Tasty Evening Snack-Easy Pazham Kalathappam Recipe: How to Prepare

Kalathappam is a traditional snack that has been a part of Kerala’s culinary heritage for generations. While its preparation methods vary across regions, Kalathappam remains a crowd favorite for its rich taste and delightful texture. This version of Pazham Kalathappam, made with Kerala banana (nenthrapazham), is a quick and easy recipe perfect for serving as a tasty evening snack. Let’s explore the steps to prepare this flavorful dish by using this easy Pazham Kalathappam Recipe!

Ingredients of Pazham Kalathappam Recipe

For the Batter

• Raw rice: 1 cup (soaked for 3–4 hours; dosa rice or basmati rice works well).
• Scraped coconut: 2 tablespoons.
• Cooked rice: 2 tablespoons (any cooked rice can be used).
• Salt: ¼ tablespoon or as per taste.
• Cumin seeds: ½ tablespoon.
• Cardamom: 3 pods.
• Water: 1½ cups.

Additional Ingredients

• Kerala banana (nenthrapazham): Medium ripened, peeled, and chopped into small pieces.
• Coconut oil: 1 tablespoon.
• Coconut pieces: A small pinch, cut into tiny pieces.
• Shallots: 5–6, thinly sliced.
• Ghee: 1 tablespoon.
• Sugar: 1 tablespoon (optional, for extra sweetness).
• Jaggery powder: 1½ cups.
• Baking soda: ¼ tablespoon (add this at the very end).

Preparation Steps of Pazham Kalathappam

Step 1: Prepare the Rice Batter

1. Soak the Rice: Wash the raw rice thoroughly and soak it in water for 3–4 hours.
2. Blend the Batter: Drain the water completely from the soaked rice and transfer it to a blender. Add scraped coconut, cooked rice, salt, cumin seeds, and cardamom.
3. Grind to a Paste: Blend everything into a smooth paste, adding water gradually to achieve the desired consistency. The batter should be thick but pourable.

Step 2: Prepare the Jaggery Syrup

1. Melt the Jaggery: In a pan, add jaggery powder and a sufficient amount of water. Heat until the jaggery dissolves completely.
2. Strain the Syrup: Strain the melted jaggery to remove impurities and set it aside.
3. Combine: Mix the jaggery syrup into the prepared rice batter. Stir well to ensure a uniform mixture.

Step 3: Sauté the Toppings

1. Toast Coconut Pieces: Heat a pan and add 1 tablespoon of coconut oil. Add the small coconut pieces and sauté until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
2. Caramelize Bananas: In the same pan, add chopped bananas and 1 tablespoon of sugar (if using). Sauté until the bananas soften and develop a light caramelized coating. Remove and keep aside.
3. Fry Shallots: Add ghee to the pan and fry the thinly sliced shallots until they turn crispy. Set them aside.

Step 4: Combine and Finalize the Batter

1. Add Toppings to Batter: Mix the toasted coconut pieces, caramelized bananas, and fried shallots into the batter. Reserve a few for garnishing.
2. Incorporate Baking Soda: Add baking soda as the last ingredient. Stir the batter continuously to ensure it mixes evenly.

Step 5: Cook the Kalathappam

1. Prepare the Pan: Grease a deep pan or a thick-bottomed vessel with coconut oil or ghee.
2. Pour the Batter: Pour the prepared batter into the greased pan. Ensure it spreads evenly.
3. Cook: Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid. Cook on low heat for 15–20 minutes. The batter will set, and the edges will pull away from the pan.
4. Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick or knife into the center of the Kalathappam. If it comes out clean, the dish is ready.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish: Sprinkle the reserved toppings (coconut pieces, caramelized bananas, and fried shallots) on top for extra flavor and visual appeal.
2. Slice and Serve: Let the Kalathappam cool slightly before slicing it into wedges or squares. Serve warm with tea for the perfect tasty evening snack.

|| Check Six Best Food Delivery Apps in Dubai-How to Download & Use

Cooking Tips for Perfect Pazham Kalathappam Recipe

1. Choose Ripe Bananas: Use medium-ripe Kerala bananas (nenthrapazham) for the best taste. Overripe bananas can make the dish overly sweet.
2. Maintain Low Heat: Cook the Kalathappam on low heat to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
3. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh coconut and shallots enhance the dish’s flavor. Avoid using stale or dried alternatives.
4. Optional Sweetness: Adjust the sweetness to your preference by modifying the quantity of sugar and jaggery.
5. Avoid Overmixing: Once you add baking soda, mix the batter gently. Overmixing can affect the texture.

Why Pazham Kalathappam is the Perfect Evening Snack

• Quick and Easy: Despite its rich flavors, this dish comes together with simple steps and everyday ingredients.
• Wholesome and Nutritious: With bananas, rice, coconut, and jaggery, it’s a healthy snack option packed with energy.
• Crowd Favorite: Its unique taste and aroma make it a hit among children and adults alike.
• Traditional yet Timeless: Kalathappam is a nostalgic snack that resonates with the essence of Kerala’s traditional recipes.

Serving Suggestions

• As a Tea-Time Snack: Pair slices of Pazham Kalathappam with a hot cup of tea or coffee.
• Festive Treat: Serve it as a sweet dish during festivals or gatherings.
• On-the-Go Snack: Pack it in lunch boxes or carry it for picnics for a mess-free, delicious snack.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I replace nenthrapazham with another type of banana?
   While nenthrapazham is ideal for its flavor and texture, other semi-ripe bananas can be used as substitutes, though the taste may differ slightly.
2. What if I don’t have jaggery?
   You can substitute jaggery with brown sugar or palm sugar. However, jaggery provides an authentic taste that’s hard to replicate.
3. How do I store leftovers?
   Store Pazham Kalathappam in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat before serving.

Conclusion

Pazham Kalathappam is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of Kerala’s rich culinary tradition. This easy recipe is perfect for creating a snack that’s wholesome, flavorful, and satisfying. Whether you’re introducing someone to Kerala cuisine or enjoying a nostalgic treat, Pazham Kalathappam is bound to impress.

Try this recipe today and experience the delight of a tasty evening snack that’s both traditional and timeless!

|| Check Kottayam Style Fish Curry: How to Prepare-The Taste of Tradition