Taste of the South

Did you know that an average sized burger contains approximately 400 calories? Not that it turns any less attractive, even with the number count, but there are healthier alternatives to the fast food. One such is ‘Upsouth’s latest innovation — the ‘Uthly’.

Made from wholesome ingredients — vegetables, grams, spices and pulses without preservatives — it is a modern take on traditional South Indian dishes. But what really sets the ‘Uthly’ apart is that it brings together multiple dishes in one. Chef Manu Nair, the brain behind the dish, says that instead of burger bread, they use rice cakes and there are 7 layers. “The rice base is topped with crispy lettuce, a garden fresh salad, Malabar croquettes, special ‘Upsouth’ sauce, ‘podi’ coated ‘idlis’ and a toasted rice patty on top. Each layer has a distinctive flavour and they complement each other beautifully,” says Manu.

The eatery makes it a point to create at least 4 or 5 new dishes every year. Aside from the ‘Uthly’, they also have ‘Sabudana cheese vada’, which oozes different kinds of processed cheese when you bite into it, a ‘Malabar sandwich’ and more. “The ‘Malabar sandwich’ is a mix between a ‘parotha’ and a Mexican tacos. The ‘parotha’ is stuffed with cutlets, covered in 2 sauces and topped with a salad. This is then grilled and served; the outside is crisp while the inside is soft and spicy,” details Manu.

For dessert, they have taken the South Indian favourite ‘elaneer’ (tender coconut) in the form of mousse. “The tender coconut ‘malai’ (cream) is beaten, like you’d do with egg yolks, to make it creamy. It’s important to beat it quickly as it has to get the right consistency.”

Coming back to the ‘Uthly’, Manu says that it’s nothing like a burger but it’s an alternative.  While burgers are dry, the South Indian rendition is moist and filling. With no fried items in it, it isn’t more than 80 calories. “Usually, youngsters don’t go for traditional food items, they prefer fast food. This is our way of reaching out to them with Indian food,” explains Manu.