1. Vegetable Puttu
Puttu is a traditional Kerala breakfast dish made with rice flour and grated coconut. For a lunch box twist, pack it with a side of banana slices or jaggery. This nutritious dish is easy to prepare and can be enjoyed cold or warm.
2. Kerala Style Vegetable Upma
Upma is a savory dish made from semolina and a variety of vegetables. It’s light, filling, and can be made colorful with carrots, peas, and bell peppers. Serve it with a side of coconut chutney for added flavor.
3. Parotta with Vegetable Kurma
Parotta is a flaky, layered flatbread that pairs perfectly with vegetable kurma, a spicy coconut-based curry. Cut the parotta into bite-sized pieces for easy eating, and include a small container of kurma for dipping.
4. Fish Cutlets
Fish cutlets are a delightful snack made with spiced, mashed fish and potatoes, coated in breadcrumbs and fried. These can be made ahead of time and are perfect for lunch boxes. Pair them with a small serving of ketchup or green chutney.
5. Chappathi with Egg Curry
Soft chappathis filled with a flavorful egg curry make a great lunch box item. You can prepare the egg curry with a blend of spices and tomatoes, ensuring it’s tasty and healthy. Wrap chappathis around the curry or pack them separately.
6. Vegetable Dosa Rolls
Dosa, a fermented crepe made from rice and lentils, can be filled with a variety of vegetables. Roll them up and slice them into bite-sized pieces, making them easy for kids to handle. Serve with a side of sambar or chutney.
7. Tomato Rice
Tomato rice is a one-pot meal made with rice, tomatoes, and spices. It’s flavorful and can be made in advance. Add some fresh coriander on top for a fragrant touch and pack it with a small container of raita for a refreshing side.
8. Kappa and Fish Curry
Kappa, or tapioca, is a beloved dish in Kerala. Pair it with a spicy fish curry for a filling and nutritious lunch. Cut the kappa into small cubes for easy eating, and ensure the curry is packed securely to avoid spills.
9. Vegetable Fried Rice
Fried rice made with leftover rice and mixed vegetables is a quick and easy lunch box option. Add some soy sauce and scrambled eggs for extra protein. This dish is colorful and appeals to kids’ tastes.
10. Palak Paratha
Palak paratha is a stuffed flatbread made with spinach. It’s not only healthy but also visually appealing. Serve with a side of yogurt or pickle to enhance the flavor and make it more enjoyable.
11. Sweet Appam
Sweet appam, made with rice flour, jaggery, and coconut, makes a nutritious and tasty dessert option in a lunch box. These can be made in a mini version for kids, making them easy to eat and fun.
12. Vegetable Sambar with Idli
Idli, soft steamed rice cakes, are a staple in Kerala. Pair them with sambar, a lentil-based vegetable stew, for a wholesome lunch. Kids can easily dip the idlis into the sambar for a delicious bite.
13. Chicken Biryani
Chicken biryani is a flavorful rice dish that combines marinated chicken, spices, and saffron rice. It’s a hearty meal that keeps well in lunch boxes. Include a side of cucumber raita for a cooling effect.
14. Coconut Rice
Coconut rice is a simple yet delicious dish made with cooked rice, grated coconut, and mild spices. It’s fragrant and can be enjoyed with a side of pickles or papad for added texture.
15. Oats Upma
For a healthier twist, prepare upma using oats instead of semolina. This dish is rich in fiber and can be loaded with a variety of vegetables. It’s filling and quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy mornings.
16. Moong Dal Chilla
Moong dal chilla is a savory pancake made from split yellow lentils. You can add grated vegetables to the batter for extra nutrition. These can be served with a side of chutney and are great for lunch boxes.
17. Aloo Gobi with Roti
Aloo gobi, a dish made with potatoes and cauliflower, is beloved by kids. Serve it with soft roti for a satisfying meal. Cut the roti into smaller pieces for easier handling and eating.
18. Semiya Payasam
For a sweet treat, pack semiya payasam, a creamy dessert made with vermicelli, milk, and sugar. This can be a delightful surprise in the lunch box, providing a sweet end to the meal.
19. Lentil Salad
A lentil salad made with boiled lentils, chopped vegetables, and a tangy dressing is a nutritious choice. It’s protein-packed and can be served cold, making it a great option for lunch.
20. Kothu Parotta
Kothu parotta is a popular street food made with shredded parotta, mixed with vegetables and spices. This dish can be made mild or spicy, depending on your kid’s preference, and is fun to eat.
