Maneet Chauhan is a name synonymous with culinary excellence, thanks to her appearances on popular food shows like Chopped and Iron Chef America. However, what many people may not know is that this Indian-American chef has also made a name for herself in the world of craft beer. In this article, we will delve into the breweries owned by Maneet Chauhan, exploring her journey into the world of brewing and the unique offerings of her establishments.
A Brief Introduction to Maneet Chauhan
Before we dive into the breweries owned by Maneet Chauhan, let’s take a brief look at her background. Born in India, Chauhan moved to the United States to pursue a career in the culinary arts. She graduated from the Culinary Institute of America and went on to work in some of the top restaurants in the country. Her big break came when she appeared on the Food Network’s Chopped, where she became a regular judge and earned the nickname “The Queen of Indian Cuisine.”
Maneet Chauhan’s Entry into the World of Craft Beer
So, how did a celebrated chef like Maneet Chauhan make the transition into the world of craft beer? It all started with her love of Indian cuisine and the desire to create unique beer pairings that would complement her dishes. Chauhan began experimenting with different beer styles and flavors, eventually teaming up with her husband, Vivek Deora, to open their first brewery.
Maneet Chauhan’s Breweries
Maneet Chauhan is the co-owner of two breweries: Mantra Artisan Ales and Chauhan Ale & Masala House. Let’s take a closer look at each of these establishments.
Mantra Artisan Ales
Located in Franklin, Tennessee, Mantra Artisan Ales is a craft brewery that specializes in creating unique, Indian-inspired beers. The brewery’s name, “Mantra,” is derived from the Sanskrit word for “chant” or “incantation,” reflecting Chauhan’s Indian heritage. Mantra Artisan Ales offers a wide range of beer styles, from IPAs and stouts to sours and saisons. Some of their most popular beers include:
- Saffron Cardamom IPA: A unique IPA infused with saffron and cardamom, giving it a distinct Indian flavor profile.
- Mumbai Mango Sour: A tangy sour beer brewed with mango puree and a hint of spice.
- Tamil Nadu Stout: A rich, full-bodied stout with notes of coffee and chocolate.
Chauhan Ale & Masala House
Located in Nashville, Tennessee, Chauhan Ale & Masala House is a brewery and restaurant hybrid that offers a unique dining experience. The establishment is the brainchild of Maneet Chauhan and her husband, Vivek Deora, who wanted to create a space where they could serve both delicious Indian cuisine and craft beer. Chauhan Ale & Masala House offers a wide range of beer styles, including:
- Garam Masala Brown Ale: A malty brown ale infused with the warm, aromatic spices of garam masala.
- Cilantro Lime Lager: A refreshing lager brewed with cilantro and lime, perfect for hot summer days.
- Spiced Apple Cider: A seasonal cider brewed with a blend of spices, including cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom.
What Sets Maneet Chauhan’s Breweries Apart
So, what sets Maneet Chauhan’s breweries apart from other craft breweries? Here are a few factors that contribute to their unique appeal:
- Indian Inspiration: Chauhan’s Indian heritage is evident in the unique flavor profiles of her beers, which are inspired by the spices and ingredients of Indian cuisine.
- Food Pairings: Both Mantra Artisan Ales and Chauhan Ale & Masala House offer a wide range of food pairings, from traditional Indian dishes to more modern, experimental cuisine.
- Community Focus: Chauhan’s breweries are deeply rooted in their local communities, with a focus on supporting local farmers, artisans, and musicians.
Conclusion
Maneet Chauhan’s breweries are a testament to her creativity, passion, and dedication to the craft of brewing. Whether you’re a fan of Indian cuisine, craft beer, or simply looking for a unique dining experience, Mantra Artisan Ales and Chauhan Ale & Masala House are definitely worth a visit. So why not plan a trip to Tennessee and discover the magic of Maneet Chauhan’s breweries for yourself?
What inspired celebrity chef Maneet Chauhan to venture into the brewery business?
