Eat @Kaner Retreat

 



 


A plate of food is a story!

It is the story of people, culture and above all love. The best meals that we have had are more than ingredients. 

Growing up in a desert, I realised that you never have the problem of plenty. Things are scarce and preservation is the order of the day. You only get greens in the winters and you try and save some for the summers. If this is the situation now, I wondered what happened when there was no transport bringing the greens and other vegetables - how did people survive?

My research led to the discovery of famine foods and the plants that helped in the survival of the people during long spells of droughts. At Kaner we have managed to create micro habitats where we showcase the plants that were and are used as famine foods. Each plant is a protagonist in the story of the Thar Desert. We tell you the story of these plants through the trails at the retreat, and you can sample some of the plants in the cuisine.

Over the years, innovations in agriculture led by CAZRI (Central arid zone research institute) and Rajasthan Horticulture Department have motivated the farmers to try new crops that can thrive in the Thar. Today, some progressive farmers are growing Medjool Dates, Olives, Sesame Seeds and Pomegranates. This has helped us curate a Mediterranean inspired menu. 

The plate at Kaner has the history, present and the future of the Thar Desert cuisine.

Sapna Bhatia


Location: Hapasar, Rajasthan 342025, India

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