Culinary Experience: Desserts of Kerala

Savor Kerala’s rich heritage in every sweet spoonful

Kerala’s rich culinary heritage is incomplete without its exquisite array of desserts, each infused with tradition, history, and the essence of its multicultural influences. As part of Ekathra’s Culinary Experiences, this programme offers an immersive journey into the world of Kerala’s traditional sweets, with a special focus on the revered Payasam and its many delightful variations.
Payasam, a quintessential dessert of Kerala, holds deep cultural and ritualistic significance. This luscious, milk-based or coconut milk-infused dish, often prepared with rice, lentils, or vermicelli, is an integral part of temple offerings, religious ceremonies, and festive celebrations. Temples across Kerala, especially Guruvayur and Ambalappuzha, are renowned for their signature Payasams, prepared as sacred offerings that are relished by devotees. At homes, no festival or auspicious occasion is complete without the preparation of this time-honored delicacy, whether it be the creamy Palada Payasam, the jaggery-rich Ada Pradhaman, or the uniquely flavored Jackfruit Payasam.

Beyond Payasam, Kerala’s dessert landscape is a treasure trove of sweets influenced by its diverse communities and historical connections. The Portuguese-inspired Bebinca, the Arab-influenced Mutta Maala, and the rich, ghee-laden Halwa of Kozhikode showcase Kerala’s deep engagement with global culinary traditions. Each dish carries the essence of Kerala’s spice-laden history, reflecting influences from maritime trade and cultural exchanges with different civilizations.

Kerala’s legendary spice trade has played a crucial role in shaping its dessert heritage, with cinnamon, cardamom, nutmeg, and cloves adding depth to traditional sweets. The influence of Kerala’s Hindu, Christian, and Muslim communities is evident in the variety of desserts prepared for different religious and social festivities, further enriching the state’s culinary identity.

This programme provides guests with the unique opportunity to not only savor these traditional sweets but also engage in the process of making them. Hosted by local families, participants will try their hand at preparing Payasam and other delicacies, gaining firsthand experience of Kerala’s time-honored cooking techniques and the warmth of its hospitality.

Join us on this delightful culinary journey, where tradition, flavor, and cultural heritage come together in every spoonful of Kerala’s beloved desserts.

Culinary Experience: Snacks of Kerala

Crunch into Kerala’s vibrant snack culture, where every bite blends spice, tradition, and the warmth of shared moments across generations

Kerala’s snack culture is a celebration of bold flavors, crispy textures, and time-honored recipes that have been passed down through generations. As part of Ekathra’s Culinary Experiences, this programme invites guests to explore the fascinating world of Kerala’s traditional snacks, which range from savory delights to indulgent sweets, deeply influenced by the state’s diverse communities and spice-rich history.

One of the most beloved snack varieties in Kerala is the banana-based treats, including the ever-popular Pazhampori—ripe bananas coated in a crispy golden batter and deep-fried to perfection. Another favorite is Sharkara Varatti, crispy banana chips caramelized with jaggery and flavored with cardamom and dry ginger, a delicacy often prepared during festivals. The ubiquitous Kaya Varuthathu, thinly sliced banana chips fried in coconut oil, is a staple in every household and an iconic accompaniment to Kerala’s tea culture.

Tea-time in Kerala is incomplete without an array of savory snacks like Uzhunnu Vada, deep-fried lentil fritters with a crispy exterior and soft interior, and Parippu Vada, crunchy dal-based patties that pair beautifully with a cup of steaming chai. The influence of Kerala’s diverse communities is reflected in snacks like Kozhi Ada, a crescent-shaped Malabar snack filled with spiced chicken, and Erachi Pathiri, a layered savory pancake stuffed with flavorful meat fillings.

For those with a sweet tooth, Kerala’s snack offerings extend to delightful treats such as Unniyappam, small fried rice cakes enriched with jaggery and coconut, and Achappam, the intricately designed crispy rose cookies influenced by Kerala’s Christian community. Neyyappam, another classic, is a deep-fried jaggery-infused rice cake that is as fragrant as it is delicious.

This immersive experience offers guests the opportunity to not only savor these delicious treats but also try their hand at preparing them alongside expert home cooks. Participants will learn the art of balancing Kerala’s distinct flavors, the role of coconut and spices in snack-making, and the significance of these delicacies in Kerala’s social and cultural fabric.

Join us for an authentic culinary adventure, where every bite tells a story of Kerala’s rich heritage, diverse influences, and unparalleled gastronomic traditions.