Vishu Kanji: A Traditional Rice Porridge Recipe

Vishu Kanji, a traditional rice porridge, holds a special place in the culinary traditions of Kerala, particularly in the Palakkad region. As Vishu, a significant festival in Kerala, coincides with vacation time, it presents an excellent opportunity to introduce new dishes to the family, especially the kids. Here’s how you can prepare Vishu Kanji at home:

Ingredients:

2 cups rice

First extract of coconut milk

Second extract of coconut milk

Third extract of coconut milk

1/4 cup green gram

1/4 cup puliyavara/butter beans

1/4 cup grated coconut

Preparation:

Wash the rice thoroughly and strain any excess water.

Cook the rice in a pressure cooker. After one whistle, switch off the gas.

Add the third extract of coconut milk to the cooked rice and mix well.

Allow it to cook for one more whistle.

Lightly fry the green gram until it turns brown in color.

Similarly, fry the puliyavara or butter beans until their aroma fills the air.

Grind the fried green gram and puliyavara into a powdered form separately.

Add the second extract of coconut milk to the cooked rice and mix it well.

Now, incorporate the powdered green gram and butter beans into the mixture.

Let the mixture boil for about 5 minutes.

Add the grated coconut and mix thoroughly.

Finally, add the first extract of coconut milk and cook for an additional 2 minutes.

Season with salt according to taste.

Optionally, you can add sugar if you prefer a sweeter taste, especially for the kids.

Serving Suggestion:

Vishu Kanji pairs wonderfully with Chakka Puzhukku, another traditional dish made with ripe jackfruit. The combination of these two dishes creates a wholesome and flavorful meal that embodies the essence of Vishu festivities.

Preparing Vishu Kanji at home allows you to partake in the age-old culinary customs of Kerala while delighting your taste buds with its rich flavors and textures. Enjoy this hearty and nourishing dish with your family as you celebrate the spirit of Vishu.