Essence of Life - Food
  • Home
  • From My Kitchen
    • Heirloom Recipes
    • From God's Own Country
    • Sadhya
    • Kongu Cuisine
    • Chettinaad Cuisine
    • South East Asian
    • Around the World
  • Ebook
  • I Me Myself
RICE UPMA
ARISI UPMA - RICE UPMA

     Arisi Upma Kozhukattai is one tiffin item I frequent at home.  All these days, I had thought my husband wouldn't prefer eating it as Arisi Upma.  I couldn't say why, I had assumed it so.  To my dismay, I found that he liked the dish when we dined at Mangalambika Coffee House at Kumbakonam during our recent trip to India.  We went to Kumbakonam with the sole intention of trying out their popular Kumbakonam Degree Coffee, and we were amazed by the Coffee and the tiffin items.  From the long list of dishes we ordered, and we all took turns sharing and eating all the dishes, so that we wouldn't miss out the taste of any.  It was a whole family trip and all loved this Arisi Upma along with Kumbakonam Degree Coffee. 

    So, for the recent reminiscence, Arisi Upma - which is from my long forgotten collection of recipes from my college days.  Just what I needed was to adjust the Rice : Water Ratio as perfect as for Arisi Upma.    Rice/Arisi Upma is one of the popular tiffin items in a Brahmin household. This is a simple recipe made with coarsely ground rice which is called as NOI or KURUNAI ARISI. The only work in terms of this tiffin item is soaking the raw rice, and then drying it indoor for a few hours until all the moist is gone, then pulsing it in a dry mixer grinder jar into a coarse rice powder a.k.a kurunai like texture.  Once you have the rice kurunai(small tit bits), then the job gets easier.

    For Arisi Upma, add a bit of Peppercorns, Cumin and Tuvar dhal before grinding it coarsely.  This gives out a wonderful flavour to the dish.  Then the Rice mixture is cooked along with seasoning until 1/2 cooked and then again it is cooked for about 3-4 whistles in a pressure cooker.  This is the main trick which results in a perfectly textured soft Arisi Upma.

     Arisi Upma, is an easy and tasty breakfast/dinner dish popular in a Tamil Brahmin household.  Some prepare the same adding a bit of extra Dhal(Tuvar/Moong Dhal) to it. As such each household has a unique recipe of their own and this is how I make.  Arisi Upma goes well with tangy curries like Puli Kos, Brinjal Gothsu, Puli Kuzhambu or simply serve it with your choice of Chutney or Sambar.  


For more TIFFIN ITEMS, Click here... 


Cuisine : South Indian
Course : Main Course
Difficulty : Medium
Serves : 3-4
Yields : 15 Nos.
Author : SM

Preparation Time - 15-20 Minutes
Soaking Time - 15-20 Minutes
Drying Time - 20 - 30 Minutes
Cooking Time - 20 - 30 Minutes
 

For more SOUTH INDIAN BREAKFAST RECIPES, Click here...

HOW TO MAKE RICE / ARISI UPMA

 
RICE UPMA
ARISI UPMA - RICE UPMA

INGREDIENTS:

For Grinding:

Raw Rice - 1 Cup
Cumin Seeds - 1 Teaspoon
Peppercorns - 3/4 Teaspoon
Tuvar Dhal - 11/2 Teaspoon


For Arisi Upma:

Gingelly Oil - 2 Tablespoon
Mustard Seeds - 1 Teaspoon
Black Gram Dhal - 1 Teaspoon
Bengal Gram Dhal - 1 Teaspoon
Peppercorns - 3/4 Teaspoon
Asafoetida Powder - 1/2 Teaspoon
Dry Red Chillies - 2 -3 No's
Green Chillies - 1 No
Curry Leaves - a Sprig
Coconut - 1 Cup
Salt - To taste
Water -  23/4 Cup
Ghee - 2 Teaspoon

 

 

To make Noi Arisi:

  • Soak the raw rice for 15 mins in water. 
  • After 15 mins, drain the water and spread the rice in a clean kitchen towel and allow it to dry completely. 
  • Can dry the Rice indoor under a fan.
  • Once the rice is dry, add Cumin Seeds, 3/4 Teaspoon Peppercorns & Tuvar Dhal along with the rice & then grind it into a coarse powder in a dry mixer grinder jar.  
  • Just pulse it once or twice. It should not be ground into a fine powder.
  • Noi Arisi seasoned with spices is ready for making Arisi Upma.

