Food & Drink editor Saihaj Kaur reviews University of Birmingham Sikh Society’s Langar on Campus
The University of Birmingham’s Sikh Society held their annual Langar on Campus in early February this year, bringing together students and staff for a hearty vegetarian meal. Set up in a marquee just in front of Old Joe, the event upheld the Sikh values of selfless service and generosity, as the society openly welcomed all regardless of religion, caste and gender.
Langar, or community kitchen, was introduced by the first Sikh Guru, Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Langar is more than just free food; it is a symbol of community and unity. Everyone in attendance sits together on the floor side by side as equals, symbolising the Sikh values of unity and oneness, regardless of status.
The food was in abundance and consisted of dhaal, a hot yellow lentil soup that paired beautifully with the soft roti (chapati), made from wheat flower and water, perfect for scooping up the goodness of the lentils. The sabji, made from a mix of vegetables and spices such as potato, carrot, ginger and cumin, was packed full of flavour- perfect for the crisp winter day. Samosas were also circulated around campus during the promotional activities in the early hours of the morning. These little pockets of triangular-shaped golden flaky pastry, with a pea and potato filling, were served in little goodie bags, providing the perfect warm energy boost needed for the lectures and seminars ahead. The array of drinks ranged from water and squash to fizzy drinks such as Coca-Cola and Fanta, perfect for quenching your thirst.
“The sabji, made from a mix of vegetables and spices such as potato, carrot, ginger and cumin, was packed full of flavour- perfect for the crisp winter day
With all the savoury food it was, of course, mandatory for someone with a sweet tooth, like myself, to indulge in the variety of cakes. The eggless fresh fruit and cream cake was light and fluffy, while the chocolatey brownies were airy, with more of a cake-like taste and texture. There was also a selection of decadent vanilla cupcakes with chocolatey icing with a generous sprinkle of Oreo crumbs. This proved to be a firm favourite, as they were finished almost instantly. Each dish was prepared and served continually with gratitude by the Sevadaars (volunteers), demonstrating the spirit of Langar- humility and inclusivity.
“Attending this year’s Langar on Campus was truly an amazing experience, one which I definitely recommend
Attending this year’s Langar on Campus was truly an amazing experience, one which I definitely recommend. Those who missed out this year – please come next time! Those who attended left with full stomachs and warm hearts, and it was absolutely wonderful to hear the number of people trying South Asian cuisine for the first time; and absolutely loving it.
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