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Your Ultimate Guide to Night Life in Chennai!

Namma Chennai, Namma Night Night Life in Chennai is a subtle concept. The city is always looked up as a hub of cultural heritage and immaculate architecture. But do you know that even if Chennai might not be known as the party capital, the city harbours a vibrant, nonchalant, and nocturnal soul that comes alive when the sun sets down and the lights are out? Yes, you are right. Chennai has one of the best and low-cost nightlives where you can enjoy and explore the city more exquisitely. The city has a vibrant after-hours persona, which is unknown to most tourists and even to many locals. It’s time to discover it. In this blog, we will explore Chennai from the midnight marina walk to 24/7 food spots. This guide will lead you to experience nightlife that you have never heard before. Table of Contents When the City Transforms When the evening sea breeze sweeps through the streets and the last local trains wind down, that’s when the magic begins. A whole different and fun side of Chennai emerges when the massive crowds at T. Nagar disperse and workers head home from OMR’s glass towers. Our first stop is Marina Beach. Forget about the beaches of Pondicherry. Marina has its own aura. The beach is usually bustled with tourists and families, who arrive before dawn and stay longer after sunset. Try a Kulfi around Nagaraj Anna’s legendary Kulfi Stall, an institution that has been serving late-night sweet cravings for decades. And in no time, you’ll find yourself with a small group having fun. The place comes alive in a special way after dark. Every night, people from all walks of life, including some well-known celebrities drop by for a midnight snack. While their kulfi is a favorite late-night treat, what makes this place truly special are the stories that unfold here. Whether you’re a regular visitor or just passing through, you’ll find yourself part of the restaurant’s friendly late-night community. It’s become a beloved spot for anyone looking for good food and warm company during Chennai’s quiet midnight hours. Now that we are talking about beaches, After Marina Beach we have Thiruvanmiyur Beach. Like the Marina, you can also visit this beautiful and refreshing beach after midnight. The Beach remains crowded till late at night and if you’re craving for a drink then you might spot groups of friends sharing conversations over Moor Thatha’s famous Buttermilk, a drink that is the bestseller among night owls. The store Moor Thatha which translates to Buttermilk Grandpa has been serving his special blend for over 30 years. The Food Trail That Never Sleeps Do you know that Chennai is a city that refuses to sleep hungry? Street Food isn’t just about food; it’s also about the overall experience. Are you aware of delicious late-night buns and jam? You can savour tasty and iconic Bilal’s Bun-Butter-Jam in a satisfying midnight snack at Mount Road. It is claimed by the locals that the recipe for this iconic late-night snack has remained unchanged for decades. Talk about the special blend! The OMR isn’t just an IT corridor; it’s a 24/7 food paradise. Here you will find street food specially curated according to the taste of people who work late. It’s a hub, unlike the street food of other cities. Here, you will find varieties in street food, from traditional Tamil cuisine to Korean food trucks. One of the popular street dishes is the unnamed kadai near TIDEL Park which serves the best midnight Dosas. One of the best hangout scenes at midnight in Chennai is ECR. ECR has some legitimate and police-approved late-night hangout scenes. It’s best if you are craving for some authentic late-night cuisines like Ivalo Periyar Tandoori Fish, Marina Beach Fish Fry, Crab Soup, and Prawn Masala. It is made from seafood caught the same evening. Following the food trail, if you care to take a picture of two, or even conduct a professional session in the dark of the night, then move a little further down from ECR to Muttukadu Bridge. It has become a popular hangout amongst several photographers, and it’s quite peaceful and serene. You can spend the nonchalant midnight under the stars at the bridge until 4:30 AM. Yet, if you prefer fewer crowds than the main beaches, then why not transport yourself to a beach of tranquility that is the Neelankarai Beach Front. The best time to drop in is between 11 PM and 3 AM. Here you’ll find fewer crowds than the main beaches, better maintainence and safety as the police patrol regularly. If you are travelling for the first time and want to explore and know deep about the nightlife of Chennai, then around 4 AM you’ll notice a slight shift in the city’s energy. You can move to the classic Ratna Cafe for the first batch of filter coffee brews. For an authentic taste of Chennai’s culinary heritage, begin your day at this historic Ratna Cafe. Established in 1948, this landmark restaurant continues to serve its legendary sambar idli from 6 AM, following time-honoured recipes that have remained unchanged. Those seeking an alternative can venture to the celebrated Rayar Mess, which welcomes early risers from 6:30 AM Beyond the Obvious Now that we have talked about beaches, bridges, and street food, let me tell you about Velachery, a true local secret. This exquisite place hosts a 3 AM Dosa spot near Zaitoon that is unknown to even many locals. Likewise, Koyambedu Bus Stand is also a spectacular option as there is a 24/7 scene and is beyond just a transport hub. Many local pharmacies and tiny tea shops are open. Apart from this, Chennai also has cultural spaces like Kalakshetra and Music Academy, which host performances by Sabhas that go until midnight. These are a few places where the soul of Chennai resides and brightens at midnight and is different from typical nightlife venues. Making the Most of Chennai Nights If you ever thought

