Kerala is a paradise not just for scenic landscapes but also for its rich variety of tropical fruits. From luscious mangoes to unique cashew apples, Kerala’s fruit basket is a delight for travelers. If you’re visiting Kerala, don’t miss out on these six must-try fruits, each offering a unique taste and cultural significance.
1. Bananas – The Ubiquitous Superfood of Kerala
Bananas are found in almost every corner of Kerala and are available year-round. Kerala exports approximately 60-70 tonnes of bananas daily, making them an essential part of the state’s cuisine.
Popular Varieties in Kerala:
- Nendran (Ethapazham): Used in making chips and steamed snacks like pazham pori (banana fritters).
- Poovan: Small and sweet, often eaten raw.
- Red Banana (Chenkathali): Nutrient-rich and slightly tangy.
- Robusta: Commonly used for milkshakes and desserts.
Where to Try: Local fruit markets, roadside stalls, or enjoy banana-based dishes in traditional Kerala meals served on banana leaves.
2. Jackfruit – Kerala’s Official State Fruit
Jackfruit, the largest tree-borne fruit, is a local favorite known for its sweet aroma and fibrous texture. Kerala was declared the Jackfruit Capital of India, highlighting its cultural and economic significance.
Ways to Enjoy Jackfruit:
- Ripe Jackfruit: Enjoy fresh or in desserts like chakka varatti (jackfruit jam).
- Unripe Jackfruit: Cooked into curries like chakka erissery.
- Jackfruit Chips: A crispy snack made from thinly sliced unripe jackfruit.
Where to Try: Vazhakulam (known as Kerala’s ‘Pineapple City’), roadside vendors, or in traditional Kerala feasts (sadhya).
3. Pineapple – A Sweet and Tangy Delight
Pineapple cultivation is widespread in Kerala, particularly in the highlands of Idukki and Wayanad. This fruit is not only delicious but also aids digestion and hydration.
How to Enjoy Pineapple in Kerala:
- Fresh Pineapple: Eaten raw or with a pinch of salt and chili powder.
- Pineapple Juice: Refreshing and packed with vitamin C.
- Pineapple Pachadi: A traditional Kerala dish made with pineapple, yogurt, and coconut.
Where to Try: Pineapple farms in Vazhakulam, local juice stalls, and Kerala-style feasts (sadhya).
4. Cashew Fruit – A Hidden Gem
Cashew apples are lesser-known but have a unique, tangy sweetness. The fruit is rich in antioxidants and is often used to make juice, jams, and local fermented beverages.
Why Try Cashew Fruit?
- The fruit has a sweet and slightly astringent taste.
- The nuts are a prized delicacy, commonly roasted and salted.
- Cashew plantations in Kerala contribute significantly to the economy.
Where to Try: Cashew-growing regions like Kollam, where you can also visit cashew processing units.
5. Mango – The King of Fruits
Mangoes hold a special place in Kerala’s cuisine. From raw mango pickles to fresh mango juices, this fruit is loved by locals and tourists alike.
Popular Mango Varieties in Kerala:
- Muvandan: Juicy and mildly fibrous.
- Chandrakkaran: Sweet and aromatic, used in desserts.
- Alphonso: Known for its creamy texture and rich flavor.
How Mangoes are Used in Kerala Cuisine:
- Ripe Mangoes: Enjoyed fresh or made into juices, jams, and ice creams.
- Raw Mangoes: Used in pickles (kadumanga achar) and curries (manga curry).
Where to Try: Mango farms in Malappuram, local markets, or traditional Kerala meals.
6. Guava – The Nutrient-Packed Superfruit
Guava is a common tropical fruit found in Kerala, packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. It is a great immunity booster and is widely consumed fresh or as juice.
Why You Should Try Guava:
- The fruit has a sweet and slightly tangy taste.
- Rich in dietary fiber and excellent for digestion.
- Guava leaves are used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat ailments like diarrhea and sore throat.
Where to Try: Local markets, fruit stalls, or enjoy freshly squeezed guava juice from street vendors.
Final Thoughts – Don't Miss These Fruits on Your Kerala Trip!
Trying local fruits is an essential part of exploring Kerala’s diverse culinary landscape. From the crispy banana chips to the refreshing taste of cashew fruit, each of these fruits offers a unique experience.
Have you tried any of these fruits in Kerala? Share your experience in the comments below!
Planning a trip to Kerala? Don’t forget to explore local markets and taste these tropical delights!