When you consider Chikmagalur, the first thing that comes to your mind is the breathtaking views and the activities one can partake in. Similarly, Chikmagalur is also renowned for its local treats and chefs.
Malnad food, which is one of the oldest living cuisines in the state, is the local specialty here. Malnad food or cuisines primarily comprise vegetarian dishes. The pure and fresh Malnad organic foods can not only satiate your hunger but also nourish your soul.
Karnataka’s Malnad area is situated on the Western Ghats’ western and eastern slopes, and it is known for its coffee plantations. Malnad coffee has got a legendary reputation for being one of the best filter coffees adorning South India. The process of making this filter coffee is different and that is why it is considered special.
Pathrode is one of the most famous and usual foods of Malnad. Its other name is Patravadi and its main components are colocasia leaves which locals call pathrode leaves, rice, coconut paste, tamarind, and spices.
In the list of Malnad food specialties, the variety of jackfruit-based dishes is one of the contenders. Among them, Halasina Hannina Kadubu or Jackfruit Idli and Kayi Kadubu are the most well-known snacks. Both are steamed versions of sweets and have led to the development of many similar snacks across the state.
There are 2 more well-known jackfruit-based Malnad foods: Halasina Hannina Mulka or Jackfruit Fitters and Halasina Kayi Pappad or Jackfruit Papad. The jackfruit dishes were not just limited to sweet; they also had a savory aspect since there were many recipes that were used regularly. The dessert range is also huge when it comes to jackfruit.
Akki Rotti is undoubtedly one of the famous dishes in Karnataka State. The making process differs in several regions but this Malnad Akki Roti in particular is the most common and traveler’s favorite food here. The main things used in Akki Rotti are nearly the same as in neer dosa. The difference between them is only in the texture and the range of taste.
One more significant Malnad treat is Hesarubele carrot Kosambari or Mung dal carrot salad, respectively. The dish’s simplicity is its greatest asset. The main components of this salad are soaked raw green gram dal or mung dal and grated carrot.
Malnad style Huli Avalakki or Gojjavalakki is a delicious savory breakfast dish that has gained great popularity among the people of the region. Boiling salt, jaggery, and tamarind and then mixing them with roasted red chili, gram dal, and urad dal powder is a method that is supposed to cause a sensory explosion in your taste buds. The Huli Avalakki recipe has many different variations.
One of the special dishes of Malnad is Cheenikayi Kadubu or Pumpkin Idli as it’s also known. The dish, prepared from grated Pumpkin and Rice Rava, is usually served for breakfast on the very first day of the Diwali festival.
Going through Malnad foods you are likely to be presented with a new world of sensory experiences. The ingredient octet and the employment of fresh spices are the reasons for totally different culinary experience in Karnataka. Malnad cuisine also takes its inspiration from their culture and traditions and the food ingredients grown in the area.
The role of food is not just to satiate your hunger but also to delight your heart. And this specific cuisine is recognized for that quality. It gives the experience of being surrounded by and hugged with warmth and comfort. And that is what most Malnad cuisines are, comfort food for your soul.
