Seaweed Payasam Recipe: A Delicious South Indian Dessert

Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure with a unique twist on a classic South Indian dessert! Seaweed Payasam, a surprising yet delightful fusion of traditional flavors and unexpected ingredients, offers a refreshing and subtly savory take on the creamy richness of payasam. This recipe skillfully blends the delicate sweetness of coconut milk with the surprising umami notes of seaweed, creating a dessert that is both familiar and entirely new. Forget everything you think you know about payasam – this is a recipe that will challenge your palate and leave you craving more.

The seaweed used in this recipe imparts a unique texture and a subtle oceanic taste that complements the sweetness of the other ingredients beautifully. Don't let the unconventional ingredient intimidate you; this recipe is surprisingly simple to follow. Ready to discover the magic of this innovative dessert? Let's dive into the step-by-step guide below to create your own batch of irresistible Seaweed Payasam.

Tools Needed

  • Cooker
  • Bowl
  • Sieve
  • Plate
  • Knife
  • Stove

Ingredients

  • Silky Javanese rice: 1 cup
  • Agar agar grass (seaweed)
  • Sugar: 2 tablespoons (adjust to taste)
  • Ghee
  • Water: 3 cups (for rice) + 1 liter (for seaweed)
  • Cardamom powder: 1 teaspoon
  • Cashew nuts
  • Thick coconut milk

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Preparing the Ingredients

  • Wash and soak the Javanese rice for 10 minutes.
  • Cut the seaweed into small pieces and soak it in 1 liter of water for 10 minutes.
  • Cook the soaked rice in a cooker with 3 cups of water for one whistle.
  • Cut the cooled seaweed jelly into small pieces.
Wash and soak the Javanese rice for 10 minutes.Cut the seaweed into small pieces and soak it in 1 liter of water for 10 minutes.Cook the soaked rice in a cooker with 3 cups of water for one whistle.Cut the cooled seaweed jelly into small pieces.
Preparing the Ingredients

Step 2. Cooking the Payasam

  • Boil the seaweed in the water until it dissolves. This may not require a long boil.
  • Strain the seaweed mixture through a sieve.
  • Cook the rice and seaweed together, adding desired amount of sugar.
  • Add cardamom powder.
Boil the seaweed in the water until it dissolves. This may not require a long boil.Strain the seaweed mixture through a sieve.Cook the rice and seaweed together, adding desired amount of sugar.Add cardamom powder.
Cooking the Payasam

Step 3. Adding Finishing Touches

  • Add roasted cashew nuts.
  • Add thick coconut milk at the end; heat gently, do not boil.
Add roasted cashew nuts.Add thick coconut milk at the end; heat gently, do not boil.
Adding Finishing Touches

Step 4. Serving

  • Serve warm or chilled.
Serve warm or chilled.
Serving

Read more: Vegan Carrot Halwa: Easy Indian Dessert Recipe

Tips

  • Ghee can be applied to the plate to prevent the seaweed jelly from sticking.
  • Adjust the sweetness according to your preference.

Nutrition

  • Calories: approximately 400-500
  • Fat: 15-25g
  • Carbs: 60-75g
  • Protein: 5-8g

FAQs

1. Can I substitute the type of seaweed used in this recipe?

While this recipe uses [Specify Seaweed Type Used in Recipe], you can experiment with other edible seaweeds. However, the flavor profile might change slightly. Choose a seaweed known for its mild flavor to avoid overpowering the sweetness of the payasam.

2. What if I don't have coconut milk? Can I use another milk alternative?

While coconut milk is traditional and enhances the flavor, you can substitute it with full-fat cow's milk or even almond milk. However, the richness and texture may differ slightly.


This Seaweed Payasam recipe offers a unique and delicious twist on a beloved South Indian dessert, proving that culinary innovation can be both surprising and satisfying. The subtle savory notes of the seaweed beautifully complement the traditional sweetness, creating a truly memorable dessert experience. Enjoy this innovative treat and impress your friends and family with this unexpected yet delightful culinary creation!