Baale Resort Goa is a luxury private pool villa resort located in North Goa that has now launched an exclusive private members’ club called the ‘Baale Private Members’ Club’. This bespoke club is a unique concept that caters to individuals who value luxurious and tailored experiences, quality lifestyle, and holistic well-being. 

The Baale Private Members’ Club offers a carefully curated community of like-minded individuals who share similar passions, interests, and stories, making it an ideal platform for networking and connecting with people from various backgrounds.

The club is situated in the charming village of Arpora, which is known for its peaceful and serene atmosphere. The club provides a secluded and serene setting where members can escape from the hustle and bustle of city life and indulge in the luxuries that the club has to offer. The club’s location is easily accessible and conveniently located close to popular tourist attractions, making it an ideal place to stay and explore the beauty of Goa.

Membership to this exclusive club provides members with access to exceptional dining, a rich cultural calendar, state-of-the-art sports and fitness facilities, and unparalleled entertainment in a private and exclusive setting. The club features beautifully appointed spaces designed to provide a carousel of day-to-night experiences, where members can unwind and rejuvenate their mind and body. The club provides a state-of-the-art gym, which is operated by SUMAYA with Technogym Artis equipment, and offers an extensive range of fitness and wellness programs that cater to all levels of fitness enthusiasts.

The Baale Private Members’ Club also offers an active pool with a neck massager, a jacuzzi, and massage stations, providing members with a perfect space to relax and unwind. The 25m lap pool is an excellent place for members to swim and exercise, while the flood-lit tennis court offers a unique opportunity to play tennis under the stars. The club also has a range of other activities and facilities that cater to the needs and preferences of different members, such as a luxury spa and salon, squash court, virtual golf, snooker, activity center with table tennis, darts, board games, and a kids play area.

Baale’s Private Members’ Club is grounded in a timeless spirit and offers a rich and varied cultural program that is as diverse and dynamic as its members. The club’s cultural calendar is curated to provide members with a unique and unforgettable experience that combines entertainment, art, and culture. The club provides unparalleled restaurants and bars that offer a wide range of culinary delights, including innovative gastronomical experiences, and connoisseur wine tastings. The club also offers multiple venues to members to host private celebrations and events.

This sanctuary provides a space where members can be pampered, indulgence is the norm, and luxury is a promise. The club is designed to provide members with a perfect setting to connect, network, dine, unwind, and celebrate in a private and exclusive setting. The Baale Private Members’ Club is a perfect place to escape from the stresses of everyday life and indulge in the luxuries that the club has to offer.

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The Rising popularity of Whisky Cocktails over old-fashioned Whiskies!

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winter-cocktails

In recent years, there has been a surge in the popularity of whisky cocktails. This trend has been especially noticeable in Edinburgh, Scotland, where whisky has been a part of the city’s culture for centuries. Many traditionalists may view whisky cocktails as a form of blasphemy, but the truth is that whisky cocktails have brought a new level of creativity and experimentation to the world of whisky.

Whisky cocktails have challenged the traditional view that whisky should only be consumed straight or with water. Today, bartenders are using a wide range of ingredients and flavor profiles to create innovative and exciting cocktails that showcase the complex flavors and aromas of whisky. From classic cocktails like the Manhattan and Old Fashioned to more modern creations like the Whisky Sour and Penicillin, whisky cocktails offer a range of flavor experiences that can appeal to a wide range of palates.

Edinburgh is home to many bars and restaurants that offer an impressive selection of whisky cocktails. Johnnie Walker Princes Street is a prime example of a bar that has embraced the trend towards whisky cocktails. Located in the heart of Edinburgh, Johnnie Walker Princes Street offers a variety of innovative cocktails that feature Johnnie Walker whisky as the star ingredient. The bar’s mixologists are constantly experimenting with new ingredients and techniques to create unique and exciting cocktails that appeal to whisky lovers and cocktail enthusiasts alike.

