Parsi Birthday Dinner

Okay this should be my last birthday post of the year. Phew! That was a lot, wasn't it? Lots of food celebrated with lots of friends and family. To be honest, I used to hate my birthday. But recently, I treasure them since I've been surrounded by such wonderful people in my life that want to celebrate it with me. You guys know who you are and thanks!

And now back to the food. What is a birthday without a Parsi Indian dinner? Oh yes, this menu is completely designed for me by me. It's one of the few times that I get to eat my favorite dishes all in one night. Oh to be pampered!!

First the appetizers which included kevab: seasoned beef meatballs grilled until just cooked. They come out so juicy and tender. The flavor of the spices, onion, coriander, and beef is strong and addicting. These are a must eat while still warm which of course leads to several of us overeating all the time. Myself included.

And a nice plate of cheese. I love cheeses of all kinds! Here we have port salut, muenster, and gouda. All creamy, mild cheeses. My Parsi family isn't too adventurous with their cheeses.

And finally, dinner!! What's an Indian dinner without rice? So here I picked the chicken pulav which is spiced rice cooked with chicken. Coriander, hard boiled eggs, and fried onions garnish the top. I love this rice. The saffron and other spices are so fragrant! Honestly, I would be happy with just this dish.

A little dahi, yogurt sauce, on the side for the rice. I'm not too much of a fan of yogurt on rice but some people love it.

Although the rice would have been enough for me,  I'm spoiled so I also picked shrimp masala as an accompaniment. I recently fell in love with this dish after Mrs. Executive Chef's most recent party. The shrimp was perfectly cooked and sat in a delicious and creamy sauce. I generously ladled this over my rice and ate every bit.

And a nice bowl of salad to round out the meal. I don't know what she puts in her salad that's not naked to the eye but it's are awesome. Yes, I said it. This salad is awesome. I actually crave this and ask for it at every dinner.

After we stuffed ourselves silly over dinner, we go through cards and gifts. Then it's time for dessert. Ms. Pastry Chef outdid herself! I asked for a take on neopolitan ice cream with strawberry, vanilla, and chocolate. She had full range in what to make and she came out with this.

Look at those beautiful layers! Intense strawberry ice cream, French vanilla ice cream, and chocolate cake. And everything was coated in chocolate ganache. LOVED, LOVED this.