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Explore the best dishes of Kerala’s Culinary Heritage that capture the essence of this gastronomical paradise.
Enough has been said about Kerala's lush landscapes, serene backwaters, and pristine beaches that make the state a traveller's delight. A lot more has been said about the state's rich culture and traditions that make it 'God's own country.' In this blog, we will explore the gastronomic paradise of Kerala, where every meal is a symphony of flavours, textures, and aromas. Kerala's culinary heritage is as diverse as its landscapes. From the hills of Munnar to the backwaters of Alleppey, each region adds its unique touch to the traditional dishes of this coastal state. Let's embark on a mouthwatering journey as we explore the top traditional dishes that exemplify the essence of Kerala's culinary delights.
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Let’s start our culinary adventure with the quintessential Kerala breakfast - Appam with Stew. These delicate, lacy rice pancakes are light and airy, a perfect match for the creamy coconut milk-based vegetable stew. The stew is a melange of vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and beans, simmered in a fragrant broth of coconut milk and whole spices. The subtle sweetness of the appam complements the hearty flavours of the stew, creating a divine culinary experience.
Puttu, a cylindrical steamed rice cake, steals the show when paired with Kadala Curry. The rice flour is layered with grated coconut, creating a delightful texture. The Kadala Curry, made with black chickpeas, features a tantalizing blend of spices like fennel, cinnamon, and cloves. This soul-satisfying combination is often relished for breakfast or as an evening snack, accompanied by ripe bananas for a touch of sweetness.
When in Rome, do what the Romans do. And when in Kerala, don’t miss the traditional Kerala Sadya. This is a grand vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf during auspicious occasions such as festivals, and weddings. The Sadya showcases an array of dishes like avial (a mixed vegetable stew), thoran (stir-fried vegetables with grated coconut), olan (ash gourd and coconut milk stew), sambar, rasam, and a variety of pickles. The symphony of colours, flavours, and textures in a Sadya is a celebration of Kerala's rich culinary heritage.
Karimeen Pollichathu is a signature dish of Kerala that features pearl spot fish marinated in a blend of spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and roasted to perfection. The succulent fish absorbs the flavours of the spices and imparts a unique taste, while the banana leaves infuse a delicate aroma. This dish is a testament to Kerala's love affair with seafood and the art of cooking with natural materials.
Kerala's coastal charm is perfectly captured in the Kerala Prawn Curry, a tantalizing dish that showcases the freshest catch of the day. The prawns are simmered in a luscious gravy made from coconut milk, tomatoes, and a medley of spices. The addition of tamarind imparts a tangy twist, elevating the dish to a symphony of flavours that dance on your taste buds.
Malabar Biriyani, a culinary gem of northern Kerala, is a symphony of fragrant long-grain rice cooked with tender pieces of meat (chicken, mutton, or beef). Infused with spices, caramelized onions, and mint leaves, this biryani is a heavenly amalgamation of flavours. Served with raita and papadum, this dish is an epitome of the Malabar region's culinary prowess.
Kerala Beef Fry is a popular side dish or snack that packs a punch with its fiery flavours. The beef pieces are marinated with a blend of spices and slow-cooked to perfection. The addition of curry leaves adds a burst of flavour, making this dish an irresistible favourite among meat enthusiasts.
The flaky, layered flatbread called Parotta, when paired with Kerala Chicken Curry, creates a match made in culinary heaven. The chicken curry features succulent pieces of chicken in a luscious gravy made from coconut milk, tomatoes, and a medley of spices. The flaky texture of the Parotta complements the rich flavours of the curry, making it a favourite street food and a popular choice for special occasions.
No traditional Kerala meal is complete without the delightful Payasam, a sweet and creamy dessert. Prepared with vermicelli, rice, or lentils, this milk-based dessert is sweetened with jaggery or sugar. Infused with cardamom and garnished with nuts and raisins, Payasam is a comforting and indulgent treat that leaves a lasting impression.
Pazham Pori, also known as Ethakka Appam, is a beloved snack that showcases Kerala's love for bananas. Ripe bananas are coated in a batter of flour, sugar, and a hint of turmeric, and then fried until golden and crispy. The result is a deliciously sweet and crunchy treat that is perfect with a cup of tea or as a quick snack on a rainy day.
Idiyappam, also known as "string hoppers," is another beloved breakfast dish in Kerala. These delicate rice noodles are steamed and served with a variety of accompaniments. One classic pairing is Idiyappam with Egg Curry. The soft, stringy noodles beautifully soak up the flavours of the spicy and aromatic egg curry. The dish showcases Kerala's love for combining simple ingredients to create a symphony of tastes that leave a lasting impression.
Erissery is a delightful and comforting traditional dish made with a combination of pumpkin, beans, or raw plantains. Cooked in a coconut and roasted coconut paste, the dish is seasoned with aromatic spices and tempered with curry leaves and mustard seeds. Erissery is a prominent dish served during Onam, Kerala's harvest festival, symbolizing the celebration of nature's bounty and unity in diversity.
The traditional dishes of Kerala are a celebration of locally sourced ingredients, aromatic spices, and the culinary expertise of generations past. Whether it's the grandeur of a Kerala Sadya, the fiery flavors of Kerala Beef Fry, or the sweetness of Payasam, each dish tells a story that connects us to the rich cultural heritage of this coastal paradise. So, the next time you find yourself in Kerala, don't miss the opportunity to embark on this savoury symphony of flavours. Relish the traditional dishes and immerse yourself in the tapestry that defines the culinary identity of God's Own Country.
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