In the picturesque district of Kannur, where tea time is a cherished ritual, the connoisseurs of evening tea indulge in an array of delectable choices to accompany their steaming cups. From traditional favourites like kannurappam, unniyappam, kinnathappam, kalathappam, karayappam, to an assortment of other tempting delights, the culinary scene in Kannur boasts a rich tapestry of locally-made snacks that tantalise the taste buds and leave a lasting impression on one's palate.
Recognising the cultural significance and gastronomic charm of these indigenous snacks, the district panchayat has taken a visionary step to celebrate and promote the culinary heritage of Kannur. With a dedicated initiative backed by an estimated budget of Rs 20 lakh, the project endeavours to elevate the local snacks of Kannur to the esteemed status of 'Kannur brand snacks and sweets,' turning its villages into veritable destinations for Kerala's favourite tea-time indulgences.
At the heart of this endeavour lie the quaint panchayats of Kannapuram and New Mahi, where the art of crafting these mouthwatering delicacies has been passed down through generations, flourishing as a cottage industry for decades. Steeped in tradition, the local people meticulously prepare these savoury and sweet treats upon order, supplying them to bakeries and eateries, ensuring a seamless connection between the creators and the eager consumers.
A central goal of this pioneering project is to empower the individuals involved in the snack-making industry by ensuring stable and respectable incomes. By positioning these local snacks as cherished 'Kannur brand snacks and sweets,' the district panchayat seeks to create a sustainable economic ecosystem that supports the livelihoods of those dedicated to the culinary craft.
However, amid the endeavour to preserve and popularise these age-old delicacies, the project faces the challenge of sourcing experienced cooks with a deep understanding of the intricacies and nuances required to prepare these unique snacks. From the art of crafting the perfect nurukku and mixture to the finesse of shaping rice balls and thariyunda, not to mention the expertise in preparing the mouthwatering muttappam and a tantalising array of oil-fried snacks, the district panchayat aspires to inspire and encourage more aspiring cooks to embrace this revered profession.
As the sun sets over the verdant landscape of Kannur and the aroma of freshly brewed tea mingles with the scent of the region's iconic snacks, the district panchayat's ambitious initiative stands as a testament to the preservation of cultural heritage and culinary artistry. Through this noble endeavour, the humble villages of Kannapuram and New Mahi are poised to emerge as epicentres of gastronomic delights, beckoning tea enthusiasts and connoisseurs from near and far to savour the rich flavours and unparalleled charm of Kannur's beloved snacks.
The Manthoppu Project
Apart from promoting and preserving its classic snacks, Kannur is taking great strides in promoting its famous Kunjyagalam mangoes. In a celebration of both the unique flavour and rich cultural heritage that define the 'Kunjyagalam mangoes,' a visionary project named 'Ormakalude manthoppu' (the mango orchard of memories) has taken root in the verdant landscapes of Nadakavu, nestled within the enchanting Thrikaripur panchayat in Kannur.
The project's inception was marked on the auspicious occasion of July 22, World Mango Day, in a symbolic tribute to the beloved mango species that has captured the hearts and palates of many. Conceived through a collaborative effort between the Post Graduate Section of the esteemed Botany department at Payyannur College and the esteemed Kanjyangalam mango unit, 'Ormakalude manthoppu' seeks to perpetuate the legacy of the cherished 'Kuniyagalam' mango variety, a gem uniquely associated with the quaint village of Kunjimangalam.
Embodying the spirit of preservation and homage to the region's mango heritage, small orchards adorned with the revered 'Kuniyagalam' and other distinct mango varieties will grace the public spaces of Kannur and Kasargod districts. These lush orchards serve as living memorials to the bountiful mango diversity that thrives within this captivating landscape, and they symbolise a collective endeavour to preserve the legacy of the region's mango legacy for generations to come.
Steeped in tradition, this verdant region is also renowned for nurturing a myriad of other captivating mango varieties that enchant locals and visitors alike. From the revered 'Vadakkedath Pancharamanga' and 'Pattarat Pancharamanga' to the exotic 'Thrikai Valia Kadukachi,' 'Thrikai Kunji Kadukachi,' 'Allakattu Bharanikadukachi,' 'Allakattu Manjen,' 'Madapura Puliyan,' 'Palakeel Puliyan,' 'Allakadan Kappakay,' 'Manjappanasan,' and 'Kuliyan mango,' each mango variety weaves a tale of unique flavours and cultural significance.
The 'Bombaykaran' variety of mango, in particular, has garnered considerable attention, further enhancing the allure of this mango haven. In a concerted effort to infuse the region's landscape with the essence of these treasured mango varieties, the visionary authorities endeavour to line the roadsides and village paths with a plethora of mango trees, transforming the surroundings into an enchanting mosaic of mango orchards.
As the project 'Ormakalude Manthoppu blossoms, it becomes a manifestation of passion and dedication to preserving the precious heritage of Kunjimangalam mangoes and their captivating counterparts. This heartwarming endeavour not only celebrates the cherished mango species but also fosters a sense of community pride and commitment to preserving the culinary and cultural legacies that have flourished within the captivating landscapes of the Kannur and Kasargod districts.