Kerala isn’t just God’s Own Country for its landscapes and backwaters, it’s also a paradise for food lovers. From spicy curries to sweet treats, Kerala’s cuisine hits every flavor note, and no Kerala trip is complete without indulging in these dishes. Whether you’re a street food fanatic, a foodie adventurer, or just someone who loves eating their way through travel, this guide is your ultimate starter pack. Here are 7 must-try Kerala dishes that will make your taste buds dance and leave you craving more.


1. Appam with Stew – Fluffy Pancakes That Hug Your Soul




If the best comfort dishes had a name in Kerala, it would be appam with stew. Appam is a soft, lacy pancake made from fermented rice batter, and the stew can be coconut-based with chicken, beef, or vegetables.

The magic? The stew seeps into the fluffy appam like a flavor hug. Best enjoyed for breakfast or dinner, this dish is perfect for starting your Kerala food tour on a cozy note.


Pro tip: Try it at local homestays, the homemade coconut milk adds a richness you won’t find in restaurants.

2. Kerala Sadya – A Feast on a Banana Leaf



Sadya is basically a food lover’s dream platter. Served on a banana leaf, it’s a multi-course vegetarian meal that can have 20+ dishes, rice, sambar, rasam, thoran, pachadi, and more.

It’s not just food; it’s an experience. Eating Sadya during festivals like Onam or at a traditional Kerala restaurant gives you a taste of culture and flavor all at once.


Why it’s magical: You’ll leave feeling full, happy, and culturally enriched. Also, it’s totally Instagrammable colorful food + banana leaf = visual perfection.


3. Puttu and Kadala Curry – The Breakfast Duo

Puttu is a cylindrical steamed rice cake layered with coconut, and kadala curry is a spicy black chickpea curry. Together, they are a breakfast combo that defines Kerala mornings.


The fluffy puttu perfectly balances the rich, spicy curry. Whether you’re at a roadside eatery or a boutique café, this dish is guaranteed to start your day with maximum flavor vibes.

Pro tip: Ask for extra coconut trust me, it makes a huge difference.

4. Karimeen Pollichathu – Fish Wrapped in Love


If seafood is your vibe, karimeen pollichathu is a must. This is pearl spot fish marinated in spices, wrapped in banana leaf, and grilled to perfection. The flavors are smoky, spicy, and tangy all at once.

Try it in Kochi or Alleppey for the freshest catch. Pair it with steamed rice or tapioca for a full-on coastal Kerala experience.

Vibe check: Fancy enough for a foodie bucket list, but casual enough to enjoy without pretension.

5. Malabar Parotta with Meat Curry – Flaky Magic

Kerala’s Malabar parotta is a flaky, layered flatbread that’s basically edible perfection. Pair it with a rich meat curry, and you have a meal that’s spicy, savory, and absolutely addictive.

You’ll find this combo in roadside joints, local eateries, and even luxury resorts. Every bite is layered with flavor and texture, literally.

Pro tip: Don’t rush this one. Tear off pieces, dip, and savor. It’s a slow-food kind of dish that deserves attention.


6. Banana Chips – Crunchy Snack Goals


Banana chips are Kerala’s snack superstar. Thinly sliced raw bananas fried in coconut oil and sprinkled with salt (or sugar for a sweet version) make for the perfect munching snack.

Grab a pack at local markets or from roadside stalls, they make a perfect travel snack and are great for gifting friends back home.

Why it’s iconic: Simple, addictive, and a must for your Kerala trip foodie haul.


7. Palada Payasam – Sweet Ending to Every Meal



No Kerala food experience is complete without a dessert, and palada payasam is the ultimate choice. This creamy rice pudding is made from rice ada (rice flakes), milk, and sugar, simmered to perfection and garnished with cashews and raisins.

It’s often served at Sadya or special occasions, and one spoonful feels like a hug from Kerala itself.

Vibe check: Sweet, comforting, and aesthetically perfect for your stories and reels.

Wrapping It Up

Kerala is more than backwaters and hill stations; it’s a food lover’s paradise. From appam with stew to palada payasam, every dish tells a story, blends flavors perfectly, and gives your Kerala trip that extra layer of magic.

Whether you’re cruising on a houseboat, exploring local markets, or chilling at a hill station café, make sure your taste buds are traveling as much as you are.

So pack your appetite, bring your camera, and let Kerala’s cuisine steal your heart, one bite at a time.