Food And Religion- # Part 8, Exploring Vishu And Food Symbolism
Vishu, the vibrant festival of Kerala, is a unique celebration of prosperity and cultural symbolism. It encapsulates the essence of happiness, hope, abundance, and cultural spirituality. Vishu is a collection of customs deeply rooted in Hindu culture, each with profound significance. Notably, the food items we receive from nature are a powerful symbol of prosperity. Let us learn about cultural customs that symbolise abundance in our lives.
Vishu Kani
The day starts with the ritual of ”Vishu Kani.” Elderly family members arrange all the auspicious items beautifully in front of the god, which is the main ritual of Vishu. The items include gold, vegetables, fruits, flowers, crops, fabrics, etc. This is the first thing the family members see when they wake up. This creates a space that inspires and uplifts, setting the tone for a great year ahead.
Vishu Kaineettom
Elders gift money and gold to the family’s younger members and wish them good fortune in the coming year. This symbolic ritual is known as Vishu Kaineettom.
A Day Filled With Happiness
Gathering with loved ones, sharing a hearty meal, and lighting crackers are all part of the fun of this festive tradition. The menu is dominated by unique dishes that are worth trying. There are a few special dishes that are a must-try for Vishu celebrations.
Vishu Katta
Some dishes will definitely take you to childhood memories. Vishu katta is such a dish which will make you nostalgic. Vishu Katta is made by steaming coconut milk, jaggery, and rice in a banana leaf. Indulging your senses with the delectable aroma and flavour of this delightful treat is a different experience.
Vishu Kanji
The main ingredients of this rice soup are cooked rice and coconut milk. The taste is matchless when this kanji is consumed with a spoonful of ghee, traditional mango pickle, or dry mango chutney.
Vishu Ada
It is the season of jackfruit and mangoes. As these fruits are readily available, some special foods still hold centre stage during the Vishu celebrations. Vishu ada, a steamed rice cake made with jackfruit and jaggery, is one of them.
Jackfruit Payasam
It is a must-try payasam recipe with a unique aroma and taste.
Ingredients
Ripe jackfruit – 1 bowl
Jaggery powder – ½ kilo
Ghee – 3 tablespoon
Thick Coconut milk – 1 cup
Thin coconut milk – 2 cups
Cardamom powder – ½ spoon
Dry ginger powder – ½ spoon
Chopped coconut – ½ bowl
Preparation
In a thick and large bowl, cook the ripe jackfruit until it becomes mushy. Combine the jackfruit and jaggery powder and mash them together. Add the ghee once the jackfruit paste has thickened in the pan with the melted jaggery powder.
Add thin coconut milk and dry ginger powder. Let the jackfruit cook in the coconut milk.
Once the payasam thickens and extra water content is released, turn off the stove and add thick coconut milk.
Deep fry the chopped coconut chunks in ghee. Add cardamom powder to the payasam along with fried coconut chunks. Enjoy this aromatic, delectable Jackfruit payasam along with the feast.