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Cuisine

Subgroup: 

Cuisine

The   Cuisine Subgroup organises regular programmes ranging from demonstrations and tastings to full   presentations and meals. Themes and subjects vary, from examining national   cuisine by region to tours of international gastronomy, including different   continents and styles of food preparation and presentation. The ingredients   are regularly studied for their health, well-being and medicinal properties   and the origins and evolution of dishes is often a topic of great interest.The   group congregates at a variety of forums, from peoples homes to restaurants   and other outside venues.

Coordinator: Nabeela Aijaz

Co-coordinator: Fozia Memon

Subgroup Programmes: 

Cuisine - SABOR DE MEXICO- A TASTE OF MEXICO!

Cuisine - SABOR DE MEXICO- A TASTE OF MEXICO!

Saturday, 4 April 2026

Get ready for a flavor explosion...Welcome to Madam's Pantry!

Join us for an immersiv experience showcasing the bold flavors and vibrant traditions of Mexico !

Naureen, the entrepreneur behind this culinary journey, is thrilled to share the vibrant tastes of Mexico with you. Joining her is her talented daughter-in-law, and together they will take you on a delicious adventure through the heart of this unique cuisine!

Some iconic dishes- among others- that you will get the opportunity to enjoy...Quesadilla (chicken), Burrito Bowl, Mexican street corn, Tres Leches cake ...and more !

Cuisine -  A VERY SPECIAL CUISINE FOR RAMZAN/RAMADAN!

Cuisine - A VERY SPECIAL CUISINE FOR RAMZAN/RAMADAN!

Saturday, 14 February 2026

Ramzan (or Ramadan) is the holiest month in the Islamic calendar, observed by Muslims globally as a time for deep spiritual reflection, prayer, fasting (from dawn to sunset), charity, and community, marking when the Quran was first revealed. Dates vary yearly as it follows the lunar cycle, often beginning with moon sighting, with festivals like Eid al-Fitr at its end.
The Dawoodi Bohras are a religious denomination within the Ismā'īlī branch of Shia Islam. They number approximately one million worldwide and have settled in over 40 countries around the world. Sizable congregations reside in Pakistan, India ,Yemen, East Africa, and the Middle East. They also have a growing presence in Europe, North America, and Australia. The community  is well-educated and professionally are traders, business persons, entrepreneurs and professionals .
The word "Bohra" comes from the Gujarati word vohrvu or vyavahar, meaning "to trade". The Bohra community during  gatherings eat in groups of eight, seated around a large steel platter called a thaal.
Programme
Owais and Munira will showcase their community’s cuisine The special Ramzan menu will include opening the ‘FAST’ with Iftar dates, biscuits and tea or shabbat followed by the traditional dinner starting with a pinch of salt, delving into Halwa, then the starters and main food. The starters will be chicken wrap, chilli poppers,mini dossa, fish Kabab, pani puri followed by chicken curry, biryani and other delicious Bohra dishes. Some dishes will be demonstrated and others served along with a cultural briefing.

CUISINE: 'AHAN THAI'

CUISINE: 'AHAN THAI'

Saturday, 24 January 2026

Thai culture is influenced by Buddhist traditions and regional, ethnic and cultural practices.

'AHAN THAI' -The national name of Thai cuisine is recognized for its complex balance of flavors, often featuring fresh, aromatic herbs and spices like lemongrass, galangal, basil, and chili peppers. The taste varies significantly by region, influenced by local geography, climate, and historical interactions with neighboring cultures like Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, India, Malaysia, and Indonesia and the influece of Chinese, Portuguese and Indian traders and immigrants. Characterized by regional variations, a variety of cooking methods are used: stir-frying, deep-frying, and steaming.

Thai dishes are known for their fragrant components and aesthetically pleasing presentation, making the entire meal an enjoyable experience!

Our menu includes:

Chicken Thai soup, Steamed fish with lemon sauce,

Chicken pad Thai

Papaya salad & Sticky green rice

Chicken satay with Thai peanut sauce &/or Thai lollipops with mango chili sauce.

Desserts: Coconut ice cream / Khao Mao Tod.

