Kozhikode is known for its vibrant beaches, unique culture, and delicious cuisine. The local halwa that melts in mouth is not just popular in Kerala, but has grabbed fame even in Arabia, Persia, and London as well. Expatriates often carry packets of halwa in myriad flavours when they return after holidays.
The authentic Kozhikodan halwa is nothing like the north Indian preparation of halwa. Bakeries in Kozhikode are vying to create the most unique flavours in halwa. You can get variants like chilli, passion fruit, chocolate and many more. Food historians say that history of the Kozhikodan halwa can be traced back to centuries ago.
The palace of the erstwhile Zamorins was at the exact spot where the Kottaparambu Hospital stands now.
Zamorin invited chefs from Gujarat to prepare unique halwa for a royal feast. They were also granted lands beside the royal kitchen. This area later got developed into the iconic Mittayitheruvu or the 'SM (sweet meat) Street after the lines of halwa shops here.
The Arabs who reached the markets of Kozhikode for trade returned with boxes full of delicious halwa. Halwa was loaded into uru boats from Beypore and exported to Gulf countries. The British and Portuguese, too, were impressed by the impeccably delicious halwa.