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Chennai: Savour the Authentic Culinary Experience in India

Chennai Nights, Where Flavours Never Sleep Hey there, food lover. We all know that Chennai is the bustling capital of Tamil Nadu, popular for its heritage, mind-boggling architecture, and vibrant coastal life. But are you aware that when the sun sets in Chennai and the city winds down, another life comes into action? It’s the thriving and sizzling street food, making Chennai one of the best culinary experiences in India. The streets of Chennai transform into bubbling eateries for food lovers and night owls, serving some of the mouth-watering and delicious late-night food. In this blog, we will explore and include the best street food that signifies Chennai’s unique blend of tradition and taste in one go. It is going to be a gastronomic tour through the city’s streets after dark. Table of Contents Alluring Late-Night Food in Chennai Street Food is more than just quick food. It speaks volumes about the city and its culinary heritage; and showcases the pride one has in their local food. The street food, the flavour, and the spices talk about its cultural worth and its people. Imagine these experiences being amplified at night. As the sun sets down and the city gets quieter, the vendors set up their stalls, and the aroma of sizzling spices and ingredients spreads far and wide. Street food is not only rich in its taste, but it also helps in combining and uniting communities together. It’s the excitement that binds them together. “‘Namma Chennai‘ – meaning ‘Our Chennai’ in Tamil – is how locals fondly refer to their city. Just as this intimate nickname suggests a special connection with the city, Chennai reveals its most intimate side when the sun sets and the daily commotion subsides. The inner streets of the city come alive with what locals and natives call “night kadai” (night shops) and “Thattukadai” (street-side eateries.), while Marina and Elliot’s Beach soften down. Chennai’s late-night food scene stretches from the breezy shores of Besant Nagar to the bustling IT corridor of OMR (Old Mahabalipuram Road), showcasing just how vast and varied the city’s nocturnal offerings are. While Besant Nagar draws beach lovers with its evening snacks, OMR comes alive with food trucks and late-night eateries catering to tech professionals working round the clock. From IT professionals to students at Loyola College, you’ll find everyone hanging around these spots. Food is not the only thing that attracts more crowds at night; it’s the authentic taste that is very hard to find in top-notch restaurants. Burma Bazaar’s Appetizing Atho Our first stop is at Burma Bazaar’s mouth-watering Atho. These are the Burmese-style noodles. You can easily get a taste of it in the lanes of Burma bazaar near Broadway. It is a must-try. A unique wooden tool is used to make these delicious noodles. It is made of mixed cabbage, noodles, and their secret “masala” (rumoured to contain 23 ingredients). Most of the time, the vendors are generally of Burmese origin, now fourth-generation Chennaittes. But I’d recommend vendors who add “podi masala” with extra garlic, as these are usually the most authentic spots. The aroma is enough to draw food lovers, and you know what is the amazing part? It’s not expensive, and you can enjoy it as much as you want. Location: Behind Broadway Bus Stand Timing: 8:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m. Price Range: Rs. 40-80/- Royapuram’s Seafood Heaven You must have eaten regular “parota”, but have you eaten what locals call “Prawn Row” in Royapuram? Era means prawns in Tamil and in Royapuram, fourth-generation fishermen-turned-chefs serve hot Era Masala with Veechu Parotta. These chefs catch fresh seafood the same evening to make fresh and tasty masala and a blend of spices that contains Madras Curry Powder, a spice mix from the colonial era that is still available in small shops in George Town. Location: Behind Kasimedu Fishing Harbor Timing: 11:00 p.m. – 4:00 a.m. Price Range: Rs. 80-200/- The Midnight Mushroom Phenomenon For many outsiders, it is Colan’s mushroom soup, but locals know better, and they call it the Kalaan Soup Kadai near Pallavan Salai. This hearty mushroom soup, enhanced with secret family-recipe podi (spice mix) and topped with crispy cornflakes, draws crowds from across the city between 11 PM and 2 AM. Location: Pallavan Salai Junction Timing: 11:00 p.m. – 3:00 a.m. Price Range: Rs. 60-100/- Japani Chicken Revolution It’s an ironic name, isn’t it? The Japanese chicken found its origins in SS Hyderabad Biryani near Kodambakkam High Road. This crunchy and sizzling street food is a pure Madras Local innovation and although natives call it Japani, it has nothing to do with Japan or its culinary style. The sauce isn’t just made of pepper but of Guntur chillies, which are locally harvested, and native chicken is used to maintain the authenticity If your spice tolerance is high, ask for their special Cheese Podi on top. Location: SS Hyderabad Biryani, Kodambakkam High Road Timing: 10:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m. Price Range: Rs. 120-180/- Late Night Adai Stops The authentic Adai are the 24/7 shops which can be found easily on the streets of Vadapalani and Porur. In both places, you’ll get Double Butter Adai, which is served with Paruppu Thogayal (lentil chutney). The place is usually popular among film industry workers who work late at night at nearby studios, and this specific delicacy for a portion of street food is a hunger saviour. Seeraga Samba is one of the varieties of authentic heritage rice which is used every evening to ground fresh batter. Location: Vadapalani and Porur Timing: 8:00 p.m. – 3:00 a.m. Price Range: Rs. 80-120/- Idiyappam Fusion at Kasimedu You must have heard about Nool Puttu (originated from the Tamil word, nool refers to string or thread). It is nothing but actually Idiyappam. You can devour this unique and aroma-filled street food at Kasimedu Fishing Harbor. The vendors at night serve it with Meen Curry (fish curry). It contains a yellow gravy, which is called Meen Kozhambu. It’s a turmeric-based sauce

