Nestled high in the rain shadow of the Himalayas lies a splendidly remote region long shrouded in mystery locally known as “Mustang”, the last surviving ancient kingdom of the trans-Himalayan world. Stringent royal decrees once enforced complete isolation of this starkly beautiful rain-scarce desert valley for centuries. Thankfully now open, modern creatives flock to channel Rawicz-esque fantasies amidst towering ochre cliffs and the world’s highest polo fields.
For culinary explorers craving a taste of Mustang’s Tibetan-influenced culture, Mountain View’s premier Nepali restaurant Everest Cuisine transports imbibers straight to the Kingdom’s isolated kitchens with authentic specialties painstakingly recreated under Chef Sagar’s guidance. A native of Mustang herself, her mastery breathes life into regional flavors seldom found beyond the Himalayas.
The Mustangi specialty prized for centuries remains the Lahya – sausage links hand-twisted from pounded yak, mutton and spices then broiled over an open flame. Everest Cuisine replicates the smoky medley to T, charring casings just so until yielding tender bites erupting with umami. Other offerings transporting patrons include Khapse – sun-baked butter cookies whose shells crackle with each indulgent snap.
Central to Mustang’s subsistence remains Tsampa, Tibet’s national porridge blending roasted barley flour with yak butter tea or milk curd. At Everest Cuisine, each creamy steaming bowl arrives dusted with optional spices reflecting variations across the Kingdom’s valleys, a warm comfort for body and soul.
Modern fusions also emerge inspired by Mustang’s rugged scenery with locally foraged/cultivated gems. Recent debuts heightened regional flavors through the combustion of new ingredients, such as Sautéed Yak Ribeye encrusted with Wild Himalayan Blackberries or Beet Pasta stabilized by Wood Ear Mushrooms.
Through faithful showcasing of lesser-known Mustang traditions with inventive updates, Everest Cuisine transports diners beyond cultural horizons to experience Himalayan hidden gems through the rich medium of culinary cross-pollination. Distinguished creations like these surely whet global tastebuds for direct discovery of Nepal’s mountain treasures still cloaked in mystique.