Puttu is a traditional South Indian dish that is not only wholesome but also easy to prepare. This steamed rice cake is a breakfast favorite, particularly in Kerala, and is often served with various accompaniments like bananas, coconut milk, or sugar. If you’re looking for an effective way to make this delicious dish, using a pressure cooker is a fantastic option that saves both time and effort. In this comprehensive article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about making puttu in a pressure cooker.
What is Puttu?
Puttu is made primarily from rice flour and grated coconut, resulting in a fluffy, layered dish with a delightful texture and flavor. The preparation of puttu varies regionally, with some variations using different types of flour such as wheat and millet.
Key Ingredients:
– Rice flour
– Grated coconut
– Salt
– Water
Each bite of puttu delivers a satisfying taste that can be paired beautifully with several traditional side dishes, making it a versatile breakfast option.
Why Use a Pressure Cooker?
Using a pressure cooker to prepare puttu has several advantages:
- Time Efficiency: Cooking time is significantly reduced, making it ideal for busy mornings.
- Uniform Cooking: A pressure cooker ensures even steaming, resulting in perfectly cooked puttu.
Now that we understand the value of using a pressure cooker, let’s dive into the detailed process of making puttu.
Ingredients Required
To make puttu in a pressure cooker, gather the following ingredients:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rice flour | 2 cups |
| Grated coconut | 1 cup |
| Salt | 1/4 tsp |
| Water | As required (approximately 1/2 cup) |
Preparing the Puttu Mixture
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rice flour and salt thoroughly. This step is crucial as it ensures the salt is evenly distributed.
Step 2: Gradually Add Water
Slowly add water to the mixture while stirring. The goal is to achieve a crumbly texture; it should not be wet or sticky. The water should be just enough to allow the flour to hold together when squeezed.
Important Note: Avoid adding too much water at once. It’s better to add a little and adjust as needed.
Step 3: Incorporate Grated Coconut
Once you achieve the right texture, mix grated coconut into the batch. This ingredient not only imparts flavor but also adds moisture to the mixture. Ensure that the coconut is evenly distributed throughout the flour.
Setting Up the Pressure Cooker
Step 4: Prepare the Pressure Cooker
Before you begin cooking, prepare your pressure cooker:
- Add about 1 to 1.5 cups of water to the cooker.
- Place a steamer insert or an old perforated plate inside the pressure cooker.
This setup ensures that your puttu will be steamed rather than boiled, preserving its unique texture.
Step 5: Layering the Puttu
You will need a puttu maker (a cylindrical steamer). If you don’t have one, you can craft a simple version using a bowl and a lid. Here’s how to layer:
- Add a layer of grated coconut at the bottom of the puttu maker.
- Follow it with a layer of the rice flour mixture.
- Repeat this layering until the puttu maker is almost full, leaving some space for the steam to circulate.
- Finish with a final layer of grated coconut on top.
This layering technique is essential as it allows the steam to penetrate through the mixture.
Cooking the Puttu
Step 6: Steam the Puttu
- Secure the top of the puttu maker and place it in the pressure cooker.
- Close the lid of the cooker but do not place the pressure valve on. We want to steam, not pressure-cook.
- Turn the heat up to medium and allow it to cook for about 10-12 minutes.
You will know it’s done when you see steam escaping from the top, and a delightful aroma fills the air.
Step 7: Serve the Puttu
Once cooked, carefully remove the puttu maker from the pressure cooker. Let it cool for a minute or so before removing the lid. You can gently tap or push from the bottom to release the puttu.
Serve it hot with your choice of bananas, sugar, coconut milk, or spicy curries.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making puttu may seem straightforward, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for:
- Too Much Water: Adding excessive water can turn your puttu into a paste rather than a fluffy cake. Always add water incrementally.
- Pressure Cooking: Placing the pressure valve on during cooking will lead to overcooking. Always steam it gently.
Variations of Puttu
There are diverse ways to make puttu, depending on your taste preferences:
Puttu with Pulses
For a protein boost, add cooked moong dal or chana dal to the mixture and layer it with the coconut and rice flour.
Sweet Puttu
Mix in jaggery with the grated coconut for a sweet variation. This version is particularly popular during festive seasons.
Vegetable Puttu
Incorporate finely chopped steamed vegetables like carrots, beans, or even spinach for a nutritious twist.
Conclusion
Making puttu in a pressure cooker is not only efficient but also remarkably easy. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create this sumptuous dish that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack. Remember to play around with different ingredients to find the combinations that you enjoy the most!
Next time you’re craving a quick yet satisfying meal, try your hand at puttu. Embrace the delightful experience of its soft layers, and before long, you’ll have mastered the art of crafting this traditional delight right in your kitchen! Happy cooking!
