Etiquette for eating Rice and Curry with your hands?

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Priya Kapoor12080 rep2

I really want to eat like the locals do! What are the exact "rules" for eating rice and curry with my hands without looking foolish or rude?

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5 Answers from travellers

Accepted Answer

Rule #1: NEVER use your left hand for eating. The left hand is culturally reserved for bathroom hygiene. Rule #2: Only use the tips of your fingers to mix the rice and curries together. Do not let the food touch your palm. Rule #3: Use your thumb to push the little ball of mixed rice into your mouth.

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Dinesh Silva19250 rep1

Make sure to wash your hands at the sink BEFORE and AFTER the meal. Every local restaurant has a little sink in the corner specifically for this.

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Tom Fletcher16560 rep2

If you are struggling, it is totally okay to ask for a spoon! Locals won't be offended, they know it takes practice to eat wet curries with fingers.

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Emma Stone14730 rep2

Also, don't mix the entire plate into a massive pile at the start. Mix small portions of rice with a little bit of one or two curries for each bite. That way you taste the different flavor combinations!

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Lakmal Perera23480 rep1

Fingertips only, right hand only, mix small bites. Got it! I am so excited to try this.

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Priya Kapoor12080 rep2

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