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Kerala, a picturesque state in the southwestern part of India has warned the moniker, ‘God’s Own Country’ for its verdant landscape, diverse culture and of course, its delicious food. The food of Kerala is a reflection of its rich cultural heritage, abundant natural resources, and the culinary skills of its people. The cuisine of Kerala is a delightful blend of flavours, textures, and aromatic spices, making it a culinary experience unlike any other.
The traditional cuisine of Kerala has deep historical and cultural roots. It draws inspiration from the state's geographical features, climate, and historical trade connections with other nations. Kerala's culinary identity is distinguished by its reliance on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, prominently including coconut, rice, aromatic spices, and herbs.
When in Kerala, there are a few dishes which you absolutely cannot miss out on. Here are 8 you should try.
Video Credits: Home Tips And Cooking By Neji/YouTube
8 Famous Foods Of Kerala
1. Puttu and Kadala Curry
When you visit a Malayali household, you're likely to find a delightful breakfast of Puttu and Kadala Curry. This dish is a Kerala favourite with its rich flavour and straightforward recipe. The aroma is captivating, and when you taste the soft puttu with the spicy kadala (Black Chickpea) curry, you'll be transported to a different world.
2. Karimeen Pollichathu
This seafood speciality is a star dish popular in top-rated hotels and restaurants, especially in Alleppey. This unique Kuttanadan fish preparation involves marinating cleaned Pearl spot fish (Karimeen) with a flavorful spicy masala, and then baking it in a banana leaf. Although Karimeen has spiky bones everything is forgiven thanks to its delicious taste and flavour.
3. Erissery
A common sight at an Onam Sadya and in many homes throughout the year, Erissery is a must-have dish during a traditional Kerala feast. This South Indian delicacy combines vegetables and pulses with a ground coconut paste, all seasoned with roasted coconut. The result is a dish deeply rooted in Kerala's culinary heritage.
4. Appam and Stew
The ultimate comfort dish for many Malayalis, Appam and Chicken Stew grace the breakfast tables of many Kerala families. Appams are fluffy, round pancakes with crispy edges, perfect for enjoying with chicken stew. This stew is known for its thick, delectable gravy, enriched by fresh coconut milk. It's a time-honoured favourite, passed down through generations.
5. Mutton Ularthiiyathu and Parotta
Sweet, spicy and packed with spices. "Ularthiyathu" in Malayalam means roasting, and that's exactly what the Kerala mutton roast involves. Slow cooking, sautéing onions, and roasting freshly ground spices create a rich, deep brown colour and intensified flavours. The result is a delectable dish.
Video Credits: Swaad Of Kerala/YouTube
6. Pazham Pori
A typical snack you’ll find at street side tea stalls, Pazham Pori, or Plantain fritters are made from a special variety of plantain called "Nendrapazham," known for its high nutritional value. Slices of plantain are dipped in sweetened flour and deep-fried in oil. This snack is often enjoyed with a cup of steaming tea or coffee.
7. Thalassery Biryani
Though there are many types of biryani to enjoy in India, Thalassery Biryani stands apart as it has been influenced by Arabian traders who frequented the Malabar coast. Unlike other biryanis in India, it has a unique sweet and savoury flavour. The secret lies in the mild Malabar spices and aromatic small grain rice called Kaima, complemented by sautéed cashew nuts, raisins, and fennel.
8. Palada Payasam
There are many payasams or Palada Payasam, made with rice ada (fresh rice noodles), is a common sweet delicacy prepared in Kerala households during festivals like Onam. This easy South Indian Kerala food recipe uses basic ingredients like rice ada, milk, sugar, and ghee to create the best palada payasam.
