Kerala

Mattanchère Spice Cake

- Roshan

Christmas cakes, alternatively referred to as plum cakes, boast a storied history that adds to their festive allure. The decadent fruit cakes commonly linked with Christmas have their origins in Twelfth Cakes, traditionally consumed on Twelfth Night, marking the culmination of the 12 Days of Christmas on January 5th in the UK. However, the preparation of Christmas cake has evolved worldwide and is now approached in various ways. India, too, has its unique historical connection to Christmas treats.

The roots of the plum cake can be traced back to England, where in the weeks leading up to Christmas, it was customary to observe fasting and refrain from various indulgences. Chef Jose Varkey, the corporate mentor chef at CGH Earth, drew inspiration from the royal wedding cake of Prince Charles and Diana. He introduced an innovative double-maturing process, which he proudly dubs “The Living Cake.” This technique represents an evolution of flavors that are carefully nurtured over time. The aromatic spices and handpicked currants used in this process are sourced from the spice market of Mattanchery, offering a culinary homage to the renowned spice market in Kochi.

The Pandhal Cafe in Kochi infused this delightful creation, giving it the name “Mattanchère Spice Cake,” also recognized as the matured plum cake. From being a regular fruit cake to what we now proudly call as ‘Double Matured Spice Plum Cake’ is a journey that started from the CGH Earth Hotel’s kitchen and is now part of the Pandhal cake shop is one of the most favorite nostalgic Christmas delicacy. In Kochi, the Pandhal Cafe’s 40-year legacy, Mattanchere Spice Plum Cake, is a sought-after Christmas delight and is available for delivery nationwide via Amazon. Priced at Rs 1595.

Kerala To Introduce Work Near Home Initiative

- Roshan

Kerala is all set to ‘revolutionise’ remote job opportunities with the “Work Near Home” initiative. CM Pinarayi Vijayan announced the same on X, and highlighted how the initiative was meant to provide state-of-the-art workspaces in smaller towns. Construction work on the first centre begins tomorrow at Kottarakkara and is expected to be completed by March 2025. “This initiative underscores Kerala’s vision for sustainable, inclusive development that bridges the urban-rural divide and strength.

This is good news. Unless you have work at home option, if you work in the IT or ITES sector in an MNC in Kerala, you live & work in either Kochi or Trivandrum. No other option unless it’s a smaller company. The big jobs are here. So there are a lot of guys & gals from Calicut, Kottayam, Thrissur, Pattanamthitta, Kannur, Iddukki & Kollam who have moved to either Kochi or TVM and live here. Now some of them can work in their hometowns if this Work Near Home pans out.

Imagine having swanky workspaces where you can rent out spaces and work with your colleagues who are from your hometown even if the office location is elsewhere. It will be good for these cities & towns and keep more money and get better infrastructure in those places.

Kochi & Kerala’s Love For Fried Chicken

- Roshan

Fried chicken is one of the most popular food in the world and Kochi is no exception. From the early 2010s I noticed that we keep getting more and more new restaurants in the city and they try to make them franchises as well by opening up new ones in hopes of making theirs a chain. he name of the game is ‘southern fried chicken’ and we Malayalees / Keralites absolutely love them!However since the first time I posted about the number of outlets have closed. MarryBrowns and SFC Plus in particular are the ones that I miss.

All this is due to the large population of expats (loving called Non-resident Indians or NRIs), including my family, in the Arabian gulf. Most of these countries where Malayalees flock to for jobs, along with their families, had already had plenty of KFC outlets. After KFC took the Gulf region by storm decades ago, many locally owned franchises have tried to replicate that success and tweak the recipe and make some changes. Chicking is one such as was SFC Plus (the latter is still running in the Gulf though they have closed don their 3 centers here.

So when I take a look back so many of them closed down. Chikos was another one that had about 2 to 3 outlets in Kochi alone and although they close down, they thrive in a few other cities in the state. Krispy Chicken, which I never got to try, also closed down their outlets in Kochi. So what survives? Well Chicking who were the OG place in Kochi and Kerala in general still rules supreme. They are known to be that family places choice. They are followed closely by KFC who have opened more outlets in the state and in Kochi. Doing amazingly well.

