7 lesser-known cuisines of South India
This variety isn't just delicious—it reflects how people live, grow, and share their food with care. Here's a look at some lesser-known southern cuisines that carry stories in every bite.
Kongunadu (Tamil Nadu)
This cuisine comes from the western part of Tamil Nadu and uses very little oil and spices, so the natural flavours stand out. Coconut, groundnuts, and turmeric are used a lot, giving the food a soft, comforting taste.
Dishes like soft Kambu Dosas (made with pearl millet) and Kola Urundai (lentil dumplings) make the meal feel simple and filling. It's the kind of food that doesn't just satisfy hunger—it leaves you feeling light, cared for, and well-fed.
Udupi (Karnataka)
Udupi cuisine is a traditional temple-style vegetarian food that's full of flavour, even without using onion or garlic. Meals are balanced, with rice, dal, rasam, vegetable curries, and chutneys, usually served on banana leaves.
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
Beyond Text Generation: An AI Tool That Helps You Write Better
Grammarly
Install Now
Undo
Dishes like saaru, majjige huli (buttermilk curry), and chana sundal are not just tasty—they're made to keep the body and mind calm and balanced.
Malnad (Karnataka)
Found in the hilly, forested regions of Karnataka, Malnad food is closely connected to nature. It uses wild greens, local yams, bamboo shoots, and plenty of coconut in its curries. Dishes like tili saaru (a light rasam), akki rotti (rice flatbread), and honey-soaked sweets make this cuisine feel fresh, earthy, and perfect for the rainy season.
Chettinad (Tamil Nadu)
While known for its spicy non-veg fare, Chettinad also offers bold vegetarian dishes using kalpasi (stone flower), fennel, and star anise. The food here is deeply aromatic and often cooked in iron pots. Curries are slow-cooked and layered with flavour. It's rich, but made with ingredients that aid digestion like tamarind, garlic, and dry-roasted spices.
Telangana (Telangana)
This region's cuisine leans on heat, tamarind, and millet.
Ragi sangati (finger millet balls) with spicy gongura chutney is a classic. Telangana food is unfiltered and robust—there's a raw honesty to it. It's designed for tough terrains and hot weather, which is why it's big on cooling elements like curd and fibre-rich grains.
Nellai (Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu)
Located near the southern tip, Nellai cuisine has strong coastal and agrarian roots. Tamarind, coconut, and banana flower are common ingredients.
Famous for its halwa, the region also offers lovely everyday meals like keerai masiyal (mashed greens), kootu (dal-vegetable curry), and simple podi-drenched rice. It's soulful and full of local flavour.
Kodava (Coorg, Karnataka)
Kodava food comes from the misty hills of Coorg and is known for its bold flavours and local ingredients. While pork is a key part of the cuisine, the vegetarian dishes are just as special—like bamboo shoot curry and coconut-rich koot curry. This food follows the rhythm of the region, using what grows fresh in the land and forests around it.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Inside Ameesha Patel's luxurious Mumbai home: Warm interiors, sun-lit balcony, 400 designer bags and rare MF Hussain paintings
Ameesha Patel made her Bollywood debut in 2000 with the film 'Kaho Naa... Pyaar Hai'. She is best known for films like 'Gadar: Ek Prem Katha' (2001), 'Humraaz' (2002), 'Bhool Bhulaiyaa' (2007), 'Race 2' (2013), and 'Gadar 2' (2023). She recently opened the doors to her South Mumbai home in an episode of Farah Khan's YouTube show. The episode, shared on Monday, August 18, gave fans a rare peek into Ameesha's personal space, including her famous collection of luxury bags and shoes. She also cooked red chicken Thai curry, recalling her time in Thailand during the shooting of 'Kaho Naa... Pyaar Hai'. A home designed with style and comfort Ameesha's home, designed by herself, blends luxury with comfort and as she mentions it showcases her 'South Bombay' taste. Farah Khan showcased the entrance, decorated with charming wall arts and nameplates reading 'Amypoo' and 'Star'. The living space is warm and inviting, featuring a dining area with stunning art pieces, the area has wooden flooring and floor-to-ceiling French windows that open onto the balcony that lets in sunlight and offers a view of greenery along with a relaxing seating area. Neutral tones decorate the furniture, while large portraits of Ameesha adorn the walls. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Many Malaysians don't know about this! iOS Credit Read More Undo A mantle displays personal tokens and family pictures. There's even a dedicated space for rare MF Hussain paintings depicting major religions from around the world. The house also has a cosy entertainment room for friends, and after doing 'Gadar', she also framed a shot of herself with Sunny Deol from the film. The luxury bag and shoe collection Ameesha's fashion sense is on full display with her multiple almirahs filled with limited-edition bags and luxury shoes. From Dior and Bottega Veneta to Birkin and YSL totes, her collection is vast. She revealed that she keeps a list of every bag she owns on the cupboard doors, which adds up to around '300-400' pieces. Cooking memories: Red chicken Thai curry Ameesha's kitchen is modular, sleek, and stylish. During the tour, Ameesha, Farah, and Dilip cooked red chicken Thai curry together. Ameesha reminisced about eating this dish every night while shooting 'Kaho Naa... Pyaar Hai' in Thailand, adding a personal and delicious touch. On the work front, Ameesha's last hit film was 'Gadar 2', released in 2023. This period action drama, directed by Anil Sharma, also starred Sunny Deol and Utkarsh Sharma . It was a sequel to the iconic 2001 film 'Gadar: Ek Prem Katha'. "Get the latest updates on Times of India, including reviews of the movie Coolie and War 2 ."
