Here’s a detailed guide to the top 10 must-try foods in Kollam, Kerala. Kollam, being a coastal city, is famous for its fresh seafood and traditional Kerala cuisine. Whether you’re exploring local eateries or street food stalls, these dishes offer an authentic taste of Kollam and Kerala’s culinary heritage.
1. Karimeen Pollichathu (Pearl Spot Fish)
- What to Expect: Karimeen, also known as pearl spot fish, is one of the most popular fish varieties in Kerala. The fish is marinated with spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and then grilled or steamed. This dish is rich in flavors and gives you an authentic taste of Kerala’s traditional cooking.
- Where to Try: Karimeen Grills, The Raviz Ashtamudi
- Best For: Seafood lovers and those wanting to try traditional Kerala fish preparations.
2. Puttu and Kadala Curry
- What to Expect: Puttu is a traditional Kerala breakfast dish made from steamed rice flour and grated coconut. It is typically served with Kadala Curry, a spiced black chickpea curry. This combination is one of the most loved dishes in Kollam and Kerala as a whole.
- Where to Try: Sree Mahalakshmi Hotel, Local breakfast stalls near Kollam Beach
- Best For: A hearty, traditional Kerala breakfast.
3. Tapioca and Fish Curry
- What to Expect: Known locally as “Kappa,” tapioca is a starchy root that is typically boiled and served with a flavorful, spicy fish curry. This dish is a staple in Kerala and is especially popular in coastal areas like Kollam.
- Where to Try: Kollam Beach Road, local eateries near Ashtamudi Lake
- Best For: Tourists looking to enjoy a traditional and filling Kerala dish.
4. Appam with Stew
- What to Expect: Appam is a soft, fluffy, and slightly tangy pancake made from fermented rice batter. It is traditionally served with a stew made from vegetables or chicken cooked in coconut milk. This dish is a beloved Kerala breakfast or dinner option.
- Where to Try: Hotel All Season, The Raviz Ashtamudi
- Best For: Those looking for a light yet flavorful Kerala meal.
5. Meen Curry (Kerala Fish Curry)
- What to Expect: Kerala fish curry is made using fresh fish like tuna, mackerel, or sardines, cooked in a tangy tamarind-based gravy with a mix of spices and coconut milk. The dish is usually served with rice or appam.
- Where to Try: Karimeen Grills, Kollam Beach Resort
- Best For: Fish lovers and those wanting to taste Kerala’s signature fish curry.
6. Kozhi Pathiri (Chicken Flatbread)
- What to Expect: Kozhi Pathiri is a traditional Kerala flatbread made with rice flour and stuffed with spicy chicken filling. It is rolled and cooked to perfection, often served as a side dish with curry or chutney.
- Where to Try: Sree Krishnaswamy Silks, Local eateries near Chinnakada
- Best For: Meat lovers and those interested in traditional Kerala snacks.
7. Shawarma
- What to Expect: While not native to Kerala, Shawarma has become a popular street food in Kollam, thanks to its flavorful spiced meat, often chicken or beef, wrapped in pita bread with vegetables and sauces. It’s a must-try for those looking for a quick and tasty snack.
- Where to Try: Chinnakada, Dreamcatcher Café
- Best For: Those craving Middle Eastern flavors or a quick bite.
8. Banana Fritters (Pazham Pori)
- What to Expect: Pazham Pori is a popular Kerala snack made by deep-frying ripe banana slices coated in batter. The result is a sweet, crispy treat that pairs perfectly with a hot cup of tea or coffee.
- Where to Try: Local street food vendors near Kollam Beach, Thevally
- Best For: Those with a sweet tooth or looking for a quick snack.
9. Chili Bajji
- What to Expect: A popular street food, Chili Bajji consists of green chilies stuffed with a spiced potato filling, dipped in batter, and deep-fried. It’s a spicy and crispy treat that pairs well with chutney or a refreshing drink.
- Where to Try: Kollam Municipal Market, Chinnakada Street Food Corner
- Best For: Spicy food lovers looking for a quick snack.
10. Kozhukatta (Sweet Dumplings)
- What to Expect: Kozhukatta is a sweet dumpling made from rice flour, stuffed with grated coconut and jaggery, and steamed to perfection. This traditional Kerala dessert is often prepared during festivals and special occasions.
- Where to Try: Local food stalls during festivals, Sree Mahalakshmi Hotel
- Best For: Those wanting to try a traditional Kerala dessert that’s both sweet and aromatic.
Where to Find These Dishes:
- Kollam Beach Road: Known for fresh seafood and local snacks like fish fry, banana fritters, and appam.
- Chinnakada: Home to local eateries that serve traditional Kerala meals, street food, and snacks.
- Kollam Municipal Market: A bustling market area where visitors can find fresh spices, snacks, and local Kerala food.
- The Raviz Ashtamudi and Kollam Beach Resort: Offer premium dining experiences with a mix of traditional and modern Kerala cuisine.
- Street Food Stalls and Vendors: Various food carts and vendors across the city offer popular street food like Shawarma, Pazham Pori, and Chaat.
Best Time to Try These Foods:
- Morning: For a traditional breakfast of Puttu and Kadala Curry or Appam with Stew.
- Evening: The best time to enjoy Banana Fritters (Pazham Pori), Shawarma, and Chili Bajji as evening snacks.
- Lunch/Dinner: Karimeen Pollichathu, Tapioca and Fish Curry, and Meen Curry are ideal for a filling lunch or dinner.
These top 10 foods capture the true essence of Kollam’s culinary heritage, and whether you’re visiting a local eatery, street vendor, or high-end restaurant, you’ll find that these dishes are a perfect way to explore the local flavors of Kerala.