Mangalorean Magic: 5 Must-Try Dishes When In The City

Mangalore, a picturesque coastal city in southwestern India, is a food lover's paradise. Known for its rich culinary heritage, this charming city offers a delightful fusion of flavours, combining elements of South Indian, Konkan, and even Arabian cuisines. From spicy seafood dishes to delectable vegetarian delights, Mangalore has something to tantalise every palate. If you find yourself in this coastal gem, here are 5 must-try dishes to take your taste buds on an unforgettable journey.

Chicken Ghee Roast

Chicken Ghee Roast is made by slow-cooking marinated chicken in ghee and a blend of aromatic spices that include cumin, coriander, curry leaves, garlic, and ginger. The marinade is made with yoghurt, spices, and Byadgi red chilli paste, which gives the dish its distinct fiery red colour and bold flavour. The dish is typically served with neer dosa, paratha, or rice. Variations of the dish can be made with shrimp or paneer, which offers delicious alternatives to the traditional chicken dish.

Neer Dosa

Neer Dosa consists of delicate paper-thin rice crepes, served with a flavourful chicken curry. To make Neer Dosa, rice batter, water, and a pinch of salt are mixed to create a soft, slightly chewy batter. This dish combines the dosas' softness with the chicken curry's richness, providing a delightful blend of textures and flavours. Neer Dosa is a staple in Mangalorean cuisine, often enjoyed during special occasions, and can also be prepared with alternative proteins.

Chicken Sukka

Chicken Sukka is a delicious dish made by cooking chicken with a blend of aromatic spices such as dried red chillies, coriander seeds, cumin seeds, garlic, ginger, and grated coconut, which gives it a rich and complex flavour. The chicken is sautéed in coconut oil until tender, and grated coconut is added for texture. This dish is known for its dry consistency and is typically served with rice. Chicken Sukka is a staple on special occasions and reflects the region's spicy and coconut-based culinary traditions. Variations of this dish may include seafood or mushrooms to cater to different dietary preferences.

Kori Gassi

Kori Gassi is a spicy chicken curry that is famous for its delicious flavour profile. Marinated chicken is cooked in creamy coconut milk gravy infused with spices such as coriander, cumin, dried red chillies, tamarind, garlic, and ginger. This delightful dish, which is usually served with rice or neer dosa, strikes a perfect balance between heat and sweetness.

Anjal Fry

Anjal Fry is known for its delicious seer fish (anjal) fillets. The fish is marinated in a blend of spices, including red chilli powder, turmeric, ginger-garlic paste, and tamarind. After marinating, the fish is deep-fried to a crispy golden brown while still maintaining its tender interior. The dish is usually served with rice, neer dosa, or simple accompaniments like lemon and onions. During festive occasions, it represents the region's seafood-rich culinary tradition and is a local favourite. There are also variations of this dish that use other seafood options, which offer diverse choices for seafood enthusiasts.