Kodava Thalia Puttu Recipe – Steamed Rice Coconut Cake
Kodava Thalia Puttu, a traditional dish hailing from the Coorgi region of India, is a delightful South Indian breakfast treat. This steamed rice and coconut cake is a comforting, light, and flavorful dish that pairs wonderfully with chutneys and curries. The delicate texture and subtly sweet taste of Thalia Puttu make it a perfect start to your day, especially when served with sides like North Karnataka Style Nuggekai Kharbyaali (a local peanut dish) and Coconut Chutney. Let’s dive into this wholesome recipe that’s vegetarian, easy to make, and rich in regional flavors.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rice | 1 cup |
| Cooked rice | 1/2 cup |
| White Urad Dal (Split) | 1/2 cup |
| Methi Seeds (Fenugreek Seeds) | 1 teaspoon |
| Coconut milk | 1 cup |
| Sugar | 2 teaspoons |
| Baking soda | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Salt | to taste |
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Coorg
Course: South Indian Breakfast
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
-
Soak the Ingredients
Begin by soaking the raw rice and fenugreek seeds in a large bowl of water. Let the mixture soak for at least 6 hours or overnight. This will help in softening the rice, making it easier to grind. -
-
Grind the Batter
After the soaking period, drain the water from the rice mixture and reserve a little bit of the soaked water to aid in grinding. In a blender or food processor, combine the soaked rice, fenugreek seeds, and 1/2 cup of the soaked water. Grind it all together into a smooth batter.
Next, add the cooked rice to the mixture along with some more soaked water if needed. Grind once more until you achieve a soft, smooth consistency. -
Ferment the Batter
Transfer the batter to a large mixing bowl. Add coconut milk and sugar to the batter, and mix everything thoroughly. Cover the bowl with a muslin cloth or a plate and place it in a warm spot. Allow the batter to ferment for several hours, ideally overnight. The fermentation process will cause the batter to rise and develop small bubbles on top, indicating it’s ready for steaming. -
Add Salt and Baking Soda
Once the batter has fermented, it will have expanded slightly. Stir in salt and baking soda, mixing well to ensure that the batter is smooth and evenly seasoned. -
Prepare the Steamer
Set up your steamer by adding water to the base and bringing it to a gentle boil over medium heat. Grease a steaming pan or plate with a little oil to prevent the batter from sticking. Carefully pour the prepared batter into the pan, smoothing it out to create an even layer. -
Steam the Puttu
Place the pan with the batter into the steamer. Cover and steam for about 15 minutes or until the Thalia Puttu is cooked through. To check if it’s done, insert a skewer or knife into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, your Puttu is ready. -
Serve
Once the Thalia Puttu is steamed, remove it from the pan carefully. Slice into wedges or squares and serve hot, accompanied by North Karnataka Style Nuggekai Kharbyaali and Coconut Chutney for a complete breakfast experience.
Cooking Tips & Variations
- Fermentation: If you’re short on time, you can let the batter ferment for a shorter period, though the flavors will develop more deeply if you ferment it overnight.
- Consistency: The consistency of the batter should be thick but pourable. Add water gradually during grinding to adjust the consistency as needed.
- Serving Ideas: Thalia Puttu is often enjoyed with a variety of chutneys or curries. For an authentic experience, serve it with Kharbyaali or other local Coorgi specialties.
- Vegan Option: Replace the coconut milk with almond milk or another plant-based alternative if you prefer a non-dairy version.
Conclusion
Kodava Thalia Puttu is an exquisite dish that beautifully showcases the flavors of Coorgi cuisine. Its simplicity and rich, nutty coconut flavor make it a beloved breakfast option in the region. The soft, fluffy texture of the rice cakes pairs wonderfully with tangy chutneys, making each bite a delightful treat. Whether you’re new to South Indian cuisine or a long-time fan, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy a peaceful morning meal with the delicious, aromatic taste of Kodava Thalia Puttu!
