Old Monk Rum founder Rocky Mohan may be best known for his popular liquor brand, but he has made an equally important impact on Indian cuisine. A connoisseur of fine food and cooking, Mohan has written four unique cookbooks. Each book demonstrates a deep knowledge of Indian cuisine and a passion for both tradition and innovation in the world of food. Read on for the story behind Mohan’s books, the origin of the ‘Old Monk’ name, and a delicious new take on a classic recipe. How would you describe the perfect meal? Is there really ever ‘the perfect meal’? I doubt it. There have been a number of memorable meals that I have had the opportunity of tasting. However, for me personally the meals that have challenged my taste buds and have surprised me through the combinations of ingredients are the meals that I remember most. Where did Old Monk Rum get its unique name? The name ‘Old Monk’ is derived from the knowledge that the monks were traditionally the purveyors and makers of fine wines, liquor, beers & cheese in their monasteries. Hence the label and name reflect that heritage. What is it like around your home during the holidays? Lots of cooking and revisiting traditional favorites? Can you share one with us? My home is a food person’s den. It’s fun to have both my sons cook with me on occasion and also to experiment with new combinations, taking traditional ingredients to a new level. There are numerous recipes which are traditional though with a twist. I’ll share one of the dishes with you. Here, the rather humble Masoor Dal is cooked in a manner where it looks whole and intact while soft and tender, using ingredients like curry patta. “The biggest...