Ada Pradhaman Recipe: A Sweet South Indian Delight

Ada Pradhaman is a traditional Kerala dessert, a creamy and rich payasam made with rice flakes (ada), coconut milk, and jaggery. This sweet treat is a festive favorite, perfect for celebrations like Onam or any special occasion. The cozy flavors are so comforting, everyone will want another helping!

  • Servings: 6 Serving
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Cool Time: 10 minutes
  • Chill Time: None
  • Total Time: 55 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 cup rice ada (available in Indian grocery stores)
  • 1 cup jaggery, grated or chopped
  • 2 cups thin coconut milk (second extract)
  • 1 cup thick coconut milk (first extract)
  • 2 tablespoons ghee
  • 10-12 cashew nuts
  • 2 tablespoons raisins
  • 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
  • 1 tablespoon coconut slivers (optional, for garnish)
  • 4 cups water

Step-By-Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Rice Ada

Wash the rice ada well under cold water to get rid of extra starch. Now, boil 4 cups of water in a saucepan, add the rice ada, and cook it for 8–10 minutes until it turns soft but not too mushy. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Melt the Jaggery

Melt the grated jaggery in a small pan with half a cup of water. Heat on low, stirring until the jaggery dissolves completely. Strain to remove impurities and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Ada

In a large, heavy-bottomed pan, heat 1 tablespoon of ghee. Add the cooked ada and sauté for 2-3 minutes to coat it with ghee. This enhances the flavor.

Step 4: Add Coconut Milk

Add the thin coconut milk (second extract) and let it slowly come to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the ada absorbs the milk and the mixture thickens slightly.

Step 5: Incorporate Jaggery

Slowly add the melted jaggery to the pan, stirring well to combine. Let it simmer for another 5-7 minutes until the mixture blends smoothly.

Step 6: Add Thick Coconut Milk

Pour in the thick coconut milk (first extract) and stir gently. Let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, but don’t let it boil, or it may curdle. Add cardamom powder and mix well.

Step 7: Fry the Garnishes

Warm the last spoonful of ghee in a small pan. Fry the cashew nuts until golden, then add raisins and fry until they puff up. If using coconut slivers, fry them lightly until crisp.

Step 8: Final Touch

Pour the fried cashews, raisins, and coconut slivers (if using) into the pradhaman. Stir gently and remove from heat.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Let the ada pradhaman cool for 10 minutes before serving. Serve warm in bowls for the best experience.

Ada Pradhaman
Image – Canva

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Servings Per Recipe: 6

NutrientAmount% Daily Value*
Calories320 kcal
Total Fat18g23%
Saturated Fat14g70%
Cholesterol8mg3%
Sodium20mg1%
Total Carbohydrate38g14%
Dietary Fiber1g4%
Total Sugars22g
Protein3g6%
Vitamin C1mg1%
Calcium20mg2%
Iron1mg6%
Potassium150mg3%
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Nutrient information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Final Thought

Ada Pradhaman isn’t just a dessert; it’s like a sweet, comforting hug from the heart of Kerala. Its rich, coconutty sweetness paired with the crunch of cashews and raisins makes every bite a celebration. Whether you’re making it for a festival or a cozy family gathering, this recipe is sure to bring smiles and satisfy sweet cravings. Enjoy this delightful treat and share the love!

Also Read: The Easiest Chocolate Biscuit Cake Recipe (No Egg, No Bake!)

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