CHOLAM PUTTU

cholam puttu:

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the cholam flour, grated coconut, salt, and jaggery or sugar (if using). Mix well to ensure even distribution of ingredients.

2. Slowly add warm water to the mixture, a little at a time, while continuously mixing with your hands. Keep adding water until the mixture becomes damp and holds together when pressed, but is not overly wet. The texture should be crumbly.

3. Once the mixture reaches the right consistency, allow it to rest for about 5-10 minutes. This helps the flour absorb the moisture evenly.

4. Meanwhile, prepare your steamer by boiling water in the bottom pot.

5. Fill the cylindrical or cone-shaped puttu maker/mould with alternating layers of the prepared cholam mixture and grated coconut. You can start and end with grated coconut if you prefer.

6. Once the water in the steamer is boiling, place the filled puttu mould on top of it and steam for about 10-15 minutes, or until the puttu is cooked through. You'll notice steam escaping from the top vents of the puttu maker when it's done.

7. Carefully remove the puttu mould from the steamer and gently push the puttu out onto a plate.

8. Serve the cholam puttu hot with accompaniments like ripe banana slices, kadala curry, or a dollop of ghee.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cholam (sorghum) flour
• 1/2 cup grated coconut
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• Warm water, as needed (about 1/2 to 3/4 cup)
• Optional: 1-2 tablespoons of jaggery or sugar (if you prefer it sweeter)

Cholam Puttu, made with Sorghum Millet, offers nutritional benefits with approximately 339 calories, 72g of carbohydrates, 6.7g of protein, and 3.5g of fiber per 100 grams. Rich in essential nutrients like iron, calcium, and phosphorus, it promotes overall health. Choosing Cholam Puttu as a dietary option not only provides a wholesome source of energy but also contributes to potential savings, as Sorghum Millet is often more cost-effective compared to some other grains, making it an economical and nutritious choice per person.

To prepare Cholam Puttu using Sorghum Millet:

Mixing: Combine Sorghum Millet flour with a pinch of salt, and water as needed to create a crumbly texture.

Layering: Alternate layers of the millet mixture with grated coconut in a Puttu maker or cylindrical vessel.

Steaming: Steam the layers until cooked, typically 10-15 minutes. Serving: Once done, gently press out the steamed mixture, creating cylindrical shapes. Serve Cholam Puttu warm with accompaniments like coconut, jaggery, or curry for a wholesome and nutritious meal or snack. Adjust consistency and seasoning according to taste preference.