Deepavali/Diwali is India’s biggest festival. It is our Christmas. It is the festival we wait for all year long. People all over the country and abroad save up to spend lavishly on Diwali every year. Be it on sweets, clothes or fireworks. This is a festival that is grand in every respect. The name literally means Deepa for lamp and Oli for light. It is a festival that dispels evil and brings in joy. This year, especially, has been shrouded in darkness and we could all definitely do with a festival that brings in light and dispels darkness.
Diwali in India is a time when calories are at an all time high. The amount of food we eat during this period is so much that we even have an herbal remedy called “Deepavali marundhu” that is made on this special day to combat the after effects of eating such high caloric foods. One of the biggest reasons I I love this festival besides the lights is because it gives me a chance to not only have good food but an opportunity to make certain recipes that I wouldn’t make on a regular basis otherwise. No Diwali is complete without fried snacks and sweets in my home. Here are some of the amazing Diwali snacks and sweets I made this year!
Mul thenkuzhalThenkuzhalDoodh and Chocolate pedasKaju pista roll
Rasam, a humble South Indian brew of herbs and spices with sour fruits, owns an esteemed spot in a typical Madras samayal across homes in Tamil Nadu. The humble rasam recipe is so highly regarded that it makes a royal appearance in festive and wedding menus today. No South Indian meal is ever quite complete without a humble rasam.
Rasam Recipe – A Medicinal Broth
The Rasam recipe in Tamil Nadu came about originally to combat illnesses and is, to date, a recommendation made by doctors in South India for common colds and fevers. It is the dish we feed our children. And a good pot of Rasam will almost always garnish the recipe with the quintessential curry leaves in the Tamil version. A bowl of rasam saadham (rasam mixed with rice) laced with a nice dollop of ghee and a hot potato curry will have your child’s dinner tantrums a thing of the past. I’m yet to meet a child that does not like rasam.
Memories of Karnataka
Having studied in Karnataka for a couple of years, I had the opportunity to explore the Kannadiga rasam. While I love my Tamil way of making rasam, I was intrigued by our neighboring state’s highlight on tomatoes. As opposed to the tamarind-heavy broth loaded with toovar dal in Tamil Nadu, our neighbor makes a sweeter broth that lifts the flavors of the tomatoes, ginger, peppercorns, and lemon. Obviously, the secret to their rasam lies in their rasam powder.
Versatile Spice Powder for Rasam Recipe
This powder is quite different from our Tamil version. Undoubtedly, it is one of my favorites to cook potatoes with. Since my time in Karnataka, I have combined my Tamil recipe with a Kannadiga rasam powder. It is worth taking time out to make this recipe every 3-6 months. This powder is what makes your rasam pop, and it might be the best one you’ve had yet. Finally, to wrap this up, you can check out my recipe for the Kannadiga-inspired rasam powder here.
Kalpana was loading up canisters with fried snacks. She had been busy with preparing the batter for the snacks and sweets of different shapes, tastes and textures all morning. The smell of oil and incense from the pooja filled the air.
A week before Diwali, the entire family was busy with preparations for the grand celebration. This year was no less! Balaji and Devu were making a list. Flower pots, atom bombs, hydrogen bombs, Lakshmi vedi. They even argued over what number to choose for the saram. Devu said “10000. Anything less would be a shame”. They bought a truck load of crackers to make sure this Diwali was going to be just as cacophonous and more joyful than last year.
It was the morning of Diwali. Balaji and Devu’s father arranged the crackers like sweets at a baby shower. This was definitely going to be the most spectacular show on their block. Balaji and Devu were at it non-stop. The fireworks spewed colors and shapes so magical it made people feel their dreams were coming true. The vibrant colors in the sky spelled out the beauty of their culture. Balaji and Devu lit up hydrogen bombs at the same time. They even did a countdown. 5 4 3 2 1 …. BANG!
In a town called Sivakasi about 550kms away, 8-year old Amba’s hands burst. Her small hands were now strings of charred meat hanging off her charred bone. Amba’s employer had flouted local laws and safety measures yet again!
This is not so much of a post. I love sharing a few personal stories every now and then. And this is a small episode from our lives.
