No Onam Sadya feels complete without a delicious serving of payasam. This traditional Kerala dessert is one of the most anticipated dishes of the festive feast, combining ingredients such as rice, lentils, milk, coconut milk, jaggery, sugar, cardamom and nuts.
Payasam comes in many varieties, and every family may have its own favourite recipe. Some versions are creamy and milk-based, while others have a rich caramel-like sweetness from jaggery and coconut milk. Whether you prefer a classic recipe or want to experiment with a modern variation, these 10 delicious payasam recipes for Onam 2026 can make your celebration extra special.
1. Ada Pradhaman
Ada Pradhaman is one of Kerala's most iconic festive desserts. Made with rice ada, jaggery and coconut milk, this traditional payasam has a deep, rich flavour.
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The rice ada is cooked until soft and then combined with melted jaggery. Coconut milk is added gradually, followed by cardamom for fragrance. Roasted coconut pieces and cashews can be used as a garnish.
Its combination of chewy ada, creamy coconut milk and caramel-like jaggery makes it a perfect choice for an elaborate Onam Sadya.
2. Palada Payasam
Palada Payasam is another popular Kerala favourite. Unlike Ada Pradhaman, it is generally prepared using rice ada, milk and sugar.
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The ada is cooked until tender and then simmered in milk with sugar. Slow cooking allows the flavours to develop and gives the dessert a creamy consistency.
A touch of cardamom can add extra fragrance. This simple yet luxurious payasam is especially popular at celebrations and temple feasts.
3. Parippu Payasam
For those who enjoy jaggery-based desserts, Parippu Payasam is an excellent option. This traditional recipe uses moong dal, jaggery and coconut milk.
The dal is cooked until soft and combined with melted jaggery. Coconut milk is then added to create a smooth, aromatic dessert. Cardamom, dry ginger and roasted coconut pieces can provide additional flavour.
Its earthy taste makes Parippu Payasam a wonderful complement to the savoury dishes of an Onam Sadya.
4. Rice Payasam
Rice Payasam is a comforting classic made with rice, milk and sugar. It is easy to prepare and can be adapted according to your preferred sweetness and consistency.
Rice is slowly cooked in milk until it becomes soft and creamy. Sugar is then added, followed by cardamom. Cashews and raisins fried in ghee can be sprinkled on top before serving.
This recipe is ideal for families looking for a straightforward dessert that children and adults can enjoy.
5. Semiya Payasam
Semiya Payasam, or vermicelli payasam, is a quick and popular dessert across Indian households. It is particularly useful when you want to prepare a festive sweet without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Vermicelli is lightly roasted in ghee before being cooked with milk and sugar. Cardamom, cashews and raisins add texture and aroma.
Although it is not exclusive to Kerala, Semiya Payasam has become a popular addition to many festive meals and can easily find a place on an Onam menu.
6. Gothambu Payasam
Gothambu Payasam, made with broken wheat, is a wholesome traditional-style dessert. Broken wheat is cooked until tender and combined with jaggery and coconut milk.
The combination creates a rich and satisfying dessert with a distinctive texture. Cardamom and roasted coconut pieces can enhance its flavour.
This is a great choice for those who want something slightly different from conventional rice-based payasam.
7. Chakka Payasam
Kerala's love for jackfruit makes Chakka Payasam a naturally delicious festive option. Ripe jackfruit pulp is cooked with jaggery and coconut milk to create a sweet and aromatic dessert.
The fruity flavour of jackfruit gives this payasam a unique character. Coconut milk and cardamom complement the fruit beautifully.
If you enjoy traditional Kerala flavours, Chakka Payasam can be an excellent addition to your Onam celebration.
8. Pazham Payasam
Pazham Payasam uses ripe bananas to create a naturally sweet and fragrant dessert. The bananas are cooked and combined with jaggery and coconut milk, with cardamom often added for aroma.
The recipe is particularly appealing to those who enjoy the combination of fruit and traditional Kerala ingredients. Roasted coconut pieces or nuts can be added for texture.
Its rich banana flavour makes it a memorable alternative to more familiar payasam varieties.
9. Carrot Payasam
For a modern twist on the traditional festive dessert, try Carrot Payasam. Grated carrots are cooked with milk, sugar and cardamom to create a colourful and creamy sweet.
The carrots lend a gentle natural sweetness and attractive appearance. Cashews, almonds or raisins can be added as toppings.
While traditionalists may prefer classic Kerala varieties, carrot payasam is an easy way to introduce a contemporary dessert to an Onam gathering.
10. Mango Payasam
Mango Payasam is a delightful choice when you want a fruity variation. Ripe mango pulp can be combined with coconut milk or milk, depending on the recipe, and sweetened as needed.
Cardamom provides warmth, while chopped nuts can add crunch. The bright mango flavour makes this dessert particularly appealing for family celebrations.
For the best taste, choose ripe, naturally sweet mangoes and adjust the amount of jaggery or sugar accordingly.
Tips for Making Perfect Payasam
The secret to delicious payasam is patience. Milk- and coconut milk-based versions should generally be cooked carefully to prevent scorching. When using jaggery, melt and strain it if necessary to remove impurities before adding it to the dessert.
Cardamom should be added in moderation so that its fragrance enhances rather than overwhelms the other ingredients. Roasted cashews, raisins and coconut pieces can provide a pleasant contrast to the creamy texture.
Payasam can be served warm or chilled depending on the recipe and personal preference. During an Onam Sadya, it is traditionally enjoyed toward the end of the meal.
From the rich Ada Pradhaman and creamy Palada Payasam to comforting Rice Payasam and fruity Chakka and Mango Payasam, there are plenty of delicious options for your Onam 2026 celebration.
Each recipe brings its own combination of flavours, textures and traditions to the festive table. Whether you are preparing a large Sadya for relatives or a simple Onam meal at home, a bowl of homemade payasam can provide the perfect sweet ending to the celebration.
This Onam, choose your favourite variety or prepare several and let everyone enjoy a taste of Kerala's rich dessert tradition.
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