Kerala is the land of spices that enhances the flavor of cuisines, in India and all around the world. The cuisine in Kerala revolves around these spices, which is medicinal as well. As with all places, Kerala cuisine is steeped in the state’s history, culture, demography, and geography.
History
The cuisine of Kerala is heavily influenced by a different type of people who migrated to India over the years, which include Portuguese, and British, to name a few. However, the cuisine of Kerala has evolved and is unique to the state. Kerala, being a predominantly Hindu state, was a haven for vegetarian food at one point in time. With the arrival of Christians, and Muslims, the number of non-vegetarians increased and this is reflected in the cuisine as well. For instance, in the early days, Hindus were not used to consuming meat which has changed ever since.
The influence of coconut is seen in almost all food items prepared under Kerala cuisine; various products of coconut that range from the fruit to water and toddy can be seen as being used at different regions of Kerala. Also, various types of fishes along with egg have been a staple of Kerala cuisine for quite some time.
Kerala Sadya, Stew, Biriyani and Payasam
Kerala Sadya is a very important style of cuisine only seen in this state and hence has ample significance. An elaborate feast to celebrate special and auspicious occasions, a full course Sadya consists of rice with 18 to 20 different curries served in a banana leaf; a truly traditional feast.
Stew which is brought forth to Kerala by Syrian Christians along with Patthiri, a paper-thin pancake instrumental to Muslims and Dosa, pancakes made by Hindus, all have significance in Kerala cuisine.
Meat-rice, known as erachi-chor in the local language, is prepared in a mud pot with a banana leaf covering it. Biriyani is a mixed rice dish that is made with semi-cooked rice, meat, vegetables, meat, and egg, is popular among all people of Kerala and India. Biriyani is believed to influence the Iraqi Kurdistan area in Iraq, which is predominantly inhabited by Muslims.
Paal (Milk) Payasam: A dessert, confined to Kerala, is made with rice, wheat or vermicelli boiled in milk and sweetened with sugar. Cashew nuts and raisins are added to enhance the flavor.
Spices
Spices used in the cuisine include pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove to name a few. These medicinal plant products enhance the flavor while making the food more healthy and safe to consume.
Preparations of food
There are various types of ways a particular vegetable or non-vegetable dish can be prepared in Kerala cuisine. Local delicacies are a treat to have & one can experience the traditional taste of nature through Kerala cuisine.
Amaze your palate!!!
With so many delectable elements available in Kerala cuisine, the food from Kerala is a must-have for anyone. Enjoy the sweet and savory delicacies that can wow your palate!
