Kerala – a prismatic Indian state that is divided by turquoise water, but united by flavour some foods!Also called the ‘Land of Spices’, Kerala or God’s Own Country is known for its spice plantations, productions and trade since the beginning of time.
Carrying this legacy of spices forward, the state has become a confluence point of foodies from almost all the corners of the globe! Might sound unbelievable, but Kerala is the home to some of the most delicious foods in the world, and some of its recipes are also patented! Well, if you are a foodie who is craving for a true gastronomic delight, here is a list famous delicacies of Kerala that you must savour at least once in your lifetime:
1Puttu and Kadala Curry – Signature Breakfast of Kerala:
The signature breakfast of the entire Kerala state – Puttu and Kadala curry, is one of the many delicacies of Kerala that will drop you on your feet. The simplistic yet a bundle of flavours is something that gives this dish first rank on our list.
Puttu is cylindrical steamed rice cakes cooked with grated coconut in a mould specifically designed for this dish. It is generally served with spicy Kadala curry which is actually a chick-peas gravy cooked with authentic Kerala spices and coconut milk. Puttu can also be served with ripe bananas as well; enjoy the staple breakfast of the state.
2Appam and Stew – An Affair of Spices:
One of the many Kerala foods, Appam is made with fermented rice flour and coconut milk. Quite similar to hotcake with fresh edges, this crepe-like dish is produced using aged rice flour, coconut milk, coconut water and a little sugar.
Ishtu or stew is a minor version of the European stew and comprises of coconut milk, cinnamon, cloves, shallots, and is served with appams. The stew may likewise highlight mango pieces, vegetables, chicken or lamb. The spicy aroma of spices, ginger further enhance the flavour of vegetables used in the stew.
3Malabar Parotta with Kerala Beef Curry- The Taste of Malabar:
Well, if you are assuming that Malabar Parotta is similar to parathas served in North India, you are definitely wrong! Originating from the Malabar regions of Kerala, this layered flat bread is made with flour, egg, oil/ghee and water. Parotta are usually beaten to give them a spiral shape consisting of 2-3 layers.
The mouth-watering Malabar cuisine can never be complete without beef!This delicious bread is commonly consumed with spicy beef curry which is generally made with prominent Kerala spices like cinnamon, cardamom, cloves and black peppercorns. We are sure your tummy is giving you s signal – you certainly don’t want to miss this dish!
4Chemmeen Curry – A Flavoursome Kerala Prawn Curry:
Kerala prawn curry; or how the locals fondly refer this dish as Chemmem curry, is one of the best delicacies of Kerala. For many don’t know, but this dish is also one of the shining jewel of Malabar cuisine- this spicy prawn curry is made with traditional Kerala spices and a special ingredient called Kudampli also called by the name of Brindleberry.
It is because of the presence of this secret ingredient that this dish tastes a little sour. Also the marinated prawns, drumsticks, raw mango are some of the other added ingredients that makes this dish one of the favourite dishes of Kerala folks.
5Thalassery Biriyani – The Queen of Biryanis:
Someone has rightly said: once you try Thalassery Biryani, you won’t want to try any other biryani! One of the favourite dishes of Malabar cuisine, this staple biryani is usually cooked by arranging cooked rice and biryani masala in layered pattern.
It is indeed surprising that meat is cooked separately on low heat with traditional masala, and once it is ready,it is then served along with rice. Also, Thalassery Biryani is prepared with a particular rice variety called Kaima; ding into a bundle of flavours!
6Karimeen Pollichathu– Traditional Delicacy of Kerala:
A traditional Kerala delicacy, Karimmen Pollichathu, is prepared with peal spot fish which is commonly found in the backwaters. It might be surprising but Karimmen Pollichathu is a Syrian-Christian delicacy which was lately included as a chief member of Kerala food.
The fish is usually marinated with a mixture of lemon juice, red chilies and other traditional Kerala spices. It is then wrapped in banana leaf and baked giving it’s a very upfront, yet traditional Kerala taste.
7Kappa and Meen Curry – Try Something Fishy:
If you are the foodie who loves trying food from different cultures and regions, this is one Kerala food that you would not want to miss! Kappa and Meen curry is a sensual love story between Cassa root or Tapioca and fiery fish curry. The smooth texture and authentic combination of flavours is deeply comforting and can make you lick your plate till the last bite.
8Kallumakkaya Ularthiyathu or Mussel Stir Fry– Finger Food of Kerala:
One of the best things about Kerala chefs – they have the skills and tactics that will make you believe that everything from sea can be cooked deliciously! A‘time-pass’ finger food, Mussel Stir Fry is definitely not a fast food as the mussels need to be cleaned properly which is time consuming.
The cleaned-dried mussels are then cooked with spices and grated coconut providing it a signature Kerala food taste and style.
9Erissery or Pumpkin and Lentil Stew– Vegan’s Delight:
Kerala foods are predominantly non-vegetarian cuisines.However, there is one vegetarian dish that beats lot of its non-veg competitors in terms of taste. Erissery or Pumpkin and LentilStew is made with slightly sweet pumpkin and dried lentils.
With an appearance that somewhere resemble to Dal, this gravy is a true bombshell of flavours when eaten with rice or neer dosa to be specific.
10Kerala Style Fish Molee
It might appear as a common fish curry available all over India, but you will get to know the difference once you dig into it! This absolutely sensual fish curry provides you with a beautiful and combined flavour of coconut and kudampuli or cocoum. You would never wish to try any other fish curry as this Kerala food will certainly get you hooked for the rest of your lives!
Well, there is no denial that Kerala cuisine is primarily famous for its two ingredients which are common in almost all Kerala foods – coconut and staple traditional spices. The above hand-picked delicacies will surely tempt you to try all the famous foods of Kerala, so, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, set out for a truly and invigorating food tour in God’s Own Country!