Food Walk

 

FOOD WALK

Introduction:

 

Food walk, also known as a food tour or culinary tour, is a guided exploration of a local area’s food culture and cuisine.it typically involves walking through neighborhoods, markets, and eateries while tasting local specialties and learning about the history and culture behind the food.

 

Food walks can be conducted in various settings, ranging from urban cities to rural towns, and can feature a wide range of foods, from street food to haute cuisine. They offer a unique and immersive way to experience a new place, and are popular among travelers and locals alike.

 

Food walks can be conducted by professional food guides or food enthusiasts, and may be themed around specific cuisines or culinary traditions. They provide an opportunity to learn about local food culture, meet new people, and discover hidden gems that may be off the beaten path.

 

 

    Here, we have chosen “RICE PUTTU” a Kerala dish to explore in our food walk.

 

Rice Puttu    

 

Rice puttu has a long history in South India, particularly in the states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu, where it is a staple food. The dish is believed to have originated in Kerala, where rice is a major crop and a dietary staple. In this report, we will discuss the history, preparation, ingredients, nutritional and medicinal value of rice puttu.

 

History of rice puttu:

 

Historically, puttu was made by grinding rice at home using a mortar and pestle. The rice flour would then be mixed with grated coconut and steamed in bamboo or metal cylinders placed over boiling water. This traditional method is still used in many households, although modern kitchen appliances like grinders and steamers have made the process much easier.

 

Puttu has evolved over time, and today there are many variations of the dish, including wheat puttu, ragi puttu (made with finger millet), and even sweet versions made with jaggery or sugar. Despite these variations, rice puttu remains a beloved and iconic dish in South Indian cuisine, cherished for its simplicity, versatility, and delicious taste.

 

Ingredients:

 

The main ingredients used in rice puttu are:

 

·         Rice flour: The primary ingredient, typically made from finely ground raw rice.

 

·         Grated coconut: Adds flavor and texture to the puttu.

 

 

·         Water: Used to moisten the rice flour and make it into a dough-like consistency.

 

·         Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the puttu.

 

Optional ingredients that can be added to enhance the flavor or texture:

 

·         Sugar or jaggery: For a sweet version of puttu.

 

·         Cardamom powder: Adds a fragrant aroma.

 

·         Ghee: For a richer taste.

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These ingredients are layered in a puttu maker or steamer and steamed until cooked, resulting in a fluffy and delicious rice puttu.

Preparation:

 

To prepare rice puttu, you will need a puttu maker or steamer. Here's a basic recipe:

 

·         Prepare the rice flour: If you don't have ready-made rice flour, you can make it at home by soaking raw rice for a few hours, draining it well, and then grinding it into a fine powder. Sieve the rice flour to remove any coarse particles.

 

·         Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the rice flour with a pinch of salt. Slowly add water little by little and mix with your fingers until the flour resembles a crumbly texture. The texture should be such that when you hold a small amount of the flour mixture in your fist and release it, it should hold its shape but crumble easily.

 

·         Prepare the steamer: Fill the bottom of the puttu maker or steamer with water and bring it to a boil.

 

·         Layering: Place a layer of grated coconut in the bottom of the puttu maker, followed by a layer of the rice flour mixture. Repeat this process until the puttu maker is almost full, ending with a layer of coconut on top.

 

·         Steam: Place the puttu maker on top of the steamer and steam for about 8-10 minutes, or until the puttu is cooked and has a fluffy texture.

 

·         Serve: Remove the puttu from the steamer and gently push it out of the puttu maker onto a plate. Serve hot with kadala curry, banana, or sugar, as per your preference. Enjoy your delicious rice puttu!

 

 

Nutritional Value:                           

Rice puttu is a nutritious dish, especially when paired with protein-rich accompaniments like chickpea curry (kadala curry) or lentils. Here's a general idea of its nutritional value:

 

·         Calories: One serving (around 100 grams) of rice puttu provides approximately 200-250 calories.

·         Carbohydrates: It is a good source of carbohydrates, providing around 40-50 grams per serving.

·         Protein: While rice puttu itself is not high in protein, when paired with protein-rich sides, it can contribute to your daily protein intake.

·         Fat: It is low in fat, with most of the fat coming from the coconut used in the recipe.

·         Fiber: It contains a moderate amount of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion.

·         Vitamins and minerals: Rice puttu contains some amount of vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins and iron, especially if made with fortified rice flour.

 

Overall, rice puttu can be a healthy and filling meal, especially when paired with a variety of side dishes that provide a balance of nutrients.

 

Medicinal Value:

 

Rice puttu, like many traditional foods, offers some health benefits beyond basic nutrition. Here are a few:

 

·         Digestive health: Rice puttu is steamed, making it easily digestible. The fiber content in rice and coconut can also aid in digestion and promote gut health.

 

·         Energy source: Being rich in carbohydrates, rice puttu provides a quick source of energy, making it ideal for breakfast or as a snack.

 

·         Low in fat: Rice puttu is naturally low in fat, which can be beneficial for those watching their fat intake.

 

·         Gluten-free: Since it's made from rice flour, rice puttu is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

 

·         Rich in nutrients: While it's not a powerhouse of nutrients, rice puttu does provide some vitamins and minerals, especially if fortified rice flour is used.

 

Overall, while rice puttu may not have significant medicinal value on its own, when combined with a balanced diet, it can contribute to overall health and well-being.