Our thoughts and best wishes are with our Indian Member’s, staff, families and their community. In this edition, we chat to Chef Pradosh M.D., the Executive Chef at Karma Chakra in Kerala, India. Chef Pradosh has been with us since 2017.
What dish got you through 2020?
My absolute favourite dish for 2020 was Karimeen Pollichathu. The main ingredients in this dish are coconut milk and onion paste. The medley of spices blend beautifully with coconut milk. The result is a dish that absolutely soothes your soul! So very much needed in the year we’ve had!
What are some of the ingredient trends in India? Are you experimenting with any new ingredients?
In Kerala, the biggest ingredient trend of 2020 was Coconuts! Coconut, whether used freshly grated or as dried pieces and the sweet taste of coconut milk is unique to Kerala cuisine. Coconut is the perfect complement to traditional spicy Kerala dishes like Karimeen fish fry and Kappa! Luckily, there is plenty of coconut available in this beautiful state of Kerala.
With regards to new ingredients, I’ve become very partial to Karimeen Pollichathu (recipe below). I can’t stress enough how much I like the balance of flavours in this dish. As for new ingredients, I am continuing to experiment with coconut in all forms – in my curries, chutneys and desserts.
What are some of the current health and lifestyle trends in India?
In my opinion, the current health and lifestyle trends appear to be home workouts and adopting healthier diets. More people have been cooking at home with less oil and also consuming less sugary snacks and drinks. Everyone wants this year to be very different from the last year. We are more prepared to deal with the ongoing pandemic. We know that eating healthy and exercising more definitely helps. Healthier habits will also lower the incidences of obesity and diabetes. Consuming the right amount of calories and being active contributes to a happier mental state.
Looking forward, any food trends you see happening?
Yes! Sustainable cooking, non-sugar foods, and wood-fire cooking. These trends are already gaining attention and I believe they will become even more popular over the next year.
Thank you Chef Pradosh – we look forward to making your recipe below!
Karimeen Pollichathu Recipe
Karimeen is the green chromide fish, a species belonging to cichlid fish from the freshwater and backwaters in south India. It’s said to be a ‘lip smacking’ delicacy not only for the locals but also for folk in neighbouring states. Various dishes can be prepared with Karimeen and some of the most prominent include 1) Karimeen Fry, Karimeen Molly and Karimeen Pollichathu! Indeed, Karimeen Pollichathu is considered a standout dish of Kerala, particularly because of its appearance and the unique way of cooking makes it to stand apart in its preparation
