Tali Shiva Temple, Kozhikode

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The way to peace and spirituality is way easier when you depend on the places of worship. Tali is a temple of peace and spirituality. Each step inside this temple gives you meaning for your life and your time. The lord shiva and his positive vibrants creates a positive aura around this place. Tali Shiva Temple dates back to the 14th century, the temple attracts thousands of devotees each year, especially during Maha Shivaratri, when special rituals and cultural events are held. Daily poojas and offerings are conducted with great devotion, following traditional Kerala temple customs.

Architectural Excellence

The temple is a classic example of Kerala-style architecture, marked by intricate carvings, sloping tiled roofs, and wooden interiors. The sreekovil, is built in a circular design, a style typical of Kerala temples. Inside, devotees are welcomed into a peaceful ambiance, filled with the scent of oil lamps and the sound of rhythmic chants.A unique feature of the temple is its beautiful wooden carvings and mural paintings, which depict episodes from Hindu mythology. These details make the Tali Shiva Temple not just a spiritual center, but also a cultural and artistic treasure.

Religious Significance

Apart from Lord Shiva, there are also shrines dedicated to Sri Krishnan, Narasimhamoorthy, Tali Ganapathi, Thevaram Ganapathi, Bhagavathi, Ayyappan, Naagam, and Valayanadu Bhagavathi making it a multi-deity temple complex.

A Calm Retreat

Located just a few kilometers from Kozhikode Railway Station, the temple provides a spiritual comfort from the city’s hustle. It’s easy to reach, making it a must-visit for tourists exploring the Malabar region. Whether you’re on a spiritual quest or a cultural journey, the Tali Shiva Temple offers a profound sense of peace and reflection.

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Top 10 Spices from Kozhikode That Are a Kitchen Essential

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Kozhikode, formerly known as Calicut, once lured traders from Arabia, China, and Europe continues to be a spice lover’s paradise, with markets brimming with the warm, earthy, and aromatic treasures of the region. These ten Kozhikode spices are absolute must-haves if you want to redesign your kitchen and improve your cooking.

1. Black Pepper

Locally called kurumulaku, Kozhikode’s black pepper is renowned for its  aroma and bold flavor. Often referred to as “black gold”, this spice was a driving force behind ancient spice trade routes.

2. Cardamom

One of the most prized spices from the Western Ghats, cardamom pods from Kozhikode are known for their intense aroma and slightly sweet flavor.

3. Clove

These tiny dried flower buds pack a punch with their intense flavor and aroma. Sourced from local estates, Kozhikode’s cloves are a staple in Malabar and Middle Eastern cuisine.

4. Cinnamon

Often mistaken with cassia, the true cinnamon from Kerala has a sweet, delicate flavor. Kozhikode markets sell it in tightly rolled, light brown sticks.

5. Nutmeg

Native to the spice islands but cultivated in Kerala, nutmeg from Kozhikode is valued for its warm, nutty flavor. You’ll often find it sold whole, along with the lacy red mace that covers it.

6. Mace

The delicate, bright-red covering of the nutmeg seed, mace is subtly spicier and more floral than nutmeg. It’s less common in everyday kitchens but essential in biryanis and garam masala.

7. Turmeric

Kozhikode’s turmeric is deep golden, earthy, and medicinal. It’s not just a spice, but a revered Ayurvedic ingredient.

8. Dry Ginger

Dry ginger from Kozhikode is pungent and peppery, often used in traditional Ayurvedic concoctions as well as in cooking.

9. Fennel Seeds

Mildly sweet with a licorice-like flavor, fennel seeds from Kerala are used both as a digestive and a flavor enhancer.

10. Fenugreek

These slightly bitter seeds are indispensable in Kerala cuisine, especially in pickles and spice powders.

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Ripe Banana Dishes That’ll Blow Your Mind

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When it comes to ripe bananas, most people think about eating them plain or tossing them into smoothies. But ripe bananas are superheroes, ready to transform your meals from ordinary to extraordinary. From classic South Indian snacks to decadent desserts, these soft, sweet fruits pack incredible flavor and versatility. Ready to have your mind blown? Here are some mouthwatering ripe banana dishes you have to try!

