Kanji, chammanthi, and mango pickle: Kerala’s comfort meal takes over Google trends in 2024
In the age of gourmet meals and Instagram-worthy platings, why did this humble dishes stand out?
In the age of gourmet meals and Instagram-worthy platings, why did this humble dishes stand out?
In the age of gourmet meals and Instagram-worthy platings, why did this humble dishes stand out?
In a world of culinary reinventions and fusion food trends, sometimes the simplest meals strike a chord with millions. This year, the classic Kerala comfort meal—kanji, chammanthi, and mango pickle—claimed its spot among India's most searched recipes, as revealed by Google's Year in Search 2024 report.
The heart of Kerala on a plate
For the uninitiated, Kanji is a humble rice gruel. It pairs beautifully with chammanthi, a spicy coconut chutney pounded with green chilies and shallots, and the tangy kick of mango pickle. This combination is not merely a dish; it’s the essence of Kerala's culinary tradition. It’s an emotion deeply rooted in Malayali culture, a warm embrace for the soul in every spoonful. It speaks of rainy evenings, lazy Sunday lunches, and the comforting presence of a grandmother’s touch in the kitchen.
In the age of gourmet meals and Instagram-worthy platings, why did this humble dishes stand out? The answer lies in its timeless simplicity and its ability to evoke memories of home.
Kanji’s dual identity
Interestingly, searches for Kanji revealed its dual culinary identities across India. While the South Indian version is a comforting rice porridge, the North Indian Kanji refers to a fermented drink made with black carrots, beetroot, and mustard seeds. This probiotic beverage, rich in antioxidants, has its own fan base for its tangy, spicy, and slightly sweet flavour.
While the North Indian Kanji, a fermented drink made with black carrots, beetroot, and mustard seeds, has its own following, search trends leaned heavily toward the South Indian classic. Trending queries like "Nombu Kanji recipe in Tamil" (+140%) and and "Kanji rice" (+80%) highlight a strong interest in Kanji as a hearty, everyday meal. These searches point to a deep love for Kanji as a simple, nourishing meal, whether as a staple during Ramadan fasting or a go-to comfort food. Even searches like "Rice Kanji benefits" reflect its enduring role as a wholesome and comforting dish in South Indian kitchens.
India’s culinary curiosity in 2024
India’s food search trends in 2024 were a mix of innovation and tradition. While the Porn Star Martini—a cheeky cocktail with bold flavors—topped the charts, timeless treasures like Mango Pickle, Ugadi Pachadi, and Dhaniya Panjiri also made waves. These searches highlighted the nation’s deep-rooted love for festive and nostalgic recipes.
Top 10 most searched recipes in India (2024):
- Porn Star Martini
- Mango Pickle
- Dhaniya Panjiri
- Ugadi Pachadi
- Charnamrit
- Ema Datshi
- Flat White
- Kanji
- Shankarpali
- Chammanthi
Recipes that stirred conversations
- Porn Star Martini: This bold cocktail ruled the search charts, sparking curiosity and debate. Its fruity, tangy flavour profile, combined with a cheeky name, made it a hit among cocktail enthusiasts.
- Ema Datshi: This Bhutanese dish went viral after Bollywood star Deepika Padukone raved about it. Made with chilli peppers and cheese, it’s a fiery comfort food that struck a chord with spice-loving Indians.
- Dhaniya Panjiri: A Janmashtami favourite, this sweet and nutty dish is often prepared as prasad for Lord Krishna. It’s quick to make and brimming with ghee and dry fruits, a combination that delighted festival-goers.
- Ugadi Pachadi: A Telugu New Year essential, this dish symbolizes life’s varied flavours with its mix of neem flowers, jaggery, mango, and tamarind. Its festive significance drove its popularity in 2024.
A global culinary playground
India wasn’t alone in its quest for diverse flavours. Globally, the most searched recipes showcased an eclectic mix of sweet, savoury, and experimental creations. From Olympic Chocolate Muffins and Tanghulu (candied fruit skewers) to Chia Water and Viral Cucumber Salad, food lovers across the globe sought out recipes that blended indulgence and health.
As the year winds down, one thing is certain: food remains a universal language, connecting us through shared memories and bold experiments. Whether it’s the warmth of a simple Kanji meal or the excitement of trying a new cocktail, 2024 reminded us of the joy and comfort that a great recipe can bring.