 

RICE UPMA
ARISI UPMA - RICE UPMA

For Arisi Upma:

  • Boil 23/4 Cups of Water and keep it aside. 
  • Heat oil in a pan, splutter Mustard seeds, Bengal Gram Dhal, Black Gram Dhal, Dry Red Chillies & whole peppercorns.
  • Fry them until they turn into golden brown colour on a low flame.
  • Add finely chopped Green Chillies, Ginger and Curry Leaves and sauté for a while.
  • Sprinkle asafoetida powder and give a quick stir.
  • Add grated coconuts and fry for a few seconds on a very low flame.
  • Pour the water into the above mix, add salt and mix well. 
  • Add a Teaspoon of ghee to the water.
  • Add the coarsely ground rice mixture gradually into the boiling water, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
  • Lower the flame and cover the pan with a lid.
  • Cook the rice, stirring it occasionally.
  • Once the mix becomes thick and dry, switch off the flame.
  • Then transfer the Arisi Upma into a bowl.
  • Place this into a Pressure Cooker.  
  • Pour a few cups of water into the Pressure Cooker and allow it to boil.
  • Place the bowl with Arisi Upma into the pressure cooker and cover it with a lid.
  • Then close the Pressure Cooker with the lid and place the vent cap.
  • Let it cook on a high flame for 2 whistles.
  • Lower the flame and again cook this for 2 whistles.
  • Switch off the flame and wait for the pressure to release.
  • Once the pressure is released, open the lid of the Pressure cooker and remove the bowl with Arisi Upma from it.
  • Pour in a teaspoon or two of Ghee and gently fluff up the Arisi Upma.
  • Serve Arisi Upma hot with Brinjal Gothsu, Sambar, Puli Kuzhambu or any preferred Chutney. 

NOTES:

  • Do not grind the rice into fine powder, it should be ground coarsely like a kurunai.  Just a pulse or two in a dry mixer grinder jar would do the job.
  • Adding spices and tuvar dhal while grinding the rice gives a wonderful aroma to Arisi Upma.
  • Adding Coconut is totally optional.
  • Adding some ghee or oil to the boiling water before adding the rice mixture helps to avoid forming lumps. Also, make sure to stir the mixture continuously.
  • Cooking on stove top and then transferring it into the pressure and cooking it again yields with a perfectly textured Arisi Upma.
  • I have used 23/4 Cups of Water for 1 Cup of Raw Rice.  
  • The whole cooking process happens in two steps - 1/2 while it's cooked with the tempering and 1/2 of the cooking happens in the pressure cooker.
Kerala-style green gram curry (Cheru Payar Curry) served in a coconut shell bowl with puttu, pappadam, and banana.

Cheru Payar Curry served with Puttu, Pappadam, and Pazham


Cheru Payar Curry | Kerala Green Gram Curry for Puttu

If you're looking for a comforting, nourishing, and soul-satisfying dish that pairs beautifully with Puttu, Cheru Payar Curry (Kerala Green Gram Curry) is your answer. Lightly spiced, rich in coconut flavour, and packed with protein, this traditional curry brings together health, taste, and culture in one humble bowl.

 

    There’s something heartwarming about standing in the kitchen early morning — hair tied up, half-awake — stirring a pot of green gram while the aroma of coconut oil and curry leaves fills the air. Cheru Payar Curry, for a Malayali, isn’t just a side dish — it’s the quiet understudy that often steals the show when Kadala Curry takes a break.

    Now let me tell you — while Kadala gets all the limelight on Instagram Reels and restaurant menus, this Green Gram Curry has been silently winning hearts in our home. My husband, the unofficial "Dhal Ambassador" of the family, swears by it. Every time I announce Puttu for breakfast, he gives me that hopeful look — the one that says, “So… Payar too?” And of course, I oblige. Kadala for all, Payar for him, Pazham for the kids and me. And if we get our hands on ripe Nendhra bananas? Steamed and served — full Kerala style. Bliss.

Why You’ll Love This Cheru Payar Curry

  • Wholesome, digestible, and light — perfect for all ages and appetites.
  • Made with basic pantry staples — no fuss, no frills.
  • Naturally vegan and gluten-free.
  • Pairs with almost anything: Puttu, Rice, Bananas, or even Rotis.
  • Mildly spiced with a warm coconut finish.
  • A great way to get the family eating lentils — even the fussy ones!

 

ide view of Kerala-style breakfast featuring kadala curry, green gram curry, steamed rice puttu, banana and crispy papadam on a banana leaf

Puttu & Comrades - Kadala, Pazham & Pappadam

 

Kerala Green Gram Curry (Cheru Payar Curry)

    Green gram, or Cheru Payar, is one of Kerala’s most cherished ingredients — a humble lentil that packs a punch when it comes to nutrition, taste, and ease of cooking. Often considered a superfood, green gram is a powerhouse of plant-based protein, iron, fibre, and essential minerals. No wonder it’s been a staple in Malayali homes for generations.

    This is a cooling lentil, making it ideal for hot, humid climates — light on the tummy and quick to digest. It doesn’t demand long soaking hours either; just 30 minutes is good, but an overnight soak will make your job easier, especially if you’re multitasking breakfast with a school run!

