Palathalikalu facts for kids

Palathalikalu is a delicious Indian sweet dish. It comes from the Delta region of Andhra Pradesh, India. People usually make this special dessert during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival.

What is Palathalikalu?

Palathalikalu is a sweet and creamy dessert. It's made from rice flour and milk. The name "Palathalikalu" means "milk strings" because of its unique shape. It's a popular treat, especially during celebrations.

How to Make This Sweet Treat

Making Palathalikalu involves a few simple steps. It's like making a sweet pasta dish!

Ingredients You'll Need

To make Palathalikalu, you will need:

• 4 cups of milk (whole or 2%)
• 1 cup of rice flour
• 1-½ cups of sugar
• ½ cup of grated coconut (fresh or frozen)
• 4 tablespoons of toasted and crushed sesame seeds
• 1 teaspoon of cardamom powder
• A few strands of saffron
• 2 tablespoons of crushed nuts (like cashew, almonds, and pistachios)
• 1 tablespoon of ghee (clarified butter)
• 2 cups of water

Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

First, boil water in a large, deep pot or saucepan. Add the ghee to the boiling water. Then, slowly stir in the sifted rice flour.

Stir well with a wooden spoon. Make sure there are no lumps in the mixture. Once the rice flour is mixed, turn off the heat. Cover the pot and let the mixture cook for a short time.

Next, knead the dough while it is still warm. Wet your hands with water to help. Divide the dough into small, 2-inch balls. Then, roll each ball into long, thin strings.

Set these rice strings aside. Let them dry for about 10 to 15 minutes.

Meanwhile, boil four cups of milk in another pot. Once the milk boils, add the sugar, cardamom powder, and saffron. Let these flavors mix well on medium heat for about 10 minutes.

Now, add the prepared rice strings to the boiling milk. Let them boil for another 7 to 10 minutes.

Finally, add the grated coconut, crushed nuts, and crushed sesame seeds. These are for garnishing and extra flavor.

You can enjoy Palathalikalu hot or cold. Both ways taste great!