Kerala, an enchanting state in southern India, is a treasure trove of culture, scenic beauty, and gastronomic delights. Whether you’re a devoted foodie or just craving new culinary experiences, Kerala has an array of dishes that cater to all palates. Let’s embark on a journey through the vibrant world of Kerala’s iconic cuisine.
Idiyappam: A Symphony of Flavors
Unveiling the magic of Kerala’s culinary scene, delve into the exquisite pairing of Idiyappam with Curry. This renowned dish tantalizes the taste buds with soft, almost melt-in-your-mouth noodles complemented by a flavorful curry. Made from a blend of flour, water, and salt, Idiyappam, when savored with authentic Kerala egg curry, unveils a tapestry of traditional and contemporary flavors.
Best Places to Savor: Saravana Bhavan, Jasmine Bay
Average Price: INR 80
Puttu: Breakfast Bliss
A breakfast staple, Puttu, a cylindrical rice cake, entices with its crumbly texture and layers of grated coconut. Pair it with Kadala Curry, a black chickpea dish, for a delightful contrast of flavors. The steam gently rises through the layers as it cooks, creating a soft and airy rice cake that is a must-try on your Kerala culinary adventure.
Best Places to Savor: Saravana Bhavan, Mezban
Average Price: INR 70 to INR 80
Erissery (Pumpkin And Lentil Stew): Comfort in a Bowl
A favorite in every Keralite home, Erissery is a comforting stew made with sweet pumpkins, lentils, and a blend of spices. The dish highlights the natural sweetness of pumpkins and the earthiness of lentils, offering a satisfying and nourishing experience.
Best Places to Savor: Kashi, Mezban
Average Price: INR 400
Appam: Crepe-like Delight
Appam, a bowl-shaped pancake with a crispy edge and a soft, fluffy center, is a specialty you cannot miss. Made from fermented rice and coconut batter, it pairs perfectly with Ishtu, a coconut milk-based stew. This classic breakfast or brunch choice epitomizes Kerala’s culinary creativity.
Best Places to Savor: Ariya Nivaas, Villa Maya, Varsha
Average Price: INR 180
Parippu Curry (Dal Curry): A Comforting Journey
Embark on a delightful journey with Parippu Curry, the cherished Dal Curry of Kerala. Cooked lentils in a blend of spices and coconut milk offer a soothing and flavorful experience. Each spoonful reflects Kerala’s culinary mastery in crafting simple yet remarkable dishes.
Best Places to Savor: Saravana Bhavan, Padmavilasom Palace
Average Price: INR 100
Ela Sadya: A Culinary Extravaganza
Immerse yourself in the grandeur of Ela Sadya, an elaborate feast that showcases Kerala’s rich culinary heritage. Spread across a banana leaf, this sensory experience includes aromatic rice, vegetable curries, pickles, papadums, and luscious desserts. It’s not just a meal but a celebration of the intricate bond between food and culture.
Best Places to Savor: Hotel Bharath, Chakara
Average Price: INR 500
Idli Sambar: South Indian Classic
No surprise here – Idli Sambar is a classic dish relished not only in Kerala but across the country. Soft and fluffy idlis paired with aromatic and tangy sambar create a balanced blend that is both satisfying and invigorating. A must-try for an authentic taste of South India.
Best Places to Savor: Ginger House, Aditi Restaurant
Average Price: INR 65
Dosa Ghee Roast: Street Food Delight
A masterpiece awaits with Dosa Ghee Roast in Kerala. The golden, crispy dosa, enjoyed with sambar and chutney, offers a fulfilling meal. Expertly roasted, the dosa’s crunch complements the velvety texture of sambar, creating a comforting and indulgent combination available at street food stalls across the state.
Best Places to Savor: Aditi Restaurant, Jasmine Bay, or local food stalls
Average Price: INR 100
Kerala Style Prawn Curry: Coastal Charm on Your Plate
A must-try for seafood lovers, Kerala Style Prawn Curry encapsulates the coastal beauty and flavors of the region. Tender prawns in a coconut milk-based gravy, infused with aromatic spices, offer a culinary journey to the shores of Kerala.
Best Places to Savor: Fort House Restaurant, Adam’s Teashop
Average Price: INR 725
Nadan Kozhi Varuthathu (Spicy Chicken Fry): Ignite Your Palate
Ignite your taste buds with Nadan Kozhi Varuthathu, a fiery Spicy Chicken Fry that’s a true delight. The intense aroma of spices, coupled with the crispiness of the fry, creates a symphony of invigorating and deeply satisfying flavors.
Best Places to Savor: Fusion, Spice Village
Average Price: INR 775
Karimeen Pollichathu (Fish): Culinary Gem
Karimeen Pollichathu is a culinary gem that must be experienced. Marinated pearl spot fish wrapped in banana leaves and cooked to perfection offers a delicate smokiness that enhances its natural taste. A harmony of textures awaits – succulent fish, burst of spices, and a gentle aroma from the leaves.
Best Places to Savor: Adam’s Teashop, Oceanos
Average Price: INR 645
Nadan Beef (Kerala Style Beef): Heart and Soul of Kerala
For beef lovers, Nadan Beef, or Kerala Style Beef, is a must-try. Slow-cooked with a blend of spices, it offers a rich and delicious balance. Served with chapatti, parotta, or rice, this dish resonates with Kerala’s passion for creating soulful and flavorful dishes.
Best Places to Savor: Kerala House Restaurant
Average Price: INR 775
Kallumakkaya Ularthiyathu (Mussel Stir Fry): Seafood Extravaganza
Kallumakkaya Ularthiyathu, or Mussel Stir Fry, is a popular traditional dish that combines mussels, shallots, spices, and grated coconut. The tender and succulent mussels absorb the aromatic spices, creating a flavorful seafood delight.
Best Places to Savor: Curry Leaf, Fishmongers
Average Price: INR 700
Erachi Varutharacha Curry (Fried-Ground Mutton Curry): Tantalizing Treat
A tantalizing Fried-Ground Mutton Curry, Erachi Varutharacha Curry, is a rich and tasty dish steeped in Kerala’s culinary traditions. The blend of roasted coconut and spices offers a comforting and exciting flavor profile.
Best Places to Savor: Ali Baba & 41 Dishes, A Beach Café
Average Price: INR 450
Palada Payasam: Sweet Culmination
End your culinary adventure on a sweet note with Palada Payasam, a cherished sweet rice kheer delicacy. This creamy rice pudding, slow-cooked in milk and ghee, promises a delightful contrast of comforting richness, jaggery sweetness, and cardamom aroma.
Best Places to Savor: Curry Leaf, Saravana Bhavan
Average Price: INR 100
Kerala’s culinary landscape is a vibrant tapestry of flavors that mirrors the rich cultural heritage and geographical diversity of the region. To immerse yourself in this gastronomic paradise, consider exploring Kerala through one of Vd Holiday India’s curated tour packages. Indulge not only in these delectable delicacies but also in the stunning landscapes and vibrant culture that Kerala has to offer.