As the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge woo Mumbai, an ongoing food festival is whipping up British pub classics. Excerpts from an interview with visiting chef, Celio Ceolin
Mini Fish Pies are made from fresh fish, cream and white wine. To try out this recipe log on to www.mid-day.com
Q. What are some of the common misconceptions that people have about British pub food?
A. The biggest misconception that people have about such fare is that it is run-of-the-mill fried food. While that was true a few years ago, it is no longer so. Big brewing houses have hired celebrity chefs and Michelin Star chefs to spike up the menus. So, now more and more of the finer pubs offer upmarket menus with some of the finest ingredients available, and with the use modern cooking techniques.
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Mini Fish Pies are made from fresh fish, cream and white wine. To try out this recipe log on to www.mid-day.com
Q. What is the hallmark of well-done fish and chips? What are the strict no-nos while preparing it?
A. The hallmark of good fish and chips and this applies to fish and fries equally is a super-crispy exterior and a custard-like interior. The inside of the fish should be flaky tender flesh, all encased in a perfect honey-coloured batter. The fish should be super fresh.
Q. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are in Mumbai; are you whipping up a special something to celebrate British royalty?
A.The timing of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s maiden trip to India, and Mumbai specifically, makes this one big celebration of the best of British — its great pubs and its royalty. The royals certainly enjoy as much refinement as they appreciate classic pub flavours, much like any Briton would. The wedding cake of the Duke and Duchess has been a great inspiration to all of us in the culinary world because as indulgent as it was, it was also remarkably understated. It was a work of art.
Chefs Celio Ceolin along with visiting chef Neelam Bajwa will create British pub favourites like Big Ben Burger and Fish and Chips for Mumbaikars. Pics/Atul Kamble
Q. Do you have plans to savour Mumbai food or do you have any other culinary adventures lined up in the city?
A. I am here in Mumbai to learn about Indian food. It is quite different from the Indian food that we get served in the UK. I am also travelling all around to taste all kinds of food. My spice levels are not so high but my tolerance to them is getting better every day.
Till: April 23, lunch and dinner
At: Long & Short — The Gastrobar, InterContinental Marine Drive.
Call: 39879999
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