The only other international one we have is Popeyes which is the newest entrant. They only have 1 outlet in Kochi and they do have stalls in a couple of other cities in the state. I eagerly await for them to expand more. AFC & AJWA opened up in the last few years and they are doing decent business. Kochi.in opened very near me and I think that is their only outlet but it’s in a prime location so they should do well. Fried King is ok, nothing special, and not pictured is King’s Crust who have recently expanded and their Korean fried chicken option is amazing. Also not pictured is the famous AlBaik from Saudi but I haven’t tried them yet and finally Maheens Broasted Chicken, which I am yet to try.

Choosing The 10 From The 22 Kerala Dishes

- Roshan

I just saw the list of 22 dishes from Kerala Cuisine that you must try. Having gone through that I feel that I can throw some of them out as “must try” and only include these 10 from the list :

  • Puttu and Kadala Curry
  • Appam with Stew – One of The Most Popular Kerala Food Items
  • Kerala Prawn Curry
  • Naadan Beef Fry or Kerala Style Beef Fry
  • Malabar Parota
  • Kerala Style Fish Molee
  • Banana Fritters
  • Palada Payasam
  • Thalassery Biryani
  • Chatti Pathiri

My Favourite Choice For Ice Cream, Pizza, Donuts & Burgers

- Roshan

Write about your favourite place to eat: ice cream, poutine, pie, burgers (pick your poison)

Well since we don’t get poutine I will substitute it with pizza and since we got really go for pie, I am going to go for donuts.

Ice cream : Hands down the best/favourite is Caravan ice cream parlour which is a childhood favourite. It’s located in Marine Drive right next to Broadway. Or atleast the OG place is. They have a couple of other outlets but this one is the one to go to. Or order in.

Pizza : Here I will go with P60 formerly known as 360 Degree, which is the best place for thinner crusts, real pork sausage/bacon/pepperoni an excellent cheeses. Most of their pizzas will satisfy you so much, even if they have now increase their prices.

Donuts : I am not a big donut person, in that I rarely do ever get one. But if were to get some Donut Factory would the best choice. Not only do they have a varied selection, their donuts are delicious. Nothing to battle franchises like Dunkin Donuts or Krispy Creme or Tim Hortons but then we don’t have any of them here yet.

Burgers :  Hands down the best place for burgers is The Burger Junction, which also has a couple of outlets because the demand is so high. Their beef and chicken burgers are the best in India and they also have pork products. Hmmm now I am craving one so bad.

Prompt from 70 Travel Prompts or Topics for Your Blog for the Month of November at DownshiftingPro

Haunted Kerala : Morris Bungalow, Vagamon Heights

- Roshan

Morris bungalow is one of the most haunted places in Kerala. This historic mansion, which was once the abode of an Englishman named Morris, has earned a notorious reputation as one of the most haunted places in the region. The story of Morris and the bizarre occurrences that have taken place within the bungalow’s walls have captivated the imaginations of locals and paranormal enthusiasts alike for generations. During the era of British rule in India, Morris Bungalow was a symbol of opulence and grandeur. Morris, a young Englishman, inherited this luxurious mansion from his ancestors. However, beneath the grand facade of the mansion lay a tale of family discord and tragedy.

It is said that Morris and his father had a bitter argument, the details of which have been lost to time. Unable to bear the weight of his despair, Morris allegedly took his own life within the confines of the mansion. The circumstances surrounding his death remain shrouded in mystery, adding to the eerie aura that surrounds Morris Bungalow.

Locals and visitors alike have reported spine-chilling encounters and unexplainable phenomena within the bungalow’s walls. Some of the most commonly reported occurrences include:

  1. Mysterious Shadows: Visitors have reported seeing shadowy figures moving about the mansion, often in rooms that should be empty. These fleeting apparitions are said to resemble Morris himself, adding to the speculation that his spirit may still linger within the mansion.
  2. Phantom Footsteps: Echoes of footsteps have been heard when there is no one present in the mansion. These phantom footfalls often reverberate through the hallways, adding to the eerie atmosphere.
  3. Disembodied Voices: Whispers and faint voices are occasionally heard emanating from the walls, as though the mansion itself holds secrets that it is eager to reveal.
  4. Cold Spots: Drastic drops in temperature have been recorded in certain areas of the mansion, even during hot and humid Kerala summers. These cold spots are often accompanied by an unsettling feeling of being watched.
  5. Objects in Motion: Items within the mansion have been known to move on their own, seemingly propelled by an unseen force. This phenomenon has led some to believe that Morris’s spirit is restless and trying to communicate.

