The food in Vattavada is not your typical Kerala fare. Influenced by its Tamil neighbors and its unique cold-climate produce, the cuisine here is robust, earthy, and incredibly fresh.
The Garlic Influence
Vattavada garlic is famous for a reason. It has a higher oil content and a pungent aroma. The locals use it generously. One must-try dish is the Garlic Kanji (rice porridge), often eaten on cold mornings to keep the body warm.
Fresh from the Farm
Since Vattavada is the "Vegetable Bowl of Kerala," the vegetable stir-fries (Thorans) here are exceptional.
- Carrot Thoran: Made with the sweet winter carrots that are crunchy and vibrant.
- Cabbage Poriyal: Freshly harvested cabbage cooked with coconut and mild spices.
- Butter Beans Curry: A hearty curry made with locally grown butter beans, perfect with chapati.
Strawberry Delights
You cannot leave without trying the strawberry specials. During the season (Jan-April), you can find:
- Fresh Strawberry Juice: No preservatives, just pure fruit nectar.
- Strawberry Jam: Homemade by the local women, chunky and sweet.
- Strawberry Honey: Honey infused with strawberry blossoms.
Dining at Gypsys
At Gypsys Paradiso, we source all our ingredients from the neighboring farms. Our signature Campfire BBQ uses a special marinade made with local herbs and Vattavada garlic.
Food here is simple but soulful. It tastes of the soil, the mist, and the hard work of the farmers.