Back with a Simple Snack - Aval Nanachathu

I have been away for such a long time that its been a struggle to get up, stretch my body and get back in here. But that's exactly what I did. I am starting with baby steps though :)

This is probably the simplest and one of the healthiest snacks you can make and most kids would love it. I know I did, though I always insisted that it be sweeter.



Flattened rice is a dehusked rice which is flattened into flat light dry flakes. These flakes of rice swell when it absorbs water,milk or any other liquids whether hot or cold. The thicknesses of these flakes vary between almost translucently thin to nearly four times thicker than a normal rice grain - Wikipedia.

The ones that I have used here are of the more translucent kind. Its actually flattened basmati rice and predictably, more expensive than the brown or normal white variety. It was a bit chewy and did not get soggy at all.

Flattened Rice (aval/poha) With Coconut and Jaggery

What I Used:

Serves 4

Flattened rice - 5 cups
Coconut - 1 cup
Grated jaggery - 2 cups (or to taste - I like it sweeter)
Milk (I used it at room temperature) - 2 cups
Cardamom (optional) - 2, powdered

How I Made It:

1. Mix the flattened rice with the jaggery until it has blended well. Now mix in the coconut.

2. Add the milk a few spoonfuls at a time and mix well. Using your hands yields best results :)

3. Finally, mix in the cardamom.

If you like it a bit soggy and soft, use warm milk and leave aside for 10-15 mins before serving. This is an easily digestible, healthy snack and can be made in no time. Of course, the addition of coconut makes it extra special for hardcore Kerala food lovers like me :)

I am sending this easy snack to this month's AFAM - Coconut hosted by the talented and lovely Suganya of Tasty Palettes. I continue to be in awe of her photography skills - she makes food look so pretty.