Some believe that Morris’s untimely death left his spirit trapped within the mansion, doomed to wander its halls for eternity. Others speculate that the mansion is cursed, bearing witness to the unresolved conflicts that tore Morris’s family apart.

Haunted Kerala : The Ghost Of Lakkidi Gateway

- Roshan

Located in the Wayanad district of Kerala, Lakkidi Gateway is the shortest route to cross over the Thamarassery pass. However, the discovery of this route is what has turned the gateway into one of the most haunted places in Kerala.

The Story: It is said that in colonial times, a British engineer took help from a person named Karinthandan to find Lakkidi and in order to attain the credit for finding the way himself, he killed Karinthandan. Later, many travelers passing the new route reported the wandering of the soul of Karinthandan. A witch doctor exorcised Karinthandan’s spirit and tied it to a tree using an iron chain. The tree and chain are now a tourist attraction and pilgrim spot. The tree is located near the highway at Lakkidi, opposite the Pepper Wayanad Gate hotel.

Karinthandan’s spirit is said to haunt the area, appearing as a phantom figure and screaming threats.  Some say that trespassers have heard terrifying screams and screeches in the evening.

Is Beer & Alcohol Delivery Finally Happening In Kerala?

- Roshan

Now I know that some states and cities in India already have a limited alcohol delivery set up since Covid but Kerala hasn’t been gifted such a service till date. The state government has soften it’s stand against the delivery of alcohol to consumers in limited quantities and starting with only beer & wine at first.

Earlier this year a proposal submitted to the Kerala government by online food delivery aggregator Swiggy to supply liquor to consumer’s doorsteps in collaboration with distribution companies has shaken a hornet’s nest in the state. The state government received the proposal from Swiggy on the first week of July. Following the move, Kerala has been debating the potential social and economic impacts of online liquor distribution, including evaluating the effects on local businesses, public health and safety.

Kerala’s Excise policy prohibits selling alcoholic beverages to persons aged below 23, there is a risk that individuals may provide false information or use someone else’s account to receive alcohol deliveries. It can be challenging to verify the recipient’s age during home delivery, which increases the risk of alcohol being delivered to underage individuals and a proper, foolproof mechanism is needed. We should insist on id proof deliveries and that at the time of delivery there has to be an adult over 23 present to show the id proof and accept the delivery.

Popeye’s Louisiana Kitchen Opening A Franchise Outlet In Kochi

- Roshan

It’s finally here, though I had no clue that it would be. Well, almost here.  Famous American fried chicken company Popeye’s Louisiana Kitchen is finally coming to Kochi. As shared in a previous post two days ago, the fast food franchise is opening up an outlet on the 5th floor of Center Square Mall which is under 2 kilometers away from me. It’s one of those fast food restaurant chains which I have seen online for years and years but didn’t think that they would come here. But here we are in 2024 and soon I will be able too taste some of it.

Founded in New Orleans, Louisiana in 1972, Popeyes has more than 50 years of rich history and culinary tradition. Popeyes distinguishes itself with a unique New Orleans style menu featuring a range of offerings that include Chicken Sandwich, Popeyes Signature Chicken and Chicken Tenders. The passion for its Louisiana heritage and flavourful authentic food has made Popeyes one of the world’s largest chicken quick service restaurants with over 3,300 restaurants around the world.

Popeyes entered India in January 2022 with an outlet in Bengaluru. So far, Jubilant has only opened Popeyes restaurants in southern India as part of its cluster approach and has rolled out the brand in cities including Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Coimbatore, Madurai and Manipal. I see that they have one outlet in Kozhikode, which opened on the 3rd of April and they have one more opening on the 26th of June. I am not sure as to when it is opening here but atleast it seems to be soon.

