Manda Pitha Recipe – Orissa Style Steamed Rice Flour Dumplings
Description
Manda Pitha is a traditional Oriya dessert with a rich history, dating back several centuries in Odisha. This delightful steamed rice flour dumpling is stuffed with a sweet, fragrant filling made from freshly grated coconut, sugar or jaggery, and homemade paneer. Known for its versatility, this dish has numerous variations, making it a beloved part of festive lunches and tea-time snacks in Odisha. With the perfect balance of textures and flavors, Manda Pitha brings the essence of traditional Oriya cooking to your kitchen, offering a memorable taste of history in every bite.
Cuisine
Oriya Recipes
Course
Dessert
Diet
Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rice flour | 1 cup |
| Corn flour | 1 teaspoon |
| Water | 1/2 cup |
| Milk | 1/2 cup |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Cardamom powder (Elaichi) | 1 tablespoon |
| Fresh coconut (grated) | 1/2 cup |
| Paneer (Homemade cottage cheese) | 4 tablespoons |
| Sugar | 3/4 cup |
Preparation Time
20 minutes
Cooking Time
60 minutes
Instructions
-
Prepare the Dough
Begin by heating the water and milk together in a pot. Add the cardamom powder and salt to infuse the mixture with aromatic flavor. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. -
Make the Dough
Gradually add the rice flour and corn flour to the boiling mixture, one part at a time. Stir continuously to ensure there are no lumps. Once all the flour is added, reduce the heat to low and keep stirring until the mixture thickens and absorbs all the liquid, forming a smooth, cohesive dough ball. -
Let the Dough Rest
Turn off the heat and cover the dough. Allow it to cool down for a few minutes. While the dough is cooling, prepare the sweet filling. -
Prepare the Sweet Filling
In a pan, heat 2 tablespoons of ghee. Add the grated coconut, homemade paneer, and sugar to the pan, mixing everything well. Cook this mixture over low heat for about 7 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes slightly thickened and the flavors meld together. Set this filling aside to cool. -
Shape the Dough
Once the dough is cool enough to handle, apply a small amount of oil to your palms. Knead the dough until it reaches a soft, pliable texture. Take a portion of dough, roughly the size of a tennis ball, and make a small indentation in the center. -
Stuff the Dumplings
Fill the dented dough with about 1 tablespoon of the sweet filling. Carefully seal the dough around the filling, shaping it into a smooth ball. Be sure there are no gaps or cracks in the dough to prevent the filling from leaking out during steaming. -
Steam the Manda Pitha
Place the filled dumplings in a steaming basket. Heat water in a steamer and arrange the Manda Pitha inside. Steam the dumplings for about 10 minutes, or until they become firm and fully cooked through. -
Serve
Serve the Manda Pitha warm as a delicious dessert or treat during festive meals. These soft, sweet dumplings can be enjoyed on their own or paired with savory dishes like Poori and Aloo Methi Masala for a truly festive breakfast experience.
Serving Suggestions
Manda Pitha can be served alongside other traditional dishes such as Poori and Aloo Methi Masala, or Vatana Usal for a complete and satisfying meal. These steamed rice flour dumplings are also perfect for tea-time gatherings, offering a delicate, flavorful treat to enjoy with family and friends.
Tips & Variations
- Filling Options: While the traditional filling is made with coconut, sugar, and paneer, you can experiment with other fillings like jaggery, sesame seeds, or even a mixture of chopped dry fruits for a unique twist.
- Steam Basket: If you don’t have a steamer, you can also use a large pot with a steaming rack or a makeshift steamer using a deep pan and a heatproof plate.
- Texture: For a slightly different texture, try using a combination of rice flour and semolina (rava) for a more coarse dough.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 220
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
Indulge in the timeless flavors of Orissa with this delightful Manda Pitha recipe. Perfect for celebrating occasions or as a special treat, these steamed rice flour dumplings are sure to be a hit with everyone!
