Dubai: Kerala’s humble jackfruit is vying with Arabia’s classic dates for pride of place on Dubai’s Iftar tables this year. Chefs and country cooks are using a blend of both the succulent fruits to churn out various dishes. In fact, there’s an aromatic spread of both in all Malayalee restaurants across the Emirate.
Jackfruit cutlets, chakka ada, dates pathiri, broccoli rose and spinach samosa have takers in hoards. In addition to the time-tested and traditional ware, the Malabari presence with 35 subtle, strong and spicy dishes is a huge draw.
Among the favorites are unnakaya, stuffed banana, banana roast, meat pathiri, fish pathiri, fish ada, chicken ada, rice ada, chicken roll, chicken cutlet, pakka vada, chilly bajji, potato bajji, semiya payasam and the delicious tharikanji. It’s not just the Malayalees who make a beeline for these goodies. Foreign nationals are also seen hanging out here, savoring the delicacies.
Another hit item is the Iftar kit replete with all delicious items. Satheesh, Kozhikode-native and owner of the joint Calicut Notebook, says business is on a high and the number of customers coming to them seeking Iftar specialties is on the rise. There are families who buy up a whole lot of delicacies at once, because each dish sends them on trip down memory lane when thoughts of home and homemade dishes well up.
In every way, while Iftar dishes are being relished, enterprising businessmen are making hay while the night lights shine.
Read more: Eight dishes every foodie must try in Kannur
