Kodbel Pitha
Kodbel Pitha is a traditional Bengali sweet dish, often enjoyed during festive occasions or family gatherings. It is made from the pulp of the Indian bael fruit, locally known as 'Kodbel'. This pitha has been a part of Bengali culinary heritage for centuries, cherished for its sweet and aromatic flavor. Kodbel Pitha not only satisfies the sweet tooth but also comes with the nutritional benefits of Bael, which is rich in vitamins and antioxidants.
Ingredients
- Kodbel (Indian Bael) pulp - 2 cups
- Rice flour - 1 cup
- Jaggery - 1 cup
- Grated coconut - 1 cup
- Water - 1 cup
- Cardamom powder - 1 teaspoon
- Ghee - 2 tablespoons
Preparation
Step 1: Preparing the Kodbel Pulp
To start, acquire fresh Kodbel. Break the fruit open and scoop out the pulp. Make sure to remove any seeds and fibrous strands for a smooth consistency. Place the pulp in a bowl and set it aside.
Step 2: Heating the Jaggery
In a saucepan, combine jaggery with water. Heat the mixture on a medium flame, stirring continuously until the jaggery melts completely and forms a syrup. Set aside to cool slightly.
Cooking Process
Step 1: Mixing the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared Kodbel pulp, rice flour, and jaggery syrup. Mix well to form a smooth batter. Add the cardamom powder to enhance the flavor.
Step 2: Incorporating Grated Coconut
Gently fold in the grated coconut into the batter. This will provide a rich texture and subtle sweetness to the pitha.
Step 3: Greasing the Cooking Dish
Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Grease a baking dish with ghee to prevent the batter from sticking.
Step 4: Baking the Pitha
Pour the batter into the greased dish and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes, until the top is golden brown and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Track the time using a cooking timer.
Enjoying Kodbel Pitha
Allow the pitha to cool slightly before cutting it into pieces. Serve warm or at room temperature, adorned with a drizzle of ghee for added aroma and richness. This pitha can be enjoyed with a cup of tea or as a dessert after meals.
Kodbel Pitha is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a sentimental nod to Bengali tradition, making it a perfect addition to any sweet platter.