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A Culinary Journey Through Kerala's Seawaters: Must-Try Dishes in Kerala

Discover Kerala's hidden culinary treasures! From Idiyappam with curry to Puttu and Kadala Curry, dive into a flavorful journey of unique traditional dishes of Kerala.

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Tiyasa
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best dishes to try in Kerala

Are you planning your next trip to Kerala? If you’re even thinking about the charming backwaters, vibrant culture, or the golden beaches of this coastal paradise, there’s something else you absolutely must experience, its mouthwatering seafood. Kerala, known for its lush green landscapes, also has a reputation for exceptional seafood, thanks to its 600 km coastline. Deeply influenced by the land’s spices, coconut, and fresh seafood, provide a feast for both your senses and souls, each one more flavourful and unique than the last. So, get ready to dive into the top 15 Kerala dishes from the coastal waters, that you shouldn't miss!

1. Fish Molee (Fish Stew)

Let’s kick things off with a delicacy that is sure to transport you to the heart of Kerala’s coastal cuisine: Fish Molee, a creamy fish stew made with coconut milk. This dish features fish pieces simmered in a mild curry, flavoured with green chilies, ginger, and curry leaves, resulting in a subtle yet deliciously aromatic broth. The richness of the coconut milk balances the heat from the spices perfectly. Traditionally served with Appam or Idiyappam (steamed rice noodles), Fish Molee is a perfect example of Kerala’s love for coconut-based dishes. Whether you are dining by the beach or in a traditional home, this dish is a must-try for seafood lovers.

2. Karimeen Pollichathu

If you think Kerala is all about fish curries, think again! Karimeen Pollichathu is the star of seafood lovers’ dreams. The famous Pearl Spot fish (Karimeen) is marinated in a delightful mix of spices and wrapped in banana leaves, then grilled to perfection. The result? A smoky, tender fish that carries the deep, earthy flavours of Kerala’s spices. Often served with steamed rice, this dish is a testament to the traditional methods of cooking that have been passed down through generations. The use of banana leaves not only locks in the spices but also infuses the fish with a wonderful fragrance that is unique to Kerala.

3. Malabar Parotta with Kerala Beef Curry

If you're seeking the perfect pairing, Malabar Parotta with Kerala Beef Curry should be at the top of your list. Malabar Parotta is a flaky, layered flatbread that has the perfect crunch on the outside but is soft and fluffy inside. This delightful bread pairs wonderfully with Kerala Beef Curry, which is rich, spicy, and packed with bold flavours from marinated beef and aromatic spices. Whether it's for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this combination is iconic in Kerala’s Malabar region and is a true reflection of the state’s love for hearty meals.

4. Malabar Biryani

If biryani is your love language, then Kerala’s Malabar Biryani is sure to speak to your soul. This dish is prepared using a special short-grain rice called “Kaima” or “Jeerakasala,” and is typically made “dum” style, where partially cooked rice and marinated meat are layered and sealed in a pot to cook slowly. The result is a fluffy, aromatic biryani that is a delightful combination of spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves. Traditionally served with pickles, raita, and a hard-boiled egg, Malabar Biryani is a special dish that holds a cultural and historical significance in the region, often enjoyed at weddings and festivals.

5. Appam with Stew

A Kerala classic, Appam with Stew is the ultimate comfort food. Appam is a soft, spongy pancake with crispy edges, made from fermented rice batter. It’s traditionally paired with a mild stew, which can be made with vegetables or meat, offering a harmonious contrast of textures and flavours. This dish perfectly encapsulates Kerala’s ability to create food that is both simple and sophisticated. Whether it’s a light breakfast or a filling meal, Appam with Stew is a must-try for anyone visiting the state.

6. Puttu and Kadala Curry

Breakfast in Kerala is an experience of its own, and Puttu with Kadala Curry is the undisputed favourite. Puttu is a cylindrical steamed rice cake, layered with freshly grated coconut, and is typically paired with Kadala Curry, a spicy black chickpea stew. Together, they offer a delightful mix of textures— the softness of the Puttu with the spicy kick of the Kadala Curry. This dish is a favourite not just for breakfast but can be enjoyed throughout the day. It’s a comforting meal that encapsulates the flavours of Kerala.

