Assamese Style Mohura Pitha – Sweet Rice Dumplings Recipe
Delightful Steamed Rice Dumplings Filled with a Sweet Coconut-Peanut Mixture
Rice dumplings, known as Pithas, are a cherished tradition in the eastern states of India, especially during festive seasons. These treats are typically steamed, ensuring that they are both light and flavorful. In Assamese cuisine, Mohura Pitha is a popular variety of Pitha that incorporates a delicious stuffing made of fresh coconut, jaggery, and peanuts. With their soft texture and natural sweetness, these dumplings are perfect as a side dish or a snack, and they offer a unique, oil-free alternative to many other desserts. The steaming method not only enhances the taste but also retains the nutritional goodness of the ingredients.
In this recipe, the dough is made with rice flour and water, creating a smooth, soft base that perfectly complements the sweet coconut filling. The addition of cinnamon and black pepper powder provides a subtle warmth, making these dumplings even more irresistible. Ideal for vegetarians, these dumplings are a great way to introduce traditional Assamese flavors to your kitchen.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| For the dough: | |
| Rice flour | 2 cups |
| Water | 1 cup + 2 tablespoons extra |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| For the stuffing: | |
| Fresh coconut (grated) | 1 cup |
| Jaggery (powdered) | 1/2 cup |
| Raw peanuts (roasted) | 1/2 cup |
| Cinnamon powder (Dalchini) | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Stuffing:
Begin by preparing the stuffing for the rice dumplings. In a pan, combine the grated fresh coconut, powdered jaggery, and roasted peanuts. Cook this mixture on a low flame for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once well-mixed and slightly heated, add the cinnamon powder and black pepper powder to the stuffing. Stir until the spices are fully incorporated, then remove from heat. Allow the mixture to cool down completely before setting it aside. -
Make the Dumpling Dough:
In a heavy-bottomed pan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. While the water is heating, take 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl and dissolve 1 teaspoon of rice flour in it, forming a thick slurry. Add this slurry into the boiling water, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Let the water come to a rolling boil. -
Add the remaining rice flour and salt all at once to the boiling water. Stir the mixture vigorously over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, until it begins to thicken and form a dough-like consistency. Switch off the flame, cover the pan with a lid, and let the dough sit for 10 minutes to cool slightly.
-
Knead the Dough:
Once the dough is cool enough to handle, knead it until it becomes smooth and soft. Divide the dough into small portions, rolling them into balls, similar to the size of chapati dough balls. -
Shape the Dumplings:
Take each dough ball and press it gently with your fingertip at the center to create a small indentation. Fill this hole with a spoonful of the prepared coconut stuffing. Carefully close the dough around the filling, using wet fingers to seal it properly. Shape the dumplings into smooth, round balls. -
Steam the Dumplings:
Place the stuffed dumplings in a steamer and steam them for about 15 minutes, or until they are firm and cooked through. You can check them by gently pressing on the dumplings – they should feel soft but firm to the touch. -
Serve:
Once the dumplings are cooked, remove them from the steamer and allow them to cool slightly before serving. These sweet rice dumplings can be enjoyed as a delightful side dish or a sweet treat, perfect for pairing with vegetarian dishes like Vegetarian Thukpa for a wholesome and light meal.
Serving Suggestions:
Assamese Mohura Pitha pairs beautifully with light, vegetarian soups and stews, offering a wonderful contrast in texture and flavor. Serve them as a side dish to brighten up a simple meal or enjoy them as a snack to share with loved ones. Their naturally sweet flavor makes them an ideal choice for a comforting treat on any occasion, especially festive days.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~120 kcal |
| Protein | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fat | 2g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 10g |
| Sodium | 50mg |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient variations and serving sizes.
This recipe for Assamese-style Mohura Pitha encapsulates the essence of Assamese cuisine with its delicate flavors and healthy, oil-free preparation. Perfect for those who appreciate traditional recipes with a twist, these dumplings are sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
