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Fresh catch from the ocean in Bengaluru

On any given Saturday morning in the tree-lined avenues of Kammanahalli, an observant passerby will notice a distinct ritual playing out near Mangalore Fish Stall, known for sourcing fish from the Konkan coast

Fresh catch from the ocean in Bengaluru

In Bengaluru's vibrant Kammanahalli neighborhood, a ritual unfolds each Saturday morning near Mangalore Fish Stall. Shoppers, both male and female, scrutinize fresh seafood, seeking indicators of freshness such as bright eyes, firm flesh, and the scent of the ocean. The Konkan coast, known for its oceanic bounty, supplies this fresh catch to those who appreciate its flavors.

The Saraswat Brahmin community, both vegetarian and fish-eating, is an anomaly within Bengaluru's diverse population. Their cuisine, pesco-vegetarian, features coconut as a primary ingredient, with recipes passed down from the ancient Saraswati river region. When Kerala's mythic Saraswati dried up around 2000 BCE, people migrated south, settling in coastal Karnataka.

Seeking refuge from the Goa Inquisition in the 16th century, these Saraswat families brought their unique food culture to Bengaluru, adapting it to the local climate and ingredients. Now, Konkanis are prominent in the city, purchasing ingredients at local stores and enjoying dishes like pathrode at places like Namma Kudla.

Written by urgent.news from Hindustan Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.

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