Kerala Cuisine: 21 Famous Kerala Foods & Traditional Dishes to Try
No wonder food lovers can’t stop raving about Kerala’s mouth-watering cuisine! A delightful blend of Malabari, French, and Arabian flavors—seasoned with the soul of Kerala’s rich culture—each dish is a culinary adventure worth savoring. Whether it’s the grand vegetarian feast of Sadya, the flavorful non-veg delights made with fresh seafood, lamb, or beef, or the irresistible sweet and savory treats, Kerala’s food scene promises an unforgettable ride for your taste buds. Our curated collection of Kerala food images with names is sure to leave you craving more!
Overview of Kerala Cuisine
Kerala’s staple food is a true reflection of the state’s rich history and vibrant culture. It brings together a harmonious mix of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, with the latter often featuring fish, poultry, and red meat. At the heart of most iconic Kerala dishes are three key ingredients: rice, fish, and coconut. The bold and aromatic flavors come alive with the use of spices like chillies, curry leaves, mustard seeds, turmeric, tamarind, black pepper, cardamom, cloves, ginger, cinnamon, and asafoetida—creating a cuisine that’s both comforting and full of character.
While traditional Kerala cuisine—like the iconic Sadya served during festivals and special occasions—is primarily vegetarian, modern-day Kerala boasts a rich variety of non-vegetarian delights too. A signature touch you’ll find in most dishes is the unmistakable flavor of coconut, thanks to the common use of grated coconut and coconut milk for both thickening and enhancing taste.
So, if you thought Kerala’s culinary treasures end at idlis and dosas, think again! Our curated list of Kerala food items, complete with mouth-watering images, is here to change your perspective. Come explore this coastal paradise and treat yourself to a feast of flavors you won’t soon forget!
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Here is a list of 21 Kerala Food that you must try
Get ready to explore some of the most beloved dishes that define Kerala’s rich culinary heritage! From hearty vegetarian meals to flavorful non-vegetarian delights, this list has something to spice up your Kerala travel experience. Jot these down and make sure to indulge in them on your next trip to God’s Own Country!
1. Idiyappam With Curry
Idiyappam, also known as Noolappam in Kerala cuisine, is one of the most loved traditional dishes of the state. Made from a simple mix of rice flour, salt, and water, this dish stands out for its delicate web of thin strands, giving it a light and airy texture. That unique texture is what makes Idiyappam so versatile—it pairs beautifully with a variety of curries. But if you want the ultimate experience, try it with a rich and flavorful egg curry—it’s a match made in culinary heaven!
2. Erissery (Pumpkin And Lentil Stew)
Erissery is a beloved Kerala delicacy enjoyed by both locals and visitors alike. A staple in most Kerala households, this flavorful curry is traditionally made using raw plantains or sliced yams. It features a comforting blend of mildly sweet pumpkin, cooked with dried lentils, grated coconut, garlic, cumin seeds, turmeric, and a hint of spice from chillies or pepper. Typically served over a bed of rice, Erissery is especially popular during festive occasions like Onam. For food lovers eager to discover unique and authentic flavors, this dish is a must-try on any Kerala culinary journey!
3. Puttu And Kadala Curry
Puttu with Kadala Curry is a cherished traditional breakfast in Kerala and a favorite among locals. Puttu, a cylindrical steamed rice cake layered with grated coconut, is prepared in a special mould and served hot. Often enjoyed with ripe bananas, more grated coconut, or the flavorful Kadala Curry (Kerala’s take on black chickpeas), this humble dish surprises many with its rich taste. Don’t let its simplicity fool you—Puttu is packed with comforting, authentic flavours that truly represent the essence of Kerala cuisine.
4. Appam With Ishtu (Stew)
Appam with stew is one of Kerala’s most beloved traditional dishes—and for good reason! Appam is a soft, bowl-shaped pancake with lacy, crispy edges, made from fermented rice flour, coconut milk, coconut water, and a hint of sugar. Light yet flavorful, it’s the perfect match for Ishtu—a creamy stew inspired by European recipes but infused with Kerala’s signature ingredients like coconut milk, cinnamon, cloves, and shallots. Sometimes enhanced with mango pieces or vegetables, this comforting combo fills the air with a warm blend of spices and coconut aroma that’s sure to draw food lovers straight to the kitchen!
5. Ela Sadya
Ela Sadya is truly the crown jewel of traditional Kerala cuisine—a grand feast that’s sure to make your mouth water with its rich aroma and vibrant presentation. Often regarded as the king of all Kerala meals, Sadya is an elaborate spread served during festivals, weddings, and other special occasions. This royal vegetarian banquet features an incredible variety of dishes—like pachadi, kichadi, pulissery, olan, sambar, varavu, thoran, aviyal, and the sweet finale, payasam—all beautifully laid out on a fresh banana leaf alongside steaming hot rice. With its explosion of flavours and colours, this iconic meal could easily rival the grandeur of even the most lavish thalis, like those at Chokhi Dhani!
