If you ever visit Tamil Nadu, don’t miss out on the western part of the Kongunadu region, where the second-largest city, Coimbatore, lies. Apart from being an industrial hub, the city is known for historical monuments, meditation centres, the Nilgiri mountain range, and a variety of South Indian foods.
Coimbatore has a rich culture and heritage, along with gastronomical interventions. The place is native to fresh turmeric, dried coconut, and local rice varieties. Coimbatore is renowned for traditional cooking methods that have been passed down to generations. The city emphasises a fine balance of tastes and local ingredients and this balance makes the food from Coimbatore a delightful and distinctive part of South Indian culinary heritage. Here is a list of six foods hailing from Coimbatore. Take a look:
- Nei Roast Dosa
Also known as ghee roast doa or nei roast dosa, this is a common breakfast dish hailing from Coimbatore. This dish is made from dosa batter and is cooked with an adequate amount of ghee on a hot tawa until it turns golden brown and crispy. The addition of ghee adds a delicious flavour to the dosa, which is quite famous among the locals and tourists. Nei roast dosa is often accompanied with coconut chutney and sambar.
- Kongunadu Biryani
This flavourful biryani originated in the Kongu region of Tamil Nadu, which includes Coimbatore. This biryani is known for its subtle yet aromatic flavours and is different from all those traditional biryanis found in different parts of India. It is made with short-grain rice, tender pieces of meat (usually chicken or mutton), and a blend of spices that includes cloves, cinnamon, and star anise. The outcome is delicious and reflects the culinary heritage of the region.
- Arisi Paruppu Sadam
This is a popular one-pot meal in Tamil homes. Arisi paruppu sadam combines rice and lentils, making it a staple of Coimbatore households. This dish is somewhat like khichdi, where rice and lentils are cooked together with spices like cumin, mustard seeds, and curry leaves. Serve this dish with a dollop of ghee that pairs well with spicy curries or tangy pickles. Arisi Paruppu is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it a popular lunch or dinner option.
- Murukku Sandwich
This is a unique food that has gained prominence on the streets of Coimbatore. It consists of crispy murukku sandwiched between slices of bread along with tangy chutney. The marriage of flavour and texture makes murukku sandwiches a quick street food grab. This snack is often enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee, especially on a rainy evening.
- Kollu Rasam
Kollu Rasam, or Horsegram Rasam, is a traditional soup from Coimbatore that is believed to have numerous health benefits. It is made from horsegram lentils, tomatoes, tamarind, and a whole lot of spices, including pepper, cumin, and coriander seeds. This is a spicy and tangy rasam that also aids in digestion and is immune-boosting. This comforting soup is consumed as it is or accompanied with rice.
- Palipalayam Chicken
Originating from a small town named Palipalayam in Coimbatore, this dish is known for its mouthwatering taste. First, the chicken pieces are marinated in a spicy masala made from freshly ground spices like black pepper, cumin, and fennel seeds. The chicken is then sautéed until thoroughly cooked, getting coated in the fragrant masala. This dish is best enjoyed with rice or roti.
- Elaneer Payasam
Every Coimbatore meal ends on a sweet note and nothing can be better than Elaneer Payasam. This is a creamy dessert made from tender coconut water, milk, jaggery, and a hint of cardamom. This refreshing treat is garnished with nuts and is usually served chilled.