As we enter May my attention is firmly focused on opening the deli. In 2019 I started to visualize the Indian deli concept, a new and exciting foodie experience where I could draw in many different styles of Indian cuisine all under one roof. I was also aware that my new venture would be within cycling distance of home, rural, and a place where I wouldn’t be disturbed while the deli was closed and I was busy cooking. Looking back now it’s amazing to consider the power of our minds, how we can visualize something and then watch it manifested into our livee.
The deli was popularized in the mid-19th century by European immigrants arriving in the US. Wikipedia describes the deli as “a retail establishment that sells a selection of fine, exotic, or foreign prepared foods”. I really can’t think of a better description when I visualize an Indian deli counter.
So let’s talk about the food, what will you be able to purchase? Well, firstly we have to cover the curries, curries from every corner of India and further afield. And all made to super authentic “desi” recipes collected from my travels, contacts, and chefs in India. And while we’re talking about curry let’s not forget just how vast the choice will be, veggie, vegan, sattvic, chicken, beef, pork, duck, fish, shellfish, goat, and mutton. The list goes on with over 100 curries on our ever-evolving menu.
You’ll also find chaat, India’s famous street food. Available in kit form, our chaat boxes allow you to enjoy super authentic Indian street food as and when you like. Just take a box, mix the chutneys with the dry ingredients, and enjoy an explosion of flavour and texture.
As the deli grows I’ll be introducing further items such as desserts, sweets, and salads. A couple of years ago I developed a range of rice-based desserts with another food manufacturer. The idea was put on the backburner as we were too busy with other projects. So I hope to reintroduce these desserts vis the deli.
We’ll also hold a small range of ambient goods such as naan, chapati, authentic natural chutneys and pickles, cooking sauces, and local produce.
Chaat Man Indian Deli opens on May 29th from 10am to 4pm. From June onwards our opening hours will be Friday 12pm – 6pm and Saturday 10am – 5pm. Please pop in, you’d be most welcome.