A Gourmet Getaway: Savoring Wayanad’s Culinary Delights at AfterTheRains

There’s something special about food enjoyed in the heart of nature. Surrounded by the pristine landscapes of Wayanad, where the air is scented with the freshness of rain-soaked earth and the calls of birds echo through the hills, every meal becomes an experience to savor. At AfterTheRains, a Rainforest Lodge, dining isn’t just about eating—it’s about immersing oneself in the flavors of Kerala, enhanced by the ambiance of a rainforest retreat.

A Taste of Tradition

Wayanad’s rich heritage and fertile lands have created a varied and flavorful cuisine. The region’s culinary palette is defined by fresh, local ingredients and traditional recipes handed down through generations. At the Rainforest Lodge, the chefs have mastered combining these time-honored flavors with a modern touch, creating dishes that delight and surprise.

Every morning at AfterTheRains begins with the aroma of spices and freshly brewed coffee. Guests are greeted with a breakfast spread that features everything from soft, fluffy appams paired with coconut milk-based stews to spicy egg curries and crispy dosas served with tangy chutneys. There’s an unhurried rhythm to breakfast here as guests take their time sipping on filter coffee while watching the forest come alive with the rising sun.

The Magic of Local Ingredients

The lodge’s commitment to local ingredients sets the dining experience at AfterTheRains apart. Vegetables plucked from the resort’s farms, fresh fish from the local rivers, and spices that are a hallmark of Kerala’s cuisine—each dish is a testament to the bounty of Wayanad. The lodge takes pride in sourcing these ingredients ethically, supporting local farmers and fishermen, which adds a sense of community and sustainability to every bite.

You can have a traditional Kerala thali for lunch, a feast that showcases many flavors on a single platter. Each element tells a story, from the tangy rasam and the aromatic sambar to the soft rice and crispy papadums. Side dishes like avial—a medley of vegetables cooked with coconut and curry leaves—and thoran, a stir-fried dish with grated coconut and mustard seeds, bring vibrant colors and textures to the table. The meal concludes with a serving of payasam, a creamy dessert made with jaggery and coconut milk, adding a sweet note to a fulfilling meal.

Evening Delights and Culinary Surprises

As the sun dips behind the dense canopy and the rainforest is bathed in the soft glow of twilight, dinner at AfterTheRains transforms into a magical experience. Under a sky sprinkled with stars, tables are set with lanterns, and the gentle rustle of leaves accompanies the meal. This is when the lodge’s chefs bring out their most creative dishes, merging the essence of Wayanad with innovative twists.

A popular favorite is the Meen Pollichathu, where fish marinated in a blend of spices is wrapped in banana leaves and steamed to perfection. The process infuses the fish with the earthy aroma of the leaf, creating a fragrant and flavorful dish. For vegetarians, options like pachadi, a refreshing yogurt-based side dish made with pineapples or seasonal vegetables, offer a tangy sweetness.

The lodge’s special dinner events often include live cooking demonstrations. Guests can gather around and watch the chefs expertly grill meats or prepare fresh appams on an open flame, adding a touch of showmanship. These interactive experiences foster a sense of community as stories and recipes are exchanged, making the meal not just a feast for the palate but for the soul.

Sipping the Flavors of Kerala

Every culinary journey is complete with a taste of Kerala’s traditional beverages. At AfterTheRains, sipping on a glass of spiced buttermilk or a warm, soothing herbal tea infused with tulsi and cardamom is a must. For those who wish to venture into more robust flavors, toddy, a locally tapped palm drink, offers a unique experience. This mildly fermented beverage has been enjoyed in Kerala for centuries and carries tales of tradition and local craftsmanship.

So, suppose you’re seeking not just an escape into nature but a journey through the flavors of Kerala. In that case, AfterTheRains is the gourmet getaway where adventure and dining meet in perfect harmony.