Forest department pavilion offers variety tribal fare at ‘Ente Keralam’ expo in Idukki

Have you ever tasted Naruneendi (Indian sarsaparilla) tea, butter beans momos and ragi leddu? The Forest and Wildlife department’s pavilion at the ‘Ente Keralam’ expo, which is underway at Vazhathope Government Vocational Higher Secondary School ground in Idukki, offers the public a chance to enjoy the taste of various types of delicious tribal food items. According to officials, the stall is witnessing a rush of visitors looking to taste these delicacies.

The expo marks the fourth anniversary of the Left Democratic Front (LDF) government in the State. The Munnar wildlife division and the Chinnar wildlife sanctuary has partnered to set up the pavilion, officials stated.

The Naruneedi tea on offer is a traditional drink among tribal communities, and butter beans are cultivated inside the forests; the butter bean momos are another offering that is attracting visitors.

Also on sale at the pavilion is chama rice payasam (millet payasam), bamboo rice payasam (mulayari payasam), ragi leddu, and ragi milk. Tapioca, colocasia, sweet potato, purple yam, ragi vada, bird’s-eye chilli chutney, fish curry, and butter bean chicken curry are also put up. Various items made from forest produce, such as honey, lemon grass oil, ragi powder, turmeric, sherbet, Marayur jaggery, ginger tea powder, and veld grape pickles, are also available at the pavilion.

Water Resources Minister Roshy Augustine inaugurated the exhibition on April 29. The expo will conclude on May 5.