Kerala Palada Pradhaman Recipe: A Sweet Delight from God’s Own Country
Introduction
Kerala, known for its lush landscapes and rich culture, offers a plethora of culinary delights, one of which is the delectable Kerala Palada Pradhaman. This traditional dessert, often served during festivals and special occasions, is a perfect amalgamation of creamy milk, sweet ada (rice flakes), and aromatic cardamom, creating a dish that’s not only delicious but also steeped in the warmth of Kerala’s heritage. The sweetness of this dessert can beautifully complement a hearty meal, making it an ideal finale for any feast.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ada (rice flakes) | 1 cup |
| Full cream milk | 2 liters |
| Sugar | 3/4 cup |
| Ghee (clarified butter) | 1 tablespoon |
| Cardamom powder (Elaichi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 360 |
| Total Fat | 15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 9 g |
| Cholesterol | 40 mg |
| Sodium | 90 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 55 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugars | 25 g |
| Protein | 9 g |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 75 minutes
- Total Time: 90 minutes
Servings
- Servings: 4
Cuisine
- Cuisine: Kerala Recipes
- Course: Dessert
- Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
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Boiling the Milk:
To start your Kerala Palada Pradhaman, take a heavy-bottomed pot or a pressure cooker. Pour in the full cream milk along with 1/2 cup of sugar. Bring it to a slow boil over a low flame. This step is crucial as you want the milk to reduce significantly, thickening it and enhancing its natural sweetness. If using a pressure cooker, cover it without the weight and allow the milk to simmer for about 60 minutes. You’ll notice the milk will take on a slightly pink hue, indicating it’s ready. -
-
Cooking the Ada:
While the milk is reducing, prepare the ada as per the packet instructions. Once cooked, ensure you drain the ada thoroughly. Rinse it under cold water to halt the cooking process. This step will help maintain the perfect texture of the ada. -
Creating the Sweet Mixture:
In a separate pan, heat 1 tablespoon of ghee over medium heat. Once melted, add 1/4 cup of sugar to the ghee and sauté it gently. Keep an eye on it as you wait for the sugar to melt and begin to turn a light brown color, which adds a beautiful caramel flavor to the dish. -
Combining Ingredients:
Once the sugar has melted, add the cooked ada to the ghee and sauté for about 2 minutes, ensuring the ada is well-coated. Next, pour in 1 to 1-1/2 cups of the boiled milk, mixing thoroughly to combine. If you prefer a creamier consistency, feel free to add more milk. -
Finishing Touches:
Finally, sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon of cardamom powder into the mixture, stirring well to distribute the aromatic flavor throughout the dessert. -
Serving:
Kerala Palada Pradhaman can be enjoyed either hot or cold, depending on your preference. The warmth of the dessert, combined with the fragrance of cardamom, creates a delightful experience for the senses.For a true Kerala meal experience, serve this sweet treat alongside traditional dishes like Keerai Sambar, Beetroot Thoran, and Steamed Rice. This way, you can indulge in a complete feast that highlights the diverse flavors of Kerala cuisine.
Conclusion
Kerala Palada Pradhaman is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of the rich culinary traditions of Kerala. With its creamy texture and fragrant spices, this dish not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also evokes a sense of nostalgia and warmth. Whether you’re making it for a festive occasion or simply as a treat for your loved ones, this recipe promises to bring joy to your dining table. Enjoy the delicious journey this dessert offers, and relish every bite of Kerala’s sweet heritage!
