Kalathappam is a traditional sweet snack from Malabar, featuring rice, jaggery, and cardamom as the main ingredients, with onions and coconut pieces fried in ghee as toppings, creating an exotic flavor.

Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1cupraw rice
- 1 1/2tbspsteamed rice
- 3piececardamom
- 1/2tspcumin seeds
- 6pieceshallots
- 1/4cupcoconut pieces
- 2tbspsugar
- 1pinchsalt
- 2tbspghee
- 1/4tspbaking soda
For Jaggery Syrup
- 1cupjaggery powder
- 1/4cupwater
How to make Kalathappam
Preparation
Soak the rice in hot water (little hotter than luke warm water) for 1 hour.
Boil jaggery and water until the jaggery completely melts. Then strain it and keep aside.
After 1 hour, drain the soaked rice.
Transfer the rice to a mixer jar along with steamed rice, cardamom, cumin seeds, and salt. Grind to a fine paste by adding 1/2 cup of water.
Add the paste to a bowl. Add prepared jaggery syrup, sugar, and baking soda. Mix well.
Cooking
Heat a pan and add ghee. When it becomes hot, add sliced shallots and coconut pieces. Fry until golden brown.
Then Pour the prepared batter into the pan. Don't stir it after that.
Reduce the heat to low and cover with a lid that has a small hole, or cook in a pressure cooker without the whistle.
Cook on low flame for 15-20 minutes.
Turn off the flame and let it cool down in the same pan.
Transfer to a serving plate.
Tips & Tricks
Use a lid with a small hole to allow steam to escape, ensuring even cooking.
Add grated coconut to the batter if you like.
FAQS
How do I store leftover Kalathappam?
To store leftover Kalathappam, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it, where it can last for up to a month.
Can I make Kalathappam gluten-free?
Yes, Kalathappam is naturally gluten-free as it primarily uses rice and jaggery. Just ensure that all your ingredients, especially the ghee and any additional toppings, are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
What can I substitute for jaggery in Kalathappam?
If you don't have jaggery, you can substitute it with brown sugar or coconut sugar. However, keep in mind that the flavor may vary slightly, as jaggery has a unique taste that contributes to the traditional flavor of Kalathappam.
What are some good pairings for Kalathappam?
Kalathappam pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee, making it a perfect snack for afternoon breaks. You can also serve it with a side of coconut chutney or a dollop of yogurt for a delightful contrast in flavors.
What is the cooking process for Kalathappam?
The cooking process for Kalathappam involves soaking rice, preparing a jaggery syrup, grinding the soaked rice with spices, and then cooking the batter in a pan with fried shallots and coconut. It is essential to cook it on low heat for 15-20 minutes to achieve the right texture.
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Gayatri
(@rene121)
Cooking is my passion. Flavours unite us 🤝..I love to create new recipes... and also love to learn about different cuisine. Cooking is my passion. Flavours unite us 🤝..I love to create new recipes... and also love to learn about different cuisine. ...
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