Introduction:

Undralla Payasam is one of the most divine naivedyam dishes prepared during Ganesh Chaturthi in Andhra and Telangana. This creamy festive dessert features tiny steamed rice flour dumplings simmered in coconut milk, gently sweetened with jaggery and perfumed with cardamom. In many homes, it’s a must-offer to Lord Ganesha because it balances simplicity, devotion, and nourishing taste. The soft undrallu symbolize prosperity, while jaggery and coconut milk bring depth and traditional richness. With a few easy steps, you can create this aromatic sweet at home—perfect as naivedyam or as a celebratory dessert shared with family and friends.

Cooking Time:

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients:

• Rice flour – 1 cup
• Water – 2 cups (1 cup for dough, 1 cup for syrup)
• Ghee – 2 tsp
• Pinch of salt
• Grated jaggery – 1 cup
• Coconut milk – 2 cups (fresh or canned)
• Cardamom powder – ½ tsp
• Cashews – 8–10
• Raisins – 8–10

Step-by-Step-Instructions:

1. Make dough: Boil 1 cup water with a pinch of salt and 1 tsp ghee. Lower heat, add rice flour gradually, stirring to avoid lumps. Turn off heat, cool slightly, and knead into a smooth dough.
2. Shape undrallu: Grease hands with a little ghee, pinch small portions, and roll into marble-sized balls.
3. Steam: Steam the balls in an idli steamer or covered pot for 7–10 minutes until firm. Set aside.
4. Jaggery syrup: Simmer grated jaggery with 1 cup water until dissolved; strain to remove impurities.
5. Payasam base: In a heavy pan, bring 2 cups coconut milk with ½–1 cup water to a gentle boil.
6. Cook undrallu: Add steamed balls to the coconut milk; simmer 5–7 minutes so they absorb flavor.
7. Sweeten: Add jaggery syrup slowly on low heat, stirring to prevent curdling; cook 5–7 minutes.
8. Finish: Stir in cardamom powder. Fry cashews and raisins in 1 tsp ghee and fold into the payasam.
9. Serve: Offer warm as naivedyam or chill and serve as a festive dessert.

Tips & Variations:

• Always steam the dumplings first so they don’t break in the milk.
• Fresh coconut milk gives the best aroma; canned is a quick alternative.
• A few saffron strands add a royal touch; adjust jaggery to taste.
• Swap rice flour with millet flour for a wholesome twist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm during pooja as naivedyam. As part of a festive spread, pair with Kudumulu/Modak, Pulihora, and sundal. Chilled leftovers taste great too.

Health Benefits

• Rice flour: quick energy from complex carbs.
• Jaggery: provides iron and minerals; less refined than sugar.
• Coconut milk: healthy fats and lauric acid for immune support.
• Cardamom & nuts: aid digestion and add micronutrients.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I skip coconut milk? Yes; cow’s milk works, but coconut milk gives authentic festival flavor.

How to prevent breaking? Steam the balls first and keep heat low after adding jaggery.

Storage? 1 day at room temperature; 2–3 days refrigerated.

Conclusion:

Undralla Payasam captures the essence of Ganesh Chaturthi—devotional, delicious, and nourishing. Simple steps, pantry ingredients, and a celebratory aroma make it a family favorite. Offer to Lord Ganesha and share the joy!

Tags:

Undralla Payasam, Ganesh Chaturthi Recipes, Vinayaka Chavithi Naivedyam, Festival Sweets, Andhra Telangana Sweets, Jaggery Sweets, Coconut Milk Desserts