My real fascination was in the Atil Kone (kitchen), where my Amma, Krishnabai Bangera, created her culinary magic.
She was known across our extended family and neighbourhood for her cooking, feeding an army of people almost every day. My mother does not remember many days when it was only her parents and siblings at home. There were cousins, friends, uncles and aunts who came and went, and a few who stayed for days. My superwoman Amma was always ready to feed them all.
Her touch made the simplest saar, gassi and kajipu taste heavenly. My mum, Nishi Salian, cooks with the same flavour and love, and she is my primary source as I document these recipes.
Every home, or illa, has its own slightly different version. That is why I do not call Pulimunchi Kitchen the definitive Mangalorean recipe website. It is a collection of Mangalorean home recipes dedicated to two culinary magicians, Amma and Mum, who passed down this priceless treasure box.