Every Malayali around the world has a few factors that unite them despite their varied differences. And one of the most discerning factors of the lot would undoubtedly be an unquestionable love for payasam! An Onam sadya or a special occasion is not complete without the delectable taste of payasam on the palate. From milk based, jaggery-based to even modern variations involving fruits and vegetables, payasam may have evolved through the ages to fit the desires and needs of the people, but the classic varieties still reign supreme in their hearts and tummies.
With the introduction of readymade payasam mixes in recent years, such as palada mix in Kerala, it has now become easier than ever before for anyone anywhere to make instant payasam in a jiffy. Let us dive into finding out the most popular top 5 payasams in Kerala:
1. Palada Payasam
You could call it the showstopper or the champion, Palada payasam is one of the most popular varieties of payasam in Kerala. Made with small-sized rice flakes or ada, milk and sugar, making Palada payasam may seem easy at first but it requires a certain nuance and skill to perfect it. With a distinct taste and flavor only a few can master, Palada payasam when made to perfection puts all other payasams to shame. The popularity of Palada payasam has prompted many FMCG companies to bring out instant Palada payasam mixes that sell out like hotcakes throughout the year.
2. Gothambu Payasam
The unsung hero of payasams, Gothambu payasam is made from broken wheat and coconut milk. Gothambu payasam is one of the lighter variations of payasam and is one of the most preferred options for those with a slightly less sweet tooth. Those who are vegan or lactose intolerant may also find Gothambu payasam to be their calling among t
he other popular varieties out there. Gothambu payasam is also one of the easiest to make with the ingredients easily available anywhere.
3. Semiya Payasam
Made from vermicelli, Semiya payasam is yet another popular milk-based payasam that has a huge fan following. One that takes less than 20 minutes to prepare, Semiya payasam is very easy and effortless to make. For the same reason, there is no special occasion required to prepare Semiya payasam. It is essentially made by roasting vermicelli, simmering it in milk until it is cooked, sweetening it with sugar and finally garnishing it with roasted cashew nuts and raisins. It can be e
njoyed hot or cold in equal measure and even with a banana as an added accouterment.
4. Ada Payasam
One of the oldest varieties of payasam, Ada pradhaman is yet another ada or rice flakes-based payasam. Unlike Palada payasam, Ada payasam is not a milk based payasam; rather it is made from bigger, bite-sized flakes of ada, jaggery and coconut milk. Ada payasam is a more traditionally rich version of payasam which is popularly made for special occasions especially in the Southern parts of Kerala.
5. Parippu Payasam
Last but not least, Parippu payasam rounds up our list of top 5 payasams in Kerala. Made with parippu or split mung dal, Parippu payasam combines jaggery and coconut milk to make a rich and sinful dessert. Parippu payasam is usually prepared on special occasions like Onam or weddings, but like any other payasam it can also be enjoyed just for the sake of it without having to wait for an occasion as such.
Payasams may come in different tastes and colours, but a Malayali’s love for payasam remains the same always. The beauty of payasam is that there is something for everyone out there – such is the sheer variety of options that payasam comes in.
Enjoy a hassle-free payasam at home with the range of instant payasam mixes from Double Horse. Made with the finest quality ingredients and the tastiest flavors, you can be transported to another world with Double Horse payasam mixes. Buy it from your nearest supermarket or order online here.