Anisa A. Rahman Quraishi recognised as a foremost caterer for Islamabad/ Pindiites. is an expert in Pakistani, Arabic, Asian and European cuisines.
















Cuisine - "DOSA" DELIGHTS!!!!

Cuisine - "DOSA" DELIGHTS!!!!

Saturday, 13 December 2025

If you havent tried a 'Dosa'...this is your opportunity!

Initially the 'dosa' - a thin, crispy South Indian and Sri Lankan crepe or pancake delicacy (now a univeral favourite, particularly in Pakistan) is made from a fermented batter of rice and urad dal (black gram lentils). A savory dish it can be served plain or stuffed with fillings like spiced potatoes (Masala Dosa). It is traditionally accompanied by chutneys and sambar (a lentil soup).

You will indulge in:

  • 6 types of delicious Dosa’s along with 6 Chutneys
  • Bun Kabab Karachi Style
  • Special Dahi Barae
  • Halwa Poorie
  • Chanae & Aaloo ke Tarkari & Achaar
  • And wind it up with Kashmiri Tea!

Presenters

Noorain Khalid & Syed Khalid Dastgir started the now famous "Noor's Kitchen" in 2015, initially with one helper and a second hand freezer. Their customers loved the taste , so they decided to take a step forward and introduced authentic dosa in Islamabad at farmers market, and needless to say, it was a super hit! Eventually they opened up a restaurant in 2017 and serve different types of dosas along with halwa poori, nihari, Karachi style bun kababs and so much more!
Not to be missed!

Cuisine -  GILGIT-   BALTISTAN /HUNZAI DELICACIES!

Cuisine - GILGIT- BALTISTAN /HUNZAI DELICACIES!

Saturday, 15 November 2025

Please Note: This is instead of the original Thai cuisine programme- postponed due to unavoidable circumstances.

Ever wondered how this special cuisine is different from the food in the Plains? This is your opportunity to find out!

The mesmerizing Hunza Valley sits in the far north of Gilgit Baltistan, a mountainous territory of Pakistan filled with historical places and stunning scenery. The people of Hunza have their own unique traditions, languages, and cuisines- their food in particular is rich in flavor and variety, and it’s totally different from anything you can find in other parts of the country!

Some unique dishes that you will get to taste!

· Dou-Do soup with Mamtu: Noodle soup with dumplings

· Sharbat: With its own unique twist- a wheat and meat dish for special occasions

· Hasburush shapik: Handmade ‘roti’ (bread) filled with cheese/ yoghurt served with almond oil

· A variety of vegetables: presented in a special local style,

· Raita ( a special yoghurt concoction) and salads

· Dirram Phitti: A dessert made by making dough of wheat-flour and baking it over an open fire or an oven, it is naturally sweet without any use of sugar!


Cuisine -A MEDITERRANEAN  MEDLEY!

Cuisine -A MEDITERRANEAN MEDLEY!

Saturday, 11 October 2025

Join us on a journey through the Mediterranean known for its hospitality and delicious cuisine !

Mediterranean cuisine encompasses the diverse cooking styles and foods from countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea, characterized by an emphasis on fresh produce, olive oil, whole grains, legumes, and fish. Key ingredients include fruits, vegetables, nuts, herbs, and lean proteins, with a moderate intake of dairy, poultry, and limited amounts of red meat. This approach to eating is celebrated for its natural flavors, health benefits, and balanced, plant-focused recipes.

With its regional diversity the cuisine spans countries like Spain, Italy, France, Greece, Turkey, and North African nations such as Morocco and Egypt.

You will get an opportunity to taste:

  • Harira soup : Morocco,
  • Spinach spaghetti ,tzatziki cucumber & yoghurt sauce :Greece,
  • Chicken francese:France
  • Eggplant cannelloni : Italy
  • Paella rice with sea food : Spain
  • Hummus & Falafel : Lebanon
  • Mediterranean salad with legumes and beans, olive bread, baklava : Turkeyie.

Cuisine - 'WAZWAN'- KASHMIRI CULINARY ARTISTRY!

Cuisine - 'WAZWAN'- KASHMIRI CULINARY ARTISTRY!

