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Often called the land of festivals, India is always on a ‘celebration’ mode. In two days, Indians will be gearing up for Rakhi, then in another week, we’d be celebrating Janmashtami. People from Kerala are already immersed in the celebrations of Onam. Onam is one of the key festivals of Kerala. The word Onam translates to rice harvest, the festival celebrates the homecoming of the mythical King Mahabali. King Mahabali was a kind-hearted, demon king who ruled over all the three worlds; his rule is described as the golden era for Kerala in the Vaishnava mythology. This year, Onam festivities started on 12th August and will conclude on 23rd August. On the occasion of Onam, people gather for Sadya, a homely feast comprising of at least 20-30 dishes, which is served on banana leaves. Here are some desserts you should especially look out for:
1. Unni Appam
This dessert will make up for all your fried and decadent cravings. This sweet and crispy snack made of rawa, maida, banana, jaggery and cardamom has just the right amount of sweetness and fragrance to prepare you for a much more indulgent fare.
2. Palada Pradhaman
Inarguably one of the most common suspects at every Sadya ever. Palada Pradhaman is a traditional dessert made with rice flakes (palada), full fat coconut milk and jaggery, guranteeing indulgence overload.
3. Rava Kesari
Not just Kerala, Rava Kesari is a popular dessert across Tamil Nadu and Karnataka too. Rava or semolina is cooked vigorously in milk and sugar until it obtains a porridge-like consistency. Ghee lends a lovely velvety sheen and texture, and Saffron, a brilliant yellow hue.
4. Kozhukatta
If you are a fan of modak, then meet its cousin from Kerala. Kozhukatta is a dumpling-like dessert made with a rice flour coating, it is stuffed with a tempting mixture made of coconut, ghee and sesame seeds.
5. Parippu Payasam
When it comes to Sadya, there is no upper limit for Paysam. Parippu Payasam or Parippu Pradhaman is a sapid sweet pudding made using lentils, coconut milk and jaggery. Its luscious consistency is something that never ceases to amaze us.
Happy Onam to everybody!