 

Easy Vegan Side Dish

    The Kerala-style Cheru Payar Curry is lightly spiced and full of earthy coconut flavour. Cooked green gram is simmered with a fresh coconut paste (blended with garlic, green chillies, and cumin), and finished with a fragrant tempering of mustard seeds, dry red chillies, and curry leaves in coconut oil — that unmistakable Kerala kitchen aroma!

    Whether you pair it with Puttu, ladle it over steaming rice, or serve it alongside roti or chapati, this curry brings in nourishment, comfort, and an irresistible touch of tradition.

op view of traditional Kerala breakfast steamed puttu with green gram curry, kadala curry, banana and papadam served on banana leaf"

Classic Kerala Breakfast - Puttu, Kadala, Pazham, Pappadam

 

Serving Idea: For the ultimate Kerala Breakfast Combo, serve Cheru Payar Curry with Puttu, Pazham (banana), and a crunchy Nadan Pappadam. A drizzle of ghee? Pure bliss!

 

Recipe Overview

  • Cuisine: Kerala, South India
  • Course: Side Dish / Vegan Curry
  • Spice Level: Mild to Medium
  • Serves: 3–4
  • Author: SM @ Essence of Life – Food

Time Estimate

  • Preparation Time: 5–10 minutes
  • Soaking Time: 30 mins – 1 hour (or overnight)
  • Cooking Time: 25–30 minutes
  •  
 

Don’t Miss These Malayali Favourites:

  • How to Make Puttu – Traditional Kerala Steamed Rice Cake
  • Kadala Curry – The Classic Pairing for Puttu
  • Steamed Nendhra Pazham – Nendhra Pazham Puzhungiyathu

 

How to Make Cheru Payar Curry for Puttu – Kerala Style Green Gram Curry


Close-up shot of Kerala-style cheru payar curry in coconut bowl with steamed rice puttu and crispy pappadam

Cheru Payar Curry Served with Kerala Puttu and Pappadam

Ingredients

To Cook Green Gram:

  • 1 cup Green Gram / Cheru Payar 
  • ½ Teaspoon Turmeric Powder
  • ½ teaspoon Ghee (optional but adds flavour)
  • 3 cups of Water 

Want to master Cooking Beans, Lentils and Pulses? Read a detailed guide here!

For Coconut Paste:

  • ½ cup Grated Coconut
  • 2 cloves of Garlic (optional)
  • 2 to 3 nos. Green Chillies
  • ½ teaspoon Cumin Seeds

For Tempering:

  • 2 to 3 teaspoons Coconut Oil
  • 5 to 6 Shallots, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Mustard Seeds
  • 2 nos. Dry Red Chillies
  • 1 sprig of Curry Leaves

 

Method: Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Soak and Cook the Green Gram

  • Rinse green gram thoroughly.
  • Soak in ample water for 30 minutes to 1 hour. For best results, soak overnight.
  • Drain the soaked green gram.
  • Add it to a pressure cooker with 3 cups of water, turmeric powder, and ghee.
  • Pressure cook:
  • If soaked overnight: 1 whistle on high.
  • If soaked briefly: 2 whistles on high, followed by 2–3 on low.
  • Allow pressure to release naturally.
  • Lightly mash the cooked green gram. It should be soft and slightly overcooked for this recipe.

Prepare the Coconut Paste

  • Grind together grated coconut, garlic cloves, green chillies, and cumin seeds with a splash of water.
  • Make a smooth paste and set it aside.
Make the Curry
  • Add salt and the prepared coconut paste to the cooked green gram.
  • Stir well and simmer on a low flame.
  • Cook until the raw smell disappears and you reach a creamy consistency. Add water if needed.

Temper the Cheru Payar Curry

  • In a small pan, heat coconut oil.
  • Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
  • Add dry red chillies and curry leaves. Keep the flame low.
  • Add chopped shallots and sauté till soft and translucent.
  • Pour this tempering over the curry and mix well.
  • Simmer for a few more minutes to let the flavours meld.

Pro Tip: Tempering on low heat prevents bitterness and enhances the aroma.

 

Pro Tips & Notes

  • Soaking green gram reduces cooking time and enhances digestibility.
  • Ghee or butter balances the lentil’s natural dryness and adds a rich aroma.
  • Avoid adding salt while pressure cooking; it can toughen the lentils.
  • Slightly overcooked green gram gives this curry its signature texture.
  • Adjust spice levels to suit your family’s palate.
  • Always temper on low heat to avoid burning spices and shallots.

 

Storage Suggestions

  • Store any leftover curry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • Gently reheat with a little water to refresh consistency.
  • Not suitable for freezing as the coconut may separate.

