PM Modi hosts all-vegetarian gala dinner for BRICS leaders in New Delhi

Day of the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi concluded with a dinner gala hosted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday. An array of vegetarian dishes were served from diverse regions of India. 

New Delhi: As world leaders gathered in New Delhi for the two-day BRICS Summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosted an elaborate all-vegetarian dinner at Bharat Mandapam on Saturday.The carefully curated menu blended regional culinary traditions with contemporary presentation. The dinner showcased the breadth of India's culinary traditions.Distinctive starters open dinnerThe grand dinner began with two distinctive starters, Khandvi Mille and Khumb Galouti. The Gujarati-inspired Khandvi Mille featured steamed gram-flour rolls tempered with mustard, coconut and curry leaves, served with kesar mango, microgreens and a yoghurt dressing. The Khumb Galouti offered tender pan-grilled mushroom kebabs with mint pearls, presented on a bed of sheermal bread.BRICS Summit | Menu of the gala dinner hosted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Bharat Mandapam in Delhi pic.twitter.com/WSQnxIG0hZ— ANI (@ANI) September 12, 2026 The main course included Paneer Lababdar, featuring soft cottage cheese simmered in a rich shallot-and-tomato gravy, served alongside Gucchi Marmik, a preparation of Himalayan morel mushrooms and asparagus gently cooked with saffron, raisins and mamra almonds.BRICS Finance Chiefs Seek Stronger Financial Ties, Step Up Push For IMF and World Bank ReformsAdding a South Indian touch to the spread was Carrot Bean Poriyal, made with carrots and green beans tossed in aromatic spices, virgin coconut oil and freshly grated coconut. Thakkali Belle Saaru, a light lentil broth prepared with toor dal, fresh tomatoes and curry leaves, further complemented the meal.The main course also included Millet Pulao, combining fragrant basmati rice and pearl millet with spices and seasonal aromatics. Beetroot Raita, prepared with chilled yoghurt, beetroot and fresh herbs, along with an assortment of Indian breads, completed the savoury spread.Desserts and refreshing drinksThe dessert comprised two indulgent offerings: Old Delhi Fruit Cream with Jalebi brought together seasonal fruits and lightly whipped cream with crisp, sweet jalebi, while Shahtoot Phirni featured a slow-cooked milk-and-rice pudding topped with sweet mulberries and gold leaf.The drinks served at the dinner included pomegranate juice and coconut water, described on the menu as "a stream of refreshing flavours."