Food pairing is always about exploring unique blends and unfolding new layers of flavours. With the advent of social media, people are experimenting with contrasting flavours to create magic on the plate, however, one needs to understand the basics of food pairing before trying new blends. The contrasting flavour of salt with sweetness enhances the overall flavour, combining spices with the soothing effect of cream or dairy products creates richness in a delightful way and rich natural fatty foods go extremely well with sour food items. Let’s look at some of the non-traditional food combinations that blend contrasting tastes, textures and flavours to create magic on the palate. These combinations suggested by Chef.Sanjay Sharma, Head of School, Culinary Excellence might sound strange but, they blend in harmony to delight your senses and are worth trying.

A light and refreshing combination of thin slices of tomato with fresh mint is a summer delight.

A salad made with thinly sliced paneer with rich creamy mangoes adds richness and makes it a culinary delight.

The crunchiness of samosa contrasts beautifully with the velvety ice cream and the nutty texture of stuffing when combined with ice cream gives a hit to the palate.

Next time try adding honey over a paratha cooked in desi ghee, the kids will love it.

With regular adrak chai replace regular cookies or biscuits with Italian biscotti, it breaks the monotony and enhances the overall texture.

Methi thepla is paired with jaggery to balance the bitterness of fenugreek.

The nuttiness of Nutella adds to the flavour of warm roti which makes it a delight.

The sweetness and acidity of pineapple balances the spiciness and make it a refreshing delight.

Next time whenever you bake cinnamon-flavoured baked goods, try adding a hint of red paprika to it.

A mousse prepared with creamy avocado and silky chocolate is a baker's delight.

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