Chef Ranveer Brar unfolds a new story- Rediscovers Rezala: The Royal Dish of Nawabs
Renowned Chef and Actor Ranveer Brar recently shared an intriguing story, shedding light on the evolution of the iconic dish, Rezala, as it traveled from Bengal to Bhopal and became a signature of the city’s rich culinary heritage.
Brar traced the origins of Rezala to Bengal, where it was first introduced by Nawab Wajid Ali Shah. The dish was known for its distinctive flavors, a combination of aromatic spices and tender meat, cooked in a rich, creamy gravy. However, as the dish made its way from Bengal to Bhopal under the rule of the Begum Nawabs, it underwent a fascinating transformation.
According to Brar, Bhopal’s culinary traditions and its unique local ingredients had a profound influence on the original recipe. Bhopal, lacked the fresh river water that was integral to the authentic taste of Rezala.
To adjust the taste of Rezala, the people of Bhopal then began incorporating an abundant amount of Dhaniya (coriander) into the recipe. Brar explained that Dhaniya not only balanced the dish’s flavors but also helped in balancing the gut, adding a healthy twist to the traditional recipe. Over time, Dhaniya became a key ingredient in Bhopal’s version of Rezala, giving it a unique flavor and identity.
This adaptation reflected Bhopal’s distinct culture, and the use of Dhaniya became so ingrained in the city’s culinary tradition that it has now become synonymous with Bhopal itself. Brar shared that when you walk through the streets of Bhopal, the first scent that greets you is the fragrance of Dhaniya, long before the city’s renowned landmarks.
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