As the summer sun started blazing across the Indian subcontinent, there’s a universal yearning for food that is light, refreshing, and cooling. In Kolkata and the vast expanse of South India, where the heat often becomes overwhelming, the need for dishes that offer relief and comfort is more crucial than ever. Tamarind Restaurant, known for its delightful South Indian cuisines, is presenting a collection of Summer Saviour Dishes designed to refresh and rejuvenate you during these scorching months.
In both Kolkata and South India, the summer months are marked by intense heat and humidity. The air feels thick, and the relentless sun can leave you feeling drained. This is the time when people crave food that isn’t heavy, spicy, or oily. Instead, they long for lighter fare that cools the body, hydrates, and provides relief from the oppressive heat. The foods must not only nourish but also refresh the senses, making the season more bearable.
At Tamarind Restaurant, the Summer Saviour Dishes have been thoughtfully curated to cater to the needs of this season. These dishes are not only light and cooling but are also gentle on the stomach, promoting gut health and ensuring that the body remains well-hydrated and energized throughout the day.
Dishes that beat the heat are, Beans Poriyal, this simple yet flavorful dish is a combination of fresh beans sautéed with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and a pinch of salt. With minimal spices and a natural, clean taste, Beans Poriyal is perfect for cooling down on a hot day. It’s rich in fiber and easy on the stomach, making it an excellent choice for promoting digestive health. Buttermilk, is a classic summer drink, especially in South India, and Tamarind’s refreshing buttermilk with mint and coriander is a drink that not only helps cool the body but also aids in digestion. The mint and coriander add a fragrant twist, and the drink’s probiotic properties are great for the gut, ensuring you’re hydrated and feeling light. Mutton Stew with Appam, for those craving a more substantial meal, the Mutton Stew with Appam is the perfect dish. The stew, made with tender mutton, is cooked in a mild coconut-based gravy with subtle spices, making it a flavorful yet light option. Paired with soft appam (a type of rice pancake), this dish is satisfying without being overly heavy. It provides the comfort of a hearty meal while keeping your cool. Tawa Fish, a beloved dish across South India, Tawa Fish is made with fresh fish lightly seasoned with turmeric, salt, and a dash of lemon juice before being grilled on a hot tawa (griddle). The minimal use of spices ensures that it remains light and easy to digest, while the grilled fish offers a delightful smoky flavor that perfectly complements the summer vibes.
Curd Rice, which is a quintessential South Indian dish, especially for summer is made with rice and cooling yogurt, often garnished with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and a few mild spices. Curd rice not only cools the body but also aids in digestion, making it the ideal food for hot days when you need something soothing and refreshing. Lemon Rice, with its tangy and zesty flavor, is another summer favorite. Made with cooked rice, fresh lemon juice, and tempered with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and green chilies, Lemon Rice provides a burst of refreshing flavors. It’s light, tangy, and packed with vitamin C, which helps keep you energized and hydrated in the summer heat. Tamarind Rice. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy the subtle sourness of tamarind. Tamarind rice, made with cooked rice, tamarind pulp, and a few mild spices, is a cooling and light dish that is easy on the stomach. The tanginess from the tamarind is refreshing, making it a favorite for summer lunches. Tomato Pappu, is a comforting dish made with tomatoes, lentils, and a hint of turmeric. The tangy and mildly spiced flavors are ideal for hot weather, and the dish is great for boosting the digestive system. Its light yet packed with nutrients, perfect for a healthy and cooling summer meal. Manidakai Pappu is a dish made with green beans and lentils, is another fantastic option. It’s light, mildly spiced, and incredibly easy to digest. Like other dishes at Tamarind, this one is full of flavors that refresh and cool the body, making it a must-try for the summer season.
“During the scorching summer in South and East India, we all crave food that is simple, refreshing, and light. Spicy dishes can feel too heavy, so we need meals that cool the body and keep us hydrated. That’s why buttermilk with mint and coriander, curd rice, and tawa fish are perfect for this season. These dishes don’t just fill the stomach but also bring comfort and relief from the heat. Good food should not only nourish but also refresh, helping us stay cool even on the hottest days.” Said, Gautam Purkayastha, Owner of Tamarind Restaurant
Tamarind Restaurant’s Summer Saviour Dishes provide the perfect solution to staying cool, healthy, and comfortable during the summer months in Kolkata and South India. By combining simple, refreshing ingredients with minimal spices, these dishes are designed to hydrate, soothe, and refresh your body and these dishes are made to offer comfort and relief from the heat.
