Alleppey is known for being one of the greener and calmer regions of India. With its vibrant culture, rich tradition, and soothing backwaters, the “Venice of the East” speaks volumes about Kerala’s exuberance. But, Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha, is more than just the qualities mentioned above. One such aspect that you mustn’t miss out on is the food. You’ve made plans to travel to this city, got your travel and accommodation at goSTOPS Alleppey sorted, but upon reaching this city, you don’t know what to eat? Now that would be a shame! Don’t worry though. We will get you through some unmissable food in Alleppey with our guide.
Puttu And Kadala
A Keralite household would be incomplete without Puttu and Kadala. They’re both different dishes in their own right and can be eaten separately. But there’s an unmissable essence when Puttu and Kadala are brought together; it’s likening it to Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol. And that duo needs no explanation.
Puttu is basically steamed rice cakes in a cylindrical shape with coconut shavings sprinkled on its surface. Kadala is chickpeas prepared to tingle the spicy taste buds of whoever eats it. The best part about Kadala is that it doesn’t lose its pungent flavor whether it’s prepared dry or in a curry. So for those who enjoy spicy chickpeas, this will be your best go-to dish. Eaten together, this combo will make you say “Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi”! Apart from it being delicious, Puttu and Kadala are nutritious and healthy as well.
Idli And Sambar
Do we even need to introduce this combo? Idlis served with Sambar is something you surely don’t want to miss while overlooking the serene environment of Alleppey. The fluffy rice cakes made of fermented rice and lentil batter are perfect to soak up the sambar, a bright-colored tangy curry cooked with lentils and vegetables
Idli can be accompanied with coconut chutney as well, adding a bit more flavor to the already delicious Sambar. Nearly all the restaurants in Alleppey serve this dish at any given time of the day, so you don’t have to travel long distances for a hot plate of idli and Sambar.
Idiyappam
Idiyappam, also known as Putu mayam or string hoppers is the staple food for any Keralite breakfast. It can be used as the main dish to almost any curried recipe such as vegetable kurma, chicken stew, and peas curry. But a proper Keralite breakfast would consist of Idiyappam combined with spicy egg curry. Now, that’s a wholesome nutritional meal to start your day with. If you want to skip curry as the side dish, then you can either add a blob of ghee or sprinkle finely grated coconut with sugar as well.
Shappu Meen Curry
Now we come to the spicier side of Alleppey. And it would be unfair to mention a list of unmissable food in Alleppey without having a fish dish in it. If you desire a spicy fish curry with some mashed tapioca on the side, then try Alleppey’s revered Shappu Meen Curry. Mind you! This dish is only meant for those who can stomach extreme spice. And for those you can, please don’t go overboard with it. The last thing you need is an upset stomach being a killjoy to your outing. Moreover, if you feel your tongue is spiced enough to breathe fire, a sip of toddy should bring the flames down a notch.
Malabar Fish Curry
If you desire a creamy yet spicy fish curry filled with the goodness of coconut, tamarind, chilies, and curry leaves served in a clay vessel, then you should have a plate of Malabar Fish Curry. Usually accompanied with steaming hot rice, this dish can be had with rotis as well. Again, it is just as spicy as the Shappu Meen Curry, so watch out if you have sensitive stomachs.
Ela Ada
The food in Alleppey is not always about spice – there is something for those who have a sweet tooth too. To experience traditional Keralite sweet flavors, you can start out by taking a bite of Ela Ada. It’s made out of rice paste stuffed with coconut and jaggery which is then steamed in a banana leaf. You can either have this for breakfast or for an evening snack as well. There is no ideal time to sink your teeth into a soft, warm Ela Ada, so gorge away!
Semiya Payasam
Nothing can top a warm bowl of vermicelli kheer on a cold winter morning, or a rainy night. Made with roasted vermicelli, topped with dry fruits in a pātraṁ (vessel) of milk, Semiya Payasam is creamy and can be served on special occasions, or when guests come home. The unique element of this dish is that it can be served chilled as well. Need to down something sweet and chill after a spicy meal? Have a bowl of Semiya Payasam. At least now you have a better alternative than ice cream!
Thalassery Biryani
You might find special mentions of biryani dishes in a different list altogether. Maybe in a list where we discover the “Unmissable Food In Andhra Pradesh.” But just because Alleppey emits a tropical vibe, doesn’t mean there is no biryani. Thalassery biryani is one of the most sought out delicacies where people get a taste of Mughal culture at its best. “What’s so unique about this biryani?” you may ask. The fact that it uses Kaima rice instead of the traditional basmati rice is your answer. This adds a unique flavor and aesthetic that no other style of biryani across the country can replicate. Thalassery biryani with a chilled drink at your side – no better way to spend a hot afternoon.
Bon Appétit
We have taken you through some of the best dishes that are part of the unmissable food in Alleppey. So now you know what to feast on whenever you have an empty stomach in Alleppey. But you will definitely need a warm place to call home after filling your tummies with all that scrumptious food. That’s why you need to visit the goSTOPS property in Alleppey. We have cozy bunk beds, spacious rooms, with all amenities including free Wi-Fi! Most importantly, we are centrally located, just minutes away from restaurants and eateries.
FAQs
What Are Some Good Restaurants In Alleppey?
Alleppey has a variety of good restaurants with good food, some of which are:
- Harbour Restaurant
- Dreamers Café and Restaurant
- Café Catamaran
- Thaff
- Gokulam
What Is The Famous Food Of Alleppey?
It won’t come as a surprise that fish is a staple since it’s near the coastal belt. You will find delicacies like Malabar fish curry and Shappu Meen curry prepared in any Alleppey household. Other than that, you have traditional dishes such as Ela Ada, Idiyappam, and Puttu And Kadala which are a must-have when in Alleppey.
What Is The Average Dining Price At Inexpensive Restaurants In Alappuzha?
A meal for two would cost you between INR 400-500 in a low-end restaurant. This means you won’t be burning a hole in your pocket just to satisfy your hunger pangs.
