Puttu is a traditional South Indian breakfast dish that has garnered a loving fanbase across the Indian subcontinent for its unique texture and delightful taste. This irresistible steamed rice cake, often accompanied by coconut and banana, can be made easily with a pressure cooker. In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the history of puttu, its unique preparation techniques, and the step-by-step method to cook delicious puttu using a pressure cooker, ensuring perfect results every time.
The History and Significance of Puttu
Puttu is believed to have originated in the state of Kerala, India, and is a staple breakfast item in many South Indian households. Traditionally, it consists of rice flour mixed with grated coconut, which is then steamed in cylindrical molds. This humble dish not only provides nutrition but also connects people with their cultural roots.
In addition to its delightful taste, the preparation of puttu involves an art that has been passed down through generations. The soft, fluffy texture of good puttu is a hallmark of a skilled cook. Puttu serves as an ideal base for various savory and sweet accompaniments, making it quite versatile.
Essential Ingredients for Puttu
To create the perfect puttu, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups of rice flour: Opt for fine rice flour for the best texture.
- 1 cup of grated coconut: Freshly grated coconut enhances flavor.
- Salt to taste: This adds a necessary contrast to the sweetness of coconut.
- Water: As needed to bind the rice flour.
- Optional ingredients: Cardamom powder, jaggery, or sugar to add sweetness and flavor.
Key Equipment Needed
While the ingredients are essential, the right equipment is equally important for a successful puttu experience. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Pressure cooker: For this method, any standard pressure cooker will do.
- Puttu maker: This is a cylindrical steamer available in stainless steel or aluminum.
- Mixing bowl: To mix and prepare the puttu flour.
- Grater: For grating fresh coconut.
Preparing the Puttu Mix
Preparing the puttu mix is the first and critical step in cooking puttu. Below is a simple method to prepare the mixture:
Step 1: Mixing the Ingredients
- In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of rice flour and 1 cup of grated coconut.
- Add a pinch of salt to the mixture.
- Gradually add water, a few tablespoons at a time, and knead the flour until it reaches a crumbly yet moist consistency. You should be able to form small balls that hold their shape but are not too wet or sticky.
Step 2: Preparing the Puttu Maker
- Take your puttu maker and assemble it as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Before adding the batter, layer the bottom with a small amount of grated coconut.
- Next, fill the cylindrical mold with the prepared puttu mixture, alternating layers of puttu batter and grated coconut. The top layer should be coconut.
Cooking Puttu in a Pressure Cooker
Cooking puttu in a pressure cooker may sound unconventional, but it yields excellent results. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Preparing the Pressure Cooker
- Pour 2 to 3 cups of water into the pressure cooker. The water level must be below the bottom of the puttu maker.
- Place a steaming rack or a trivet inside the pressure cooker. This will prevent direct contact of the puttu maker with boiling water.
Step 2: Steaming the Puttu
- Once the water begins to boil, carefully place the filled puttu maker on the steaming rack in the pressure cooker.
- Close the lid of the pressure cooker but do not place the weight on the vent. The steam should escape freely.
- Let the puttu steam for about 10-15 minutes. You’ll start seeing steam escaping from the sides, indicating that it is cooking properly.
Step 3: Serving the Puttu
- After 15 minutes, carefully remove the pressure cooker lid. Use a cloth or oven mitt to handle the hot puttu maker.
- Allow it to cool for a minute, then gently push out the puttu onto a plate. It should slide out easily and retain its cylindrical shape.
- Serve hot, accompanied by grated coconut, banana, or a sweetened option like jaggery or sugar for a delightful breakfast experience.
Tips for Perfect Puttu Every Time
Here are some practical tips to elevate your puttu-making skills:
Tip 1: Selecting the Right Rice Flour
Using finely ground rice flour is crucial for obtaining a light, airy texture. Coarser flour can lead to dense puttu. You may consider making your own rice flour by soaking and drying rice, followed by grinding it to a fine powder.
Tip 2: Adjusting Water Content
The dough should be moist but not too wet. Over-watering can result in an undesirable texture. The best way to check is to mix and squeeze a handful of dough; it should hold together without crumbling.
Tip 3: Experimenting with Flavors
While the classic recipe is delicious, don’t hesitate to experiment with other flavors. Cardamom and nuts can be added to the flour mix for an exotic twist. For a savory version, spices and vegetables can be included in the layering.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While cooking puttu may seem straightforward, there are a few common pitfalls to be aware of:
Mistake 1: Incorrect Water Levels
Insufficient water in the pressure cooker can lead to undercooked puttu, while too much water can make the puttu soggy. Always keep an eye on the water level during cooking.
Mistake 2: Not Allowing Enough Steaming Time
Rushing the cooking time can result in a dense and hard puttu. Make sure to adhere to the recommended steaming times for the best results.
Health Benefits of Puttu
Beyond its tantalizing taste, puttu offers several health benefits:
Low in Calories
Puttu is not only low in calories but is also filling, making it an excellent choice for breakfast.
