MASALA CHEEYAM

            Chettinad food is famous for its spicyness & aroma. Masala cheeyam is a tasty item which will surely take place in Chettinad menu during marriages. It can be prepared both in Sweet & Savoury version.

I am posting the Savoury version. Though it is a deep fried one, it will not absorb oil. It will be crispy outside & very soft inside. The dough consistency should neither be thick nor watery. The batter should be light & it should have dropping consisitency. 

INGREDIENTS

RAW RICE	1 Cup
URAD DHAL	¾ Cup
SALT	To Taste
OIL	To Deep Fry

To  Temper

MUSTARD  SEEDS	1 Tsp
URAD DHAL	1 Tsp
FINELY CHOPPED SMALL ONIONS	½ Cup
CHOPPED GREEN CHILLY	3
GRATED COCONUT	2 Tbsp
CURRY LEAVES	Few
OIL	1 Tsp

PROCEDURE

• Soak Raw rice & Urad dhal for 1 hr. Grind it to a smooth batter by adding water little by little. Add Salt while grinding the Batter.
• In a pan heat oil (1 Tsp) & add the items one by one given under the "To Temper" table.
• After adding Coconut give a quick stir & switch it off the flame immediately.
• Now pour the Tempered items into dough. Mix well
• Heat Oil in a Kadai (To Deep fry) .When it gets heated drop the dough into small rounds (No need to worry about the shape). 
• Keep the flame in medium so that it gets cooked evenly.
• Remove it off when it turns golden brown.
• Serve with Thakkali Chutney.