Kalathappam facts for kids
Kalathappam
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| Alternative names | Kalthappam |
|---|---|
| Course | Dessert |
| Place of origin | India |
| Region or state | North Malabar |
| Main ingredients | Rice flour, coconut, shallots, jaggery, cashew nut |
Kalathappam (കലത്തപ്പം) is a delicious and unique sweet rice cake from the southern part of India. It's especially popular in the North Malabar and South Malabar regions, including cities like Kannur, Malappuram, and Kasaragod. In Mangalore, the Beary Muslim community calls it kalthappa.
Contents
What is Kalathappam?
Kalathappam is a type of rice cake that's soft and spongy on the inside, often with a slightly crispy outside. It's usually sweet because it's made with jaggery, which is a traditional unrefined sugar. This tasty dessert is a favorite snack or sweet treat in many homes.
Key Ingredients of Kalathappam
This special cake is made from a few simple but flavorful ingredients:
- Rice flour: The main base of the cake.
- Water: To mix with the rice flour and create a batter.
- Coconut oil: Used for cooking and adds a nice flavor.
- Jaggery sugar: Gives the Kalathappam its sweet taste and brownish color.
- Onions or shallots: These are fried and added for a unique savory touch that balances the sweetness.
- Coconut flakes: Add texture and a rich coconut flavor.
- Cardamom powder: A spice that gives a lovely aroma and taste.
Where is Kalathappam Popular?
Kalathappam is a well-loved dish in the Kerala state of India. It's particularly famous in the northern districts of Kerala, known as North Malabar and South Malabar. This includes areas like Kannur, Malappuram, and Kasaragod. It's a common sight in local bakeries and homes.
How is Kalathappam Made?
Making Kalathappam involves mixing all the ingredients into a smooth batter. It can be cooked in different ways, similar to how you might make a pancake or bake a cake.
Traditional Cooking Method
The traditional way to cook Kalathappam in Kasaragod is quite special.
- First, a batter is made from ground rice, coconut flakes, onions, cardamom, and water.
- This batter is poured into hot oil in a special traditional cooking pot called an uruli.
- Then, a metal lid is placed over the uruli.
- On top of this metal lid, fire is placed, often using coconut shells.
- This unique method heats the Kalathappam from both the bottom and the top.
- This double heating creates a wonderful crunchy outer shell while keeping the inside soft.
Kalathappam can also be baked in a traditional oven or even steamed in a rice cooker, making it a versatile and delicious treat enjoyed by many.
