### Bellam Thalikalu – Vinayaka Chavithi Recipe
Bellam Thalikalu is a classic dish from Andhra that is cherished during the Vinayaka Chavithi festival, honoring Lord Ganesha. This scrumptious dish features delicate, handmade noodles called thalikalu, which can be crafted from rice flour, whole wheat flour, or a blend of both with semolina (sooji). The noodles are simmered in a sweet and fragrant jaggery syrup infused with cardamom, and are commonly topped with nuts and roasted poppy seeds. This delicacy is also known as Thalikala Payasam or kheer.
#### Ingredients
– **For the Thalikalu:**
– 1 cup rice flour (or a combination of rice flour, whole wheat flour, and semolina)
– Water (as required for kneading)
– A pinch of salt
– **For the Jaggery Syrup:**
– 1 cup grated jaggery (bellam)
– 2 cups water
– 2-3 crushed green cardamom pods
– 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
– 2 tablespoons roasted poppy seeds
– Chopped nuts (cashews, almonds, etc.) for decoration
#### Instructions
1. **Prepare the Thalikalu:**
– In a mixing bowl, mix the rice flour (or flour blend) with a pinch of salt.
– Slowly add water and knead to create a smooth, flexible dough. The dough should not be overly soft or firm.
– Take small pieces of the dough and roll them into slender, long noodles. You can shape them with your fingers or use a pasta maker if you have one. Set aside.
2. **Make the Jaggery Syrup:**
– In a saucepan, combine the grated jaggery and water. Heat on medium until the jaggery has completely dissolved.
– After the jaggery is dissolved, strain the syrup to eliminate any impurities.
– Return the syrup to the heat and add the crushed cardamom pods. Bring it to a boil.
3. **Cook the Thalikalu:**
– Carefully add the prepared thalikalu to the bubbling jaggery syrup.
– Cook until the thalikalu are thoroughly cooked and the syrup thickens slightly, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.
4. **Garnish and Serve:**
– When cooked, take off the heat and mix in ghee for extra richness.
– Top with roasted poppy seeds and chopped nuts.
– Serve warm as a tribute to Lord Ganesha during Vinayaka Chavithi.
#### Conclusion
Bellam Thalikalu is more than just a tasty dish; it represents devotion during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival. Its sweet taste and distinctive texture make it beloved by many. In addition to this dish, you can try other Andhra-style recipes for Vinayaka Chavithi such as Undrallu, Ammini Kozhukottai, and Bellam Kudumulu to create a celebratory spread. Enjoy the joy of cooking and celebrating this special occasion!