Indian-ish summary

Exploring Hybrid Cuisine

In Indian-ish, Priya Krishna invites us into her family kitchen, where her mother, Ritu, blends traditional Indian cooking with American ingredients and techniques. This hybrid cuisine, which Krishna affectionately dubs 'Indian-ish', is the heart of the book. It's a cuisine that reflects Ritu's journey from India to the United States, and her desire to create meals that are both familiar and new.

Krishna begins by introducing us to her family and their culinary journey. She shares stories of her mother's cooking, which is a unique blend of traditional Indian dishes, like samosas and dal, with American staples such as spaghetti and grilled cheese. Krishna also explains how her mother's cooking was shaped by her experiences as an immigrant, her career as a software programmer, and her love for food shows and cookbooks.

Recipes and Stories

Each chapter in Indian-ish is centered around a particular ingredient or dish, such as yogurt, eggs, or rice. Krishna provides a selection of her mother's recipes for each, along with personal anecdotes and insights. For instance, she shares the story behind Ritu's 'Saag Feta', a dish that combines traditional Indian spinach curry with crumbled feta cheese. Ritu created this dish to make spinach more palatable for her children, and it quickly became a family favorite.

Throughout the book, Krishna emphasizes how her mother's approach to cooking is rooted in practicality and resourcefulness. Ritu often improvises with ingredients, substitutes items based on what's available, and repurposes leftovers into new dishes. This flexible approach to cooking, according to Krishna, is a defining feature of Indian-ish cuisine.

Exploring the Pantry

In addition to sharing recipes, Krishna also introduces us to the key ingredients in her family's pantry. She explains the unique role each ingredient plays in Indian-ish cooking, and offers tips on how to incorporate them into our own kitchens. For example, she describes how Ritu uses yogurt as a marinade, a side dish, and even as a refreshing drink.

Moreover, Krishna provides a guide to the Indian spices and condiments used in her family's kitchen. She explains the flavor profiles of each, and suggests ways to use them in everyday cooking. This section is a valuable resource for those new to Indian cuisine, and provides a glimpse into the vibrant world of Indian spices.

Celebrating Family and Food

At its core, Indian-ish is a celebration of family, food, and the immigrant experience. Krishna's affectionate portrayal of her mother's cooking reflects the deep bond they share. It's a cuisine that is both a tribute to Ritu's Indian heritage and an expression of her American life.

In conclusion, Indian-ish is a delightful journey into the world of Indian-American cooking. Through her mother's recipes and stories, Krishna offers us a window into a unique culinary tradition that honors the past while embracing the present. It's a celebration of the food that brings us together, regardless of our cultural background or geographical location.