Savor the Flavors: Must-Try Street Foods in Kochi

Kochi, a coastal gem in Kerala, is celebrated for its vibrant culture, scenic beauty, and especially its tantalizing street food. The city's bustling streets are a food lover's paradise, offering a plethora of dishes that highlight the rich flavors and unique ingredients of Kerala cuisine. Whether you're wandering through the lively lanes of Fort Kochi, the scenic Marine Drive, or the bustling Broadway, you’re in for a delightful culinary adventure. Here are five street foods you absolutely must try when visiting Kochi.

 

1. Kozhuva or Netholi Fry

Kozhuva, also known as Netholi, refers to anchovies, a popular seafood snack in Kochi. These tiny fish are marinated in a blend of spices, coated with a crispy batter, and deep-fried to perfection. The result is a golden-brown, crunchy treat that bursts with flavor in every bite. Typically served with a spicy chutney or a wedge of lemon, Netholi Fry is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

 

Where to Try: Oceanos Restaurant (Elphinstone Residency, Elphinstone Rd, near St. Andrews Parish Hall, Fort Kochi)

 

Price: Approximately ₹150 per plate

Image courtesy: Pinterest

 

2. Unniyappam

Unniyappam is a beloved sweet snack in Kerala, known for its unique taste and texture. These fluffy rice flour fritters are made with jaggery, mashed bananas, cardamom, and grated coconut. Deep-fried until golden brown, Unniyappams have a crispy exterior and a soft, melt-in-your-mouth interior. These sweet treats are available year-round at street food stands and small markets throughout Kochi, making them a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.

 

Where to Try: Kalppathy Snacks Bar (St Ritas Rd, Anjumuri, Chalikkavattom, Vennala, Ernakulam)

 

Price: Approximately ₹50 for a plate of 4-5 pieces

Image courtesy: Marias menu

 

3. Jackfruit and Banana Chips

Kochi's abundance of jackfruit and banana farms makes it the perfect place to indulge in these crispy snacks. Jackfruit chips are made by thinly slicing raw jackfruit, deep-frying it until crispy, and lightly salting it. They offer a unique blend of sweet and savory flavors. Similarly, banana chips are sliced thin, fried to a crisp golden-yellow, and come in various flavors such as plain, salted, and spicy. These chips are a popular snack and make for great souvenirs to take back home.

 

Where to Try: NR Fresh Chips And Halwa Centre (Amman Kovil Road, Chittoor Road, Junction, Shenoys, Ernakulam) or Malabar Chips (Chittoor Rd, Cemetery Junction, Ayyappankavu)

Price: Approximately ₹100-₹150 per 250 grams

Image courtesy: Snack Factory Kerala

 

4. Pazham Pori and Chai

Pazham Pori, also known as banana fritters, is a popular snack perfect for tea time. Ripe bananas are dipped in a batter made of all-purpose flour, turmeric, and sugar, then deep-fried until golden and crispy. These sweet and crunchy fritters are best enjoyed with a steaming cup of chai. Kochi’s tea stalls and street vendors serve fragrant chai made from black tea leaves, milk, and a blend of spices like cardamom, ginger, and cloves. The combination of Pazham Pori and chai is a match made in culinary heaven, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures.

 

Where to Try: Tea stalls across Fort Kochi and Marine Drive

 

Price: Approximately ₹20 per piece of Pazham Pori and ₹15 per cup of chai

Image courtesy: At the Corner of happiness

 

 5. Puttu and Kadala Curry

Puttu, a traditional Kerala breakfast item, is made from steamed cylinders of ground rice layered with coconut. It is typically served with Kadala Curry, a spicy black chickpea curry. This combination is not only a staple breakfast dish but also a popular street food item in Kochi. The soft, fluffy Puttu paired with the rich, spicy Kadala Curry offers a hearty and satisfying meal that is sure to leave you wanting more.

 

Where to Try: Street vendors on Broadway and local breakfast joints

 

Price: Approximately ₹40-₹60 per plate

Image courtesy: Kerala tourism

 

Conclusion

Kochi’s street food scene is a treasure trove of flavors and culinary delights that reflects the rich culinary heritage of Kerala. From crispy seafood snacks and sweet fritters to spicy curries and crunchy chips, there’s something to satisfy every palate. So, the next time you find yourself in Kochi, make sure to explore these street food delights. Not only will they tantalize your taste buds, but they’ll also give you a deeper appreciation of the vibrant food culture that makes Kochi so special. Happy eating!

 

FAQs about Street Foods in Kochi

 

Q1. What are some must-try street foods in Kochi?

Ans: Kochi offers a variety of street foods that are a must-try for any food lover. Some of the top recommendations include:

- Kozhuva or Netholi Fry: Crispy fried anchovies served with spicy chutney or lemon.

- Unniyappam: Sweet, fluffy rice flour fritters made with jaggery, bananas, cardamom, and coconut.

- Jackfruit and Banana Chips: Crispy, thinly sliced and deep-fried jackfruit and banana chips, available in various flavors.

- Pazham Pori and Chai: Sweet banana fritters paired with a steaming cup of spiced chai.

- Puttu and Kadala Curry: Steamed rice cylinders layered with coconut, served with spicy black chickpea curry.

 

Q2. Where can I find the best street foods in Kochi?

Ans: Kochi is brimming with places where you can enjoy delicious street food. Some popular spots include:

- Fort Kochi: Known for its vibrant streets and diverse street food offerings.

- Marine Drive: A scenic spot with numerous food stalls and vendors.

- Broadway: A bustling area perfect for exploring a variety of street foods.

- Specific Recommendations:

  - Oceanos Restaurant for Kozhuva or Netholi Fry.

  - Kalppathy Snacks Bar for Unniyappam.

  - NR Fresh Chips And Halwa Centre or Malabar Chips for jackfruit and banana chips.

  - Tea stalls across Fort Kochi and Marine Drive for Pazham Pori and Chai.

  - Street vendors in Broadway for Puttu and Kadala Curry.

 

Q3. How much do these street foods cost in Kochi?

Ans: Street food in Kochi is not only delicious but also quite affordable. Here are some approximate prices:

- Kozhuva or Netholi Fry: Around ₹150 per plate.

- Unniyappam: Approximately ₹50 for a plate of 4-5 pieces.

- Jackfruit and Banana Chips: About ₹100-₹150 per 250 grams.

- Pazham Pori: Around ₹20 per piece.

- Chai: Approximately ₹15 per cup.

- Puttu and Kadala Curry: Around ₹40-₹60 per plate.

These prices make it easy to indulge in a variety of street foods without breaking the bank, allowing you to fully experience the rich culinary heritage of Kochi.