Assortment of several food items

Kerala Cuisines: The Traditional Food of Kerala

Kerala is known for its rich culture, stunning natural beauty, and delicious cuisine. Kerala cuisine is a blend of flavours, aromas, and textures that are unique to this region. The traditional food of Kerala is an integral part of the state's cultural identity and is known for its use of coconut, spices, and herbs. Kerala's cuisine is diverse, ranging from vegetarian dishes to seafood and meat-based dishes. Let us explore the traditional food of Kerala, including some of the most famous Kerala cuisines and the significance of food in Kerala's social and cultural traditions.

Rice and curry on banana leaf

The Traditional Food of Kerala


The traditional food of Kerala is deeply rooted in the state's history and culture. Kerala cuisine is largely influenced by its geography and climate, as well as the state's trade relations with other countries. The cuisine is characterized by the use of fresh and locally sourced ingredients, including coconut, rice, spices, and herbs. Rice is the staple food of Kerala, and it is usually served with a variety of side dishes, such as sambar, rasam, and thoran. The use of coconut is also prominent in Kerala cuisine, and it is used in different forms, such as grated, roasted, or ground into a paste. Kerala's cooking techniques are also diverse, with dishes being prepared through boiling, frying, steaming, and baking.

Famous Kerala Cuisines

 
Kerala cuisines are famous for their unique blend of flavours and spices that tantalize the taste buds. Among the most popular dishes are Appam and Stew, which consists of a thin pancake made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, served with a vegetable or meat stew. Puttu and Kadala Curry, a breakfast staple in Kerala, consists of steamed rice cakes served with a curry made from black chickpeas. Meen Curry, a fish curry made with coconut milk and spices, is another favourite among seafood lovers. And lastly, Malabar Parotta and Chicken Curry is a popular street food in Kerala, with flaky layered flatbread served with a spicy chicken curry. These dishes not only showcase the delicious and unique flavours of Kerala cuisines, but also reflect the state's rich culinary heritage.

Puttu served with banana and two cups of hot tea
A complete Onam sadhya spread on a banana leaf

Kerala Food Culture


Food plays a significant role in Kerala's social and cultural traditions. Kerala is known for its diverse and delicious cuisine, and food is an integral part of its identity. One of the most important festivals in Kerala is Onam, which celebrates the harvest season and is a time for family gatherings, feasting, and cultural events. During Onam, traditional dishes such as Onam Sadhya, a vegetarian meal served on a banana leaf, are prepared and shared among family and friends.

Kerala's traditional cuisine is a treasure trove of diverse flavours and tastes that are deeply rooted in its cultural heritage. If you're planning a trip to Kerala, we recommend staying at Rhythm Kumarakom, where you can immerse yourself in the state's rich culinary traditions. Don't miss out on the chance to indulge in the local dishes like Appam and Stew, Malabar Parotta and more, which are some of the most popular and delicious dishes of Kerala cuisines. So come and explore the culinary delights of Kerala while experiencing the warm hospitality of Rhythm Kumarakom.

Rhythm Kumarakom - appam vada puri and a side dish on a table