The cuisine of Kerala is widely influenced by the history and culture of the state that has a blend of both vegetarian and non-vegetarian food. Rice, fish, and coconut are the most common ingredients and curry leaves, and chillies are some popular spices that are used in their cooking. Just like the state the food of Malabar located in the northern part of Kerala also has flavours of both vegetarian and non vegetarian delights which are incorporated with the touch of Arab, Zamorin and Chirakkal cuisine.
From seafood to rice dishes, the regional cuisine is loaded with rich and creamy recipes. The unique characteristics of the local food can satiate the soul of a person but also make him crave more. The traditional dishes are rich in taste and a perfect amalgamation of indigenous and foreign flavours which mostly uses the locally available natural ingredients and techniques borrowed from foreign traders.
Here is a curated list of five dishes to make you feel the magic of Malabari cuisine:
1. Malabari Fish Curry
If you are a fish lover, you must try this delicious variety of fish curry. Loaded with spices like mustard seeds and ginger along with the goodness of coconut milk, this creamy and rich dish is perfect for all kinds of occasions and serves as an excellent option on the dinner menu.
2. Thalassery Biryani
Rich rice-based dish prepared with blend of spices and chicken it is popularly known as Kerala biryani. The ingredient that makes it different from other varieties of biryani is the use of Khaima rice. Mostly a non-vegetarian dish, it is also prepared with fish and mutton.
3. Malabari Prawn Curry
Another good option for seafood lovers. Prawns have a separate fan-base in India, but the recipes are basic and common. But if you want to gift your taste buds a unique and delectable flavour, this Malabari curry is perfect for you. The taste of prawns cooked along with tamarind, jaggery and coconut can take you to another world.
4. Muttamala
Prepared with steamed white eggs, the name means ‘necklace of eggs’ which is due to the way it is prepared. The egg yolks are set in the dish that looks like strands of lace and the entire presentation looks like a garland. It is served as a dessert and the basic ingredients are egg sugar and milk.
5. Chatti Pathiri
Similar to lasagna, this pancake is prepared with layers of spiced chicken between eggs and then baked in oven. It is specially served at Malabar weddings and parties.
Ingredients:
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup grated coconut
- 3 tbsp raisins
- 3 tbsp cashew nuts
- 3 tbsp poppy seeds
- 5 tbsp sugar
- ½ tbsp cardamom powder
- 2 tbsp ghee
For Pathiri
- 1 cup plain flour
- Warm water
- Salt to taste
For coating
- 5 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 3 tbsp sugar
- ½ tbsp cardamom powder
- 2 tbsp ghee
Method:
For filling:
- Heat ghee in a pan and roast raisins and broken cashew nuts, poppy seeds, stir well. Then add grated coconut and stir until light brown color.
- Add eggs, scramble it, add sugar and cardamom powder, mix well and switch off the flame.
For pathiri:
- Mix flour with salt and hot water and knead it well and make it into dough and keep it aside for 30 mins.
- Divide it into seven equal portions and roll it out to paper thin pathiries of uniform size. Heat a pan and cook them lightly, Keep it aside.
- Beat eggs, sugar and cardamom powder in a vessel and keep aside.
- Take a non-stick pan, spread ghee in it then take one pathiri, dip it in milk and egg batter and place it as first layer then sprinkle filling on top of it. Like this make all layers.
- Pour the remaining egg batter on the top. Cover it with lid and bake it over the stove top for 2-3 min on medium flame and 10-15 mins over the low flame.
- After cooking one side carefully flip it to another pan, bake it some more time and serve hot.
And what now? Head into the kitchen and explore the authentic flavours of Malabar with your family and friends. These dishes can enhance your lunch as well as dinner.
