This tender, aromatic semi-gravy dish is an excellent centrepiece for beef-eating Tamils during Tamil New Year and Ponggal.

Caste-Hindus in Malaysia often denigrate beef-eating, as cows are perceived as sacred in Hinduism. However, this has led to the marginalisation of beef-eating Paraiyars—a group indigenous to Tamil Nadu—in West Malaysia.

Learn about the many sweet and salty snacks commonly devoured during the festive season. Illustrations by Veshalini Naidu.

A deep, dark, complex mutton dish to impress your guests on festive occasions.

This version of Malaysian-Indian chicken curry uses store-bought curry powder such as Baba’s, but is taken up a notch with extra spices.