THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan visited the food court at Kanakakunnu Sooryakanthi Auditorium and inquired about one particular dish, the 'Ramassery Idli.' What exactly is the Ramassery Idli and how did it become the king of Idlis? The Ramassery Idli is a unique and delicious dish that hails from a small hamlet in Palakkad, Kerala, named after the place. It is renowned for its distinct taste and shape, which sets it apart from traditional idlis.

Ramassery Idlis have a resemblance to dosas and are known for their unique shape and flavour. They are distinct from the typical idlis found in South India. What makes these idlis special is their shape, texture, preparation method, and taste. They have a meshed pattern on their underside due to the unique way they are prepared, and their soft and fluffy texture provides a velvety sensation on the palate. They leave behind a delightful, grainy aftertaste.

The origin story of Ramassery Idlis dates back over 200 years. Legend has it that several Mudaliar families migrated to Kerala from places like Tirupur, Kanchipuram, and Thanjavur in Tamil Nadu many decades ago. They came in search of work and settled in Ramassery, Palakkad. The men were weavers, while the women were skilled cooks. It was in these circumstances that the unique preparation of these idlis began. Today, only a few Mudaliar families in Ramassery are involved in making this famous dish.

As part of Keralayam 2023, the Chief Minister visited a food stall in Sooryakanthi to inaugurate the branding of 10 Kerala dishes under the banner 'Kerala Menu: Unlimited.' These dishes include Ramassery Idli, Porotta and Beef, Boli and Payasam, Kappa and Meen Curry, Kuttanadan Karimeen Pollichathu, Thalassery Biryani, Mulayari Payasam, Vanasundari Chicken, Puttu Kadala, and Karkatakakanji. The aim is to promote Kerala's healthy food traditions and the hospitality of the Malayalees as a brand.Present at the event were Minister GR Anil, Food Mela Chairman AA Rahim MP, OS Ambika MLA, Media Committee Chairman RS Babu, and others.