I just wonder where to start in a city like Madurai with a personality and lot of history, which basks in the flavors of its historic cuisine and where a story unfolds at every corner?

        The Spice market is a thriving business in Madurai. Keezhamasi street shops resembled a brisk day bazaar.

Mounds of coriander seeds, cloves, cardamom, tamarind, red chilies and garlic were a riot of colour. Spices are known for its aromatic compounds and pungent nature.

        Tamil Nadu is famous for its deep belief that serving food to others is a service to humanity, as it is common in many regions of India. The region has a rich cuisine involving both traditional vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Rice, legumes and lentils are used extensively and flavor is achieved by the blending of various spices. Vegetables and dairy products are essential accompaniments and tamarind is used as the favored souring agent.

        On special occasions, traditional Tamil dishes are prepared in an elaborate and leisurely way and served in traditional style on a banana leaf. The traditional way of eating a meal involves being seated on the floor, having the food served on a banana leaf, and using clean fingers of the right hand to transfer the food to the mouth. After the meal, the fingers are washed, and the banana leaf becomes food for cows. Typically breakfast includes Idli or dosa and rice accompanied by lentil preparations Sambar, Rasam and curd for lunch.