Kerala's Grand Vegetarian Feast

Sadya is a traditional vegetarian banquet that showcases the diversity and depth of Kerala’s cuisine. This elaborate meal can include up to 28 different dishes, offering a symphony of flavours that delight locals and visitors alike.

Served on a fresh plantain leaf, with the narrower end facing left, the meal begins with a generous portion of parboiled red rice placed near the lower edge. Accompanying the rice are a variety of curries, side dishes, pickles, savouries, and desserts, all served in a specific order.

The first dish to accompany the rice is Parippu, a simple yet hearty lentil curry enriched with ghee. This is followed by Sambar, a spiced vegetable stew made with lentils and a medley of vegetables simmered in a tangy gravy infused with onions, chillies, and a hint of asafoetida.

Side dishes play a vital role in the Sadya. Avial, a medley of vegetables blended with coconut paste and green chillies, is finished with raw curry leaves and a drizzle of coconut oil. Thoran, typically made from chopped beans, cabbage, or lentils, is stir-fried with grated coconut and spices. Olan, a mild dish of ash gourd and red gram, is simmered in coconut milk.

Crispy Upperi (banana chips), crunchy Pappadams, spicy Ginger Pickle, and tangy Kichadi add texture and contrast to the meal.

The feast concludes with Payasams—rich, sweet puddings made from milk, coconut milk, jaggery, and garnished with cashews and raisins. These include varieties like Pal Payasam, Palada Pradhaman, and Kadalaparippu Pradhaman, often enjoyed with a ripe yellow banana (Pazham).

Before closing the meal, another serving of rice is offered with Rasam—a spicy, tangy broth made from tamarind and black pepper. Kaalan (a thick yoghurt-based curry) and buttermilk seasoned with green chillies and salt aid digestion. The meal is symbolically ended by folding the plantain leaf in half.

Sadya is more than a meal—it is a cultural experience, a celebration of taste, tradition, and hospitality that leaves a lasting impression on anyone fortunate enough to partake in it.