Traditional Andhra-style Kudumulu Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 cups Rice Flour
  • 1 cup Water
  • 1 tablespoon Ghee
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 cup Grated Jaggery
  • 1 cup Freshly Grated Coconut
  • 1 tablespoon Sesame Seeds

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix the rice flour and salt together.
  2. Heat the ghee in a pan, add the water to it and bring it to a boil.
  3. Slowly add the boiling water to the rice flour and mix well. Let it cool for a few minutes.
  4. Once the mixture is cool enough to handle, knead it into a soft dough. If needed, add a bit more water.
  5. Take a small portion of the dough, roll it into a ball and then flatten it with your palms to form a disc.
  6. In another bowl, mix the grated jaggery, coconut and sesame seeds together to make the filling.
  7. Place a spoonful of this filling in the center of the disc, fold the disc to enclose the filling and seal the edges by pinching them.
  8. Repeat this process until all the dough and filling are used up.
  9. Place the prepared Kudumulu on a steamer and steam them for 15-20 minutes or until they are cooked through.
  10. Remove from the heat and let them cool before serving.

Tools for making

  • Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to mix the rice flour and salt.
  • Pan - To heat the ghee and water.
  • Steamer - To steam the Kudumulu.
  • Rolling Pin - To roll the dough into discs.
  • Spoon - To mix the filling ingredients.

Recipe variations

  • Replace rice flour with wheat flour for a different texture.
  • Add mashed bananas or grated carrots to the filling for a fruity or veggie twist.
  • Use brown sugar or honey instead of jaggery for a different sweetness.
  • Add chopped nuts like almonds or cashews to the filling for added crunch.
  • Include cardamom powder or cinnamon powder to the dough for a hint of spice.
  • Make a savory version by substituting the sweet filling with spiced mashed potatoes or a mixture of grated vegetables.
  • Add a teaspoon of turmeric powder to the dough for a vibrant yellow color.
  • Replace ghee with oil for a vegan option.
  • Experiment with different fillings such as chocolate chips, dried fruits, or even a combination of grated cheese and herbs.
  • Add a teaspoon of baking powder to the dough for a lighter and fluffier texture.

Recipe overview

Kudumulu is a traditional Indian sweet dumpling made with rice flour, jaggery, ghee and freshly grated coconut. This delightful recipe originates from the southern part of India and is particularly popular during festive seasons. This recipe requires minimal ingredients and the steps are simple to follow. The end result is a delicately sweet, coconut and jaggery filled dumpling that's steamed to perfection. The dough is made from rice flour and ghee, which encases a sweet filling, creating a wonderful balance of flavors. The Kudumulu is then steamed until cooked through, resulting in a soft and delightful treat. This recipe offers a wonderful culinary experience and a taste of Indian tradition. Enjoy it as a dessert or a snack! Perfect for those who love trying unique, international dishes.

Common questions

  1. How long does it take to cook Kudumulu?
    Kudumulu typically take around 15-20 minutes to cook through when steamed.
  2. Can I use store-bought rice flour?
    Yes, you can use store-bought rice flour for this recipe.
  3. Can I substitute the jaggery with sugar?
    Yes, you can substitute jaggery with sugar, but the flavor and texture of the filling will be slightly different.
  4. Can I make the dough in advance?
    It is best to make the dough fresh as it can dry out and become difficult to work with if prepared in advance.
  5. Can I add any other ingredients to the filling?
    While the traditional filling includes jaggery, coconut, and sesame seeds, you can experiment with adding other ingredients like nuts or cardamom powder for extra flavor.
  6. Can I deep fry the Kudumulu instead of steaming?
    No, Kudumulu are traditionally steamed and frying them will result in a different texture and taste.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to mix the rice flour and other ingredients.
  • Pan - To heat the ghee and water for the dough.
  • Steamer - To steam the Kudumulu until they are cooked through.
  • Spoon or Spatula - To mix the filling and to help in shaping and sealing the Kudumulu.

Origin stories

Kudumulu, a traditional Indian delicacy, hails from the Southern regions of India and is particularly significant in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. This sweet treat is commonly prepared during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival, as an offering to Lord Ganesha. The intriguing part is the simplicity and the symbolism of Kudumulu. The round shape signifies a complete cycle, the essence of life and creation, while the sweet filling embodies the sweetness of life. The dish is so embedded in the cultural fabric of these regions that the preparation and the rituals accompanying it have been passed down through generations, making Kudumulu more than just a food item, but a cherished tradition.

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.