Annamaya comes from the Sanskrit word

“anna”, meaning food, nourishment, or sustenance, and

“maya”, meaning made of or composed of

Together, Annamaya translates to:

“that which is made of food”

In ancient Indian philosophy, annamaya refers to the physical body — the part of us that is formed, sustained, and nourished by what we eat. It reflects the understanding that food is not just fuel, but the foundation of our energy, health, and lived experience.

This idea sits at the heart of this blog.

Annamaya is rooted in the belief that:

• What we cook shapes how we feel

• What we eat connects us to culture, memory, and place

• Nourishment is not one-size-fits-all

The recipes here are reflections of my everyday life. They’re inspired by family members and friends, meals shared at home, travels across cultures, and the comforting experiences that make food feel meaningful. Some dishes are deeply familiar while others are shaped by curiosity.

You’ll find recipes that prioritize whole ingredients, often limiting inflammatory foods like refined sugars and flours, without sacrificing joy, flavor, or ease. It’s about balance, intuition, and cooking in a way that feels supportive and sustainable.