Oats Sakkarai Pongal Recipe
Cuisine: South Indian | Course: Dessert | Diet: Vegetarian
Description:
Oats Sakkarai Pongal is a delightful, wholesome dessert that beautifully combines the traditional flavors of South India with a modern twist. This recipe offers a healthy alternative to the classic Sakkarai Pongal by using instant oats instead of rice, making it an ideal choice for those looking to reduce their rice intake without compromising on taste. The creamy texture, enriched with the flavors of ghee, jaggery, and cardamom, makes it an irresistible dish. Perfect for celebrations, festivals, or even as a nutritious breakfast, this recipe is easy to make and quick to prepare.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ghee | 1 tablespoon |
| Instant Oats (Oatmeal) | 1 cup |
| Jaggery | 1/2 cup |
| Cardamom Powder (Elaichi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Yellow Moong Dal (Split) | 1/2 cup |
| For Seasoning | |
| Ghee | 2 tablespoons |
| Cashew Nuts (quartered) | 2 tablespoons |
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Serves: 4
Instructions:
-
Cooking the Yellow Moong Dal:
Begin by cooking the yellow split Moong Dal. Using a pressure cooker is the quickest method, but a saucepan can also be used. Rinse the Moong Dal under cold water and place it in the pressure cooker. Add 3/4 cup of water to the dal. Close the lid, place the weight, and cook on medium-high heat. Wait for one whistle, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for an additional 3 to 4 minutes. Once done, turn off the heat and let the pressure release naturally. Set the cooked Moong Dal aside. -
Roasting and Cooking the Oats:
In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat 1 tablespoon of ghee on medium heat. Add the instant oats and sauté for a few minutes, toasting them lightly. This step will help bring out the flavor and texture. Add 3/4 cup of water to the pan and stir. Cook the oats for 3 to 4 minutes, continuing to stir to ensure they cook evenly and absorb the water. -
Incorporating Jaggery and Moong Dal:
Once the oats are cooked, stir in the jaggery. Allow the jaggery to melt fully into the oats, giving the dish a rich, golden sweetness. Add the cooked Moong Dal and cardamom powder, stirring everything to combine. Taste and adjust the sweetness to your preference by adding more jaggery if desired. Cover the pan and reduce the heat to low, allowing the flavors to blend. -
Preparing the Seasoning:
To make the seasoning, heat 2 tablespoons of ghee in a small pan on medium heat. Add the quartered cashew nuts and roast them until golden brown. Be sure to keep an eye on them to avoid burning. Once they are perfectly roasted, turn off the heat. -
Combining the Seasoning:
Pour the roasted cashews and ghee over the Oats Sakkarai Pongal. Gently stir to combine the seasoning with the oats and dal mixture, infusing it with a final burst of flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
Oats Sakkarai Pongal is traditionally served during the Pongal Festival, a celebration of the harvest season. However, it also makes for an excellent breakfast option or a comforting dessert after a hearty meal. Serve it alongside other Pongal dishes like Oats Ven Pongal or Foxtail Millet Pongal for a complete South Indian feast.
Nutritional Information (Approx.):
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 4g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4g |
| Sugars | 18g |
| Fat | 9g |
| Saturated Fat | 4g |
| Sodium | 15mg |
| Cholesterol | 10mg |
Tips:
- Adjusting Sweetness: Depending on the sweetness of your jaggery, you may want to adjust the quantity to match your taste preference.
- Alternative Grains: You can experiment with different grains like foxtail millet or brown rice for a variation of this dish.
- Roast the Moong Dal: If you prefer a deeper flavor, you can lightly roast the Moong Dal before cooking it to enhance its nutty taste.
This Oats Sakkarai Pongal is a perfect blend of traditional and modern, offering the comfort of a classic South Indian dessert while being a healthier choice with oats. It’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Whether you’re celebrating a festival or simply want a nutritious start to your day, this recipe is sure to delight!
