Introduction to Kerala Cuisine
The Kerala cuisine is intricately woven to its culture. God’s own country may be a heavenly abode of magnificent backwaters and beautiful landscapes. Yet, the exotic dishes of Kerala hold a special place in the hearts of both the localities and travellers. The cuisine in various ways defines the aromas and the gastronomy of the state that is much loved for its exquisite traditions and flavours.
Kerala – The land of spices
So what is so special about the food of Kerala? Why does it have its designated revered spot on the a la carte of national and international menus? Well, the simple answer is that Kerala is also called the ‘land of spices’. A variety of different spices are grown here and Kerala has always been a central hub for spice trade over the years. With both high quality and quantity of spices being grown, Kerala is also considered one of the largest world producers of spices. Interestingly, the spices are not only the backbone for the flawless flavours, but also have several medicinal and health benefits for those consuming it.
Some common ingredients of Kerala cuisine
Besides, the spices Kerala’s location and climate are also best suited for the growth of rice. Lush paddy fields interspersed with coconut trees are the most eye-catching scenic postcard moments of the state. Therefore, unsurprisingly, both rice and coconut play a huge role in its cuisine. Kerala dishes are fraught with rice preparations, as well as, coconut is used as one of the main ingredients in various dishes and different forms. Many special dishes use coconut milk, coconut gratings or even dry coconut as one of the principal ingredients.
And then there is the long coastline of Kerala coupled with many backwaters, rivers and streams. All of this means a rich marine fauna that also finds its way on platters. Fish, prawn preparations and curries are also an important part of the cuisine of the state.
A wide spread platter
Kerala cuisine is not confined to a single type or genre of food. Both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes find an equal presence in the cuisine of the state. In fact, side dishes are also an important part of meals. Whether it is the kadumanga or mango pickle, pavakka achar or bitter gourd pickle or the inji curry or ginger pickle, each of these is loved along with the main course meal. Some of the other popular side dishes of Kerala cuisine include the chammanthi podi, vellarikka pachadi, papaya or mango pulissery, kalan, sambhar, rasam and more.
Top Dishes of Kerala
Now, let’s plunge into the main course and check out some of most exotic dishes of Kerala cuisine.
Puttu – Kadala curry
Appam and stew/curry
Idiyappam and curry
Nadan Kozhi Varuthathu or spicy fried chicken
Malabar Biryani and Thalassery biryani
Kerala Fish Molee
Erissery
Parippu curry
Prawn curry
Sadhya
Erachi varutharacha curry or mutton curry
Naadan Kozhi curry or Chicken curry
Drinks in Kerala
A good hearty meal can definitely brighten the day. But drinks are also an essential part of the cuisine. Kerala is not far behind in churning out some cool exotic drinks that are defined in its local flavours and ingredients. Coconut water, of course, remains one the most natural and healthy drinks to satiate your thirst. However, some of the other drinks one can try to include the panakam made from ginger, lemon and water, the traditional spiced sambharam which is buttermilk seasoned with other ingredients. The popular street drinks, kulukki and nannari sherbet are extremely refreshing.
The cuisine of Kerala is an essential part of the rich culture and heritage of the state. The heavy dependence on local ingredients and the usage of locally grown materials adds flavour and aroma to the dishes that are both exotic yet traditional. Kerala cuisine reminds one of homeliness and bonhomie, of richness and subtleness and of warmth that can enliven your very being.
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