Discover the Soul of Kerala Breakfast: The Irresistible Puttu Recipe

There’s something magical about a steaming cylinder of puttu — simple yet satisfying, humble yet hearty. A beloved breakfast specialty from Kerala, puttu brings together rice flour (or alternatives), fragrant coconut, and just enough steam to turn them into a soft, crumbly delight. In today’s blog post, we’ll walk you step-by-step through how to make authentic Kerala‐style puttu, explore its heritage and serving suggestions, and show you how to elevate your experience with the perfect tool: the fantastic stainless-steel option from Four Brothers.

The Tradition & Heritage of Puttu

Puttu is deeply embedded in Kerala’s culinary identity. Traditionally, it’s prepared by steaming layers of rice flour and grated coconut in a cylindrical mould known as a “puttu kutti” or “puttu maker”. 

Here are a few things that make it special:

• The layering of rice flour + coconut gives it that signature texture and flavour — light, fluffy, just a little crumbly. 
• It’s served both sweet and savoury: with ripe banana, sugar, jaggery for a sweet start, or paired with hearty chickpea (kadala) curry, papadam or even meat gravies for a more filling breakfast. 
• Because it’s steamed (rather than fried), it’s a comparatively lighter breakfast, making it perfect for a wholesome start to the day.

For those keen on authenticity:

“Puttu served with Kadala curry (black chana) is one of the most nutritious South Indian breakfast options.”

Why This Recipe Works: Ingredients & Technique

Here’s a reliable recipe for making Kerala puttu at home — easy to follow, and adaptable if you want to experiment.

Ingredients (for about 2 servings)

• 1 cup rice flour (or “puttu podi”) – coarsely ground and preferably lightly roasted. 
• ½ cup freshly grated coconut
• Salt – about ¼ teaspoon (adjust to taste) 
• Water – roughly ½ cup (or as required) to moisten the flour mixture 

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the flour mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the rice flour and salt. Gradually sprinkle warm water a little at a time, mixing with your fingers until the flour becomes moist and when you press it lightly it holds shape but still crumbles easily. (This is key for getting the right texture.)
2. Layer the mould: Start by adding a small handful of grated coconut into the bottom of your puttu‐maker. Then add a portion of the moistened flour mixture. Then another layer of coconut. Continue alternating flour + coconut until the mould is full, finishing with coconut on top. 
3. Steam it: Fill the base vessel (or steamer) with water and allow it to steam. Place the mould over it and cover, letting the steam cook the layers for about 5–12 minutes (depending on the size of the mould). You’ll know it’s done when you see steady steam expelled from the top. 
4. Demould and serve: Carefully remove the mould, use a skewer or stick to slide the cooked puttu onto a plate. Serve immediately while hot. 

Serving Suggestions

• The classic combo: puttu + kadala (black chickpea) curry + ripe banana. This balances carbs, protein, and sweetness.
• Sweet version: puttu with banana + jaggery or sugar + a drizzle of ghee.
• Variation ideas: Try wheat flour or red rice flour instead of regular rice flour for a different texture and flavour. 

Tips for Best Results

• Don’t over-moisten the flour — if it becomes soggy, the puttu will not steam well.
• Ensure good layering of coconut and flour for texture and aroma.
• Use fresh grated coconut if possible — it elevates the flavour.
• Steam on medium heat so the puttu cooks evenly without drying out or sticking.
• Serve immediately while hot — puttu tends to firm up as it cools.

Take It to the Next Level: The Right Tool

When it comes to making puttu at home, having the right utensil makes a big difference. Enter the excellent offering from Four Brothers: the Four Brothers “Puttu Kodam – Traditional Stainless Steel Puttu Maker” (available on their website).

Here’s why this is a smart investment:

• Made of heavy gauge food-grade stainless steel: durable, safe and long-lasting. 
• Stylish mirror-polished finish and cool-touch bakelite handles for safety and ease of handling.
• Designed with a cylindrical shape for even steam distribution — with this, you can achieve perfectly cooked puttu each time. 
• Compatible with standard stovetops, and easy to clean.

Using this kind of mould helps you replicate the authentic look and texture of Kerala puttu — something that makes a difference, especially if you’re preparing it regularly. Imagine serving up those neat cylindrical stacks of puttu at breakfast — it not only tastes great but also presents beautifully.

Why Choose the Four Brothers Puttu Maker?

• Convenience: No need to improvise with idli plates or mismatched moulds.
• Quality: Stainless steel ensures longevity and hygiene.
• Authenticity: Helps you make puttu that looks and feels like the ones you’d enjoy in Kerala.
• Value: Given how much value this adds to your breakfast spread, it’s a smart kitchen upgrade.

If putting together a breakfast spread for guests, brunching on the weekend, or simply elevating your daily breakfast routine — this tool helps you do it in style.

Bringing It All Together

Whether you’re craving a comforting breakfast, introducing someone to Kerala cuisine, or just looking to add a healthy steamed dish to your repertoire — the puttu recipe delivers. Pair it with warm banana, hearty kadala curry, or even a creative twist like jackfruit varattiyathu + puttu (yes, that works!).

And when you combine the recipe with the right mould — specifically the Four Brothers stainless steel puttu maker — you’ll find your results more consistent, your kitchen time more efficient, and the final dish far more likely to impress.

Final Words & Call to Action

Start your day the Kerala way — with steaming puttu layered with coconut, served hot and fragrant. Gather your rice flour, grate your coconut, and get ready to steam up something special. And to make things even smoother, I encourage you to check out the Four Brothers product: Puttu Kodam – Traditional Stainless Steel Puttu Maker — the link is right here: Four Brothers Puttu Maker

The combination of a trusted recipe + the right equipment = breakfast success. Your kitchen is waiting. Happy cooking!