Bellam Atukulu in no-cook style is a quick prasadam where poha is simply mixed with grated jaggery, coconut, and ghee. This version is especially popular for Janmashtami as Lord Krishna is fond of poha. It is also a common naivedyam during Vinayaka Chavithi.
Recipe
Ingredients
- Atukulu (Poha / Flattened rice) – 1 cup
- Bellam (Jaggery, grated) – ½ to ¾ cup (as per taste)
- Fresh grated coconut – 2 tbsp
- Ghee – 1 tbsp
- Cardamom powder – ½ tsp
- Cashews or raisins – optional
Preparation Steps
- Wash poha once quickly, drain, and set aside for 5 minutes to soften.
- In a bowl, add softened poha, grated jaggery, coconut, and cardamom powder.
- Pour melted ghee over it and mix gently.
- Garnish with cashews or raisins if using.
- Offer as prasadam or serve immediately.
Health Benefits
- Natural sweetener: Jaggery provides iron and minerals.
- Quick energy: Poha is a light and instant source of carbs.
- No cooking required: Simple, healthy, and easy to prepare.
- Ideal prasadam: Sattvic, pure, and festival-friendly.
Tips
- Use medium or thin poha; thick poha takes longer to soften.
- Always grate fresh jaggery for even mixing.
- Add a pinch of black pepper powder for traditional touch in some households.
- Best consumed fresh, not stored for long.
Variations
- Milk version: Add little warm milk instead of ghee for a softer texture.
- Dry fruit mix: Mix in almonds, cashews, or raisins for richness.
- Festival version: Add tulasi leaves when offering to Lord Krishna.