Want to explore Tamil Nadu’s local cuisine? Appalam, the one-of-a-kind pop-up dining experience, is making a comeback with its second edition. So, if you missed it the first time round, it's an opportunity to indulge in this unique culinary event at Sarvaa, in Panjim, on September 28 and 29.
Co-founded by food and travel writer, Insia Lacewalla, and the talented publicist and home chef, Saroja Shankaran, Appalam promises an immersive journey through the rich and varied regional cuisines of Tamil Nadu.
"This is the food I grew up with, and I'm proud to share it with guests eager to explore regional cuisine," says Saroja during a chat with Gomantak Times digital.
"Our trip to The Bangala, a renowned heritage boutique hotel, in Tamil Nadu, celebrated for popularising Chettinad cuisine worldwide, was a transformative experience. Their chef graciously shared the secret of crafting their renowned Okra Mandi, which will be a highlight at our upcoming culinary event," Saroja informs.
Our goal is to showcase the richness of Tamil cuisine, beyond just the well-known dishes like Chicken Chettinad
Insia Lacewalla, Food & travel writer
“The second edition of Appalam will focus on Chettinad cuisine, renowned for its bold spices and heritage recipes. To create an authentic experience, Insia and I travelled to Karaikudi - the heart of Chettinad cuisine - and we’ve returned with locally sourced ingredients and a menu curated with care.”
The upcoming event promises a delectable spread, featuring a variety of dishes. Guests can anticipate savouring flavorful delights like Chicken Chettinad, Mutton Uppu Karai, Kal Dosa and Vellai Paniyarams, complemented by a lavish feast comprising over 20 different dishes.
Additionally, the menu will showcase handmade snacks from Lakshmanan Chettinad Snacks, an establishment run entirely by women in Karaikudi, in Tamil Nadu.
Our trip to The Bangala, a renowned heritage boutique hotel celebrated for popularising Chettinad cuisine worldwide, was a transformative experience. Their chef graciously shared the secret of crafting their renowned Okra Mandi, which will be a highlight at our upcoming culinary event.
Saroja Shankaran, Home chef
"South Indian cuisine is much more than idli and dosa," says Insia. "Saroja’s roots are from Tamil Nadu, and we wanted to explore the state’s diverse culinary landscape."
"Traveling through each region helped us understand the culture and tradition behind the food, which has deeply influenced our menus. Our goal is to showcase the richness of Tamil cuisine, beyond just the well-known dishes like Chicken Chettinad," she adds.
Appalam is a tribute to Tamil Nadu's rich culinary heritage, and every sapadu (means food, a traditional set meal) promises an immersive experience into the flavours and traditions of the region.
So, if you want to savour the flavours of Tamil Nadu, right here in Goa, head to the 'Appalam' dining experience at Sarvaa, in Panjim, on September 28 and 29.
DETAILS
WHAT: Appalam (pop-up dining experience)
LOCATION: Sarvaa, CMM Building, Rua de Ourém, Panjim
WHEN TO GO: September 28 (dinner @ 7 pm) & September 29 (lunch @ 1 pm)
FOR RESERVATIONS: +91 7400400547 or +91 7400400118