Traditional Kerala Cuisine: Must-Try Dishes in Thekkady

Kerala, often referred to as “God’s Own Country,” is a paradise for food lovers. Its cuisine is a rich blend of native spices, fresh seafood, and a wide array of vegetarian dishes, which are deeply influenced by the region’s cultural diversity, geography, and history. Thekkady, located in the Idukki district of Kerala, is a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers, but it’s also a haven for foodies looking to explore the flavors of traditional Kerala cuisine. From aromatic rice dishes to spicy curries and delectable sweets, Thekkady offers a taste of Kerala’s unique culinary heritage.

In this article, we’ll take you through some of the must-try dishes in Thekkady that will delight your senses and leave you craving more.

1. Kerala Sadya (Traditional Feast)

A visit to Thekkady would be incomplete without indulging in a traditional Kerala Sadya. This elaborate meal is typically served on a banana leaf and consists of a variety of vegetarian dishes, each more flavorful than the last. The Sadya is a feast fit for a king, often enjoyed during festivals, weddings, or special occasions. The experience is all about variety and balance, with sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors coming together in perfect harmony.

Some of the key dishes that form part of a Kerala Sadya include:

• Sambar: A tangy and spicy lentil stew cooked with vegetables.
• Avial: A medley of vegetables cooked in a coconut-based gravy.
• Thoran: Stir-fried vegetables with coconut and mustard seeds.
• Kaalan: A yogurt-based curry with vegetables like raw banana or yam.
• Pachadi: A sweet-sour yogurt dish with vegetables like pineapple or cucumber.
• Pickles: Kerala’s famous pickles, made from mango, lime, or ginger, add an intense burst of flavor to the meal.

To complete the feast, Payasam, a traditional Kerala dessert, is served. This sweet dish is made from rice or lentils, milk, and jaggery, and is usually flavored with cardamom, coconut, and cashews.

2. Appam with Stew

Appam, a type of soft and fluffy pancake made from fermented rice batter, is one of the most beloved breakfast dishes in Kerala. In Thekkady, Appam is typically paired with a stew, a light yet flavorful curry made with vegetables, chicken, or meat, cooked in coconut milk and delicately spiced with cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom. The combination of the soft Appam and the creamy stew is a comforting and satisfying meal, perfect for starting the day.

3. Kerala Parotta with Beef Curry

No trip to Kerala is complete without trying the iconic Kerala Parotta, a flaky, layered flatbread that pairs perfectly with a variety of curries. In Thekkady, one of the most popular accompaniments to Parotta is Beef Curry. This dish features tender chunks of beef slow-cooked in a spicy and aromatic gravy, often flavored with roasted coconut, fennel, and garam masala. The rich, hearty curry is best enjoyed by tearing off pieces of Parotta and dipping them into the flavorful gravy.

The delicious combination of Parotta and Beef Curry is a must-try for anyone visiting Thekkady, especially meat lovers.

4. Fish Moilee

Given Kerala’s extensive coastline, seafood is a prominent feature of its cuisine, and Thekkady, although inland, is not far behind in offering some of the best seafood dishes. Fish Moilee is a popular Kerala-style fish curry, made with tender fish fillets simmered in a coconut milk-based gravy. This dish is a perfect balance of spice and creaminess, with the coconut milk mellowing the heat from the green chilies and black pepper. The addition of curry leaves, mustard seeds, and turmeric gives the curry a distinctive, earthy flavor.

Fish Moilee is often served with steamed rice, making it a comforting and fulfilling meal.

5. Kadala Curry with Puttu

Another staple dish of Kerala is Kadala Curry, a hearty black chickpea curry that is often served with Puttu, a steamed rice cake. The Kadala Curry is cooked with a blend of spices, including turmeric, coriander, and cumin, and is often finished off with a tempering of mustard seeds and curry leaves. This combination is a popular breakfast dish in Kerala, but it can be enjoyed at any time of the day.

The soft, cylindrical Puttu made from rice flour is an ideal accompaniment to the spicy and flavorful Kadala Curry, providing a perfect contrast in texture.

6. Karimeen Pollichathu

One of the most iconic fish dishes in Kerala is Karimeen Pollichathu (pearl spot fish), which is prepared by marinating the fish with a blend of aromatic spices, wrapping it in a banana leaf, and then grilling or pan-frying it. The banana leaf imparts a unique flavor to the fish, while the spices make every bite an explosion of taste. This dish is a must-try in Thekkady for those who love seafood, and it’s typically served with rice or Kerala’s famous Malabar parotta.

7. Unniyappam

For those with a sweet tooth, Unniyappam is an absolute must-try in Thekkady. These deep-fried rice and jaggery balls are made with a mixture of rice flour, jaggery, coconut, and banana, and are flavored with cardamom and sesame seeds. The result is a sweet and crunchy treat that is perfect for snacking or as a dessert after a hearty meal. Unniyappam is a popular offering in Kerala’s temples and is often enjoyed during festivals.

8. Sadhya Payasam (Pradhaman)

As mentioned earlier, Payasam is the traditional Kerala dessert, but Thekkady has its own unique variation, known as Pradhaman. This dessert is made with jaggery, coconut milk, and either rice, lentils, or tapioca, depending on the recipe. The dish is flavored with cardamom, and the addition of cashews and raisins adds a delightful crunch and sweetness. Pradhaman is often served as part of the Kerala Sadya, but you can also enjoy it as a standalone treat.

9. Banana Chips

Kerala is known for its crispy and addictive banana chips, made from raw bananas thinly sliced and deep-fried until golden brown. The chips are lightly salted, making them the perfect snack to munch on during your exploration of Thekkady. They are often served as an accompaniment to meals, but you can also find them sold in small shops throughout the region, ready to take home as souvenirs.

10. Tapioca and Fish Curry (Kappa and Meen Curry)

Another beloved dish in Kerala, and a popular choice in Thekkady, is Kappa and Meen Curry. The combination of boiled tapioca (Kappa) and spicy fish curry is a classic comfort food in Kerala. The boiled tapioca, which has a starchy, slightly chewy texture, pairs wonderfully with the rich and tangy fish curry made from fresh catch and traditional Kerala spices.

This dish is perfect for a filling lunch or dinner and gives you a true taste of Kerala’s rustic food culture.

Conclusion

Kerala’s cuisine is a true reflection of the state’s natural bounty, cultural diversity, and vibrant traditions. Thekkady, with its serene landscapes and proximity to the Western Ghats, offers an ideal setting to explore these flavors. From the complex flavors of Sadya to the comforting delights of Appam with Stew and Kappa with Meen Curry, the food in Thekkady is sure to leave a lasting impression. Whether you’re a meat lover, a vegetarian, or someone with a sweet tooth, Thekkady’s culinary offerings have something for everyone.

Next time you find yourself in this beautiful destination, make sure to indulge in these traditional Kerala dishes for an unforgettable gastronomic experience.