Discover the secrets of south indian cuisine: how to make perfect rice flour puttu!
What To Know
- Place the puttu maker in a steamer and steam for 10-12 minutes, or until the puttu is cooked through.
- Yes, you can use a cylindrical mold or a bamboo steamer lined with a cheesecloth.
- Puttu can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Puttu, a beloved breakfast dish from South India, is a cylindrical-shaped delicacy made from steamed rice flour. Its unique texture and aromatic flavors have captivated taste buds for centuries. If you’re yearning to recreate this culinary masterpiece at home, follow our comprehensive guide on how to make rice flour puttu.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups fine rice flour
- 1 cup grated coconut
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for greasing the puttu maker)
Essential Equipment:
- Puttu maker
- Steamer
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Rice Flour:
In a large bowl, combine the rice flour and salt. Gradually pour in the boiling water while stirring continuously to form a soft and pliable dough. Cover the dough and allow it to rest for 15-20 minutes.
2. Grease the Puttu Maker:
Lightly grease the inside of the puttu maker with vegetable oil. This will prevent the puttu from sticking to the mold.
3. Layer the Dough and Coconut:
Divide the dough into equal portions and roll them into cylindrical shapes. Alternate layers of dough and grated coconut inside the puttu maker, starting with a layer of dough. Press down gently to pack the layers tightly.
4. Steam the Puttu:
Place the puttu maker in a steamer and steam for 10-12 minutes, or until the puttu is cooked through. You can check by inserting a toothpick into the center of the puttu; if it comes out clean, it’s done.
5. Remove the Puttu:
Once cooked, carefully remove the puttu from the maker. You can use a knife to gently loosen the sides before inverting it onto a plate.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the hot puttu with your favorite accompaniments, such as coconut chutney, jaggery syrup, or banana.
Tips for Perfect Puttu:
- Use fine rice flour for a smooth and delicate texture.
- Add a pinch of turmeric powder to enhance the color and flavor.
- If the dough is too dry, add a little more boiling water. If it’s too wet, add a bit more rice flour.
- Steam the puttu for the recommended time to ensure it cooks evenly.
- Serve the puttu immediately for the best taste and texture.
Variations:
- Sweet Puttu: Add jaggery or sugar to the rice flour dough for a sweet variation.
- Savory Puttu: Mix in vegetables such as carrots, peas, or onions to the dough for a savory treat.
- Coconut Milk Puttu: Replace the water with coconut milk for a richer flavor.
- Ragi Puttu: Use ragi flour instead of rice flour for a healthier and gluten-free version.
Recommendations:
Making rice flour puttu at home is a rewarding culinary experience that unveils the flavors of South Indian cuisine. By following these simple instructions and experimenting with variations, you can create this delectable dish to delight your family and friends.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What is the best rice flour to use for puttu?
Fine rice flour works best, as it produces a smooth and soft texture.
2. Can I make puttu without a puttu maker?
Yes, you can use a cylindrical mold or a bamboo steamer lined with a cheesecloth.
3. How long can I store leftover puttu?
Puttu can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.