1. Pazham Pori

A beloved snack from Kerala, Pazham Pori is simple yet addictive. Ripe plantains (a variety of banana) are sliced lengthwise, dipped in a sweet batter made with flour, sugar, and a pinch of cardamom, then deep-fried until golden and crispy. The result? Crunchy on the outside, soft and sweet on the inside a perfect teatime treat with chai!

2. Pazham Nirachathu

If you’re a fan of indulgent sweets, Pazham Nirachathu is a must-try. This dish involves ripe bananas stuffed with a rich mixture of grated coconut, jaggery, cardamom, and sometimes roasted nuts, then gently fried in coconut oil until caramelized. It’s a heavenly combination of textures and flavors — sweet, nutty, and utterly comforting.

3. Banana Foster

Banana Foster needs no introduction. Ripe bananas sautéed in butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and rum create a caramelized, boozy sauce poured over vanilla ice cream. The contrast between warm bananas and cold ice cream is irresistible, a true showstopper!

4. Ripe Banana Pancakes

Mash ripe bananas into your pancake batter for naturally sweet, moist pancakes with a lovely banana aroma. Top with honey, nuts, or chocolate chips for a breakfast that feels like dessert.

5. Banana Bread with a Twist

Everyone loves banana bread, but jazz it up with walnuts, dark chocolate chunks, or peanut butter swirls. Use oat or almond flour for a healthier take that’s just as moist and flavorful.

6. Frozen Banana Bites

Dip banana chunks in melted chocolate, sprinkle with nuts or coconut, then freeze. These frozen banana bites are a refreshing, guilt-free dessert loved by kids and adults alike.

7. Banana Smoothie Bowl

Blend ripe bananas with yogurt, almond milk, and protein powder, then top with granola, fresh fruits, chia seeds, and honey. A delicious and healthy breakfast or post-workout snack.

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Why Kozhikode is Becoming the Go-To Shopping Destination for Outsiders

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Kozhikode, has also emerged as a thriving shopping hotspot, attracting visitors from all over Kerala and beyond. Whether you’re a local traveler or a curious outsider, Kozhikode’s unique blend of traditional markets, modern malls, and specialty shops offers a shopping experience that’s both exciting and memorable.

Here’s why Kozhikode is fast becoming the go-to shopping destination for outsiders:

1. A Perfect Mix of Tradition and Modernity

Kozhikode beautifully balances its age-old bazaars with contemporary shopping centers. Traditional markets like SM Street (Sweet Meat Street) still buzz with vibrant energy, where you can find spices, textiles, handcrafted souvenirs, and local delicacies at very low prices. Meanwhile, modern malls like Lulu Mall and Focus Mall provide a more cosmopolitan shopping experience with branded stores, cafes, and entertainment options.

2. Affordable Shopping for All Budgets

Unlike many other metropolitan shopping hubs, Kozhikode offers something for every budget. Whether you’re looking for luxurious silk sarees or simple cotton garments, handcrafted souvenirs or mass-produced goods, you’ll find a range of options that won’t break the bank. This affordability, combined with quality, makes Kozhikode a favorite among tourists.

3. Welcoming Shopping Atmosphere

The local vendors and shopkeepers in Kozhikode are famous for their welcoming nature.Visitors often appreciate the friendly bargaining culture, where conversations and stories are shared along with prices. This personal touch creates a shopping environment that feels authentic and inviting, making it more than just a transaction.

4. Easy Accessibility and Growing Infrastructure

With improved transport links, including the nearby Calicut International Airport and well-connected roadways, Kozhikode is easier to reach than ever. The city’s growing infrastructure supports a flourishing retail scene, with new malls and shopping complexes popping up alongside traditional markets, catering to a diverse clientele.

6. Shopping Plus Cultural Exploration

Shopping in Kozhikode isn’t just about buying things it’s about experiencing the local culture. Many shopping areas are close to historical landmarks, temples, and eateries, allowing visitors to combine retail therapy with sightseeing and culinary adventures. This makes a day out in Kozhikode a rich and rewarding experience.



