A Taste of Coorg with Leena: Akki Roti, Kadala Curry & Kuvule Putt!

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through preparing a delightful spread of traditional Coorg dishes: Akki Roti, Kadala Curry, and Kuvule Putt. Perfect for anyone interested in exploring South Indian cuisine, this guide will help you recreate these flavorful dishes in your own kitchen, while also providing insights into the cultural significance of each recipe.

Step 1: Making Akki Roti

Akki Roti is a crispy flatbread made from rice flour, a staple in Coorgi cuisine.

Ingredients

• 2 cups rice flour
• 1 cup water (adjust as needed)
• Salt to taste
• Optional: chopped onions, green chilies, coriander leaves

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

   • In a mixing bowl, add rice flour and salt.
   • Gradually add water, mixing until a smooth, pliable dough forms.
   • If you like, mix in chopped onions, green chilies, and coriander for added flavor.

2. Shape the Roti

   • Divide the dough into small balls.
   • Place a ball between two sheets of parchment paper or a greased plastic sheet.
   • Flatten it using a rolling pin to form a thin, round shape.

3. Cook the Roti

   • Heat a skillet over medium heat.
   • Carefully place the flattened dough on the skillet.
   • Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
   • Optionally, brush with ghee or oil before serving.

Step 2: Preparing Kadala Curry

Kadala Curry is a rich and aromatic black chickpea curry that pairs perfectly with Akki Roti.

Ingredients

• 1 cup black chickpeas (soaked overnight)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, pureed
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 2 teaspoons coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Chickpeas

   • Drain the soaked chickpeas and cook them in a pressure cooker with enough water for about 3-4 whistles, or until soft.

2. Prepare the Curry Base

   • In a pan, heat coconut oil over medium heat.
   • Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
   • Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute.
   • Add the tomato puree and cook until the oil separates.

3. Add Spices and Chickpeas

   • Mix in coriander, turmeric, and red chili powder.
   • Add the cooked chickpeas along with some of the cooking liquid.
   • Simmer for 10-15 minutes until thickened. Adjust seasoning if needed.

4. Garnish and Serve

   • Garnish with fresh coriander and serve hot with Akki Roti.

Step 3: Making Kuvule Putt

Kuvule Putt is a soft, fluffy steamed rice cake, perfect for breakfast or as a snack.

Ingredients

• 2 cups rice flour
• 1 cup water (adjust as needed)
• Salt to taste
• Optional: grated coconut

Instructions

1. Prepare the Batter

   • In a bowl, mix rice flour and salt.
   • Gradually add water, stirring until you achieve a smooth, thick batter. If using, fold in grated coconut.

2. Steam the Putt

   • Fill a steamer with water and bring to a boil.
   • Grease the putt molds or small cups.
   • Fill the molds with the batter and place them in the steamer.
   • Cover and steam for about 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.

3. Serve

   • Carefully remove from molds and serve warm with curry or as is.

Conclusion

You've now created a traditional Coorg feast featuring Akki Roti, Kadala Curry, and Kuvule Putt. Each dish showcases the rich flavors and cultural heritage of Coorg cuisine. Enjoy your meal, and consider experimenting with variations of these recipes or exploring other Coorg dishes in your culinary journey!