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Patrick Mahomes twins with Bronze and Golden in white as Brittany Mahomes joins kids on the pitch at Kansas City Current game
Patrick Mahomes and kids Bronze and Golden rock matching white outfits. Patrick Mahomes shared a heartwarming outing this weekend, joining the stands – and making headlines – for all the right reasons. The Kansas City Chiefs quarterback caught the spotlight off the football field on August 16, 2025, at CPKC Stadium in Kansas City. Alongside his wife Brittany Mahomes, co-owners of the Kansas City Current, the couple turned a soccer game into a special family outing. They attended the match with their three adorable children — Sterling Skye, Patrick 'Bronze' Lavon III, and baby Golden Raye. Patrick Mahomes, son Bronze and daughter Golden, support Brittany Mahomes' KC Current during family day out While Mahomes sat out the first two preseason games, this outing gave a peek into what keeps him centered off the field: his family. On game day, Mahomes kept it casual cool as he slipped into a crisp white T-shirt with the Kansas City Current logo, clearly supporting his wife's team. His son Bronze was sitting right beside him, matching his dad in a similar white outfit. Little Golden Raye brightly stood out with her own white ensemble, red bow headband and noise-canceling headphones. Brittany Mahomes plays soccer with kids on the sidelines during Kansas City Current match It wasn't just a sitting-and-watching affair. Brittany Mahomes – co-owner of the Current and former soccer player – joined the action. In a video shared by the team that is being widely shared on the internet, she's seen having a playful kickabout pitchside with children Golden and Bronze. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Susan Boyle Is Now so Thin and Looks Beautiful! Undo It was an adorable moment and netizens can't get enough of it. Their three kids were the focus: Sterling Skye (4) kicked the ball with her mom, Patrick 'Bronze' Lavon III (2) played by the sidelines and baby Golden Raye, all of 7 months, melted hearts with her red bow and cute outfit. Mahomes family shares more personal moments during NFL preseason break Earlier this year, Brittany gave fans glimpses of their family adventures – from a trip to Disneyland in April to Easter celebrations, a visit to the zoo and even appearances at the Miami Grand Prix and a charity event in Shadow Creek. Their behind-the-scenes family life is just as popular as Patrick's time on the field. Also read : 'I know he'll be coming through the door soon': Jayden Daniels flashes as Commanders fall 31-17 to Bengals As he heads into the final preseason match against the Chicago Bears, it's clear where his priorities lie – even during the rush of NFL offseason and training camp news, it's family! Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Time of India
3 hours ago
- Time of India
Egyptian Daily Horoscope for August 19, 2025: Surprising news await for these zodiac signs
Step into the sands of time, where ancient wisdom meets modern energy. Egyptian astrology doesn't just look to the stars—it listens to the gods. Each day, divine forces like Ra, Bastet, Thoth, and Anubis stir the energies around you, shaping your path in subtle, sacred ways. Whether you're seeking clarity, strength, love, or a little cosmic validation, the gods of old have a message waiting. Tune in, align, and walk today with purpose and power. Aries Daily Horoscope (Mar 21 – April 19) You could discover a new hobby from a friend's suggestion today. Their idea may seem small at first, but as you try it, you will feel joy and excitement building inside you. This new interest can open a fresh path of creativity in your life. In love, sharing this with someone special deepens your bond. At work, this positive energy makes you shine. Embrace it—it might become something truly meaningful for you. Taurus Daily Horoscope (April 20-May 20) You might enjoy adding fresh flowers to your table today. Their colours and fragrance will instantly brighten your mood and make your space feel alive. This small touch of beauty softens your heart and fills you with peace. In love, this harmony brings sweetness to your interactions. At work, this refreshed energy keeps you calm. