Heavenly Kumbilappam: A Taste of Kerala Tradition

Heavenly Kumbilappam A Taste of Kerala Tradition

Introduction:

Prepare to embark on a culinary journey to the lush green landscapes of Kerala as we delve into the art of making Kumbilappam. This beloved delicacy, with its tantalizing blend of flavors and aromas, captures the essence of Kerala’s rich gastronomic heritage. From the sweetness of jaggery to the warmth of cardamom and the subtle hint of bay leaves, each bite of Kumbilappam is a symphony of taste and tradition. Join us as we uncover the secrets to creating this heavenly treat in your own kitchen.

Preparation Time: ~20 minutes Cooking Time: ~10-12 minutes Serves: ~8-9

Ingredients:

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Jackfruit Mixture:
    • In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked jackfruit (Chakka) or Chakka Varetti with grated coconut.
    • Add roasted rice flour gradually until the mixture reaches a dough-like consistency.
  2. Add Spices and Sweeteners:
    • To the jackfruit and coconut mixture, add cumin powder, dry ginger powder, and cardamom powder for a burst of flavor.
    • Mix well to ensure even distribution of the spices.
    • In a separate pan, dissolve jaggery in water over low heat to form a syrup. Once dissolved, remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
  3. Combine the Ingredients:
    • Pour the jaggery syrup into the jackfruit mixture and knead until everything is well incorporated. Adjust the sweetness according to your preference by adding more or less jaggery.
  4. Prepare the Bay Leaves:
    • Wash and pat dry the bay leaves (Vazhana ela/ Edana ela) to remove any dirt.
    • Heat the bay leaves slightly to make them pliable and easy to work with.
  5. Assemble and Steam:
    • Take a small portion of the jackfruit mixture and place it on a bay leaf.
    • Fold the bay leaf over the mixture to form a neat parcel and secure the ends of the leaf with coconut leaf sticks, ensuring the dumplings are tightly wrapped.
    • Repeat this process for the remaining mixture and bay leaves.
    • Arrange the assembled parcels in a steamer and steam for 10-12 minutes until cooked through.
  6. Serve and Enjoy:
    • Once steamed, allow the Kumbilappam to cool slightly before serving.
    • Unwrap the bay leaves and indulge in the irresistible aroma and flavors of this traditional Kerala delicacy.

Conclusion:

With its harmonious blend of jackfruit, coconut, spices, and jaggery encased in fragrant bay leaves, Kumbilappam is a true celebration of Kerala’s culinary heritage. Whether enjoyed as a dessert or a snack, each bite is a reminder of the rich traditions and flavors that define Kerala cuisine. So, gather your ingredients and embark on a culinary adventure to savor the taste of Kerala with homemade Kumbilappam.