Dishoom Loves – Issue II

As February draws to a close, March brings a promise of spring, longer days and a collection of first-class recommendations that we’re looking to enjoy over the coming month. Settle in with a chai, as we share more of what Dishoom Loves.

We’re eating

A Mumbai-based confectionery delivering joy with mithai. Taken over by two sons during the pandemic to save their father’s legacy, Pistabarfi showcases traditional Indian sweets in a new light, with delightful treats such as their Gur laddoo – a happy accident of rolled jowar, bajra, nachni, wheat and rice with jaggery and ghee. 

We’re watching

The first Pakistani movie to be shortlisted for an Oscar – Joyland – is unmissable. The film centres around Haider, who finds work as a dancer in a cabaret, and falls in love with Biba (Alina Khan), a transgender woman who runs the show. Directed by Saim Sadiq, Joyland is a big-hearted picture, tackling themes of repression, sexual fluidity and social identity. 

We’re visiting

Manchester Museum unveils a new permanent gallery this month – South Asia Gallery – a space dedicated to the experiences and histories of South Asian diaspora communities. Expect contemporary work, personal stories, and over 140 historic artefacts from the Manchester Museum and British Museum. The first of its kind in the UK. 

We’re reading

A debut cookbook from Farokh Talati, Parsi: From Persia to Bombay. Gathering together a selection of Parsi recipes from Farokh’s travels through India and time spent with family, he reveals ways to recreate dishes at home. Blending influences in a journey from West London to Gujarat and beyond, Parsi is more than a cookbook – it’s a love letter to Parsi culture and its people. 

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Suggested Reading

See the journal
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May has us buzzing. The scent of the fresh, juicy Alphonso mangoes, two long weekends, cultural exhibitions, new documentaries – there’s a lot to soak in.

Vaisakhi

Vaisakhi, a day marked across India by people of many faiths, is celebrated in the Punjab as the start of the new Harvest. It falls on the 13th or 14th April depending on the calendar for that year.

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Spring has gently tiptoed in. As the days lengthen and the sun grows bolder, here’s a glimpse of what we eagerly await in April.

Ayesha Erkin shares one of her delectable date recipes

We’re turning page after page of Ayesha Erkin’s recipe book Date of the Day, featuring 30+ recipes for the modest date – timely for breaking fast and after. Our dear friend Ayesha has now kindly shared a recipe for you to make at home. Try it this Iftar or any time you need a salty-spiced sticky treat.