Latest news with #Malayali
The Hindu
15 hours ago
- The Hindu
Coracle, at BIC Cafe, is an invitation to wholesome, homely Kerala cuisine
There are not too many home chefs who take the plunge into running a restaurant, but Tresa Francis does it with a subtle flair and understated elegance that is the hallmark of Coracle. Even many regulars to the Bangalore International Centre (BIC) may not be aware of its existence, tucked away in plain sight, away from the hustle and bustle of its many activities. Sliding doors open into a simple, yet tastefully designed dining area and a decently stocked bar. Coracle primarily serves Kerala cuisine with a few South Indian regional exceptions. And while there is no dearth of Malayali restaurants in the city, ranging from simple messes to ones helmed by star chefs, Coracle occupies a sweet spot where the food is homely and the experience is classy. Chef Tresa Francis, whose culinary influences come from north, central and south Kerala, says cooking has always been a part of her life for as long as she could remember. 'We were all involved in the prepartion of a meal, even as children. Whether it was helping pick produce or poultry, it was something we all did,' she says, adding that it was never seen as a grown-up's job. Kerala cuisine involves a rich balance of flavours and textures, courtesy the use of a range of tubers, lentils and gourds. And though most of these vegetarian delights are commonly seen at the grocer's, more often than not, only mushrooms, paneer, corn and peas make it on to the menu in most places. We begin our meal with yam fingers served with curry leaf aioli, and kappa (tapioca) kandhari sauce. For those not in the know, boiled tapioca served with a simple dipping sauce of coarsely pounded green chillies, shallots and coconut oil, is a staple in Kerala and can be eaten at any time of day. Both were simple and homely, and set the tone for the rest of our meal. Next up were the prawn fry, pork fry and beef cutlets, each vying for our attention. Both the prawn and pork fry were delicious, succulent and well flavoured, without an overpowering of spices. It was heartening to see the beef cutlets were of ample proportions, happily crisp on the outside and satisfactorily moist on the inside. Ullarthu is Malayalam for roast and we try both the chicken and beef ullarthu. The chicken is served on mini parottas, inviting you to pop them in your mouth and chew on their wholesomeness at one go. Now, beef ullarthu is a signature dish in the Kerala cuisine cookbook. Often accompanied by parotta or enjoyed by itself, this dish is found along the length and breadth of the state, at homes and hotels, and is as comforting as a bowl of dal-chaawal elsewhere. However, only a few places can elevate its delectability and Coracle is one of them. There is a quite a good reason why. While Tresa oversees everything at the kitchen, the beef ullarthu and prawn mango curry are two dishes she personally prepares apart from the fish curries. Traditionally, the meat is slow-cooked until tender and is flecked with coconut chips, gloriouslybrowned onions and dark green curry leaves. It disappears almost as soon as it make an appearance at our table. The prawn mango curry is a delicately flavoured gravy in a base of coconut milk and it pairs wonderfully with appams, rice and even parottas. It is a definitive must-have at Coracle, if you are a non-vegetarian, especially as the taste and recipe are quite unique. We end our meal with tender coconut pudding and caramel custard. Both choices are smooth and light on our stomachs that have been well-stuffed at this point. Coracle opens at lunchtime and serves meals as well as a few dishes from other regions such as neer dosa, kumbalkai palya, kori gassi and ghee roast from Mangalore, Tamil Nadu's railway mutton curry, Karnataka's hitkidbele gojju (dish of hyacinth beans). Since Tresa makes it a point to include seasonal vegetables in the menu, be prepared to try something new on your visit apart from her classics. But whatever you decide to indulge in, expect soul satisfying, delicious fare.
New Indian Express
21 hours ago
- Climate
- New Indian Express
Malayali man stranded on Mount Denali is safe
PATHANAMTHITTA: Sheikh Hassan Khan, a Malayali climber stranded on Mount Denali in North America due to an unexpected storm, is now safe and has begun his descent. Officials said that the Alaska Governor's Chief of Staff informed the Indian Ministry of External Affairs about his rescue. Rangers from Denali National Park are in constant contact with Khan and his companion, providing assistance.
