Coconut-based ingredients and foods that make Kerala cuisine delicious
Kerala, a state in southern India, is renowned for its unique cuisine that prominently features coconut. This ingredient, used in forms such as milk, oil, and grated, adds a distinct flavor and richness to the dishes. We explore vegan delights from Kerala that celebrate coconut in all its glory, showcasing its versatility in enhancing both savory meals and sweet desserts.
A staple ingredient: Coconut milk
Coconut milk is the backbone of many Kerala vegan recipes. It's made by blending the white flesh of mature coconuts with water and then straining it to obtain a creamy liquid. This milk is not only rich in vitamins and minerals but also lends a sweet, creamy texture to dishes without the need for dairy. It's perfect for curries, desserts, and even beverages.
The ultimate comfort food: Avial
Avial is a quintessential dish from Kerala, both nutritious and full of flavor. It's a thick concoction of various vegetables such as carrots, beans, potatoes, and plantains. These are all cooked together in coconut milk, then seasoned with curry leaves and mustard seeds. Its simplicity, combined with the subtle flavors that are enhanced by the coconut milk's sweetness, makes avial uniquely special.
A sweet treat: Paal payasam
Paal payasam, a cherished dessert in Kerala's culinary repertoire, demonstrates coconut milk's versatility beyond savory applications. This simple rice pudding combines rice, coconut milk, and sugar or jaggery, a traditional unrefined sugar. It's delicately garnished with cardamom for its aromatic qualities. The outcome is a dessert that offers a rich flavor, proving to be both comforting and luxurious.
Health benefits galore
Coconut-based dishes in Kerala's cuisine are rich in health benefits. Coconut milk, high in lauric acid, offers antimicrobial properties. It's also lactose-free, serving as a great dairy alternative for those with lactose intolerance or vegans. Yet, it's high in calories, so moderation is essential. Kerala's vegan dishes highlight coconut's versatility, enhancing both savory meals and sweet desserts while providing health advantages.
