Discover 7 Kerala Famous Foods You Can’t Afford to Miss 

Kerala, often called “God’s Own Country,” is renowned for its stunning landscapes, serene backwaters, and vibrant culture. However, one of the most captivating aspects of this southern Indian state is its rich and diverse culinary heritage. Kerala’s famous food reflects the state’s cultural tapestry, characterized by its extensive use of coconut, rice, and an array of aromatic spices.

Coconut, in its various forms—grated, milk, and oil—is a staple in Kerala cuisine, imparting a unique richness and depth to the dishes. Rice, another cornerstone of the diet, is a primary staple and the base for numerous traditional dishes, ranging from steamed puttu to the fragrant Thalassery biryani. The vibrant use of spices such as black pepper, cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon, along with fresh curry leaves, adds a distinctive aroma and flavour to Kerala’s food.

Kerala’s culinary traditions are a testament to the state’s historical influences, agricultural bounty, and people’s ingenuity. The cuisine offers a delightful mix of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, each prepared with a meticulous blend of ingredients and techniques that have been passed down through generations. This harmonious blend of flavours and textures makes Kerala’s food not just a meal but a celebration of the state’s rich cultural heritage.

Must-Try Kerala Famous Foods: A Culinary Adventure

1. Appam with Stew

Appam with stew is a classic Kerala famous food that showcases the perfect blend of flavours and textures. Appam, a rice pancake with a soft, fluffy centre and crispy edges, is made from fermented rice batter and coconut milk. It is typically served with a mild yet flavorful stew made from vegetables or meat, simmered in a coconut milk-based gravy. 

2. Puttu and Kadala Curry

Puttu and Kadala Curry is another iconic breakfast combination from Kerala. Puttu is a cylindrical steamed cake made from ground rice and grated coconut cooked in a special puttu maker. It is traditionally served with Kadala Curry, a spicy and flavorful black chickpea curry cooked with roasted coconut, onions, tomatoes, and a medley of spices. 

3. Malabar Parotta with Kerala Beef Curry

Malabar Parotta with Kerala Beef Curry is a culinary delight from the northern Malabar region of Kerala. This flaky and layered flatbread is made from maida (refined wheat flour) and requires skillful preparation to achieve its characteristic layers. It is typically served with a rich and spicy beef curry, slow-cooked with aromatic spices, coconut, and curry leaves. 

4. Kerala Prawn Curry

Kerala Prawn Curry, also known as Chemmeen Curry, is a delectable seafood dish that exemplifies Kerala’s coastal flavors. This curry is made with fresh prawns cooked in a tangy and spicy coconut milk-based gravy infused with tamarind, curry leaves, and a blend of traditional spices. The use of coconut milk adds a creamy richness to the curry, while the tamarind imparts a tangy note, creating a perfect balance of flavours.

5. Nadan Kozhi Varuthathu (Spicy Chicken Fry)

Nadan Kozhi Varuthathu, also known as Kerala Spicy Chicken Fry, is a special food in Kerala that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. This dish features succulent pieces of chicken marinated in a blend of spices, including red chilli powder, turmeric, ginger, garlic, and black pepper, and then fried to perfection. The result is a crispy and flavorful chicken fry with a fiery kick, often garnished with curry leaves and sliced onions. 

6. Erissery (Pumpkin and Lentil Stew)

Erissery is a traditional Kerala famous food made from pumpkin and lentils, cooked in a flavorful coconut-based gravy. This vegetarian dish is integral to Kerala’s festive Sadhya meal, especially during the Onam festival. The combination of soft and sweet pumpkin with earthy lentils, seasoned with a blend of spices and tempered with mustard seeds, dried red chillies, and curry leaves, creates a comforting and nutritious stew.

7. Thalassery Biryani

Thalassery Biryani, also known as Malabar Biryani, is a famous rice dish from the coastal town of Thalassery in Kerala. This biryani is unique for its use of a special type of rice called Jeerakasala or Kaima, which is short-grained and aromatic. The rice is cooked with succulent pieces of meat (usually chicken or mutton), a blend of spices, and a rich gravy made from onions, tomatoes, and yogurt. Thalassery Biryani is known for its distinct flavour, fragrant aroma, and the perfect balance of spices. It is often garnished with fried onions, cashews, and raisins, adding a touch of sweetness to the savoury dish. 

Order Now Through Swiggy for Iconic Taste of Kerala’s Food!

If you’re craving the authentic flavours of Kerala but can’t visit the state, Swiggy has got you covered. Many local best non veg restaurants and home chefs offer a variety of traditional Kerala dishes on the platform, allowing you to enjoy the iconic taste of Kerala from the comfort of your home. Whether you’re in the mood for crispy and spicy Nadan Kozhi Varuthathu or rich and creamy Kerala Prawn Curry, Swiggy brings Kerala’s diverse and flavorful cuisine to your doorstep. You can also check Appam restaurants if you are craving delicious Kerala style Appam. There are also plenty of Puttu restaurants that you can check on Swiggy for that scrumptious Puttu. 

Conclusion

Kerala’s culinary heritage is a delightful blend of flavours, textures, and aromas that reflect the state’s rich cultural traditions and diverse agricultural bounty. From the soft and fluffy Appam with Stew to the spicy and crispy Nadan Kozhi Varuthathu, each dish offers a unique taste experience that showcases the creativity and culinary skills of the people of Kerala. By exploring these seven famous foods, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the rich and diverse cuisine of Kerala, making your culinary journey through this beautiful state truly unforgettable.

FAQ

1. How is Kerala food different from other Indian food?

Kerala food is distinct from other Indian cuisines due to its extensive use of coconut, both in grated and milk form, and the generous use of spices like black pepper, cardamom, and cloves. The cuisine often features a balance of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, with seafood playing a prominent role due to the state’s coastal location. Using fresh ingredients, traditional cooking methods, and unique flavour combinations set Kerala food apart from other regional cuisines in India.

2. Are there any famous festivals in Kerala that highlight their food?

Yes, several festivals in Kerala highlight traditional food. Onam, the harvest festival, is one of the most famous and features a grand vegetarian feast called Sadhya, which includes a variety of dishes like Erissery, Avial, and Payasam. Vishu, the Malayalam New Year, is another important festival where special dishes like Vishu Kanji and Vishu Katta are prepared. 

3. What are some healthy benefits of Kerala Famous Foods?

Kerala food offers several health benefits due to its fresh and wholesome ingredients. The cuisine’s reliance on coconut provides healthy fats and fibre-rich fats. Using spices like turmeric, black pepper, and ginger offers anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Additionally, the inclusion of lentils, vegetables, and seafood ensures a balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. Traditional cooking methods, such as steaming and slow-cooking, help retain the nutritional value of the ingredients, making Kerala food not only delicious but also nutritious.