A few years ago, my husband and I had gone camping with his brother to Kings Canyon National Park in California. Believe me when I say this was our first time camping ever. We rented a tent and some camp gear before we headed to the park. Our first day was as eventful as one can imagine. With help from a nearby family, we managed to pitch our tent. We were so proud that we even celebrated with a nice meal of dosas cooked on our camp stove.
On that first night in our tent, it was pitch dark. The only sounds we heard was the faint rush of the King’s River flowing near our campsite and the sound of our breath against our sleeping bags. It was an utter thrill to be sleeping in the forest amid all the nature you can possibly ask for.
Roaring river falls, Kings Canyon National Park
I was content and almost on my way to subconscious bliss when there was a strange light that shone in our tent. We listened in and realized a car was backing up on to the road somewhere near us. So we went back to sleep. Suddenly, we heard this rustling of leaves near our tent. Just then, the shadow of a figure appeared in our tent moving with the movement of the car’s lights. Our first thoughts were we had a visitor on four paws. My husband held on to my hand with an iron grip and said “ Don’t worry, I got you.”. On the other side, he held on to his brother’s hand and assured him the same.
Once the car lights were gone, I didn’t think much of it and focused on going back to sleep. But it seemed my husband decided he couldn’t sleep and wouldn’t let us sleep until he had figured out what was rustling the leaves outside our tent. It turned out to be just a small flap flailing about in the wind on the side of our tent that had our over-imaginative minds guessing.
The first time camping is always the best one. You hear all these stories about bears making entrances. And especially after an evening of making dosas on a campsite, your mind is run with ideas of a dosa-craving bear rummaging around the site for dosas and a cup of chutney!
There is nothing like a warm bowl of lentil-y garlic-ky rasam with rice and a peppery potato curry in this world. It is the ultimate comfort food that isn’t loaded with calories and makes you feel like you are wrapped in a cozy blanket by the fireside in winter. A good rasam builds with time and patience. You can’t stir it continuously nor can you rush it. It is like brewing tea. The more you steep, the more you build the flavors. Rasam tastes even better the next day in my opinion.
Inspirations from Karnataka
During my time living in Karnataka, I was introduced to their version of rasam. Their brews are brighter, sweeter and very drinkable. I realized years later as I experimented with different versions of rasams and spice powders that a combination of my Tamil style rasam combined with a Kannadiga style rasam powder makes for a rasam like you’ve never had before. My recipe for rasam powder makes a soul-satisfying broth and can also be used to spice up your potato curry. It is also an excellent garnish for sambars.
Notes:
Store in an air-tight container. It should last about 3-4 months.
I use dried curry leaves bought in bulk to make this powder. It is less expensive here in the US. Fresher curry leaves lend a brighter flavor.
You can also a small piece of solid asafetida for a more authentic flavor.
New York city to me is the city of hope. A strong invisible rope that runs along the city binds every New Yorker together and this is visible to an outsider like me. You can feel a strong sense of community amidst the chaos and it’s beautiful to see.
On our way to NYC
Driving to New York city from Virginia after a weekend with family, we stayed put in nearby New Jersey overlooking the city of New York. From our landscape windows of every single room of our apartment stay, we saw the twinkling lights of the skyscrapers and the breathtaking Hudson river bearing boats and ferries carrying passengers back and forth. I could never get tired of this sight. It was worth waking up to and also the last thing to see every day and night!
Boats of New York
Staying in New Jersey was a conscious decision because this was our daughter’s first trip ever. Choosing to experience the magical NYC during the day and the quiet of Jersey by night, our vacation was planned around lots of subway rides, experiencing New York’s food scene and the architechtural magnificence of New York while winding down to a relaxed evening back at our apartment in New Jersey.
Visiting the Empire State Building is a must but one that you should do with skip-the-line tickets if possible. The extra cost provided us with a wonderful experience and witness the panoramic views of New York city with towering skyscrapers that look like legos from on top of the tower to the silk ribbon of the Hudson River seen from any part of the building is spectacular. The elevator looks straight of Mad Men portraying a very 60s – 70s glamorous corporate scene. The elevator ride stops in a few floors. The 2nd floor is a great spot to capture the essence of New York city and the Empire State building with interactive simulation, videos and displays. The 86th floor is an open air observatory where you witness the expanse of New York City in the finest bird’s eye-view.
