Ah, Kerala! Just saying the name conjures up visions of emerald backwaters, swaying coconut palms, and beaches lapped by the Arabian Sea. But there’s another element that paints the picture of Kerala in vibrant hues – its food! Food in Kerala isn’t just sustenance; it’s a way of life, a thread woven into the fabric of every celebration, every festival, every single day.
Let’s take Onam, the granddaddy of all Keralite festivals. On Thiruvonam, the heart of Onam, a feast fit for a king unfolds on banana leaves – the Onasadhya. Over a hundred dishes, each with its own distinct flavor and aroma, come together to tell a story of the land’s bounty. From the tangy Kaalan to the melt-in-your-mouth Parippu Curry, from the fiery Theeyal to the comforting Avial, every bite is a burst of Kerala’s soul. Onam isn’t just about Onam Sadhya, though. Vishu Kani, the first thing you see on the auspicious morning of Vishu, is a carefully curated arrangement of fruits, flowers, and coins, a visual symphony announcing the start of a prosperous year. Christmas in Kerala wouldn’t be the same without Elaneer Payasam, a divine concoction of tender coconut water, rice, and jaggery, warming your insides on a chilly December morning.
But food in Kerala isn’t just about grand feasts. It’s woven into the everyday too. The aroma of freshly ground masala wafting from kitchens, the clanging of coconut shells being grated for chutney, the rhythmic pounding of rice for appams – these are the sounds of Kerala’s everyday symphony. In the toddy shops, men gather over plates of tapioca and fiery curries, sharing stories and laughter. On temple grounds, prasadam, a simple offering of sweetened porridge or payasam, becomes a gesture of shared devotion.
Food in Kerala is also a celebration of nature’s bounty. From the jackfruit biryani of the monsoon to the seafood specialties of the coastal villages, every season brings its own unique flavors to the table. The local markets are a riot of color and fragrance, overflowing with fresh produce grown with love and care.
So, the next time you think of Kerala, remember that it’s not just about backwaters and beaches. It’s about the aroma of spices, the clinking of spoons against clay pots, the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones. It’s about food that tells stories, fuels laughter, and binds communities together. Food in Kerala is a celebration of life, one delicious bite at a time.
Myma… Ghar jaisa nahi, Ghar ka khana!