 

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve hot with Puttu for a traditional Kerala breakfast.
  • Goes well with Steamed Rice, a drizzle of ghee, and a side of Thoran or Mezhukkupuratti.
  • Add a crunchy Nadan Pappadam for a complete meal.
  • Can also be served with Chapati or phulka for a lighter dinner.

Planning a Kerala-style lunch? Add a Mezhukkupuratti and Unakka Meen Varuthathu (Dried Fish Fry) along with Cheru Payar Curry, Steaming hot Rice for a complete spread!

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Can I cook this curry using sprouted green gram?

  • Yes! Using sprouted green gram adds an extra nutritional boost and gives a lovely texture to the curry. The cooking time may be slightly reduced.
 
Want to make this with a healthy twist? Try it with sprouted green gram! It adds an extra boost of nutrition and a unique texture to the curry. Learn how to sprout green gram here.

Q. Can I make this without coconut?

  • You can skip the coconut paste and use a dash of hing or crushed garlic, but it won’t taste like the traditional version.

Q. Is this curry vegan and gluten-free?

  • Yes! When you skip the ghee, this Cheru Payar Curry is 100% vegan. It’s also naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for most dietary preferences.

Q. Is this curry suitable for kids?

  • Absolutely. It’s light, protein-rich, and gentle on digestion.

Q. Can I use split moong dal instead of whole green gram?

  • Yes, but the result will be a softer, mushier texture, and the flavour will shift noticeably from the traditional Kerala-style curry. It’ll resemble a typical North Indian dal more than Cheru Payar Curry — so best saved for another day!

Q. Can I add tomatoes to the curry base? 

  • Not for the traditional version, but feel free to adapt it for variety.
Traditional Kerala breakfast platter with green gram curry, steamed puttu, banana and fried pappadam served on banana leaf

Cheru Payar Curry with Puttu, Banana and Pappadam – Traditional Kerala Breakfast 



Simple yet Healthy

    This Cheru Payar Curry may be modest in appearance, but it carries the depth of Kerala's food wisdom and the simplicity of everyday comfort. Whether you're pairing it with freshly steamed Puttu, scooping it over rice, or just having it warm in a bowl with a spoon, it never fails to comfort.

    It’s the kind of curry that quietly becomes a family favourite — no fuss, no frills, just wholesome goodness.

Tried this recipe? Leave a comment below and tell me how you served it!
Love Kerala food? Explore more Treasures from God's Own Country, or Onam Sadhya Recipes.
Pin this recipe and save it for your next weekend brunch!






op view of traditional Kerala breakfast steamed puttu with green gram curry, kadala curry, banana and papadam served on banana leaf"

Classic Kerala Breakfast - Puttu, Kadala, Pazham, Pappadam

 

Kerala-Style Breakfast – Puttu, Kadala Curry, Pazham & Pappadam

à´ª്à´°ാതൽ  – à´ªുà´Ÿ്à´Ÿ്, à´•à´Ÿà´², à´šെà´±ുപയർ, പഴം, പപ്പടം


“The aroma of freshly steamed Puttu and spicy Kadala Curry has this time-travel magic. For me, it’s an olfactory ticket to lazy Sunday mornings, steel tumblers of chaya, and echoing sounds from the kitchen. Only a true-blue Malayalee (or an honorary one!) can appreciate the tender crunch and coconutty soul of a well-made Puttu.”


Kerala Style Breakfast – A Nadan Affair of Rice, Roots & Routine 

    When breakfast is served down South in India, rice quietly takes centre stage—and quite unapologetically so. In Kerala, this translates into a spread of soulful rice-based classics like Puttu, Appam, Idiyappam, Pathiri, Idli, Dosa, Kanji and more.

    Look closer, and you’ll see a pattern—everything revolves around rice, rice batter or rice flour. Whether steamed, for cooked, these dishes are unmistakably ethnic to Kerala and its staple - Rice. And what ties it all together? A spectacular range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian curries that play the perfect supporting role.

Beyond the Star Cast – Where Rice Gets Real

    If you think Puttu and Appam are the crowd-pullers, wait till you meet the common man’s breakfast hero—Kanji - Rice Porridge. Specifically, pazhankanji (aka pazhayasadam)—that humble bowl of day-old rice soaked overnight.

    Born out of a no-waste philosophy from a time when refrigerators were unheard of, this dish not only survived—it thrived.  Packed with gut-friendly goodness and essential nutrients, kanji was (and still is) the power breakfast of Kerala’s hardworking peasants.  It’s cool, it’s rustic, and believe it or not, it’s even trending among the health-conscious today.

 

Let’s Talk Tapioca – The Rooted Favourite of a Malayalee

Now, we simply can’t skip kappa—Kerala’s beloved tapioca.

