India is truly a land of diversity when it comes to food. Every state has its own speciality and staple food. In South India, breakfast items are very popular and some eat it as lunch, dinner, or even as a snack. With its 5 states, 2 union territories, rocky plateau, river valleys' and coastal plains, the south of India is extremely different from its Northern counterpart. Each have their own culture, languages and many different cuisines. Rice is the main food in most of the areas along with non-vegetarian food being equally popular as much as vegetarian food. Some of the cooking is also done in coconut oil. The South of India is known as 'the land of spices' and for all the right reasons. Let's cover four of the most popular south Indian dishes which are also loved by people in other parts of India.
1. Dosa
Similar to crepes, Dosa is a popular breakfast item often eaten as main course as well in other parts of India. Made with fermented rice and lentils, dosas can be eaten with a filling of just unstuffed and crisp.
Coconut is one of the most important ingredients and is used in various forms: dry, desiccated or as is. Coconut chutney and vegetable and lentil curry (sambhar) is accompanied with dosas to make it tastier. Masala Dosa is the king of all dosas! Listed as one of the world's most delicious foods, a Masala Dosa never fails to impress.
2. Chicken 65
I'm not sure how this dish got its name but it is unforgettable once you try it. This fried chicken mixed with spicy flavoring deserves a spot on this list for famous South Indian dishes to try. Sweet and spicy at the same time, the spices leave you craving for more. Eat it dry or with rice, it tastes simply yummy.
3. Wada & Idli Sambhar
Another snack to munch on or gorge on when hungry is the Wada and Sambhar or Idli. Sambhar is similar to the one served with Dosa. Idli is steamed sponge cakes which are immersed in Sambhar before eating. Another combination is the fried snack which looks similar to donut but is not sweet. Idli is made in several sizes these days and served as enter before the main meal. It's one of the healthiest breakfast one can have.
4. Rasam
Rasam is another soup based on juices fromtamarind, tomato, cumin, pepper, and other spices. Besides being an amazing remedy for cold, sore throat and other health benefits, it is very tasty. The taste is very distinct, with spicy, sweet and sour mixed together.
Pickles and pappadams are always served on the side and yogurt makes a frequent appearance as well. There are several other dishes on the menu like Appam, Chettinad Chicken, Upma, Uttapam, and Biryani. All the states in India have their own version of Biryani and believe it or not all of them tastes awesome. Last but not the least, when in South India, don't forget to try the ultimate sweet called Payasam and in the end finish your meal with Filter Coffee.