6. Parippu Curry (Dal Curry)
If you’re on the hunt for some truly satisfying food in Kerala, don’t miss out on Parippu Curry—a simple yet incredibly flavorful local delicacy. While it might come across as just another dal dish, this version is anything but ordinary. Made with moong dal (small gram), a generous drizzle of ghee, and a bold blend of spices and chillies, Parippu Curry is a comforting, aromatic treat that stands out on any Kerala platter. So, don’t brush it off as your everyday ‘ghar ki dal’—you’d be missing out on one of Kerala’s most delightful surprises!
7. Dosa Ghee Roast With Kerala Style Sambar
Food has a magical way of bringing people together, and if you’re craving the best culinary experience in Kerala, you simply have to try the Ghee Roast Dosa paired with Kerala-style Sambar. Bursting with bold, aromatic flavours, this combo is an absolute treat for your taste buds! Ranked among the ‘World’s 50 Most Delicious Foods’, dosa and sambar are iconic staples of Kerala’s food scene. The dosa, made from fermented rice and lentils, is generously cooked in pure ghee and roasted to golden, crispy perfection. It’s no exaggeration—this is truly one of the must-try dishes in all of Kerala!
8. Idli Sambar
Craving some classic South Indian flavors while in Kerala? Then you can’t go wrong with a comforting plate of Idli Sambar—one of the most popular and healthiest breakfast options in the state. This beloved combo of soft, steamed rice cakes paired with a tangy, spiced lentil and vegetable curry is not just a Kerala staple but a favorite across India. Light, nutritious, and packed with flavor, Idli Sambar hits the sweet spot between taste and health. Whether you’re starting your day or simply in the mood for something wholesome, this dish is a must-try in Kerala!
9. Nadan Kozhi Varuthathu (Spicy Chicken Fry)
Looking to fire up your taste buds? Then don’t miss out on one of Kerala’s fiery favourites—spicy chicken fry or Kerala-style prawn curry! While Kerala doesn’t have one official “national dish,” Nadan Kozhi Varuthathu (traditional fried chicken) definitely tops the list of must-try delights. Cooked with a bold mix of spices, garlic, onions, and vinegar, and often served on a banana leaf, this crispy chicken dish is bursting with flavour. It pairs perfectly with chapatis, Kerala Parotta (a flaky, layered flatbread), appam, or even rice. Also a hit as street food, it’s sometimes served alongside dosa too. Try it once, and trust us—you might just forget all about KFC!
10. Kerala Style Prawn Curry
If you’re a non-vegetarian visiting Kerala, you’re in for a delicious experience—especially when you try Karimeen Pollichathu, one of the most iconic dishes in Kerala’s coastal cuisine. This traditional delicacy is a must for seafood lovers, particularly fans of prawn dishes! The prawns are generously spiced with chilli, black pepper, turmeric, and salt, then slow-cooked in rich coconut milk with a touch of jaggery for that perfect balance of heat and sweetness. Finished with fragrant curry leaves, this flavorful dish pairs beautifully with steaming rice or soft chapatis. Sampling this mouthwatering seafood treat is truly one of the top culinary experiences to enjoy in Kerala!
11. Karimeen Pollichathu (Fish)
When in Kerala, immerse yourself in its rich food culture by treating yourself to the traditional Kerala-style Fish Molee. One of the state’s most iconic dishes, Karimeen Pollichathu is made using the prized Pearl Spot Fish, found abundantly in the serene backwaters of Alleppey and Kumarakom. Originally a delicacy from the Syrian Christian community, it has now become a celebrated part of Kerala’s culinary heritage. The fish is marinated in a zesty blend of lemon juice, red chillies, and a variety of aromatic spices, then lovingly wrapped in plantain leaves and baked to perfection. This unique method of preparation infuses the fish with bold, smoky flavors that are simply unforgettable—one bite, and you’ll be hooked!
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12. Kerala Style Fish Molee
A true gem of Kerala cuisine, Kerala-style Fish Molee is a dish that wins hearts—both of locals and visitors alike. Infused with the rich essence of coconut milk and the tangy punch of kudampuli (also known as kokum), this delicacy is a burst of bold, unforgettable flavours. It’s a must-try for every seafood enthusiast looking to elevate their dining experience. One bite of this creamy, aromatic curry and you’ll understand why it’s a standout in Kerala’s vibrant culinary landscape!
13. Nadan Beef (Kerala Style Beef)
Kerala stands out as one of the few places in India where beef is widely enjoyed without restriction or hesitation. Nadan Beef, a beloved local specialty, is either slow-roasted or simmered in a rich, flavorful gravy until it reaches a tender, melt-in-the-mouth texture. Often paired with flaky Kerala Porotta, soft chapatis, or steaming rice, this hearty dish is a must for beef lovers. If you’re a fan of bold, meaty flavors, consider this yet another delicious reason to plan a trip to Kerala!