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How Kozhikode Became Kerala’s Flavor Capital

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              Have you ever wondered why Kozhikode has so many flavors, and how they manage to balance them to create new varieties? Spices are playing a bigger and bigger role in shaping people’s food culture. The Malabar region, especially Kozhikode, is better known for its diverse varieties of foods than for any other specialty. People in Kozhikode are more likely to experiment with spices to create new dishes, and many of these have been highly successful and gained popularity even among outsiders. This is one of the reasons why Kozhikode is called Kerala’s flavour capital; another is its rich history of spice trading.

A Melting Pot of Culture

Kozhikode’s position as a major port city historically made it easy for traders from Arabia, Persia, China, and Europe. These interactions introduced an array of exotic spices, cooking methods, and ingredients to the local cuisine. And it resulted in the creation of unique flavors through the use of diverse spices. This cultural mixture is evident in Kozhikode’s iconic dish like Kozhikode biryani. 

The Spice Trade Journey

Long before modern kitchens and restaurants, Kozhikode was globally recognized for its spice trade. Black pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves these spices were once the gold of the Malabar Coast, drawing merchants from distant lands. The spice trade not only boosted Kozhikode’s economy but also created an intricate knowledge of spices and their uses. This expertise was passed down generations, making Kozhikode’s food both aromatic and complex in flavor.

Street Food Culture

No discussion of Kozhikode’s flavor profile is complete without mentioning its legendary street food culture. The bustling streets and markets come alive with vendors selling a wide variety of goods. The markets are especially vibrant at night, particularly along the beachside. Nowadays, people in Kozhikode are embracing nightlife, making the streets even more active during these hours.The city’s famed tuck shops and small eateries serve up traditional snacks and meals that reflect the perfect balance of spice, sweetness, and tang. These affordable and flavorful treats have become an integral part of Kozhikode’s identity and a must-try for anyone visiting.

Innovation Rooted in Tradition

While Kozhikode respects its roots, it is also a place where chefs and home cooks innovate by combining old and new. From reimagining traditional dishes with modern presentations to using locally sourced organic ingredients, Kozhikode’s food scene remains dynamic and evolving.

Festivals and Food

Food is central to Kozhikode’s festivals and celebrations. During events like Eid, Onam, and Ramadan, the city comes alive with special dishes and communal feasts that bring people together. This festive spirit reinforces the city’s status as a hub where flavor and culture merge.

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Kozhikode’s Historic Spice Markets: A Journey Through Time and Flavor

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 The spice markets of Kozhikode are not just places to shop; they are living museums of trade, culture, and sensory wonder, offering a vivid journey through time and flavor. Centuries ago, it was here that the great explorer Vasco da Gama first set foot in India, forever linking Kozhikode to global history. The spice markets you explore today stand as vibrant testaments to this rich legacy, where the whispers of traders past mingle with the lively bargaining of today’s vendors.

The market is alive with motion—vendors expertly weighing spices on old-fashioned scales, customers carefully inspecting each grain, and the occasional clink of brass vessels stirring memories of an age-old craft.

The Markets You Can’t Miss

>Beypore Market:

Located near the ancient port of Beypore, this market breathes history and authenticity. Here, stacks of peppercorns and cardamom are traded just as they were centuries ago, keeping the tradition alive.

>Valliyangadi Market:

The oldest wholesale spice market in the city, Valliyangadi is a bustling hive of activity where wholesalers and retailers haggle passionately over the prized Malabar spices, preserving the essence of Kozhikode’s trade spirit.

>S.M. Street:

 Beyond its famed sweets, S.M. Street is a sensory paradise where small shops spill over with freshly ground masalas, aromatic herbs, and rare spices harvested from the hills and coasts around Kozhikode.

The Spices That Shape Kozhikode’s food culture

These spices aren’t just ingredients they’re the heart and soul of Kozhikode’s food. From the layered richness of Kozhikode biriyani to the fiery seafood curries that reflect the city’s coastal heritage, the spices here create an unforgettable flavor to the taste buds.

Tips for an Authentic Market Experience

>Engage all your senses:

Don’t just look—touch, smell, and listen. Many vendors are proud to share stories and let you sample their spices.

>Embrace bargaining:

A friendly haggle is part of the cultural experience—smile, negotiate, and enjoy the exchange.

