Hey there! I'm Sam, and I'm thrilled you stumbled upon CookingTantra.
Welcome to my Food & Travel blog! If you’ve ever wondered what happens when an insatiable love for Indian food and a knack for wandering collide, you’re in the right place. Dive into the art of cooking—the “tantra”—and the magic of travel with me, where every recipe and destination has a dash of spice and a sprinkle of surprise. CookingTantra is more than just a food & travel blog; it’s my tribute to the people, places, and stories that make the Indian Odyssey one heck of an adventure.

Roots of My Culinary Passion
Picture this: a five-year-old me standing on tiptoes, rolling rotis and puris like a tiny dough master. My mom’s kitchen was my culinary playground, where I learned the art of cooking through playful experimentation. I absorbed cooking spells (skills) and potion-making tips (recipes) that transformed me from a curious observer into a food enthusiast. Who knew that those early days of dodging flour clouds would ignite a lifelong passion for cooking?
My Travel Story
At three, I didn’t just learn to walk—I learned to wander. My father’s adventurous spirit packed us off to Bhutan, the Himalayan kingdom where happiness is the national sport. Wandering through stunning monasteries and vibrant festivals, my travel bug bit hard. We didn’t stop there. Nope. We crisscrossed the Northeast, North, and East India, turning every trip into a culinary and cultural treasure hunt. Each journey added a new flavor to my growing love for India’s diverse cuisine.
Whispers of the Past: A Journey Through Time and India
Fast forward to now, and travel is still my jam—but now it’s a family affair. My wife, daughter, and I have turned “adventures across India” into our weekend hobby. From Rajasthan’s majestic forts to Kerala’s serene backwaters, and from Gujarat’s vibrant markets to Goa’s coastal flavors, every trip is like a Bollywood movie—full of drama, color, and mouth-watering food scenes. We’ve also soaked in the spiritual vibes of Madurai and the cultural richness of Kolkata.
Our travels have only made us fall more in love with India, and sharing these experiences fuels my passion like a never-ending buffet. And who could forget those epic train journeys? Packing food, discovering new places, and devouring piping hot samosas at stations like Siliguri—those early adventures were the spark that lit my wanderlust.







Join Me in Discovering India’s Flavors and Stories!
At CookingTantra, I blend my two loves—cooking and travel—to serve up authentic recipes, captivating travel tales, and a hefty side of appreciation for India’s culinary heritage. Here, you’ll find detailed recipes, travel stories, and cooking tips from my escapades across India. With each post, I hope to tickle your curiosity, tantalize your taste buds, and make you fall head over heels for India’s food culture.
We’ll whip up family recipes passed down through generations, and when the aprons are hung, we’ll hit the road, tracing the footprints of India’s diverse landscapes. Whether you’re a foodie on the hunt for new recipes or a traveler seeking hidden gems, this blog has got your back. Join me as we explore the heart of India, one meal and one journey at a time!
As you dive into our content, you’ll find a treasure trove of experiences waiting for you. Explore captivating sections of our blog and discover more of what makes our journey unique and flavorful.
>Immerse yourself in our curated collection of mouthwatering recipes that celebrate the diverse and vibrant Flavors of Indian Cuisine. Whether you’re craving the bold and spicy flavors of Southern Spice, the rich and aromatic dishes of Northern Nibbles, the delicate and fragrant notes of Eastern Essence, the eclectic and zesty treats from Western Whisk, or the special delights of Festive & Seasonal Cuisine—we’ve got you covered! Hungry for more? Explore our entire Recipe Index for endless culinary inspiration!
>Explore deeper into the culinary wonders of India with Culinary Chronicles. This section showcases Gourmet Expeditions, where we travel across the country to uncover and celebrate diverse culinary traditions. Dive into Flavorscapes for exclusive interviews with top chefs, revealing their insights, stories, and culinary secrets. Finally, delve into Sampradaya Thalis, exploring the rich heritage of regional thalis, each telling a unique story of its own.
>Embark on adventures across enchanting landscapes with Discover India and explore the unparalleled beauty and adventure this incredible country has to offer. Discover stunning mountain destinations and their adventures in Mountain Getaways. Explore rich biodiversity in Wildlife Wonders. Stroll through historical marvels in Heritage Trails. Immerse yourself in vibrant markets and serene beaches in Beaches & Bazaars.
>We’d Love to Hear from You! Have questions, feedback, or just want to say hello? Contact Us, and we’ll get back to you soon!