Recipe for Bellam Undrallu: An Authentic Prasadam for Vinayaka Chavithi

Recipe for Bellam Undrallu: An Authentic Prasadam for Vinayaka Chavithi


# Recipe for Bellam Undrallu with Rice Flour or Rice Rava – Vinayaka Chavithi Prasadam Recipe

Vinayaka Chavithi, also referred to as Ganesh Chaturthi, is an important festival that honors Lord Ganesha, the deity who eliminates obstacles and signifies new beginnings. Among the traditional offerings created for this occasion is Bellam Undrallu, a sweet treat that is not only tasty but also straightforward to make. This guide will walk you through the steps to create Bellam Undrallu using either rice flour or rice rava, making sure your festivities are both delectable and meaningful.

## What is Bellam Undrallu?

Bellam Undrallu, meaning “sweet rice balls” in Telugu, is a classic prasadam (offering) primarily made from rice rava (coarsely ground rice) or rice flour, jaggery (a kind of unrefined sugar), and moong dal (split yellow lentils). This dish is celebrated for its delightful sweetness and is frequently prepared during Ganesh Chaturthi as it is thought to be one of Lord Ganesha’s preferred snacks. Jaggery is the sweetening agent used, providing a deep flavor and serving as a healthier substitute for refined sugar.

## Ingredients

To make Bellam Undrallu, gather the following ingredients:

– **Rice Rava** or **Rice Flour**: 1 cup
– **Jaggery**: 3/4 cup (grated or powdered)
– **Moong Dal**: 1/4 cup (cooked)
– **Water**: 1.5 cups (for cooking)
– **Cardamom Powder**: 1/2 teaspoon (optional, for flavor)
– **Ghee**: 1 tablespoon (for greasing and flavor)

## Preparation Steps

### Step 1: Cook the Moong Dal
1. Thoroughly rinse the moong dal and cook it in water until it is tender. A pressure cooker can be used for quicker cooking. Once cooked, drain any extra water and set aside.

### Step 2: Prepare the Jaggery Syrup
2. In a saucepan, combine the grated jaggery with 1.5 cups of water. Heat the mixture over medium heat until the jaggery is fully dissolved. You can incorporate a pinch of cardamom powder for an enhanced flavor.

### Step 3: Combine Ingredients
3. After the jaggery syrup is ready, gradually add the rice rava (or rice flour) to the syrup, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Cook the mixture on low heat until it thickens and begins to separate from the pan’s sides.

### Step 4: Mix in Moong Dal
4. Fold the cooked moong dal into the thickened mixture and mix thoroughly. Continue cooking for 2-3 more minutes until everything is well incorporated.

### Step 5: Shape the Undrallu
5. Remove the mixture from the heat and allow it to cool slightly. Once it’s cool enough to handle, grease your palms with ghee and shape the mixture into small balls (undrallu).

### Step 6: Steam the Undrallu
6. Arrange the formed undrallu in a steamer or idli maker and steam for about 10-15 minutes until they firm up and are completely cooked.

### Step 7: Serve
7. After steaming, let the undrallu cool slightly before presenting them as prasadam to Lord Ganesha. They can be savored warm or at room temperature.

## Conclusion

Bellam Undrallu is not just a delightful delicacy but also a representation of devotion during the Vinayaka Chavithi festival. The mix of rice, jaggery, and moong dal creates a nourishing and wholesome offering that is sure to delight both the deity and your family. Whether you opt for using rice flour or rice rava, this recipe is adaptable to your tastes. Enjoy making this traditional prasadam and celebrate the spirit of Ganesh Chaturthi with happiness and devotion!

### Additional Ganesh Chaturthi Recipes
If you wish to broaden your festive menu, consider trying these additional recipes:
– [Undrallu](https://www.sailusfood.com/2009/08/24/uppu-kudumulu-undrallu/)
– [Paala Undrallu](https://www.sailusfood.com/2006/08/27/paala-undrallu-kudumulu-vinayaka-chavathi-naivedyam/)
– [Kudumulu](https://www.sailusfood.com/2006/08/27/paala-undrallu-kudumulu-vinayaka-chavathi-naivedyam/)
– [Pulihora](https://www.sailusfood.com/2008/