>Taste local snacks:

Street vendors offer snacks infused with the same spices you see on display—perfect for a flavorful pitstop.

>Choose whole spices:

They preserve aroma and freshness much longer than powders, letting you bring Kozhikode’s essence home.

                The spice markets of Kozhikode are far more than commerce centers—they are living relics of a city that once stood at the crossroads of global trade.Every spice carries a tale of tradition, heritage, and the bonds that unite people. For travelers, food lovers, and history enthusiasts alike, exploring these markets is a sensory adventure that brings the vibrant past and flavorful present of Kozhikode to life.

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Kozhikode Dishes That Will Make You Fall in Love with Spice

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Can you guess a place in Kerala from a single clue? Here’s the hint: it’s known as the City of Spices. Most of you may guess it right, yes, it’s Kozhikode! A vibrant coastal city in Kerala, Kozhikode is celebrated for its rich historical roots, beaches, and mouthwatering dishes. If you’re a spice lover, Kozhikode is a paradise where every meal bursts with flavor and tradition. The city’s culinary heritage blends Arab, Portuguese, and native Kerala influences, resulting in some of the most mouthwatering and spicy dishes in South India. Ready to spice up your taste buds? Here are the top Kozhikode dishes that will make you fall in love with spice.

1. Kozhikode Biriyani

Unlike the typical biriyani, Kozhikode biriyani is a fragrant, spice-rich feast made with short-grain rice, succulent meat (usually chicken or mutton), and a blend of spices including the powders and the special characters like star anise, cloves, and cinnamon, they played the major role but always overlooked. What makes it special is the use of ghee and a unique masala paste, giving it a distinct aroma and a slightly sweet undertone that balances the heat perfectly.

2. Kallummakkaya Fry (Spicy Mussel Fry)

If you love seafood with a fiery twist, the spicy mussel fry from Kozhikode is a must-try. Fresh mussels are tossed with red chili powder, turmeric, black pepper, and curry leaves, then shallow fried to perfection. It’s a crunchy, spicy delight that pairs beautifully with rice or even as a standalone snack.

3. Pathiri with Chicken Curry

Pathiri is a thin, soft rice pancake that acts as the perfect base to scoop up rich, spicy chicken curry. The chicken curry in Kozhikode is known for its heavy use of black pepper, green chilies, and fresh coconut, delivering layers of heat and depth. Together, pathiri and chicken curry create an unbeatable combination.

4. Erachi Ularthiyathu (Spicy Beef Fry)

Beef lovers, look here!  Kozhikode’s spicy beef fry is a legendary dish where tender beef is slow-cooked with an intense blend of spices, including dried red chilies, black pepper, and star anise. The result is a dry, intensely flavorful fry that pairs well with appam or parotta.

5. Malabar Fish Curry

The taste will definitely remind you of the dish and awaken your taste buds whenever you’re hungry or craving something delicious. Made with freshly caught fish, coconut milk, tamarind, and a generous amount of green chilies and black pepper, Malabar fish curry is a spicy, tangy dish that reflects Kozhikode’s coastal flavors. This dish pairs perfectly with steamed rice or the flaky layers of traditional Kerala parotta.

6. Kaada Chicken

Kaada chicken is a rustic Kozhikode delicacy where free-range chicken is marinated with freshly ground spices and slow-cooked until tender. Bursting with fiery flavors and rich aromas, this dish captures the heart of Kozhikode’s passion for bold spices.

7. Chatti Pathiri

This layered meat pie is a Kozhikode specialty that combines thin rice flour pancakes with spicy minced meat filling. Baked to golden perfection, chatti pathiri is rich, spicy, and satisfying — a perfect dish for those looking to try something uniquely Kozhikode.

                 As you walk through the streets of Kozhikode, the spicy aroma in the air will guide you to one of the city’s many restaurants. So, be prepared before visiting it’s a good idea to create a list of must-try dishes to make the most of your culinary journey.

