In the Hindi language, Thali means “plate” - a big plate in this case, comprised of smaller bowls of different dishes. The idea behind this traditional dish is to provide a completely balanced meal. In India, the ayurvedic concept of eating all “six flavors” is prevalent. This means each flavor: sweet, spicy, astringent, salty, sour, and bitter should be a part of the Thali. Recipes vary by region, restaurant, and personal preference, but Thali usually includes a few vegetable curries, sambar, rasam, curd, and a sweet payasam. Rice and different breads (roti in the north, chapati in the south) accompany the little dishes and act as their vehicle. If you are lucky, you can find restaurants still serving Thali the traditional way -on a banana leaf! Eating Thali is a great way to dive into the Indian cuisine scene as a westerner - as it is quite difficult to eat rice and curry with your hands!