Chef’s Special at The Oberoi, New Delhi

Verve and The Oberoi, New Delhi, came together to create a morning of pleasant cooking sessions and a refreshing experience for women of the capital

Walking in, the ladies who had to battle the heat and traffic of Delhi, were served a variety of healthy fruit juices, tea and coffee. The Oberoi, New Delhi, an award-winning hotel, celebrates its golden jubilee this year. Standing proudly in the heart of the city, it caters to some of the most discerning travellers. Holding sentimental value for the locals and visitors, the hotel has witnessed various generations of patrons decade after decade. Travertino, an award-winning fine-dining Italian restaurant — started in association with Hotel Hassler, Rome — hosted this creative event. They serve the best authentic Italian cuisine in the city, and their interiors, with honey-coloured stone and a soft backlight, create an authentic feel of the southern European country.

A folder containing recipes, writing material and a chef’s hat was handed to the ladies and an apron was tied for each one, to protect their elegant attire. Chef Rohit Gambhir, executive chef at The Oberoi, introduced the enthusiastic participants to Chef Vincenzo Di Tuoro, Chef de Cuisine at Travertino. Originally from Naples, he joined The Oberoi from the Hassler Hotel in Rome — and taught the women how to effortlessly whip up appetising dishes, which included quinoa salad with tomato and Parmesan; ravioli del plin with goat cheese and orange; and risotto asparagus and pecorino. The interactive group further experimented with rolling some ravioli and piping it as well, before filling it with a hearty helping of goat cheese stuffing.

Flutes of champagne and glasses of ginger ale made their rounds of the room as the masterclass progressed, and Chef Vikas Vibhuti, pastry chef at the iconic Oberoi Patisserie and Delicatessen, stepped up to teach the batch how to make a delicious tiramisu. Seated on a beautifully laid table where a premium selection of wine was served with each course, the women indulged in delightful chatter and conversations that made the atmosphere a light one.

Finally, the ladies departed after a fun-filled morning with a goodie bag containing their very own copies of Verve magazine, their aprons and chef’s hats, and an exclusive picture with Chef Vincenzo Di Tuoro.

Bringing with him a gourmet experience, Chef de Cuisine at Travertino, Vincenzo Di Tuoro, studied at The Culinary College in Naples. He has travelled around Europe, innovating and experimenting all along. With a career of over 20 years, he has also trained under celebrated chefs Gordan Ramsay and Maurizio Morelli.

Chef Vincenzo will continue to offer personalised cooking masterclasses by prior appointment at Travertino.
www.oberoihotels.com