One of the reasons why whisky cocktails have become so popular in Edinburgh is the city’s long and storied history with whisky. For centuries, whisky has been a part of the city’s culture, and many of the world’s most famous whisky brands have their roots in Scotland. Today, Edinburgh is home to many distilleries, bars, and restaurants that celebrate the city’s whisky heritage and offer a wide range of whisky experiences.

Another reason why whisky cocktails have become popular in Edinburgh is the city’s vibrant food and drink scene. In recent years, Edinburgh has emerged as a foodie destination, with a range of innovative restaurants and bars that offer a diverse selection of food and drink. This has created a culture of experimentation and creativity that has spilled over into the world of whisky cocktails.

Despite the popularity of whisky cocktails, some traditionalists still view them as a form of blasphemy. They argue that whisky should be consumed straight or with water to fully appreciate its complex flavors and aromas. However, the truth is that whisky cocktails offer a new level of creativity and experimentation that can help to attract a new generation of drinkers to the world of whisky.

Whisky cocktails have become increasingly popular in Edinburgh and around the world. They offer a new level of creativity and experimentation that can help to bring a fresh perspective to the world of whisky. Whether you prefer classic cocktails or more modern creations, there is a whisky cocktail out there that can appeal to your taste buds. So go ahead and commit whisky blasphemy – you might just discover your new favorite drink.

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Westlife Foodworld’s now employs 34% Women in its Workforce

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McDonald's
McDonald's (Representative Image)

Westlife Foodworld is a company that operates McDonald’s restaurants in West and South India. The company has a workforce of over 11,000 people, of which women constitute 34% as of March 5. This is a significant increase from the previous year, where women made up 32% and 30% of the workforce in 2022 and 2021, respectively.

The company values its female employees and acknowledges the positive impact they have had on the organization as a whole. It is committed to creating an inclusive workplace that enables women to grow at all levels. This commitment is evident in the company’s efforts to increase women representation at mid-manager and frontline manager levels in its restaurants across West and South India.

Over the past year, Westlife Foodworld has achieved a 150% increase in women’s representation at mid-manager levels, and a 31% growth in women representation at the frontline manager level. These numbers are impressive and demonstrate the company’s commitment to gender diversity and inclusivity.

In June 2022, the company launched its first All-Women Gold Standard Drive-Thru Restaurant near the Statue of Unity at Ekta Nagar in Gujarat. The restaurant is managed and run independently by 28 women who have been trained as per FSSAI guidelines on all the necessary safety, hygiene, and other restaurant procedures. This restaurant is a testament to the company’s commitment to gender diversity and providing opportunities for women to grow and thrive.

The statement also notes that 90% of the women workforce in the restaurant were recruited from the GMR Foundation. This is an excellent initiative that provides opportunities for women from marginalized communities to gain employment and achieve financial independence.

Westlife Foodworld’s commitment to inclusivity and gender diversity is commendable. The company’s efforts to increase women representation at all levels of the organization and provide opportunities for women to grow and thrive are impressive. The launch of the All-Women Gold Standard Drive-Thru Restaurant is an excellent initiative that showcases the company’s commitment to empowering women and providing equal opportunities for all.

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Goeld Frozen Foods to launch QSR brand; first outlet to open in Mumbai

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gold

Shri Bajrang Alliance, a company based in Chhattisgarh, India, took a step into the frozen foods business about a year ago. Since then, the company has been making strides to establish itself in the market and grow its product offerings. Now, the company is gearing up to launch a new quick-service restaurant (QSR) brand called ‘Goeld’ in the near future.

The launch of the QSR brand has been delayed due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. However, according to Archit Goel, the Executive Director and CFO of Shri Bajrang Alliance, the company is currently in the process of finalizing the brand design and standard operating procedures (SOPs) for a launch in the early part of the 2023-24 financial year.

Archit Goel, Executive Director and CFO, said, “A lot of QSR brands are using our frozen products already. So, with our own QSR, our products will get more visibility in the market. We have a robust distribution network in over 40 cities in the country. We are currently present in all the modern trade and online e-commerce channels. We supply between 90,000 to 1-lakh kg of frozen products to the HoReCa in an average month.”

