7 Parsi dishes that Ratan Tata loved the most

Known for his simplicity, Padma Vibhushan Ratan Naval Tata recently passed away. He was considered India's most respected industrialist and was a true Parsi who shared a deep bond with food. He loved eating homemade Parsi food and maintained a tight connection with Parsi roots. Parsi preparations are a treat to the senses, rich and flavoured, carrying cultural heritage into them. Parsi cuisine is said to be influenced by Persian and Indian cuisines. It features a balance of sweet, sour, and spicy elements, often using ingredients like mutton, seafood, lentils, and rice. Here is a list of some of the traditional Parsi dishes that Ratan Tata loved eating. (Images courtesy: Instagram)

Dhansak is another true, quintessential Parsi dish-cooked it slowly by simmering mutton or chicken with lentils and vegetables, thickened with a combination of spices, culminating in a flavourful stew over caramelized brown rice. It's a Sunday favourite, in many Parsi households, including Late Ratan Tata's.

A popular Parsi delicacy, this steamed fish dish is marinated in green chutney prepared with coconut, coriander and green chillies, wrapped up in banana leaves, and then steamed. It is said that Ratan Tata, known for his simple yet refined palate, used to enjoy this delicate yet healthy preparation.

Salli Boti is a spicy and tangy mutton curry topped with crispy potato straws known as salli. The mutton cooked in it is richly prepared tomato-based gravy, so sweet and sour balance. Being a part of Parsi feasts, this is one dish Ratan Tata loved immensely for its richness of taste and perfect texture.

Lagan nu Custard Parsi-style baked custard, to be served at weddings or festive occasions. This rich dessert, with milk, eggs, and sugar flavoured with cardamom and nutmeg, was one of Ratan Tata's favourites for its delicate sweetness and smooth texture.

Parsis love their Akuri, a spiced scrambled egg preparation with onions, tomatoes, and green chillies. It was the comfort food for Tata and he loved the perfect balance of spices and flavour.

Kolmi no Patio is a sour, spicy prawn curry cooked along with tomatoes, onions, and vinegar. Known for its bold and robust flavours, the dish normally goes well with rice or bread. Since Ratan Tata was a seafood lover, this had been the go-to dish to enjoy whenever he craved Parsi cuisine.

Parsi Mutton Pulao is an aromatic rice, where tender mutton and whole spices are cooked together and on top of that, it's garnished with fried onions, raisins, and cashews. Rich meat mixed with fragrant rice makes this an usually celebratory dish, which is something Ratan Tata loved.