Nestled in the southern region of Karnataka, Coorg is quaint little town best known as the Scotland of India amongst tourists. This tranquil little hill-station is famous for its picturesque natural beauty that is adorned with waterfalls, lush forests and wildlife. The rich heritage that Coorg holds has also made it a renowned tourist spot. Coorg or Kodagu District is a rural town located in the state of Karnataka. They are known for their rich culture and traditions. The Kodava people pride themselves on their unmatched culinary skills. Kodavas are an indigenous race of people known for their sociability and fortitude. They form the main community of people residing in Coorg. The lifestyle and cuisine of the Kodagu community is something unique to find. It’s quite easy to book a taxi from Bangalore to Coorg and enjoy the serenity of this scenic little town.
The rich Kodava cuisine is a unique blend of spices and preparation methods that bring forth some delightful and mouth-watering delicacies. Most common spices used are Bird’s Eye Chilli, Black Peppers and balsamic vinegar Kachampuli. The top 5 subtleties from Coorg are Kadambattu, Bamboo Shoot Curry, Pandi Curry, Akki Roti, Koli Curry or Chicken curry.
The Kodava Cuisine is highly influenced by the customs, culture and history of the Kodava community. For instance, rice is abundantly grown in Coorg. Hence, rice in many varieties like Akki Rotti, Nool Puttu, Puttu is consumed. To complete these sumptuous meals, try the famous Coorg honey and the various curries such as pumpkin curry, bamboo shoot curry, or mushrooms curry.
Kodava cuisine has both vegetarian and non-vegetarian delicacies primarily chicken, mutton and pork. Coconut is a standard ingredient in most of the spicy, aromatic Coorg curries. Pickles and chutneys are also a vital part of their cuisine. The localities consume chutneys made from dried fish and pickles made from unique ingredients such as bamboo, gooseberries, and mushrooms. Mango chutney also known as Mangye Pajji and Mudrakani made from Bengal-gram are some additional vegetarian options.
Pandi Curry and Kadumbuttu is a local dish that is prepared using pork curry and steamed rice balls. Kummu Curry is a special dish made with mushroom and spices. Akki Roti is an incredibly filling bread made of rice flour. Treating your taste buds to a plethora of flavours and follow it up with a refreshing glass of buttermilk. After your meal, whether you want to go the typical black Coffee with palm jaggery or passion fruit juice, both these drinks will surely satiate all your thirst.
The lifestyle of Kodava community is quite different from their neighbouring towns. The men wear red coloured robes with a red sash tied at the waist. They carry a small word tucked into the sash. The women tie their saree with the pleats at the rear and the pallu taken below the left arm and over the right shoulder where it is attached with a brooch. Mean wear gold and white turbans while the women wear silk scarves to frame their faces.
When it comes to reaching Coorg, travelling here is quite easy. Considering that Bangalore to Coorg distance is quite short, people from Bangalore usually take weekend trips to this hill station to enjoy the peace and beauty of nature. Apart from the various tourist spots that are present in Coorg, like the Abbey Falls, the Talacauvery Temple and Madikeri, trying the local cuisine is a must when one visits Coorg. Enjoy a long drive in the picturesque surroundings, traverse and explore this delicious cuisine in Coorg. Revel in the exotic flavours presented in this unique Kodava cuisine and taste the real flavour of Coorg.
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