Manisha Dhanu, a resident of Fisherman's Colony in Mahim, dishes out authentic Koli fare spiced up with fiery Kala masala. Call for home delivery or carry a takeaway
Manisha Dhanu, a resident of Fisherman's Colony in Mahim, dishes out authentic Koli fare spiced up with fiery Kala masala. Call for home delivery or carry a takeaway
Ever tried a kheema made from fish meat? Mahim resident Manisha Dhanu cajoles you to try a spoonful. If you like it, she'll deliver it to your doorstep. That's not a favour for a friend, but a novel service, perhaps the only one of its kind that allows you to enjoy authentic Koli cuisine that you are unlikely to find in city restaurants.
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Mushi Kheema, Pomfret Stuffed with Green Masala and Prawn Rice |
It all started during a weekend picnic to Murud Janjira, a fort situated in a coastal village in Raigad district of Maharashtra, when Manisha and her husband Ashok's friends wouldn't stop praising the food she had packed for them.
The two belong to the Koli community and hail from Dahanu in Thane district. Ashok reminisces about the time he spent at sea helping his father sort out the catch of the day. "The fact that everyone loved our food made me realise that I could start a service to deliver homemade Koli food."
What makes Koli food different from other Indian coastal cuisine, or even Maharashtrian fare is it's simplicity and freshness. Rice, fried fish and a spicy-tangy curry is staple fare. Kala masala, made in Koli homes, is used in most dishes.
A mix of black pepper, cloves, cinnamon, black cardamom, poppy seeds, black sesame seeds and red chilli powder, it's one potent concoction that lends the food of the fishermen community a distinct taste.
Mushi Kheema, a mince of steamed fish meat, green chillies and egg is one of her specialities, together with Prawn Rice. "The fish has to be ultra-fresh. We source it from the coast along Dahanu," says Manisha, who is helped by relatives Lalita Dhanu and Devki Pujari.
The Koli Sea Food Festival that's held every year at Versova in the month of January, is a good three months away. So, those of you craving for a taste of coastal fare, have reason to smile.
Orders taken from Monday to Sunday. No deliveries on Thursday. Food delivered between Mahim and Dadar from 8 am to 7 pm. Residents of other areas can place an order three hours in advance, and drop by for takeaways. Call 9769661537
Price list
A plate of Mushi Kheema: Rs 75
200 gms of Surmai Pickle: Rs 40
A plate of Prawn Pattice (4 pieces): Rs 80
A plate of Bombil Vade (4 pieces): Rs 40
Prawn Rice: Rs 125
