1. Kori Gassi – Mangalorean Chicken Curry
A traditional chicken curry from the Bunt community of Mangalore, Kori Gassi is a coconut-based delight enriched with tamarind, spices, and served with rice crepes or neer dosa. This spicy and tangy curry brings the warmth of Mangalorean spices to the table and is a must-try for chicken lovers.
2. Neer Dosa – The Light and Fluffy Dosa
Translating to “water dosa,” Neer Dosa is a thin, crisp rice crepe made with a watery rice batter. Unlike traditional dosas, Neer Dosa has no fermentation process and is a perfect accompaniment to chutneys, curries, and even jaggery for a sweet twist. Light and airy, this dosa is a favorite in coastal Karnataka.
3. Chicken Curry, Karnataka Style
This chicken curry is simmered in a tomato-coconut paste spiced with local seasonings. Rich and flavorful, it’s best served with rice or rotis. Its taste is distinct from other South Indian chicken curries, thanks to Karnataka’s own spice mix.
4. Mysore Masala Dosa – A Spicy Twist to the Classic
Mysore Masala Dosa is a crispy rice dosa with a spicy red chutney layer, stuffed with a delicious potato masala. This dosa variety originated in Mysore and has become a symbol of Karnataka’s cuisine. Paired with sambar and coconut chutney, this dish is globally loved.
5. Alugedde – Spiced Mashed Potatoes
Alugedde is a mashed potato dish seasoned with spices, tomatoes, and black gram. This quick and easy recipe makes for a satisfying meal and is typically paired with soft dosas or rotis.
6. Mysore Pak – A Classic Festive Sweet
Created from gram flour, ghee, sugar, and water, Mysore Pak is a soft, melt-in-your-mouth treat famous across India. Originating from the royal kitchens of Mysore, it’s particularly popular during Diwali and other festive occasions.
7. Kane Rava Fry – Karnataka Style Fried Fish
Coastal Karnataka’s specialty, Kane Rava Fry, features ladyfish marinated in spicy red chili paste, coated in semolina, and fried to golden perfection. Crispy on the outside and juicy inside, this dish is an ideal appetizer or snack.
8. Coorgi Pandi Curry – Spicy Pork Curry
Coorg, known for its coffee plantations, also brings unique flavors to the table with its Pandi Curry, a tangy and aromatic pork dish. Made with roasted spices, garlic, and coriander leaves, it is a delicious main course typically enjoyed with steamed rice or rice balls.
9. Bisi Bele Bath – Karnataka’s Comfort Food
Directly translating to “hot lentil rice,” Bisi Bele Bath is a classic one-pot meal from Karnataka. Made with rice, lentils, vegetables, and coconut, this dish resembles a khichdi but offers a more complex flavor profile with tangy, spicy, and sweet notes.
10. Bale Kai Palya – A Light Banana Curry
Made with banana, coconut, and light spices, Bale Kai Palya is a traditional Karnataka dish that combines the flavors of fruit and spices. It’s versatile enough to serve as both a side and a sweet dish when paired with jaggery.
11. Mavinakayi Nellikai Chitranna – Raw Mango and Amla Rice
This tangy rice dish features raw mangoes, amla (Indian gooseberry), and a medley of aromatic spices. It’s a seasonal specialty enjoyed for its unique blend of sourness and spice, perfect for spring and summer meals.
Karnataka’s cuisine offers a rich exploration of diverse tastes and regional specialties, from coastal Mangalore to the hilly Coorg and urban Bangalore. Whether you crave savory dosas, spicy curries, or sweet treats, these dishes promise a delightful journey through Karnataka’s culinary landscape.
