Upma Kozhukattai
Savory steamed dumplings made from coarse rice flour and tempered with classic South Indian spices. This wholesome Tamil breakfast is soft, flavorful, and pairs perfectly with coconut chutney.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 25 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Tempering
- b.Heat coconut oil in a heavy-bottomed pan or kadai over medium heat.
- c.Add mustard seeds and allow them to splutter completely, which takes about 30-45 seconds.
- d.Add urad dal and chana dal. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until they turn a light golden brown, being careful not to burn them.
- e.Add the finely chopped onion, green chilies, grated ginger, and curry leaves. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent.
- f.Stir in the asafoetida and cook for another 10 seconds.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Cook the Rava Mixture
- b.Pour 2.5 cups of water into the pan, add salt, and bring it to a rolling boil.
- c.Reduce the heat to low. Slowly and steadily pour in the idli rava with one hand while continuously stirring with the other to prevent lumps.
- d.Continue to stir and cook for 4-5 minutes. The mixture will thicken quickly and absorb all the water, forming a single, non-sticky mass that pulls away from the sides of the pan.
- e.Turn off the heat. Add the grated coconut and chopped coriander leaves, and mix everything together well.
- f.Cover the pan and let the mixture rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows it to cool slightly and makes it easier to handle.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Shape the Dumplings (Kozhukattai)
- b.While the mixture is still warm but cool enough to touch, grease your palms with a little oil.
- c.Take a small, lemon-sized portion of the mixture.
- d.Gently roll it between your palms to form a smooth, oval or round dumpling (kozhukattai).
- e.Place the shaped dumplings on a greased idli plate or a steamer tray, ensuring they don't touch each other.
- f.Repeat until all the mixture is used.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Steam the Kozhukattai
- b.Add 1-2 inches of water to a steamer or pressure cooker and bring it to a boil.
- c.Place the tray of kozhukattai inside. If using a pressure cooker, do not put on the whistle/weight.
- d.Cover and steam on medium heat for 10-12 minutes.
- e.The kozhukattai are done when they look shiny and feel firm. You can insert a toothpick into the center of one; it should come out clean.
- f.Turn off the heat and let them rest in the steamer for 5 minutes before carefully removing them.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Serve
- b.Serve the Upma Kozhukattai hot with coconut chutney, tomato chutney, or sambar for a complete and delicious meal.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1The key to a lump-free mixture is to add the rava slowly to the boiling water while stirring continuously.
- 2Ensure the upma mixture is thick and not watery. If it's too loose, the dumplings won't hold their shape during steaming.
- 3Greasing your palms prevents the mixture from sticking and helps in shaping smooth dumplings.
- 4Do not over-steam the kozhukattai, as they can become hard and dense.
- 5Let the dumplings cool for a few minutes before serving. They firm up slightly as they cool and are less likely to break.
Adapt it for your goals.
Add Vegetables
Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like carrots, green peas, and beans along with the onions for added nutrition and color.
Use Broken RiceUse Broken Rice
For a more traditional texture, use broken raw rice (arisi kurunai) instead of idli rava. You will need to soak the broken rice for at least 1-2 hours before proceeding with the recipe.
Millet VersionMillet Version
Substitute idli rava with foxtail millet rava or kodo millet rava for a healthier, high-fiber alternative. The water ratio may need slight adjustment.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Provides Sustained Energy
Made from rice rava, this dish is rich in complex carbohydrates that provide a steady release of energy, keeping you full and active for longer.
Low in Fat
As the dumplings are steamed rather than fried, this recipe is inherently low in fat and cholesterol, making it a heart-healthy choice.
Easy to Digest
The soft, steamed texture makes Upma Kozhukattai light on the stomach and easy to digest, suitable for all age groups.
Wholesome & Plant-Based
This dish is entirely vegan and made from simple, wholesome ingredients, offering a nutritious meal without any animal products.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is a very healthy dish. It is steamed, not fried, making it low in fat and calories. The main ingredient, rice rava, provides carbohydrates for energy, and the dish is easily digestible.