5 Top Instagrammable Places In Kochi, Kerala

- Roshan

1. Fort Kochi

Considered by many as the heart of Kochi, Fort Kochi is the country’s first European township and an embodiment of beauty and grace. Here you will find the Chinese fishing nets; in fact, it is the only place in the world sans China where these fishing nets can be found spattered across the harbour. There were 17 Chinese nets to begin with; however, only 8 remain presently. Another beautiful place to visit in Fort Kochi is the Old Kochi, a tiny fishing village. Old Kochi is one of the best Instagrammable places for travellers who just wish to unwind and relax for a while.

2. Mattancherry Palace

Mattancherry Palace is one of the best Instagrammable places in Kochi. Located in the western part of Kochi, Mattancherry is an old locality and a very popular tourist spot. Mattancherry gets its name from an old Brahmin house which was called Ancherry Mattom, but instead got pronounced as Mattancherry by the European colonizers. Just walking through the vibrant, bustling streets of this beautiful locality will leave you in awe and wonder. One of the main attractions here is the Mattancherry Palace which was built in 1557 by the Portuguese and gifted to Veera Kerela Verma, the then ruler of Kochi. Later it got renovated by the Dutch, and this is the reason why most people also know it as the Dutch Palace. The palace is a beautiful combination of the Kerela and European style architecture and is known for its spacious halls and exotic murals covering a length of around 300 Square km depicting scenes from Hindu epics of Ramayana and Mahabharata.

3. Jew Town

Jew Town located in Mattancherry is known for the small antique shops sprawled on both sides of the narrow road selling beautiful apparel, trinkets, gems, sculptures, and other home decor items. It was once an important neighbourhood for the Malabari and Paradesi Jews who settled here in the 11th and 16th century respectively. Jew town was later turned into a prominent trading spot for the Jews; however, most of the Jews living here have now moved back to Israel, and now tourists visit this place mainly for its rustic charm, delicious food joints, and vibrant shops selling some of the most exotic artefacts you can ever find.

4. Marine Drive

Marine Drive is one of the best Instagrammable places in Kochi, not only for locals but also for tourists because of the splendid backdrop of Kerala backwaters and the picturesque beauty that will leave you mesmerized. This walkway stretches for around 3 km and is a great place to take a leisurely stroll or spend time with friends and family and enjoy the magnificent sunset. Boat tours are also available for people who wish to enjoy the beauty of Kerala backwaters and the different kinds of flora and fauna in a more authentic way. There are several restaurants and shopping complexes near the area, so if you wish to enjoy some retail therapy after enjoying the serene beauty, Marine Drive won’t disappoint you.

5. Kerala Folklore Theatre and Museum

Interested in the exotic art and rich heritage of India? Then do not give Kerala Folklore Museum a miss. Opened in 2009, this three-story museum is known for its beauty and a massive collection of wooden, stone, and bronze artefacts. This museum is basically a reconstruction of more than 20 heritage buildings of Kerala. Built using inspiration from three different architectural styles of Travancore, Malabar, and Kochi, this museum is certainly a treat for your eyes. Inside, you can find different types of sculptures, paintings, musical instruments, oil lamps, utensils, and tribal artwork on display. The museum is open every day for visitors from 10 a.m – to 5 p.m; except on Mondays and public holidays.a

My Five Favourite Watering Holes In Kochi

- Roshan

Ava Lounge, Radisson Blue 

A vibrant lounge with talented bartenders is as close as it gets to a clubbing atmosphere in Kochi. Though there is no official dance floor, the underground dub music works up the vibe and has people grooving in no time. They have live musicians playing even better music on Saturdays and Sundays making it all the more popular.

Mezzo, Avenue Regent

Situated in the heart of Ernakulam, Mezzo is one of the most popular resto-bars in town. It’s chic, casual and almost always packed. The place has an extensive international selection of liquor and wine along with an exclusive cocktail list. The food too is par excellence. A delectable range of European and Oriental fusion alongside, local seafood delicacies, tapas touchings, and steaks are the perfect companion to your tipple. If you do visit Mezzo, pop by the cafe next door called Coco tree famous for its mouth-watering desserts.

Velocity, Hotel Crystal Plaza

Boy has this place changed. From their decent quiet beginnings as a bar for mostly men to come and hangout and have a few drinks while munching on delicious snacks and lunch, it is now a happening spot with live music, djs and dancing. They expanded the place and I think they have had a huge investment from an actor or two who bought the place. Women days and specials bring in the feminine crowd as well.

