FAQ

What are the must-try local desserts and snacks in Kerala?

The must-try local desserts and snacks in Kerala include a delightful mix of sweet and savory items that reflect the state’s rich culinary heritage. Traditional desserts like payasam, banana halwa, and unniyappam offer a sweet taste of Kerala’s festivals, while snacks such as banana chips, kuzhalappam, and beef fry with parotta highlight its diverse cultural influences. These delicacies are a must for anyone exploring Kerala’s vibrant food scene.

Among the desserts, Palada Payasam and Ada Pradhaman stand out as quintessential Kerala sweets, often served during festivals. Unniyappam is a popular snack-like dessert made from rice, jaggery, bananas and coconut, deep-fried to golden perfection. Its crisp exterior and soft, sweet interior make it an irresistible treat. Similarly, Kozhukatta, a steamed rice dumpling filled with coconut and jaggery, is a traditional dessert often prepared during festive occasions.

Kerala’s Christian community is known for festive desserts like Achappam (rose cookies) and Kuzhalappam, both crispy rice flour-based snacks with a hint of coconut and sesame. Another popular sweet is Vattayappam, a steamed rice cake with a soft, spongy texture, often flavoured with cardamom and raisins. These delicacies are commonly prepared during Easter and Christmas.

The Malabar region is a treasure trove of snacks and desserts. Chatti Pathiri, a layered pastry made with flour, eggs and sweetened coconut or meat fillings, is a unique dessert from Malabar’s Muslim kitchens. Mutta Maala, made by delicately draping egg yolks into sugar syrup, is another delightful specialty. Kozhikode Halwa, known for its chewy texture and vibrant colours, is a signature treat from the region.

Kerala’s desserts, steeped in tradition, offer a delicious journey into the state’s culinary culture.