Just like mom's cooking

When we entered Mast Kalandar, we expected hearty Punjabi fare: Creamy Butter Chicken with huge Naans, Sarson Da Saag with Makki Roti and piping-hot Rajma Chawal. Instead, we got vegetarian combo-meals: Parathas with Dal Makhani and Raita, subzi-roti, and gravy and rice combos. They also offer a few chaat items, as well as some Indian drinks and desserts.u00a0

We began with a Corn, Capsicum and Paneer Paratha (Rs 79). The paratha was perfectly made with a stuffing that oozed of healthy bell peppers and juicy corn. The small bowl of Dal Makhani topped with cream was smooth and delicious. Ditto the masala raita.u00a0

While this was a complete meal in itself, we decided to try something from their Main Course section. We opted for the Dal-Pulao combination (Rs 99) that was simple and delicious, a perfect example of home-style cooking. Bright red carrots, shining green peas and cauliflower dotted the yellow rice. The papad served with the meal added the right crunch.

Their HP 3 Combo (Rs 125) is the famous Indian thali in a new avatar. It consists of two wholewheat rotis, a potato-brinjal vegetable that was subtle and devoid of killer spices and oil, yellow Ghar Ki Dal, Raita and Jeera Rice ufffd a meal that evoked memories of home.u00a0

To top this off, we had a Jumbo Patiala Chaas (Rs 49), and were set for a good night's sleep. The huge glass of buttermilk was spiked with herbs and spices and left us satiated. There was no space in our tummies for dessert. Mast Kalandar left us impressed with their low-oil and low-spice healthy offerings.

At Mast Kalandar, Hotel Sahara Building, Senapati Bapat Road, opposite ICC Trade Tower.u00a0

Call 41206022