As the company prepares for the launch of its new brand, Archit Goel has been discussing the HoReCa (Hotel, Restaurant, and Catering) segment. According to Goel, spring rolls and kebabs are highly in demand in this segment, as they provide value and convenience for large banqueting events. This suggests that the Goeld brand may also focus on offering these types of products to cater to the needs of the HoReCa market.

Shri Bajrang Alliance’s foray into the frozen foods business and the upcoming launch of the Goeld QSR brand are exciting developments for the company. With the ongoing pandemic affecting businesses worldwide, it’s impressive to see a company persisting and preparing for expansion. By focusing on high-demand products like spring rolls and kebabs, Shri Bajrang Alliance may have a successful entry into the QSR market with its Goeld brand.

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Mor Appam: A lite Breakfast Snack with a Buttermilk twist

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Mor Appam

Appam, also known as hoppers, is a popular breakfast item from South India. 

Mor appam is a type of appam that is made by adding buttermilk or yogurt to the fermented rice batter. The word “Mor”” in mor appam means buttermilk in Tamil. 

If you belong to a tamil household, then waking up to the smell of freshly made Mor Appam – soft, fluffy pancakes that are tangy, savory, and oh-so-delicious. As you take the first bite, you can feel the softness of the pancake, and the tangy flavor of the buttermilk or yogurt immediately hits your taste buds, making your mouth water. The slight sweetness from the coconut and the savory notes from the onions and chilies that are mixed into the batter create a flavor explosion in your mouth. The crispy edges of the pancake, which perfectly balance the soft and fluffy texture. The aroma of the fermented rice and coconut blends with the tangy and savory flavors to create an irresistible dish that you can’t get enough of. 

It is a popular breakfast item in the southern states of India, especially in Tamil Nadu and Kerala. It is usually served with coconut chutney or sambar, which enhances its flavor and texture. 

What makes it so popular is not just the taste but the health benefits it offers like being a  source of good carbohydrates, energy and proteins. It is even rich in probiotics and low in sugar and since it is a fermented food, it helps in maintaining gut health as well. 

So, in order to make this nutrient-packed and delicious food, we need to have: 

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups of rice
  • 1/2 cup of grated coconut
  • 2 cups of buttermilk
  • 1 tsp of salt
  • 1/2 tsp of baking soda
  • Oil for greasing the appam pan

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the rice thoroughly and soak it in water for about 6-8 hours or overnight.
  2. Drain the water and grind the rice along with grated coconut to a smooth batter consistency.
  3. Transfer the batter to a large mixing bowl and add the buttermilk, salt, and baking soda. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
  4. Cover the bowl and let the batter ferment for about 8-10 hours or overnight.
  5. After fermentation, the batter will have a slightly sour taste and a fluffy texture.
  6. Heat the appam pan over medium heat and brush it with oil.
  7. Pour a ladleful of the fermented batter onto the center of the pan and swirl it around to spread the batter evenly.
  8. Cover the pan with a lid and let the appam cook for about 2-3 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown and crispy.
  9. Once cooked, remove the appam from the pan using a spatula and transfer it to a plate.
  10. Repeat the same process with the remaining batter until all the appams are cooked.

Your delicious and tangy Mor Appam is ready to be served hot with coconut chutney or any of your favorite sides and get indulged in tasting this great tamil delicacy. 

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Beer Brand Bira 91 raises $10 million Funding from MUFG Bank

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bira 91

Beer Brand Bira 91 has raised $10 Mn in a new funding round from MUFG Bank to fuel its Growth and Expansion Plans. In recent years, the company has seen significant growth and has expanded its reach across multiple markets worldwide. In 2021, the company raised $70 million in a Series-D funding round led by Kirin Holdings Co., a Japanese beer company. 

