Authentic Andhra Undrallu Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Rice Rava (Coarsely ground rice)
  • 1/4 cup Chana Dal (Split chickpeas)
  • 1 tablespoon Ghee (Clarified butter)
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin Seeds
  • 2 Green Chillies
  • 1 teaspoon grated Ginger
  • 2 cups Water
  • Salt to taste

Steps and instructions

  1. Soak the Chana Dal in water for at least 1 hour.
  2. Heat the Ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan on medium flame.
  3. Add the Cumin seeds to the pan and wait for them to sizzle.
  4. Add the Green Chillies and Grated Ginger to the pan and sauté for a minute.
  5. Drain the Chana Dal and add it to the pan. Sauté for a couple of minutes until it turns golden brown.
  6. Add the Water and Salt to the pan and bring the mixture to a boil.
  7. Slowly add the Rice Rava to the boiling mixture while continuously stirring to avoid lumps.
  8. Reduce the flame to low, cover the pan, and let it cook for approximately 15-20 minutes or until the mixture becomes thick and the rice rava is cooked completely.
  9. Turn off the flame and let the mixture cool for a while.
  10. Once the mixture is cool enough to handle, divide it into equal portions and shape each portion into a round shaped ball (undrallu).
  11. Place these balls in a steamer and steam for 10-15 minutes.
  12. Remove the Undrallu from the steamer and let them cool. Serve warm.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Adding grated coconut or coconut milk to the mixture for a subtle coconut flavor.
  • Incorporating finely chopped vegetables like carrots, peas, or beans for added texture and nutrition.
  • Replacing rice rava with semolina (sooji) for a different texture.
  • Using a combination of different lentils like moong dal, toor dal, or urad dal instead of chana dal.
  • Adding finely chopped herbs like curry leaves, coriander leaves, or mint leaves for a fresh flavor.
  • Making sweet undrallu by adding jaggery or sugar to the mixture and steaming it with a hint of cardamom powder.
  • Stuffing the undrallu with a filling of your choice, such as spiced coconut or a mix of dry fruits and nuts.
  • Making a savory version by adding spices like turmeric powder, red chili powder, or garam masala.
  • Using different types of rava like wheat rava or broken wheat for a healthier twist.
  • Creating a fusion version by adding ingredients like grated cheese, jalapenos, or olives.

Recipe overview

Undrallu is a traditional South Indian delicacy often made during special occasions and festivals. This hearty dish is made primarily from Rice Rava (coarsely ground rice) and Chana Dal (split chickpeas), with added flavors from cumin seeds, green chillies, and grated ginger. The process involves cooking the rice rava with the other ingredients until they form a thick mixture, which is then shaped into round balls, or 'undrallu', and steamed to perfection. This recipe will guide you through each step of the process, from preparing the ingredients to the final steaming, ensuring that you can easily recreate this delicious dish at home. Expect a scrumptious warm treat with a mild kick from the chillies and a comforting aroma from the ghee and cumin. Enjoy it as a snack or a part of a festive meal!

Common questions

  1. Can I use regular rice instead of rice rava?
    Yes, you can use regular rice instead of rice rava. However, you will need to grind the rice coarsely before using it in the recipe.
  2. Can I substitute Chana Dal with any other lentils?
    No, Chana Dal is a key ingredient in this recipe and provides a distinct flavor and texture. It is recommended to use Chana Dal for authentic Undrallu.
  3. Can I use oil instead of ghee?
    Yes, you can use oil instead of ghee. However, ghee adds a rich flavor to the Undrallu, so using ghee is recommended if possible.
  4. Can I add more spices to the recipe?
    Undrallu have a mild and subtle flavor. However, if you prefer more spices, you can add some black pepper powder or red chili powder according to your taste.
  5. Can I steam the Undrallu without a steamer?
    If you don't have a steamer, you can use a makeshift steamer by placing a heatproof bowl or sieve over a pot of boiling water. Place the Undrallu on the bowl or sieve, cover, and steam as usual.
  6. How long can I store the Undrallu?
    Undrallu can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to mix the ingredients together.
  • Heavy-bottomed Pan - A sturdy pan to cook the Undrallu mixture.
  • Steamer - A utensil used for steaming the Undrallu.
  • Spatula - A kitchen tool used for stirring and mixing the ingredients.
  • Measuring Cup - A cup used to measure precise amounts of ingredients.
  • Knife - Used for chopping the green chillies and grating the ginger.
  • Grater - Used for grating the ginger.
  • Colander - Used for draining the soaked Chana Dal.

Origin stories

Undrallu is a traditional dish hailing from the southern states of India, widely relished during the festive occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi. The food is said to be one of the favorites of Lord Ganesha, and is therefore prepared with much enthusiasm and devotion during the festival to offer to the deity. The dish's unique texture and shape purport to symbolize the strong and rounded personality of Lord Ganesha. More than just a gastronomic delight, Undrallu thus holds a significant cultural and spiritual value to the people who prepare it, often evoking fond memories of family gatherings, shared laughter, and heartfelt prayers.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.