Must-Try Dishes in Kerala: A Culinary Voyage through God’s Own Country
Kerala, the tropical paradise known as “God’s Own Country,” is not only famous for its scenic beauty but also for its rich and diverse cuisine. Influenced by the region’s history, culture, and geography, Kerala’s culinary offerings are a true delight for any food lover. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, here are some must-try dishes that capture the essence of Kerala’s vibrant food culture.
1. Appam with Ishtu (Stew)
A breakfast favorite in Kerala, Appam is a soft and fluffy rice pancake with a slightly crispy edge. It’s typically paired with Ishtu, a delicate stew made from coconut milk, vegetables, and either chicken or mutton. The creamy, fragrant stew perfectly complements the light and airy appam, making it a must-try dish for anyone visiting Kerala.
2. Puttu and Kadala Curry
Puttu is a simple yet delicious dish made from steamed cylinders of ground rice layered with coconut. It’s often served with Kadala Curry, a spicy black chickpea curry that provides a flavorful contrast to the soft puttu. This dish is a breakfast staple in Kerala but can be enjoyed any time of the day.
3. Kerala Sadya
No culinary journey through Kerala is complete without experiencing a traditional Sadya. Served on a banana leaf, Sadya is a feast that includes a variety of vegetarian dishes such as Avial, Thoran, Olan, Pachadi, and more. The meal concludes with a sweet dish called Payasam. Typically served during festivals and special occasions, Sadya is a true celebration of Kerala’s diverse vegetarian cuisine.
4. Meen Pollichathu
For seafood lovers, Meen Pollichathu is a dish you cannot miss. It features fresh fish, typically pearl spot (Karimeen), marinated with a blend of spices and wrapped in banana leaves before being grilled. The banana leaf imparts a unique flavor to the fish, making this dish a delightful culinary experience.
5. Malabar Biryani
Hailing from the Malabar region in northern Kerala, this biryani is a fragrant and flavorful rice dish made with spices, basmati rice, and your choice of chicken, mutton, or fish. What sets Malabar Biryani apart is its unique preparation method, where the rice and meat are cooked together, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Served with a side of raita and pickle, it’s a must-try for biryani lovers.
6. Parippu Curry
Parippu Curry is a simple yet flavorful lentil dish made from moong dal (yellow lentils) cooked with coconut milk, cumin, and a hint of ghee. It’s typically served with rice and is an essential part of a traditional Sadya. The creamy texture and rich taste make it a comfort food for many in Kerala.
7. Erissery
A traditional Kerala dish, Erissery is made from pumpkin or yam, cooked with a blend of coconut, spices, and beans, and tempered with roasted coconut and curry leaves. This dish has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and is often part of the Sadya meal. Its unique taste and texture make it a must-try for those looking to explore Kerala’s vegetarian offerings.
8. Kappa and Meen Curry
Kappa (tapioca) and Meen Curry (fish curry) is a popular combination in Kerala. Kappa is boiled and mashed, sometimes seasoned with spices, and served alongside a spicy and tangy fish curry. The contrasting flavors of the bland tapioca and the fiery fish curry create a perfect balance, making this a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
9. Palada Payasam
No meal in Kerala is complete without a sweet ending, and Palada Payasam is the perfect dessert to do just that. Made from rice ada (rice flakes), milk, and sugar, this creamy, rich dessert is flavored with cardamom and often garnished with cashews and raisins. It’s a must-have during festivals and special occasions.
10. Thalassery Chicken Dum Biryani
Another variant of biryani from the Malabar region, Thalassery Chicken Dum Biryani is distinct for its use of short-grain rice, known as Jeerakasala or Kaima rice. The chicken is marinated with a blend of spices, layered with partially cooked rice, and then slow-cooked in a sealed pot. The result is a biryani that’s incredibly aromatic and flavorful, with each bite offering a taste of the region’s rich culinary heritage.
Conclusion
Kerala’s cuisine is a delightful blend of spices, fresh ingredients, and unique cooking methods that have evolved over centuries. From the coastal delicacies to the vegetarian feasts, each dish tells a story of the region’s rich cultural heritage. So, when you visit Kerala, make sure to indulge in these must-try dishes to truly experience the flavors of God’s Own Country.