Saturday, 12 April 2025

Self Drive/travel in convoy.

Kashmir is known as 'Paradise on earth' for its natural habitats and beautiful lakes. Prepare your taste buds for a culinary journey to this picturesque valley. This gastronomic extravaganza will celebrate the rich and diverse flavors of the special cuisine, offering a delightful experience for food enthusiasts. Let your taste buds be captivated by the aromatic spices, rich gravies, and delightful sweets as you experience the essence of Kashmiri culinary artistry.

The deliciously prepared menu will be presented in a Kashmiri house setting with its unique wooden furniture and antique wares.

Presenter: Anjum N Reshi is a talented Kashmiri resident in Islamabad and has promoted Kashmiri culture including its cuisine, wood carving and intricate embroidered shawls in various national programmes and TV shows.

 

 

Cuisine -IN PREPARATION: THE SPECIAL RAMZAN/ RAMADAN DELICACIES!

Cuisine -IN PREPARATION: THE SPECIAL RAMZAN/ RAMADAN DELICACIES!

Saturday, 15 February 2025

In preparation for the Islamic holy month of Ramzan/Ramadan we will be introduced to the very special menu for Sehri (Sunrise: begining of day fast) & Iftar (Sunset:end of fast). Most dishes can be served both times.
The menu will include:
Starters: Dates, Dhahi Bhale, Bhel Puri, Aaloo Piyaz Pakoray, Aaloo Cholay, Samosas;

Main: Special Bhori Fried Chicken , Lagan Seekh, Chicken Biryani, Khichra Haleem and different types of 'chatni’'

Desserts & Drinks: Daal Halwa. Saboodana Special, Gur Pani Jasmine sherbats.
In addition to the above , there will be a demonstration of a healthy pancake with vegetables & also a granola bar full of nuts for energy!

Cuisine: THE PAKISTANI 'NASHTA'

Cuisine: THE PAKISTANI 'NASHTA'

Saturday, 25 January 2025

Pakistani cuisine can be characterized as a blend of regional cooking styles and flavours from across South, Central and West Asia. It also maintains certain Mughal influences within its recipes and cooking techniques. It’s ethnic and cultural diversity, diverse climates, geographical environments, and availability of different produce lead to diverse regional cuisines.

Ever wondered what a traditional Pakistani breakfast/brunch is like? Join us for this very special food tasting foray in the hospitable ambiance of a private home!

The mouth watering menu will include:

  • Qeema (a special dish of minced meat)
  • Nihari ( the perfect breakfast beef meat concoction for wintry days )
  • ‘Pakistani’ version of omelettes served with different Parathas ( a layered flatbread exclusive to the Subcontinent-with different fillings: radish/ potato etc.)
  • Poori also spelled as Puri (Small portions of unleavened dough is rolled to small discs and deep fried in hot oil. A perfectly made puri puffs as soon as it hits the hot oil!)
  • Served with Channa Alu (Chick peas and potato mix) and Suji halwaa ( A delicious semolina dessert)
  • and then to digest all this soul satisfying session - Doodh Patti Chai ( Mixed tea with milk and cardamom)..

Our very gracious host - Anisa A. Rehman Quraishi- with expertise in Pakistani, Arabic, Chinese and European cuisines,has earned her name in catering for exclusive private events in Islamabad.

Cuisine: TURKISH DELIGHTS!

Cuisine: TURKISH DELIGHTS!

Saturday, 7 December 2024

Türkiye is a land of many landscapes, topographies and therefore many 'food' styles. Its cuisine evolved based on numerous cultural interactions throughout centuries, especially during the Ottoman Empire, and has now acquired an international status...

An opportunity to test / taste the delicious authentic Türkiye dishes prepared by experts!

-Turkish dips, Adana kebabs, Shish Touk, Chicken Shawarma served with bread and rice- topped by a special Kibbeh dish of ultra-lean meat, bulgur, onion purée and spices. And lets not forget the delicious Turkish dessert-Baklava flaky pastry layers filled with chopped nuts and drenched in sweet syrup - served along with the Turkish tea!

 

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