Kochi, often called the Queen of the Arabian Sea, hosts India's first and South Asia's longest-running contemporary art biennale. Beyond its vibrant art scene, the city boasts a deep culinary legacy. Its soothing and comforting flavors appeal to people of all ages. Here are twelve traditional dishes you absolutely must try when visiting Kochi.
Appam with stew
Appam with stew stands out as a delicious breakfast favorite in Kerala. These soft, lacy pancakes come from a fermented rice batter. They pair perfectly with a creamy stew made with vegetables, chicken, or meat. Coconut milk enriches the stew, giving it a delightful texture and taste.
Puttu and kadala curry
Puttu refers to a steamed cylindrical cake crafted from rice flour and grated coconut. Kadala curry is a flavorful black chickpea preparation. Together, they create a classic combo that locals and visitors love in Kochi.
Idiyappam with curry
Idiyappam is a traditional South Indian savory made from rice flour, water, and salt. Cooks press the dough into soft, thin strands resembling noodles. It typically comes served with a variety of curries that complement its mild flavor.
Kerala Parotta
Popularly known as Malabar paratha, this flaky flatbread uses flour, maida, oil, salt, and water. It often accompanies pickles or chutney. The parotta offers a satisfying texture and taste similar to North Indian parathas.
Kerala banana chips
These crispy snacks start with raw bananas sliced thin and deep-fried in oil. A sprinkle of spice powder adds zest, making them ideal for evening cravings alongside a cup of chai.
Pazham Pori
Also called Ethakka Appam, pazham pori is a deep-fried snack. Ripe Nendran bananas get coated in a batter of maida or rice flour, turmeric, and sugar. People enjoy this sweet treat with tea.
Kappa Biryani
This traditional Kerala-style biryani features kappa, or tapioca, as its base. Cooks combine it with spices, herbs, and meat. Slow cooking with onions, ginger-garlic, green chillies, curry leaves, and Kerala spices infuses the neutral kappa with robust flavors.
Kulluki sharbat
Kulluki sharbat is a refreshing beverage from Kerala. It boasts a sweet and tangy taste. The drink mixes lemon, chia seeds, basil seeds, sugar, chilli, and other spices for a quick mind and body refreshment.
Ela ada
Ela ada is a delectable sweet treat. It consists of rice flour, jaggery, coconut, and banana, all steamed in banana leaves. The soft outer layer contrasts with the rich, slightly chewy coconut-jaggery filling, offering comforting and nostalgic flavors.
Sadya
Sadya is a grand vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf. It includes more than twenty-eight dishes like avial, thoran, olan, pachadi, and payasam. This elaborate meal showcases Kerala's culinary diversity.
Chemmeen Curry
Also known as Prawn Curry, this main course dish features juicy prawns simmered in coconut milk with spices. It pairs excellently with steamed rice, highlighting Kochi's coastal influences.
Palada Payasam
Palada payasam is a must-have dessert. It uses rice ada, milk, and sugar, slow-cooked to perfection. Garnished with coconut and dry fruits, it is served fresh and delights sweet lovers.
