Kerala, also known as "God's Own Country," is not just famous for its serene backwaters and beautiful beaches, but also for its rich culinary heritage. The flavors of Kerala are a blend of different spices and ingredients, making it a paradise for food lovers. If you are planning a family tour to Kerala, then experiencing its culinary delights should definitely be on your itinerary.
The traditional cuisine of Kerala is primarily vegetarian, with an array of delicious dishes made from locally grown vegetables, lentils, and coconut. Rice is the staple food of Kerala, and you will find a variety of preparations like rice dumplings (idli), steamed rice cakes (appam), and rice pancakes (dosa) being served with a side of chutneys and sambar.
One of the highlights of Kerala cuisine is the use of coconut in almost every dish. Coconut oil is used for cooking, and grated coconut is used for garnishing. The flavors of curry leaves, mustard seeds, and tamarind are also prominent in Kerala dishes.
As Kerala is blessed with a long coastline, it is no surprise that seafood plays a significant role in its cuisine. From fresh fish to succulent prawns and delicious crabs, you will find a variety of seafood delicacies to tantalize your taste buds.
One must-try dish is the Kerala-style fish curry, also known as meen curry. It is made with a spicy coconut-based sauce and pairs well with steamed rice. Another popular seafood dish is the Kerala-style prawn roast, where prawns are marinated in a flavorful blend of spices and cooked to perfection.
If you are visiting Kerala during the festival of Onam, you are in for a treat. Onam is celebrated with great enthusiasm, and one of the highlights of this festival is the grand feast known as "Onam Sadya."
Onam Sadya is a lavish vegetarian meal served on a fresh banana leaf. It consists of around 26 dishes, including various types of curries, pickles, rice, papadum, and desserts. The flavors and aroma of the different dishes will make your taste buds dance with joy.
No meal is complete without a sweet ending, and Kerala offers a wide variety of desserts and sweet treats. One of the most famous sweets from Kerala is the "Palada Payasam," a rice and milk pudding flavored with cardamom and garnished with nuts. Another popular dessert is the "Unniyappam," a sweet fritter made with rice, jaggery, and banana.
To truly experience the culinary delights of Kerala, it is recommended to go beyond just tasting the food. You can take part in cooking classes and learn how to prepare authentic Kerala dishes. Many resorts and homestays offer cooking classes where you can learn the techniques and secrets of Kerala cuisine.
Another way to explore Kerala's food culture is by visiting local markets or spice plantations. You can interact with the locals, learn about different spices used in Kerala cuisine, and even buy some to take back home.
If you want to make the most of your culinary journey in Kerala, it is advisable to book a family tour package that includes food experiences and activities. A well-planned tour package will ensure that you get to taste a wide variety of Kerala's culinary delights and also explore the beautiful attractions of the state.
Some tour packages include visits to traditional Kerala homes, where you can have a meal with the local families and learn about their cooking techniques. You can also opt for food walks in the bustling streets of Kochi or Trivandrum, where you can savor street food and local specialties.
In conclusion, a family tour to Kerala is not just about enjoying the scenic beauty of the place but also about indulging in the delightful culinary experiences it offers. From traditional Kerala cuisine to mouthwatering seafood, lavish festival feasts to sweet treats, Kerala has something to satisfy every food lover's cravings. So, pack your bags, book a family tour package, and get ready to embark on a gastronomic adventure in the land of spices.