Kavuni Arisi Pongal

A few months ago, I had a chance to taste this delicious sweet at a wedding party. Kavuni arisi pongal, being a popular sweet recipe in Chettinad weddings, has a delightful mix of flavors and an aroma that can only be explained as heavenly. The crunchy outer and soft inner textures of the Kavuni rice make this dish very unique and fun to eat. Moreover, research shows that forbidden rice contains over 23 types of antioxidants and has the highest antioxidant activity of all rice varieties. So go ahead and try this amazing sweet recipe out!

What Is Kavuni Arise Pongal?

• Kavuni Arise Pongal is a traditional South Indian sweet dish made with black glutinous rice, also known as kavuni arisi. This delectable dessert combines the unique texture of black rice with the rich flavors of jaggery, coconut, and cardamom. The addition of ghee adds a rich and indulgent finish to this dish, making it a perfect treat for any occasion.
• The combination of succulent kavuni arisi with aromatic Indian spices and unique seasoning makes this dish a true delight for the taste buds. The sweet and savory flavors come together to create an irresistible dish that is loved by many. Whether served as a dessert or a sweet breakfast, Kavuni Arise Pongal is a true Indian culinary delight that is sure to satisfy your sweet cravings.

Why You'll Love Kavuni Arisi Pongal?

• Deliciously Gooey Texture: The Kavuni Arisi Pongal has a unique texture that is slightly mushy but still maintains a bite, making it a delightful dish to indulge in.
• Health Benefits: Kavuni Arisi (Black Rice) is packed with antioxidants, fiber, and minerals, making it a healthier alternative to white rice. It is also known for its low glycemic index, which can help in managing blood sugar levels.
• Gluten-Free and Nutritious: This recipe is perfect for those with gluten intolerance and is a good source of essential nutrients, making it a wholesome and satisfying option for everyone.
• Natural Sweetness: The dish is sweetened with jaggery, a natural sweetener that is a better alternative to refined sugar, giving it a subtle sweetness and added nutritional benefits.
• Coconut Infusion: The addition of fresh coconut pieces not only enhances the flavor but also adds a refreshing and tropical twist to the dish.
• Quick and Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, this Kavuni Arisi Pongal is a quick and effortless dish to prepare, perfect for busy days or as a special treat.

Ingredients for Kavuni Arise Pongal

• Kavuni Arisi (Black Rice): Adds a unique nutty flavor and a dark color to the pongal, making it visually appealing and rich in taste.
• Water: Essential for cooking the rice and creating the right consistency for the dish.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish and balances the sweetness from jaggery.
• Fresh Coconut Pieces: Adds a natural sweetness and a delightful texture to the pongal, elevating its taste.
• Jaggery (powdered): Provides a rich, caramel-like sweetness to the dish, making it a delicious and indulgent dessert.
• Cardamoms: Infuses a warm and aromatic flavor to the pongal, complementing the sweetness of the jaggery and coconut.

How To Make Kavuni Arise Pongal?

• To make Kavuni Arise Pongal, first, wash the rice and soak it in lots of water overnight or for at least 8 hours.
• After soaking, drain the water and rinse the rice before transferring it to a pressure cooker. Add 2 cups of water and pressure cook for 4 to 5 whistles over low medium flame.
• Allow the pressure to settle naturally and when you open the lid, there should be a little water floating on top. Add salt and gently mix the rice until it is slightly mushy but still has a bit of bite.
• Next, grind the coconut pieces and cardamoms in a mixie jar until coarse.
• Then add the powdered jaggery and the coconut mixture to the rice, which will immediately loosen up the mixture.
• Simmer and cook for 2 minutes in a low flame or until it becomes thick. Finally, add ghee and cook for 1 minute, then switch off the flame and serve hot.

The key to a flavorful Kavuni Arise Pongal is to ensure that the rice is soaked and cooked to the right consistency, and to add the coconut and jaggery mixture at the right time to achieve the perfect texture and sweetness. Enjoy this delicious dish!

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with savory sides: Kavuni Arise Pongal can be served with a variety of savory side dishes such as coconut chutney, sambar, or even a spicy curry to balance out the sweetness of the pongal.
• Fresh fruit accompaniments: For a refreshing twist, serve the Kavuni Arise Pongal with fresh slices of mango, banana, or even a fruit salad to add a burst of freshness to the meal.
• Nuts and seeds: Sprinkle some crunchy nuts and seeds on top of the Kavuni Arise Pongal for an added texture and flavor. Almonds, cashews, and sesame seeds would make a great addition.
• Yogurt or raita: A side of yogurt or raita can provide a cooling contrast to the warm and sweet Kavuni Arise Pongal, creating a well-balanced meal.
• Papad or vada: Serve Kavuni Arise Pongal with some crispy papad or vada for a delightful crunch and a satisfying addition to the meal.
• Herbal tea or spiced drink: Complement the flavors of Kavuni Arise Pongal with a cup of herbal tea or a spiced beverage to round off the meal with a soothing and aromatic touch.

Tips for Making Kavuni Arise Pongal

• Soaking Time: It's important to plan ahead and soak the Kavuni Arisi in water for at least 8 hours, or overnight, for the best results.
• Pressure Cooking: When pressure cooking the rice, make sure to cook it for 4 to 5 whistles over low medium flame. Allowing the pressure to settle naturally is key to achieving the perfect texture.
• Consistency is Key: The rice should be slightly mushy but still have a bit of bite. Make sure to mix the rice gently and adjust the cooking time for the desired consistency.
• Garnish for Presentation: Don't forget to garnish the Kavuni Arise Pongal with a sprinkle of fresh coconut pieces and a drizzle of ghee for a beautiful presentation.
• Coconut and Jaggery Mixture: When grinding the coconut pieces and cardamoms, be sure to keep the mixture coarse before adding the powdered jaggery. This will help the mixture to loosen up and create the perfect texture for the dish.
• Simmer and Serve: After adding the jaggery and coconut mixture to the rice, simmer and cook for 2 minutes in low flame until it becomes thick. Finish with a final touch of ghee before serving hot and enjoying!

