With its hill station, misty mornings, tea plantations and the colonial charm, Ooty is one of the most-loved destinations for all travellers. But when in ooty, one thing that is unmissable is its local cuisine. A burst of flavours for the tastebuds, Ooty’s cuisine is loved for its variety.
To get a taste of the local fare, one must visit the local restaurants and food stalls. There are numerous eateries in Ooty that serve up delicious dishes from the region. From traditional Coorgi dishes like pandi curry and akki roti to Tamil specialties like idli and dosa, there’s something for everyone.
For a true taste of local cuisine, one must try the Pandi Curry. This traditional Coorgi dish is made with pork and spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves. The pork is cooked in a thick gravy and served with steamed rice or akki roti, a type of flatbread made with rice flour.
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Another popular dish in Ooty is the Kaima Idli, a type of steamed rice cake. It is made with a mixture of rice and lentils and is served with a variety of chutneys, sambar and coconut chutney. The Kaima Idli is usually served as breakfast and is a must-try for tourists.
Yet another local specialty is the Ooty Biryani. This dish is made with long-grained basmati rice and is flavoured with spices and herbs. It is usually served with raita, a yogurt-based condiment, and is a popular dish among locals and tourists alike.
When it comes to snacks, one must try the Ooty Bonda. This deep-fried snack is made with a mixture of mashed potatoes, onions, chillies and spices. It is usually served with chutneys and is a popular snack among locals and tourists.
For those who are looking for something sweet, the Ooty Halwa is a must-try. This traditional dessert is made with semolina, sugar, ghee and cardamom and is usually served with a scoop of ice cream.
Ooty also has a variety of fruit-based desserts. The Ooty Jamun is a popular dessert made with a variety of Indian fruits like jamun, mango, banana and jackfruit. It is usually served with ice cream or custard.
For those who are looking for a more traditional dessert, the Ooty Payasam is a must-try. This dish is made with a mixture of rice, jaggery, and coconut milk and is usually served with a scoop of ice cream.
Ooty is also known for its range of beverages. The most popular beverage is the Ooty Tea, which is made with a blend of tea leaves and spices. It is usually served with milk and sugar and is a popular beverage among locals and tourists alike.
These are just some of the local delicacies that one can find in Ooty. From traditional Coorgi dishes to Tamil specialties, there is something for everyone in this picturesque hill station. So, if you’re looking for a taste of local cuisine, Ooty is the place to be.