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Healing Havens: Unveiling Ancient Tapestry of Traditional Medicine in India

Where Ancient Wisdom Meets Modern Wellness India is home to some of the world’s oldest and most revered traditional medicine systems. From the holistic approach of Ayurveda to the ancient healing practices of Siddha and Unani, this incredible nation is a treasure trove of ancient wisdom and natural remedies. Get ready to embark on a captivating journey through the healing havens aka the path of traditional medicine in India, where every herb, every practice, and every tradition holds the key to unlocking the secrets of holistic well-being. Table of Contents A Walk-Through India’s Medicinal Trail Ayurveda – The Science of Life Welcome to the ancient science of Ayurveda, a system of medicine practised in India for over 5,000 years. In this blog, you will find the intricate knowledge of herbs, spices, and natural remedies that form the foundation of this age-old tradition. We live in a world where wellness is not just a fleeting pursuit, but a way of life deeply rooted in the harmony of mind, body, and spirit. Ayurveda provides a path to achieve all three, with the fascinating concept of “tridosha“. It’s the three doshas—vata, pitta, and kapha—that govern our physical and mental well-being with Ayurvedic practices aiming to restore balance and harmony within the body. Siddha: The Mystic Healing Tradition The southern realms of India boast of Siddha. It’s an ancient system of medicine that was practised in this region for centuries. Siddha is a mystical blend of physical, psychological, and spiritual healing techniques that form the cornerstone of this tradition. From the use of herbal concoctions and mineral remedies to the practice of yoga and meditation, this system offers a holistic approach to well-being. Not only is this ancient tradition rooted in the principles of balance and harmony, but it also holds deep spiritual significance with many Siddha practitioners believed to have attained supernatural powers through their mastery of this healing art. Even though many individuals link traditional Indian medicine with herbs, there is an ancient technique known as “Bhasma Aushadhi” that utilizes purified metals and minerals. In Tamil Nadu, Siddha practitioners continue to possess the expertise in transforming gold, silver, and mercury into healing forms using an intricate 18-step purification technique known as “Shodana.” A very uncommon preparation, known as “Swarna Bhasma” (purified gold), was exclusively used by royalty due to its remarkable strength. Recent research revealed that these metal-based remedies include nanoparticles, demonstrating that ancient healers were far ahead of modern nanotechnology. Unani – The Healing Wisdom of the Greeks The rich tapestry of Unani medicine traces its roots back to the ancient Greek philosophies of Hippocrates and Galen. Natural remedies, herbal formulations, and dietary practices are the prominent factors that form the foundation of this tradition. Unani medicine offers a holistic approach to healing, emphasizing not only treatment but also preventive measures, a balanced lifestyle, and the use of natural substances to support optimal health. The Healing Power of Herbs and Spices No exploration of India’s traditional medicine systems would be complete without delving into the aromatic world of herbs and spices. The incredible healing properties of plants like turmeric, Ashwagandha, and Amla, have been revered in traditional medicine for centuries. Traditional healers knew a lot about using plants and natural items to help sick people. They learned and practised these skills from their gurus for years and when it was time, passed it on to their family’s descendants. Even today, some of these old methods help us make modern medicines. Embracing the Holistic Approach As you delve deeper into the history of traditional medicine in India, you’ll be struck by the profound wisdom and holistic approach that underpin each tradition. From the emphasis on balance and harmony to the integration of physical, mental, and spiritual well-being, these ancient practices offer a comprehensive approach to wellness that is often lacking in modern medicine. Technology’s Modern Approach In this current digital scenario with its dynamic developments and inventions, machine learning