Kozhukatta/ Steamed sweet dumpling(Serves 5)

VINAYAKA CHATHURTHI SPECIAL

Happy Vinayaka Chaturthi to all our dear readers..This year’s Vinayaka Chathurthi falls on Saturday September 11 th. May Lord Ganesha bring  peace of mind and joy into our abodes and minds.  This post  is a humble tribute to Vinayaka and details the recipe of  Kozukatta, which in is almost synonymous with ‘Modaka”, Lord Ganesha’s favorite offering. Esoterically it symbolizes ‘siddi’ (fulfillment) and absolute joy. Hope you enjoy both as you try this offering.

Kozukatta is also a very healthy , steamed, delicacy which was, until recently, a favorite snack of Malayalees. The onslaught of fast food and packed “Bakery” items has almost relegated this snack to some thing that can be seen only on special religious occasions.  The nostalgic memories of my school days are embellished with vague screams of “ I am hungry” as I run home from the school bus to find this warm, steaming snack and  tea waiting for me, their taste heightened with amma’s smile…..

The recipe courtesy goes to Maya and Lakshmi, the brain and beauties behind one of our favorite blogs Yummy O Yummy.

Rice flour 1 cup (used puttu podi)
Grated coconut ¾ cup
Jaggery ¼ cup, melted
Cumin seeds ¼ tsp
Salt as needed
Boiling Water as required

Preparation

Melt the jaggery at medium heat with little water and once it forms a thick syrup, mix the coconut with it. Stir well and when the mixture becomes dry, switch off the flame. Set aside.

Mix cumin seeds with rice flour. Bring water to rolling boil, add salt. Now add water little by little to the rice flour until it forms to a dough,stirring continuously using a wooden spatula. Allow this to cool for some time and knead well with your hands. Make medium to large sized balls with the dough. Flatten each of them with your palm and fill with a tablespoon or two of the coconut jaggery mixture. Work from all sides and seal to make a ball. Repeat the same with the rest of the dough. Steam cook for 20-30 minutes in an idli cooker or steamer. Serve warm…