Delightful Foods of Kerala

Kerala, known for its stunning landscapes and rich culture, is also a paradise for food lovers. The state’s cuisine is a delicious blend of flavors, with an abundance of spices, fresh coconut, seafood, and tropical fruits. Each dish tells a story, reflecting the local traditions, geography, and history. If you are planning a trip to Kerala, here are some of the must-try foods that will make your experience unforgettable.

Appam and Stew ( A Breakfast Delight )

Start your day in Kerala with a plate of appam and stew. Appam is a soft, fluffy rice pancake with crispy edges, often paired with a mild and creamy vegetable or chicken stew. The stew is made with coconut milk, vegetables, or tender pieces of chicken, cooked with spices like cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom. This combination is light yet satisfying, perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Puttu and Kadala Curry ( A Traditional Treat )

Puttu is a popular breakfast dish made from steamed rice flour and grated coconut. It is cylindrical in shape and often served with Kadala curry, a spicy black chickpea curry. The rich flavors of the curry, combined with the soft texture of puttu, make it a comforting meal that is enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

Kerala Sadya ( A Feast on a Banana Leaf )

No trip to Kerala is complete without experiencing a traditional Sadya. This elaborate vegetarian meal is served on a banana leaf and includes a variety of dishes like rice, sambar, avial, thoran, pachadi, and different types of pickles. Sadya is usually enjoyed during festivals and weddings, and each dish adds its own unique flavor, from tangy and spicy to sweet and sour.

Malabar Parotta with Beef Fry ( A Local Favorite )

Malabar Parotta is a flaky, layered flatbread, which is often served with spicy beef fry. The beef is cooked with a mixture of spices, onions, and curry leaves, creating a dish full of flavor. This combination is popular in the Malabar region of Kerala and is a must-try for anyone who loves hearty, savoury food.

Karimeen Pollichathu ( A Backwater Specialty )

Karimeen Pollichathu, or Pearl Spot Fish, is a delicacy in Kerala. The fish is marinated with spices, wrapped in a banana leaf, and grilled to perfection. The banana leaf gives the fish a smoky flavor, while the spices add a kick. It’s usually enjoyed with steamed rice or appam and is a favorite among seafood lovers.

Nadan Kozhi Varuthathu ( Spicy Chicken Fry )

For those who love spicy food, Nadan Kozhi Varuthathu is a must-try. This dish consists of chicken pieces marinated in a mix of spices and then fried until crispy. Curry leaves, green chilies, and onions add extra flavor, making this dish a perfect side for rice or flatbreads like parotta.

Palada Payasam ( The Sweet Ending )

Kerala is known for its delicious desserts, and Palada Payasam is one of the most loved. This rice pudding is made with milk, sugar, and rice flakes, flavored with cardamom, and topped with cashew nuts and raisins. It is usually served during festivals and celebrations and is a perfect way to end any meal.

Kappa and Meen Curry ( A Unique Combination )

Kappa, or tapioca, is a common staple in Kerala, especially in rural areas. It is usually served with Meen Curry, a spicy fish curry made with tamarind and coconut milk. The combination of the mild kappa with the tangy fish curry is truly unique and showcases the bold flavors of Kerala’s cuisine.

Idiyappam with Egg Curry ( A Light Delight )

Idiyappam, or string hoppers, are thin rice noodles that are steamed and served with a variety of curries. A popular choice is to pair it with egg curry, where boiled eggs are simmered in a spicy, tangy tomato-onion gravy. This dish is light yet filling, making it a great option for breakfast or dinner.

Ela Ada ( A Sweet Snack )

Ela Ada is a sweet treat made from rice flour dough filled with coconut, jaggery, and cardamom. It is wrapped in banana leaves and steamed, giving it a unique flavor and aroma. This traditional snack is often enjoyed with tea and is perfect for those with a sweet tooth.

Thalassery Biryani ( A Malabar Marvel )

Thalassery Biryani is a special type of biryani from the Malabar region of Kerala. Unlike other biryanis, it uses a small, fragrant rice called Jeerakasala, which is cooked with meat (chicken, mutton, or fish) and a blend of spices. The dish is mildly spiced but full of flavor, and it’s often served with raita and pickles.

Pazhampori ( The Perfect Tea-Time Snack )

Pazhampori, or banana fritters, is a simple yet delicious snack made with ripe bananas dipped in a batter of flour and deep-fried. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these fritters are sweet and satisfying, making them a popular choice with a cup of tea.

A Culinary Journey Awaits

Kerala offers a variety of foods that cater to all kinds of tastes – from mild and sweet to spicy and tangy. Each dish tells a story of the state’s rich heritage and culture. Whether you’re a foodie or just someone looking to try new flavours, Kerala’s cuisine will not disappoint.

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