and artificial intelligence have proved to be handy as they help in the analysis of hundreds and thousands of ancient medical texts and manuscripts. These technological innovations decode complex and dynamic herbal formulations, which identify potential drug candidates from traditional remedies. The emergence of ancient wisdom with modern technology has opened new frontiers in drug discovery and therapeutic applications, as these technologies are now being used to standardize herbal preparations. These ensure consistency and quality altogether in traditional medicine practices. Quality Control and Standardization The establishment of quality control standards and certification processes are considered as one of the most significant developments in traditional medicine in India. To effectively identify and qualify active compounds in herbal preparations, which eventually leads to better and more advanced standardization and quality assurance, advanced analytical techniques are being used. GMP, or Good Manufacturing practices, are implemented in the production of traditional medicines, which will ensure safety and efficacy. Modern Scientific Validation The blending of traditional medicine in India with modern healthcare has caused a revival in medicinal research. Well-known institutions worldwide are conducting extensive research to verify traditional methods with modern scientific tools. Recent research carried out at respected universities has demonstrated the efficacy of Ayurvedic plants such as Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) in improving memory and cognitive abilities. Combining traditional formulations with standard treatments for chronic conditions like diabetes and arthritis has shown positive results in clinical trials. Global Recognition and Integration In recognition of the important role that the systems of traditional medicine in India plays in world healthcare; the World Health Organization has developed a Traditional Medicine Strategy. Ayurvedic and other traditional Indian treatments have been incorporated into alternative medicine programs in nations including the US, Germany, and Switzerland. As a result of this expanding global acceptance, dedicated research centres and clinical facilities have been established all over the world, promoting innovation and cross-cultural medical interchange. Preserving the Legacy of Healing The systems of traditional medicine in India are not just relics of the past; they are living embodiments of a rich legacy

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The Bumper Bowls – # Part 12, Nourishing Buddha Bowl For A Wholesome Eating Experience

Creating healthy bowls is an art that encompasses taste, nourishment, freshness, and creativity in your diet. With vibrant ingredients, you can make a tasty treat. A combination of wholesome grains, fresh and juicy vegetables, and an appropriate portion of proteins and fats can make the healthiest grain bowl. You can enhance the flavour with delicious sauces and dressings and enjoy the taste in every bite.  Buddha Bowl – For A Healthy Healing Experience A Buddha bowl, a vegetarian delight, is a nutritional powerhouse that provides all the healthy ingredients in the right proportions, offering a balanced and satisfying meal. Follow these simple steps to create the healthiest Buddha bowl. It’s easier than you think!  Don’t hesitate to get creative with your Buddha bowl! You can go vegan by replacing paneer with tofu and adding nut butter to the mix. The possibilities are endless! You can try out these easy sauces for healthy bowl dressing. Creamy Avocado Dressing  Avocados make a perfect blend for salads and bowls, providing a creamy texture.  Avocado – 1 Big and ripened Peppercorns – ¼ spoon Chilli- 1 Lime juice – 2 tsp Olive oil Chopped coriander leaves Salt to taste Blend the scooped avocado with all the above ingredients until you get a creamy paste. Chill and use the creamy sauce to top your bowls.  Chipotle Sauce  Chipotle sauce, or dried jalapeno, is popular in salads and healthy bowl recipes.  Ingredients  Canned Chipotle peppers  Greek yoghurt – ½ cup Garlic pods – 2 or 3 Coriander leaves  Cumin powder – ½ tsp Salt to taste Olive oil- 1 tsp Mayonnaise – ¼ cup Gather all ingredients in the blender and blend until you get a smooth, cream-like consistency. Enjoy your bowl with spicy chipotle sauce! 1Share

