Two women standing close together, smiling, one holding a yellow mug. The woman on the left has long dark hair and is wearing a striped shirt, the woman on the right has curly dark hair and is wearing a maroon off-shoulder sweater and jeans.

Welcome to The Jolly Tamil!
We’re a mother-daughter duo with a shared love for cooking and storytelling through food. From Mum’s youth in Sri Lanka and Singapore to my own adventures in Malaysia, our journey spans continents and generations. Together, we bring authentic Tamil dishes with a twist, blending tradition and global flavors straight to your plate.

Plate of traditional Indonesian rice and side dishes on a banana leaf, including rice, fried fish, vegetables, and a cracker.

The Beginning

Growing up, some of my most cherished memories were in the kitchen with my Amma (Mum). I would watch in awe as she skillfully blended and ground spices, turning simple ingredients into magical flavors. Those moments sparked my love for food and inspired the journey we’re on today. Now, we’re excited to share that passion with you. Every dish we create is a labor of love—Tamil-inspired, with a unique twist that reflects our own story and creativity.

A person wearing multiple colorful bangles on each wrist and intricate henna designs on their hands. The person is dressed in traditional clothing with a patterned fabric in gold and navy blue.

What is Tamil food?

Tamil food is a vibrant and flavorful cuisine deeply rooted in the traditions of Sri Lanka and Tamil Nadu, India. Known for its rich spices, aromatic curries, and a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, it reflects the heritage and culture of Tamil people. Over centuries, Tamil communities have spread across the world, including to countries like Singapore, where their culinary traditions have mingled with local influences. This global migration has resulted in a unique fusion of flavors, blending traditional Tamil food with elements from diverse cultures, making it both authentic and contemporary.