Variations for Kavuni Arise Pongal

• Nutty Delight: Add a handful of chopped almonds, cashews, and raisins to the pongal for a crunchy and nutty flavor.
• Fruity Twist: For a refreshing twist, add a cup of chopped ripe mango or banana to the pongal. This will add a natural sweetness and fruity flavor to the dish.
• Creamy Coconut: Replace the fresh coconut pieces with coconut milk for a richer and creamier texture.
• Herbs and Spices: Experiment with the addition of fresh herbs like curry leaves or cilantro, and spices like cinnamon and cloves to create a unique flavor profile.
• Savory Option: If you prefer a savory version, skip the jaggery and add some freshly ground black pepper and cumin for a delicious savory twist to the traditional sweet pongal.

How to Store Kavuni Arise Pongal

• Properly store Kavuni Arisi: Store the Kavuni Arisi in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to maintain its freshness and prevent it from becoming stale.
• Keep Fresh Coconut Pieces fresh: Store fresh coconut pieces in the refrigerator to keep them from spoiling quickly. You can also freeze the coconut pieces for longer shelf life.
• Maintain the freshness of Jaggery: To keep jaggery fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture. You can also refrigerate it if you live in a humid climate.
• Preserve the flavor of Cardamoms: To maintain the flavor of cardamoms, store them in a cool, dark place in an airtight container. Alternatively, you can store them in the freezer for extended freshness.
• Keep Ghee fresh: Store ghee in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. Make sure to use a clean, dry spoon to scoop out the ghee each time to prevent contamination.
• Maintain the quality of the cooked Pongal: If you have leftovers, store the cooked pongal in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove for a quick and delicious meal later.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long should I soak the kavuni arisi?

• You should soak the kavuni arisi in lots of water overnight or at least for 8 hours to ensure it cooks properly and has the right texture.

Can I adjust the sweetness of the pongal?

• Yes, you can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less powdered jaggery according to your taste preferences.

What if I don't have a pressure cooker?

• If you don't have a pressure cooker, you can cook the kavuni arisi in a regular pot. Just cook it over low heat and keep an eye on the water level.

Is it necessary to add ghee to the pongal?

• Adding ghee enhances the flavor of the pongal, but if you prefer a healthier option, you can omit it or use a small amount.

Can I add other nuts or dried fruits to the pongal?

• Yes, you can customize the pongal by adding your choice of nuts, such as cashews or almonds, and dried fruits like raisins or dried cranberries for extra flavor and texture.

How should I store the leftover pongal?

• Store the leftover pongal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, add a little water to maintain the creamy texture.

Furthermore, I would like to share some of my suggestions for a perfect Kavuni arisi sweet. Firstly, black Kavuni rice is very hard rice. So the rice needs to be soaked overnight or for at least 6 hours.  Secondly, you can also add 1/2 cup shredded coconut and 1/2 tsp cardamom powder instead of grinding coconut and cardamoms.
Finally, you can also add white sugar instead of jaggery. And you can also add less sugar if you wish.

Recipe Card

Kavuni Arisi Pongal 2020-05-29 05:50:09

Kavuni Arisi Pongal

Serving Size: 4

Prep Time: 8 hours

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Kavuni Arisi
• 2 cups Water
• 1/4 tsp Salt
• 1/2 cup Fresh Coconut Pieces
• 1/2 cup Jaggery (powdered)
• 3 to 4 Cardamoms
• 1 tsp Ghee

Instructions:

• Wash the rice and soak it in lots of water overnight or at least for 8 hours.
• After 8 hours, drain the water and rinse it couple of times, then transfer the rice to pressure cooker. Add 2 cups of water and pressure cook for 4 to 5 whistles over low medium flame.
• Allow the pressure to settle naturally.
• When you open the lid, there should be little water floating on top. Don’t worry.
• Add salt. Mix the rice gently. The rice should be slightly mushy but the rice should have a bit of bite.
• Meanwhile, place the coconut pieces and cardamoms in a mixie jar and grind it coarsely.
• Then add the powdered jaggery and the coconut mixture to the rice. The mixture will loosen up immediately after adding jaggery.
• Simmer and cook for 2 mins in low flame or until it becomes thick.
• Finally add ghee and cook for 1 minute then switch off the flame and serve hot. Enjoy!

By Santhi Therese

The Indian Claypot

How To Cook Kavuni Arisi Sweet:

Step-By-Step Instructions:

Wash the rice and soak it in lots of water overnight or at least for 6 hours.

Drain the water and rinse it couple of times, then transfer the rice to
pressure cooker. Then add 2 cups of water

and pressure cook for 5 to 6 whistles in low medium flame.
Allow the pressure to settle naturally.

Mix the rice gently. The rice should be slightly mushy but the rice
should have a bit of bite .

Meanwhile, place the coconut pieces and cardamoms in a mixie jar

and grind it coarsely.

Then add the powdered jaggery and the coconut mixture to the rice.
The mixture will loosen up immediately after adding jaggery.

Simmer and cook for 2 mins in low flame or until it becomes thick.Finally, add ghee

and cook for 1 minute then switch off the flame and serve hot. Enjoy!