What to eat in Kerala? Here are the best picks
What's the story
Kerala, a southern Indian state, is known for its culinary diversity.
Its breakfast dishes, ranging from steamed rice cakes to fermented rice pancakes, reflect the local culture and ingredients.
These meals not only give a glimpse into Kerala's traditional cooking methods but also provide the necessary nourishment.
Here's taking a look at the popular breakfast options that showcase this variety.
Rice cakes
Idli and sambar: A classic combination
Idli, prepared with fermented rice and lentil batter, is a staple breakfast dish in Kerala.
These soft, fluffy cakes are usually accompanied by sambar, a spicy lentil soup loaded with vegetables.
The fermentation process makes idlis more nutritious by increasing their protein content.
Not only is this combination filling, but it is also easy to digest, hence, an ideal start to the day.
Fermented pancakes
Appam with stew: A delightful pairing
Another popular breakfast choice in Kerala is appam.
These thin pancakes come with crispy edges and soft centers, thanks to their unique preparation method using fermented rice batter and coconut milk.
They are often paired with vegetable stew cooked in coconut milk infused with spices like cinnamon and cloves.
This pairing offers a balance of flavors that appeals to both locals and visitors alike.
Steamed cylinders
Puttu with kadala curry: A hearty meal
A cylindrical steamed cake made from coarsely ground rice flour layered with grated coconut, puttu is the heart and soul of Kerala breakfast.
Traditionally served with kadala curry, black chickpeas are cooked in aromatic spices like turmeric powder or coriander seeds paste and simmered till tender perfection.
This hearty meal keeps you energized all through busy mornings while pampering your taste buds at the same time.
Crepe Delights
Dosa variations: Endless possibilities
Dosa comes in different avatars in different parts of Kerala itself!
From plain dosas made with fermented batter of rice and lentils mixture; to masala dosas stuffed generously with spiced potato fillings; to rava dosas made with semolina instead- there's really something for everyone to enjoy these delicious crepes any time of the day.