The Hindu
a day ago
- Entertainment
- The Hindu
An initiative to bring French literature closer to Keralites
In a vibrant celebration of cultural and literary exchange, the French Institute in India and DC Books jointly launched the 'Pardon My French!' bookshelf at DC Books here on Thursday evening. The initiative aims at bringing French literature closer to Indian readers through curated translations and accessible editions. The launch featured a conversation between Shashi Tharoor, author and MP, and Thierry Mathou, Ambassador of France to India. The duo explored the rich tapestry of French and Indian literary traditions and the lasting influence of French story-telling on Indian readers. Cultural commonalities Dr. Tharoor highlighted the role of Victor Hugo in making French literature accessible in India. He emphasised the value of literary exchange in broadening perspectives and nurturing creativity. He also spoke about the cultural commonalities between India and France, particularly the value both societies placed on intellectual discussion and community forums. 'In India, we have traditions like the Malayali 'chayakkada' and Bengali 'adda'— spaces where people come together to discuss everything from politics to poetry. France too has a strong café culture that fosters similar democratic dialogue,' Dr. Tharoor said, drawing parallels that resonated with the audience. Ambassador Mathou expressed optimism that the 'Pardon My French!' initiative would ignite curiosity about French literature among Indian readers, particularly the youth. 'Literature is a powerful bridge between cultures. These stories help us understand each other better,' he said. International understanding Several school students in the audience asked the speakers questions on the influence of literature on diplomacy and how cultural exchange shaped international understanding. In reply, both Dr. Tharoor and Dr. Mathou stressed the role of literature in building empathy and global citizenship. The 'Pardon My French!' bookshelf features a diverse selection of French classics and contemporary works, translated into English and Indian languages.
The Hindu
a day ago
- General
- The Hindu
Reading is alive, it has just changed with the times: CM
Reading is far from a dying habit, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has said. He was delivering the keynote address after performing the State-level inauguration of the 30th Reading Day celebrations organised by the P.N. Panicker Foundation here on Thursday. Underscoring the evolving nature of literacy in the digital age, the Chief Minister said, 'The age of reading is not ending; reading is just changing according to the times.' Instead of physical books, people now made use of digital platforms and podcasts. Even as there was talk of change, the basis of the wealth of knowledge was still those books, Mr. Vijayan said. Panicker's contribution Recalling the contributions of P.N. Panicker, Mr. Vijayan said he was one of the most prominent leaders of the library movement. He was considered to have taught the Malayali to read. He set up the Sanadanadharmam library at his birthplace Neelamperoor to enter public life. His efforts to set up libraries across the State and promote them were a part of the State's history, the Chief Minister said. Panicker's message of 'Read and grow, think and gain wisdom' was still relevant. Each Reading Day observance was a reminder of modern Kerala's rich culture, he said. National campaign He spoke of the State's historical role in spearheading reading movements and affirmed its continued commitment to nurturing a reading culture among its people. The celebrations mark the beginning of a month-long national campaign to promote reading. The observance will continue till July 18, with activities spanning all States, the Chief Minister said. Schoolchildren who attended the event recited a reading pledge prepared by the foundation. The ambitious 'One lakh Vaayanasadhas' project that aims to organise 1,00,000 reading forums across the country was rolled out on the occasion. Minister for General Education V. Sivankutty presided. P.N. Panicker Foundation vice chairman N. Balagopal spoke.
India.com
a day ago
- Lifestyle
- India.com
7 Must-Try South Indian Snacks That Aren't Dosa Or Idli
This crispy, golden, doughnut-shaped snack made from urad dal is a South Indian classic. Served with coconut chutney and sambar, it's crunchy outside, soft inside—and totally addictive! Fluffy on the inside and crisp outside, these deep-fried balls made of maida and curd are a beloved tea-time treat in Karnataka. Best enjoyed hot with coconut chutney. Thin steamed rice noodles tossed with spicy podi (gunpowder), sesame oil, and curry leaves. A light yet flavorful dish that's a Tamil Nadu favourite. A popular street snack from Andhra Pradesh, punugulu are deep-fried fritters made from fermented idli or dosa batter. Crunchy, spicy, and best served with peanut chutney. Raw banana slices dipped in spiced gram flour batter and deep-fried to perfection. A monsoon favourite across Telugu-speaking regions. Steamed rice flour dumplings spiced with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and coconut. A healthy and savoury Tamil delicacy, perfect for breakfast or evening snack. Kerala's version of pakoras, made with sliced onions, rice flour, and spices. Crispy, crunchy, and a staple with evening tea in many Malayali homes. Read Next Story