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Your Finger Shape Says a Lot About Your Personality, Read Now Tips and Tricks Undo Celebrate this moment—it reminds you how simple things can create a warm and happy atmosphere. Gemini Daily Horoscope (May21- June 20) A warm scarf or hat could bring unexpected comfort to you today. Wrapping yourself in this softness may give you a sense of security and peace, especially if you have been feeling tired. This cosy energy helps you stay grounded and connected. In love, this comfort attracts warmth from your partner. At work, this calmness supports clear thinking. Enjoy this feeling—it shows how small comforts can soothe your soul deeply. Cancer Daily Horoscope (June 21 – July 22) You may take pride in learning a new kitchen trick today. Whether it's a simple method or a clever shortcut, this discovery will boost your confidence and make cooking more enjoyable. Sharing this with someone special can add fun to your day. In love, this playful energy strengthens your bond. At work, this sense of accomplishment lifts your mood. Celebrate this skill—it reminds you that learning never stops and always empowers you. Leo Daily Horoscope (July 23-Aug 22) You might find joy in sharing extra food with someone today. This small act of kindness will not only warm their heart but also fill you with peace. The universe blesses those who give with love. In relationships, this generosity brings harmony. At work, your balanced energy attracts support. This day reminds you that happiness grows when shared. Trust your inner scales—they guide you towards actions that bring light to others and yourself. Virgo Daily Horoscope (Aug 23-Sept 22) A clear window may let in light that brightens your mood today. As the sunshine streams in, you will feel a fresh burst of energy and positivity. This simple moment reminds you that clarity in surroundings brings clarity in thoughts too. In love, this lightness makes you more open and warmer. At work, this fresh energy sparks new ideas. Embrace this brightness—it is a sign that good things are shining your way. Libra Daily Horoscope (Sept 23-Oct 22) You could feel happier after organizing your wallet today. Sorting through it may seem like a small task, but it will bring a sense of order and control to your mind. This calmness spreads to other areas of your life, helping you think more clearly. In love, this peaceful energy strengthens your bond. At work, your focus improves. Celebrate this simple joy—it shows how small actions can create big shifts inside you. Scorpio Daily Horoscope (Oct 23- Nov21) You might enjoy collecting coins or small items just for fun today. This playful activity brings back a sense of curiosity and happiness, making you feel connected to your inner child. In love, this light-hearted mood creates sweet moments. At work, this fresh energy helps you handle tasks with ease. Allow yourself to enjoy this simple pleasure—it is a reminder that joy often hides in the little things you choose to cherish. Sagittarius Daily Horoscope (Nov 22-Dec 21) As you wipe away the dust, you also clear away small worries clouding your thoughts. This moment of clarity makes you feel refreshed and grounded. In relationships, your openness shines through. At work, you notice details others miss. Trust this energy—it reminds you that when you clear your surroundings, you also clear your inner vision. Capricorn Daily Horoscope (Dec 22-Jan 19) You could feel calm while sweeping leaves or dust today. This simple act connects you to the present moment, slowing down your thoughts and easing stress. In love, your peaceful vibe attracts harmony. At work, this grounded energy helps you handle challenges smoothly. Allow yourself to enjoy this quiet ritual—it teaches that even small actions can restore balance and peace to your day. Your calm presence inspires others too. Aquarius Daily Horoscope (Jan 20- Feb 18) You may enjoy folding clothes right out of the dryer today. The warmth in your hands and the neat stacks bring a deep sense of comfort. This small joy lifts your mood and creates order in your space. In love, this soft energy helps you connect better. At work, you feel more in control and less rushed. Appreciate this moment—it reminds you that simple tasks often carry the sweetest peace. Pisces Daily Horoscope (Feb 19-Mar 20) A small repair with tape or glue could make you smile today. Fixing something that seemed useless brings a wave of satisfaction and creativity. This simple act reminds you of your ability to mend not just objects, but also emotions. In relationships, this caring energy strengthens bonds. At work, your resourcefulness shines through. Celebrate this feeling—you are creating harmony, piece by piece, with your own hands and heart. Discover everything about astrology at Times of India , including daily horoscopes for Aries , Taurus , Gemini , Cancer , Leo , Virgo , Libra , Scorpio , Sagittarius , Capricorn , Aquarius , and Pisces . Read your detailed Horoscope Today and Horoscope Tomorrow here.
