Debate Erupts Over Traditional Indian Food Pairing Practices

Shashi Tharoor Weighs in on Idli Etiquette

Senior Congress leader and parliamentarian Shashi Tharoor has once again taken to social media to express his opinions on a topic dear to his heart: food, specifically the South Indian breakfast staple, idlis. A recent exchange on X (formerly Twitter) showcased his affection for the dish, as well as his high standards for its preparation and presentation.

The conversation began when a social media user shared a picture of idli and tea, which quickly caught Tharoor's attention. In response, he provided a detailed critique that mixed humor, food preferences, and his characteristic writing style. Tharoor's critique centered on the idli's texture, with him remarking that it appeared too dense and lacked the soft, fluffy texture that defines a truly good idli.

According to Tharoor, the ideal idli should be light, snowy white, and delicate rather than chewy or rubbery. He also weighed in on the idea of pairing idli with tea, stating that he prefers to keep the two separate. In his view, tea is best enjoyed alongside a meal or after it rather than as a dipping accompaniment.

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The exchange took a playful turn when the woman revealed that the idli was homemade and that it was her first attempt at preparing the dish. Acknowledging that it may not have been "A-grade," she jokingly invited herself to breakfast at Tharoor's home so she could experience what he considers an authentic idli served with sambar.

The interaction amused many social media users, who soon joined the discussion with their own views on idli etiquette. Some users agreed with Tharoor, calling the practice of dunking idli into chai "sacrilegious" and arguing that fluffy idlis are best enjoyed with coconut chutney while tea is served separately.