The investment will be utilized to ramp up the production capacity of Bira 91 and improve its supply chain to meet the increasing demand for its products. Additionally, the company plans to enhance its innovation capabilities to develop more flavorful and colorful beers. Bira 91 aims to lead the global shift towards more artisanal and high-quality beer, setting itself apart from mass-produced commercial brands.

Bira 91 is a beer brand that was founded in India in 2015 by Ankur Jain. The company’s name is derived from ‘Bira’, which is a colloquial term for beer in Hindi, and ’91’ represents India’s country code. Bira 91 has since become a popular beer brand in India and has gained recognition globally.

Yasuhide Hayashi, Executive Officer, MUFG Bank, said, “MUFG Bank has consistently invested in the India growth story. The Indian beer market is booming, owing to factors such as changing lifestyle of consumers, a growing preference for the alcoholic beverage and rising brand consciousness regarding imported and premium beers. With this partnership, we are eager to work with the Bira 91 team to further their growth story and enhance their footprint n India as well as across the globe.”

Ankur Jain, CEO, Bira 91, said, “We are truly excited to partner with MUFG Bank. As Japan’s largest bank with an extremely strong footprint, we believe that this partnership can help Bira 91 tap into global pools of capital as it continues on its growth journey.”

As the fourth-largest beer company in India, Bira 91 holds a market share of 5% across key markets, with a manufacturing footprint of about 2.5 million hectoliters. The company has five manufacturing facilities in India and a presence across 550 towns and 18 countries worldwide. Bira 91 has managed to triple its market share from pre-covid levels, making it one of the fastest-growing beer brands globally.

Bira 91’s success can be attributed to its focus on quality, innovation, and marketing. The company has a wide range of beer flavors that cater to different tastes and preferences. Its marketing campaigns are witty and relatable, targeting a young and trendy audience. Bira 91’s unique approach has helped it create a loyal customer base and gain a strong foothold in the competitive beer industry.

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Coconut Chutney: A Nutritious Sidedish that elevates any Breakfast Snack

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coconut chatni

Coconut chutney is a traditional condiment that originated in the southern part of India. It is believed that it was introduced to the region by the Portuguese during the colonial period. Over time, the recipe was adapted and modified by the locals, and today, it is an essential part of South Indian cuisine and is famous all over India with its other accompaniments.

This creamy and flavorful chutney is made with freshly grated coconut, tempered with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and red chili. The tanginess of tamarind and the sweetness of jaggery balance the spiciness of chili, creating a unique taste that is both savory and refreshing and packed with many health benefits and even the preparation is very simple with all the ingredients being readily available in almost every Indian household. It not only helps in improving the digestive health but also boosts immunity. 

Coconut being the super food that it is, even this delicious chutney is packed with ample nutrients like healthy fats, fiber, and vitamins. It is also rich in minerals such as iron, calcium, and magnesium.

So, to indulge in this easy-to-make, delicious and healthy delight, you need to have: 

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup freshly grated coconut
  • 1 small piece of tamarind
  • 1 small piece of jaggery
  • 1-2 red chili
  • 1/2 tsp mustard seeds
  • A few curry leaves
  • Salt to taste
  • Water as required

Instructions:

  1. In a blender, add the grated coconut, tamarind, jaggery, red chili, curry leaves, and salt.
  2. Add water as required and blend to a smooth consistency.
  3. Heat a small pan and add mustard seeds. Once they start to splutter, add the curry leaves and turn off the heat.
  4. Pour the tempering over the coconut chutney and mix well.
  5. Serve with dosas, idlis, vadas, or any South Indian dish of your choice.

If frozen, this chutney can last longer and is so versatile that it can be paired with almost everything. Some of its major accompaniments are dosa, idli, vada, upma, pongal, sambar and even chapati. It not only elevated the taste, but even on being paired with deep-fried foods like vada, can even lift the nutritional benefits and make it relatively easy to digest. 

Try making coconut chutney at home and experience the burst of flavors that will take your taste buds on a culinary journey to the exotic lands of South India.

