Ammini Kozhukattai (Rice Flour Dumplings) – A Traditional South Indian Delight
Ammini Kozhukattai, also known as rice flour dumplings, is a popular South Indian dish, especially during festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi. These little dumplings are soft, chewy, and seasoned with a flavorful tempering of mustard seeds, urad dal, curry leaves, and grated coconut. The dish is simple to make yet bursting with flavors, making it a perfect snack for any occasion.
Whether you’re looking for an easy snack or preparing for a festive feast, Ammini Kozhukattai is sure to delight your taste buds. This dish is vegetarian, light, and packed with traditional South Indian spices that enhance its taste.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rice flour | 1/2 cup |
| Water | 1 cup |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sunflower oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Mustard seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| White Urad Dal (split) | 1 teaspoon |
| Curry leaves | 1 sprig |
| Dry red chili (for garnish) | 1 |
| Asafoetida (hing) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Fresh coconut (grated, for garnish) | 2 teaspoons |
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 23 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 53 minutes
Servings:
- Serves: 4
Cuisine:
- Cuisine: South Indian
- Course: Snack
- Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Dough
- Prepare the Rice Flour Mixture:
- In a small bowl, mix 2 teaspoons of rice flour with water to form a smooth slurry.
- Bring 1 cup of water to a rolling boil in a pan.
- Add 1/4 teaspoon of salt and 1 tablespoon of sunflower oil to the boiling water.
- Cook the Rice Flour:
- Gradually add the rice flour slurry to the boiling water while stirring continuously.
- Let the mixture cook for a few minutes, stirring, until it thickens into a paste-like consistency.
- Once thickened, add the remaining rice flour and stir well. Allow it to cook for another 2 minutes.
Step 2: Shaping the Dumplings
-
Mixing the Dough:
- Insert a wooden ladle in the center of the mixture and vigorously stir to avoid lumps.
- Cover the pan and cook on low-medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring intermittently, until the rice dough comes together into a single lump.
-
Kneading:
- Switch off the heat and allow the dough to cool down slightly. When it’s just a bit warmer than room temperature, grease your hands with a little oil.
- Knead the dough gently to smooth it out.
- Shape the dough into a cylinder and pinch small portions to form round dumplings (about the size of a marble or slightly smaller).
Step 3: Steaming the Dumplings
- Prepare the Steamer:
- Meanwhile, set up a steamer with enough water to steam the dumplings.
- Once the water is boiling, carefully place the dumplings in the steamer basket.
- Steam the dumplings for 8-9 minutes, or until they become shiny and glossy. Make sure not to overcook them, as they may turn rubbery.
Step 4: Preparing the Tempering
-
Tempering the Dumplings:
- Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of sunflower oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add mustard seeds and wait for them to crackle.
- Add the urad dal and let it fry until it turns golden brown.
- Add the curry leaves, dry red chili, and a pinch of asafoetida (hing), then stir for a few seconds until fragrant.
- Sprinkle in the grated coconut and mix well.
-
Toss the Dumplings:
- Gently add the steamed Ammini Kozhukattai dumplings to the tempering mixture.
- Toss the dumplings gently to coat them in the flavorful tempering, ensuring they are well mixed and absorb the spices.
Tips for Perfect Ammini Kozhukattai:
- Consistency of the Dough: Ensure the rice flour mixture is smooth and free of lumps while cooking, as this will determine the texture of the dumplings.
- Steaming Time: Steam the dumplings just enough to make them glossy and soft. Overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture.
- Grated Coconut: Fresh coconut adds a delightful crunch and fragrance to the dish. If you can’t find fresh coconut, desiccated coconut works too, but fresh is always better for that authentic flavor.
- Tempering: The tempering (tadka) is what gives this dish its characteristic flavor. You can adjust the seasoning according to your taste, especially the level of spiciness from the dry red chili.
Serving Suggestions:
Ammini Kozhukattai is often served as a snack or as part of a festive meal, especially during Ganesh Chaturthi. You can enjoy these rice flour dumplings on their own or serve them with a tangy chutney on the side. They also pair wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: Approx. 150-180 kcal (depends on the amount of oil used)
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Protein: 2-3g
- Fat: 6-7g
- Fiber: 2-3g
- Sodium: Varies with salt content
Why You’ll Love Ammini Kozhukattai:
- Perfectly Balanced: The chewiness of the dumplings combined with the crunchy tempering of mustard seeds, curry leaves, and coconut creates a harmonious flavor profile.
- Festival Special: As a traditional dish, Ammini Kozhukattai is a celebration of South Indian cuisine, often served during religious and cultural festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi, bringing families together.
- Vegetarian Delight: A perfect vegetarian snack that’s not only healthy but also satisfies your cravings for something savory and satisfying.
Ammini Kozhukattai (Rice Flour Dumplings) is a simple yet delightful dish that highlights the essence of South Indian cuisine. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or enjoying a light snack, these dumplings will surely win your heart with their delicious flavors and aromatic spices. Happy cooking and enjoy!
