Manjal Iretha Gatti
Aromatic steamed rice dumplings wrapped in turmeric leaves, a specialty from Mangalore. The sweet filling of coconut and jaggery makes this a beloved festive treat.
For 12 servings
5 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Sweet Filling (Hoorna)
- b.In a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat, combine the jaggery powder and 2 tablespoons of water.
- c.Stir continuously for 2-3 minutes until the jaggery melts completely into a syrup.
- d.Add the fresh grated coconut and cardamom powder to the pan. Mix thoroughly to combine.
- e.Cook the mixture for 4-5 minutes, stirring constantly, until it thickens and most of the moisture has evaporated. The mixture should come together as a mass.
- f.Remove from heat and transfer the filling to a bowl. Allow it to cool completely before use.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Prepare the Rice Dough
- b.In a large mixing bowl, combine the rice flour and salt.
- c.Bring 1.25 cups of water to a rolling boil. Carefully and gradually pour the boiling water into the rice flour mixture, stirring with a spatula or wooden spoon.
- d.Continue mixing until a shaggy dough forms. Cover the bowl and let it rest for 5-7 minutes. This allows the flour to absorb the steam and soften.
- e.Once the dough is cool enough to handle, grease your hands with a little ghee or oil and knead for 3-4 minutes until it becomes a soft, smooth, and pliable dough.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Assemble the Gatti
- b.Gently wash the turmeric leaves under running water and pat them dry with a clean cloth.
- c.Divide the prepared dough into 12 equal-sized balls.
- d.Take one turmeric leaf and place a dough ball in the center of its glossy side.
- e.Using your fingertips dipped in a little water, carefully spread the dough into a very thin, even layer across the surface of the leaf.
- f.Place about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons of the cooled coconut-jaggery filling along the center of the dough.
- g.Fold the leaf in half along its central vein, enclosing the filling. Gently press along the edges to seal the gatti.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Steam the Gatti
- b.Prepare a steamer by adding water to the bottom pot and bringing it to a boil.
- c.Arrange the folded gatti in the steamer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded to allow for even cooking. You may need to steam in batches.
- d.Place the basket in the steamer, cover with a lid, and steam on medium-high heat for 12-15 minutes.
- e.The gatti are cooked when the turmeric leaves turn a darker shade of green and release a beautiful aroma. The outer rice covering will be firm and no longer sticky to the touch.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Serve
- b.Turn off the heat and let the gatti rest in the steamer for 5 minutes before removing.
- c.Serve the Manjal Iretha Gatti warm. To eat, gently unwrap the dumpling from the turmeric leaf.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use fresh, tender turmeric leaves for the most intense aroma and flavor.
- 2Spreading the dough as thinly as possible on the leaf is key to a delicate and authentic gatti.
- 3Ensure the water for the dough is boiling hot. This cooks the rice flour slightly, resulting in a softer, more pliable dough.
- 4Do not overcook the coconut-jaggery filling, or it will become hard and chewy upon cooling.
- 5If turmeric leaves are unavailable, banana leaves can be used as a substitute, though the characteristic flavor will be different.
- 6These dumplings are best enjoyed fresh and warm on the day they are made.
Adapt it for your goals.
Filling
Add a tablespoon of roasted sesame seeds or a handful of chopped cashews and raisins to the coconut-jaggery filling for extra texture and flavor.
Savory VersionSavory Version
Create a savory filling with spiced lentils (chana dal), coconut, and green chilies for a different take on this dish.
FlourFlour
For a slightly different texture, you can use brown rice flour or add a tablespoon of fine semolina (rava) to the rice flour.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
The use of turmeric leaves imparts not only a unique aroma but also some of the anti-inflammatory benefits of curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, which may help reduce inflammation in the body.
Natural Sweetener
Jaggery is an unrefined sugar that retains more minerals like iron and magnesium compared to white sugar. It provides sweetness without the chemical processing of refined sugars.
Source of Healthy Fats
Fresh coconut is a good source of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), a type of fat that is more easily digested and used for energy by the body. It also provides dietary fiber.
Frequently asked questions
One piece of Manjal Iretha Gatti contains approximately 140-150 calories, primarily from the rice flour, coconut, and jaggery.