Sweet poha | sweet aval | aval nanachathu | sweet flattened rice flakes
Introducing Aval Nanachathu, a delicious and traditional sweet dish from Kerala that embodies the essence of simplicity and flavour. This timeless recipe combines the wholesome goodness of flat rice (aval or poha), the natural sweetness of jaggery and the rich texture of grated coconut. Aval Nanachathu is a prized delicacy that is famous for its quick preparation, making it a perfect choice for a sweet treat or a delicious snack.
About Poha/aval
Aval, also known as flattened rice or poha, is a type of rice that has been flattened into flat, light, dry flakes. It is a common ingredient in Indian and Southeast Asian cuisines and is known for its versatility. Aval is made by boiling rice and then flattening it to produce thin, flat flakes. These flakes can vary in thickness; some recipes call for either fine or coarse aval.
Aval comes in two main varieties: coarse and fine. The choice of coarseness depends on the recipe and personal preference. Coarse aval is typically used in dishes where you want to retain some texture, while fine aval is used in recipes where you prefer a smoother texture.
Due to its quick cooking and ability to absorb flavours, aval is commonly used in a variety of dishes, both sweet and savoury. It is a staple in many breakfast, snack and dessert recipes in different regional cuisines. Additionally, aval is valued for its gluten-free nature, making it suitable for people with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease.
Aval Nanachatu | Sweet poha
Aval Nanachathu: This sweet dish not only captivates with its unique combination of ingredients but also reflects the rich culinary heritage of Kerala. Aromatic cardamom, earthy jaggery and the lightness of soaked poha combine to create a symphony of flavours that is both comforting and nostalgic.
Embark on a culinary journey and learn more about the making of Aval Nanachathu, where simplicity meets indulgence and tradition merges with modern pleasures of the palate. Whether enjoyed on its own or accompanied by slices of banana, this sweet delicacy is an invitation to savour the authentic taste of Kerala in every bite. Let the aroma of jaggery and coconut fill your kitchen as you prepare this age-old delicacy, which is sure to become a favourite in your collection of sweet delights.
Ingredients
- 1 cup coarse or fine flattened rice (aval/poha)
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup jaggery, grated or powdered
- 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter) (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
- A pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons chopped nuts (cashews, almonds)
- 1 tablespoon raisins (optional)
- Banana slices for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse the Poha/aval: Rinse the flattened rice/poha/aval under running water in a colander. Rinse it carefully to prevent it from breaking. Let it sit for a few minutes to drain off excess water.
- Soaking the Poha/aval: Place the rinsed poha/aval in a bowl and add enough warm water to cover it. Let it soak for about 5 to 7 minutes. After soaking, fluff the poha/aval gently using a fork.
- Prepare the coconut and jaggery mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the grated coconut, grated jaggery and cardamom powder. Mix well to form a sweet coconut-jaggery mixture.
- Combine Poha/aval and coconut mixture: Add the soaked and fluffy poha/aval to the coconut and jaggery mixture. Mix well until the coconut and jaggery mixture evenly covers the poha.
- Tempered with ghee and nuts: In a small pan, heat the ghee over medium heat. Add the chopped walnuts and raisins (if using) and sauté until the walnuts turn golden.
- Mix the warm nuts with Poha/aval: Pour the ghee and nuts mixture over the poha, coconut and jaggery mixture. Combine everything well. Ghee adds flavour and richness to the dish.
- Check sweetness and adjust: Taste the Poha/Aval Nanachathu and adjust the sweetness by adding more jaggery if required.
- Attend: Garnish with additional nuts if desired. Serve the Poha/Aval Nanachathu warm, alone or with banana slices.
Aval Nanachathu is a delicious and nutritious snack that showcases the unique flavours of Kerala cuisine. Enjoy this sweet coconut flavoured delicacy!
Grades
If you are using fine white poha/aval, skip steps 1 and 2 as this type of poha/aval becomes soft when soaked.
Benefits of poha/guarantee
1. Nutrient-rich energy source: Flattened rice or poha/aval is an excellent source of energy due to its rich carbohydrate content. Easily digestible carbohydrates provide a quick energy boost, making it a popular breakfast or snack choice, especially in regions where it is a staple food.
2. Gluten-free and easy to digest: A notable benefit of poha/aval is that it is gluten-free, making it suitable for people with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease, and offering a versatile alternative for those who need to avoid gluten-containing grains.
3. Iron for hemoglobin production: Flattened rice contains iron, an essential mineral for the production of hemoglobin. Including flattened rice in your diet can help maintain healthy iron levels, which promotes proper oxygen transport in the body.
4. Low calorie option: For those looking to control their calorie intake or maintain a healthy weight, poha/aval is a favorable option. It is relatively low in calories, making it a nutritious and satisfying option for those looking for a light yet satisfying meal.
5. Dietary fiber for digestive health: Poha/aval is a good source of dietary fiber that promotes digestive health by preventing constipation and supports a healthy gut microbiome. The fiber content helps maintain regular bowel movements.
6. B vitamins for energy metabolism: Rich in B vitamins such as thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3) and vitamin B6, aval plays a role in energy metabolism. These vitamins are essential for converting food into energy and supporting various bodily functions.
7. Quick and easy to prepare: One of the practical advantages of poha/aval is that it is quick to prepare. It requires minimal cooking, making it an ideal choice for busy mornings or when you want a quick and nutritious meal.
8. Versatility in culinary applications: Poha/aval’s versatility extends to both sweet and savoury dishes. It easily absorbs flavours, making it an adaptable ingredient for a wide range of recipes, from traditional breakfast options to innovative snacks and desserts.
Incorporating Poha/aval into your diet can be a tasty and nutritionally beneficial option, offering a balance of energy, essential nutrients and dietary flexibility.
