Looking around for Kerala foods in Kodaikanal? Give us a call for Best Foods!!!
Are you craving the delectable flavors of Kerala cuisine but find yourself in Kodaikanal? Well, worry no more because we have got you covered! Kerala is known for its rich and diverse culinary heritage, with a wide range of mouthwatering dishes that will leave your taste buds dancing. And lucky for you, Kodaikanal offers some fantastic options to indulge in authentic Kerala food right here. From traditional favorites like Puttu and kadala curry to tantalizing seafood delights like Karimeen pollichathu, there’s something for every palate. So if you’re on the hunt for the best Kerala food in Kodaikanal, look no further – just give us a call and get ready to embark on a flavorful journey!
Kerala cuisine: An Overview
Kerala cuisine is a feast for the senses, blending flavors from various historical and cultural influences. Known for its vibrant spices and use of coconut in almost every dish, Kerala food offers a unique culinary experience. Influenced by Arab, Dutch, Portuguese, and British traders who visited the region centuries ago, Kerala’s traditional dishes have evolved over time. From spicy curries to delicate seafood preparations and delectable desserts like Palada payasam, each dish showcases the rich heritage of this coastal state. The combination of aromatic spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and turmeric creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving for more.
What sets Kerala cuisine apart is its emphasis on fresh ingredients sourced from local farms and water bodies. With an abundance of coconuts along its coastline and backwaters teeming with fish and prawns, it’s no wonder that coconut milk-based gravies and seafood delicacies are highlights on every menu. Whether you’re savoring Puttu with kadala curry or relishing Thalassery biryani bursting with fragrant spices like fennel seeds – every bite tells a story of tradition passed down through generations. So get ready to tantalize your taste buds as we dive into some must-try Kerala food items available right here in Kodaikanal!
Historical and cultural influences
Kerala cuisine is a rich blend of flavors and unique cooking techniques that have been shaped by its historical and cultural influences. Over the centuries, Kerala has been influenced by various traders and invaders, including the Arabs, Portuguese, Dutch, and British. These interactions have left an indelible mark on the local food culture.
The Arab traders introduced spices like black pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves to Kerala. The Portuguese brought chili peppers from South America while also introducing ingredients like vinegar and tomatoes. The Dutch contributed to the development of plantations for spices such as nutmeg and mace. The British influence can be seen in dishes like beef curry which was a result of their introduction of cattle farming in Kerala.
These historical interactions combined with the region’s own indigenous traditions have resulted in a diverse culinary landscape that showcases different flavors from around the world but with a distinct Malayali touch. This fusion of influences makes Kerala cuisine truly unique and worth exploring during your visit to Kodaikanal!
Must-Try Kerala Food Items in Kodaikanal
Kodaikanal, known for its natural beauty and serene atmosphere, is also a haven for food enthusiasts. If you are in Kodaikanal and craving some authentic Kerala cuisine, look no further! Here are some must-try Kerala food items that will leave your taste buds tingling with delight.
First up is the classic combination of Puttu and Kadala Curry. Puttu, made from steamed rice flour mixed with grated coconut, is paired with spicy black chickpea curry to create a mouthwatering breakfast or snack option.
Another popular dish is Appam with Stew. These fluffy pancakes made from fermented rice batter have a crispy edge and soft center. They are typically served alongside a rich stew made with vegetables or meat cooked in coconut milk.
Whether you’re a seafood lover or not, Karimeen Pollichathu (fish) should be on your list of must-try dishes. This signature Kerala delicacy features fish marinated in tangy spices and wrapped in banana leaf before being grilled to perfection.
For those who enjoy indulging their taste buds in meat dishes, don’t miss out on Malabar Parotta paired with Kerala beef curry. The flaky layered parotta bread perfectly complements the robust flavors of the spicy beef curry.
Vegetarians will love Erissery – a flavorful pumpkin and lentil curry that combines sweetness from the pumpkin with earthiness from lentils all simmered together in coconut gravy.
To satisfy your sweet tooth cravings, try Palada Payasam – a delicious dessert made by slow-cooking rice flakes along with milk and sugar until it reaches creamy perfection.
Seafood lovers cannot afford to miss out on Kerala Prawn Curry (Chemmeen Curry). Made using freshly caught prawns cooked in aromatic spices and coconut milk gravy, this dish offers an explosion of flavors that will keep you wanting more!
