[Rated: 3/5]
Soya Bean is not only one of the cheapest, but also the best source of Protein available for vegetarians. Soya Express which has established itself as a chain in Delhi-NCR, uses this basic ingredient in 80% of its dishes.
Wondering, if the visit would be worth, we stepped in the small take-away joint which had three chairs inside and two tables outside for the hungry souls. As kitchen shared the inside small dining space making the air-conditioning ineffective, we preferred to sit outside. The serving staff was attentive and immediately helped us understanding the concept and placing the order. I was impressed. Such trained manpower sometimes misses even at the high end restaurant, and here in a primarily a take-away or delivery outlet we were being spoiled.
Okay. Not so good things first. Ignore the sweet Chatti ki Lassi (25; Readymade version of something nowhere closer to a real Lassi) and Mazabaan Biryani (95; Pulao, at best). Since our aim was to try maximum dishes, we ordered half portion each. Afghani Tikka (60) is not to be missed. A crispy pan fried layer on outside gave it the bite and resemblance to the real thing. Malai Tikka (60) marinated with little cream, was soft and succulent, and Tandoori Tikka (60) was grilled to perfection. Just by changing the marination and cooking process, each dish was given a different flavor for the same base ingredient; the humble soya. The mint chutney served along, which I am very particular about, was nice and thick; just the way it should be.
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| Lassi |
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| Afghani Chaap |
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| Malai Tikka |
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| Tandoori Tikka |
Soya special Roll (65) was a nice spicy mix of capsicum and onion along with minced soya, but the Paneer Tikka Roll (60) was a usual Paneer affair. In the main course, Tawa Chaap Masala (65) was a heavy gravy dish with rich spices which camouflaged the real taste but tasted okay with the Lachha Parantha (15).
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| Special Soya Roll |
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| Paneer Tikka Roll |
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| Masala Tawa Chaap |
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| Kheer |
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| Large Kadai used to prepare Tawa Masala Chaap |
Soya is so versatile that it can be used in both savory as well as sweet dishes. I wondered why Soya Express didn’t think of a soya based dessert, and offered rice kheer (25) instead. Though served chilled in a well presented Kulhad and tasting fresh, we didn’t have much to complain about the kheer.
After having a hearty meal our total bill was a modest Rs 530 including a bottle of mineral water. For two souls of normal size, I bet the cost would be far less.
Ratings out of 5
Food: 3.5 | Ambience: 2.0 | Service: 4.0 | Overall: 3.0
Meal for two: Rs400 | Alcohol: No | Credit Card: No|
Address: A-133, Super Mart-1, DLF Phase-4, Gurgaon | Phone: 0124-6454314/15
– Pawan Soni
First Published in Suburb Magazine, Gurgaon
