5 Must-Try Kerala Breakfast Dishes

Kerala, often called “God’s Own Country,” has rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes. But beyond its scenic beauty, Kerala is also renowned for its diverse and flavorful cuisine. The breakfasts in Kerala are a testament to the state’s culinary brilliance, offering a delightful blend of taste, nutrition, and tradition. Kerala breakfasts are known for using fresh ingredients, particularly coconut, rice, and various traditional spices that give each dish a unique and memorable flavor.

In Kerala, breakfast is more than just the day’s first meal; it is a cultural experience. The dishes are deeply rooted in the region’s history and are often linked to local customs and traditions. Whether it’s a simple, home-cooked meal or a grand feast during a festival, the breakfast table in a Kerala household is always brimming with vibrant colours, enticing aromas, and rich flavours. These breakfasts provide the necessary energy to start the day and bring families together, as many of these dishes are best enjoyed when shared with loved ones.

In this blog, we will explore five must-try Kerala breakfast dishes that will tantalize your taste buds and give you a true taste of Kerala’s culinary heritage.

Top 5 Must-Try Kerala Breakfast Dishes

1. Kozhukatta

Kozhukatta is a traditional Kerala breakfast dish that is both simple and delightful. These steamed rice dumplings are filled with a sweet mixture of grated coconut and jaggery, making them a favorite among children and adults alike. The preparation of Kozhukatta is a delicate process, requiring the rice flour dough to be shaped perfectly around the sweet filling before being steamed. The result is a soft, chewy exterior with a deliciously sweet and aromatic filling. 

2. Appam with Stew

Appam with stew is one of the most popular breakfast combinations in Kerala. Appam, a type of fermented rice pancake with a soft, spongy center and crispy edges, is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of curries. However, the most beloved combination is appam served with a coconut-based stew. The stew, typically made with vegetables, chicken, or mutton, is rich, creamy, and mildly spiced, allowing the ingredients’ natural flavours to shine through. The appam acts as the perfect vehicle to soak up the stew, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. 

3. Parippuvada

Parippuvada, or lentil fritters, are a crispy and savory snack that is a staple in Kerala cuisine. Made from soaked and ground split chickpeas (chana dal) mixed with spices like green chilies, curry leaves, and asafoetida, these fritters are deep-fried to golden perfection. Parippuvada is often enjoyed with a cup of tea, making it a popular breakfast or evening snack in Kerala. The crispy texture and the spicy, flavorful interior make Parippuvada an irresistible treat. 

4. Puttu and Kadala Curry

Puttu and Kadala Curry is a quintessential Kerala breakfast dish that perfectly captures the essence of the region’s cuisine. Puttu is a steamed cylinder of ground rice layered with grated coconut, traditionally cooked in a special cylindrical steamer. It is soft, fluffy, and mildly flavored, making it an ideal base for pairing with curries. The most popular accompaniment for Puttu is Kadala Curry, a spicy and aromatic black chickpea (kadala) curry cooked with roasted coconut, onions, and spices. 

5. Kappa

Kappa, or tapioca, is a starchy root vegetable that holds a special place in Kerala cuisine. While Kappa can be prepared in various ways, one of the most popular breakfast versions is Kappa Puzhukku. In this dish, the tapioca is boiled and then mashed with coconut, turmeric, green chilies, and curry leaves, creating a dish that is both hearty and flavorful. Kappa is often paired with a spicy fish curry or a simple chutney, providing a balanced meal that is both nutritious and filling. 

Order and Savor Authentic Kerala Breakfast on Swiggy!

If reading about these delicious Kerala breakfast dishes has made you hungry, you’re in luck! You can easily order these authentic Kerala breakfasts from the comfort of your home through Swiggy from most authentic Kerala restaurants. Simply log in to the Swiggy app, choose your favorite Kerala breakfast dishes, and enjoy a taste of Kerala delivered straight to your doorstep.

Conclusion

Kerala breakfasts are a celebration of flavor, tradition, and nutrition. Each dish tells a story of the region’s rich culinary heritage and the love that goes into preparing these meals. You’re not just eating breakfast—you’re experiencing a piece of Kerala’s culture. So, the next time you want to start your day on a flavorful note, search for breakfast restaurants near me and try Kerala breakfast dishes. Your taste buds will thank you! 

FAQ

1. What makes Kerala breakfast unique?

Kerala breakfast is unique due to its use of fresh, local ingredients like coconut, rice, and a variety of traditional spices. The dishes are often steamed or cooked with minimal oil, making them both healthy and flavorful.

2. What does Kerala food taste like?

Kerala food is known for its rich, bold flavors, often featuring a combination of sweet, spicy, and tangy elements. Using coconut in various forms adds a distinctive taste and texture to many dishes.

3. Why is breakfast called the most important meal of the day?

Breakfast is considered the most important meal because it provides the necessary energy to kickstart your day. A nutritious breakfast can improve concentration, boost metabolism, and help maintain a healthy weight.