Birds-eye view of New York City
Other adventures in New York city included the lush green Central Park, a rare sight in a concrete jungle, the Statue of Liberty sightseeing cruise, the National 9/11 Memorial, Times Square, Rockefeller center and much more. Another favorite spot is the Oculus, a terminal situated by the 9/11 memorial and one world observatory on the subway system. It is modern and architecturally very unique, a must see if you visit New York.
Oculus
For a New York – Italian experience, we headed to Eataly, a stylish Italian market with shops, restaurants and bars that were all things Italian. It is certainly not for the budget traveller. Eataly is a true gourmet experience to drink the finest of wine and ingredients so rare in fresh made-to-serve pastas and pizzas.
The many wheels of cheese at Eataly, NYC
On the humbler side of things, we had to make the mandatory Joe’s Pizza pit-stop recommended by all tourist pages. A small hole-in-the-wall serving you fresh pizzas by the slice, Joe’s is a stop you must take because what is a trip to New York after all if you don’t eat a good slice of pizza there?
Joe for the win 😉Joe’s slice of heaven
The beauty of New York is the amalgamation of different cultures. It is the land of immigrants and it shows in the vibrancy that is New York. Famed for its Chinatown, we stopped at Xi’an foods to experience their hand-pulled noodles from the Szechuan cuisine recommended by many locals. This place is mandatory if you love authentic Chinese food. The chili oil made with Sichuan peppercorns and garlic is to die for. Hugging and holding on to fresh hand-pulled noodles, the dish is a super hit!
America’s first pizzeria
Even though I am not someone with a sweet tooth, I had to make a stop at Momofoku Milk Bar. Christina Tosi is one of my favourite TV pastry chefs and the simplicity behind the concept of her birthday cake recipe never ceases to amaze me. I got the famous cereal milk soft serve with cornflakes crunch on top. Growing up, I would always finish up the cornflakes leaving some of that milk with cornflakes bits behind. This milk soaked with the flavor of our beloved Kellogg’s cornflakes was the highlight of having cereal. The cereal milk soft serve is exactly just that! It brings back a rush of childhood memories and if you’re one of the many cereal milk lovers, this has to be on your list of things to do when you visit New York.
Fearless Girl better than the charging bull
I could go on and on about New York and the many things I did on my trip there. And this was just my first trip. There is so much more I haven’t seen and it will take me atleast a dozen more trips to say I’ve seen the city with all my heart. But what travelogue of New York is complete without the mention of their subways. Saving the best for last, the New York subway is an amazing experience for anyone that doesn’t have a subway system in their city. It connects you faster and better than any car or taxi. Of course, the taxis there are popular. In my opinion, the trains are a much better option. And to get the best New York subway experience, head to the Grand Central station. It is like going to a concert you will never forget. The experience is definitely one of a lifetime for every tourist. The grandiose of the structure, the music and the pure energy of the people flooding it make this the most vibrant place you will experience anywhere on the planet.
The grand chandeliers of Grand Central
The city of New York is truly a city that never sleeps. It has so much to offer for every person. From the constant music to the mouth-watering selection of foods to the many social events happening in the city, New York is an emotion that has to be experienced at least once in your lifetime!
Subways of NY
Side note – For people that grew up watching Friends the tv show, check out 90 Bedford St, New York and even a small restaurant where Central Perk should have been!
I hear an annoying buzz in my ear. It’s the damn fly again. A man pedals by on his bicycle. The smell of pakodas are wafting in the air. Mmmm….. delicious! I bet it’s the Pakoda House. Maybe I’ll swing by later…
HONK! A car wants me to move out of the way. Maybe I’ll swing by now. So I start walking to my favorite spot, the king of the food street- Pakoda House. Seriously, this is the best place in the world. The owner Mr. Kamesh adores me and I charm him into giving me a pakoda or two. Mr. Kamesh, who smells of pakodas and chutney, is the nicest man you will ever know.
I am waiting in line and don’t understand why it is his assistant handing out the food today. Where is Mr.Kamesh? I ask but no one seems to respond. I go closer to the assistant. He pats me on my back and smiles but doesn’t say a thing. I refuse the pakodas and decide to wait a little longer. A few hours later, my best friend Mani comes by for his afternoon samosa. Still no sign of Mr.Kamesh. I wait all day by the corner of the shop for Mr. Kamesh. My day is never complete without him.