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Splash of Surprising Summer Delights – # Part 11, Kid-Friendly Summer Drink Recipes

Summer season is the ideal time to explore unique and exciting drinks that keep you hydrated and cool. While classic fruit punches and cool lemonades are always a hit, why not add excitement to your summer drink fiesta with innovative and kid-friendly recipes? This article is your guide to a collection of surprising and delightful summer drink recipes that promise to make lazy summer afternoons a lot more fun.  Honeydew Mint Magic  For a refreshing and tangy treat, blend chopped honeydew melon, lemon juice, mint leaves, and fresh honey with some water. Strain if needed, and add ice cubes to the juice. That’s it! You’re ready to experience the magic of this easy-to-make Honeydew Mint drink that will instantly cool you down! Grape Sarsaparilla Soda You need a bowl of fresh, cleaned black seedless grapes and sarsaparilla syrup for this. Boil the black grapes with a bit of water until they become soft. Once they cool, blend the grapes and strain the extract. Add three to five spoons of sarsaparilla syrup [or substitute with your favourite fruit syrup] and the required sugar. Blend well once again. Finally, add soda and chill the grape soda with ice cubes. Enjoy the distinctive taste of grape soda.  Coconut, Pineapple And Basil Smoothie Take a glass of fresh coconut milk and a bowl of pineapple chunks. Add some fresh [sweet basil or Thai basil] leaves to enhance the flavour. Add sugar as required. Blend thoroughly and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or flavoured yoghurt for a creamy texture.  Cucumber And Mint Lemonade Blend fresh cucumber, mint leaves, lime juice, and water in a blender. Strain and remove the residue, and keep the juice in the refrigerator for cooling. After some time, add a spoonful of chia seeds [for added fibre and texture] and crushed ice cubes before serving.  Tropical Fruit Cocktail Blend pieces of mango, pineapple, and coconut milk with a handful of spinach leaves for extra nutrition. Refrigerate it before serving.  Watermelon Mint Coolant Blend mint leaves and watermelon chunks together and strain to take the juice. Add a pinch of salt and lemon juice to the watermelon mixture. Add chia seeds for an extra cooling effect. Enjoy with crushed ice cubes.  Ginger Buttermilk Drink Take thin and freshly prepared buttermilk, pieces of ginger, salt and a few lemon leaves in a blender and blend together. Drain the drink to remove residues. Keep the drink in the refrigerator. Enjoy the mildly spicy and salty buttermilk with a tangy twist.   1Share

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The Leafy Elegance- # Part 10, Leaves As Sustainable Food Wrapping Materials

