Kerala Top 5 Iconic Dishes Must-Try Foods
Click the "Listen" button to enjoy an audio version of this post.

Welcome to God’s Own Country – Kerala!
Located in the southwestern part of India, Kerala is a land blessed with abundant natural beauty, serene backwaters, lush greenery, and a unique culinary heritage. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey to explore the flavors of Kerala and introduce you to some of its iconic dishes.

Let’s start our culinary adventure with a classic breakfast dish – Puttu and Kadala Curry. Puttu is a cylindrical steamed rice cake made with ground rice and coconut, while Kadala Curry is a flavorful black chickpea curry prepared with aromatic spices. This combination is a staple in every Kerala household and will surely tantalize your taste buds.

Appam is a lacy, fermented rice pancake with a delicate texture, crispy edges, and a soft center. It pairs perfectly with stew, a light and fragrant curry made with vegetables, meat, or fish cooked in coconut milk. The combination of fluffy appam and flavorful stew is a match made in culinary heaven.

Kerala is renowned for its delectable seafood delicacies, and Kerala Fish Curry is a must-try dish. Made with fresh fish simmered in a tangy coconut-based gravy infused with spices like turmeric, ginger, and curry leaves, this dish is a burst of flavors that captures the essence of Kerala’s coastal cuisine.

If you’re a fan of biryani, then the Malabar Biriyani will surely delight you. This aromatic rice dish is prepared with fragrant Basmati rice, tender meat (usually chicken or mutton), and a blend of spices that create a heavenly aroma. The Malabar region of Kerala is known for its unique biryani preparation, which includes the use of khaima rice and a secret mix of spices.

No Kerala meal is complete without a sweet ending, and Payasam is the perfect dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth. Payasam is a rich and creamy rice pudding made with milk, rice, sugar, and flavored with cardamom, saffron, and nuts. It’s often served during festivals and special occasions, and every spoonful is a divine indulgence.
Kerala’s cuisine is a treasure trove of flavors and aromas that will transport you to a culinary paradise. From the humble breakfast of Puttu and Kadala Curry to the indulgent Malabar Biriyani and soul-satisfying Payasam, Kerala offers a diverse range of dishes that cater to every palate. So, embark on a gastronomic journey and savor the authentic taste of Kerala in your own kitchen.
Now that you’ve discovered the culinary delights of Kerala, it’s time to roll up your sleeves, gather the ingredients, and recreate these mouthwatering dishes. Each food listed above has its own unique recipe, and you can click on the respective section below to directly access the recipe page. Happy cooking!”
Please note: Each food name is hyperlinked to its corresponding recipe page.
You Might Also Like
Vishu: Welcoming Prosperity, Light, and Flavors of Kerala
Celebrate Vishu with joy, tradition, and the rich flavors of Kerala! Discover...
Preparing and Serving Kerala Sadya
Kerala, a southern state in India, is known for its rich cultural...
Celebrating Onam: The Festival of Harvest and Unity
Onam is a vibrant and joyous festival celebrated predominantly in Kerala ,...
India’s Food Plate is the Greenest in the World – Here’s Why That Matters.
India’s traditional diet has been named the world’s most sustainable by WWF....
Pazham Kanji: A Traditional Fermented Rice Dish for Health and Sustainability.
Pazham Kanji is a fermented rice dish made from leftover rice, rich...
Chicken 65: South India’s Culinary Pride Shines Globally
Chicken 65, a popular South Indian dish, has received global recognition once...