It is now night. The cows in the street are fast asleep. The low rumble of vehicles are heard lesser and lesser as the hours pass by. It is almost midnight when a vague smell of pakodas and chutney fills the air. I perk up my ears to hear the footsteps that followed. A hand strokes my back and ruffles my ears. I jump up to find Mr. Kamesh smiling at me. We hug it out. He brings me a bowl of my favorite dog food and puts in two pakodas as opposed to the usual one and says “I’m sorry Raja I made you wait all day. This extra one is to say I’m sorry.” It is all good. I swallow both pakodas in one huge bite. I can now finally have a good night’s sleep.
If you’re a fan of South Indian cuisine, you’re probably familiar with vathal kuzhambu. This tangy and spicy tamarind-based stew is a staple in many South Indian households, and undoubtedly, for good reason! It’s packed with complex flavors and aromatic spices, making it a delight for your taste buds. But have you ever tried making it with butternut squash? Adding butternut squash to the vathal kuzhambu recipe is a sweet twist on the classic dish and a delicious way to enjoy the hearty and sweet flavors of this seasonal squash.
Learn how to make butternut squash vathal kuzhambu step-by-step, so you can enjoy this delicious meal in the comfort of your own home. Let’s get started!
Where It Began
Rural Tamil culture is one that was born out of nature. The simple, traditional rural life of Tamil Nadu is one that just makes sense today. Eco-friendly, sustainable, and respectful of all living things.
Evolution of Vathals
Tamil Nadu is a tropical place that experiences hot and humid weather for a large chunk of every year. Historically, the woman discovered ways to preserve food for longer due to the warmer conditions and the lack of refrigeration technology. The need to preserve food sparked a slew of sun-dried recipes. These recipes were made annually when the days shifted to hotter temperatures. The practice of sun drying is called differently in different communities across Tamil Nadu. One such practice is drying vathals in the sun.
How Vathals are made
Vathals are made by sun-drying any vegetable or fruit. Unlike fresh vegetables, it is interesting that the more traditional varietals are made from the West’s highly frowned upon black nightshade plant Manathakkali and the Solanum Torvum plant, also known as Sundakkai.
Some involve soaking them in buttermilk and salt for a few days until they turn color. Some involve mixing fresh-cut vegetables or fruit in a thick batter made from rice flour, green chilies, and other spices. They are then sun-dried in small pieces on a large piece of thin muslin cloth. Obviously, these are just a couple of ways to do it. There are plenty of other variations to make the sun-dried recipe. The Vathals can be fried to be used in stews or just like that as a snack!
Substitute Vathals with Vegetables in your Vathal Kuzhambu Recipe
Once the Vathals are made, they are simmered in stews as a replacement for fresh vegetables that may not readily be available. A popular dish that uses them is the traditional Tamil dish Vathal Kuzhambu which holds a very special place in every Tamil recipe book today. It is the recipe we make when we want something comforting and special that will last longer than a day.
This recipe, however, can also be made with fresh vegetables and fruits, referred to as thaan. In our family, we love a very unconventional butternut squash thaan for making an Iyer-style Vathal Kuzhambu and pair this with a hearty South Indian Urulai Roast Kari. Here’s my recipe.
Notes:
I can’t pinpoint what castor oil does to this dish. But the tablespoon makes the kuzhambu taste rich.
*Appalams are sun-dried lentil flatbread deep-fried in oil. They make excellent accompaniments to rice-based dishes or are great as a snack.
Nestled between the tourist-packed glamorous Cancún and Playa Del Carmen of the Yucatán peninsula is the quaint little fishing port town of Puerto Morelos. Rickety old wooden boats bobbing in the salty yet blissful Caribbean sea and local children sucking on their ice lollies are regular scenes you witness when you visit Puerto Morelos.
Our trip to Mexico was extra special because this was the last trip of just the two of us alone and the first of the 3 of us as a family.
My pea in a pod braved the mesoamerican barrier reef system in questionable boats with just a raggedy old life jacket. We snorkeled, played in the water, and spent hours drawing hearts and playing tic tac toe on the ocean sand, watching the waves wash our art over and over again.
