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Tag: Anahita Dhondy

  • Godrej Yummiez launches Korean meatballs with chef Anahita Dhondy

    Godrej Yummiez launches Korean meatballs with chef Anahita Dhondy

    MUMBAI: Love is in the air and this time, it’s spiced with gochujang! India’s festive kitchens are getting a Korean twist as Godrej Yummiez, the ready-to-cook frozen foods brand from Godrej Foods Ltd, launches its Korean style chicken meatballs, just in time for the celebrations.

    To mark the launch, the brand has rolled out a digital campaign featuring chef Anahita Dhondy, who brings her signature flair to a two-part video series that blends tradition with trending flavours. Shot amid the colours and chaos of Pujo and Dashain festivities, the films spotlight easy, mouth-watering recipes made for modern Indian homes.

    In the first episode, chef Anahita whips up a chicken meatball toast a late-night saviour for those 2 am post-pandal cravings. The second film dives into Dashain celebrations, where she serves up chicken meatball skewers with Korean atomic sauce, perfectly marrying spice, tang, and togetherness.

    With just five ingredients and minimal prep, the new Korean-style meatballs prove that festive cooking doesn’t need to be complicated to impress. Backed by the India Snacking Report (Sttem 2.0), which found that 71 per cent of Indians prefer frozen snacks during festivities, Yummiez is clearly in step with the nation’s evolving palate.

    Each pack delivers 12g of protein per 100g, preserved with the brand’s IQF freezing technology, ensuring freshness, flavour, and convenience in every bite. Priced at Rs 190 for a 250g pack, the range is now available across Kolkata and Northeast India, with festive discounts adding extra cheer.

    “India is stepping into its most joyous season, where food and celebration go hand in hand,” said Godrej Foods Ltd head of marketing & innovation Anushree Dewen. “Our Korean style chicken meatballs bring a global twist to Indian festivities: delicious, nutritious, and incredibly easy to make. Through Chef Anahita’s recipes, we’re showing how simple it is to turn festive moments into something special.”

    So, whether you’re a midnight snacker or the host with the most, Godrej yummiez korean style chicken meatballs promise to make every celebration more flavourful. Go on, say Saranghae to your new festive favourite. 

  • Godrej Vikhroli Cucina reimagine monsoon cravings with a flavourful twist

    Godrej Vikhroli Cucina reimagine monsoon cravings with a flavourful twist

    MUMBAI: This monsoon, Godrej Yummiez and Godrej Vikhroli Cucina present ‘Cloudy with a Chance of Yummiez’, a campaign that turns classic rainy-day cravings into flavourful surprises. Through a 3-part video series featuring Chefs Anahita Dhondy, Amrita Raichand, and Ajay Chopra, the campaign showcases how Godrej Yummiez products can seamlessly elevate familiar monsoon snacks into crispy, flavourful, convenient delights, right from home kitchens to the city’s most loved street foods.

    Campaign Film Series:

    https://youtube.com/shorts/O9lBBEG7aIk?feature=share

    https://youtube.com/shorts/rXTKvic3S7U?feature=share

    https://youtube.com/shorts/K7gjM8BDyGk?feature=share

    Monsoon in India is incomplete without street-side snacks, from sizzling rolls to spicy chaat’s, it’s a season where cravings peak and food becomes a shared experience. The campaign taps into this deep-rooted connection by collaborating with chefs and iconic street food joints, bringing together familiar flavours and the versatility of Godrej Yummiez to show how a ready-to-cook frozen snack can do so much more than expected.

    The series opens in Delhi, where Chef Anahita Dhondy embraces the rainy-day feels from her home kitchen. With the city soaked and cravings in full swing, she turns to her freezer, and whips up a quick, podi flavoured crispy Chicken Nugget snack at home. Her video sets the tone for the series, nostalgic, experimental, and full of flavour, as she signs off by tagging fellow Chefs Amrita Raichand & Ajay Chopra and passing on the craving to continue the flavour trail.

    Back in Mumbai, the series picks up with Chefs Amrita Raichand and Ajay Chopra in conversation, texting about monsoon snacks and Anahita’s dish. One is in the mood for something nutritious yet crispy, the other inspired by regional flavours. Each steps out with a Yummiez pack in hand and heads to bustling food hotspots in Versova to put their own spin on monsoon favourites; Collaborating with Bhaap Re Bhaap, a Versova-based food truck, owned by Ayesha Khan, which is known for nutritious street food and Rongmit, a kitchen loved for its authentic Northeast flavours. Chef Amrita co-creates a fusion air-fried omelette using Hot & Crispy Chicken Bites, while Chef Ajay explores how Laphing can be elevated by the crunch and convenience of Yummiez Chicken Nuggets.