  • Whether it's steamed with mulagu chalichathu, paired with spicy fish curry (kappayum meenum), or slow-cooked as kappa puzhukku or udachathu, it's earthy, comforting, and oh-so-Kerala.

  • Once limited to humble home kitchens, tapioca has now swaggered into the limelight, thanks to Kerala’s Kallu Kadas (Toddy Shops) where it's served alongside local brew and fiery curries.

  • Today, you'll find kappa making grand appearances on menus at top Kerala restaurants, stealing the show without even trying.

Related Read:
→ Kappa Meen Curry – A Match Made in Toddy Shacks
→ How to Make Mulagu Chalichathu – The Fiery Sidekick for Steamed Tapioca

 

Why Kerala Breakfast Is a Nutritional Win

    Kerala may not scream “macro-counting,” but our ancestors had it down. This cuisine ticks every box on the nutrition chart.

  • Balanced carbohydrates from Rice or Tapioca

  • Plant-based proteins from legumes like Kadala (black chickpeas) and Cherupayar (green moong)

  • Fibre, vitamins and minerals from bananas, coconut and curry leaves

  • And of course, the crispy indulgence of a well-fried nadan pappadam – for texture, crunch and pure joy

 

A Breakfast Plate Worth Waking Up For 

    Now, Here comes a classic Kerala-style breakfast (or dinner) platter—served just the way they scribble it on chalkboards across toddy shops and tea stalls: Puttu, Kadala Curry or Cheru Payar Curry, Pazham and Pappadam. 

    Simple, soulful, and unmistakably Nadan.

Today's Menu 

 à´‡à´¨്നത്à´¤െ à´ª്à´°ാതൽ - à´ªുà´Ÿ്à´Ÿ്, à´•à´Ÿà´², à´šെà´±ുപയർ, പഴം, പപ്പടം


Chalkboard-style menu listing a traditional Kerala breakfast with puttu, kadala curry, cherupayar curry, pazham and pappadam

Kerala Style Nadan Breakfast – Menu Board

 

    Puttu, Kadala Curry or Cheru Payar Curry, Pazham, and Pappadam – now that’s a plate that deserves a standing ovation! A hearty, wholesome, and heavenly combo—quintessentially Kerala, served in homes from Kasargod to Trivandrum.

  • Puttu (à´ªുà´Ÿ്à´Ÿ്) – steamed cylinders of rice flour layered with grated coconut, traditionally moulded in a Cheratta (coconut shell) or modern puttu kutti. A gluten-free, fibre-rich base that fills you up just right.   

| Try the rustic Cheratta Puttu version here – where tradition meets taste.

  • Kadala Curry (à´•à´Ÿà´² à´•à´±ി) – robust, coconut-spiced black chickpeas curry that sings in harmony with soft, crumbly puttu.

| Here’s the Kadala Curry Recipe – your go-to for the perfect Kerala breakfast.

Feeling indulgent? 

  • Swap in Nadan Mutton Curry – a traditional Palakkad-style mutton curry that elevates the meal to a festive treat.

| Click here for Nadan Erachi Curry – a fiery twist for meat lovers.

  • Cheru Payar Curry (à´šെà´±ുപയർ à´•à´±ി) – a mild, soul-soothing curry made with green gram, coconut, and a tempering of mustard and curry leaves. A comforting, protein-rich alternative.  

| Find Cheru Payar Curry (Green Gram) Recipe here – earthy, simple, and delicious.

  • Bananas or Steamed Bananas (Nendhra Pazham Puzhungiyathu) – either mashed into the puttu or eaten on the side, this sweet addition balances the spicy curries and adds potassium-packed goodness.  

| Here's the full recipe for (Steamed Bananas)Nendhra Pazham Puzhungiyathu – Kerala’s sweetest sidekick to Puttu.

  • Pappadam – because in Kerala, a meal without that crisp pop of pappadam is like a story without a punchline. Absolute must.

    This breakfast plate is a celebration of textures, flavours, and heritage – balanced with carbohydrates, protein, fibre, and good fats – making it not just satisfying but truly nourishing.


“Pair it with a piping hot cup of Kattan Chaya or Kattan Kaapi for the full Kerala effect.”


A Meal, A Memory, A Typical Kerala Morning

    This humble but wholesome combo—Puttu, Kadala Curry / Cheru Payar Curry, Pazham and Pappadam—isn't just a meal. It’s a deep dive into Kerala’s culture, a celebration of simplicity, and a testament to how everyday food can nourish not just the body, but the soul. It's a divine combination, uniquely made in God's Own Country.

And the best part?

It’s a meal that fits breakfast, brunch and dinner without needing a wardrobe change.

Feeling Nostalgic?

