Things for Foodies in Chennai

 Chennai, the capital city of Tamil Nadu, is a food lover's paradise. The city is famous for its spicy and tangy cuisine that combines traditional south Indian flavors with international influences. Chennai offers a diverse range of food options that can cater to the taste buds of every foodie out there. Here are some of the things that you must try when in Chennai:

1. Idli and Dosa:

Idli and Dosa are the staple breakfast options in Chennai. The idlis in Chennai are soft, fluffy, and larger in size than those found in other parts of India. On the other hand, dosas are crisp and thin and come in different varieties like masala dosa, onion dosa, and paper dosa. These can be enjoyed with different types of chutneys and sambar, making them a must-try for all food lovers.

2. Filter Coffee:

Chennai is known for its filter coffee, which is a strong, aromatic coffee made from freshly ground coffee beans and boiled milk. The coffee is served in a tumbler and a dabara, which is a small stainless steel cup. The unique brewing process and the perfect blend of coffee and milk make it a must-try beverage in Chennai.

3. Chettinad Cuisine:

Chettinad cuisine is a speciality of the Chettinad region in Tamil Nadu and is known for its fiery spices and complex flavors. The cuisine is a blend of Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada influences and is characterized by the use of ingredients like peppercorns, star anise, cinnamon, and coriander. Some of the popular dishes to try include chicken Chettinad, fish fry, and mutton biryani.

4. Seafood:

Being a coastal city, Chennai is famous for its seafood. The city offers a wide range of fresh seafood options like fish, prawns, crabs, and lobsters. The dishes are prepared in different styles like tandoori, grilled, or fried, and are served with different types of sauces and chutneys.

5. Street Food:

The street food scene in Chennai is vibrant and offers a plethora of options for foodies. Some of the popular street food options include kothu parotta, a dish made with shredded parottas, onions, and spices, and served with gravy; bajji, which is a deep-fried snack made with vegetables like potato, onion, and brinjal; and vada pav, a famous snack from Mumbai that has made its way to the streets of Chennai.

6. Biryani:

Biriyani is a popular rice dish that is famous all over India. Chennai has its own unique style of biriyani that is different from other regions. The Chennai-style biriyani is made with short-grain rice, and the meat is cooked in a spicy gravy before being layered with the rice. The dish is then slow-cooked to allow the flavors to blend and develop.

7. Sweets and Snacks:

Chennai is famous for its sweets and snacks that are made using traditional methods and recipes. Some of the popular sweets include Mysore Pak, a sweet made with ghee, sugar, and gram flour; laddu, a sweet made with gram flour, sugar, and ghee; and halwa, a sweet made with semolina, sugar, and ghee. Some of the popular snacks include murukku, a crispy snack made with rice flour, and thettaikkal, a sweet and savory snack made with rice flour and flavored with cumin seeds and sesame seeds.

8. South Indian Thali:

A thali is a platter that consists of a variety of dishes served in small portions. Chennai offers a wide range of South Indian thalis that are a must-try for all foodies. The thali usually includes rice, sambar, rasam, vegetables, and curries, and is served with different types of bread like roti, paratha, or naan. The thali provides a great way to sample different dishes and flavors of South Indian cuisine.

9. Filtered Water:

While it's not technically a food item, filtered water is a must-try for all visitors to Chennai. The city is known for its unique filtration process that removes impurities and adds a refreshing taste to the water. The filtered water is served in small, stainless steel tumblers and is a must-try for all visitors to Chennai.

10. Masala Chai:

Chennai is famous for its strong, aromatic masala chai that is made with a blend of spices like ginger, cardamom, and cinnamon. The tea is boiled with milk and sugar to give it a rich and creamy texture. The chai is a must-try beverage in Chennai and can be enjoyed with different types of snacks like biscuits or samosas.

11. Ice Cream:

Chennai has a thriving ice cream scene and offers a wide range of flavors and varieties. Some of the popular ice cream shops include Amadora, Cream Stone, and Milky Way, which offer flavors like chocolate, strawberry, and mango. The ice cream can be enjoyed in a cone, cup, or as a sundae, making it a great dessert option for all foodies.

12. Fruit Juices:

Chennai is known for its fresh and delicious fruit juices that are made from a variety of fruits like mango, watermelon, and pineapple. The juices are refreshing and can be enjoyed as a healthy and delicious beverage option. The fruit stalls in Chennai offer a variety of fruit juices that are made on the spot and can be customized to your liking.

In conclusion, Chennai offers a wide range of food options that can cater to the taste buds of every foodie out there. From the staple breakfast options like idli and dosa to the fiery Chettinad cuisine, the city has something for everyone. So, if you're a food lover, make sure to add these items to your list of things to try when in Chennai. Happy eating!