Exploring Andaman and Nicobar's culinary and cultural journey

The food culture of Andaman and Nicobar Islands is rejuvenating and heavily dependent on the sea. Seafood preparations majorly dominate the culinary scene and fruits also make a popular part of the menu. One of the popular dishes one can try at the place is curried prawns, which are made from prawns caught fresh from the Bay of Bengal.

Here is the food and culture of Andaman and Nicobar

Fish curry

Andaman and Nicobar fish curry, a traditional dish of the islands that is enjoyed by the locals and visitors alike. It is prepared with fresh fish, which is typically marinated in a blend of spices and then cooked in a gravy made from coconut milk and tamarind.

Coconut prawn curry

Coconut Prawn Curry, a famous dish from the islands that can bring together the flavors of fresh prawns, coconut milk, and spices. This creamy curry is a staple in the region and is often served with steamed rice.

Chilli curry

Another delicious dish, is really a classic food in the Andaman Islands. This meal is a hot and happening meal, full of onion, tomatoes and also stuffed with rich flavors in it.

Grilled lobsters

Grilled lobster, another delicious seafood variant in Andaman. Butter, parsley, chili flakes, cloves are the main ingredients of Grilled Lobster. The taste of this grilled lobster has no match with the seafood of Andaman

The tribes of the Andaman Islands celebrate various festivals throughout the year, often involving music, dance, and feasting. Important festivals include the Ossuary Feast, Pig Festival, and Harvest Festival.

Ossuary Feast

The most important festival celebrated by the Nicobarese tribe is the Ossuary Feast also known as pig festival. At this feast, the members of the family pay homage to the soul of the departed head of the family. On this occasion, the Nicobarese folk dance is organized, and all invitees take part in the dance. It is an occasion where the people from different villages assemble at the village of hosting Tuhet to meet each other, and to remember their ancestors by singing and dancing throughout the night. The dance is performed in a circular formation. Both men and women join in the dance but in separate groups.

Subhash Mela

a festival that is celebrated in Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the memory of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose. This festival is celebrated on January 23 to commemorate Bose's birthday and includes various cultural events, exhibitions, and sports activities.

Harvest Festival

Vasant Panchami, a festival that marks the beginning of the preliminary preparations before the onset of the spring (Basant) season. It also marks the beginning of the preparation of Holika and Holi. The festival celebrates the harvests of agricultural fields of mustard crops.