Kerala, also known as “God’s Own Country,” is famous for its rich and diverse cuisine. The food here is full of coconut, spices, and fresh ingredients that make every dish unique. Here are ten famous foods from Kerala that you must try.
1. Puttu and Kadala Curry
Puttu is a steamed rice cake layered with grated coconut, served with Kadala Curry, a black chickpea curry cooked with coconut and spices. This is a staple breakfast dish in Kerala.
Best Place: Pai Brothers, Kochi.
2. Appam and Stew
Appam is a soft, bowl-shaped rice pancake that pairs perfectly with vegetable or chicken stew. The stew is cooked with coconut milk, giving it a mild and creamy taste.
Best Place: Dhe Puttu, Kochi.
3. Kerala Sadya
A grand vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf, Sadya consists of rice, sambar, avial, thoran, pachadi, and multiple side dishes. It is traditionally eaten during festivals like Onam.
Best Place: Mothers Veg Plaza, Thiruvananthapuram.
4. Malabar Parotta and Beef Curry
Malabar Parotta is a flaky, layered flatbread that pairs perfectly with Kerala-style beef curry. The beef is slow-cooked with coconut, spices, and curry leaves for a rich taste.
Best Place: Paragon, Kozhikode.
5. Karimeen Pollichathu
Karimeen (Pearl Spot fish) is marinated with spices, wrapped in a banana leaf, and grilled to perfection. This dish is popular among seafood lovers.
Best Place: Grand Hotel, Kochi.
6. Nadan Kozhi Varuthathu (Spicy Fried Chicken)
This dish features chicken marinated with local spices and deep-fried for a crispy and spicy taste. It is often served with rice or parotta.
Best Place: Rahmath Hotel, Kozhikode.
7. Kappa and Meen Curry
Kappa (tapioca) is a popular dish in Kerala, usually served with a spicy fish curry made with coconut and tamarind. This combination is a favorite among locals.
Best Place: Hotel Shappu Curry, Alappuzha.
8. Thalassery Biryani
A unique biryani made with fragrant rice, chicken or mutton, and special Malabar spices. It is lighter than traditional biryanis but packed with flavors.
Best Place: Paris Hotel, Thalassery.
9. Banana Chips
These crispy, golden chips are made from raw bananas and fried in coconut oil. They are a popular snack and are often served during festivals.
Best Place: Kumari Chips, Kozhikode.
10. Payasam
A traditional Kerala dessert made with rice, lentils, or vermicelli cooked in milk or coconut milk, flavored with cardamom and dry fruits.
Best Place: Ambalappuzha Sree Krishna Temple, Alappuzha.
Conclusion
Kerala’s cuisine is a mix of traditional flavors, fresh ingredients, and rich spices. Whether it’s the comforting taste of Sadya or the fiery flavors of Karimeen Pollichathu, Kerala has something for every food lover. If you visit Kerala, don’t miss out on these delicious dishes!