Ammini Kozhukattai: Bite-Sized Steamed Rice Balls with a Zesty Tempering
1 hour 20 minutes
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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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See the 30-Day PlanRecipe Time & More
Prep1 hour
Cook20 minutes
Total1 hour 20 minutes
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 2 cup Rice Flour
- 2 tsp Oil
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 cup Water or as needed
For the Tempering
- 2 tbsp Pigeon Pea split pigeon peas
- 2 tbsp Chickpea split chickpeas
- 1 tbsp Lentil black, split black lentils
- 4-5 Chili dried, red
- 2 tbsp Oil for tempering
- 1/2 tsp Asafoetida hing
- 1 tsp Mustard Seed rai
- 8-10 Curry Leaf for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine the rice flour, 2 teaspoons of oil, and salt.
- 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.
- 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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Recipe Nutrition
Calories: 348kcalCarbohydrates: 71gProtein: 12gFat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.3gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.6gFiber: 5gSugar: 1g
Subhashni Venkatesh
Articles: 165
5 Comments
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What a delightful recipe! Thanks for sharing.
Absolutely mouthwatering! Great share.
This is awesome! Can’t wait to cook it.
I’m excited to try this recipe!
What a delicious idea! Thanks for sharing.