BY DR. HIMANSHU TALWAR
(The author, #DrTourism is an industry veteran with various articles, columns, travelogues, and write-ups published specifically on Tourism, Travel, Hospitality, Culinary, Golf, and Aviation to his credit)
NEW DELHI | 6 JUNE 2025
Puducherry, often referred to as the “French Riviera of the East,” boasts a rich and diverse food culture that blends the elegance of French cuisine with the bold, aromatic flavours of South India. The state’s cuisine reflects its colonial past and vibrant coastal heritage, offering a unique culinary experience that spans from indulgent French pastries to fiery South Indian curries.
Fresh seafood, aromatic spices, and indigenous ingredients are at the heart of Puducherry’s dishes. The fusion of French techniques with local flavors creates a dynamic food scene, with everything from creamy café au lait to crispy appams and rich seafood curries.
Let’s explore some iconic dishes of Puducherry cuisine:
- Bouillabaisse – This French-inspired seafood stew, brought to Puducherry during the colonial period, has become a beloved local dish. Bouillabaisse features a mix of fresh fish, prawns, and other seafood, slowly simmered in a broth made with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and herbs. The dish is flavoured with aromatic spices like saffron, fennel, and thyme, creating a delicate yet flavourful stew. Traditionally served with crusty bread, Bouillabaisse in Puducherry reflects the territory’s coastal abundance and French legacy.
- Fish Curry – A quintessential dish of Puducherry, the fish curry is a perfect blend of South Indian spices and coastal flavours. Fresh fish, usually seer fish or mackerel, is simmered in a tangy, spiced gravy made with tamarind, coconut milk, and a mix of local spices such as curry leaves, mustard seeds, and coriander. The curry is both comforting and robust, typically served with steamed rice or idli, allowing the flavors to soak in and create a harmonious meal.
- Puducherry Biryani – Unlike its more famous counterparts from Hyderabad or Chennai, Puducherry’s biryani has a distinct flavour profile. It combines fragrant basmati rice with succulent marinated chicken, mutton, or fish, slow-cooked with aromatic spices like cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom. The rice is infused with saffron, lending a subtle sweetness to the dish. What makes Puducherry’s biryani stand out is the delicate use of tamarind and coconut, which add an extra layer of complexity to the dish.
- Appams with Stew – A popular breakfast dish in Puducherry, appams are soft, thin rice pancakes that are slightly crispy on the edges. Served with a rich stew made from vegetables, chicken, or mutton, appams provide the perfect base to soak up the flavors of the stew. The stew, made with coconut milk and spices like cinnamon and cloves, is creamy and fragrant, offering a delicious balance of textures.
- Puducherry French Toast – A nod to its French influence, Puducherry’s take on French toast is often served as a sweet treat in cafes and local eateries. Slices of bread are dipped in a rich egg batter and fried until golden, then sprinkled with powdered sugar and served with fresh fruits or syrup. The dish is simple yet decadent, perfect for snacking.
- Kolukattai– A traditional South Indian snack, Kolukattai in Puducherry is made from rice flour and stuffed with a mixture of coconut, jaggery, and cardamom. The dough is shaped into small dumplings and steamed, resulting in a chewy, slightly sweet bite that is comforting and filling. Kolukattai is often prepared during festivals and celebrations, making it an integral part of Puducherry’s culinary traditions.
- Puducherry Pastries– Puducherry is home to some of the most delightful French-inspired pastries, thanks to its colonial history. Croissants, éclairs, and madeleines can be found in local bakeries, each one carefully crafted with a French touch. The buttery, flaky texture of these pastries’ pairs perfectly with a cup of freshly brewed coffee, making them a perfect breakfast or afternoon treat.
- Pineapple and Jackfruit Stew – A unique dessert native to Puducherry, this sweet stew combines pineapple and jackfruit with jaggery, coconut milk, and a hint of cardamom. The rich sweetness of the fruits is complemented by the smoothness of coconut milk, creating a dessert that is both indulgent and refreshing. It’s a perfect way to end a meal or enjoy a light afternoon treat.
Advertisement:
Add Comment