Leaves are the oldest serving plates used before metal utensils and a gateway to a heightened sensory experience. Whether they are robust banana leaves, humble corn husks, or dried teak leaves, each type of leaf is unique when used as a serving plate or wrapping material for food. They bring distinctive culinary traditions to the dining table, infusing the air with their natural fragrance and enhancing the taste and texture of food.   They are readily available, free from harmful chemicals, and naturally biodegradable. Beyond their environmental benefits, these practices hold cultural significance, lending a unique aesthetic appeal to food items. But it doesn’t stop there. The future of the food industry has even more promise, with innovative culinary practices and sustainable packaging design.  Banana Leaves Food wrapped in banana leaves is a nostalgia for many. The aromatic taste and enhanced flavour make every food enthusiast crave more. In tropical regions, banana leaves are used as food packing or serving materials due to their ready availability and antibacterial properties. In southern India, Sri Lanka, Africa, the Philippines, etc., banana leaves are used as packing materials for various dishes, including steamed fish, rice cakes, and grilled meats, adding a unique touch to these cuisines.  Lotus Leaves Chinese food is wrapped in lotus leaves while being cooked. The leaves impart a fragrance to the cooked food and retain moisture.  Corn Husks Tamales, the famous Mexican delicacy, are cooked in corn husks. In many Latin American cuisines, corn husks are used as food wrapping material as they retain moisture and impart a distinctive flavour to the food.  Sakura Leaves Sakura mochi is a Japanese rice cake with an earthy, sweet taste. Salted and dried sakura leaves are used to wrap the rice cake, which can be stored or reheated to balance the sweetness.  Palm Leaves Palm leaves are utilised for food packing in regions with abundant palm trees, such as parts of Africa, Southeast Asia, and South America. They often line baskets or trays to serve food, providing a natural and decorative touch. Turmeric Leaves Turmeric leaves are widely used as aromatic agents or taste enhancers in various dishes. The most exciting use of turmeric leaves is as a wrapper for certain steamed dishes. Patholi, a Goan delicacy, is a perfect example. Dishes steamed with turmeric leaves enhance the taste to the next level.  Bamboo Leaves Bamboo leaves are commonly used in Japan and Korea to wrap rice dumplings. This traditional practice is associated with the Dragon Boat Festival and Korean Thanksgiving.  Fig Leaves The mild and naturally sweet flavour of fig leaves increases the taste of food when it is wrapped or preserved using fig leaves. Especially in Mediterranean cuisine, fig leaves are used to preserve olives and cheese.  Using leaves as food packaging showcases a harmonious fusion of tradition, sustainability, and practicality.   This fosters creativity and culinary diversity and contributes to a more sustainable food industry, inspiring a greener and delicious future.  1Share

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Destination Dining Trends – #Part 9, Explore These Unique Destination Dining Spaces In India

A memory-filled culinary adventure is a dream of every food enthusiast. Travelling to different places, enjoying the food, and understanding the culture and food diplomacy are distinctive experiences we get from destination dining. Destination dining is more than just satisfying hunger; it’s about indulging your senses, connecting with local traditions, and creating unforgettable memories.   India boasts a vibrant culinary scene with diverse flavours, ingredients, and regional cuisines. We have some unique destination dining spaces offering exceptional dining experiences.  Wasabi by Morimoto – For international cuisines Would you like to try Japan’s most traditional dishes, such as Sushi and Sashimi? Renowned Japanese chef Masaharu Morimoto’s popular recipes are the main attraction at Hotel Wasabi by Morimoto, a unique Japanese restaurant in Mumbai. Chef Morimoto, known for his innovative and artistic approach to Japanese cuisine, crafts each dish with the finest ingredients, ensuring a culinary experience like no other. Indian Accent – A Blend Of Tradition And Modernity  Step into a world of culinary artistry at Indian Accent, a sophisticated restaurant in New Delhi. The menu is a mix of traditional Indian dishes and international flavours, all crafted with the finest ingredients. Each course is a masterpiece, beautifully presented and paired with selected wines from around the world.   Karavalli – Unlimited Coastal Experience Those who want to indulge in Indian coastal delicacies can visit Bangalore’s Karavalli, located at the Gateway Hotel. The hotel’s attractive ambience celebrates coastal cuisine from different parts of India, including Kerala, Karnataka, Goa, and Mangalore. With recipes passed down through generations, it creates a truly authentic and cultural dining experience.  Dakshin – For Traditional Food Lovers Are you a fan of traditional food items? Dakshin, located at the Crowne Plaza Chennai Adyar Park, is renowned for its authentic South Indian cuisine. The restaurant features specialities from Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka, offering a mouthwatering spread of dosas, appams, seafood curries, and traditional desserts. Kewpie’s Kitchen- Authentic Kolkata Cuisine  ‘The food at Kewpie’s Kitchen took me back to my childhood. It was like eating at my grandmother’s house.’ The visitors shared their experiences when they visited Kewpie’s kitchen in Kolkata. Kolkata’s Elgin Road is a quiet place where the Kewpie’s kitchen is located. This Bengali restaurant in Kolkata is famous for all types of Bengali dishes, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian. The restaurant is well-known among visitors for its homely ambience. Run by a Bengali family, the place offers authentic Bengali dishes prepared with traditional and local ingredients. The menu includes old-age recipes from Grandma’s kitchen. This restaurant also sets an excellent example by using eco-friendly materials such as terracotta plates, utensils, and banana leaves for cooking and serving.  1Share

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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.  1Share

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