Introduction: A Festival of Flavors
Onam, Kerala’s grand harvest festival, is not just about vibrant pookalams and cultural traditions—it’s also about the sumptuous Onam Sadya. While the banana leaf feast features countless savory dishes, it is the traditional sweets that complete the celebration. If you’re planning your Onam 2025 menu, here are five timeless desserts you should not miss.
1. Palada Payasam
A star of every Sadya, Palada Payasam is a creamy rice-based dessert made with ada (rice flakes), milk, and sugar. Slow-cooked to perfection, its rich flavor and silky texture make it a crowd favorite. Served warm or chilled, it’s the ultimate comfort food for festive gatherings.
2. Parippu Payasam
Known as the king of Onam desserts, Parippu Payasam is made with moong dal, jaggery, and coconut milk. The nutty flavor of roasted dal, combined with the sweetness of jaggery, creates a wholesome treat. Often garnished with cashews and raisins fried in ghee, it symbolizes Kerala’s authentic culinary heritage.
3. Unniyappam
These bite-sized delights resemble mini pancakes made with rice flour, jaggery, banana, and coconut. Deep-fried in ghee, Unniyappam offers a chewy texture and caramelized sweetness. It’s not just a festive sweet but also a nostalgic snack loved by generations.
4. Ada Pradhaman
Often considered the queen of payasams, Ada Pradhaman is a must-have during Onam. Made with ada, jaggery, and coconut milk, it has a darker, richer flavor compared to Palada Payasam. Topped with ghee-fried nuts, it’s a dessert that embodies the festive spirit.
5. Neyyappam
This golden-brown sweet is prepared with rice flour, jaggery, ghee, and cardamom. Traditionally offered in temples, Neyyappam is soft inside and slightly crisp outside, making it both a spiritual and festive favorite. Its aroma alone is enough to bring the festive vibes alive.
No Onam Sadya feels complete without the symphony of sweets that follow the savory dishes. From the rich Ada Pradhaman to the comforting Palada Payasam, these traditional delicacies make Onam truly unforgettable. As you prepare for Onam 2025, be sure to include these five classics on your banana leaf and celebrate the festival with sweetness, joy, and tradition.