→ Kerala Breakfast Menus – Traditional Kerala Style Breakfast Dishes

→ Kerala Palaharams – Snack Your Way Through Memory Lane


 ðŸ”— Looking for More?  Explore More Kerala-Style Breakfast Platters – Straight from the Homes of God’s Own Country


Kerala-Style Breakfast Menu – Overview

  • Cuisine: Kerala (South Indian)
  • Recipe Type: Breakfast / Dinner Platter
  • Difficulty Level: Medium
  • Author: SM @ Essence of Life – Food

Time Estimate

  • Soaking Time: Overnight / 8–10 Hours
  • Preparation Time: About 1 Hour
  • Cooking Time: 1½ to 2 Hours

🔗 Looking for More? Browse More Hearty Tiffin Ideas – From Appam, Idiyappams to Idli & Dosas , It’s All Here...

 

Puttu & Its Comrades (à´ªുà´Ÿ്à´Ÿും പരിà´µാà´°à´™്ങളും) – A Classic Kerala Breakfast Menu

ide view of Kerala-style breakfast featuring kadala curry, green gram curry, steamed rice puttu, banana and crispy papadam on a banana leaf

Puttu & Comrades - Kadala, Pazham & Pappadam

Puttu (à´ªുà´Ÿ്à´Ÿ്) – The Steamed Soul of Kerala

Cylindrical steamed puttu served on a black plate with kadala curry and green gram stir-fry on the side, traditional Kerala breakfast setup

    Say the word “Puttu,” and any Malayalee will instantly picture that soft, crumbly, coconut-layered log of goodness—steaming away in a puttu kutti or tucked neatly into a cheratta (coconut shell). It’s not just a breakfast dish; it’s a ritual.

What Is Puttu?

 

    Puttu is Kerala’s quintessential steamed rice cake, made with a simple blend of roasted rice flour and grated coconut, often stacked in layers and steamed to perfection. It’s gluten-free, fibre-rich, and versatile enough to swing both ways—savoury and sweet.

 | Click here for the full guide on how to make perfect Kerala Puttu from scratch.

 


Traditional Kerala breakfast featuring cheratta puttu served with spicy kadala curry and crispy pappadam on a banana leaf

Tools of the Trade

  • Traditionally steamed in long cylindrical moulds (puttu kutti)

  • Or in cheratta puttu – using emptied coconut shells (pure vintage vibes)
  • Or even flat on a steamer plate when tools are scarce (it’ll still taste divine)

| Try the rustic charm of Cheratta Puttu here – no mould, just soul



Pro Tip for Perfect Puttu Texture - The magic lies in the moisture balance of the rice flour. Homemade flour, made from quality raw rice, gives you soft, grainy, never-clumpy puttu—exactly the kind that doesn’t need breaking up after steaming.

 

Variants Worth Exploring

A close-up of Chakka Puttu, a traditional Kerala steamed rice cake layered with ripe jackfruit slices.

  • Chakka Puttu – A seasonal showstopper. Layers of sliced jackfruit nestled between rice and coconut? Yes, please.

|  Discover the recipe for Chakka Puttu – A Jackfruit-Laced Twist on Tradition

  • Manga Puttu - Tart, tangy mango meets mellow rice in this summer special twist.
  • Erachi Puttu - Stuffed with spiced beef or mutton masala—comfort food for the meat lovers.

 




Kadala Curry (à´•à´Ÿà´² à´•à´±ി) – Kerala’s Quintessential Sidekick to Puttu

Kadala Curry with Thenga Kothu served in a rustic bowl, garnished with curry leaves

Thenga Kothu Kadala Curry

Varutharacha Kadala Curry simmering in a traditional pot with coconut gravy

Varutharacha Kadala Curry

Kerala-style nadan mutton curry served hot in a clay pot with spicy coconut masala

Nadan Mutton Curry

Beef Vindaloo in a spicy red gravy with vinegar and spices, served hot in a bowl

Beef Vindaloo

    If you’re building the perfect Kerala-style breakfast plate, Kadala Curry is the non-negotiable. This black chickpea coconut curry isn’t just a side dish—it’s a memory, a ritual, and a love letter to breakfast across the state. Bold, earthy, and coconut-laced, it’s the kind of curry that binds Puttu and people together.

And true to Kerala kitchens, no two versions are ever the same.

 Every household has its go-to, and the variations are as exciting as they are flavourful:

  • Kadala Curry with Thenga Kothu – For those who love texture, this version comes with slivers of fresh coconut that bite back in the best way. 

Try the Kadala Curry with Thenga Kothu – Rustic, Textural, Delicious

  • Varutharacha Kadala Curry – Slow-roasted coconut and spice masala, ground to perfection, then simmered with chickpeas. Deep, dark, and utterly divine.

Make Varutharacha Kadala Curry – Bold & Kerala-Style

And If You’re Feeling a bit more indulgent,

    Kerala doesn’t hold back when it comes to flavour—and neither should you.

