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Chandigarh has Chinese food with Punjabi flavour
by
Sunil Sharma
Chandigarh:
Punjabis are generally known for their spicy delicacies.
But these days a lot of people in Chandigarh are finding
a new craving for Chinese and Thai food. At times,
the spicy food here presents a unique blend of Chinese
and Indian ingredients. One learns about its growing
popularity after paying a visit to `Yangtse' Chinese
restaurant in hotel Shivalik View. The kitchen here
has always been adding new items to its menu since
re-opening this year. Be it the Chowmein, Manchurian,
Chop-suey, and fried rice with chicken are some of
the hot favorite dishes here. Already a dozen such
outlets with a lot more following here, Chinese food
has occupied a special place in Punjabi hearts. "Why
talk about India or Punjab, even if you go to Europe,
or to America - people are so fond of Chinese cuisine.
But yes, every Chinese cuisine varies in taste and
flavor because of many regions in China, the style
of preparation in China are different so it depends
where you are getting it cooked from. It varies from
region to region and you would find a different style
of preparation," said Rajvant Rawat, manager for food
and beverages, Tangtse Chinese Restaurant in Chandigarh.
With live Indian music and fabulous decor - Chinese
silken curtains, bronzes and ivory chairs, the dining
room reflects an exotic style. But following the market
trends, hoteliers have cashed in to provide authentic
and aromatic flavors of China in an Indian way. And,
many Punjabis just check in to verify as how chicken
can be cooked other than being roasted in a Tandoor.
"If you go to Delhi, or Mumbai or any other metro,
you will find authentic Chinese food. Here we have
adapted the Chinese food to Punjabi taste by making
it spicier and with adding more sauce. Ask any Punjabi
about Chinese dishes, he will reel out only Chop suey,
Manchurian, Chilli Chicken and fried rice," said one
at the restaurant. Apart from the Chinese, Thai food
has also tickled the Indian taste buds with its Hot
and spicy cuisine. Though experts find Thai and Chinese
cuisine not as rich as Punjabi food. It's quick to
prepare and delicious to eat, not regularly but perhaps
for a change! Although, Punjabis love to relish their
spicy food, they readily adapt to the culture and
foods of other continents. Perhaps, that's what makes
them adjust at any place like any globetrotter!
- Apr
11, 2008
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