Vikram VIj's Unique Flavours

For years I've been hearing all about Vikram Vij's venerable Indian food restaurant, Vij's in rainy Vancouver. Alas, the soggy year I lived there, I never got to try his fabulous food, but Vancouverites and visitors to the city are now able to enjoy what NY Times columnist Mark Bittman has called "easily among the finest Indian restaurants in the world!"

No small shakes for Vij who started humbly before moving to his more stylish digs. The woman in charge of making sure the food is an honest reflection of the flavours they both love and appreciate is Vij's wife, Meeru Dhalwala. From human rights and international development work to recipe development, Dhalwala made a huge career transition when she met and began dating Vij.

Luckily for diners, she's exceptionally good at what she does- crafting recipes that are modern with a traditional bent and that most importantly according to Dhalwala, "taste really, really good." Some would say superb- including Giada De Laurentiis, whom I saw dining at Vij's this past weekend on her new series, "Giada's Weekend Getaways."

So, as my Valentine to you dear readers, I'll be posting a couple of Vikram and Meeru's recipes for your enjoyment, with their consent of course. Perfect for the new long weekend we have coming up here in Canada! Finally, a flavour of Vij's- even if I have to make it myself. Enjoy!