A culinary journey through Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Indonesia awaits guests at Okra’s vibrant food festival, blending authentic ingredients with diverse flavors.
As you step into Okra, the award-winning all-day dining restaurant at Hyderabad Marriott Hotel & Convention Centre, you are greeted by the aroma of exotic spices and the promise of a culinary adventure. The “Flavours of South East Asia” food festival is in full swing, showcasing the vibrant cuisines of Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, and beyond.
The brain behind this gastronomic journey, took me on a tour of the festival’s offerings. “We have got a mix of everything,” he said, “from Thai Green Curry to Vietnamese Pho, Malaysian Laksa, and Nasi Goreng.” The menu boasts an array of dishes, each crafted using authentic ingredients and cooking techniques.
Thai style Lamb Biryani was a revelation. “It’s not just one section,” Chef explains, “We have different dishes from Indonesia, Thailand, and beyond.” Next up was a starter made of sliced chicken, mushrooms, and cashew nuts.
Potato fritters dipped in egg, a non-vegetarian delight was surprisingly light and crispy and are a must try. There was also a Filipino-style dish with pork, tofu, which added a delightful depth of flavor.
But what really caught my attention was the vegan box, a testament to the festival’s inclusive approach. “We have got veg and non-veg options galore,” the Chef assured me. I opted for a veg dish, and he whipped up a pineapple fried rice with cashew nuts and raisins that was sweet, sour, and utterly delightful.
The festival’s ambience was equally impressive, with themed décor and live stations that transported me to the bustling streets of South East Asia. As I savored each dish, I felt like I was on a culinary journey, discovering new flavors and techniques at every turn.
