Popular Indian Bistro Zafran Launches Limited Edition Simply South Menu in conjunction with Renowned Chef Chalapathi Rao
Zafran Indian Bistro is heading down south this season with a mouth-watering limited edition menu conceptualized by a team of Zafran chefs in conjunction with renowned Chef Chalapathi Rao, founder of the Simply South restaurant chain and the custodian for South Indian Culinary Art in India.
According to Chef Challu, as he is fondly known, “The Simply South menu is designed to burst the myth that South Indian food is just idlis, dosas, wadas and sambhar and truly showcases the diversity of South India, using spices, ingredients, cooking methods and flavors that are synonymous with this region.”
Featuring dishes that represent the five major Indian states of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telengana, Karnataka and Kerala, the Simply South limited edition menu will be available at all Zafran outlets from 20th March to 15th May 2018.
Standout starters include Chapa Vepudu, a coastal Andhra delicacy of sliced fish and Telangana’s Tala Gosht, aromatic mutton cubes marinated with ginger, garlic and spices.
From the famed Keralan dish Alleppey prawn curry with its raw mango infused gravy to the bydgi chillies used in the Kori Ghee roast chicken dish from Karnataka, not to mention the Andhra style Kodi biryani, the main courses are all packed with flavour.
For vegetarians, the Tahir Vada starter made of lentils is a must-try, as are the Kai Kari Chettinad from Tamil Nadu and the Malabar Paccha Kari vegetable stew from Kerala. Traditional south Indian accompaniments also make an appearance on the Simply South menu including Iddiyapams, Parottas and tender coconut Payasam.
For vegetarians, the Tahir Vada starter made of lentils is a must-try, as are the Kai Kari Chettinad from Tamil Nadu and the Malabar Paccha Kari vegetable stew from Kerala. Traditional south Indian accompaniments also make an appearance on the Simply South menu including Iddiyapams, Parottas and tender coconut Payasam.
Commenting on why Zafran decided to take this journey down South, Rakshak Puri, general manager- Asian dining at Foodmark said, “The GCC has always had a deep connection with the Southern part of India. The first expats that settled in the GCC were from Kerala and neighboring states. Therefore, when the opportunity to work with a stalwart of South Indian cuisine like Chef Challu came around we just had to grab it. We are excited to be adding this new dimension to our menu and look forward to another successful promotion at Zafran, one that is certain to challenge our chefs and delight our diners.”
“South Indian food and the style of cooking are so underrated and beyond the conventional fast food offering, not very prevalent in this city. As a South Indian myself, I am so excited at the prospect of our guests trying this wholesome and flavorful cuisine brought to life by Chef Challu,” added Chef Saabu Panicker, head chef at Zafran Indian Bistro in Dubai Marina Mall.
“To collaborate with one of the masters of South Indian cuisine is a real honor and I have no doubt that Simply South will be incredibly well-received by the city’s discerning diners,” said Chef Sajeev, executive chef at Zafran, who along with Chef Saabu, worked on this special menu with Chef Rao.
Together with Chef Challu, they visited the famed Waterfront fish market in Deira to find the choicest seafood, scoured the souks for specific herbs and spices and spent many hours in the kitchen perfecting each dish, resulting in a true labor of love.
“Redefining the way South Indian food is presented and dispelling myths about Indian food in general has always been high on my agenda and I am delighted to have been given this opportunity to collaborate with the fine team of chefs at Zafran Indian Bistro. We share a common philosophy of serving simple soul food that is big on flavor but not overwhelming, food that transports you to another world but might also remind you of your mother’s cooking, food that is always memorable,” said Chef Challu.
Zafran Indian Bistro has two outlets in Dubai, one that recently opened in Dubai Marina Mall and the other at the popular Mirdif City Center. The award-winning restaurant is open to guests for lunch as well as dinner from 11 am – 11 pm on weekdays and 11am – 12 am on weekends.
Check the Simply South menu