Malanad Kara Kadubu Recipe: Spiced Steamed Rice Dumplings with Coconut

Kara Kadubu Recipe (Malanad Style Steamed Spiced Rice Dumplings)

Cuisine: Karnataka | Course: South Indian Breakfast | Diet: Vegetarian
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Kara Kadubu is a traditional South Indian dish, particularly loved in the Malnad region of Karnataka. This recipe features soft, spiced rice dumplings steamed to perfection, offering a delightful combination of textures and flavors. These rice dumplings are made from rice rava (idli rava), seasoned with aromatic spices like cumin seeds and complemented by fresh grated coconut. Perfect for breakfast, they are traditionally served with a variety of chutneys, including Coconut Chutney or Huchellu Chutney.

Ingredients

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Rice Mixture:
   Begin by placing a deep pot on the stove and adding 2 cups of water. Bring the water to a rolling boil. Once the water starts boiling, add a teaspoon of sunflower oil and a pinch of salt. Stir to combine.

2. Add the Rice Rava:
   Gradually and continuously pour the rice rava (or idli rava) into the boiling water while stirring continuously. This ensures that no lumps form and the mixture becomes smooth.

3. Cook the Mixture:
   Once all the rava has been added, lower the heat and cover the pot with a lid. Allow the mixture to cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the pot. After 5 minutes, switch off the heat, remove the pot from the stove, and give the mixture another good stir.

4. Cool the Mixture:
   Transfer the cooked rava mixture to a wide plate or flat surface to cool down. Allow it to cool until it is comfortable to handle.

5. Add Spices and Coconut:
   Once the mixture has cooled sufficiently, add the cumin seeds (jeera), grated coconut, butter, and additional salt (if needed). Mix everything well. Then, knead the mixture with your fingers to combine all ingredients and form a smooth dough-like consistency.

6. Shape the Dumplings:
   Pinch off small portions of the mixture (about the size of a lemon) and roll them into balls between your palms. Repeat until all the mixture is used up.

7. Steam the Kadubu:
   Set up a steamer or idli stand in a pressure cooker. Arrange the rolled balls (dumplings) on the steamer tray, leaving enough space between them to allow steam circulation. Cover the pressure cooker with its lid, but do not place the weight on top. Steam the kadubus for about 10 minutes.

8. Serve:
   Once the kara kadubu is steamed, remove them carefully from the steamer. Serve them hot, accompanied by Coconut Chutney or Huchellu Chutney for a delicious and authentic South Indian breakfast experience.

Tips for a Perfect Kara Kadubu:

• Consistency of the Rava: When adding the rice rava to the boiling water, ensure you stir continuously to avoid clumps. The final mixture should be smooth and free of lumps.
• Adjusting Texture: If the mixture feels too dry after cooking, you can add a little extra water to achieve the right consistency before shaping the dumplings.
• Chutney Pairing: Kara Kadubu pairs beautifully with a variety of chutneys. The rich flavor of coconut chutney or the tangy Huchellu chutney (made from roasted sesame seeds) enhances the subtle spiciness of the kadubu.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Kara Kadubu is an easy-to-make, wholesome breakfast or snack option that is full of flavor. It is not only light on the stomach but also packed with the goodness of coconut and cumin, offering a delightful balance of savory flavors. Whether you’re familiar with South Indian cuisine or new to it, these steamed rice dumplings will soon become a favorite in your breakfast repertoire. The dish is also perfect for vegetarians and those seeking a gluten-free option.

Enjoy the taste of Karnataka with this Malnad-style steamed spiced rice dumplings recipe!