Undi (Seasoned Rice Dumplings)

Coconut Rice Dumplings, also known as “Undi” in some parts of India, are a delicacy made with glutinous rice, freshly grated coconut, urad dal, and chana dal . The mixture is shaped into small balls and then steamed until cooked through. Some recipes may also include other ingredients such as cardamom or nuts for additional flavor and texture. Coconut Rice Dumplings are often served as a dessert or snack and are popular in various regions of India and Southeast Asia.

Ingredients for Undi recipe

• 1 cup glutinous rice
• 1 cup freshly grated coconut
• 3 tsp oil
• 1 tsp mustard
• 1 tsp urad dal
• ¼ tsp methi/fenugreek
• 2 dried red chili
• few curries leave
• 1 tsp salt
• cup water (boiling)

Instruction for Undi recipe

1. Rinse the glutinous rice in the water a few times and then soak it in water for 4-6 hours.
2. Drain the water and grind the rice coarsely in a food processor or blender. You can also use a mortar and pestle.
3. In a nonstick skillet, heat the oil.
4. Sauté the mustard seeds until they begin to sputter. Stir in the urad dal, chana dal, and curry leaves. and cook until it turns light golden.
5. Pour in the drained rice, grated coconut, salt, and approximately 2 cups of water. Cook, covered, on a medium flame, stirring periodically, until the water evaporates. At this point, the rice should be fully cooked. However, because rice cooking times vary depending on brand and variety, feel free to add water in small increments and keep cooking.
6. At this point, the rice should form a dough-like bulk, similar to an upma.
7. Allow the combination to cool.
8. For this step, keep a small bowl of water nearby. Wet your hands with water to keep the rice mixture from sticking.
9. Roll a small portion of the rice mixture between your palms to create a golfball-sized ball. Finally, using the tip of your finger, create a small depression in the center of the dumpling. This is primarily for cosmetic purposes.
10. Arrange the undis on a steaming platter. You can now cover it and store it in the refrigerator for the next day’s use.
11. Over a medium flame, steam undis for 10-15 minutes.
12. Undi is now complete. Serve immediately.

Tips and variations