Food: Will Chef Saransh Goila's Butter Chicken be a takeaway favourite?

Butter Chicken

After whipping up food travelogues, chef Saransh Goila, along with partner Vivek Sahani, will launch his first delivery and takeaway venture Goila Butter Chicken in Andheri on July 1. The menu includes tikki chaats, biryanis and of course, his version of the Butter Chicken, which promises to have a smokey twist. "Kasoori methi and cashew nuts from Rajasthan and Goa, respectively, weren't enough to bring out the silky, moist texture that we were looking for. We dedicated meticulous hours to smoke the chicken to perfection and added dollop of butter. We ensured that there isn't an iota of cream or processed sugar in our secret recipe," shares Goila. To test the dish, the chef has been inviting people from various walks of life for what he called the #GoilaButterChicken nights.

Butter Chicken

Taste test
Packed neatly in a carry bag were two sealed handis, featuring the Goila Butter Chicken and Goila Butter Paneer, with a portion of Roomali Roti and a box of 24/7 Dal Makhani.

24/7 Dal Makhani

Butter Chicken (Rs 275): As we opened the earthern pots, the aromatic tender pieces of chicken were simmered in thick tomato gravy. We heard a satiating sigh from most members of our team after the first bite was taken, and dish was polished off within minutes. (Rating 5/5)

Butter Paneer (Rs 275): Loaded with chunks of melt-in-your-mouth cottage cheese and a smooth gravy, the dish turned out to be a milder version of its chicken counterpart. We'd have preferred stronger hints of spices to balance the sweetness. (Rating 3/5)

24/7 Dal Makhani (Rs 225): Supposedly slow-cooked through the week, this was one of the best versions of Dal Makhani we've tried in a while. Balanced with spices and perfectly cooked lentils, the thick dal made for a great comfort food with a bowl of steamed rice. (Rating 5/5)

The plus: The food didn't feel greasy or heavy at all. The sturdy earthen pots travelled with us, without spillage. We also loved the tangy-sweet anardana chutney that accompanied the offerings. The minus: While the pots add to the rustic feel of the dish, a microwave-friendly option might be more practical.