There’s something truly magical about the flavors of Palakkad Iyer cuisine that warms the heart and lifts the spirit. Each dish is a delightful blend of tradition and taste, capturing the essence of South Indian cooking. Let’s explore some irresistible recipes that not only please your palate but also bring a smile to your face!
Thengai Paal Payasam


Mixed Vegetable Molagootal Recipe from Sandhya's Kitchen
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 40 min Total Time: 40 min.

Keerai Molagootal / Palakkad Style Spinach Lentil Curry from Masalachilli
Rating: 4.6. Ingredients: 50 min Total Time: 50 min.
This creamy coconut milk dessert is a sweet treat that’s perfect for any celebration. Made with rice and flavored with cardamom, it’s like a warm hug in a bowl!
- 1 cup rice
- 4 cups coconut milk
- 1 cup jaggery (or sugar)
- 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
- 2 tablespoons ghee
- Cashews and raisins for garnish
What makes Thengai Paal Payasam special is its rich coconut flavor combined with the sweetness of jaggery. This dish often finds its way to festivals and family gatherings, creating a sense of nostalgia with every spoonful. Plus, its creamy texture will have you craving more!
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Avial

Avial is a colorful medley of vegetables, all simmered in a luscious coconut yogurt sauce. It’s refreshing, healthy, and oh-so-tasty!
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, beans, drumsticks, etc.)
- 1 cup yogurt
- 1/2 cup grated coconut
- 2 green chilies
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- Curry leaves for garnish
Avial is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of seasonal vegetables and flavors. The combination of yogurt and coconut gives it a unique tanginess that pairs beautifully with rice. Many families have their own secret twist to this traditional dish, making it a personal favorite at every meal!
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Mor Kuzhambu

This tangy yogurt curry is a staple in many South Indian homes. It’s light, refreshing, and perfect for those hot summer days!
- 1 cup yogurt
- 1 tablespoon rice flour
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (like okra and ash gourd)
- 2 green chilies
- 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
- Curry leaves and oil for tempering
Mor Kuzhambu stands out for its unique, tangy flavor profile that’s both comforting and refreshing. The creamy yogurt base is complemented by the spices, making it a fantastic side dish for rice. Many love it for its ease of preparation, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights!
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Adai
Adai is a savory pancake made from a mix of lentils and rice, packed with nutrition and flavor. It’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside—just perfect!
- 1 cup rice
- 1/2 cup split yellow lentils (toor dal)
- 1/2 cup split black gram (urad dal)
- 2 green chilies
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- Salt to taste
- Oil for frying
What makes Adai a favorite is its versatility; you can enjoy it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner! The combination of lentils provides a wholesome protein punch, while the spices add a delightful kick. Serve it with jaggery or coconut chutney for an extra touch of joy!
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Thakkali Chutney

Tomato Chutney Recipe | Thakkali Chutney Recipe from Sharmis Passions
Rating: 4.8. Ingredients: 25 min

Tomato Chutney Recipe | Thakkali Chutney Recipe from Yummy Tummy Aarthi
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 20 min
This flavorful tomato chutney is a must-have with any South Indian meal. It’s tangy, spicy, and completely irresistible!
- 4 ripe tomatoes
- 2-3 green chilies
- 1 onion
- 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
- 1 tablespoon oil
- Salt to taste
Thakkali Chutney is beloved for its zesty taste that complements dosas, idlis, or even rice. The freshness of tomatoes combined with the heat of chilies creates a burst of flavor that brightens up any dish. Many families cherish this recipe, often passing it down through generations!
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Kaara Kuzhambu

Chettinad Kara Kuzhambu, Kara Kulambu Recipe from Kannamma Cooks
Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: 30 min Total Time: 30 min.

Hotel Style Kara Kuzhambu | Kara Kuzhambu Recipe from Subbus Kitchen
Rating: 4.1. Ingredients: 35 min Total Time: 35 min.

Kara Kuzhambu Recipe | Kara Kulambu Recipe from Yummy Tummy Aarthi
Rating: 4.5. Ingredients: 45 min Total Time: 45 min.
This spicy and savory curry is a comforting dish that pairs perfectly with rice. Its bold flavors will wake up your taste buds!
- 1 cup tamarind extract
- 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (like brinjal and drumsticks)
- 2 tablespoons sambar powder
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 2 tablespoons oil
- Salt to taste
Kaara Kuzhambu shines with its intense flavors and rich aroma, making it a favorite during family meals. The tamarind gives it a tangy kick, while the spices create a warm, comforting sensation. Many consider it a soul-food dish that brings everyone together around the table!
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Uppuma

Upma di verdure con farina di mais from Il Cucchiaio d'Argento
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 25 min Total Time: 25 min.

Upma Recipe (Andhra style Rava Upma) from Swasthi's Recipes
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 20 min Total Time: 20 min.
This savory semolina dish is quick to make and oh-so-satisfying. With a hint of spices and a nutty flavor, it’s a breakfast classic!
- 1 cup semolina (rava)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 green chilies, chopped
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
- Salt to taste
- Curry leaves for garnish
Uppuma is cherished for its simplicity and quick preparation, making it a go-to meal for busy mornings. The roasted semolina adds a beautiful texture, while the spices create a delightful aroma. Serve it with coconut chutney or pickles for a burst of flavor!
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Puliyodarai

Mixed Vegetable Molagootal Recipe from Sandhya's Kitchen
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 40 min Total Time: 40 min.

Keerai Molagootal / Palakkad Style Spinach Lentil Curry from Masalachilli
Rating: 4.6. Ingredients: 50 min Total Time: 50 min.
This tangy tamarind rice is a favorite for picnics and special occasions. The rich flavors and vibrant colors make it utterly delightful!
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1/4 cup tamarind paste
- 2 tablespoons puliyodarai powder
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 2 tablespoons oil
- Curry leaves for garnish
Puliyodarai is loved for its tangy and spicy profile, which makes it a standout dish at any meal. The tamarind gives it a unique flavor that’s both refreshing and satisfying. This dish is also known for its longevity, making it perfect for lunchboxes or outings!