Rajasthan & Himachal are not the only states in India that attract tourist footfall for their abundance of natural beauty & places of attractions. The beauty also lies in the south. Munnar is one perfect example to mention. Famously called Kashmir of South India, this beautiful hill station in Kerala has natural attractions, including verdant greenery, rolling hills, evergreen forests, & plantations. Besides all these, there are also many adventure activities to do in Munnar. But tasting famous foods in Munnar is also an exciting experience.
Munnar is nestled in the Sahyadri region of the mountain range in Kerala. This excellent hill destination must not be explored only for its mountains, Lakkam Waterfall, tea plantations, & hiking trails but also for its local cuisines. The staple food here is part of its history, culture, & traditions. The restaurants here prepare both veg & non-veg dishes to satiate the hunger pangs of its visitors. Kerala’s primary staple food is rice, followed by coconut & fish. However, these are not the only traditional food items that define the Munnar’s local food culture. There are more to tantalise your taste buds.
List of famous foods in Munnar that foodie must try out
Now let us bring you the list of top local foods in Munnar which every foodie would love to savour during his visit to this enchanting hill station of south.
- Kairali Thali
Kairali Thali is one of the famous local foods to try in Munnar. Following the traditional culture, the food is served on banana leaves to the guests. The leafy plates consist of steel bowls stuffed with different dishes, including delicate coconut kheer, mixed vegetable stir fry, Pulienji, delicate coconut kheer, vegetable pachadi, rice with sambar & rasam. The other additions include puris & papads. All the dishes are prepared with coconut oil & crushed coconuts.
- Parippu Curry
Parippu Curry is also one of the staple foods locals consume in Munnar. This simple tadka dal is made from split yellow moong dal. To add more taste, a spiced buttery tadka is drizzled on top. You can pour it over the basmati rice & mix it to get a relishing taste. You can also have it with chapati as an optional choice.
- Kerala Biryani
While exploring the best romantic destinations in Munnar, you should take advantage of dining at one of the eateries & placing an order for Kerala biryani, also called Thalassery biryani. Unlike the usual biryani that is made with the use of basmati rice, in Munnar, it is different. Here, Kaima rice & a blend of special spices are preferred. Because of its slow cooking, its final preparation takes at least 2 hours.
- Ari Pathri & Chicken Curry
For all non-veg foodies, Ari Pathri & chicken curry is a mouth-watering treat in this hilly town of Kerala. The dish is prepared with rice flour, which has a soft, plain, & silky texture. When served well with chicken curry, its delicious taste will make you crave more.
- Malabar Parotta
If you prefer parathas on your breakfast table, try the Malabar Parotta in Munnar, made with maida or refined flour. This delicious treat must be added to your Munnar itinerary plan. Coming to its preparations, it is made with flour, sugar, milk, or eggs as optional. The topping of butter will enhance your taste buds, & will make you ask for more.
- Idiyappam with Egg Curry
Looking at idiyappam will make you seem like a ball of stuffed white noodles. It is mainly paired with egg curries, chutneys, or curries made of rice flour, water, & salt. The appearance of its interlaced white strands holds the consumer’s attention. You can savour it even on the roadside stalls.
- Palada Payasam
After having your meal, you should not leave without having the taste of Palada Payasam. Palada, as the name suggests, means the thick layer that encircles the milk. Whereas Payasam is the dessert commonly consumed in all parts of South India. This sweet holds great importance as it is served during the festive seasons. It contains nuts, rice, & spices like clove, cardamom, etc.
- Chatti Pathiri
Chatti Pathiri comes as another sweet delicacy for travellers who are coming to visit Munnar for their vacations. The locals prepare it with oil, water, flour, & eggs. It wouldn’t be wrong to call it a sweet version of the usual South Indian dosa we all love eating. The sweet is dribbled with nuts & raisins when garnished.
- Ela Sadya
Ela Sadya is also one of the famous foods in Munnar, which is served during special occasions like weddings & festive joy. It is one of the finest meals offered to guests on a banana leaf. It is a royal lunch for the foodies consisting of Vadai, Payasam, Varavu, Aviyal, Olan, Thoran, Pulissery, & Appalam.
- Kerala Style Fish
Fish is good for health, as it contains nutritional elements, including vitamins, minerals, proteins, & fatty acids. So if you love having it for your meal, you will surely love the taste of Kerala-style fish prepared with coconut & kokum that give a fantastic salty & sour flavour. This non-vegetarian dish complements well with parathas & rice.
- NadanKozhi Varuthathu
Here comes another mouth-watering treat for non-veg foodies, the Nadan Kozhi Varuthathu. It is a spicy chicken fry prepared with a unique blend of spices, onion, garlic, & vinegar. The chicken here appears crispy from the exterior, & is softer in the interior. You will be lost in a fantastic, delicious taste when savouring it.
- Puttu & Kadala Curry
If you wish to have a delectable meal for your breakfast, then Puttu & Kadala Curry should be your top priority. Where Puttu seems to be a layered coconut-cooked steamed rice cake in a cylindrical shape, Kadala is a hot curry which is prepared with black chickpeas & aromatic spices. Add coconut chutney to experience an excellent taste of this meal.
- Appam & Prawn Curry
Last on the list is Appam & prawn Curry. Appam is a thick pancake prepared from fermented rice, paired with coconut batter, stews, & other dishes. Whereas prawn curry has a delicious amalgamation of coconut milk, chillies, & jaggery. Both make a perfect culinary treat.
Dine out for delectable cuisines at the best resort in Munnar
If you are looking for the luxury resort in Munnar, look no further than jüSTa Rangers. This property is situated around beautiful hills & verdant greens. It is a must-pick for all those who wish to have a comfy stay during their vacation. The resort will win over your heart with its impressive infrastructure, plush amenities, & ample room spacing. With its 29 different rooms, visitors can have access to all the modern amenities they expect.
The resort has an East Cafe (Multi-Cuisine Restaurant), one of the best dining restaurants in Munnar. If you look at its À la carte menu, it features a variety of cuisines, including authentic Kerala cuisine, Indian curries, Tandoor, Continental and Chinese dishes. It has everything for its guests, depending on their taste. The restaurant also provides a wide variety of dishes from Indian & global cuisines, including appetisers, & desserts.
Conclusions
With so many varieties of famous foods in Munnar, it will surely make you pack your bags & embark on the journey to this beautiful hilly haven of Kerala. Whether coming in a group or as a solo backpacker, your journey to Kashmir of the South will be a memorable visit. For your staycation, we have referred you to the best resort in Munnar that fulfils all your expectations.