    Together, they fuse local favourites with the crispness of Chicken nuggets, high in protein and zero preservatives, elevating the dish with a satisfying crunch thus blending cultures and cuisines in a way that feels both inventive and deeply comforting.

    Speaking on the campaign, Godrej Foods Ltd. Head – Marketing & Innovation, Anushree Dewen said: “Speaking on the campaign, Anushree Dewen, Head of Marketing & Innovation, Godrej Foods Ltd. said: “We aim to empower consumers with snackable solutions that fit their dynamic lifestyles. This campaign showcases not just the versatility of our portfolio, but how it resonates across Indian culinary styles and spaces. Our collaborations with celebrity chefs and popular food spots help build rich, authentic narratives that place Godrej Yummiez at the heart of modern food conversations.”

    Sharing her experience, Chef Amrita Raichand mentioned: “The joy of cooking in the monsoon hits differently, especially when you’re working with something that’s already flavourful, and ready to go. I loved stepping out of the kitchen and onto the street to experiment in a setting that feels so real and relatable. Godrej Yummiez made it easy to turn a simple omelette into something memorable.”

    The campaign culminates in a UGC contest inviting audiences to remix their own monsoon snack using any Godrej Yummiez product. By sharing their creations and tagging the brand, participants stand a chance to win exclusive hampers and be featured across brand platforms.

  • McCain StarChef season two to air exclusively on Disney+ Hotstar India

    McCain StarChef season two to air exclusively on Disney+ Hotstar India

    Mumbai: Prepare for the ultimate cooking showdown as McCain’s StarChef Season 2 is coming on Disney+ Hotstar! After a successful premiere on GOODTiMES, the show will now stream exclusively on Disney+ Hotstar, airing on the platform from 15 May 2024.

    Building on the success of the inaugural season, Season 2 boasted an expanded format with five thrilling episodes. Four episodes were dedicated to the diverse culinary landscapes of each region in India. This season also featured a wildcard entry.  The panel of judges for McCain StarChef Season 2 is a stellar line-up of culinary luminaries. Leading the charge in the grand finale was the renowned chef Manish Mehrotra, while the regional episodes were graced by the discerning palates of Anahita Dhondy and Aditya Bal.

    Commenting on the brand-new season, McCain Foods India director – sales and marketing (food services, QSR and exports) Samantha Dutta said, “We are thrilled to bring McCain Star Chef Season 2 to audiences across the nation. This season represents a celebration of culinary diversity, talent, and innovation. The overwhelming response is a testament to the incredible pool of culinary expertise in our country. McCain StarChef is not just a competition; it’s a journey that brings together the rich tapestry of India’s regional cuisines. We are honoured to have esteemed judges, Manish Mehrotra, Anahita Dhondy, and Aditya Bal, guiding our contestants through this gastronomic adventure. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey like never. We’re thrilled to partner with Hotstar to bring this feast to the screens of every Indian household.”

    Taking the digital world by storm across platforms, McCain has also launched an interactive Augmented Reality or AR Filter on Instagram for this launch. While consumers take part in the heat of the sharp competition by using this filter, McCain is also engaging students, or soon-to-be chefs – by placing a QR Code across hotel management institutes across India. Students will be led to the AR filter post filling a detailed form via this code, which will help scout for the next up and coming StarChef! The filter can be found here. – to be embedded as hyperlink.

    This year, McCain StarChef received an overwhelming response from across the nation, with an astonishing 7000 entries from passionate and talented chefs vying for the coveted title. The competition promised to showcase the best of Indian cuisine, reflecting the rich and diverse culinary heritage that defines our nation.

    This partnership between McCain Foods India and Disney+ Hotstar ensures that the culinary brilliance of StarChef reaches audiences across the country. The show will be available in Hindi and English on the platform. Viewers can expect to be entertained, inspired, and blown away as they watch these culinary maestros transform ordinary ingredients into extraordinary experiences.

  • McCain StarChef Season 2: Culinary battle returns in style

    McCain StarChef Season 2: Culinary battle returns in style

    Mumbai: Get ready for a culinary spectacle like never before as McCain StarChef, India’s premier culinary battleground, returns for an epic season two to be broadcast on GOODTiMES, India’s first lifestyle channel. After the phenomenal success of the debut season in 2022, StarChef is turning up the heat and bringing a gastronomic extravaganza that promises to be a true feast for the senses.

