When in Kerala, this is what you must eat!

Its landscapes are to die for, its beaches stunning, its churches are some of the most beautifully made, and its cuisine is something that makes every trip worth it. Yes, we are thinking about Kerala, and there is no taking away from the glory of God’s Own Country. If you are a foodie on a trip to this green state, watch out for the lip-smacking dishes that the cuisine has to offer. And we are talking of much more than dosas, idlis and the famous ones. Here, I am writing down about some of my favourite Kerala dishes that you should just gorge over without counting calories!

Karimeen fry When in Kerala, there is no skipping karimeen fry. Search for a place that serves fresh catch of the Pearl Spot Fish, and you will not regret the efforts. The catch is fried in clay pots with a heavy dose of Kerala’s famous spices; once done, it looks almost like it has been grilled to perfection. Best served with tamarind sauce, sambar and rice. As as insider’s tip, I can share that the best karimeen fry is found at one of the house restaurants by the backwaters in Alleppey. If lucky, you can watch the preparations as well.

Malabari parotta
Our word, Malabari parottas would be the fluffiest parathas that you would have ever tasted. Layers and layers of goodness, these parathas are soft and crusty at the same time. You can choose from a variety of stuffing for these, or side them up with chicken Chettinad, karimeen fry, caramelised shallots and more.
Kaapi
Oh well, when in Kerala, there is no skipping cups of perfectly-brewed kaapi or filter coffee. You can find this at almost every restaurant in the state, especially at the traditional ones. It is the favourite drink of the locals, and comes pretty cheap. A cup can come for as low as INR 2o if you choose to have it at a regular sort of place.

Payasam
Another dessert, payasam is one dish that I do not forget to gorge over while in Kerala. A kheer like dish, it is made of broken rice, tapioca, vermicelli, and is topped with saffron, cardamom and some of the most heavenly flavours that you can think of.

Thalassery chicken biryani
While the rest of the country can keep debating whether Hyderabad’s biryani wins over Lucknow’s, you can simply hop over to God’s Own Country and dig into Thalassery chicken biryani and put your foodie soul to rest. A traditional recipe from North Kerala, it essentially uses khaima rice and uses chicken as the main ingredient. A heavy dose of fresh farm spices that Kerala is famous for brings out flavours that you could’ve never imagined! Do not skip.

Appam with sambar
As we are already thinking of idli, sambar, puttu and what not, it would be a sin to not mention appam. This fluffy thing made of freshly-ground rice flour, sugar and coconut milk comes close to a South Indian version of pancakes. You can further have a dash of chocolate syrup on it if you have a liking for fusion food.

Puttu with coconut curry
The first time I was served puttu, I believed it to be idli. Well, until I took a bit off it and figured that I had never tasted this one before. Made of rice and a whole lot of coconut shreds, it is surprisingly soft. So much so that you might not have to chew it at all. A perfect breakfast option, this is best had with some thoran.

While these are the must-have dishes on a trip to Kerala, I have some other favourites as well. If you have some more days in the state and an appetite for more treats, try tucking into idiyappam, erissery and fish molee too.