Kavuni Arisi Payasam

The signature Chettinad dessert — black/purple sticky rice (kavuni arisi, a heirloom variety unique to the region) slow-cooked in coconut milk with jaggery until thick and creamy, turning a deep indigo-purple. Eaten at celebrations and served at Chettinad homes as the definitive sweet. The flavour is deeply earthy with coconut richness.