8 Chettinad Dishes That Are Perfect For Dinners

By Ujjainee Roy

January 29, 2024

Chettinad cuisine, originating from Tamil Nadu known for its rich and aromatic flavours. The cuisine is characterized by the use of bold spices, distinctive masalas, and a variety of ingredients that create an amazing profile. If you're looking for delicious and hearty Chettinad meals suitable for dinners, here are some great options:

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Chettinad Chicken

A quintessential Chettinad dish, the chicken curry  combines tender chicken pieces with a rich blend of Chettinad spices. The use of fennel seeds, poppy seeds, and curry leaves imparts a unique taste to the curry. 

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Chettinad Fish Curry

For seafood lovers, Chettinad fish curry is an amazing option. The curry is prepared with a tangy tamarind base and an array of spices, including mustard seeds and fenugreek seeds.

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Samba Biryani

Samba rice, also known as seeraga samba rice, is a short-grain aromatic rice variety that is commonly used in Chettinad Biryani. This rice soaks up the meat stock faster; this biryani also typically uses coconut milk.

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Vendakkai Puli Kuzhambu

This tangy and spicy tamarind-based curry usually has a coconut base which gives this curry a rich and satisfying taste. Pair it with steamed rice or dosa for a comforting dinner.

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Chettinad Egg Curry

Egg curry in Chettinad style is a delightful dish where boiled eggs are cooked in a spicy and aromatic gravy. The unique Chettinad spice blend, along with the addition of coconut, elevates the flavours of this egg curry. 

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Kothu Parotta

Kothu Parotta is a popular street food in Tamil Nadu. In Chettinad style, shredded parottas are stir-fried with a flavourful mix of spices, vegetables, and sometimes minced meat. 

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Chettinad Village-Style Mutton

This curry uses tender mutton pieces. The slow-cooking process allows the spices to infuse into the meat, creating a delicious and aromatic curry. Serve it with rice or Chettinad parotta for a fulfilling dinner.

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Chettinad Mushroom Masala

For a vegetarian option, Chettinad Mushroom Masala can be a great choice. Mushrooms are cooked in a spicy and flavourful masala that includes a variety of spices like peppercorns, fennel seeds, and cinnamon. 

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