Korean food in Chennai finds a home at the Madras Cookbook Club
Korean food in Chennai is not just confined to restaurants and supermarkets anymore. It has found an intimate space in the homes of food enthusiasts through the Madras Cookbook Club. Every month, this close-knit group gathers for a cosy potluck where members cook dishes from a chosen cookbook, transforming kitchens into playgrounds for creativity.
On a rainy Saturday evening, fairy lights sparkle on the walls and lo-fi music hums in the background as members arrive with casseroles and trays filled with their culinary experiments. The dining table becomes a colourful display of dishes ranging from kimchi and kimbap to fried chicken and stir-fried anchovies. Each potluck begins with admiration for the spread, followed by lively conversations about the challenges and joys of cooking from the featured book.
Started by friends Akshitha Praveen and Akshita Mucherla, the club was initially planned as a supper club. But over time, they realized a monthly cookbook-inspired potluck worked better for busy schedules. What began as a small experiment soon grew into a community of twenty members, ranging from absolute beginners to seasoned cooks, all bound by their love for food and curiosity about new cuisines.
Korean food in Chennai sparks creativity in kitchens
For their fourth gathering, the club picked Maangchi’s Big Book of Korean Cooking, and it quickly became a favourite. Members were excited to dive into authentic Korean recipes, complete with historical notes and helpful substitutions. From zucchini pancakes to blanched seasoned spinach and omelet rice dosirak, the evening’s menu reflected both diversity and dedication. Some even bought special tools, like bamboo mats for rolling kimbap, to bring authenticity to the experience.
The potluck became more than just a meal; it was an opportunity to learn, laugh, and share discoveries. Members exchanged notes about differences between scallions and spring onions, or tips on sourcing ingredients from the growing number of Korean supermarkets in the city. For many, the experience was about pushing personal boundaries in cooking. One member, who had never attempted deep frying before, made components for an Amritsari chaat from another cookbook. Another discovered a peanut podi recipe that later became a household staple.
What makes the club special is how it blends exploration with comfort. Every plate served is a mix of effort, curiosity, and camaraderie. Each bite is followed by playful banter, praise, and the occasional debate over flavours. While the setting remains casual, the learning is serious, and members often find themselves incorporating new techniques and recipes into their everyday meals.
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The group intentionally keeps gatherings small, hosting them at members’ homes to preserve a sense of intimacy and warmth. Every potluck ends with dessert, cheerful discussions, and the exciting task of picking the next cuisine. After exploring Korean food in Chennai, the group turned its attention to Sri Lankan recipes, continuing its mission of discovering world flavours one cookbook at a time. Also Read: World Mosquito Day 2025: Hidden Dangers That Go Beyond the Itch
Conclusion
Korean food in Chennai has found a unique spotlight through the Madras Cookbook Club, where community, curiosity, and cuisine come together in the most flavourful way. With each monthly potluck, the club isn’t just cooking meals it is cooking up memories, friendships, and a growing love for global food traditions.
