10 Best Traditional Kerala Food you Must try

If Kerala is on your bucket list for 2026, then it's vital that you have enough knowledge regarding the best cuisines to try out in God's Own Country.  Scroll down below to find out 10 Best Traditional Kerala Food you Must try that guarantees to be a delight for your tastebuds.

10 of the best Traditional Kerala Food you Must try in 2026

Puttu and kadala curry

This is a traditional kerala breakfast loved by food lovers all over the state. Puttu is basically a cylindrical steamed rice cake that's cooked in a mould with grated coconut. It is usually eaten with kadala curry, a dish of black chickpeas made with shallots, spices and coconut milk. This one of the best vegetarian Kerala foods you can try out.

Kerala Prawn Curry

Kerala Prawn Curry is a traditional Kerala food that's sure to be loved by admirers of spicy cuisines. This is a spicy and tangy dish that includes marinated prawns dipped in lots of coconut milk, jaggery and then finally finished with curry leaves for a perfect supper. it is a must-try Traditional Kerala dish if you're a big fan of spicy food.

Karimeen pollichathu

Karimeen pollichathu is a famous traditional Kerala food that you can often see in viral YouTube shorts or Instagram reels. Karimeen refers to a pearl spot fish, which is marinated in a mixture of lovely spices and then wrapped and baked in plantain leaves for a special flavour. Originally a Syrian recipe, the aromatic richness and bold tangy flavour is what makes this a standout Tradional Kerala dish.
 

Banana Fritters

Banana Fritters, known in Kerala as Pazham Pori, are basically ripe bananas coated in plain flour and then deep fried in oil for a crspy and tasty treat. It is a favourite tea-time snack in Kerala that's widely adored, and is commonly found across most Kerala restauarants and households. 

Palada payasam

Palada payasam is a must-try traditional Kerala food for sweet lovers. This is a dish that's commonly served during the festival of Onam, and its a simple rice pudding or kheer that's usually made with sugar, milk and ghee. One of the best Sweet dishes iyou can try out in Kerala.

Thalassery Biryani

Thalassery Biryani is a famous type of traditional Kerala Biryani that's commonly made in the Malabar regions during Eid. What makes it a special dish is the usage of a thin rice variety named Kaima. Additionally, the aroma and unique flavour profile makes it stand out.

Naadan Kozhi Curry

Naadan Kozhi Curry translates to traditional Chicken curry, which stands out for its excellent usage of kerala spices and its rich spicy flavour. It is a must try for chicken lovers, and it pairs best with some traditional Kerala rice or Malabar Parotta for a filling and and tasty meal.

Malabar Parota

Malabar Parota is a type of bread with a crispy and flaky texture. The dish is basically a flat bread that's made with maida (plain flour), oil, ghee, and water. It is a popular traditional food in Kerala that goes along perfectly with meat dishes similar to how buns/bread is used in Western Countries.

Sadhya

Sadhya is one of the most famous traditional foods in Kerala. Served during the festival of Onam. It is a diverse dish that includes rice and 10-20 other dishes ranging from vegetarian curries, chips, and even sweets. For those who a love cuisine that's sweet, spicy, and soul-filling, Sadhya is a must-try Traditional kerala food.

Kappa and Meen Curry

Kappa and Meen Curry is a traditional Kerala food that's widely adored in Kerala. Kappa means tapioca, which is boiled and then served with Meen Curry (Fish curry) for a fantastic tangy experience. It is a widely popular dish in the famous local toddy shops in Kerala.

Conclusion

In short, traditional Kerala foods beautifully represent the state’s culture, climate, and history. The balanced use of spices, coconut, rice, and fresh produce creates meals that are both flavorful and nutritious, preserving culinary traditions passed down through generations.