Here are 14 reasons why you must visit Puerto Morelos.
Beautiful beaches – Puerto Morelos is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico. The white sand and crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.
Snorkeling and diving – The coral reef located just offshore is a popular spot for snorkeling and diving. Visitors can explore the vibrant underwater world and swim with colorful fish, sea turtles, and other marine creatures.
Unspoiled nature – Puerto Morelos is surrounded by lush greenery, mangroves, and wildlife. Visitors can take a guided tour of the nearby nature reserve and witness the beauty of the flora and fauna.
Peaceful atmosphere – Unlike other tourist destinations in Mexico, Puerto Morelos has a quiet and laid-back atmosphere that is perfect for those seeking a peaceful and relaxing vacation.
Local culture – The village is home to a friendly and welcoming local community that is proud of its culture and traditions. Visitors can experience the local way of life and learn about the customs and history of the region.
Fresh seafood – Puerto Morelos is known for its fresh seafood, which is caught daily by local fishermen. Visitors can sample the delicious dishes at the many restaurants and street vendors located in the village.
Cenotes – The Yucatan Peninsula is home to several cenotes, which are natural swimming holes formed by the collapse of limestone bedrock. Visitors can take a refreshing dip in the cool, crystal-clear waters and explore the unique ecosystem.
Mayan ruins – The Yucatan Peninsula is also home to several Mayan ruins, including the famous Chichen Itza and Tulum. Visitors can take a guided tour and learn about the rich history and culture of the region.
Eco-tourism – Puerto Morelos is committed to sustainable tourism and eco-friendly practices. Visitors can take part in various eco-tourism activities, such as sea turtle conservation, beach cleanups, and wildlife rehabilitation.
Adventure activities – For those seeking adventure, Puerto Morelos offers several activities such as zip-lining, jungle tours, and ATV rides.
Bird-watching – The village is home to several species of birds, including toucans, parrots, and pelicans. Visitors can take a guided bird-watching tour and spot the colorful and exotic birds.
Art and culture – Puerto Morelos is home to several art galleries and cultural centers that showcase the work of local artists and artisans. Visitors can browse the art and learn about the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Wellness and relaxation – The village is home to several spas and wellness centers that offer various treatments such as massages, yoga, and meditation.
Sunsets – Finally, Puerto Morelos offers some of the most beautiful sunsets in Mexico. Visitors can enjoy the breathtaking views of the sun setting over the Caribbean Sea and relax in the peaceful and serene atmosphere.
Our cozy beachfront cottage
Cool winter breeze and playful stray dogs set the mood for our long walks from this cozy little beachfront cottage we were renting to the town’s square where musicians serenaded everyone with live Mexican music. With tabletop shops selling artwork, clothing & jewelry and restaurants serving flavors of local food, the town square became our favorite spots to hang out in the evenings.
Small straw hut shops along the square sold fresh fruits and vegetables. Some shopkeepers would go the extra mile to slice up delicious ripe mangoes and sprinkle chili powder, salt, and lemon. It transported us back to our childhood days eating mangoes from the pushcarts at Marina Beach in Chennai.
The grand Chichén Itzá
The Chichén Itzá is a spectacular ancient Mayan city that is worth a visit when you are in the beautiful state of Quintana Roo. The ruins reminded us a lot of our own South Indian temple architecture. It is a beautiful 2.5-hour drive from Puerto Morelos. We stopped en route at Valladolid, a town that boasts colonial-style architecture, and the array of colors of buildings and homes is a sight to see.
This structure reminds me so much of South Indian Architecture
The Caribbean waters on the Yucatán peninsula are the bluest of blues, and the sand is so soft like flour. Away from the glitzy overcrowded resorts of nearby cities, Puerto Morelos is the perfect vacation destination to enjoy the culture and architecture of Mexico while relaxing your mind, body, and soul!
The many seaweed carpeting the beaches of the Yucatán Peninsula
Plan a trip to Puerto Morelos
Overall, Puerto Morelos is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, culture, and adventure. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful getaway or an action-packed vacation, Puerto Morelos has something for everyone. So if you’re planning a trip to Mexico, make sure to add Puerto Morelos to your travel itinerary and experience the magic of this charming village for yourself.