    While Kadala might be the classic, meaty curries pair equally well with Puttu and are pure indulgence when served hot, spicy, and coconut-rich:

Nadan Mutton Curry – Traditional Kerala-Style, Spicy & Soul-Stirring

Beef Vindaloo – A Portuguese-Goan Twist That Packs a Punch

 These curries turn a humble breakfast/dinner scenario into a festive meal—no excuses needed.

 

Cheru Payar Curry (à´šെà´±ുപയർ à´•à´±ി) – The Gentle, Nutritious Sidekick to Puttu


Rustic Kerala-style green gram curry (cheru payar curry) served in a coconut shell with soft puttu and pappadam in the background

Cheru Payar Curry  – Kerala style Green Gram Curry for Puttu


    If Kadala Curry is the bold lead of Kerala breakfasts, Cheru Payar Curry is the mellow co-star—humble, nourishing, and always comforting.

    Made with green moong beans (aka cherupayar or pachai payar), this curry is a regular fixture on Malayalee breakfast tables. Paired with soft, steaming Puttu, it brings warmth, texture, and plant-powered goodness to your morning plate.

What makes it a favourite?

  • Quick to make – No overnight soak drama – 30 minutes is all it takes, this is a fuss-free, weekday-friendly curry

    | Pro Tip - Dry roast the green gram till it turns warm and fragrant—this not only speeds up cooking but infuses a lovely nutty aroma into the curry 

  • Wholesome & mild – perfect for those who prefer a less spicy, sattvic breakfast
  • Protein-packed – green moong beans are loaded with nutrition and fibre
  • Versatile – also works well with chapatis, kanji or even plain rice

🔗 Explore more: → Recipes with Green Moong Beans – Sattvic & Satisfying Everyday Meals

    Cheru Payar Curry isn’t just about taste—it’s about balance. And when teamed up with Puttu, a banana on the side, and a pop of crispy Pappadam, you've got yourself a perfectly rounded, deeply rooted Kerala-style breakfast.

 

Puttu & Bananas (à´ªുà´Ÿ്à´Ÿും പഴവും) – Kerala’s Sweetest Breakfast Pairing

    A match made in heaven? No, in God's Own Country— Puttum Pazhavum (puttu & banana), is that humble duo that quietly steals the show. Mash it, mix it, scoop it, savour it — however you do it, the result is always comforting and nostalgic. 

    It’s also one of the gentlest, most nourishing combinations — perfect for toddlers beginning their solid food journey.

And oh, what a glorious line up we have:BANANA

  • Palayam Kodan – the sweet-and-soft everyday hero
  • Njali Poovan – tiny but mighty in flavour
  • Rastali & Kadhali – tender and aromatic classics
  • Moris – for those who like a firm bite
  • And the legendary Nendhra Pazham – Kerala’s crown jewel, the king of bananas


 

 

 

 

Nendhra Pazham Puzhungiyathu (à´¨േà´¨്à´¤്à´°à´ª്പഴം à´ªുà´´ുà´™്à´™ിയത്)

STEAMED BANANAS/NENDHRA PAZHAM PUZHUNGIYATHU 


    But here’s the real twist — steamed Nendhra Pazham  (Nendhra Pazham Puzhungiyathu) transforms the banana into something richer, softer, and far more indulgent. Serve it warm with puttu and a pinch of nostalgia.


Want the full method?: Click here for the Steamed Banana Recipe – Nendhra Pazham Puzhungiyathu


 

 

 

Bonus Bite: Puttu with Pazham Pori (പഴം à´ªൊà´°ി)?

    Yes, you heard that right. Some take this combo up a notch by pairing Puttu with Pazham Pori — Kerala’s deep-fried plantain fritters. A crispy-sweet, slightly indulgent variation that’s perfect when you’re craving a breakfast-dessert crossover.

Try this twist too:
→ Pazham Pori Recipe – Kerala Banana Fritters for Anytime Hunger


 

 

 

Kerala Nadan Pappadam (പപ്പടം) – The Indulgent Crunch on a Breakfast Plate

Crispy Kerala pappadam served on a basket, paired with puttu and curry for a traditional breakfast spread

 

    In a typical Kerala breakfast, pappadam doesn’t always     make the appearance—it’s more a lunch or sadhya staple.     But when it does sneak onto the breakfast plate alongside     puttu, kadala curry, or cheru payar curry, it transforms the     meal into a celebratory indulgence.

    Crisp, golden, and airy, Nadan Pappadam adds an     irresistible crunch to every soft, spiced, and mellow element     on the plate.

 Not mandatory, but oh-so-magical when included. This is Kerala comfort food taken up a notch

 
 
 

Chaya or Kaappi – Kerala’s Sip of Closure

    No Kerala-style breakfast is ever truly wrapped up without a glass of Chaya or Kaappi. 

