Putharekulu is a famous traditional sweet from Atreyapuram in Andhra Pradesh. The name comes from two Telugu words: “Putha” meaning coating and “Rekulu” meaning sheets. This sweet is known for its paper-thin rice starch sheets filled with jaggery, ghee, and dry fruits. It is very popular during festivals, weddings, and special occasions.
Making Putharekulu at home requires patience, but the result is a delicate, melt-in-the-mouth sweet with a rich flavor of jaggery and ghee.
Ingredients
For Putharekulu Sheets
- Rice – 1 cup
- Water – as needed
For Filling
- Jaggery – 1 cup (grated)
- Ghee – ½ cup
- Cashews – 2 tbsp (chopped)
- Almonds – 2 tbsp (chopped)
- Cardamom powder – ½ tsp
Preparation Process
Step 1: Prepare Rice Starch Batter
- Wash the rice thoroughly and soak it in water for 6–8 hours.
- Drain the water and grind the soaked rice with enough water to make a smooth batter.
- Strain the batter using a thin cloth into a bowl.
- The liquid collected is rice starch water.
- Let this starch water rest for 3–4 hours without disturbing it.
- After resting, the thick starch settles at the bottom and clear water forms on top.
- Carefully discard the clear water and keep the thick starch paste, which will be used for making sheets.
This starch is the key ingredient that creates the thin, paper-like layers of Putharekulu.
Step 2: Prepare Putharekulu Sheets
- Heat an inverted iron tawa or non-stick pan on a low flame.
- Lightly wipe the surface with a wet cloth so the sheet forms smoothly.
- Dip a clean cotton cloth in the prepared rice starch and squeeze slightly.
- Gently wipe the cloth over the hot tawa surface.
- Instantly, a very thin transparent sheet will form.
- Allow it to dry for a few seconds.
- Carefully peel the sheet off and place it on a plate.
- Repeat the same process to prepare multiple sheets.
These sheets are extremely delicate, so handle them very gently.
Step 3: Prepare the Sweet Filling
- Heat ghee in a pan on low flame.
- Add chopped cashews and almonds.
- Fry lightly until they turn slightly golden.
- Add the grated jaggery and stir continuously.
- Cook until the jaggery melts completely and blends with the nuts.
- Add cardamom powder for fragrance.
- Turn off the flame and allow the mixture to cool slightly.
This filling gives Putharekulu its rich sweetness and crunchy texture.
Step 4: Assemble Putharekulu
- Place one prepared rice sheet flat on a plate.
- Lightly brush ghee over the sheet.
- Add one spoon of jaggery filling in the center.
- Fold the sheet gently into a roll or square shape.
- Repeat the same process for all sheets.
Your traditional Andhra Putharekulu is now ready to serve.
Tips
• Use good quality raw rice to get smooth starch.
• The tawa must be hot but on low flame to form thin sheets.
• Always use a soft cotton cloth to spread the starch evenly.
• Do not add too much filling, or the sheet may tear.
• Brush just a little ghee to keep the sweet light and delicate.
• Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Health Benefits
• Jaggery contains iron and helps improve hemoglobin levels.
• Almonds and cashews provide healthy fats and protein.
• Cardamom helps in digestion and adds natural flavor.
• Compared to many sweets, Putharekulu uses simple natural ingredients.
• Homemade Putharekulu contains no preservatives or artificial flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why are my Putharekulu sheets breaking?
The starch may be too thick or the tawa temperature may be too high.
2. Can I use sugar instead of jaggery?
Yes, but traditional Putharekulu tastes better with jaggery.
3. How long can Putharekulu be stored?
They can be stored in an airtight container for 7–10 days.
4. Why is the sheet not forming on the tawa?
The starch may be too watery or the pan may not be hot enough.
5. Can beginners make Putharekulu at home?
Yes, but it requires practice to make very thin sheets.
6. Which place is famous for Putharekulu?
Atreyapuram in Andhra Pradesh is famous for authentic Putharekulu.
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