Sweet Kozhukattai And Sweet Modak Nithyas Nalabagam

Shanthi Krishnakumar's cook book VAZHUKKU KOZHUKATTAI / KALLU

Cover Shanthi Krishnakumar's cook book VAZHUKKU KOZHUKATTAI / KALLU (1600x1217)

Table of Contents

• What is Kozhukattai?
• Ingredients
• Preparation
• Variations
• Serving

What is Kozhukattai?

Kozhukattai, also known as Modak or Vella Kozhukattai, is a popular South Indian sweet dish that is typically made during the festival of Ganesh Chaturthi. It is a steamed dumpling made of rice flour and filled with a sweet or savory filling. The sweet version is commonly made with jaggery and coconut, while the savory version can be made with various fillings like lentils, sesame seeds, or grated vegetables.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you will need to make Kozhukattai:

• 1 cup rice flour
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup grated coconut
• 1/2 cup jaggery, grated
• 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
• A pinch of salt
• Ghee or oil for greasing

Preparation

Follow these steps to prepare Kozhukattai:

1. In a pan, heat water and bring it to a boil.
2. Add salt and a teaspoon of ghee or oil to the boiling water.
3. Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the rice flour to the boiling water, stirring continuously.
4. Once the mixture forms a dough-like consistency, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool slightly.
5. Knead the dough well until it becomes smooth and pliable.
6. In a separate pan, heat the grated coconut and jaggery together until the jaggery melts and blends well with the coconut.
7. Add cardamom powder to the coconut-jaggery mixture and mix well.
8. Divide the dough into small portions and shape them into balls.
9. Flatten each ball of dough in your palm and fill it with a spoonful of the coconut-jaggery mixture.
10. Seal the edges of the dough and shape it into a modak or dumpling.
11. Repeat the process with the remaining dough and filling.
12. Steam the prepared Kozhukattai in a steamer for about 15-20 minutes or until they are cooked and firm.
13. Remove the Kozhukattai from the steamer and allow them to cool slightly before serving.

Variations

Kozhukattai can be made with different fillings to suit your taste. Here are a few variations:

• Savory Kozhukattai: Instead of the sweet coconut-jaggery filling, you can use a savory filling made with lentils, sesame seeds, or grated vegetables.
• Chocolate Kozhukattai: Add cocoa powder to the dough and fill it with a chocolate and nut mixture for a delicious twist.
• Fruit Kozhukattai: Use mashed ripe fruits like banana or mango as a filling for a fruity delight.
• Nuts and Dry Fruits Kozhukattai: Add chopped nuts and dry fruits like cashews, almonds, and raisins to the coconut-jaggery filling for added flavor and texture.

Serving

Kozhukattai is traditionally served as a prasad (offering) during the festival of Ganesh Chaturthi. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Serve it as a dessert or as a snack with a cup of hot tea or coffee.

Conclusion

Kozhukattai is a delicious South Indian sweet dish that is commonly made during the festival of Ganesh Chaturthi. It is a steamed dumpling made of rice flour and filled with a sweet or savory filling. The sweet version, made with coconut and jaggery, is the most popular. However, there are various other fillings and variations that can be explored to suit different preferences. Whether you enjoy the traditional sweet Kozhukattai or experiment with different flavors, it is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed by all. So, next time you celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi or simply crave something sweet, give Kozhukattai a try and savor the unique flavors of this traditional South Indian delicacy.