Authentic Iyer dishes from the villages of Palakkad to the streets of Mumbai. The word Palaaharam is a mix of two words: Pala and Aharam. Pala means variety in Tamil, while Aharam refers to consumption. While speaking of Palaaharam, a varied evening snack spread, the first thing that comes to the mind is a plate of steaming hot idlis or dosas served with sambar and chutney. While they are certainly the most common tiffin items, the spread also includes other varieties and accompaniments. Pazha Bhajji/ Banana Fritters Ripened bananas dipped in batter and deep fried; served with traditional coconut chutney. When served with a cup of tea or coffee, you’ll call it simplicity at its best! Ammani Kuzhakattai with Puliinji Kuzhakattai refers to any form of steamed dumplings. In Ammani Kozhakattai, rice flour is mixed with spices, rolled into miniature dumplings and steamed. It is served with a sauce called puliinji/pulikatchal. Tamarind Sevai A tangy mix of string hoppers served with papadams and vadams. Appam and Veg Stew Steamed pancakes served with mixed vegetable gravy cooked with ginger and coconut. Thayir Vadai The southern equivalent of a dahi bhalla, made from smoothly ground lentils with peppercorns and green chillies. Sweet Payar My grandmother’s age-old recipe that entails steaming cow peas with jaggery and coconut; a perfect pairing for an evening snack soiree. Beverages Kaapi How can we not have filter kaapi!! Rumour has it that the coffee served in each Tamilian household is different from one another. Tea Green, white, black or pure masala chai options.