This roasted rice flour snack paired with a fruit is a healthy, gluten free, nut free. It is a lovely idea to add to the Christmas snack stock.
Two things that remind me of Christmas in Kerala are the spiced fruit cake with the classic icing and the avalose podi. There are plenty of these great fond memories that I collect under Kerala Christmas recipe post.
The avalose podi was certainly special as this came over the wall of memories. The large compound wall that separated our land areas was not one that bothered my mum or her neighbour Annie. The well positioned gap between the trees had the spot for these to be traded through the back garden by Annie chechi (as in big sister) and my amma. It did mark the beginning of all the Christmas treats that were coming.Years later, I have a similar naighbour and I wanted to make her little something that she can try from my world.
What is avalose podi?
Avalose podi is a snack mix that is in a powder form. It is gluten free,vegan and a nut free mix. Almost close to a trail mix, this can be served anytime of the day and also be used as a sprinkling on the top of sweet fruits like banana, jackfruit or mango. Sprinkled with a bit of sugar, jaggery or honey avalose podi transforms itself into a quick and easy dessert. With it long shelf like it is a favorute in most kerala homes, especially the ones with smaller children.
Is avalose unda the same as avalose podi?
The avalose podi is a powdered form. When it is mixed with mashed plantain banana and rolled into small balls it is called avalose unda. The avalose unda is much more easy to have as a dessert. However it has to be made fresh. It doesn’t stay long.
Ingredients to make avalose podi
Avalose podi is literally a three ingredient recipe. It us gluten-free, nut free and absolutely vegan.
Rice flour: When it comes to avalose podi, I do take the prepared rice flour. I am fully aware that I will get looked down upon. True, the flavour of the freshly milled rice flour making this recipe is really different in aroma. However, it is a labour oriented process that I tend to avoid. Hence, use my shortcut and start with a pathiri podi (roasted, finely milled rice flour).
Coconut : freshly grated coconut is the one that give the snack flavour, fragrance and fibre. The milkiness of the freshly grated coconut binds the mix together. You can use frozen grated coconut. If you feel it has not enough binding use a bit of coconut milk.
Cumin seeds: Cumin seeds are a gentle spice and a bite of smoky flavour. You don’t need to add it if you are not fond of it.
Ginger powder: the smoky flavours of dry giner powder ctully sits well when thsi powder combines with sweet starchy fruits.
Salt: the underlying savory notes pair well with sweet fruits.
Let’s make avalose podi
Preparing the mix: the rice store bought rice flour will be slightly roasted. To this add the coconut, salt and ginger powder and gently rub it on the flour, till it forms a even mix. Sprinkle the cumin seeds.
Roasting the mix: transfer the mix to a thick bottomed wok or frying pan. On a low heat roast the mix till it turns golden brown. This is a slow process. Don’t be discouraged. Don’t be tempted to increase the heat.
Cooling and storing: once the mix is golden brown, remove from heat. Mix and cool the powder. Once completely cool, transfer into an airtight container.
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- Ingredient mix
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- Flavour mixes
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- rubbing the coconut mix.
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- roasting the mix
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- Golden brown avalose podi
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- avalose podi ready
Meal prep and storage
Avalose podi is a great snack to have as a meal prep. It stays so good for up to 6 months and do not need refrigeration for up to one month. Store in a clean dry bottle. Use a clean dry spoon to remove the powder into a a small bowl.
How to serve avalose podi?
- Slice up a banana.
- Place this on a serving plate.
- Sprinkle avalose podi on it.
- Sprinkle a bit of sugar ( or sweetner) and mix.
- Have immediately.
What fruits are best with avalose podi?
Usually plantains are served with avalose podi. You can use any type of banana that is easily available. In addition, mango, jackfruit, pears and persimmon, tastes wonderful with this podi.
Avalose podi
Equipment
- frying pan
Ingredients
- 2 cups rice flour
- 1 cup grated coconut
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp dry ginger powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
Instructions
- Add the rice flour and grated coconut into a mixing bowl..
- Rub the coconut into the rice flour. this forms a crumbly mixture.
- Add the ginger powder, salt and cumin seeds
- Mix that well again.
- Add this into the frying pan.
- Set it on lo heat, mix and stir till it turns fragrant, golden brown and aromatic.
- Once golden brown, mix and remove from heat.
- cool and store in airtight boxes.
Other tea time snacks for Christmas season
Tea time gathering are really important in families on kerala..among the popular eats, there are salty and sweet stuff.
Spiced Christmas cake
Banana chips
Jackfruit fritters
Cornflakes mixture
Try these while you have your family visiting you for this holidays.
Stay connected
I hope you enjoy this slightly different jar snack. When you try this recipe do share with us how much you like it. Also tell us which fruits was best with this avalose podi. Stay subscribed with us.
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See you in the next post.
