Ammini Kozhukattai (Rice Flour Dumplings) Recipe
Ammini Kozhukattai, a traditional South Indian delight, consists of small, bite-sized rice flour dumplings that are steamed and then tossed in a flavorful tempering. This dish is versatile and can be enjoyed as a savory or sweet treat, depending on your taste preferences. It is a light, healthy snack, making it a perfect option for those looking for a nutritious bite, with minimal oil in its preparation. Ammini Kozhukattai is especially popular during festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi, making it an ideal addition to your celebrations.
Whether you are preparing it for a family gathering or simply indulging in a tasty snack, Ammini Kozhukattai offers a wonderful balance of flavors and textures, with the softness of the dumplings contrasting beautifully against the aromatic tempering.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rice flour | 1/2 cup |
| Water | 1 cup |
| Salt | To taste |
| Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Mustard seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | 1 teaspoon |
| White Urad Dal (Split) | 1 teaspoon |
| Curry leaves | 1 sprig |
| Dry Red Chilli | 1 |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Fresh coconut (grated) | 2 teaspoons |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 23 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Instructions
-
Prepare the Rice Flour Dough:
Begin by mixing 2 teaspoons of rice flour in water thoroughly. Bring the water to a rolling boil over medium heat. Add 1/4 teaspoon of salt and 1 tablespoon of oil to the water. Once the water reaches a boil, let it cook for a few minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. -
Add the Remaining Rice Flour:
Gradually add the remaining rice flour into the boiling water. Allow it to cook for an additional 2 minutes. Then, insert a wooden ladle into the center of the mixture and mix vigorously to avoid any lumps from forming. This will ensure a smooth dough consistency. -
Cook the Dough:
Cover the pan and let the dough cook over low/medium heat for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. The dough should come together into a soft lump. Once the dough is firm but still pliable, turn off the heat and let it cool down slightly. -
Shape the Dumplings:
Once the dough has cooled to just above room temperature, grease your hands with oil and gently knead the dough to smooth it out. Roll the dough into a cylindrical shape and then pinch small portions of it to form tiny, round dumplings (mini Kozhukattai). -
Steam the Dumplings:
While preparing the dumplings, set up a steamer with enough water to steam the Kozhukattai. Place the dumplings into the steamer and steam them for about 8-9 minutes, or until they turn glossy. Be sure not to overcook them, as they may become rubbery in texture. -
Prepare the Tempering:
In a separate pan, heat the remaining oil and add the mustard seeds and urad dal. Wait for the mustard seeds to crackle, indicating they are ready. Then, add the curry leaves, dry red chili, asafoetida (hing), and the grated fresh coconut. Stir well to mix all the ingredients together, allowing them to release their fragrant flavors. -
Toss the Dumplings:
Once the tempering is ready, gently add the steamed Ammini Kozhukattai dumplings into the pan. Toss them well so that they are evenly coated with the tempering mixture. Allow the flavors to combine for a few more minutes, ensuring each dumpling is covered with the aromatic seasoning. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Ammini Kozhukattai is now ready to serve! Enjoy these delicious rice flour dumplings as a light snack or as part of a festive meal, particularly during celebrations like Ganesh Chaturthi.
Allergen Information
- Gluten-Free: Ammini Kozhukattai is a gluten-free dish, as it is made using rice flour, which is a naturally gluten-free alternative.
- Vegan: The recipe contains no animal-based ingredients, making it suitable for those following a vegan lifestyle.
- Nuts: The recipe includes fresh coconut, which should be noted for those with nut allergies.
- Dairy-Free: This recipe is free from dairy ingredients, making it a good choice for individuals avoiding dairy.
Dietary Preferences
- Vegetarian: This dish is entirely plant-based, making it a suitable option for vegetarians and those avoiding meat.
- Low Oil: The recipe uses only a modest amount of oil, contributing to a healthier, lighter dish that can be enjoyed as a guilt-free snack.
Tips for the Best Ammini Kozhukattai
- Perfect Dumplings: Ensure the rice flour is mixed thoroughly in water before boiling to avoid lumps. Stirring vigorously when adding the remaining flour will help achieve a smooth dough.
- Steaming: Be careful not to overcook the dumplings as they could turn hard and rubbery. Steaming for 8-9 minutes is enough to ensure they are soft and glossy.
- Tempering Variations: You can adjust the tempering ingredients based on your taste preferences. Add a bit of jaggery or sugar for a sweeter version of this dish, or increase the number of dry red chilies for a spicier touch.
- Serve Fresh: These dumplings taste best when served fresh, but they can also be stored for a day or two in an airtight container.
Conclusion
Ammini Kozhukattai is a delightful South Indian snack that combines simplicity with flavor. The soft, steamed rice flour dumplings are infused with a vibrant tempering, making them a perfect snack for any occasion. This dish is incredibly versatile, allowing for adjustments in spice levels or sweetness to cater to all tastes. With its minimal oil content, it is a healthy and light option that fits well within a variety of dietary preferences. Whether enjoyed during Ganesh Chaturthi or as an everyday snack, Ammini Kozhukattai is sure to impress with its unique flavors and satisfying textures.