If biryanis are what excite your palate, Thalassery Biryani is a must-try. This frag
Puttu and kadala curry
Puttu and kadala curry is a classic Kerala dish that you must try when visiting Kodaikanal. Puttu is a steamed rice cake made with ground rice and coconut, giving it a unique texture and flavor. It is often served with kadala curry, which is a delicious black chickpea curry cooked in aromatic spices like mustard seeds, onions, ginger, garlic, and coconut milk. The combination of soft puttu and spicy kadala curry creates an explosion of flavors in your mouth.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity yet rich taste. The delicate aroma of the steamed puttu blends perfectly with the creamy coconut-based kadala curry. Whether you are having it for breakfast or as an evening snack, puttu and kadala curry will definitely satisfy your taste buds. Don’t miss out on experiencing this delightful Kerala food while exploring the charming hill station of Kodaikanal!
Appam with stew
Appam with stew is a popular dish from the rich culinary heritage of Kerala. Appam, also known as hoppers, are soft and fluffy rice pancakes that have a slightly crispy edge. They are made using fermented rice batter and coconut milk, giving them a unique flavor. The stew that accompanies appam is usually made with vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and peas cooked in a flavorful coconut milk broth. The combination of the delicate appam and the comforting stew creates a harmonious blend of flavors that will leave you craving for more.
The secret to perfect appams lies in getting the right texture – thin and lacy at the edges but thick and spongy in the center. Traditionally served for breakfast or dinner, this dish can be enjoyed at any time of day. Whether you’re looking for something light yet satisfying or craving authentic Kerala cuisine, appam with stew is sure to hit all the right notes on your taste buds. So why wait? Give us a call today to experience this delightful culinary delight in Kodaikanal!
Karimeen pollichathu (fish)
Karimeen pollichathu, a popular fish dish from Kerala, is a culinary delight that shouldn’t be missed when exploring the flavors of Kodaikanal. This delectable preparation features pearl spot fish marinated in a blend of aromatic spices and cooked to perfection by wrapping it in banana leaves and grilling or steaming it. The result is a tender and flavorful fish infused with the rich flavors of coconut, curry leaves, ginger, garlic, and tangy tamarind.
The unique cooking technique used for Karimeen pollichathu imparts an irresistible smoky flavor to the dish. The banana leaf not only adds a distinct fragrance but also helps keep the fish moist and juicy during cooking. Served hot with steamed rice or appam (rice pancakes), this authentic Kerala delicacy promises to tantalize your taste buds with its perfect balance of spices and textures. Experience the true essence of Kerala cuisine by indulging in this mouthwatering treat during your visit to Kodaikanal!
Malabar Parotta with Kerala beef curry
When it comes to Kerala cuisine, one dish that you simply cannot miss is the delectable Malabar Parotta with Kerala beef curry. This mouth-watering combination is a true delight for food lovers. The Malabar Parotta, also known as Kerala Porotta, is a flaky and layered bread made from dough that is kneaded using all-purpose flour, oil or ghee, and water. It is then cooked on a griddle until it becomes golden brown and perfectly crispy.
The parottas are served hot with a side of fragrant and flavorful Kerala beef curry. Made with tender chunks of beef cooked in aromatic spices like turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and peppercorns along with onions, tomatoes, ginger-garlic paste, coconut milk,and curry leaves; this curry has a rich and spicy taste that will leave you craving for more. The combination of soft parottas soaked in the delicious gravy of the beef curry creates an explosion of flavors in your mouth that will take your taste buds on an unforgettable culinary journey through the streets of Kerala.
Erissery or pumpkin and lentil curry
Erissery is a delectable Kerala dish that combines the earthy flavors of pumpkin and lentils in a rich and creamy curry. This traditional dish is often served during festivals and special occasions, as it holds great cultural significance for the people of Kerala.
To prepare Erissery, chunks of pumpkin are cooked with lentils, coconut, spices, and a tangy tamarind paste. The result is a thick and aromatic curry that perfectly balances sweetness from the pumpkin with the nutty taste of lentils. It is best enjoyed with steamed rice or Malabar parotta to soak up all the flavors. With its unique combination of ingredients and satisfying textures, Erissery is definitely a must-try Kerala food when visiting Kodaikanal!
