Mangalorean Style Cheenikayi Kadubu (Pumpkin Sweet Idli)
Mangalorean cuisine offers an abundance of flavorful, hearty dishes, and one of the lesser-known gems from this region is the Mangalorean Style Cheenikayi Kadubu—a sweet, savory steamed idli made with pumpkin. This pumpkin sweet idli (Kadubu) is a delightful breakfast treat that pairs perfectly with coconut chutney and is a fantastic way to start your day, especially for those seeking a diabetic-friendly option with natural sweetness from the pumpkin.
This easy-to-make dish uses Kaddu (pumpkin), fresh coconut, and raw rice to create a soft, spongy idli, complemented by a subtle cardamom flavor. The combination of pumpkin and rice provides a comforting and filling breakfast, while the light cardamom adds a fragrance that elevates the dish. Let’s dive into the preparation process for this Mangalorean Style Cheenikayi Kadubu recipe.
Ingredients for Mangalorean Style Cheenikayi Kadubu (Pumpkin Sweet Idli)
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Kaddu (Parangikai/Pumpkin) | 2 cups (peeled) |
| Fresh Coconut (grated) | 1 cup |
| Broken Raw Rice | 1 cup |
| Cardamom Powder (Elaichi) | 1 pinch |
| Salt | To taste |
| Water | As required |
Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)
| Nutrient | Quantity per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Fat | 0.5 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugars | 4 g |
| Sodium | 80 mg |
Prep Time
- 10 minutes
Cook Time
- 45 minutes
Total Time
- 55 minutes
Servings
- 4 servings
Cuisine
- Mangalorean
Course
- South Indian Breakfast
Diet
- Diabetic Friendly
Instructions
-
Grind the Rice:
Start by grinding the broken raw rice in a mixer grinder with a small amount of water to form a coarse mixture. The texture should be slightly grainy and not completely smooth. This step is crucial as it ensures the idlis retain their soft and fluffy texture after steaming. -
Cook the Pumpkin:
In a pressure cooker, add the chopped pumpkin (Kaddu) and a little water. Cook for about 4 whistles, or until the pumpkin becomes soft and mushy. Once cooked, mash the pumpkin into a smooth paste. This step enhances the natural sweetness of the pumpkin, which gives the Kadubu its characteristic flavor. -
Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed pumpkin with the ground rice mixture. Add grated fresh coconut, a pinch of cardamom powder, and salt to taste. Mix everything together thoroughly until the ingredients are evenly incorporated. Let the mixture rest for about 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. -
Prepare the Steaming Setup:
While the mixture is resting, prepare your idli steamer. Add water to the steamer and heat it on medium flame. Once the water is boiling, lightly grease each hole in the idli stand with a drop of oil to prevent sticking. -
Steam the Kadubus:
After greasing, spoon about 2 tablespoons of the pumpkin idli mixture into each hole of the idli stand. Carefully place the stand in the steaming pot and cover with a lid. Steam the Kadubu for about 30 minutes. Check if the idlis are cooked by gently pressing them. They should not stick to your fingers. If they are still soft, steam for another 5–10 minutes. -
Rest and Serve:
Once done, remove the Kadubus from the steamer and let them rest for about 10 minutes. You can scoop them out using your hands or with a knife. The steamed idlis should be soft, moist, and lightly sweetened by the pumpkin. Serve the Mangalorean Style Cheenikayi Kadubu hot with a side of coconut chutney for a truly authentic breakfast experience.
Tips and Variations:
- Coconut Chutney: Serve with a refreshing coconut chutney made from fresh coconut, green chilies, and tamarind, which complements the sweetness of the Kadubu perfectly.
- Sweetness Adjustment: If you prefer a sweeter Kadubu, you can add a little jaggery or brown sugar to the mixture, but traditionally, the pumpkin’s natural sweetness is enough.
- Texture Variation: For a slightly smoother texture, you can grind the rice mixture to a finer consistency.
Enjoy Your Mangalorean Breakfast!
The Mangalorean Style Cheenikayi Kadubu is an excellent choice for a light, nutritious, and flavorful breakfast. With its natural sweetness, soft texture, and warm spices, it’s sure to be a hit with anyone looking for a traditional yet healthy meal. Pair it with coconut chutney, and you have a truly satisfying meal to kickstart your day.
