Introduction
When it comes to traditional South Indian breakfasts, few dishes are as comforting and wholesome as the Kerala Style Rice Puttu Recipe. Soft, crumbly, and lightly steamed, puttu is a beloved dish that perfectly represents the simplicity and richness of Kerala cuisine.
Made using coarsely ground rice flour and fresh coconut, puttu is not only delicious but also healthy and filling. It is typically served with kadala curry (black chickpea curry), ripe bananas, or even a drizzle of sugar and ghee, making it a versatile dish that suits every taste.
If you’ve ever wanted to recreate this authentic Kerala breakfast at home, this detailed guide will walk you through everything—from ingredients and preparation to expert tips, variations, and serving ideas.
What is Kerala Style Rice Puttu?
The Kerala Style Rice Puttu Recipe is a traditional steamed dish made by layering moistened rice flour with grated coconut and cooking it in a cylindrical steamer called a puttu maker.
Unlike many other breakfast dishes, puttu is oil-free and relies entirely on steam for cooking. This gives it a soft, fluffy texture while retaining the natural flavor of rice and coconut.
Kerala Style Rice Puttu Recipe – 9 Easy Steps to Soft, Fluffy & Authentic Puttu

Why You Should Try Kerala Style Rice Puttu Recipe
Here’s why this Kerala Style Rice Puttu Recipe deserves a place in your kitchen:
1. Healthy and Nutritious
Puttu is steamed, making it a low-fat and wholesome meal.
2. Gluten-Free
Made with rice flour, it is perfect for those avoiding gluten.
3. Simple Ingredients
Requires only a few basic ingredients.
4. Easy to Prepare
With the right technique, it can be made quickly at home.
5. Versatile Dish
Can be paired with both sweet and savory sides.
Ingredients for Kerala Style Rice Puttu Recipe
To prepare soft and authentic puttu, you will need:
- 2 cups rice flour
- 1 cup grated coconut
- Salt to taste
- Water as required
How to Prepare Puttu Flour
Step 1: Moisten the Flour
Sprinkle water gradually into the rice flour and mix well.
Step 2: Check Texture
The flour should be moist but crumbly, not doughy.
Step 3: Add Salt
Mix salt evenly into the flour.
Step-by-Step Kerala Style Rice Puttu Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Steamer
Fill the puttu maker with water and heat it.
Step 2: Layer Coconut
Add a layer of grated coconut at the bottom.
Step 3: Add Rice Flour
Add a layer of prepared rice flour.
Step 4: Repeat Layers
Alternate coconut and flour layers.
Step 5: Steam the Puttu
Attach the cylinder to the steamer and cook for 5–7 minutes.
Step 6: Check for Doneness
Steam will start escaping from the top when done.
Step 7: Remove Carefully
Push the puttu out gently using a stick.
Step 8: Serve Hot
Serve immediately for best taste.
Step 9: Enjoy with Sides
Pair with curry, banana, or sugar.
Tips for Perfect Kerala Style Rice Puttu
- Use good-quality rice flour
- Maintain the right moisture level
- Do not overfill the steamer
- Use fresh coconut for best flavor
- Serve immediately after steaming
Health Benefits of Kerala Style Rice Puttu
The Kerala Style Rice Puttu Recipe is not just delicious but also offers several health benefits:
1. Easy to Digest
Steamed food is gentle on the stomach.
2. Provides Energy
Rice offers carbohydrates for sustained energy.
3. Low in Fat
No oil is used in preparation.
4. Rich in Fiber
Coconut adds fiber and aids digestion.
Variations of Kerala Style Rice Puttu
1. Wheat Puttu
Made using wheat flour instead of rice.
2. Ragi Puttu
A healthier option using finger millet.
3. Sweet Puttu
Includes jaggery and banana for sweetness.
4. Stuffed Puttu
Layered with fillings like coconut and sugar.
Best Side Dishes for Kerala Style Rice Puttu
The Kerala Style Rice Puttu Recipe pairs perfectly with:
- Kadala curry
- Banana
- Sugar and ghee
- Coconut milk
Storage and Shelf Life
- Best consumed fresh
- Can be stored for a few hours
- Avoid refrigeration as it becomes dry
- Reheat by steaming
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Adding too much water
- Using dry flour
- Overcooking or undercooking
- Not layering properly
- Using stale coconut
Nutritional Value (Approximate)
Per serving of Kerala Style Rice Puttu Recipe:
- Calories: 180–220
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 3–4g
- Fat: 4–5g
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make puttu without a puttu maker?
Yes, you can use a steamer or idli cooker.
2. Why is my puttu dry?
Insufficient moisture in the flour.
3. Can I use store-bought puttu flour?
Yes, it works well.
4. Is puttu healthy?
Yes, it is steamed and low in fat.
Conclusion
The Kerala Style Rice Puttu Recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a nourishing and satisfying meal. With its soft texture, subtle flavor, and versatility, it’s a dish that continues to be loved across generations.
Whether you enjoy it with spicy curry or sweet accompaniments, puttu is a must-try recipe that brings the authentic taste of Kerala right into your home.
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