Chakkra Pongali Recipe (Andhra Style Sweet Pongal)
Chakkra Pongali, a beloved sweet dish from Andhra Pradesh, is a delightful combination of rice and yellow moong dal, sweetened with sugar and enriched with the aroma of cardamom and ghee. This comforting dessert is perfect for celebrations or simply to indulge in the rich flavors of South Indian cuisine. Let’s delve into the heart of this traditional recipe that promises to fill your home with warmth and sweetness.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rice | 1/2 cup |
| Yellow Moong Dal (Split) | 1/3 cup |
| Sugar (or Rock Candy Sugar) | 1/2 cup |
| Milk | 1-1/2 cups |
| Water | 1-1/2 cups |
| Desiccated Coconut | 4 tablespoons |
| Cardamom Powder (Elaichi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Ghee | 4 tablespoons |
| Mixed Dry Fruits (as per preference) | As desired |
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 8 g |
| Carbohydrates | 60 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 15 g |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings
- Servings: 2
Cuisine and Course
- Cuisine: Andhra
- Course: Dessert
- Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
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Roasting the Base Ingredients: Start by heating the ghee in a pan over medium heat. Add the rice and yellow moong dal, frying them together until they become aromatic and take on a slightly brown hue. This step infuses the dish with rich flavors.
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Pressure Cooking: Transfer the fried mixture to a pressure cooker. Pour in the milk and water, then close the lid. Cook for about 3 whistles, allowing the ingredients to meld together into a creamy base.
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Preparing the Garnishes: While the rice and dal are cooking, take another pan (kadai) and heat a little ghee. Add the mixed dry fruits and sauté until they are lightly toasted, then set them aside. In the same pan, fry the desiccated coconut in ghee for about 4-5 minutes until it turns golden and fragrant.
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Creating the Sweet Mixture: Once the rice mixture has cooled slightly, place it back on the stovetop over medium heat. Add in the sugar and cardamom powder, stirring continuously. If desired, you can also add a clove and a small amount of crushed edible camphor to enhance the flavor profile.
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Thickening the Pongali: As you stir, the sugar will melt, and the pongali will start thickening. This should take around 8-10 minutes. Continue to monitor the consistency until it reaches a creamy texture.
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Final Touches: Once the pongali has thickened to your liking, turn off the heat. Gently fold in the toasted dry fruits and the fried coconut, mixing well to ensure even distribution.
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Serving: Serve the Chakkra Pongali warm as a delightful dessert. It pairs wonderfully with a traditional meal featuring steamed rice, Pappu Charu (Lentil Soup Style Curry), Nalla Karam Podi, Beetroot Vepudu, and Elai Vadam for a truly authentic Andhra dining experience.
Conclusion
Chakkra Pongali is more than just a dessert; it is a celebration of flavors and traditions that encapsulates the essence of Andhra cuisine. Whether you’re preparing it for a festive occasion or a simple family gathering, this sweet treat is sure to bring smiles and satisfaction to everyone at the table. Enjoy your cooking and the sweet moments that follow!
