Uttar Pradesh-style Sweet Rice Dumplings

Ingredients

While the original Kagami mochi is made with a layer of pounded rice cake, the Uttar Pradesh-style sweet rice dumplings are made with glutinous rice flour. Additionally, the filling of khoya, cardamom, and saffron adds a distinct flavor profile that is unique to Uttar Pradesh cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Kagami mochi, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (400g) glutinous rice flour 2 cups (400g) glutinous rice flour
• 1 cup (200g) khoya (reduced milk solids) 1 cup (200g) khoya (reduced milk solids)
• 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
• A pinch of saffron strands A pinch of saffron strands
• Ghee (clarified butter) for greasing Ghee (clarified butter) for greasing
• Sugar syrup for soaking Sugar syrup for soaking

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 35g, 15g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour with water to form a smooth dough.
2. 2.
   Divide the dough into small portions and shape them into balls.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, mix the khoya, cardamom powder, and saffron strands to form a smooth filling.
4. 4.
   Take each rice ball and flatten it with your fingers. Place a small amount of the khoya filling in the center and seal the edges to form a dumpling.
5. 5.
   Steam the dumplings for about 15-20 minutes until they are cooked and become translucent.
6. 6.
   Remove the dumplings from the steamer and allow them to cool slightly.
7. 7.
   Soak the dumplings in warm sugar syrup for at least 30 minutes to enhance their sweetness and flavor.
8. 8.
   Serve the sweet rice dumplings warm or at room temperature, garnished with chopped nuts if desired.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Glutinous rice flour — Make sure to use glutinous rice flour specifically, as it provides the desired chewy texture for the dumplings.
• Khoya — If khoya is not available, you can make it at home by simmering milk until it reduces to a solid consistency.

Tips & Tricks

• To enhance the flavor, you can add a few drops of rose water or kewra water to the sugar syrup.
• For a festive touch, garnish the dumplings with edible silver foil (varak) before serving.
• If the dough becomes too sticky, dust your hands with glutinous rice flour while shaping the dumplings.
• Ensure the dumplings are sealed properly to prevent the filling from leaking during steaming.
• Serve the sweet rice dumplings warm for the best taste and texture.

Serving advice

Serve the Uttar Pradesh-style sweet rice dumplings as a dessert or sweet treat during festive occasions or celebrations. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of flavors.

Presentation advice

Arrange the sweet rice dumplings on a serving platter, garnished with chopped nuts and a drizzle of sugar syrup. You can also place a few saffron strands on top for an elegant touch. Serve them in small individual bowls or on traditional Indian brass plates for an authentic presentation.