Palada payasam (dessert)
If you have a sweet tooth, then you must indulge in the heavenly delight of Palada Payasam. This traditional Kerala dessert is a rice pudding made with ada (rice flakes), milk, sugar, and ghee. The ada is cooked to perfection until it becomes soft and tender, resulting in a creamy texture that melts in your mouth.
The aroma of cardamom and the richness of coconut milk add an extra layer of flavor to this decadent dessert. It is often garnished with fried cashews and raisins for added crunchiness. Whether enjoyed warm or chilled, Palada Payasam is sure to satisfy your sweet cravings and leave you wanting more!
Kerala prawn curry (chemmeen curry)
Kerala prawn curry, also known as chemmeen curry, is a popular dish from the coastal region of Kerala. This delicious and flavorful curry is made with succulent prawns cooked in a rich blend of spices and coconut milk. The combination of tangy tamarind, aromatic spices like turmeric, chili powder, and coriander, along with the creamy coconut milk creates a tantalizingly tasty gravy that perfectly coats the juicy prawns.
The fresh flavors of this dish are enhanced by the addition of shallots, garlic, ginger, and curry leaves which lend their unique taste to the curry. The vibrant red color comes from using Kashmiri red chili powder which adds a mild heat to balance out the sweetness from the coconut milk. Served hot with steamed rice or appam (rice pancakes), Kerala prawn curry is a must-try for seafood lovers seeking an authentic taste of Kerala cuisine.
Thalassery biryani
Thalassery biryani, a culinary gem from the Malabar region of Kerala, is a must-try dish for all biryani lovers. What sets it apart from other biryanis is its unique blend of flavors and fragrant spices. The long-grained Basmati rice cooked with tender pieces of meat (usually chicken or mutton), caramelized onions, aromatic spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and star anise, along with the addition of fried cashews and raisins gives Thalassery biryani its distinct taste.
The layers of rice and meat are slow-cooked in dum style to allow the flavors to meld together perfectly. The result is a heavenly combination that will leave your taste buds craving for more. This delectable dish not only satisfies your hunger but also offers a glimpse into the rich culinary heritage of Kerala’s Malabar region. Whether you’re visiting Kodaikanal or any other place in India where Thalassery biryani is available, make sure to try this flavorful delight for an unforgettable gastronomic experience.
Fish moilee
Fish moilee is a popular Kerala dish that showcases the region’s rich culinary heritage. This delicacy features succulent fish cooked in coconut milk and an array of aromatic spices. The creamy texture of the coconut milk complements the tender fish perfectly, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. The addition of curry leaves, ginger, garlic, and green chilies adds depth and complexity to the dish. Fish moilee is typically served with steamed rice or appam, allowing you to savor every delicious bite.
The origins of this delectable seafood dish can be traced back to Kerala’s Malabar region. It is believed that fish moilee was influenced by Portuguese cuisine during their colonial rule in India. The use of coconut milk in cooking reflects Kerala’s coastal geography and abundance of coconuts. Today, fish moilee continues to be a beloved staple in Kodaikanal’s dining scene for both locals and tourists alike who crave a taste of authentic Kerala cuisine.
Banana fritters (dessert)
Kodaikanal, with its serene landscapes and cool climate, is a popular tourist destination in Tamil Nadu. And while the town may not be known for its Kerala cuisine, there are still plenty of options available for those craving some authentic flavors from God’s Own Country.
One delicious dessert that you must try when in Kodaikanal is Banana Fritters. This sweet treat is made by dipping ripe bananas in a batter made of flour, sugar, and spices before frying them to perfection. The result is a crispy exterior with a soft and sweet banana center.
Banana fritters are often enjoyed as an evening snack or even as a dessert after a hearty meal. They can be served plain or with a drizzle of honey or chocolate sauce for some added indulgence. Either way, they are sure to satisfy your cravings for something sweet.
So if you find yourself exploring the beautiful hills of Kodaikanal but yearning for the taste of Kerala food, look no further! With these must-try dishes like Puttu and kadala curry, Appam with stew, Karimeen pollichathu (fish), Malabar Parotta with Kerala beef curry, Erissery or pumpkin and lentil curry, Palada payasam (dessert), Kerala prawn curry (chemmeen curry), Thalassery biryani , Fish moilee,and Banana fritters at your disposal.
Give us a call now to experience the best of Kerala cuisine right here in Kodaikanal!