Most people planning a trip to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands have in mind pristine beaches, crystal clear waters and thrilling adventures. Even so, you probably didn’t know that the islands are also a paradise for food lovers. Andaman’s local dishes are a rich culinary heritage of Indian, Burmese and coastal flavors with spices, fresh seafood and tropical ingredients making every meal a memorable experience.
Andaman’s food scene is as seen exciting, with mouthwatering seafood delicacies and unique island specialties. The process of cooking different foods in various ways proves to be endless, whether it’s if you’re enjoying a just grilled fish by the beach or a yummy coconut prawn curry. Do not leave the chance to taste these flavors if you are planning your getaway. If you wish to have your vacation exciting and fun along with delicious food, check out our Andaman and Nicobar Tour Packages and Andaman and Nicobar Holiday Packages.
Here are the 8 Local Dishes You Must Try in Andaman
1. Fish Curry
Fish Curry is a staple in Andaman households and a comforting and flavorful dish. Slow cooked in a fragrant coconut based curry with mustard seeds, curry leaves and island spices, fresh fish is cooked. Steamed rice goes perfectly well with this rich and creamy texture and it is a must try for those who want to taste the authentic Andaman flavors.
2. Lobster Thermidor
If you are a seafood lover, then Lobster Thermidor is a treat for you, as it consists of succulent lobster meat cooked in a mixture of cheese, butter, mustard and white sauce. It is stuffed back into the lobster shell and baked to perfection to make a luxurious and indulgent dish. It’s a perfect choice for a special dinner found in many beachside restaurants.
3. Amritsari Kulcha with Chole
This North Indian delicacy is now part of the hearts of the Andaman people. A crispy, stuffed bread with spiced potatoes or paneer and a tangy, spicy chickpea curry (Chole) is Amritsari Kulcha. Rich, flavorful curry combined with crispy, buttery bread makes it an excellent, filling meal for any traveler.
4. Coconut Prawn Curry
Coconut Prawn Curry is a signature Andaman dish with the best of coastal flavors. Simmered in a creamy coconut milk gravy with aromatic spices, turmeric and curry leaves, juicy prawns. The outcome is a sweet and spicy dish that is best served with steamed rice for a wholesome and tasty meal.
5. Tandoori Fish
Tandoori Fish is smoked and flavorful dish and marinated fresh local fish in a blend of yogurt, spices and herbs, before putting it into a traditional clay oven (tandoor). The grilled fish has a slightly charred and juicy texture, with the bold spices that are a favorite among locals and tourists who enjoy grilled seafood.
6. Andaman Special Crab Curry
Andaman Special Crab Curry is a seafood lover’s dream: fresh crabs cooked in a rich, spicy and tangy gravy. The curry is rich with island spices, coconut and tomatoes to make a bold and flavorful dish that is good with rice or Indian bread. The curry is infused into the juicy crab meat; every bite is memorable.
7. Squid Fry
Squid Fry is a simple yet a very tasty dish, which can be served as an appetizer or as a snack. Fresh squid rings are marinated in a mix of local spices, coated with a very light coating of the flour or semolina, and fried till golden and crispy. This dish is served with a side of tangy chutney or lemon wedges and is best enjoyed with a cold drink by the beach.
8. Banana Leaf Fish Curry
Banana Leaf Fish Curry is a traditional coastal delicacy where fresh fish is marinated and that spice mixture, coconut paste and herbs, wrapped in banana leaves and slowly cooked. Steaming the fish in the leaf allows the fish to absorb the aromatic flavours of the leaf and results in a tender, juicy, and fragrant dish which really captures the essence of Andaman cuisine.
Conclusion:
Just like there are many other places to explore in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the culinary delights are as exciting as the beaches and adventure spots of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The islands are rich with seafood curries and smoky tandoori delicacies, and blend of flavors that come from the diverse cultural influences. Whether it’s a luxurious Lobster Thermidor or a comforting Fish Curry, every dish is a story of hospitality – all the ingredients suggest that food is in vogue in this region.
If you are planning a trip to Andaman, a visit to its local cuisine is incomplete; the best way to experience its local cuisine is by getting into its culture. Cliastic your Andaman and Nicobar Tour Packages and Andaman and Nicobar Holiday Packages to fetch thrilling The andaman and nicobar holiday packages and you would get an incredible vacation of all three parts fun, easy and yummy. Your taste buds are in for a feast like never before!