Monday, December 13, 2010

Vegetarian and globetrotting? Don’t despair!

From the art district of Paris to the Thames waterfront in London, the slopes of Staad and the temples of Cambodia, the Indian traveller has left her footprint across the globe. But while meat eaters can indulge their palate, the choices are limited for the vegetarians. Or so we thought until now. Chhaya Momaya busts the myth and tells Salil Jayakar all about those scrumptious options vegetarians can choose from

France
The “go-to” city in the world for food; no one presents fare the way the Parisian chefs do! Don’t hesitate to ask for their signature dish without the meat, they’ll make it for you. From the luxurious Ledoyen to the chic Le Jules Verne - housed in the Eiffel Tower at an altitude of 125m - you’ll be served the finest vegetarian cuisine the way the French enjoy it. Still not convinced? Ask for a plate of the finest potato chips, done just right and as thin as straws!

United Kingdom
Head to The Waterside Inn, among the oldest three star Michelin restaurants, located in the picturesque village of Bray, an hour’s drive from London. Challenge the second generation Roux bothers run establishment and you’ll be surprised at what they conjure up. Worried that your food might be just a tad too bland? Simply ask them to “spike it up!”

Vietnam and Cambodia
Hard to believe as it may be, there are enough options here for vegetarians. Eat their typical rice dim sum on the streets or in the hotels, with your choice of vegetable fillings. On the streets, you’ll see the locals rolling out thin rice crepes that you can then fill with your choice of stuffing. Mix in their sauces, add a dash of vinegar and you’re in food paradise!

Switzerland
Home to the world’s finest cheeses, fresh vegetables and fruits, you’re likely to be spoilt for choice here. Head to Staad where the skiing slopes are and dine at a mountain hotel run by students from the world’s best Le Cordon Bleu schools. They’ll go all out to impress, serving original vegetarian dishes, cheese fondues and freshly roasted vegetables!

Mexico
A nation that won’t leave you hungry! Apart from their vegetable enchiladas and nachos, Mexicans also make their version of the Indian khakra. Made from corn flour, Mexican crackers are thin, square shaped and come in a variety of flavours. Stick to a cracker and cheese diet if you wish or head to a local shop and choose from a wide variety of vegetable pastes in spill-proof packaging that you can simply spread on!

Make it large!
- Even if you are vegetarian, be willing to experiment with the local cuisine. Flavours will be different, savour them.

- Wherever you go, try and adapt the food to your tastes. In Japan, ask for sushi with avocados, carrots and cucumbers instead of fish and shrimp. Similarly, in Egypt or Turkey, eat plenty of dates, nuts and vegetables.

- You can’t go wrong with a salad. All you need are fresh vegetables, a dash of vinegar, honey or chilli sauce for taste.

- You’ll find a superstore everywhere. Buy bread, cheese, spreads, vegetables, pepper and paprika to make your own sandwich or wrap.

- Visit the local markets for their unique variety of produce - vegetables and fruits you’re not likely to eat anywhere else. A local restaurant in such a market will serve up an authentic vegetarian meal which you are sure to enjoy. You’ll probably keep coming back for more!

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