As the sweet aroma of spices fills the air and the vivid colors of Kerala’s culture come alive, it can only mean one thing – Onam, the much-awaited harvest festival that celebrates the homecoming of the legendary King Mahabali, is here. And what better way to celebrate the joyous occasion of Onam 2023 other than indulging in the scrumptious Kerala Onam Sadya?
What is Onam Sadya?
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Served on a banana leaf, the Onam Sadya or the Onam Feast is an amalgamation of flavours, textures, and aromas that come together to create an unforgettable gastronomic experience. This 26 dishes spread (and sometimes even more!) of vegetarian food is a reflection of Kerala’s love for food and a testament to the rich tradition of preparing lavish feasts in Kerala. It isn’t merely a meal, it’s an experience that captures the essence of Kerala’s rich cultural heritage.
What dishes are included in Onam Sadya?
The Onam Sadya items list is filled with culinary delights, showcasing the rich diversity of Kerala food. Featuring an array of dishes that range from the subtly spiced to the delightfully sweet, the traditional Sadya meal is a delightful symphony of dishes that caters to every palate and everyone must try it at least once in their lifetime! We highly suggest you skip looking for Sadya recipes online, ditch the whole DIY plan and plan a trip to Kerala after doing your hotel bookings online and grabbing cheap flight tickets.
There’s simply no better way to relish the flavours and immerse yourself in the joyous festivities of Onam other than having authentic Onam Sadya in Kerala!
Curious to know more? Let’s have a look at all the delicacies that will be adorning your banana leaf as a part of your Onam Sadya menu.
1. Choru
Image Credit: Santhosh Varghese
The foundation of the Sadya, Choru is perfectly cooked rice that forms the heart of the meal and will be the base of your culinary adventure.
2. Paruppu Curry
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A wholesome velvety blend of lentils and coconut cooked to perfection and seasoned with traditional spices, this lentil curry is pure comfort served on your banana leaf.
3. Sambar
Image Credit: Santhosh Varghese
Sambar is a tangy and hearty lentil and vegetable stew, which tantalizes the taste buds and perfectly complements the Sadya. It’s a classic South Indian food delight that is an integral part of the Kerala food culture.
4. Rasam
Image Credit: Santhosh Varghese
A warm and fragrant tamarind broth with a blend of spices, Rasam is an invigorating palate cleanser that awakens the senses.
5. Aviyal
Image Credit: Santhosh Varghese
A medley of vegetables drenched in a luscious coconut gravy and tempered with aromatic curry leaves, Aviyal adds a touch of freshness.
6. Cabbage Thoran
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Stir-fried veggies adorned with grated coconut and spices, Thoran offers a delightful crunch and a burst of flavours.
7. Olan
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A delicate preparation of ash gourd and coconut milk, Olan’s subtle flavours provide a gentle contrast to the other vibrant dishes.
8. Cucumber Pachadi
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A sweet and sour yogurt-based concoction that balances the flavours, Pachadi tantalizes the taste buds with its creamy texture and mild spiciness.
9. Kootu Curry
Image Credit: vm2002
A melody of veggies and Bengal gram in a rich, spiced gravy brings a rich, earthy flavour to the Onasadya and showcases Kerala’s love for hearty, wholesome dishes.
10. Erissery
Image Credit: Santhosh Varghese
A lip-smacking combination of pumpkin and lentilswith a hint of coconut, Erissery is a creamy dish that leaves a lasting impression.
11. Kaalan
Image Credit: Santhosh Varghese
With its creamy yogurt and tangy coconut curry made with raw bananas, and spices, Kaalan adds a unique creamy and tangy element to the traditional Sadya.
12. Beans Thoran
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Crispy and flavorful long beans stir-fried to perfection with spices, Beans Thoran or Achinga Payar Mezhukkupuratti is a delightful side dish.
13. Puliserry
Image Credit: Santhosh Varghese
Puliserry also called ‘Moru curry’ or ‘Moru Kachiyathu’ is a yogurt-based curry with a refreshing blend of flavours.
14. Mambazha Puliserry
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Made with mangoes, coconut, curd and spices, Mambazha Puliseery is a creamy and delicious dish savored by all.
15. Pal Payasam
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A divine dessert made by slow-cooking rice, milk, ghee, and sugar, Pal Payasam will get your taste buds dancing with joy.
16. Pazha Pradhaman
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A creamy and heavenly sweet dish made with banana, jaggery, coconut, and topped with dry fruits, Pazha Pradhanam is rich traditional dessert made on special occassions in Kerala.
17. Ada Pradhaman
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Rice flakes, coconut milk, and jaggery unite in a heavenly and rich concoction making Ada Pradhaman a sweet marriage of texture and flavour.
18. Sharkara Upperi
Image Credit: Santhosh Varghese
Also known as Sharkara Varatti, these crispy banana chips glazed with a touch of jaggery, offer a sweet and savory crunch while balancing the flavours.
19. Sambaram
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A Kerala style spicy buttermilk and popularly served dutring Onam, Sambaram or Morum Vellam, is made with curd, curry leaves, ginger and green chillies.
20. Beetroot Pachadi
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Adding a dash of color to your Onam Sadya, Beetroot Pachadi is a sweet and creamy concotion of beetroots, curd, coconut, and mild spices.
21. Puli Inji
Image Credit: Santhosh Varghese
A tangy and spicy ginger-tamarind chutney that adds a burst of flavour to your palate.
22. Upperi
Image Credit: Santhosh Varghese
Golden and crispy banana chips, known as Upperi, provide a delightful crunch between bites.
23. Pappadam
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Crispy papad made of rice or lentils that act as a crunchy palate cleanser amidst the meal.
24. Mango Pickle
Image Credit: Santhosh Varghese
Tangy and spicy mango pickle that adds a zing to the meal.
25. Pazham
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Fresh and ripe banana, a simple yet satisfying way to conclude your Onam Sadya.
26. Salt
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Kept on the far left corner of the Sadya banana leaf, salt is the first item to be served and eaten between different dishes as a palate cleanser.
Now that’s what you call a meal fit for a king!
This traditional feast, deeply rooted in Kerala’s rich culture and heritage, is a gastronomic delight that leaves taste buds tingling and hearts full. As you indulge in the lavish spread, you become part of a tradition that has stood the test of time and continues to bring people together in a joyous feast.
So, whether you’re a food enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or someone simply eager to savor the goodness of Kerala’s culinary heritage, the Kerala Onam Sadya is an experience you won’t want to miss. Mark your calendars, spread the word, and prepare to dive into the vibrant world of flavors that await you at the Onam Feast!
Read More About Kerala:
- Why Kerala? The 12 Best Places To Visit In Kerala
- Tips For Cruising In A Houseboat In Kerala
- The 8 BEST Things To Do In Kerala
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