Discover the art of crafting the perfect Puttu, a beloved South Indian steamed dish, with this easy-to-follow recipe guide. From selecting the right ingredients to mastering the technique, this post will walk you through five essential steps to achieve culinary perfection with Puttu.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
The base of Puttu lies in the quality of its ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Rice Flour - Preferably roasted for added flavor
- Water - For hydrating the flour
- Salt - To taste
- Grated Coconut - Fresh or desiccated
- Puttu Maker - A cylindrical steamer pot or puttu kutti
🌟 Note: Using fresh coconut is preferred for an authentic taste, but desiccated coconut can be used as a substitute in a pinch.
Step 2: Prepare the Rice Flour
Rice flour is key to Puttu’s texture. Here’s how to prepare it:
- Take about 2 cups of rice flour in a bowl.
- Add salt (to taste), typically around 1⁄2 to 1 teaspoon.
- Slowly mix in water until the flour resembles breadcrumbs:
- Sprinkle water little by little
- Knead the flour to achieve a moist, crumbly texture
- Rest for 10-15 minutes, then sift through a strainer to remove lumps.
🍚 Note: Ensure the flour is not wet but just moist enough to hold together when you clench it in your fist.
Step 3: Assemble the Puttu
The layering of Puttu involves:
- Fill the puttu maker’s base with water and steam it until you see steam rising.
- Layer the Puttu as follows:
- Grated coconut (1-2 tablespoons)
- Rice flour mixture
- Repeat the layers
- Close the maker tightly with the top piece or lid.
Step 4: Steam the Puttu
Once assembled, here’s how to steam it:
- Place the puttu maker on a stove over medium heat.
- Steam for about 8-10 minutes.
- The Puttu is ready when you see steam escaping through the holes of the maker.
⏱️ Note: Timing can vary based on the amount of Puttu and the heat intensity. Monitor it closely to prevent over-steaming.
Step 5: Serve with Accompaniments
Puttu is traditionally served with:
- Chickpea curry (Kadala Curry)
- Banana
- Sugar for sweet flavor
- Palm sugar syrup or ghee for a richer taste
The Puttu’s unique texture pairs wonderfully with these accompaniments, enhancing its flavor profile.
To master the art of Puttu, you need patience, practice, and an understanding of its traditional roots. This guide will surely put you on the right track to create not just a dish, but a culinary experience that celebrates South Indian cuisine. From the selection of quality rice flour to the perfect steaming technique, each step is crafted to deliver a fragrant and delectable Puttu, true to its authentic taste. Remember, while the recipe might look simple, the nuances make all the difference. Happy cooking!
What is the best type of rice flour for Puttu?
+
Roasted rice flour specifically designed for Puttu gives the best results in terms of flavor and texture. Look for Puttu Podi or Puttu flour in Indian grocery stores.
Can I make Puttu without a traditional Puttu maker?
+
Yes, you can use a makeshift steamer or even a bamboo steamer lined with a cloth to make Puttu. However, the texture might differ slightly from the traditional one.
How do I store leftover Puttu?
+
Store leftover Puttu in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat by steaming again, to restore its texture.
