Ramassery Idli – A Unique Culinary Tradition of Palakkad
Ramassery idli is a distinctive and traditional dish from the village of Ramassery in Palakkad, Kerala. Unlike the typical round idlis, Ramassery idlis are flatter and resemble dosas in shape. They are renowned for their soft, fluffy texture and unique preparation method, which includes steaming over muslin cloths stretched over earthen pots, contributing to their signature meshed pattern on the underside.
A Legacy Over 200 Years Old
The origins of Ramassery idli trace back over 200 years to a community of Mudaliar families who migrated from Tamil Nadu to Kerala. These families, originally weavers by profession, settled in Ramassery and brought with them the recipe for this unique idli. While the men continued weaving, the women brought with them exceptional culinary skills, creating this unique idli recipe that soon became integral to the village’s identity. As the weaving industry declined, the Mudaliar families shifted their livelihood towards making and selling these idlis, initially catering to laborers and farm workers. Over time, Ramassery Idli gained fame beyond the village, attracting food lovers from across Kerala and beyond.
Preparation and Ingredients
The preparation of Ramassery idli involves soaking ingredients like idli rice, raw rice, urad dal, and fenugreek separately for several hours. The soaked ingredients are then ground to a coarse batter, which is left to ferment for about six hours. The batter is poured onto a muslin cloth stretched over an earthen pot, and the idlis are steamed by trapping steam with another pot placed on top . This steaming technique, along with covering the batter with another earthen pot, ensures the idlis cook evenly from top to bottom, giving them their soft, velvety texture.
Ramassery Idli Today
Today, Ramassery Idli remains a sought-after delicacy, often served in local tea shops and specialty restaurants. Its shelf life of 3-4 days makes it ideal for travelers and a convenient yet wholesome meal. Food enthusiasts and chefs alike celebrate Ramassery Idli for its unique blend of history, culture, and flavor – a true culinary gem from Kerala’s Palakkad district.
