New Comers to India quicly learn that there is absolutely no such thing as “Indian Food.” Instead, the size and diversity of the country ensure that each region has a deliciously unique cuisine all to itself.
Keralan food sets itself apart with ingredients ranging from coconut, rice, and shellfish to mango, tamarind, and curry leaves; freshness and tropicality are also prominent. This is due to the state’s tropical climate and proximity to the sea. We’ve selected 10 typical Keralan delicacies for you to look for on your upcoming gastronomic tour of South India. These delicious meals encapsulate the heart and soul of “God’s own country,” from masala dosas the size of your table to fragrant fish curries.
1. APPAM WITH STEW
A Kerala breakfast staple, appams are similar to dosas, but are slightly thicker in the centre (and are sometimes made with coconut milk). With a meat or vegetable stew alongside, the dish makes for a pleasingly hearty start to the day.
2. DOSAS
Few traditional Keralan dishes are as revered as masala dosas. The dish consists of a thin, crepe-like pancake—made with fermented rice and lentil batter—stuffed with a spiced potato mixture. Ghee roast dosas, which sees the pancakes cooked in clarified butter until crisp, is another popular option.
3. SADHYA
A sadhya, Kerala’s version of the thali, is the ideal method to try a variety of delicacies in one sitting. Rasam, sambar, sour yoghurt stew, fiery mango pickles, poppadoms, and other vegetarian dishes are sometimes served on a tray made of a banana leaf.
4. THALASSERY BIRYANI
Although Hyderabad and Lucknow are the locations where the popular rice dish is most usually associated, Kerala has its own version of the meal. Short-grained kaima or jeerakasala rice is used in Thalassery biryani instead of long-grained basmati rice, along with a plethora of mouthwatering spices (and optional additions like coconut oil and rosewater).
5. PUTTU WITH KADALA CURRY
Puttu is so much more than simply a sweet dish name! You ought to taste this delectable Keralan culinary dish. It is a cylindrical rice cake that is steamed and prepared with a lot of coconut shavings. The dish is a favourite breakfast option and a staple in the state due to its excellent texture and flavour. It is typically served with Kadala, a stew cooked with black chickpeas in the Keralan manner.
6. IDIYAPPAM AND CURRY
In Kerala, idiyappam is one of the foods that people enjoy the most. Salt, water, and rice flour are used to make these delicate vermicelli. The Idiyappam’s texture is created by the strands being tucked together. These are typically offered with any curry. This dish’s thick texture and straightforward flavour pair wonderfully with savoury curries like egg curry. In the state, these are also referred to as “Noolappam.”
7. IDLY SAMBAR
Small, steamed discs made from rice and lentil flour, known as “idli,” are a common morning food in South India. For a true feast, serve alongside sambar (a stew of lentils and tamarind) and coconut chutney.
8. KERALA PRAWN CURRY
Kerala offers a wide range of seafood that is prepared using a regional spice blend because the state is surrounded by water. Traditionally, salt, pepper, and chilli are used to make prawn curry. Naturally, coconut milk and jaggery are used to make the gravy. Curry leaves are used to decorate the finished creamy curry, which is then served with hot chapatis or steamed rice.
9. FISH MOLEE
Seaside Since Kerala is known for its stunning coastlines and many backwaters, it should come as no surprise that the southern state is adept at cooking fish. Meen moilee, a coconut milk-based fish curry flavorful with mustard seeds and bright turmeric and served with rice, is a delicacy not to be missed.
10. KARIMEEN POLLICHATHU
Seaside Since Kerala is known for its stunning coastlines and many backwaters, it should come as no surprise that the southern state is adept at cooking fish. Meen moilee, a coconut milk-based fish curry flavorful with mustard seeds and bright turmeric and served with rice, is a delicacy not to be missed.
If you want to try these tasty Kerala dishes visit Mallu Cafe, Philadelphia,USA
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