Explore and Enjoy The Cultural Treasures of Chettinad Cuisine

Chettinad cuisine originates from the Chettinad region in the Sivagangai district of the state of Tamil Nadu in South India. This cuisine is one of the most renowned in South Indian food and has a rich history. Traditionally, the Chettiars traded salt and spices that added a rich flavor to the food. It is a community that lives in villages that are found deep inland, away from the oceans, yet their cuisine offers up some unique seafood recipes. This is due to the common international travels and trade in this community. Several people in this community emigrated to Ceylon and Burma in the 19th and 20th centuries. As they’re traders who travel the world, their palate does as well. 

The unbeatable flavour of Chettinad cuisine

Chettinad cuisine has important global influences in its recipes, ingredients, and even its cooking methods. This cultural treasure of South Indian food uses kalpasi (black stone flower) and dried flower pods. Kalpasi is used in non-vegetarian dishes as well as vegetarian delicacies. The rich gravy can be attributed to the addition of coconut, garlic, tomatoes, and ginger. The spices are traditionally grounded with a grinding stone.

The nuances of the cuisine

• The cuisine has a high nutritional value as it uses sun-dried vegetables that supplement the nutrients present in the vegetables. Some popular dishes in Chettinad cuisine include Chicken Chettinad, Chettinad Egg Masala, Vanjaram Meen Curry, and many more. Chicken Chettinad is one of the most popular dishes from the South Indian region. 
• This curry is prepared with freshly ground coconut and several spices, including peppercorn, cinnamon, fenugreek, and whole red chilis. All the dishes are served on banana leaves with pickles, salads, papads, and buttermilk, and a specific protocol is followed regarding the space in which the dish should be served.
• The women, called aachis, prepared meals for the household by grinding spices in stone grinders, chopping vegetables with the aruamanai (iron blade), and burning different firewood for specific flavours. 
• At the lavish Chettiar wedding feasts, the samayalkar (team of cooks) would, under the guidance of senior aachis, prepare six main course grain dishes, nine savory side dishes, and six types of sweets.

Sangam Chettinad Indian Cuisine provides an authentic South Indian experience for Dosa Austin, Texas. From traditional dosas to intricate Chettinad cuisines, it is the finest destination for anyone who wishes to explore and experience the culinary treasures of Chettinad Cuisine. Visit today to experience the best of South Indian food!