Mangalorean Style Cheenikayi Kadubu Recipe (Pumpkin Sweet Idli Recipe)
Mangalorean Style Cheenikayi Kadubu, also known as Pumpkin Sweet Idli, is a traditional and delicious dish hailing from the coastal regions of India. This unique steamed rice cake, flavored with the natural sweetness of pumpkin, combines the earthy tones of broken raw rice with fresh coconut and aromatic cardamom, creating a warm and comforting breakfast option. The soft and fluffy steamed cakes not only offer a satisfying breakfast but are also considered diabetic-friendly, thanks to the nutritional benefits of pumpkin. Besides being a great choice for maintaining healthy blood sugar levels, this dish is rich in antioxidants that support heart health and improve vision. Whether you’re seeking a light, nutritious breakfast or an interesting addition to your brunch table, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Kaddu (Parangikai/Pumpkin), peeled, boiled, and mashed | 2 cups |
| Fresh coconut, freshly grated | 1 cup |
| Broken Raw Rice | 1 cup |
| Cardamom Powder (Elaichi) | 1 pinch |
| Salt | To taste |
| Water | As required |
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Instructions
-
Grind the Broken Rice
Begin by grinding the broken raw rice in a mixer with a little water. The goal is to create a coarse, grainy texture rather than a completely smooth paste. The mixture should retain some of the rice’s natural texture. -
Cook the Pumpkin
In a pressure cooker, add the chopped pumpkin along with a little water. Cook for about 4 whistles, or until the pumpkin is soft and mushy. Once done, mash the pumpkin into a smooth paste. -
Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground rice mixture and the mashed pumpkin. Add the freshly grated coconut, cardamom powder, and salt. Mix thoroughly until all the ingredients are well combined. Let the mixture rest for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. -
Steam the Kadubu
Prepare an idli steamer by adding water to the bottom and heating it on medium heat. Lightly oil the idli mold holes to ensure the cakes do not stick. Once the steamer is ready, spoon about two tablespoons of the pumpkin rice mixture into each mold. Steam the kadubu for about 30 minutes. To check for doneness, touch the idliโif it does not stick to your fingers, itโs ready. -
Rest and Serve
Once steamed, remove the kadubu from the steamer and let them cool for 10 minutes. You can then remove the idlis by gently loosening them with a knife or using your hands. -
Enjoy!
Serve the Mangalorean Style Cheenikayi Kadubu with coconut chutney for a delightful and wholesome breakfast. The combination of the sweet and savory flavors makes it an excellent dish to start your day on a nourishing note.
Allergen Information
- This recipe contains coconut, which is a potential allergen for individuals with coconut allergies.
- It is free from common allergens like gluten, dairy, and nuts, making it suitable for most dietary restrictions, although it’s always best to check for individual sensitivities.
Dietary Preferences
- Diabetic Friendly: The pumpkin used in this dish is low in glycemic index, making it suitable for people managing their blood sugar levels.
- Vegan: The recipe is plant-based, containing no animal products.
- Gluten-Free: The use of broken raw rice ensures that this recipe is gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: The dish does not contain any dairy, making it suitable for lactose-intolerant individuals or those following a dairy-free diet.
Advice & Tips
- Consistency of the Mixture: The texture of the pumpkin and rice mixture should not be too watery, as it may affect the steaming process. Adjust the amount of water accordingly when grinding the rice and mashing the pumpkin.
- Flavors: For a slight variation, you can experiment with a pinch of saffron or nutmeg to enhance the aroma of the kadubu.
- Serving Ideas: In addition to coconut chutney, you could serve this dish with a simple tomato chutney or a tangy tamarind sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
Conclusion
Mangalorean Style Cheenikayi Kadubu is not just a breakfast dishโit’s a wholesome, nourishing, and heart-healthy delight. This pumpkin sweet idli recipe combines simple ingredients with traditional Mangalorean flavors, making it a delicious and unique way to start your day. Whether you’re looking to keep your meals diabetic-friendly, boost your vision, or simply enjoy a flavorful and comforting breakfast, this recipe offers the perfect solution. Enjoy it fresh from the steamer with a side of coconut chutney, and embrace the goodness that Mangalorean cuisine has to offer!