One of the charming things about traveling around lush South India is the access to healthy food options. Fast food is fast but never unhealthy. Nothing can beat a relaxed sit-down meal served on a banana leaf. The harmony of colors and flavors as you scoop the food off the banana leaf is an experience on its own. I would opt for the latter any day! Here is a little recollection of my journey exploring Bodi – the cardamom capital of Tamil Nadu.
Undoubtedly, far away from the hustle and bustle of Chennai, the calm interiors of Tamil Nadu are a clean and welcome change!
Our Trip to Tamil Nadu and Kerala
Our trip around South India began in our hometown Chennai and made its finale among the humble tea plantations of the luscious hill station town Munnar. We sojourned at the textile haven Coimbatore and explored the precious “princess of hills” Kodaikanal. Obviously, Our itinerary was lined up with a few small towns and villages along the way. But there was one place that was not meant to be a stop that I can never forget.
Have you ever felt spellbound by a place so lush it was like a beautiful poem you can never forget? That was Bodi or Bodinayakkanur for me. Bodi is a small town, a mere 20 mins from Theni, sometimes described as “Earth’s hidden paradise”. Lying at the foothills of the Western Ghats, Bodi is considered the cardamom capital of India.
Bodi is located at the foothills of the Western Ghats and is surrounded by lush green tea estates, mountains, and waterfalls. Bodi is known for its natural beauty and is a popular destination for tourists seeking a peaceful and scenic getaway.
Visit the Tea Plantations when exploring Bodi
Of course, one of the main attractions in Bodi is its tea estates. The town is home to several tea plantations, which are spread over vast acres of land. These plantations produce some of the finest tea in the country and attract tea enthusiasts from all over the world. Visitors can take a guided tour of the tea estates and witness the process of tea-making, from plucking the leaves to processing and packaging. Some of the popular tea estates in Bodi include the High Field Tea Estate, the Kuttikkanam Estate, and the Mayilaadumpara Estate.
Unexplored Nature in the heart of Bodi
Apart from tea estates, Bodi is also home to several waterfalls that are worth exploring. One of the most popular waterfalls in the town is Suruli Falls, which is located about 35 km from Bodi. The falls are surrounded by lush green forests and offer a breathtaking view of the cascading water. Visitors can take a dip in the cool waters and enjoy the beauty of nature. Another popular waterfall in Bodi is the Kumbakarai Falls, which is situated in the Kodaikanal hills. The falls are surrounded by dense forests and offer a serene and peaceful atmosphere.
Exploring Bodi is a Trekker’s Paradise – Bodinayakkanur
For those interested in trekking and hiking, Bodi offers several opportunities to explore the surrounding hills and mountains. The town is located at the foothills of the Western Ghats and offers some of the most scenic trekking routes in the region. The Megamalai Wildlife Sanctuary, which is located about 20 km from Bodi, is home to several trekking trails that offer panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and forests. The trekking routes in Bodi vary in difficulty and can be customized to suit the needs of different levels of trekkers.
Witness rich culture in Bodi
Another must-visit attraction in Bodi is the Veerapandi Gowmariamman Temple, which is located in the heart of the town. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Gowmariamman and is a popular pilgrimage site for devotees. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture, intricate carvings, and colorful decorations. Visitors can witness the daily rituals and prayers conducted at the temple and learn about the rich history and culture of the region.
In addition to its natural beauty and religious sites, Bodi is also known for its delicious cuisine. The town is famous for its traditional South Indian dishes, such as dosas, idlis, sambar, and simple, heartwarming rasams. Visitors can sample the local delicacies at the many restaurants and street vendors located in the town.
Overall, Bodi is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or an adrenaline junkie, Bodi has something for everyone. So if you’re looking for a peaceful and scenic getaway, consider adding Bodi to your travel itinerary and experience the magic of this beautiful town for yourself.
An Unforgettable Poem that is Bodi
As we ascended the Western Ghats, wrapping the outskirts of Bodi, it felt unreal that such a place would even exist where I come from. If this isn’t heaven, I don’t know what is. Like a painting etched in my mind, these will be the 5 minutes I will never forget for the rest of my life.
