The southern most state of India, Kerala is also known as God’s own country. Anyone who has ever set foot in this gorgeously lush green land of backwaters, coconut trees and the sea would know why it is so fondly called the most beautiful state of India. A very popular destination with the both Indian and non Indian tourists, Kerala is famous for its Ayurvedic Retreat centers and magnificent beaches.

I share a special connection with Kerala and perhaps that is why I just absolutely love everything about it; the culture, the history, the scenic beauty, the people and of course the cuisine! The cuisine of Kerala is distinctly vibrant due the lavish use of exotic spices like cloves, cinnamon, green cardamom, peppercorns, long pepper, black cumin and the quintessential kudampuli (a dried fruit similar to tamarind). Hey, it is not known as the spice capital of India for nothing. A wide variety of premium quality spices and produced and exported to the whole world from Kerala.

The state is blessed with the bounty of the sea and the locals know how to make the best of it. I ate the most lip smacking delicious fish curry flavored with chillies, coconut milk and kudampuli in Cochin. Anotther Kerala speciality which I aboslutely love is Appam – a melt in your mouth soft spongy slightly sweetish pancake with a thick center made out of rice flour. Hot appams with egg curry make the most delectable lunch! If you are into exploring exotic destinations that offer the best of cuisine, I would highly recommend adding this coastal paradise to your gastronomic adventures!

Oh, and how can I not mention the dangeroulsy addictive snack – banana chips! These chips are made with fresh green plantain that is sliced and deep fried in coconut oil. These crunchy bites are so delicious that you will forget your diet but the calories are totally worth pleasing your tastebuds!