Southern Spice at Taj Coromandel is presenting a new Appam and Stew celebration centred on the traditional South Indian pairing of soft appams and slow-cooked stews. Regional culinary influences from Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka are being highlighted through a specially curated menu designed for both lunch and dinner service. A combination of classic recipes and contemporary interpretations is being offered as part of the limited dining experience at the Chennai property.
The menu is being curated by the culinary team led by Vikas Milhoutra, Executive Chef at Taj Coromandel. The dishes are being prepared to reflect the flavours commonly associated with coastal South Indian home-style cooking while also being adapted for restaurant dining. “Simple yet soulful flavours,” was how Vikas Milhoutra, Executive Chef at Taj Coromandel, described the inspiration behind the menu.
Traditional appam combinations are being positioned at the centre of the experience. Palappam is being served with Kerala-style Vegetable Ishtu, while Ragi Idiyappam is being paired with Mangalore Chicken Stew. Kallappam is also being accompanied by a Tamil Nadu-style Mutton Elumbu Stew prepared with regional spices and slow-cooked flavours. Wheat Appam served with sweet coconut milk and banana is additionally being offered as a sweeter option within the menu.
Several coastal curries and stews are also being included to expand the dining experience. Prawn Moilee, Kozhi Kurumulagu Stew, Kadala Curry, Meen Manga Curry, and Chana-Coconut Stew are being served alongside appam and idiyappam combinations. Stuffed appams filled with paneer or spiced egg are also being introduced as contemporary additions to the traditional spread.
The dessert section is being inspired by familiar South Indian comfort dishes and beverages. Elaneer Payasam and Pazham Pori served with jaggery sauce are being featured alongside a Filter Coffee Panna Cotta, which is being presented as a modern interpretation of South India’s popular filter coffee culture. Through the Appam and Stew celebration, a broader regional dining experience is being showcased at Southern Spice within Taj Coromandel.