14. Thalassery Biryani
Biryani in Kerala? Absolutely—and it’s as exotic as it gets! When it comes to rich, aromatic rice dishes, Kerala knows how to impress. The cities of Calicut and Thalassery are especially famous for serving up some of the most irresistible biryanis in the state. Pair a generous helping of Kozhikode or Thalassery Biryani with spicy Chicken 65 or a sizzling Chilli Chicken Stir Fry, and you’ve got yourself the ultimate biryani feast. Trust us, this is one culinary experience you won’t want to miss!
15. Kallumakkaya Ularthiyathu (Mussel Stir Fry)
Kerala is a paradise for seafood lovers, offering an endless array of flavorful dishes that showcase the state’s culinary diversity. Each seafood recipe carries a distinct flair, and Kallumakkaya Ularthiyathu (spicy mussel stir-fry) is no exception. The mussels are meticulously cleaned and then cooked with a fragrant mix of shallots, garlic, chillies, turmeric, garam masala, and plenty of freshly grated coconut. Though this dish takes time and patience to prepare, the end result is an explosion of flavor that’s absolutely worth the wait—you’ll be licking your fingers clean before you even realize it!
16. Erachi Varutharacha Curry (Fried-Ground Mutton Curry)
Erachi Varutharacha is truly the crown jewel of non-vegetarian Kerala cuisine, though you’ll rarely find it listed on restaurant menus. A treasured recipe from Kerala’s Syrian Christian community, this traditional delicacy is all about bold, homemade flavors. The dish is crafted by roasting and grinding aromatic spices, then blending them into a rich base of tender mutton, onions, and tomatoes. The result? A deeply flavorful curry that’s unlike any mutton dish you’ve ever tasted—an unforgettable culinary experience waiting to be savored!
17. Malabar Parota
True to its name, the Malabar Parotta hails from the coastal Malabar region and is one of Kerala’s most iconic breads. Known for its crispy, flaky layers and slightly crumbly texture, it offers a delightful balance of savory richness with a hint of sweetness. If you’re planning a trip to Kerala, this parotta is an absolute must-try—you might just find yourself (and your loved ones) hooked on its irresistible taste!
Famous Desserts in Kerala Cuisine
These mouth-watering desserts are so irresistible, they’ll have you rushing to the kitchen to satisfy your sweet cravings. Don’t wait—treat yourself to these delightful indulgences right away!
18. Palada Payasam
Palada Payasam, a beloved gem among Kerala’s traditional dishes, has captured the hearts of dessert lovers across the country. This creamy rice kheer, made with palada (rice flakes), milk, sugar, and a touch of ghee, is especially cherished during festive celebrations like Onam. Among the many versions of payasam, this one stands out for its simplicity, elegance, and rich, comforting flavor that lingers long after the last spoonful.
19. Ethakka Appam (Banana Fritters)
Pazham Pori and Ethakka Appam are two delightful variations of banana fritters that hold a special place in Kerala’s teatime traditions. Made by coating ripe bananas in a simple flour batter and deep-frying them to golden perfection, these crispy treats are a staple in many local homes. Whether you pair them with a hot cup of tea or coffee, these classic Kerala snacks are a must-try before you wrap up your trip!
20. Ada Pradhaman
Ada Pradhaman is another irresistible variety of payasam that beautifully represents the rich food culture of Kerala. Made with soft rice flakes (ada) simmered in sweet, creamy coconut milk, this dessert is a true festive indulgence. Often hailed as the king of Kerala sweets, it’s a crowd-favorite during special occasions—and just one spoonful is enough to win your heart!
21. Chatti Pathiri
While Kerala offers a wide range of delicious vegetarian dishes, one sweet treat you simply can’t miss is Palada Payasam—a creamy, delightful dessert loved across the state. And if you’re in the mood for something truly unique, Chatti Pathiri is a must-try! Originating from the North Malabar and Malabar regions, this layered delicacy is Kerala’s answer to lasagna—but with a twist. Instead of cheese sheets, it uses soft pancakes made from flour, eggs, oil, and water. The real magic lies in its filling—sweetened beaten eggs, nuts, and raisins, all flavored with the warm aroma of cardamom. One bite, and you might just forget about crepes and pastries from the West!
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And to wash it all down, try a glass of Pathimugam water. Made by boiling the heartwood of the Pathimugam tree (also known as sappanwood or East Indian redwood), this herbal drink has been part of Kerala’s wellness traditions for centuries. Known for its medicinal properties, it’s not only refreshing but also incredibly good for your health.
Still craving more? Treat your taste buds to an unforgettable culinary adventure with the diverse and delicious flavors of Kerala cuisine! Plan an exciting getaway to Kerala with Skysafar Tourism and immerse yourself in everything this vibrant state has to offer. And hey, don’t keep it to yourself—share the food love with your fellow foodie friends too!
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