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Akkaravadisal
Iyengar Temple Sweet Pongal
Origin: Tamil Nadu
Introduction
Akkaravadisal is a rich, creamy rice and dal dessert from Tamil Nadu’s Iyengar temples, made with generous amounts of milk, ghee, and jaggery.
- Cooking Base
Ingredients:
- ½ cup raw rice
- 2 tbsp moong dal
- 3 cups milk
Instructions:
- Cook rice and dal together in milk until soft.
- Adding Sweetness & Ghee
Ingredients:
- ½ cup jaggery (melted and strained)
- 2 tbsp ghee
- 1 tbsp cashews and raisins
- A pinch of cardamom
Instructions:
- Add jaggery syrup to cooked rice. Mix well.
- Add cardamom, ghee, and roasted nuts.
Pro Tips
- Use full-fat milk for creaminess.
- Simmer slowly for a luxurious texture.
Serving Suggestions
- Offered hot during Vaikunta Ekadashi and other festivals.
Fun Fact
Historically prepared in Srirangam temple kitchens as an offering to Lord Ranganatha.