This event, which is part of the promotion of excellent cultural relations between Morocco and India, was organized in collaboration with Chef Aneesa Waheed, who specializes in Moroccan gastronomy.
During this taste journey, whose inauguration was marked by the presence of the Indian Minister of State for External Affairs and Culture, Meenakshi Lekhi, as well as other renowned personalities, emblematic dishes, carefully prepared and skillfully revisited by the Chef, were presented to awaken the palates and promote the delicacy of Moroccan flavors.
The festival, held at the famous Leela Palace in the Indian capital, was also attended by a large number of heads of diplomatic missions accredited to New Delhi, accompanied by senior representatives of the Indian ministry. Eminent figures from the world of Indian business, art and culture also took part in the event.
The initiative also took advantage of the dual celebration of the great Indian festival of Diwali and Morocco’s Independence Day, commemorated on November 18.
“This initiative came at the right time after the recent opening of the Moroccan National Tourist Office (ONMT) office in Delhi, aimed at strengthening cultural and economic ties between Morocco and India and stimulating human exchanges, in particular with the introduction of the e-visa for entry to Morocco without conditions for Indian nationals, in January 2023,” said on this occasion the Moroccan ambassador to India, Mohamed Maliki.
Mr. Maliki also said that this festival, beyond the gastronomic aspect, was a special opportunity to highlight the importance of cultural exchanges between Morocco and India. “It helped to consolidate friendly ties with the authorities and decision-makers of the accreditation countries, thus strengthening the foundations of fruitful cooperation,” he said.
The presence of Chef Anessa added a unique dimension to this event, showcasing the creativity and diversity of Moroccan gastronomy. Her expertise served as a culinary bridge between the two nations, strengthening the already strong ties between Morocco and India.
“I am delighted and honoured to have been able to share my passion and love for Moroccan cuisine here in New Delhi,” said the Indian-American chef, affirming that the fundamental idea behind this gastronomic gala is “to present authentic Moroccan cuisine in India”.
“We want the dishes to represent what Moroccan cuisine really is,” the chef stressed, noting that the menu took about three weeks to develop.
From the refreshing Moroccan salad to the seven vegetable couscous, each dish was a sensory experience and a testament to Aneesa Waheed’s passion and dedication to authentic Moroccan cuisine.
On this occasion, the Chef announced the upcoming opening of a new Moroccan restaurant in Hyderabad, in the south of India, which marks an exciting step in her mission to introduce the true essence of Moroccan cuisine to India.
Beyond the taste aspect, this event also served as a platform to celebrate and share Morocco’s culinary heritage. Guests were invited to delve into the history behind each Moroccan dish, while discovering the generosity and conviviality of the Moroccan people.
2024-08-08 02:03:38