You must have heard a lot about Chettinad Cuisine and how it delivers devilishly delicious flavours in its dishes. The food preparations which have their roots in Tamil Nadu are widely cherished, leaving many to wonder about its backstory.
Let‘s dive deep into the source of the Chettinad flavour which is incredibly unique and has an extensive fan base.
Origin of Chettinad Cuisine
Chettinad cuisine originates from the Chettinad region of Tamil Nadu which is primarily dominated by the Chettiar community and is the staple of the same.
Though Chettinad delicacies are both vegetarian and non-vegetarian, you would find Chettinad cuisine to primarily have a large spread of vegetarian preparations as these are prepared by the community of Tamil Brahmins, most of whom practice vegetarianism.
That's all the more reason why they have explored and experimented with vegetables and have extensive vegetarian platters.
Chettinad dishes include a rich, exotic blend of aromatic spices such as cumin, fenugreek, fennel, clove, bay leaf, turmeric, tamarind and more. These are freshly ground to render the complexity of flavours we experience in every mouthful.
What Sets Chettinad Cuisine Apart?
The whole Chettinad region is popular for its distinct culinary mastery and the unique platter that it serves in the community which is a must in marriage ceremonies, political functions and other events of significance and is often cooked in bulk to feed the masses in such gatherings.
Preparing the Chettinad delicacies such as Idiyappam, Meen Kuzhambu, Nariyal & Soya Paneer Vada, Chicken Chettinad and more require a certain level of culinary skill.
However, those wanting the authentic taste in their Chettinad servings can take the easy, hassle-free way and cook these dishes using ready-to-cook Chettinad Masala Paste.
When it comes to Chettinad cuisine, we wonder what gives it an edge over others. The following elements have been found to be the reason for the distinction that has been awarded to Chettinad dishes among the diversity of delicacies prepared worldwide:
- Its Flavoursome Medley of Spices
The traditional Chettinad dishes are renowned for the abundant utilisation of spices such as star anise, fenugreek, whole red chillies, fennel seeds, peppercorn, cumin seeds and more.
These are spice rich and get their flavoursome taste from secret ingredients such as dried flower pods and kalpasi (black stone flower) and make absolutely luscious servings.
- The Use of Sun-Dried Ingredients
Chettiars make profuse use of a variety of sun-dried meats & salted vegetables, giving these dishes a satisfying taste but also helps them retain nutrients.
The use of these ingredients also points toward the regional dry climate that is generally experienced by Tamil Nadu.
- Remarkable Pairings In The Servings
Chettinad dishes are generally served with rice-based accompaniments such as dosas, appams, idiyappam, idlis and more which, being mild in taste, render a good balance to the spiciness of this cuisine.
A variety of pickles, papads and salads are also relished with the Chettinad servings which make the meal feel complete with their diversity of flavours.
