Kerala, the land of swaying coconut palms, emerald backwaters, and stunning beaches, is also a paradise for food lovers. From the tangy curries and fluffy rice to the sweet treats and refreshing drinks, Kerala’s cuisine is a symphony of fresh flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
A Culinary Journey through Kerala
Keralan food is unique in its blend of South Indian and coastal influences. The use of coconut, curry leaves, ginger, and black pepper is what gives Keralan food its distinct taste. Rice is the staple food, and it is eaten with a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes.
Must-Try Delicacies
- Sadhya: A traditional Keralan meal served on a banana leaf, Sadhya is a feast for the eyes and the stomach. It consists of over 20 dishes, including rice, sambar, rasam, thoran, avial, parippu curry, pickles, and payasam.
- Dosa: A thin, crispy crepe made from fermented rice and lentil batter, dosa is a popular breakfast dish in Kerala. It is served with sambar and coconut chutney.
- Appam: Soft and fluffy rice pancakes, appams are another Keralan breakfast favorite. They are often served with stew or curry.
- Puttu: Steamed rice cakes with grated coconut, puttu is a healthy and delicious snack. It is often served with kadala curry.
- Seafood: Kerala’s coastline is blessed with an abundance of fresh seafood. Fish, prawns, crabs, and lobsters are all cooked in a variety of ways, each dish bursting with flavor.
- Ayurvedic Food: Kerala is home to Ayurveda, an ancient Indian system of medicine. Ayurvedic food is believed to have healing properties and is often incorporated into Keralan cuisine.
Beyond the Food
Keralan food is not just about the taste; it is also about the experience. Eating a Sadhya on a banana leaf, watching appams being made on a traditional griddle, or enjoying a seafood feast on the beach are all experiences that will stay with you long after you leave Kerala.
So, if you are looking for a culinary adventure, Kerala is the place to be. Come and experience the fresh, flavorful, and unique food of this beautiful state.
Myma… Ghar jaisa nahi, Ghar ka khana!