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Kesar Halva: A Quick Dessert recipe that is close to heart of India for all occassions 

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kesar halva

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s decadent, rich, and full of flavor, Kesar Halva is the perfect choice. A bite of golden, buttery halva that instantly melts in your mouth, leaving behind a heavenly aroma and the taste of saffron. That’s exactly what Kesar Halva offers – a sensory delight that will leave you craving for more!

The beauty of Kesar Halva is not just in its taste, but also in its simplicity. It’s made with just a few ingredients – semolina, sugar, ghee, milk, and saffron – yet the flavors are so rich and complex that it feels like a gourmet dessert.

Kesar Halva has its roots in Indian cuisine and has been enjoyed for centuries. It is believed that Kesar Halwa originated in the royal kitchens of the Mughal Empire. The dish was often served to the royal court, and over time it became a popular dessert across India.

It even provides an instant rush of energy and is  nutrient rich from all the spices and nuts and even the goodness of ghee, however it cannot be ignored that it is high in sugar content and saturated fats.

Kesar Halva is made with simple ingredients that are readily available in most Indian households.Here is a simple recipe for making Kesar Halva at home:

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup semolina
  • 1/2 cup ghee
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1/4 tsp saffron
  • 1/4 cup chopped nuts (pistachios and almonds)

Instructions:

  1. In a pan, heat the ghee and add the semolina. Stir until the semolina turns golden brown.
  2. Add sugar and milk and stir until the sugar dissolves.
  3. Add saffron and chopped nuts and mix well.
  4. Cook for a few minutes until the halva comes together and leaves the sides of the pan.
  5. Serve hot and enjoy!

One bite of Kesar Halva is enough to transport you to the vibrant streets of India, where the sweet aroma of spices and sweets fill the air. This traditional Indian dessert has been enjoyed for generations, and it’s not hard to see why. It’s the perfect dessert to end a meal, or to share with loved ones during festivals and celebrations.So, if you’re looking for a dessert that’s decadent, rich, and full of flavor, Kesar Halva is the perfect choice

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Meet BTech Pani Puri Wali, 21-yr-old entrepreneur who serves healthy street food in West Delhi

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BTech pani puri

Tapsi Upadhyay is a remarkable young woman who has shown great initiative and determination in launching her own business after completing her BTech degree. Her aim to serve healthy street food is a refreshing and much-needed change in a country where street food is a significant part of the food culture, but often unhealthy due to the use of oil and other unhealthy ingredients.

Upadhyay’s innovative use of air-fried puris for her pani puri stall is an example of how one can stay true to the roots of street food while also making it healthier. She is constantly exploring new ideas to include more healthy street food options in her menu, which is a testament to her commitment to serving nutritious and delicious food.

In a world where entrepreneurship is still primarily dominated by men, Upadhyay’s story is an inspiration to many young women who aspire to make a name for themselves. However, she has also faced challenges as a woman in the industry. In the Instagram reel that went viral, Upadhyay mentioned how some people have questioned her decision to sell pani puris after completing her education, and have even suggested that she should not be on the streets as it is not safe for women. Despite these setbacks, Upadhyay has remained resolute and focused on her goals.

https://www.instagram.com/reel/CpQAZ9RD6XG/?utm_source=ig_embed&ig_rid=d019226f-4d1e-4bf4-ad21-da09e8c2aad7&ig_mid=37E5538E-FEF4-4CB8-BF03-40E1A386147F

The overwhelming support that Upadhyay has received from people online is a testament to her courage and determination. The fact that the Instagram reel has garnered over 5.3 million views and 316k likes shows that her story has resonated with people from all walks of life. Many have expressed their admiration for Upadhyay’s spirit, and have praised her for taking the road less traveled.

Tapsi Upadhyay’s story is an inspiration to all those who aspire to make a name for themselves in the world of entrepreneurship. Her unwavering commitment to providing healthy street food, along with her courage and perseverance, has earned her widespread respect and admiration. Her success is a testament to the fact that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible.

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