Couchyn, Grand Hotel

A nice cool, cozy bar with a quiet sedate ambience. Centrally located with ample parking space, it also helps that it is attached the famous and oldest hotel in the city, The Grand. The food is mostly Indianized western dishes and Indian favourites. They have beer, all kinds of alcohol and some cocktails. Family friendly as well and not that expensive.

Blue Rock Resto Bar, Olive Downtown

An ultimate party destination in the area, Blue Rock Resto Bar in Elamkulam caters to all the needs of its youthful and energetic clients. They know the recipe of having a smashing time and ticks all the items on the checklist including swanky decor, electric ambiance, good variety in booze, delicious food and more. From hand-crafted drinks to savory dishes, flavor always takes center stage here. It offers some of the finest options for a night out in the town. 

Four Romantic Activities To Do In Cochin On Valentine’s Day

- Roshan

Alleppey Houseboat with Candle Light Dinner (Overnight)

Best Houseboat for Honeymoon couples in Alleppey. Cruise with an amazing premium dining experience in fully air-conditioned cabins & rooms. An Alleppey Backwater Cruise In Our Premium Houseboats Is Nothing Short Of Soul Soothing. Dining on Board. Exclusive Check-in. Enjoy a romantic candle light dinner and experience the amazing time while you enjoy the fantastic candle light dinner in backwaters.

2 Days Trip to Athirappilly Falls & Alleppey

Visit the best two experiences in Kerala – Alleppey backwater and Athirapally waterfalls. In this short weekend trip, the package covers the biggest waterfall in Kerala and Alleppey’s backwater experience by a private shikkara trip. Though this package involves a little bit more road travel, this is one of the best packages during monsoon in Kerala when the waterfall is in full swing.

Private Day Trip to Munnar from Cochin

Visit the South Indian hill station of Munnar, known for its tea plantations and fantastic views, with this private day tour from Kochi. Highlights include a tea museum, Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam, and the Munnar Rose Garden, with time to stop for lunch and shopping along the way. Hotel transfers in an air-conditioned vehicle will be provided A professional guide will show you around and answer questions No need to pack food, as lunch is included in the price of the tour Private tour for a flexible, personal experience.

Full Day Cochin Sightseeing Tour

Kochi Taxi offers a top-rated Cochin City Sightseeing Tour for tourists seeking to explore the rich historical land of Kochi. You can start your tour of Kochi with a sunrise at the Fort Kochi Beach. The calm and peaceful atmosphere of the beach is very refreshing.

Miserable Weather As The Rainfall Lashes On The State

- Roshan

It’s been miserable in terms of weather the last few days. The rains, which have been a little less than the previous years, has been in heavy flow since before the weekend, Thursday to be exact, and it has picked up midweek and it’s been a torrential rainfall since. And it is expected to fall heavily till the next Tuesday. In the wake of continuous rains, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a yellow alert warning in 10 districts – Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Kannur and Kasaragod.

Rain, accompanied by gusty winds, lashed various parts of Kerala since Thursday night. Yellow alert indicates heavy rain between 6 cm-11 cm. Thunderstorms with lightning accompanied by gusty winds were likely in many places for the next two days in Kerala. People have been asked to exercise caution as Cherthala & parts of Alapuzzha had recorded 7-8cm of rainfall, while in Kochi it has been about 6cm.

All this makes me not want to go out to work. I feel like cozying in bed, taking naps and watching a bunch of tv shows or movies. And ofcourse lots and lots of coffee and hot snacks. I do not feel like going into the shower and shave and go to work. But I guess I have to.

Sharjah Shake : A Delicious Delight From Kerala

- Roshan

During one of his experiments, a juice & shake owner in Calicut, Kerala made a drink with banana, frozen milk and sugar. He served it to a bunch of guys watching the Sharjah Cup in an adjacent shop. They obviously loved it and enquired about the name. He hastily cooked up the name – Sharjah Shake.

