Thali

Synopsis

'I would pretty much cook anything @cookinacurry told me to.' - Mindy Kaling

Selected for Jamie Oliver's Cookbook Club

In Thali Indian cook and social media star Maunika Gowardhan serves up over 80 easy and accessible recipes that show you just how simple it is to create a Thali at home.

The word 'Thali' refers to the way meals are eaten in India; where a mixed selection of delicious dishes are served together on one platter. They offer a wonderful way to experiment with Indian flavours and dishes and to discover the rich and diverse range of this cuisine.

From familiar and classic Indian dishes like Tadka Dal and Matar Paneer alongside less familiar ones such as Pomegranate Spiced Chicken and Konkani Jackfruit Stir-Fry, these recipes will encourage you to explore the varied and vibrant range of food, flavours and textures across the Indian subcontinent, and give you the confidence and skill to create your own perfect thali.

Featuring a thali inspiration section at the end which showcases four stunning regional thalis to recreate at home, as well as menu ideas to help you mix and match recipes as you like, Thali is a joyful and creative approach to Indian home-cooking that will excite and inspire.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Genesis of Thali

* Summary: Thali originated in Western India as a metal plate used for serving food, with the concept later spreading to other regions of the country. The word "thali" is derived from the Sanskrit word "thali," meaning shallow dish.
* Example: In Rajasthan, a traditional thali known as "Marwari Thali" includes dishes like dal bati churma, gatte ki sabzi, and bajra roti.

Chapter 2: The Significance of the Thali

* Summary: Thali symbolizes community, abundance, and hospitality in Indian culture. It represents the sharing of food and the idea of a complete meal. The arrangement of dishes on the thali follows specific rules and symbolism.
* Example: In a South Indian thali, the rice is placed in the center, surrounded by various side dishes, pickles, and chutneys.

Chapter 3: Regional Variations of Thali

* Summary: Thali varies significantly across different regions of India, showcasing the country's culinary diversity. Each region has its own unique dishes, flavors, and ingredients that make up the thali.
* Example: A Gujarati thali includes delicacies like dhokla, Gujarati kadhi, and rotla, while a Bengali thali features dishes like fish curry, luchi, and rosogolla.

Chapter 4: The Ritual of Dining from a Thali

* Summary: Dining from a thali is a ritualistic experience that involves specific customs and etiquette. The dishes are arranged in a clockwise direction, with each dish representing different tastes and elements.
* Example: In a traditional Indian family, the elder members are served first, and guests are treated with utmost hospitality.

Chapter 5: The Art of Cooking a Thali

* Summary: Preparing a thali requires planning, skill, and knowledge of diverse culinary techniques. The menu must consider various tastes, flavors, and nutritional balance.
* Example: A typical North Indian thali may include dishes like paneer butter masala, dal makhani, and naan bread.

Chapter 6: Thali in Contemporary Dining

* Summary: Thali has evolved over the years to adapt to modern dining trends. It is now served in restaurants and catering services as a convenient and wholesome option.
* Example: Thali restaurants offer a variety of regional cuisines, providing customers with a chance to sample different flavors and dishes.

Chapter 7: The Legacy of Thali

* Summary: Thali continues to be an integral part of Indian culture and cuisine. It represents the diversity and richness of the country's culinary heritage and remains a symbol of hospitality and community.
* Example: Thali is often served at weddings, religious festivals, and other special occasions, connecting people through shared meals.