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(February 29, 2007)
There is a certain expectation regarding most Indian
restaurants like the Star of India: they will inevitably have a buffet.
And indeed they do. And the buffet is stellar, offering appetizers like
sumptuous Samosas, vegetable dishes like Saag Paneer and seared meats
like Tandori Chicken. And they've also added lamb and chicken kabobs
cooked on the Tiwa. This is a custom grill designed to seal in the flavor.
The buffet is available at lunch and dinner and is excellent: but I
want to introduce you to some other menu items which I find virtually
irresistible. Take time to taste these and I suspect you'll agree.
First, while the more familiar Naan bread gets all
the publicity, one should not overlook the healthier Paratha. This is
buttered and layered whole wheat bread that I find delightful. And the
Aloo Paratha stuffed with fresh peas and potatoes also has a wonderful
flavor and texture. These are the breads of choice of many Indian families.
And from the Tandoor, there's much more than just
Tandori Chicken. Try Star of India's Tandori Prawns. These large prawns
are marinated in fresh Indian herbs and the searing flavor produced
by the tandoor is very appealing. The tandoor also enhances the texture
of the shrimp. The Chicken Madras is another dish you won't see on the
buffet that's a must try. This blends tender morsels of chicken in a
sauté pan with potatoes and chili peppers. The level of heat
is considerable in this dish: but it's commensurate with the level of
taste. And ask Jae to make you the Cabbage Bhij on your next visit.
This is fresh cabbage sautéed with peas and carrots and Indian
spices. It is one of the tastiest vegetable dishes you will encounter
in the River City. I'm addicted to it. As I am to the Beef Curry. This
dish follows the traditional jaipuri method for curry from the state
of Rajasthan and the result is savory and tender and laden with intriguing
flavors. And finally, try the Lamb Shahi Koma. This is not as fiery
as the other dishes: it has a mild and very delectable cream and almond
sauce. But the lamb is exceptionally tender with flavors that are subtle
instead of overpowering.
For dessert try the traditional Indian Rice Pudding
Kheer Badami and the very-difficult-to-resist Mahai Mango Sundae.
So consider those options on your next dinner at
Star of India. The buffet is a reliable and delicious option, but other
surprises are just a moment away. Take time to avail yourself of some
of these other great entrees.
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