What to eat in Wayanad? We've got the best picks!
What's the story
Wayanad, Kerala, India, holds a special allure.
Its verdant landscapes are not its only treasures; the region's distinct culinary heritage, rooted in tribal cultures, beckons food lovers.
The street breakfasts in Wayanad are more than just meals; they're an immersion into a vibrant tapestry of flavors and traditions passed down through generations.
This article explores the unmissable dishes and where to find them amidst Wayanad's breathtaking greenery.
Morning delight
Discovering puttu and kadala curry
The undisputed champion of Kerala's street breakfast scene, puttu and kadala curry, reaches new heights in Wayanad.
This local spin uses traditional spices, amping up the taste.
Puttu, a steamed rice cake layered with coconut shavings, complements the spicy black chickpea curry perfectly.
At approximately ₹50, it's a budget-friendly and hearty way to kickstart your day.
Tribal treats
The magic of tribal pancakes
Wayanad's morning meal game is strong, thanks to tribal pancakes crafted from ragi or millet.
Packed with nutrients and deep tribal culinary history, these pancakes are a delicious treat with a side of homemade wild honey or banana slices.
And at just ₹30 a plate from local stalls, they're a sweet and healthy deal to kickstart your day.
Unique breakfast
Savoring bamboo rice porridge
Bamboo rice porridge, a delicacy of Wayanad, embodies the region's tribal legacy.
It's crafted from seeds of the flowering bamboo, a plant shrouded in tribal folklore and bursting with nutrients.
This porridge boasts a distinct flavor, setting it apart from typical rice dishes. It's usually accompanied by fiery pickles or a refreshing coconut chutney.
A bowl is priced at approximately ₹40 at street food stalls in forested areas.
Root revival
Tapioca dishes: A staple reimagined
Tapioca is both a beloved staple and a versatile ingredient in many of Wayanad's street breakfast options.
From boiled tapioca served with spicy fish curry to tapioca biryani infused with local spices, these dishes demonstrate the transformative potential of this root vegetable.
Prices depend on the dish but generally range from ₹60 to ₹100 at different eateries across Wayanad.
Breakfast wisdom
Tips for enjoying street breakfasts safely
While enjoying street food is a big part of the experience when traveling to Wayanad, it's important to be cautious to avoid getting sick.
Always pick stalls that are clean and busy (a lot of locals means they use fresh ingredients and change them often), drink only sealed bottled water, and carry a hand sanitizer and use it before eating.