Palathalikalu is a cherished traditional dessert from Andhra Pradesh, particularly enjoyed during Ganesh Chaturthi. This delightful treat is crafted from rice flour and simmered in milk, flavored with aromatic cardamom, and sweetened with jaggery or sugar. Here’s how you can prepare it:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rice flour
- 1 ½ cups water (for the dough)
- 4 cups milk
- 1 cup jaggery (or sugar)
- ½ teaspoon cardamom powder
- 2 tablespoons ghee
- 10-12 cashews
- 10-12 raisins
- A pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough:
- Bring 1 ½ cups of water to a boil with a pinch of salt.
- Gradually add the rice flour, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
- Cook on low heat for about 5 minutes until the mixture thickens.
- Allow it to cool slightly, then knead into a smooth dough.
- Shape the Thalikalu:
- Divide the dough into small portions.
- Roll each portion into thin cylinders about 1-2 inches long.
- Cook in Milk:
- Bring 4 cups of milk to a boil.
- Add the shaped thalikalu to the milk, then reduce the heat and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the thalikalu are tender.
- Sweeten:
- Stir in jaggery or sugar into the milk, and cook until fully dissolved.
- Simmer for an additional 10 minutes, then add the cardamom powder.
- Enhance with Nuts:
- Heat ghee in a pan and fry the cashews and raisins until golden brown.
- Add the fried nuts to the cooked palathalikalu.
- Serve:
- Serve warm or at room temperature. This sweet and creamy dessert is ideal for Ganesh Chaturthi and is perfect for sharing with family and friends during the festivities.
This indulgent treat is not only a festive delight but also a wonderful offering to Lord Ganesha!
Feel free to adjust any details according to your preferences or regional variations!