7. Pazham Pori (Banana Fritters)

For a quick snack on the go, you can't go wrong with Pazham Pori. These golden, deep-fried fritters are made by dipping ripe bananas in a sweet batter and frying them to crispy perfection. They are often enjoyed with a hot cup of tea, making them the perfect companion for a Kerala afternoon. This simple yet addictive snack is loved by locals and tourists alike, and can be found at street corners and local shops across the state.

8. Parippu Payasam

Now, for a sweet ending to your Kerala meal, try Parippu Payasam, a delightful lentil-based dessert made from moong dal, jaggery, coconut milk, and a hint of cardamom. Often prepared during festivals, this dish is both comforting and indulgent. It’s the kind of dessert that makes you feel like you’re at a family celebration, sharing in the joy of traditional Kerala cooking.

9. Banana Halwa

For those with a sweet tooth, Banana Halwa is a treat you won’t forget. Made from ripe bananas, sugar, ghee, and cardamom, this dessert is rich, glossy, and simply irresistible. Its smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture is a perfect indulgence for any occasion. You’ll find this sweet treat being served at local eateries and festive gatherings, making it a beloved part of Kerala’s dessert repertoire.

10. Chatti Pathiri

Chatti Pathiri is a sweet layered pastry made from thin pancakes, flavoured with sugar and cardamom. Typically prepared for special occasions or festivals, this dish is as delightful to the eyes as it is to the taste buds. It is often enjoyed with a warm cup of tea or coffee, making it an ideal companion for Kerala’s pleasant evenings.

11. Chakka Pradhaman

Jackfruit, or "Chakka" in Malayalam, is a key ingredient in Kerala's cuisine, and Chakka Pradhaman is a unique dessert that showcases this fruit in all its glory. Made with ripe jackfruit, coconut milk, and jaggery, this dessert offers a rich, sweet flavour with a creamy texture. It’s typically served during festivals and special occasions, and is a treat that every foodie should experience when in Kerala.

12. Idiyappam with Curry


Idiyappam, also known as string hoppers, is a delicate, lace-like dish made from steamed rice flour, formed into thin noodle-like strands. This light yet satisfying dish is a breakfast staple in Kerala, loved for its soft, melt-in-the-mouth texture. Paired with a variety of curries—be it a rich, coconut-based chicken curry, a mildly spiced vegetable stew, or even a creamy egg curry—Idiyappam offers a harmonious balance of flavours and textures. Often accompanied by a hint of grated coconut, this dish is a must-try for anyone wanting to experience the subtle elegance of Kerala cuisine.

13. Sundal

A popular street snack in Kerala, Sundal is made from chickpeas that are stir-fried with coconut and spices. It’s typically wrapped in leaves or paper, making it a perfect on-the-go snack. High in protein, it’s as nutritious as it is tasty— and you’ll often find it being sold at street corners, festivals, and markets across the state.

14. Kumbilappam (Steamed Jackfruit Dumplings)

Kumbilappam is a unique steamed snack made from raw jackfruit, rice flour, coconut, and jaggery. The mixture is wrapped in jackfruit leaves and steamed to perfection, creating a chewy, solid dumpling. A common snack during festivals, Kumbilappam showcases Kerala’s love for jackfruit in a delicious and filling form.

15. Erachipathiri (Stuffed Meat Flatbread)

Last but certainly not least, Erachipathiri is a traditional stuffed flatbread made with spiced meat, typically chicken, beef, or mutton. It’s a perfect example of Kerala’s rich food culture, where every meal is a celebration of bold flavours and intricate spices. Whether it's for a festive gathering or a family meal, this dish is a true reflection of Kerala’s culinary excellence. So, are you ready to explore Kerala’s culinary treasures? Let your taste buds take a journey through the heart of this coastal wonderland.

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