Published 13:23 IST, October 22nd 2019
Tamil Nadu: Three must-try dishes from Tamil Nadu, the temple state
Tamil Nadu is rich in culture and beauty. The food here is mostly based on rice. Here are three dishes of Tamil Nadu that you need to try whenever you visit.
The South Indian State of Tamil Nadu is known for its rich heritage and culture; coupled with this, it also has some incredibly popular dishes like idli, sambar, and dosa. Every cuisine in the country is known for a few elements that must not be missed. Tamil Nadu can offer you scrumptious cuisine, especially in the vegetarian section. Here are three mouth-watering dishes that you need to try in case you are visiting the glorious state.
Three popular dishes from Tamil Nadu
1. Rasam
Rasam is a famous dish from South India. It is essentially a soup-like liquid that can be consumed with multiple dishes. However, its taste is best enjoyed as a soup and not as a side dish. Rasam is generally spicy and full of coriander leaves. It is loaded with pepper and garlic and generally good for digestion. It is rich in flavour and is considered a magic potion to get rid of cold and cough. Rasam from Tamil Nadu is a must-try for everyone visiting the place.
2. Sakkarai Pongal
Sakkarai Pongal is a sweet dish that is made as a staple meal during the harvest festival called Pongal. The sweet dish is made out of boiled rice and is topped with nuts and dry fruits. Ingredients like cardamom and green gram are used in the preparation of the dish as well. Pongal is generally made in the open in a clay pot. This is a ritual dedicated to the Sun God. They believe that the harvest will grow well the following year. It is served on traditional banana plantain leaves. Pongal is a must-try for anyone who is in the state even for a day.
3. Puliyodharai
Puliyodharai is another rice dish from Tamil Nadu. The main ingredient of this dish is tamarind. In some cities, the dish is also known as tamarind rice. A tadka is added towards the end, which is a combination of mustard, curry leaves, and dried red chillies. This tadka is what gives the sour dish a dash of spice. Puliyodharai is literally translated as ‘the sour dish.’ The rice is served alongside curd on a fresh banana leaf. If you are visiting Tamil Nadu, make it a point to try this dish.
Updated 14:05 IST, October 22nd 2019