These 20 tasty kids lunch box ideas from Kerala are not only nutritious but also packed with flavors that your children will love. By incorporating a mix of traditional dishes and creative twists, you can ensure that lunchtime is always exciting and fulfilling!
When preparing lunch boxes, it’s essential to keep in mind the balance of nutrition and taste. Kerala’s cuisine offers a variety of options that can cater to different tastes and preferences. Here are some additional lunch box ideas inspired by Kerala’s rich culinary heritage.
21. Vegetable Pulao
Vegetable pulao is a fragrant rice dish cooked with assorted vegetables and spices. It is colorful and packed with nutrients. Serve it with a side of yogurt for a refreshing contrast.
22. Fish Curry with Rice
Kerala’s famous fish curry can be a delightful addition to your child’s lunch box. Pair it with steamed rice and a slice of lemon. Make sure to choose boneless fish for easy consumption.
23. Beetroot Cutlets
Beetroot cutlets are not only delicious but also visually appealing. These crispy fritters can be made with mashed beetroot, spices, and breadcrumbs. Serve with ketchup or chutney for dipping.
24. Egg Curry with Appam
Egg curry served with appam (fermented rice pancakes) is a classic Kerala dish. The appam’s soft texture pairs well with the spicy egg curry, making it a delightful lunch option.
25. Chana Sundal
Chana sundal, made from boiled chickpeas tossed with coconut and spices, is a nutritious snack. This dish is high in protein and can be easily packed in a lunch box.
26. Spinach and Cheese Sandwich
A spinach and cheese sandwich is a great way to sneak in some greens. Use whole grain bread and grill the sandwich for a crispy texture. Cut it into small triangles for easy handling.
27. Mixed Vegetable Dosa
Prepare dosas filled with a mix of vegetables for a delicious and crispy lunch option. Pair them with coconut chutney or tomato chutney for added flavor.
28. Kappa with Fish Curry
Kappa, or boiled tapioca, served with spicy fish curry is a traditional meal from Kerala. It is filling and can be a fun alternative to regular rice dishes.
29. Rawa Kesari
Rawa kesari, a semolina-based sweet dish, can be a delightful treat in the lunch box. Its vibrant color and sweet flavor make it a hit among kids.
30. Vegetable Pakoras
Vegetable pakoras are a great snack option. Made from a mix of vegetables coated in chickpea flour and deep-fried, they are crispy and delicious. Serve with sauce for dipping.
31. Paneer Tikka Wrap
For a twist on traditional wraps, use paneer tikka as the filling. Add some lettuce and a tangy sauce, then roll it up in a tortilla for a portable lunch option.
32. Tomato Rice
Tomato rice is a flavorful dish that combines cooked rice with tomatoes, spices, and herbs. It’s easy to prepare and can be enjoyed cold or warm.
33. Methi Thepla
Methi thepla, made from fenugreek leaves and whole wheat flour, is a nutritious flatbread. Pair it with yogurt or pickle for a tasty lunch box item.
34. Cabbage Thoran
Cabbage thoran is a dry vegetable preparation with grated coconut and spices. It is light yet flavorful, making it a good side dish for rice or chapati.
35. Fruit Chaat
A colorful fruit chaat made with seasonal fruits, lemon juice, and spices can serve as a refreshing snack. It’s healthy and easy for kids to eat.
36. Prawn Fried Rice
Prawn fried rice is a delicious seafood option that can be made with leftover rice. Toss in some vegetables and scrambled eggs for a complete meal.
37. Kadai Paneer with Naan
Kadai paneer, a spicy dish made with paneer and bell peppers, pairs wonderfully with naan. Cut the naan into smaller pieces for easy handling.
38. Dahi Bhalla
Dahi bhalla, made with lentil dumplings soaked in yogurt and topped with chutneys, can be a fun and tasty lunch box treat that kids will love.
39. Vegetable Biryani
Vegetable biryani is a fragrant rice dish loaded with vegetables and spices. It can be served with raita for a complete meal that is sure to satisfy.
40. Chocolate Pudding
For a sweet ending to the lunch, pack individual servings of chocolate pudding. It’s creamy, delicious, and a delightful surprise for kids.
Conclusion
Exploring the diverse flavors of Kerala through these 20 tasty lunch box ideas can make mealtime exciting for kids. With a blend of nutrition and deliciousness, these recipes not only cater to children’s tastes but also introduce them to the rich culinary heritage of the region.
Incorporating these lunch box ideas into your routine can help ensure that your children enjoy wholesome meals while also developing an appreciation for different cuisines. Happy cooking!