Watalappan Recipe: A Traditional Sri Lankan Steamed Egg Pudding with Jaggery
Watalappan is a beloved Sri Lankan dessert that is often served at weddings, festivals, and feasts. It is a sweet and aromatic egg pudding made from Kithul jaggery, fresh coconut milk, and aromatic spices. This delicious dessert is a true representation of Sri Lankan culinary culture, cherished by many for its rich flavor and creamy texture. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or just to indulge in a traditional treat, this Watalappan recipe is sure to captivate your taste buds.
Cuisine: Sri Lankan
Course: Dessert
Diet: Eggetarian
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients for Watalappan
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Coconut Milk | 300 ml |
| Jaggery (Kithul Jaggery/Goan Jaggery) | 200 grams |
| Whole Eggs | 5 eggs |
| Cardamom Powder (Elaichi) | 1 tablespoon |
| Cinnamon Powder (Dalchini) | 1 tablespoon |
| Pistachios | 8, finely chopped |
| Cashew Nuts | 6, finely chopped |
| Sultana Raisins (Kishmish) | 10 pieces |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 210 kcal |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Carbohydrates | 32 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 25 g |
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Watalappan
-
Grate the Jaggery:
Begin by grating the jaggery. It’s important to use Kithul Jaggery or Goan Jaggery, as this provides the authentic flavor that is characteristic of this Sri Lankan dessert. Set the grated jaggery aside. -
-
Prepare the Eggs:
Crack the whole eggs into a large bowl. Whisk the eggs vigorously until they become frothy and slightly airy. This will ensure a light texture in the final pudding. -
Blend the Ingredients:
In a blender, combine the frothed eggs, coconut milk, grated jaggery, cardamom powder, and cinnamon powder. Blend all the ingredients until the mixture becomes smooth and fluffy without any lumps. -
Strain the Mixture:
To achieve a silky-smooth texture, strain the blended mixture using a fine cloth or a strainer. This step removes any remaining bits and ensures that the pudding has a velvety consistency. -
Add the Nuts and Raisins:
Once the mixture is strained, pour it into a steaming bowl. Finely chop the pistachios, cashews, and sultana raisins. Sprinkle half of these chopped nuts and raisins into the mixture, giving it a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor. -
Steam the Pudding:
Cover the bowl tightly with aluminum foil to avoid any moisture from dripping into the pudding. Steam the mixture for approximately 30 minutes in a steamer or pressure cooker over medium heat. Make sure the water level is not too high to prevent water from splashing into the pudding. -
Final Touch:
Once the Watalappan is cooked and set, turn off the heat. Carefully remove the pudding from the steamer and uncover the foil. Sprinkle the remaining chopped pistachios, cashews, and raisins on top for a finishing touch of texture and flavor. -
Chill and Serve:
Allow the Watalappan to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate it for a few hours to let the flavors develop and the pudding set properly. Serve chilled, and enjoy the indulgent, aromatic layers of sweet, creamy pudding.
Tips for the Perfect Watalappan:
- Jaggery is Key: The unique flavor of Watalappan depends greatly on the use of Kithul Jaggery or Goan Jaggery. Avoid using palm jaggery or sugar, as they will not provide the authentic taste.
- Steaming Tip: If you don’t have a steamer, you can use a pressure cooker without the pressure. Just remove the weight and allow the steam to cook the pudding.
- Garnishing Options: For an extra touch, you can garnish the Watalappan with additional chopped nuts or even a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or cardamom for added fragrance.
Serving Suggestions:
Watalappan can be served as a standalone dessert or paired with other Sri Lankan delicacies for a complete festive meal. It is a perfect addition to your celebrations when served alongside dishes such as:
- Chicken Malai Kabab Recipe
- Pakki Mutton Biryani Recipe
- Tomato Onion Cucumber Raita Recipe
Watalappan is not just a dessert; it is an experience—rich, fragrant, and a celebration of Sri Lankan flavors. Prepare this delightful treat to impress your guests or simply to indulge in a traditional dessert that has stood the test of time.
Enjoy your Watalappan, a true taste of Sri Lanka!