What is Puttu and how is it traditionally prepared?
Puttu is a popular South Indian breakfast dish made from rice flour and coconut. Traditionally, it is steamed in a special cylindrical container that resembles a small tube. The process involves layering the rice flour with grated coconut, allowing the steam to cook it through, resulting in a soft, fluffy texture. This dish is often enjoyed with various side dishes like banana, sugar, or even savory curries.
In many traditional households, making puttu is an art passed down through generations. The meticulous layering of ingredients and precise steaming give puttu its characteristic taste and texture. While the traditional method utilizes a bamboo or steel puttu maker, this article will demonstrate how to make delightful puttu using a pressure cooker, making the process simpler and quicker while retaining the authentic flavor.
Can I make Puttu in a pressure cooker?
Yes, you can make puttu in a pressure cooker! The pressure cooker is an excellent alternative for steaming puttu, as it provides consistent heat and moisture, which are essential for achieving the perfect texture. With the right setup and method, you can enjoy soft and fluffy puttu without needing specialized equipment.
To adapt the traditional method to a pressure cooker, you’ll need to prepare the puttu mix and layer it in a way that allows steam to circulate effectively. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring that you can replicate the delightful flavors of this beloved dish without any hassle.
What ingredients do I need to make Puttu?
The basic ingredients for making puttu are rice flour and grated coconut. You can use store-bought rice flour or make your own by grinding soaked rice. The ratio is typically about two cups of rice flour to one cup of grated coconut. Additionally, you may require water to moisten the flour, as well as optional ingredients such as sugar or jaggery for a sweet variant.
If you want to experiment with flavors, you can also include spices or flavored coconut. For instance, adding cardamom or saffron can enhance the overall taste. The beauty of puttu lies in its versatility—feel free to customize it according to your preferences!
Do I need to soak the rice flour before using it?
No, soaking the rice flour is not necessary for making puttu. Unlike other dishes that require the rice flour to be soaked for longer periods, puttu can be prepared using dry rice flour. However, it is crucial to moisten the flour adequately before steaming, which helps in achieving the desired consistency and prevents it from becoming too dry or crumbly.
If you prefer a softer texture, you can lightly sprinkle water over the flour and let it rest for a few minutes before mixing in the coconut. This step helps create little lumps in the flour, which contributes to the fluffiness of the final dish when steamed.
What can I serve with Puttu?
Puttu can be served with a variety of sides, making it a versatile dish. Traditionally, it pairs wonderfully with banana and sugar, creating a delightful sweet combination. You can simply slice a ripe banana and sprinkle sugar over it for a quick and tasty side dish. Alternatively, grated coconut can also be enjoyed with a drizzle of honey.
For a savory option, you can serve puttu alongside curries or stews such as kadala curry (black chickpea curry) or any vegetable curry. These flavorful accompaniments balance the mild taste of puttu and create a satisfying meal. The combinations are endless, so feel free to explore different pairings that suit your palate.
How long does it take to make Puttu in a pressure cooker?
Making puttu in a pressure cooker is quite efficient. On average, the entire process takes about 20 to 30 minutes from start to finish. This includes the time required to prepare the mixture, layer it in the cooking vessel, and steam it in the pressure cooker. The actual steaming process usually takes around 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the layers and the heat setting.
It’s essential to keep an eye on the time to ensure that the puttu is cooked properly, as overcooking can make it dry. By following the step-by-step instructions, you can streamline the process and enjoy a delicious and warm dish in no time.
Can I make variations of Puttu?
Yes, you can definitely make several variations of puttu to suit your taste preferences. While the classic version uses plain rice flour and coconut, you can experiment with different types of flour, such as wheat flour or millet flour, for added nutritional benefits. Additionally, you can incorporate other flavors like cocoa powder for a chocolate variant or add dried fruits and nuts for extra texture and taste.
Incorporating spices is also a great way to enhance the flavor profile of puttu. Spices like cardamom or nutmeg can lend a nice aroma, making the dish even more delightful. Don’t be afraid to get creative—the beauty of puttu lies in its adaptability!
What are some common mistakes to avoid when making Puttu?
One common mistake when making puttu is not moisten the rice flour adequately. If the flour is too dry, it will not cook properly and may end up crumbly or dense rather than soft and fluffy. Be sure to gradually sprinkle water over the flour, mixing it until you achieve a consistency that holds together lightly without being too wet.
Another mistake is overfilling the pressure cooker or the steaming vessel with the puttu mixture. This can inhibit proper steaming and lead to uneven cooking. It is important to layer the mixture gently and allow enough space for steam to circulate freely during the cooking process, which will help you achieve the perfect puttu every time.