KARIKKU PUDDING
Karikku pudding is a delicious sweet dish made with condensed milk, gelatin, milk, sugar and pulp of tender coconut. This is a popular sweet dish that most Keralities prepare at home. Kerala is a well known State abundance with coconut trees and coconuts are extensively used in the Kerala cuisine in different forms.
In Kerala you can even imagine a day without coconut. They play a major role in a traditional Malayalee’s lifestyle and economy. The name Kerala is also derived from the word ‘kera’ which means coconut tree. Tender coconut pulp or the tender coconut is the most delicious and healthy drink which is natural and healthy. Tender coconut water is generally served as a welcome drink for special occasions and celebrations and is considered very royal. Tender coconut dessert is one of the authentic popular sweet delicacies from the Kerala cuisine.
Tender coconut or the pulp has several health benefits and acts as an instant energizer. In summer days, people living in the tropical region depend mostly on tender coconut water to beat the heat and quench their thirst. Most of the times, after drinking the tender coconut water, tender coconut pulp is scooped out of the shell and eaten which has an amazing sweet and refreshing taste. It is smooth, soft and creamy. Generally it is also said that tender pulp cools the body and provides nourishment. It is very easy to digest and reduces acidity. The pulp of tender coconut also helps to boost energy and strength.
Coconut is popularly known as the wonder food and is a perfect diet as it contains all the essential nutrients. Coconut is considered a sacred fruit and holds a high place in all religious rituals. Coconut pulp in anyways like the grated shredded or chunks of fresh coconut meat add a distinctive flavor and texture to any dish. Coconut is used in making a variety of sweets and savory dishes in the Indian cuisine which includes Coconut Chutney, Coconut Chicken, Coconut Fish Fry, Coconut Custard, Coconut Flan, Coconut Burfi, Coconut Souffle, Chocolate Coconut Pecan Coffeecake and many more. A large variety of Indian sweets use coconut meat in various forms while desiccated coconut is used in continental desserts like puddings, custards and trifles.
For preparing this exotic and delicious Karikku pudding, beat tender coconut pulp with sugar until it is soft. Mix milk and condensed milk, warm it and keep aside. Dissolve gelatin in 1 tbsp of hot milk and add to the warm milk mix. Stir in the beaten coconut pulp and mix thoroughly. Pour into a fine mould and keep in the freezer or chiller for 6 hours. Remove from freezer and store in the lower compartment. Serve decorated with chopped nuts.
The karikku pudding is very simple to prepare and fast to cook. Do try this wonderful recipe and do click on the below link for detailed recipe:
http://www.vahrehvah.com/Karikku+Pudding+recipe:477
The coconut is a highly nourishing, strengthening and fattening food. It has a high oil content which is easily digestible. The protein content of coconut is of high quality containing all amino acids. It is also rich in potassium, sodium, magnesium and sulphur. The energy value of the dried coconut is very high. The coconut has several natural benefits and curative properties. As food it is most valuable before it matures. Its jelly like tender kernel contains enzymes and is easily digestible.
