by Nandini Natasha Austin, Certified Ayurveda Movement Coach & Ayurvedancer
June was a whirlwind month, marked by a collaboration that merged astrology, and featured Mauritian cuisine, creating a vibrant cultural experience in Woodstock, NY. The stage was set at Schein Studios, a modern culinary space with expansive windows and an open-plan kitchen that fostered new connections among a group of eager guests embarking on a unique experiential culinary journey.
The evening commenced with a chic "Golden Hour" reception, where guests mingled over "La Vie en Rose," a refreshing concoction crafted by Yusef from The Cocktail Architect, an upstate mixology company that architects experiences with artisan mixers powered by spice. The signature drink, infused with Stinging Nettle from their Olivebridge garden, Elderflower, and the Chinese power herb Cornflower Flour, set the tone for an evening of sensory exploration.
As traditional Mauritian Sega music played, platters of creatively re imagined street food, known as ‘Gadjacks’ (mini bites) featuring Gateaux Piment (Chilli cake sliders) and mini samosas, circulated the room—a fusion of East and West flavors. Mauritius, a tiny island in the Indian Ocean, is a melting pot of unity and diversity, boasting vibrant street food culture and chef-driven hotels. I brought a taste of Mauritius to Woodstock, NY, sparing guests the 20-plus hour journey.
The dinner, served family-style in lavish, colorful ceramic bowls, featured fragrant aromatic Indian curries called ‘Daube’ with digestive spices, alongside freshly made ‘Faratas,’ a delightful fusion of roti and croissant perfect for soaking up flavorful sauces. An array of spicy condiments including Mango pickles, chutneys, and raitas complemented the meal.
As the night progressed, guests savored Mauritian cuisine's rich, diverse flavors—a blend of Indian, Chinese, African, and European influences. Each dish narrated a tale of cultural heritage and culinary innovation, enhanced by the playful integration of astrology and gastronomy.
Astrology Meets Gastronomy
The evening continued with an enlightening astrology session, where participants received custom charts detailing their sun, moon, and rising signs. Guests delved into personalized astrological readings exploring the alignment of celestial bodies with Rene Rotkopf, a night of self-discovery and exploration.
A Sweet Conclusion
The night concluded with a light, refreshing Kaffir Lime Leaf Lemongrass Tiramisu infused with The Cocktail Architect's artisan mixer, stimulating digestion—a perfect end to the Mauritian gastronomic journey. Each guest departed with a custom masala tea spice blend and dehydrated lime wheel, ensuring the flavors lingered into the morning with a cup of Masala chai.
As the event concluded, guests reflected on the blend of astrology and Mauritian cuisine that made the evening extraordinary. It was more than dining; it was a celebration of unity in diversity, a journey of self-discovery through flavors and astrological revelations. For that night, everyone felt transported to the shores of Mauritius, immersed in its warmth and hospitality.
Cheers
Nandini Natasha Austin
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