Simply Southern

The annual Kerala Food Festival scored a hit once again!

What’s a favourite with the Punjabi palate after Tandoori delectables and Chinese fare? It’s for sure south Indian cuisine. There’s something about those fluffy idlis and crisp dosas that get foodies in the region to get indulgent. Each year,the Malayalee Samajam in Mohali offers a sumptuous spread for all those who relish South Indian fare. This year’s annual soiree,held at the Kerala Bhawan in Phase XI,ran to a full house as always with the community,dressed in their Sunday best,opening their hearts out to all those who came. “All these years we have seen tremendous response from the tricity and helps us organise it each year,” mentioned a Malayalee Samajam member as we noticed the steady stream of visitors at the venue. The festival has for many years now brought the various Malayalee families living in the region on a common platform and has also offered a close insight into the culture of Kerala. “It’s an annual treat that we look forward to,” mentioned Dr Gurpreet Sidhu who came in with her family from Phase 3B2 in Mohali and made the most of the appams made fresh for everyone.

Also relishing the lip-smacking and authentic fare were Reena Bakshi along with her better half Narendra Bakshi. “We missed out on the festival last year and were keen on sampling the delicious South Indian food this time around,” remarked the couple sharing a vada for starters. Interestingly,it’s the menu that brings in traditional cuisine that makes the food festival such a winner. “Restaurants only offer idli,dosas with some variations. Here one can choose from a variety,” pointed out another Malayalee Samajam official as we eyed a menu replete with specials like Kappa fish curry,Pottukadal,Iddiyappam,Palappam and more. There was also a special counter demonstrating the use of special ingredients and for those who like the traditional snacks and savouries like Banana chips and mudkus,a stall was dishing them out too. A treat indeed!