Chaya or Kaappi? Call it caffeine rush for that breezy mornings. Because even puttu needs a sidekick with a little buzz.

Hot steaming Milk Tea served in an earthern tea cup

 

 

• Chaya (Tea) – from the earthy boldness of Kattan Chaya (black tea) to milky roadside-style brew, it’s a ritual for a complete meal.

    | Want to make Kerala-style Tea at home? → [Click here for         the full recipe – from Kattan Chaya to Milky Chaya]

Steaming hot Coffee made with Milk in a porcelain cup held in hand.

  

 

 

 

 

  

• Kaappi (Coffee) – that thick, coffee with milk or humble Black Coffee, served in steel tumblers or in cups, is a soul-hugging        experience.  

    | Want to make simple Coffee at home? → [Click here for the full recipe – from Kattan Kaapi to Instant Coffee]

 

Finish Strong—Whether it’s a steaming glass of Chaya or Kappi, it’s more than just a beverage. It’s the mood-lifter, the spirit-stirrer, and the kickstarter your day deserves. Because every great day begins with a strong start—one soulful sip at a time.



Close-up of Kerala breakfast platter with coconut rice puttu, green gram curry, kadala curry, banana and papadam"

Traditional Kerala Breakfast Menu - Puttu, Kadala, Pazham, Pappadam


A Breakfast Spread That Tells a Story – One Plate at a Time

    From Puttu to Pazham, Kadala Curry to Cheru Payar, and that humble yet heroic Pappadam—this isn’t just a breakfast plate. It’s a celebration of Kerala’s culinary roots, brought alive through tradition, taste, and a touch of nostalgia. Whether you're cooking for the family, feeding nostalgia, or discovering South Indian flavours for the first time, this Kerala-style breakfast menu fits every table and every story.

Feeling inspired?

Try one or try them all! Each dish from this menu comes with its own story, flavour profile, and soul-satisfying comfort.

Don’t miss out on my other traditional favourites.

 → Kerala Breakfast Menus – Traditional Kerala Style Breakfast Dishes

→ South Indian Tiffin Items – From Idli & Dosas, to Upma, Pongal, Kichadi, Sevai and more. It’s All Here...

    Craving more? Subscribe to Essence of Life – Food for handpicked recipes, cultural bites, and food stories, memories and taste.

    And if this post brought back memories (or made new ones), share it, pin it, or send it to someone who loves a good breakfast story.




Newer Posts Older Posts Home
View mobile version
Search Essence of Life - Food

I Me Myself

A vintage-style horizontal oval frame showcasing ornate silver spoons on a dark rustic surface

Essence of Life - Food is all about daily cooking with a simple sense of taste and health. It is all about food. Not a day goes by without eating for most of us, so what we eat matters on the whole. Food in the mode of goodness increases the duration of life, purifies one's existence, and gives strength, health, happiness, and satisfaction. Above all ingredients, the most vital one in my kitchen is love.

Sm @ Essence of Life - Food

Popular Posts

  • How to Make Kerala Kanji | Traditional Rice Porridge with Payar, Chammanthi & Achar
  • Ambalapuzha Paal Payasam Recipe: Divine Kerala Dessert for Festivals & Sadhya
  • How to Cook Kerala Matta Rice - Mastering the Art of Tradition
  • Maida Chapati - All-Purpose Flour Chapati
  • Nendhra Pazham Puzhungiyathu - Steamed Bananas: A Taste of Kerala

Labels

AROUND THE WORLD BAKING BEVERAGES BIRIYANI & PULAO BREAKFAST CURRIES DESSERTS FROM GODS OWN COUNTRY From My Family's Kitchen - Heirloom Recipes GLOSSARY HOW TO... KERALA PALAHARAM KONGU CUISINE KUIH MUIH MALAYSIAN CUISINE MIDDLE EASTERN CUISINE Manvasanai - Flavours from Tamil Soil PICKLES RICE DISHES ROTIS SADHYA SNACKS & SAVOURIES SOUPS SPICE POWDERS TIFFIN ITEMS VIRUNDHU WINES eBook
Ebook - What I Cook - For Onam

Ebook - “What I Cook - For Onam”

Amazon.com/dp/B0CGPVY6J3

Indulge in Kerala’s Culinary Heritage: Traditional Onam Sadhya Recipes, with Expert Serving Tips! Celebrate Onam the authentic way! Discover 25 timeless Kerala Sadya recipes in my ebook. From avial to payasam, bring home the flavours of tradition. Available now on Amazon!

Essence of Life

Subscribe & Follow

© 2026 | Essence of Life - Food

  • Home
  • Ask First
    Please note that all rights for the photographs and texts on this blog, unless otherwise mentioned, rests with the author. Please do not use without permission.
  • Privacy Policy