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Kozhikode and the Sulaimani

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How Kozhikode’s Tea Culture Compliments Its Spices

How does it feel, A sip of sulaimani after a spicy flavor rich Biriyani? It might be one of the most beautiful moments of bliss a person can experience. It’s the one thing that can shows the best connection between the spices and the sulaimani. This humble yet potent brew is not just a drink but a symbol of the city’s rich heritage, blending the age-old traditions of tea with the robust, aromatic spices that Kozhikode is famous for. It’s still a mystery how a cup of tea brings energy to a body completely tired from food.

The Sulaimani

The story of Sulaimani goes beyond just being a simple cup of tea. Unlike the common masala chai or the creamy milk teas often found across India, Sulaimani stands out as a black tea infused with a mix of spices, creating a flavorful drink that provides both refreshment for the body and calmness for the mind. The tea was traditionally consumed as a digestive aid after heavy meals, thanks to its combination of black tea and spices like cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and a dash of lime.

The Tea and Spice Connection

Kozhikode is often regarded as the “easy way to the Spice Coast,” and its legacy as a spice hub dates back centuries. The city has been a bustling trade center for various spices, especially cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and black pepper, which form the backbone of much of Kerala’s cuisine. These spices don’t just find their way into the kitchens of the region; they make their way into cups of Sulaimani as well.What makes Sulaimani so special is the mix between the spices and the tea. The slightly bitter taste of the black tea blends perfectly with the warm, aromatic spices, creating a complex yet balanced flavor profile.

A Social Ritual: The Kozhikode Way

Sulaimani is not just a drink in Kozhikode; it’s an experience, often shared among friends, family, or colleagues. It’s served in small, handle-less cups that emphasize the communal nature of drinking tea. Whether it’s a roadside tea stall or a chic café, you’ll find locals sipping on Sulaimani, chatting away about everything under the sun from politics to local gossip.The simple act of sipping on this aromatic tea with friends or loved ones is as important as the tea itself, reinforcing the strong sense of community in Kozhikode.

Sulaimani Beyond Kozhikode

Though Sulaimani originated in Kozhikode, its popularity has spread far beyond the city. Tourists and visitors to the region often seek out this iconic drink, either at a local tea shop or as part of their experience in the city’s spice markets. Its rise in popularity, however, has not taken away from its cultural roots. The traditional recipe remains a beloved staple of Kozhikode’s tea culture, reminding everyone of the city’s unique ability to blend its rich history with its modern identity.

Why You Should Try Sulaimani

If you ever find yourself in Kozhikode, sipping a cup of Sulaimani is an absolute must. It’s not just about the taste; it’s about experiencing a piece of the city’s culture, its rich spice heritage, and its social fabric. Whether you’re strolling through the bustling streets of the city, relaxing at a local café, or simply looking for a refreshing break, Sulaimani offers a little taste of Kozhikode in every sip.

                In a world where tea is often consumed as just a quick caffeine fix, Sulaimani stands as a reminder that a cup of tea can be much more—an experience, a connection, and a reflection of the place you’re in. So, next time you’re in Kozhikode, don’t just grab any tea—grab a Sulaimani, and let the spices of the city tell their story in every sip.

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Best Breakfast Spots in Kozhikode

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Best Breakfast Spots You Must Visit in Kozhikode.

Whether you visit Kozhikode in the morning, evening, or night, the feast is endless!! As you stroll through the city’s vibrant streets, the rich aromas of spices and the varieties of flavors  envelop your senses. The different variety of flavors from spicy biryanis to sweet halwas, offers an overwhelming array of choices that will delight and even bewilder your hungry appetite. Here we summarizing a short list of places where you can enjoy the best breakfast in Kozhikode.

Pillai’s Snacks

📍 Kallai Road, Kozhikode

A legendary establishment over 70 years old, Pillai’s Snacks is renowned for its traditional South Indian and Kerala breakfast items. Their spicy chutneys, especially the chili chutney, paired with hot dosa and tea, offer a delightful start to the day. The ambiance is simple, reflecting its long-standing tradition.

Kozhikoden Kitchen

📍 Near Hi-Lite Mall, Kozhikode

Located along the NH Bypass, this spot is perfect for a hearty, spicy breakfast. Try their Beef Liver Fry and Beef Varatiyath with Idiyappam for a flavorful experience. The dishes are rich in spices, offering a true taste of Kozhikode’s spicy traditions.