Ingredients

 10 mins  2-serving
  1. 1 packet Milk (1/2 litre) (frozen)
  2. 2 bananas Small (Njalipoovan preferred)
  3. 2 Tablespoons Horlicks or Complan or Boost
  4. as required (normally 3 tbsp) To Taste Sugar
  5. 5 Cashew nuts (good if they are roasted)
  6. 1 Scoop Vanilla ice cream

Cooking Instructions

  1. Step 1 : Take the frozen milk packet, without opening it, crush the frozen milk well with a chappathi roller.
  2. Step 2 : Put in in a mixer. Add the following ingredients, two bananas,sugar as required by you. horicks or boost and  3 pieces of cashew nut
  3. Step 3 : Mix it well in the mixer. Add one table spoon of vanilla icecream and mix for 5 seconds. turn off the mixer after you are satisfied with the thickness of the shake.
  4. Step 4 : Pour it into a glass, add the remaining cashew nuts and place one scoop of vanilla on the top. Cherry or toppings that you like may also be added.
  5. Step 5 : Simple enough – enjoy
  6. Step 6 : Note: to bring a juicy twist to the shake, mix couple of small pineapple slices along with the bananas.

4 Awesome & Delicious Kerala Snacks For The Monsoon

- Roshan

Parippu vada

Lentil or dal fritters is one of the most popular snacks offered at tea stalls across Kerala. This deep-fried dish made of Toor dal has all the ingredients that make it an indulgent snack. It  To make parippu vada, you have to grind Toor dal partially and mix it with chopped green chillies, ginger, shallots, curry leaves and salt. Roll out small portions and deep fry until they become golden brown. Savour the taste with a hot cup of hot tea.

 Pazham pori

Banana fritters or pazham pori is a traditional tea time snack in Kerala. It is simply a slice of ripe banana coated with a batter made of maida or rice flour, and deep fried in coconut oil. Crispy on the outside with sweet and juicy ripe bananas nestled inside, it is the perfect snack with a cup of tea for a rainy evening.

Pakoda

During the monsoon season, one can easily spot pakode made of several vegetables like onion, cauliflower, potato and even brinjal that are dipped in a gram flour batter and fried to perfection. Some hot onion pakoda with coffee is awesome on a rainy day.

Kerala Samosa

Much better than the Punjabi and famous in North India potato filled samosas, Kerala style samosas are way better. They are a bit smaller & crispier than the potato filled ones and for filling you can choose from beef, chicken, onion or veggies. Goes great with tea, coffee or cold drinks.

5 Things That Go Up In Sale During The Kerala Monsoon

- Roshan

1. Raincoat

A raincoat is one of the essential monsoon accessories one needs to buy before the monsoon. You cannot do without a raincoat to battle the heavy showers that pour down your shoulder. Try PVC raincoats that can act as an excellent shield to the heavy downpour. If you want something fashionable, go for the see-through raincoats that don’t hide your outfit and looks trendy on you.

2. Umbrella

A monsoon umbrella is a key accessory to sudden rains and downpours. What if it rains suddenly while going to the office? You cannot go wet and drenched in the morning. Hence it is advisable to keep an umbrella in your handbag the entire monsoon season. Make sure that your umbrella is light in weight and small enough to fit in your handbag.

3. Waterproof Phone Covers And Pouch

Protective phone covers and pouches are again necessary monsoon accessories as they protect your expensive mobile phones from getting wet and corrupted due to water. Don’t forget to place your chargers and earphones also in a waterproof pouch to avoid damage due to rain.

4. Waterproof Bags

Waterproof monsoon handbags are the perfect choice to carry to your workplace when it’s raining cats and dogs. These bags look cool and can hold all your stuff. Waterproof bags include backpacks, laptop bags, duffle bags, messenger bags etc. You can also opt for monsoon purses that protect your wallet, cash, cards etc., as they are waterproof and at the same time easy to carry around.

5. Medicines

There are a lot of chances of falling sick during the monsoons. Virus spread is common during this time. Hence it would be safe to buy basic medicines for cold, cough or fever. If your illness prolongs, it is advisable to visit the doctor. Monsoon accessories can be an essential item that you require most during the monsoon. So make a list of things that you must have at home before the monsoon. Equipping yourself for the monsoon avoids chaos and confusion at the last minute. Moreover, you won’t find it comfortable to go out and shop during the rainy season. So be prepared and enjoy the climate as much as possible.