A lady of Mangalore origin in Australia, Lavina Mendonsa, nee' Coelho, after much thought and effort is now all set to launch her Book "Deliciously Indian", on October 20, Sunday, in Sydney Australia. Down under, she lives with her husband Ivan and son Neil, since 1980s, . Her unique skills motivated her to bringing out of this book of 230 pages on Mangalore and India food. She says, " My book 'Deliciously Indian', is for all food lovers world over, authored for future generations to savor tastier and healthier Indian food".
Lavina Mendonca learned early cookery skills in a traditional form , from her mother as was the normal practice. She mentions that her mother once said to her, 'The way too people's hearts is through their bellies, and a husband will be tied to your apron strings by the food you dish up for him.....' Indian food was influenced by the colonisation of the French, British, Dutch, Portuguese, Arabs, Chinese and Persian traders, thus it fits the international palate. The same can be experienced through this book.
Mangalore local historian I J.S. Shet said, "Lavina whose family name before marriage was 'Coelho' and is a grand niece of Isidore John Coelho (1878-1968), the author of the famous legendary Mangalore cookery tome of the 1930s still in print - The Chef (Konkani version 'Randhap'). Author Isidore Coelho, is the brother of Lavina's grandfather Marian Coelho.
Australian author Lavina Mendonsa mentions, "The original copy of that ancient book, given to me by my mother when I came to Australia, although now in tatters, holds a place in my house as the sacred book is now over 75 years old. " She generously adds , "My forthcoming book 'Deliciously Indian' is a practical compilation of traditional Mangalorean recipes, dishes from many regions of India I learnt in Australia - from starters, snacks and soups to main meals that cater for vegetarians, meat and fish eaters. There are recipes for rice, breads, salads, chutneys, pickles, desserts and even a section for spice powders. It is my dream that you will enjoy cooking and eating the delicious recipes that fill each page of this book with true love. Watch for the Amazon order details post release on my website 'www.deliciouslyindian.net' . It is always my dream that the recipes stay alive for many future generations, "
Indeed this book "Deliciously Indian" , will realize delicious dreams and sentimental nostalgia of generations, a true reality for the future.
Ivan Saldanha Shet