A Journey into Kerala’s Culinary Delight: The Puttu Recipe

Kerala cuisine is a rich tapestry of flavours, with dishes that tantalize the taste buds and tell stories of tradition. Among these, the beloved Kerala Puttu stands out as a staple, celebrated for its simplicity and versatility. This steamed rice cake, known for its unique cylindrical shape, is a breakfast favourite that holds a special place in every Malayali heart.

How to make Puttu-

Prep Time: 15 minutes  

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients: 

- 1 cup rice flour (for rice puttu)

- 1/2 cup grated coconut

- Water (as needed)

- Salt (to taste)

Instructions: 

1. Prepare the Rice Flour: Begin by lightly roasting the rice flour in a pan until it releases a nutty aroma. Let it cool.
2. Mixing: In a bowl, add the rice flour and a pinch of salt. Gradually sprinkle water, mixing with your fingers until the flour becomes moist and crumbly, resembling wet sand.
3. Layering: In the puttu maker, add a layer of grated coconut followed by a layer of the moistened rice flour. Repeat the layers, finishing with coconut.
4. Steaming: Attach the puttu maker to the pot of boiling water and steam for about 10 minutes or until you see steam escaping from the top.
5. Serving: Gently push the steamed puttu onto a plate. Enjoy it with banana, sugar, or curries like kadala curry for a complete meal.

Puttu Variations and Varieties

1. Ragi Puttu:  Made with finger millet flour, this variation is rich in calcium and iron. It's a healthy alternative to traditional rice puttu, offering a slightly earthy flavour that pairs well with coconut.
2. Wheat Puttu:  This version uses wheat flour, making it a wholesome option. It has a mild, nutty taste and is often enjoyed with curries or sweet accompaniments like jaggery and banana.
3. Chiratta Puttu:  Steamed in coconut shells, Chiratta Puttu absorbs the aroma and subtle flavour of coconut, enhancing its taste. The unique steaming method gives it a distinct shape and texture.
4. Gothambu Puttu:  Made from whole wheat flour, Gothambu Puttu is another nutritious variant. It is denser than rice puttu and is often served with spicy curries, making it a hearty meal.
5. Corn Puttu:  Using cornmeal instead of rice flour, this variation offers a slightly sweet and nutty flavour. It's a colourful and tasty alternative, especially popular with kids.
6. Jackfruit Puttu:  Incorporating ripe jackfruit into the rice flour, this version adds a sweet and aromatic dimension to the traditional recipe, perfect for those who enjoy a hint of fruitiness in their meals.

These variations highlight the versatility of Kerala puttu, allowing you to enjoy different flavours and nutritional benefits while maintaining the traditional essence of this beloved dish.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Puttu

• Perfect Consistency: Ensure the rice flour is evenly moistened but not soggy. The right texture is crucial for fluffy puttu.

• Layering: Alternate layers of coconut and rice flour for a balanced taste.
• Steaming: Do not overfill the puttu maker. Leave some space for the steam to circulate, ensuring even cooking.

Ways to Enjoy Puttu and Popular Accompaniments

Puttu is traditionally enjoyed as a versatile dish, often paired with a variety of accompaniments: 

• Kadala Curry:  A classic pairing, this black chickpea curry is rich and spicy, complementing the mild flavour of rice puttu. The combination provides a balance of carbohydrates and protein, making it a hearty breakfast.

• Banana and Sugar:  For a sweet option, puttu is often served with ripe bananas and a sprinkle of sugar or jaggery. This simple yet delicious combination enhances the natural sweetness of the fruit and adds a delightful contrast to the steamed rice cake.

• Coconut Milk:  Some enjoy puttu with warm, slightly sweetened coconut milk, which adds a creamy texture and rich flavour, making it a comforting meal.

• Fish Curry:  In coastal regions, puttu is sometimes paired with spicy fish curry. The tangy and spicy flavours of the curry contrast beautifully with the soft, mild puttu, creating a satisfying meal.
• Papadum:  Crispy papadum adds a crunchy texture when served alongside puttu. This combination is popular for its delightful mix of textures and flavours.

These accompaniments highlight the versatility of puttu, allowing it to be enjoyed in both savoury and sweet forms, making it a beloved dish in Kerala cuisine.

Conclusion

Exploring the Puttu recipe Kerala-style is a delightful way to experience the essence of this dish. By experimenting with variations like ragi or wheat, you can enjoy a nutritious and versatile meal that captures the heart of Kerala cuisine. Now that you know how to make puttu, try these tips and tricks to elevate your cooking and bring the authentic taste of Kerala puttu to your table. Whether it's breakfast or a snack, rice puttu is sure to be a favourite in your culinary repertoire.