Chettinad Kavuni Arisi Sweet Recipe (Black Rice Pudding)
Introduction
Chettinad Kavuni Arisi Sweet is a traditional and indulgent dessert hailing from the Chettinad region in Tamil Nadu. Known for its distinct dark color and rich flavors, this pudding features Kavuni Arisi, also referred to as black rice, a highly nutritious variety. Black rice is prized for its high iron content, antioxidants, and vitamin E, making this dish not only delicious but also healthy. The rice, which is naturally dark and hard, transforms into a soft and chewy texture when cooked, adding a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the pudding. Kavuni Arisi Sweet is commonly served as a comforting treat after meals and is perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Black Rice (Kavuni Arisi) | 1 cup |
| Water | 3 cups |
| Palm Sugar or Jaggery | 1/2 cup |
| Cardamom Powder (Elaichi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Fresh Coconut (grated) | 1/2 cup |
| Ghee | 1 teaspoon |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Allergen Information
This recipe contains coconut and ghee, which may not be suitable for individuals with allergies to nuts or dairy. Please ensure that you check the ingredient list carefully before preparing the dish for anyone with food sensitivities.
Dietary Preferences
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Vegan Option: Can be made vegan by substituting ghee with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative.
- Gluten-Free: Yes
- Dairy-Free: Can be made dairy-free by using a non-dairy substitute for ghee.
Instructions
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Soak the Rice: Begin by thoroughly washing the black rice under running water. After washing, soak the rice in a bowl with plenty of water for about 8 hours or overnight. This is essential as the rice grains are quite hard and need time to soften.
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Cook the Rice: Once the rice is soaked, drain off the water. Transfer the rice to a pressure cooker and add 3 cups of fresh water. You can also use the drained water for cooking to retain some of the nutrients. Close the pressure cooker lid and cook the rice for 5-6 whistles, allowing the rice to cook thoroughly and soften.
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Add Sweeteners and Flavorings: After the pressure has released, open the cooker lid and check the rice. Add palm sugar (or jaggery) and cardamom powder to the rice. Mix well, ensuring that the sweetener dissolves completely. Continue cooking the mixture on medium heat, stirring occasionally, and mash gently with a ladle to help incorporate the sweetness.
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Add Grated Coconut: Stir in the freshly grated coconut to the rice pudding. The coconut adds a delightful texture and richness to the dish, complementing the natural chewiness of the black rice. Mix well and let it cook for another 5-10 minutes, until it thickens to your desired consistency.
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Finish with Ghee: Once the pudding has thickened, remove it from the heat. Add a teaspoon of ghee and stir it in for a rich, buttery finish. This step enhances the flavor and texture of the Kavuni Arisi Sweet.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Chettinad Kavuni Arisi Sweet warm as a delightful dessert. It pairs wonderfully with a simple South Indian meal such as Vegetable Sambar, Steamed Rice, and Elai Vadam. Its unique taste and nutritional benefits make it a wholesome and satisfying treat for any occasion.
Tips and Variations
- For a Vegan Version: Use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative instead of ghee. You can also opt for maple syrup or coconut sugar as a sweetener for a more refined, plant-based version of this dish.
- Textural Variation: Some may prefer a more pudding-like consistency, while others enjoy the chewy texture of the rice. Adjust the amount of water during cooking to get your desired texture.
- Serving Suggestions: Kavuni Arisi Sweet can be served as a dessert after a light meal or as a part of a festive spread. For a more indulgent touch, garnish with additional grated coconut or a drizzle of ghee.
Conclusion
Chettinad Kavuni Arisi Sweet is a deliciously unique dessert that brings together the natural goodness of black rice and the aromatic flavors of cardamom, coconut, and ghee. Whether enjoyed as a post-meal treat or as a special dessert on a celebratory occasion, this pudding embodies the rich culinary tradition of Chettinad and Tamil Nadu. Easy to prepare yet deeply flavorful, Kavuni Arisi Sweet is a dessert that will surely become a favorite for those who appreciate healthy, indulgent treats with a cultural twist.
