Coconut milk, mustard seeds, and chilies are also widely used in the Southern province. Spices are the heart and soul of Indian cooking. But the quantity and proportions vary with the geographical boundaries. Curry powder is almost never used. Spices are freshly grounded and added in many different combinations.
Spices commonly used are coriander, turmeric, cumin, chilies, fennel, and fenugreek.
Other fragrant spices added are cardamom, clove, cinnamon and star aniseed. In Malaysia, there is an abundant of Indian restaurants and food stalls to whet your appetite. They are traditionally served on a thali, a circular metal tray on which a number of small bowls called katori, also made from metal, are placed. Eaten with fingers, rice or bread are placed directly on the thali while curries and other dishes are served in the bowls. For South Indian cuisine, banana leaves are often used as plates where rice is served in the center, followed by various curries and accompaniments around it.