Next month Jamavar, the Michelin-starred Indian restaurant on Mount Street, Mayfair, will join in the celebrations of India’s annual Alphonso mango festival with a host of new dishes that pay homage to the highly-prized fruit.
This mango, which is known as the 'King of mango', is named after Alfonso de Albuquerque, a Portuguese general and military expert who helped establish Portuguese colonies in India.
Jamavar’s Culinary Director Surender Mohan has added a twist on several of their signature dishes that showcase Alphonso mango’s unique, slightly floral flavour: Chandni Chowk Ki Aloo Tikki, spiced potato tikki, honey, yoghurt and white radish served with a raw mango and mint chutney; and Murgh Malligai, tender chicken with buttermilk, ginger and raw mango pachadi, a hung curd dip from the south of India.
For something sweet, there’s a trio of Alphonso mango desserts: a lightly-spiced Mango and Cardamom Tart; a Mango cheesecake made with malai, an Indian milk delicacy; and a fresh Mango Rasmalai, made by soaking sweet chhana in malai.
Jamavar’s bar will also be on hand with a Grenadiers cocktail of Sipsmith gin, mango and fresh coriander, spiked with lime juice and a shaving of coconut. To cleanse the palate, there’s a Mango and Ginger lassi, combining the refreshing fruity flavour with the heat of ginger.
Co-founder Samyukta Nair said, “Alphonso mangoes are a national obsession in India at this time of year. They’re seen as a sign of love and respect and during the season, are often sent as gifts to friends and family. It’s one of the highlights of my year, so I’m looking forward to sharing it with Londoners.”
Mohan added, “Known as ‘King of Mangoes’, the alphonso provides a sweet, soothing flavour to follow spicy food, and the perfect palate-cleanser to round off a dinner.”