Udupi cuisine

Cuisine of the Udupi region in Karnataka, India

Udupi cuisine is a renowned style of South Indian cuisine that originates from the Udupi region in the state of Karnataka, India. It is known for its vegetarian dishes and the use of locally available ingredients. Udupi cuisine is closely associated with the Udupi Krishna Temple, and it has influenced the culinary traditions of the region significantly.

History

Udupi cuisine has its roots in the Madhwa Brahmin community, which is known for its strict adherence to vegetarianism. The cuisine developed around the Udupi Krishna Temple, where food is prepared as an offering to the deity. The temple's kitchen, known as the "Mutt", has played a crucial role in shaping the culinary practices of the region.

Characteristics

Udupi cuisine is characterized by its use of locally grown ingredients such as coconut, rice, jaggery, tamarind, and a variety of spices. The cuisine is strictly vegetarian and avoids the use of onions and garlic. Instead, it relies on a variety of lentils, grains, and vegetables to create flavorful dishes.

Popular Dishes

• Masala dosa: A popular South Indian dish made with fermented rice and lentil batter, filled with a spicy potato mixture. The Butter Masala Dosa is a variation that includes butter for added richness.
• Neer dosa: A thin, crepe-like dosa made from rice batter, known for its soft texture and mild flavor.
• Goli baje: Also known as Mangalore bajji, these are deep-fried fritters made from flour, yogurt, and spices.
• Khotto: A type of idli steamed in jackfruit leaves, giving it a unique flavor and aroma.
• Pulikodel: A dish made with ash gourd cooked in a coconut-based gravy, flavored with tamarind and spices.
• Mosaranna: A simple dish of curd rice, often served as a cooling accompaniment to spicy dishes.
• Jackfruit idli: A sweet variation of idli made with ripe jackfruit pulp, jaggery, and rice.

Culinary Influence

Udupi cuisine has had a significant influence on the culinary landscape of South India. Many popular South Indian vegetarian restaurants, known as "Udupi hotels", serve dishes inspired by this cuisine. The emphasis on simple, wholesome ingredients and traditional cooking methods has made Udupi cuisine popular among vegetarians worldwide.

Related pages

• South Indian cuisine
• Karnataka cuisine
• Vegetarianism in India

Gallery

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  Butter Masala Dosa

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  Arbi Pakoda

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  Khotto

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  Neer Dosa

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  Goli Baje

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  Jackfruit Idli

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  Pulikodel

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  Mosaranna

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  Sweet dish

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  Idli from Hotel Diana