Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups Rice flour (Puttu podi)
- 1 cup (washed and chopped) Fresh moringa leaves
- ½ cup Grated coconut
- Salt – as needed
- Water – as needed (lukewarm)
- Banana leaves – cut into medium pieces and softened over flame
🔥 For steaming
- Puttu kutti or idli steamer
- Optional: A piece of banana stem or small perforated steel plate for the base
Directions
Moringa Ela Puttu is a wholesome and nutritious Kerala-style breakfast or snack that combines the goodness of rice flour and fresh moringa (drumstick) leaves, steamed to perfection in banana leaves. Known for its vibrant green color and rich flavor, this dish is packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a perfect choice for a healthy, filling meal.
The puttu is layered with grated coconut and salt, then wrapped in aromatic banana leaves, adding an earthy fragrance during the steaming process. The dish is naturally gluten-free, vegan, and can be served with a variety of accompaniments like kadala curry, ripe bananas, or ghee and sugar for a delightful contrast of flavors.
Whether enjoyed for breakfast, as a midday snack, or even during special occasions, Moringa Ela Puttu offers a simple yet delicious way to incorporate more leafy greens into your diet. It’s an easy-to-make dish with minimal ingredients but a whole lot of flavor!
Approximate Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150-180 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 32-35g |
| Protein | 2-4g |
| Fat | 3-5g |
| Saturated Fat | 1-2g |
| Fiber | 2-3g |
| Sugar | 1-2g |
| Sodium | 150-200mg |
| Iron | 1.5-2mg |
| Calcium | 20-30mg |
| Vitamin A | 500-700 IU |
Notes:
The nutritional values can vary depending on the amount of coconut and any side dishes (e.g., curry or bananas) served alongside the puttu.
Moringa leaves are a great source of iron, calcium, and other micronutrients, making this dish a healthy, nutrient-dense option.
The nutritional information provided for Moringa Ela Puttu is an estimate based on standard ingredients and serving sizes. Variations in ingredients, portion sizes, and preparation methods may affect the actual nutritional values. For accurate nutritional information, please consult a healthcare professional or nutritionist.
This recipe is intended for general informational purposes and should not be used as a substitute for professional advice.
Steps
1 Done | 🧑🍳 Prepare the rice flour mixIn a bowl, mix puttu podi with salt. Gradually sprinkle lukewarm water and mix with your fingers until it resembles wet sand. It should hold shape when pressed but crumble easily. Add chopped moringa leaves and mix well. |
2 Done | Assemble the Ela PuttuTake a piece of banana leaf. Spread a thin layer of coconut. Add a layer of the rice-moringa mix on top. Repeat layers if desired. Fold and secure the leaf like a parcel or roll (can tie with banana fiber or toothpick). |
3 Done | Steam the puttuPlace the parcels in a steamer or idli cooker. Steam for 15–20 minutes on medium heat until the aroma spreads and the puttu is cooked through. |
4 Done | Serve hotGently open the banana leaf and serve warm. Best enjoyed with kadala curry, banana, or ghee and sugar. |
5 Done | 🌟 TipsYou can substitute rice flour with red rice or ragi flour for variation. Adding a pinch of cumin or fennel seeds gives extra flavor. Make sure the moringa leaves are young and tender. |