Edele Hotel

📍 Near Kuttichira Mishkal Mosque, Kozhikode Beach

that pairs perfectly with hot upma. The tender beef chunks soaked in flavorful spices, combined with the soft upma, create a satisfying meal. Don’t miss their flaky porotta and banana fritters to complete your breakfast.

Bombay Hotel

📍 Silk Street, Kozhikode

A favorite among locals and visitors alike, Bombay Hotel offers a variety of spicy breakfast options. Their Kaada Fry is particularly popular for its bold flavors. Pair it with their tea and other snacks for a fulfilling breakfast experience.

Zain’s Restaurant

📍 Kozhikode

Their Muttamala, a sweet and spicy dish, and Kaippola, a banana-based snack, are unique offerings that showcase the region’s food creativity. The restaurant’s ambiance adds to the overall dining experience.

Paragon Restaurant

📍 Kozhikode

The world famous restaurant Paragon. Famous for its spicy biryanis and seafood dishes, Paragon Restaurant is a non negotiable in Kozhikode’s food scene. Paragon Restaurant is always ready to welcome its customers with the best food. The restaurant operates daily from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM, making it a convenient choice for breakfast.

                 Don’t forget to boost your energy before discovering the Kozhikode city, have some good dishes in the the morning and start your day right!.

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Exploring Kozhikode’s Evening Food Culture

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Every time, Calicut city has a delicious story to tell to those who love to dive into the world of new food cultures. From sunrise to the next day’s sunrise, the city holds something special to make visitors happy and relaxed. And the best time to explore this city in this summer and every time is evening to night. This time brings the joy of spending quality moments with friends and family, and the tasty trail of food will follow you throughout. There are a lot of option to explore Kozhikode’s evening food culture;

1. Kilikood (Bird’s Nest)

Kilikood is a visually appealing and delicious snack made using vermicelli, chicken, egg, and spices. The outer layer of crispy roasted vermicelli gives it a nest-like appearance hence the name “Kilikood,” which means “bird’s nest” in Malayalam. Inside, you’ll find a flavorful filling of shredded chicken mixed with onions, pepper, and herbs. It’s a must-try for those who love unique and well-crafted Kozhikode’s evening or night snacks. 

2. Pathiri Nirachath

This traditional Malabar dish takes soft rice pancakes (pathiri) and fills them with a spicy meat or chicken masala. The filled pathiri is then sealed and pan-fried to perfection. Pathiri Nirachath offers a delightful blend of soft texture on the outside and rich, aromatic filling on the inside perfect for festive evenings or a late night fulfilling snack.

3. Bread Pocket

 Bread Pocket is a simple yet tasty treat. Slices of bread are flattened, filled with a spiced chicken or vegetable mixture, folded into a pocket shape, and deep-fried until crisp. They are often served with ketchup or chutney and make for a quick and satisfying snack with tea in the evenings or nights. 

4. Falafel

Falafel has become a favorite in Kozhikode’s food scene. These deep-fried balls made of ground chickpeas or fava beans are seasoned with herbs and spices, creating a crunchy and flavorful evening snack. Often served with hummus or tucked into pita bread with salad and garlic sauce, falafel offers a healthy, protein-rich option among the fried favorites.

5. Chatti Pathiri

A signature Malabar delicacy, Chatti Pathiri is a layered  (or sweet) dish. Thin pastry sheets are layered with spiced meat or chicken, eggs, and onions, then pan-cooked or baked. The result is a rich, soft, and flavorful snack that’s perfect for a evening snack or a night food cravings.

6. Chicken Potti Therichath

Chicken Potti Therichath is a spicy and flavorful Malabar-style dish where a thick chicken filling is prepared by slow-cooking shredded chicken with onions, curry leaves, green chilies, and a rich blend of spices.  It’s often used as a filling for snacks like cutlets, pockets, and stuffed breads, but is just as delicious when served on its own with a hot cup of tea in the evening.

                          Kozhikode’s nightlife is popular among both locals and visitors. To make the most of it, be sure to enjoy these foods for a truly satisfying experience. The evenings of Kozhikode is usually design with a lot of different flavored evening snacks. Its worth to try these dishes.

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