Celebrity chef Maneet Chauhan’s foray into the brewery business was inspired by her passion for craft beer and her desire to create unique, high-quality brews that complement her culinary creations. As a seasoned chef and restaurateur, Chauhan recognized the importance of pairing great food with exceptional beverages, and she saw an opportunity to fill a gap in the market by launching her own brewery.
Chauhan’s love affair with craft beer began during her travels, where she discovered a wide range of flavors and brewing techniques that sparked her creativity. She decided to bring this passion to her own business, combining her culinary expertise with her knowledge of craft beer to create a unique brewery experience that showcases her signature style.
What is the name of Maneet Chauhan’s brewery, and where is it located?
Maneet Chauhan’s brewery is called Mantra Artisan Ales, and it is located in Franklin, Tennessee, just outside of Nashville. The brewery is situated in a state-of-the-art facility that allows Chauhan and her team to experiment with innovative brewing techniques and ingredients.
Mantra Artisan Ales is part of the growing craft beer scene in Tennessee, and it has quickly become a popular destination for beer enthusiasts and foodies alike. The brewery features a taproom where visitors can sample Chauhan’s latest creations, as well as a kitchen that serves up delicious small plates and snacks to pair with the beers.
What types of beers does Mantra Artisan Ales offer?
Mantra Artisan Ales offers a diverse range of beer styles, from classic IPAs and pale ales to more experimental brews that incorporate unique ingredients and flavors. Chauhan’s beers are inspired by her Indian heritage and her love of international cuisine, and they often feature bold, aromatic flavors that reflect her culinary background.
Some of the brewery’s most popular beers include the “Saffron IPA,” which features the subtle, spicy flavor of saffron, and the “Mumbai Mango Chili Lager,” which combines the sweetness of mango with a spicy kick of chili peppers. Mantra Artisan Ales also offers a range of seasonal and limited-release beers that showcase Chauhan’s creativity and experimentation.
Can I visit Mantra Artisan Ales and take a tour of the brewery?
Yes, Mantra Artisan Ales offers tours of the brewery, which provide a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process and the opportunity to learn about Chauhan’s approach to craft beer. Visitors can take a guided tour of the facility, which includes the brewhouse, cellar, and packaging hall.
In addition to tours, Mantra Artisan Ales also hosts a range of events and activities, including beer tastings, live music performances, and food pairings. The brewery’s taproom is open to the public, and visitors can stop by to sample Chauhan’s latest beers and enjoy the atmosphere.
Does Mantra Artisan Ales offer food pairings and menus to complement its beers?
Yes, Mantra Artisan Ales offers a range of food pairings and menus that are designed to complement its beers. Chauhan’s culinary team creates small plates and snacks that showcase the brewery’s beers and highlight the flavors and ingredients that inspire them.
From classic beer-friendly fare like burgers and pretzels to more adventurous dishes that incorporate international flavors and ingredients, Mantra Artisan Ales’ menu is designed to enhance the beer-drinking experience and provide visitors with a unique and memorable culinary experience.
Can I purchase Mantra Artisan Ales’ beers outside of the brewery?
Yes, Mantra Artisan Ales’ beers are available for purchase outside of the brewery through a range of distribution channels. The brewery partners with local distributors to make its beers available in bars, restaurants, and retail stores throughout the region.
In addition to local distribution, Mantra Artisan Ales also offers online sales and shipping, allowing beer enthusiasts from around the country to purchase Chauhan’s beers and have them delivered directly to their doorstep. The brewery’s website features an online store where visitors can browse and purchase beers, as well as merchandise and other brewery-themed items.
What sets Mantra Artisan Ales apart from other craft breweries?
Mantra Artisan Ales is set apart from other craft breweries by its unique blend of culinary expertise and brewing innovation. Chauhan’s background as a chef and restaurateur brings a distinct perspective to the brewery, and her beers are designed to be paired with food and enjoyed as part of a larger culinary experience.
The brewery’s focus on international flavors and ingredients also sets it apart from other craft breweries, which often focus on more traditional beer styles. Mantra Artisan Ales’ beers are designed to be bold, aromatic, and full of flavor, reflecting Chauhan’s passion for experimentation and innovation in the kitchen and the brewhouse.