Coconut Kozhukattai: A Traditional Tamil Dessert
Coconut Kozhukattai is a delectable and aromatic South Indian dessert, commonly enjoyed in Tamil Nadu and other parts of Southern India. Made from rice flour, fresh coconut, jaggery, and flavored with a hint of salt and ghee, this recipe is both simple and wholesome. Typically served as a snack or a dessert, it holds a special place in festive occasions like Ganesh Chaturthi, as well as regular family meals.
This delightful dish is steamed to perfection, creating soft, pillowy balls that are subtly sweet and packed with flavor. It’s a perfect treat for those with a sweet tooth, and also an excellent way to introduce children to traditional Indian sweets. Let’s take a look at how to make this delicious dessert.
Coconut Kozhukattai Recipe
Cuisine: Tamil Nadu
Course: Dessert
Diet: Vegetarian
Servings: 5
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh coconut | 50 grams |
| Rice flour | 150 grams |
| Jaggery (powdered) | 80 grams |
| Ghee (clarified butter) | As required to bind |
| Water | As needed |
| Salt | A pinch |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~120 kcal |
| Protein | ~1.5 g |
| Carbohydrates | ~25 g |
| Fat | ~3.5 g |
| Fiber | ~1 g |
| Sugars | ~15 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Ingredients:
- Begin by finely grinding the jaggery into a powder using a traditional ammikallu (stone grinder) or in a mixer grinder. This step ensures the jaggery melts easily and integrates well into the dough.
- Sift the rice flour to remove any lumps, and transfer it to a large mixing bowl.
- Add the freshly grated coconut, a small pinch of salt, and a little ghee (clarified butter) into the bowl. The ghee helps bind the ingredients together and adds a rich flavor.
-
Make the Dough:
- Boil water in a saucepan. Gradually pour the hot water into the rice flour mixture, a little at a time. As you add the water, knead the mixture into a smooth, soft dough.
- The dough should be soft but not sticky. Add more water if necessary, but be careful not to make the dough too wet. The consistency should be like play-dough.
-
Shape the Kozhukattai:
- Once the dough is ready, divide it into small portions and shape them into balls (approximately 1.5-2 inches in diameter). The size can vary depending on personal preference, but they should not be too large, as they need to steam properly.
-
Prepare the Steamer:
- Set up your steamer and bring the water to a boil beneath the steaming plate. If you don’t have a traditional steamer, you can use a regular steaming setup by placing a heatproof plate or tray inside a large pot with a lid.
- Lightly grease the steamer plate with ghee to prevent the Kozhukattai from sticking.
-
Steam the Kozhukattai:
- Carefully place the shaped dough balls onto the steamer plate, ensuring they are not overcrowded, as this will allow them to cook evenly.
- Steam the Kozhukattai for about 10 minutes, or until they are completely cooked. The texture should be soft and tender when tested with a toothpick or fork.
-
Serve:
- Once done, remove the steamed Coconut Kozhukattai from the steamer and serve them warm. These sweet treats are best enjoyed fresh, either on their own or paired with a soothing cup of Turmeric Milk (Haldi Doodh) for an added touch of comfort.
Serving Suggestions
- Coconut Kozhukattai can be served as a snack or dessert at any time of the day. They are perfect for festive occasions, tea time, or as a comforting post-meal treat.
- Pair with a cup of Turmeric Milk (Haldi Doodh) to enhance the experience, especially during colder months or for special health benefits.
Tips and Variations
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Jaggery Substitutes: If you don’t have jaggery, you can use brown sugar as an alternative, though the taste will vary slightly. Jaggery adds a distinctive depth of flavor and is a traditional choice for this recipe.
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Flavors: You can add cardamom powder or a few saffron strands for an aromatic twist. These ingredients will elevate the fragrance and taste of the Kozhukattai, making it more festive.
-
For a Crunchy Touch: For a different texture, try adding crushed cashews or almonds to the filling before steaming.
Coconut Kozhukattai: A Heartwarming Tradition
Coconut Kozhukattai is more than just a dessert; it’s a cultural symbol that brings families together. The delightful combination of rice flour, jaggery, and coconut creates a warm, comforting dish that is both delicious and healthy. The steaming process ensures that the Kozhukattai remains soft and moist, making it a perfect snack or dessert for people of all ages.
So, the next time you’re looking to create something both traditional and scrumptious, give this Coconut Kozhukattai recipe a try. Its simplicity, combined with the richness of coconut and jaggery, makes it a timeless treat that will be enjoyed by all.
Enjoy your meal, and may it bring you the warmth and sweetness of Tamil Nadu’s culinary heritage!
