At Vaksana Farms, where the lush greenery and serene environment provide the perfect backdrop for a wholesome lifestyle, the culinary offerings are a testament to the farm’s commitment to health and nutrition. I had the pleasure of sitting down with Kasthuri Ammal, the culinary genius behind the delectable and nutritious dishes served at Vaksana Farms. In this interview, she shares the secrets behind her recipes, the importance of traditional Tamil Nadu cuisine, and the role of food in promoting gut health and overall well-being.

 

 Kasthuri Ammal, can you tell us about your background and how you became involved with Vaksana Farms?

Kasthuri Ammal: I grew up in a small village in Tamil Nadu, where I learned the art of traditional cooking from my mother and grandmother. The recipes and techniques they taught me have been passed down through generations. When my family started Vaksana Farms, I saw an opportunity to bring these traditional dishes to our guests, using fresh, organic ingredients grown right here on the farm.

What makes the cuisine at Vaksana Farms unique?

Kasthuri Ammal: Our cuisine is rooted in the rich culinary heritage of Tamil Nadu. We focus on creating wholesome and nutritious dishes that are not only delicious but also promote good health. What sets us apart is our commitment to using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Everything we serve is made from scratch, using traditional methods that preserve the nutritional value of the food.

 

Can you share some of the traditional dishes you prepare at Vaksana Farms?

 

Kasthuri Ammal: Certainly! Some of our signature dishes include milagu rasam, a pepper-based soup that is excellent for digestion, and kootu, a vegetable and lentil stew that is rich in protein and fibre. We also make a variety of podis and pickles, which are great for adding flavor and boosting gut health. Our meals are balanced, with a mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats, ensuring that our guests receive all the essential nutrients.

How do you ensure that the food at Vaksana Farms is nutritious?

Kasthuri Ammal: The key is in the ingredients and the cooking methods. We grow many of our vegetables and herbs right here on the farm, so we know they are free from pesticides and chemicals. We also use traditional cooking techniques that help retain the nutrients in the food. For example, we prefer slow-cooking methods and avoid deep frying whenever possible. Additionally, we use a lot of spices like turmeric, cumin, and coriander, which have numerous health benefits.

What role does food play in promoting gut health?

Kasthuri Ammal: Gut health is crucial for overall well-being, and the food we eat plays a significant role in maintaining a healthy gut. At Vaksana Farms, we focus on incorporating a variety of fibre-rich vegetables, fermented foods, and probiotics into our meals. Fermented foods like idli and dosa, made from fermented rice and lentils, are excellent for gut health. We also make our own yogurt, which is a great source of probiotics. These foods help maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria, which is essential for digestion and immunity.

How do you cater to guests with specific dietary needs?

Kasthuri Ammal: We are very mindful of our guests’ dietary preferences and needs. Whether someone is vegan, gluten-free, or has any other dietary restrictions, we are happy to accommodate them. We believe that everyone should be able to enjoy delicious and nutritious meals, so we offer a variety of options to suit different diets. Our goal is to ensure that every guest leaves Vaksana Farms feeling nourished and satisfied.

What advice would you give to someone looking to improve their diet and overall health?

Kasthuri Ammal: My advice is to focus on whole, unprocessed foods and to cook as much as possible at home. Use fresh ingredients and experiment with different spices and herbs to make your meals flavourful and nutritious. Pay attention to how your body responds to different foods and adjust as needed. And most importantly, enjoy the process of cooking and eating—it should be a joyful and fulfilling experience.

Kasthuri Ammal’s dedication to preserving the traditional culinary heritage of Tamil Nadu and her commitment to promoting health through nutritious food is truly inspiring. At Vaksana Farms, every meal is a celebration of good health and great taste. We hope this interview has provided you with valuable insights and a glimpse into the culinary magic that awaits you at Vaksana Farms.