    Building on the success of the inaugural season, season two boasts an expanded format with five thrilling episodes. Four episodes are dedicated to the diverse culinary landscapes of each region in India, culminating in a spectacular grand finale that will determine the ultimate StarChef of the year. To add an extra layer of excitement, the season will also feature a wildcard entry, ensuring surprises at every turn.

    The panel of judges for McCain StarChef Season 2 is a stellar lineup of culinary luminaries. Leading the charge in the grand finale is the renowned chef Manish Mehrotra, while the regional episodes will be graced by the discerning palates of Anahita Dhondy and Aditya Bal.

    Commenting on the brand-new season McCain Foods India director – sales and marketing (food services, QSR and exports) Samantha Dutta said, “We are thrilled to bring McCain Star Chef Season 2 to audiences across the nation. This season represents a celebration of culinary diversity, talent, and innovation. The overwhelming response is a testament to the incredible pool of culinary expertise in our country. McCain StarChef is not just a competition; it’s a journey that brings together the rich tapestry of India’s regional cuisines. We are honoured to have esteemed judges, Manish Mehrotra, Anahita Dhondy, and Aditya Bal, guiding our contestants through this gastronomic adventure. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey like never before. We’re thrilled to partner with GOODTiMES to bring this feast to the screens of every Indian household.”

    This year, McCain StarChef received an overwhelming response from across the nation, with an astonishing 7000 entries from passionate and talented chefs vying for the coveted title. The competition promises to showcase the best of Indian cuisine, reflecting the rich and diverse culinary heritage that defines our nation.

    GOODTiMES CEO Arati Singh said, “Reality shows are the heartbeat of entertainment, and we are thrilled to announce our continued partnership with McCain Foods India, for Season 2 of Star Chef, on GOODTiMES. The mini-series is packed to the brim with culinary adventures, kitchen artistry, a world of flavours and innovation as professional chefs enter a sizzling face-off to win the ultimate title of McCain Star Chef. This is not just another show but also a platform for seasoned chefs to carve their names into culinary history. Adding fire and crackle to the series will be celebrity chefs serving as judges elevating the competition and ensuring that every dish is a masterpiece.”

    This partnership ensures that the culinary brilliance of StarChef reaches audiences across the country. GOODTiMES is available on Tata Sky (Channel 762), Airtel Digital (Channel 410), and Samsung TV Plus (Channel 1375). Tune in to catch the culinary showdown on GOODTiMES Saturday, 13 January 2024 onwards at 8 pm.

    Get a mouthwatering sneak peek into the sizzling culinary showdown here:

  • Zee Zest announces the second edition of the Unlimit Awards in 2024

    Zee Zest announces the second edition of the Unlimit Awards in 2024

    Mumbai:  Zee Zest, India’s leading lifestyle platform is all set to return with the second edition of the highly anticipated Zee Zest Unlimit Awards 2024. The awards will recognize and felicitate those who inspire innovation, progress, and challenge the status quo; exemplifying the boundless possibilities in the world of food, travel and lifestyle.

    In an era where there is a strong craving for originality, genuineness, and groundbreaking ideas, the Unlimit Award celebrates those trailblazers who are reshaping the definition of innovation in the F&B, travel and hospitality industries. The awards presents an exhilarating array of categories, including Cuisine, Beverages & Nightlife, Travel and individuals . The winners will be decided by a combination of jury selection and viewer’s choice via voting process.

    The previous edition included trailblazing establishments like Izumi,Goa, The Craftery Subko, Mumbai, Avartana at ITC Royal Bengal, and Sidecar,Delhi among others winning the Unlimit awards. These awards stand as a level playing field, welcoming any establishment that has made significant strides in the realms of food, travel, and lifestyle to nominate themselves. It’s an inspiring opportunity for establishments of all scales to shine in the spotlight, gain well-deserved recognition, and set new benchmarks.

    An esteemed panel renowned for their significant contributions to the industry will meticulously assess and scrutinize entries across every category, while consumers cast their votes for their preferred choices to determine the victors. The jury – a mix of culinary and beverage experts, authors and filmmakers, influencers, photographers, and music artists will evaluate the entries based on their understanding and expertise in the industry.

