Travelling by train in India is not only a convenient mode of transportation but also an opportunity to savour the diverse and delectable cuisines that the country has to offer. South Indian cuisine, with its rich flavours, aromatic spices, and healthy ingredients, online food order in train, is a favourite among many. Fortunately, you can now relish authentic South Indian food right on your train journey. In this article, we will explore the variety of healthy and tasty South Indian dishes available to enhance your train travel experience.
The Essence of South Indian Cuisine
South Indian cuisine is renowned for its use of fresh ingredients, aromatic spices, and a perfect balance of flavours. It is characterized by a variety of dishes that are both healthy and delicious. Some key features of South Indian cuisine include:
Rice Dominance: Rice is the staple food of South India. Various rice-based dishes, such as idli, dosa, and biryani, are prevalent and cherished by locals and travellers alike.
Coconut Love: Coconut is an integral ingredient in South Indian cuisine. It is used in various forms, including grated coconut, coconut milk, and coconut oil, adding a rich, creamy texture to many dishes.
Spice Infusion: South Indian food is known for its bold and spicy flavours. Mustard seeds, curry leaves, red and green chilies, and tamarind are commonly used spices that give the cuisine its unique taste.
Healthy Ingredients: South Indian dishes often include nutritious ingredients like lentils, vegetables, and fresh herbs. These elements make the cuisine not only tasty but also healthy.
Popular South Indian Dishes to Relish on Your Train Journey
Idli and Sambar: Start your culinary journey with soft and fluffy idlis served with piping hot sambar and coconut chutney. Idli is a steamed rice cake, and sambar is a flavorful lentil-based vegetable stew. This combination is a classic South Indian breakfast.
Dosa: Crispy and thin dosas are a favourite among all age groups. They can be filled with a variety of fillings. Such as potato masala, paneer, or even chocolate for a sweet twist. Served with coconut chutney and sambar, dosas make for a fulfilling meal.
Vada: Enjoy crunchy vadas, which are savoury fried doughnuts made from urad dal (black gram). They are often served with coconut chutney or as vada sambar. Where they are soaked in sambar for a delightful fusion of flavours.
Biryani: South Indian biryani is a fragrant and flavorful rice dish cooked with aromatic spices, tender pieces of meat or vegetables, and saffron. The blend of spices and long-grain basmati rice makes it a delectable choice.
Pongal: Pongal is a comforting dish made from rice and lentils, cooked together and seasoned with black pepper, cumin, and ghee. It is often garnished with cashews and curry leaves for added flavour.
Rasam: A tangy and spicy tomato-based soup, rasam is not only delicious but also believed to have medicinal properties. It is a perfect choice to soothe your taste buds during your journey.
Coconut Chutney: A versatile accompaniment, coconut chutney pairs well with most South Indian dishes. Its creamy texture and mild spiciness enhance the overall dining experience.
How to Order South Indian Food on Trains?
Indian Railways has made it convenient for passengers to order South Indian food while travelling by train. Here’s how you can do it:
E-catering Services: Indian Railways offers e-catering services through various online platforms and mobile apps. Passengers can browse the menu,check pnr status, place orders, and make payments digitally.
Pre-Booked Meals: You can pre-book your South Indian meal at the time of ticket reservation or later through the IRCTC website or app. This ensures that your meal is ready at your desired station during the journey.
On-Board Pantry Services: Many long-distance trains have on-board pantry services that offer a limited but tasty selection of South Indian dishes.
Local Vendors at Stations: At major railway stations, you can find local vendors and food stalls that serve authentic South Indian food. You can purchase these items and enjoy them on the train.
Health Benefits of South Indian Cuisine
South Indian cuisine is not only mouthwatering but also packed with health benefits:
Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: The use of lentils, vegetables, and whole grains in South Indian dishes provides essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals.
Low in Fat: South Indian cooking often involves minimal use of oil or ghee, making it a healthier choice compared to some other Indian cuisines.
Fermented Foods: Fermented items like idli and dosa are easier to digest and promote gut health due to their probiotic properties.
Spice Benefits: Spices like turmeric, curry leaves, and mustard seeds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that contribute to overall well-being.
When you’re travelling by train in India, don’t miss the opportunity to savour the delightful South Indian cuisine. From the fluffy idlis to the crispy dosas and flavorful biryanis. South Indian food offers a plethora of choices for both vegetarians and non-vegetarians. With the convenience of e-catering services and pre-booked meals, you can enjoy these delectable dishes right in your train compartment. South Indian cuisine not only tantalizes your taste buds but also offers numerous health benefits. Making it a wholesome choice for your journey. So, sit back, relax, and relish the flavours of South India as the scenic landscapes pass by outside your train window.