Delicious Indian Banana Leaf Thali

Have you ever heard of the somewhat famous banana leaf thali of Tamil Nadu and Kerala

(South India where there are an abundance of banana leaves)? Why it isnt more famous I don't know- it should be. Anyway, a thali is a set lunch of rice, flatbread, and curries. A proper thali is sort of like dim sum- the waiters wander around with carts full of pots of curries, rice, and other condiments to replenish your plate.

With a banana leaf thali you sit down, almost always al fresco with a huge banana leaf facing you on the table to serve as your plate. On it is a heap of basmati rice and garnishes of various chutneys (coconut and cilantro being my personal favorites) and pickles. You pick the curries that appeal to you from one of the revolving waiters and off you go with your own banana thali, Madras style. No knives or forks here either, you eat with your right hand (the left hand is considered unclean as it used for washing your body). Indian food is supposed to be felt as well as tasted.

Not sure where the banana leaves are thrown when you are finished, but it must be fly heaven. Finally, Indian meals are the only meals I know of where you expected to wash your hands twice- both before and after eating. And be careful! Curry in Southern India is not at all like the curry in the north. Often based on coconut milk, it is usually fiery hot and soupy. It can run off the banana leaf and on to your clothes, so use plenty of napkins.

Delicious Indian Banana Leaf Thali

By: Dinah Jackson

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