This past week, a group of us researched London’s “Little India”, otherwise known as Southall. Of course, me being the biggest foodaholic there is, I volunteered to research and try the Indian foods. Not only was it delicious, but also very informative/interesting!
As Indian food has developed, it has become heavily influenced by different religions, cultural choices and interactions, and other historical incidents. Today, traditional Indian food varies extremely and encompasses many different spices and herbs that have helped shape their international relations.
A normal Indian food diet consists of legumes, vegetables, fruits, grains, dairy, honey, fish, eggs and meat. Most Indian people are vegetarians as the vast majority of Indians today are part of Hinduism or Jaoism religions. Their food has been classified into 3 categories: Sattvic, Rajasic, and Tamasic. These three qualities are universal and equally necessary to maintain our psychological balance.
Sattvic food is uncontaminated and should not spread evil or disease in the world. However, its presence must purify the surroundings. Thus, when an individual consumes such a food, he/she must feel that he/she is eating pure, healthy, nutritious, and clean food such as fruits and veggies.
Rajasic foods generate more fire, outward motion, creativity, aggression, and passion. Any canned, sweetened fruit, all fermented food, all bottled fruit juices are rajasic. Sattvic food can be turned into rajasic when eaten too hot, too cold, or too spicy. Some of the rajasic foods include avocado, beans, lentils, chili, and chocolate.
Tamasic foods increase inner darkness and confusion. They are said to slow us down, depress us and enhance inertia. These foods include fast food, fried food and any frozen foods. (aka my favorite type).
Food also differs across india´s diverse regions as a result of variation in local culture, geographical location and economics; it also depends on which fruits and veggies are ripe. Some regions that have been replicated in the United Kingdom (specifically London) are Delhi, Manipur and Punjab.
- Delhi: once capital of mughal empire and was the birthplace of mughal cuisine. Noted for street food… Punjabi cuisine is common bc a lot of Punjabi communities… street food like Kababs, kachauri, chaat, indian sweets, Indian ice cream…
- Manipur: usually features spicy foods that use chilli pepper.. staple diet consists of rice, veggies and fish.
- Punjab: known for its diverse range of dishes; mostly inspired by central asian and mughlai cuisines since it was the enterng spot for Muslim invaders; most popular elements of Anglo’Indian cuisine (i.e.: tandoori foods, naan, pakoras and veggie dishes with paneer, tikka masala).
Can you tell I’m hungry?
xoxo,
PJ
Pajama Joan 