Ammini Kozhukattai: Bite-Sized Steamed Rice Balls with a Zesty Tempering

1 hour 20 minutes

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4.20 from 5 votes

About Ammini Kozhukattai: Bite-Sized Steamed Rice Balls with a Zesty Tempering

Imagine sinking your teeth into pillowy-soft, bite-sized dumplings bursting with aromatic South Indian spices. These Ammini Kozhukattai, steamed to perfection and tossed in a flavorful lentil tempering, are more than just a snack—they're an experience.
These savory little wonders are surprisingly healthy and satisfying, perfect for a light meal or an evening treat. Made traditionally with leftover rice dough, they offer a delightful balance of soft textures and bold, savory flavors.
Easy to prepare and incredibly versatile, Ammini Kozhukattai are a testament to the ingenuity and delicious simplicity of South Indian cuisine. Discover the joy of this flavorful snack and transport your taste buds today!
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Recipe Time & More

Prep1 hour
Cook20 minutes
Total1 hour 20 minutes
Calories348 kcal
Serves3
Served AsSnacks
Recipe TasteCrunchySpicy

Ingredients
 

For the Dough

For the Tempering

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Instructions
 

  • In a bowl, combine the rice flour, 2 teaspoons of oil, and salt.
    Ammini Kozhukattai: Bite-Sized Steamed Rice Balls with a Zesty Tempering - Plattershare - Recipes, food stories and food lovers
  • Gradually add water to the rice flour mixture, stirring continuously to form a smooth, pourable batter. Avoid lumps.
  • Heat a wok or large pan over medium heat. Pour the batter into the hot pan and stir constantly. This helps cook the flour and create a dough-like consistency.
  • Continue stirring for about 5 minutes, or until the batter thickens and forms a dough. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
  • While the dough cools, soak the toor dal, chana dal, urad dal, and dried red chilies in warm water for 1 hour. This softens the lentils for grinding.
  • Once soaked, drain the lentils and chilies. Grind them into a coarse paste without adding any extra water. The texture should be similar to a vada batter.
    Ammini Kozhukattai: Bite-Sized Steamed Rice Balls with a Zesty Tempering - Plattershare - Recipes, food stories and food lovers
  • Lightly grease your palms with oil. Take small portions of the cooled rice dough and shape them into tiny balls.
  • Steam the rice balls for 15 minutes until they are cooked through and fluffy. Set aside.
  • Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds and let them splutter. This releases their nutty aroma.
  • Add the asafoetida powder and sauté briefly. Asafoetida adds a unique savory depth to the tempering.
  • Add the ground lentil paste to the pan and stir well. Cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until the paste dries slightly and separates.
  • Gently add the steamed rice balls to the pan and mix them with the tempered lentil mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
  • Garnish with fresh curry leaves for a final burst of flavor and aroma.

Recipe Notes

Good To Know

  • For added color and nutrition, mix finely grated carrots, spinach, or beetroot into the rice flour dough before shaping the balls.
  • If you prefer extra crunch, add a tablespoon of roasted, coarsely crushed peanuts or cashews to the tempering.
  • To prevent the rice balls from drying out after steaming, transfer them immediately to the tempered pan and toss gently to coat evenly, ensuring they remain soft and flavorful.
  • Serve the Ammini Kozhukattai with a side of coconut chutney or spicy tomato chutney for an elevated snacking experience.

Expert Tips

  • For a richer flavor, use freshly grated coconut for both the dough and the tempering.
  • Don't overcrowd the steamer; ensure enough space between the rice balls for even cooking.
  • Adjust the consistency of the dough by adding water gradually. It should be soft and pliable but not sticky.

Storage Instructions

  • Store leftover Ammini Kozhukattai in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Gently reheat in a steamer or microwave before serving.
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Please appreciate the author by voting!

4.20 from 5 votes

Recipe Nutrition

Calories: 348kcalCarbohydrates: 71gProtein: 12gFat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.3gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.6gFiber: 5gSugar: 1g

Subhashni Venkatesh
Subhashni Venkatesh

I am a native of Kanyakumari district, brought up in Tiruchirapalli, and settled in Tirunelveli. I started exploring cooking at the age of 15 and learned a variety of recipes from my two grandmothers, friends, aunts, mother, and mother-in-law.

Cooking is, of course, my passion. I work as a teacher, and my colleagues love to receive recipes and tips from me, just as I enjoy learning from them. My son and husband encourage me to experiment with and innovate new dishes."

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4.20 from 5 votes

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