    The illustrious jury panel includes renowned names of the industry like chef Ranveer Brar, food expert and chef Vinesh Johny, chef and restaurateur Anahita Dhondy, celebrity chef and TV presenter Shipra Khanna, actor and TV presenter Maria Goretti, chef and food historians Rakesh Raghunathan, Chef Ajay Chopra, content creators Ashwin Rajagopalan and Indrajit Lahiri, entrepreneur Aneesh Bhasin, musician Anish Sood, photographer Ajay Sood, influencer Nivedith Gajapathy, travel and food writers Anurag Mallick and Priya Ganapathy, Indian filmmaker Hansal Mehta, advisor for craft spirit Priyanka Blah, head programming at Zee Zest Srikant Malladi.

    The process of inviting nomination begins from 15 October – 29 November 2023. A total of 18 categories are open, encompassing top luxury hotels to resorts, cafes to QSRs, and fine-dining restaurants to the best nightclubs. Below is the list of categories –

    QSR

    Speaking of the event, Zee Zest chief channel officer Amit Nair said, “The Zee Zest Unlimit Awards aim to celebrate individuals who epitomize the ‘Unlimit’ perspective and establish fresh standards within the realms of food, travel, and lifestyle. These accolades pay tribute to those who spark innovation, drive advancement, and push the boundaries of conventional norms. For establishments, registering for the Zee Zest Unlimit Awards is not merely participation; it is an invaluable opportunity to etch their mark in the annals of excellence..”

    The second edition of Zee Zest Unlimit Awards is a golden opportunity for industry members to celebrate and honor those who have set new benchmarks in their respective fields. 

  • ‘Gourmet on Wheels’ reality show Femme Foodies to air on Living Foodz from 22 May

    MUMBAI: Get ready for a culinary adventure this summer, as Living Foodz, one of India’s leading food and lifestyle channel, has introduced Asia’s first food truck reality TV show, Femme Foodies, starting 22 May.

    Conceptualised in-house by Living Foodz, the original series is based on the unique concept of ‘Gourmet on wheels’. Femme Foodies is presented by Bertolli, with Suzuki Let’s as the Riding On partner.

    Set in picturesque locales in Goa, the show will see a bevy of 10 contestants armed with culinary skills and panache, compete for the ultimate grand prize: a premium, state-of-the-art food truck. The contestants will be seen competing in heart-racing challenges and cook offs and will be judged by Celebrity Chef Ranveer Brar.

    Restaurant chain Sodabottleopenerwala’s Chef Manager Anahita Dhondy and the renowned food and wine consultant Chef Shagun Mehra will join Ranveer on the judges panel for the first time on Living Foodz. The three judges will evaluate the contestants on the parameters of vision, expression and technique. Femme Foodies is set to elevate and redefine the food popularly associated with food trucks.

    Celebrity chef Ranveer Brar, one of the judges on the show, shares his experience, saying, “Food trucks are here to stay, and can be considered as a viable business option today. It is more than just a trend and the show, Femme Foodies, is a creative representation of the concept today. I will be judging the contestants on the parameter of ‘Expression’, which gives them the opportunity to express themselves on their plate. Passion for food and expression of oneself are one of the key ingredients to a successful dish.”

    The food truck trend became popular across Australia, Belgium, Canada, France and Mexico, evolving itself to include gourmet food. Food trucks have also gained popularity in Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad Bangalore and Ahmedabad, which has a dedicated food truck park.

    “Femme Foodies is centered around a refreshing concept which celebrates aspiring female chefs and their culinary prowess. It will pave the way for more female talent and opportunities in the food and hospitality space. My advice to any aspiring chef would be to focus on improving their technique and getting the basics right. This was a key criteria for me while judging the contestants on the show. I had a great experience working with the girls and the judges, as we bonded well over our common passion for food!”, said an excited Dhondy.

    “Femme Foodies goes beyond the confines of a kitchen and amalgamates gourmet food with talent, scenic locales , fun-filled challenges and food trucks! For me, vision is the key to making a perfect dish and it is important to envision the dish and the way it should be presented before one starts cooking. It was great to see the creativity of the contestants come forth throughout the competition,” Chef Shagun Mehra added.

    Commenting on the distinctive format of the show, Living Foodz business head Amit Nair said, “Living Foodz is focussed on offering original and innovative shows that center around the evolving trends in the food and lifestyle space. Our latest offering Femme Foodies is a first-of-it’s-kind show and is a key milestone for our channel. It presents a unique spin around the dishes associated with food trucks. We are excited to introduce two fresh faces on our channel, Chef Shagun and Anahita, who will join Chef Ranveer as a judge.”

    Living Foodz created a fun-filled music video, which features the contestants of Femme Foodies. Titled ‘Drive your passion’ the song features Neha Bhasin, Bianca Gomes and is composed by Clinton Cerejo. The music video has received over 1.6 million views so far within a week of it’s launch.