Rich in Fiber
Made mainly from rice and coconut, puttu is a good source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and keeps you full longer.
Versatile Nutritional Options
You can incorporate various nutritious add-ons like fruits, nuts, or even legumes to enhance its nutritional profile, creating a wholesome meal.
Conclusion: Embrace the Tradition of Puttu Cooking
Cooking puttu in a pressure cooker not only simplifies the traditional method but also allows everyone to enjoy this delectable breakfast item without any hassle. Whether served sweet or savory, puttu caters to various palates and can be adjusted according to personal preferences. With a bit of practice, you can master the art of making perfect soft and fluffy puttu.
Armed with this guide, you’re now ready to impress family and friends with your culinary skills. So, gather your ingredients, fire up that pressure cooker, and enjoy the wonderful journey of making this delightful dish. Embrace the warmth of tradition, and let puttu be a comforting part of your family’s breakfast table. Happy cooking!
What is puttu, and how is it traditionally made?
Puttu is a traditional South Indian dish made from rice flour and coconut, often served as a breakfast item. Traditionally, it is cooked in a cylindrical mold called a puttu kutti, placed over boiling water, allowing the steam to cook the layered mixture of flour and grated coconut. The end result is a soft, fluffy dish that can be enjoyed with various accompaniments such as banana, sugar, or coconut milk.
In its traditional preparation, the rice flour is usually soaked, and sometimes steamed before mixing it with coconut. The blend is then layered in the mold with more coconut before steaming. While this method requires careful attention to the timing and water levels, using a pressure cooker simplifies the process while retaining the authentic flavor and texture of puttu.
Can I use a pressure cooker to make puttu?
Yes, using a pressure cooker is a convenient way to make puttu. It saves time and ensures that the steaming process is efficient, resulting in perfectly cooked puttu without the need for a specialized puttu kutti. For this method, you can use the steamer basket of the pressure cooker or create a makeshift steaming setup using a heatproof bowl. Just remember to add water to the cooker before sealing it.
When making puttu in a pressure cooker, it’s essential to control the steam and avoid overcooking. You will want to keep a close watch on the process, ensuring the water doesn’t evaporate completely while the puttu is steaming. Typically, 10 to 12 minutes should suffice for this method.
What ingredients do I need to prepare puttu in a pressure cooker?
To prepare puttu in a pressure cooker, the primary ingredients are rice flour and grated coconut. It’s advisable to use freshly grated coconut for the best flavor, although dried coconut can work in a pinch. Besides these main ingredients, you can also add salt to taste, and some prefer to add a sweetener like sugar or jaggery depending on how they plan to serve the dish.
For a more flavorful experience, you can include spices like cardamom or even a pinch of turmeric for color. Additionally, you might want to serve your puttu with side dishes such as roasted chickpeas, curry, or even a sweetened coconut milk sauce to complement the dish.
How do I layer the puttu mixture in the pressure cooker?
Layering the puttu mixture correctly is crucial for achieving that fluffy texture. Start with a layer of rice flour at the bottom of your steaming setup, followed by a layer of grated coconut. Alternate between the flour and coconut until you reach the top, ensuring the last layer is coconut. This layering process helps the steam to evenly penetrate the mixture, promoting proper cooking.
Make sure not to overpack the layers, as this can hinder the steam from circulating properly. Leaving some space for air will allow the puttu to rise and cook evenly, resulting in the light and fluffy texture that puttu is known for.
How long does it take to cook puttu in a pressure cooker?
When cooking puttu in a pressure cooker, the steaming process generally takes about 10 to 12 minutes once the water has started boiling. The timing can vary slightly depending on the quantity you are preparing and the specific pressure cooker model. It’s important not to use the pressure function; instead, steam the puttu without sealing the cooker fully.
After the steam cooking time, allow the pressure cooker to release naturally for a few minutes before opening it. Expediting the process by force-opening the cooker can result in uneven cooking, compromising the texture of the puttu.
What are some common side dishes for puttu?
Puttu can be enjoyed with a variety of side dishes, catering to both savory and sweet preferences. Common accompaniments include ripe bananas, sugar, or jaggery for those who lean towards the sweet flavor profile. For a more savory experience, you can pair puttu with curries, particularly meat or vegetable curries, which add a delightful contrast to the dish.
Another popular side dish is kadala curry, made from black chickpeas, which is a favorite in many South Indian households. Coconut milk is also an excellent accompaniment, either plain or slightly sweetened, adding richness to the overall meal. The versatility of puttu allows it to be adapted to different taste preferences and regional variations.
Can I make puttu using other types of flour?
While traditional puttu is made from rice flour, variations using alternative flours have become popular. You can experiment with whole wheat flour, millet flour, or even ragi (finger millet) flour to create healthier versions of puttu. Each type of flour brings its unique flavor and nutritional profile, allowing for diverse culinary experiences.
When using different flours, it’s essential to adjust the water content accordingly, as each flour absorbs moisture differently. You may need to experiment with the proportions to find the right balance for a fluffy texture while ensuring the dish retains its classic characteristics.