For someone constantly travelling, tasting, and discovering new cuisines, it says a lot about a chef’s choices when it comes to what they return to in their own kitchen.
Shipra Khanna explores global food
cultures and the stories behind them on her new show. But her personal favourites strike a balance between comfort, technique, and indulgence.
Here are four recipes she keeps coming back to:
1. Kathal Ke Galouti Kebabs
If you are craving something indulgent yet meat-free, this dish hits the sweet spot, rich, soft, and packed with flavour without feeling heavy.
Ingredients:
2 cups raw kathal (boiled and shredded)
1 medium onion (finely chopped)
1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
2 tbsp roasted besan
1 tbsp cashew paste
½ tsp garam masala
½ tsp cumin powder
½ tsp coriander powder
½ tsp red chilli powder
½ tsp kebab masala (optional)
Salt to taste
1 tbsp ghee
Method:
Heat ghee and sauté the onions until golden.
Add ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw smell disappears.
Add shredded kathal and spices; cook until dry and aromatic.
Lightly mash the mixture for a soft texture.
Add roasted besan and cashew paste to bind.
Shape into tikkis and shallow fry on low heat until golden.
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
On days when you want something quick, minimal, yet satisfying, this is the kind of dish you turn to.
Ingredients:
200 g spaghetti
4–5 garlic cloves (thinly sliced)
¼ cup olive oil
1 tsp chilli flakes
Salt
Fresh parsley (optional)
Parmesan (optional)
Method:
Boil pasta in salted water until al dente; reserve some pasta water.
Heat olive oil, add garlic, and cook until lightly golden.
Add chilli flakes.
Toss in the pasta with a splash of pasta water to create a silky sauce.
Finish with parsley and parmesan, if using.
Chilled Kesar Pista Milkshake
If you are in the mood to treat yourself, this one feels like dessert in a glass, nostalgic, creamy, and indulgent.
Ingredients:
2 cups chilled milk
2 tbsp sugar
10–12 pistachios (soaked and peeled)
A few saffron strands (soaked)
1 scoop vanilla ice cream (optional)
Ice cubes
Method:
Blend all ingredients until smooth and creamy.
Pour into chilled glasses.
Garnish with pistachios and saffron strands.
Curd Rice
When you want something simple, comforting, and fuss-free, this classic always delivers.
Ingredients:
1 cup cooked rice
1 cup curd
Salt
Tempering:
1 tbsp oil
½ tsp mustard seeds
1 tsp urad dal
Curry leaves
1 green chilli
1 dried red chilli
A pinch of hing
Extras (optional):
Grated carrot
Pomegranate
Coriander
Method:
Mix rice, curd, and salt until creamy.
Prepare the tempering and pour it over the rice.
Add optional toppings for texture and freshness.
