A Culinary Journey Top 19 Must-Try Dishes of Kerala

Kerala, fondly known as "God's Own Country," is a land rich in tradition, culture, and scenic beauty. But beyond its lush landscapes and tranquil backwaters, Kerala is home to a culinary heritage that has captivated the hearts of food lovers worldwide. If you're exploring Kerala through one of the Kerala tour packages, indulging in the region's authentic cuisine is an absolute must. Here, we take you on a flavorful tour through the top 19 dishes that showcase the essence of Kerala's food culture.

Appam with Stew

A light and fluffy pancake made from fermented rice batter, appam pairs perfectly with a creamy, coconut-based vegetable or meat stew. It's a staple breakfast choice in Kerala.

Puttu and Kadala Curry

A traditional combination, puttu (steamed rice cakes) served with kadala curry (black chickpeas cooked in a spicy coconut gravy) is a favorite breakfast option in Kerala homes.

Malabar Parotta

This flaky, layered flatbread is famous across Kerala, especially in the Malabar region. Often served with a spicy beef or chicken curry, Malabar parotta is a crowd favorite.

Kerala Sadya

A feast fit for royalty, Kerala Sadya is a traditional vegetarian meal served on a banana leaf. It includes a variety of dishes such as sambar, rasam, avial, thoran, and payasam. Sadya is often the highlight of festivals and celebrations.

Karimeen Pollichathu

One of the most iconic seafood dishes in Kerala, karimeen pollichathu is pearl spot fish marinated in spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and grilled to perfection. It’s a must-try for seafood lovers.

Nadan Kozhi Varuthathu (Spicy Chicken Fry)

A popular dish in Kerala, Nadan Kozhi Varuthathu is a spicy, deep-fried chicken dish cooked with traditional spices and served with parotta or rice.

Thalassery Biryani

Kerala’s take on the biryani is unique, with fragrant short-grain rice, mildly spiced chicken, and rich flavors from dried fruits and nuts. A perfect fusion of Arab and Indian influences, this dish is a must-try.

Erissery

Erissery is a healthy, vegetarian dish made from pumpkin, coconut, and lentils. It's often served as part of the Sadya meal and is known for its mild sweetness and rich texture.

Kappa and Meen Curry (Tapioca and Fish Curry)

A staple food of Kerala, kappa (tapioca) served with spicy fish curry is a hearty and comforting meal that reflects the state's love for simple, rustic flavors.

Pathiri

Pathiri is a thin rice flatbread, traditionally served with spicy meat curries like chicken or mutton. It’s soft, delicate, and a favorite among the Muslim communities in Kerala.

Palada Payasam

A rich, creamy dessert made with rice flakes, milk, and sugar, Palada Payasam is often served at weddings and during festivals. It’s a comforting dish that satisfies the sweet tooth.

Idiyappam with Egg Curry

Also known as string hoppers, Idiyappam is a steamed rice noodle dish, often served with coconut milk or a flavorful egg curry. It’s light, soft, and easy on the palate.

Unniyappam

A sweet snack made from rice, jaggery, banana, and coconut, unniyappam is a favorite treat during festivals and special occasions.

Kozhukatta

This steamed rice dumpling stuffed with jaggery and coconut is a popular snack or breakfast dish in Kerala, often enjoyed during festive seasons.

Banana Chips

Kerala is renowned for its crispy banana chips, usually deep-fried in coconut oil. These chips are a perfect snack to enjoy on a lazy afternoon or as a crunchy side dish with meals.

Pazham Pori (Banana Fritters)

A classic tea-time snack, Pazham Pori consists of ripe bananas coated in a sweet batter and deep-fried to a golden crisp. It’s simple but incredibly delicious.

Sambar

A tangy and spicy lentil-based stew with vegetables, sambar is a versatile dish served with rice, dosa, or idli in Kerala. Its rich flavors make it a staple in almost every meal.

Mutton Curry

Kerala's mutton curry is a hearty dish cooked with a blend of aromatic spices and coconut. It pairs perfectly with rice, parotta, or appam.

Avial

A medley of vegetables cooked in a thick coconut-based gravy, Avial is a staple vegetarian dish. Its mildly spiced, tangy flavor makes it an essential part of any Sadya meal.

Explore Kerala Through Its Flavors

When you embark on one of the many Kerala tour packages, don’t miss the chance to savor these iconic dishes. Whether you’re a fan of spicy seafood, hearty vegetarian meals, or sweet treats, Kerala’s cuisine offers a unique culinary experience that reflects the state’s rich cultural tapestry.

Indulge in these flavors while soaking in the beauty of Kerala's landscapes, making your trip an unforgettable feast for both the eyes and the taste buds.