Food In Varkala

Food History of Varkala, Kerala, India

Varkala, a coastal town in the southern state of Kerala, India, has a culinary tradition that is deeply intertwined with its geography, culture, and history. The town's proximity to the Arabian Sea ensures a steady supply of fresh seafood, which features prominently in its local cuisine. Influenced by both, Dravidian and Arya cultures, the food in Varkala is characterized by the liberal use of coconut, rice, tapioca, and a variety of spices.

Kerala's history of trade with foreign lands such as the Arabs, Portuguese, Dutch, and British has left an indelible mark on its cooking techniques and ingredients. Varkala's local cuisine also embodies this heritage, with dishes that have evolved over time, incorporating both indigenous and foreign elements.

Varkala's food is known for its bold flavors, with an emphasis on tanginess and heat, frequently derived from tamarind and chilies. Moreover, the region's emphasis on Ayurveda has also led to a focus on healthful, balanced meals that are both nourishing and flavorful.

Top 10 Must-Try Food Dishes in Varkala, Kerala

1. Appam with Stew (Veg/Non-Veg) - A fermented rice pancake that is soft and fluffy, usually paired with a vegetable or chicken stew infused with coconut milk.
2. Puttu and Kadala Curry (Veg) - Steamed rice cakes (Puttu) served with a curry made from black chickpeas (Kadala), flavored with coconut and spices.
3. Dosa with Sambar and Chutney (Veg) - Crispy rice and lentil crepes served with a tangy vegetable stew (Sambar) and coconut chutney.
4. Idiyappam with Egg Curry (Non-Veg) - String hoppers made from rice flour, served with a spicy egg curry.
5. Kerala Prawn Curry (Non-Veg) - Seafood lovers can enjoy fresh prawns simmered in a coconut milk-based curry, spiced with black mustard seeds and curry leaves.
6. Vegetable Thoran (Veg) - A dry dish prepared by sautéing finely chopped vegetables with mustard seeds, coconut, and turmeric.
7. Palada Payasam (Veg) - A sweet dish, typically prepared during festivals, made from rice ada, milk, sugar, and cardamom.
8. Fish Moilee (Non-Veg) - A mild-flavored fish stew made with coconut milk, ideal for those who prefer less spicy food.
9. Kappa and Meen Curry (Non-Veg) - Tapioca boiled with spices (Kappa) served with spicy fish curry (Meen Curry) - a true taste of Kerala’s coastal cuisine.
10. Banana Fritters (Veg) - Sliced bananas coated in sweetened batter and deep-fried until golden, perfect for a tropical snack.

Top Famous Restaurants in Varkala, Kerala

1. Café Italiano
   Cliff Beach, Helipad, Varkala, Kerala
   Famous Food: Pasta (Veg), Seafood dishes (Non-Veg)
2. Trattorias Restaurant
   North Cliff, Varkala, Kerala
   Famous Food: Pizza (Veg/Non-Veg), Grilled Seafood (Non-Veg)
3. Darjeeling Cafe
   North Cliff, Varkala Town, Varkala, Kerala
   Famous Food: Tibetan Momos (Veg/Non-Veg), Pancakes (Veg)
4. Clafouti Restaurant
   Near Black Beach, North Cliff, Varkala, Kerala
   Famous Food: Freshly Baked Croissants (Veg), Tandoori Fish (Non-Veg)
5. Abba Restaurant and Everest German Bakery
   North Cliff, Varkala, Kerala
   Famous Food: European Breakfast (Veg), Israeli Cuisine (Veg/Non-Veg)

These restaurants offer both local Kerala cuisine and a variety of international flavors, ensuring that there's something to satisfy the palate of every visitor to Varkala. With such a mix of nutritious and delicious options, it's clear why the food of Varkala is as much a draw as its picturesque settings.