What to Eat in Bekal Today?

Famous Food to Eat in Bekal

Malabar food is fragrant rather than fiery, with plenty of coconut and fresh seafood. These are the dishes to look for.

Malabar Biryani

Made with short-grain khaima or jeerakasala rice layered with spiced chicken or mutton, fried onions, nuts and raisins. It is milder and more fragrant than biryanis from further north.

Meen Pollichathu

Fish coated in a spiced masala, wrapped in a banana leaf and cooked on a pan until the leaf chars. The leaf keeps the fish moist and gives it a smoky flavour.

Malabar Fish Fry

The day's catch marinated in a red masala and shallow-fried until crisp. It is served with rice meals at most local eateries near the coast.

Kerala Sadya

A vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf, with rice, sambar, avial, thoran, olan, pickles and payasam. It is the classic festival meal, especially at Onam.

Puttu and Kadala Curry

Steamed cylinders of rice flour and grated coconut served with a spiced black chickpea curry. It is a breakfast dish, so look for it early in the day.

Snacks and Tea in Bekal

Small tea shops in Bekal, Kanhangad and Nileshwar serve strong, sweet tea with fried snacks through the day. Around the beach park, stalls sell cut fruit, fresh coconut water and light bites, which are welcome after a hot walk around the fort.

Food Tips for Travellers in Bekal

• Ask what fish came in that day, as the choice changes with the catch.
• Order breakfast dishes like puttu before mid-morning, as they often sell out.
• Coconut oil is used in many dishes, so ask if you prefer something lighter.
• Vegetarians should look for a sadya or a meals restaurant.
• Carry some cash for small eateries and tea shops.
• Drink bottled or filtered water, especially in the hot months.