At Shalimar, we take pride in bringing authentic regional delicacies to your table. One such traditional favorite is nool puttu, a soft and delicate steamed rice noodle preparation loved across South India and Sri Lanka. Light, fluffy, and beautifully textured, this dish is often enjoyed for breakfast or as a comforting evening meal. Its simplicity, subtle flavor, and versatility make it a timeless addition to any dining experience.
If you are looking for a traditional nool puttu recipe that captures authenticity and freshness, you will appreciate how this humble dish transforms basic ingredients into something truly special.
What is Nool Puttu?
Nool puttu, also known as string hoppers in some regions, is made from rice flour dough that is pressed into thin noodle-like strands and then steamed. The word “nool” means thread, referring to its fine, delicate texture. The soft, lace-like nests are typically served with vegetable curries, coconut milk, or flavorful gravies.
At Shalimar, we prepare nool puttu using high-quality rice flour and traditional techniques to maintain its authentic taste and texture. The result is light, airy strands that are perfectly steamed and ready to pair with your favorite side dishes.
Ingredients for Nool Puttu Recipe
Preparing this dish at home requires only a few simple ingredients:
- 2 cups roasted rice flour
- 1½ cups hot water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Fresh grated coconut (optional, for layering)
The simplicity of the ingredient list makes this nool puttu recipe easy to recreate in your own kitchen.
Step-by-Step Nool Puttu Recipe
1. Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, mix rice flour and salt. Gradually add hot water while stirring continuously. Knead gently until a soft, smooth dough forms. The dough should be moist but not sticky.
2. Use a Nool Puttu Maker
To shape the noodles, use a traditional nool puttu maker. Fill the dough inside the press and squeeze it over small idli plates or steamer trays in circular motions to create thin, thread-like strands.
If you don’t have a traditional tool, a nool puttu machine or a sev press with fine holes can also be used to achieve similar results.
3. Steam the Puttu
Place the trays in a steamer and cook for about 8–10 minutes until the noodles become soft and fully cooked. Avoid over-steaming to maintain their delicate texture.
4. Serve Fresh
Once steamed, gently remove and serve warm with coconut milk, vegetable curry, or spicy gravies.
This classic nool puttu recipe results in soft, fluffy nests that are both light and satisfying.
The Role of Nool Puttu Maker and Machine
Traditionally, families use a hand-operated nool puttu maker to press the dough into fine strands. This tool ensures uniform thickness and authentic texture. Modern kitchens may also use a nool puttu machine for quicker preparation, especially in restaurants where larger quantities are required.
At Shalimar, we use reliable kitchen equipment to maintain consistency while preserving the traditional appearance and softness of the dish.
For those mindful of their diet, nool puttu calories are relatively moderate. Since it is steamed and made primarily from rice flour, it is light and easy to digest. A serving typically contains around 150–200 calories, depending on portion size and accompaniments.
Because it is steamed rather than fried, it remains a healthier choice compared to many heavy breakfast dishes. Pairing it with vegetable-based curries further enhances its nutritional balance.
Serving Suggestions at Shalimar
At Shalimar, we serve nool puttu with a variety of flavorful accompaniments to enhance your dining experience. Some popular pairings include:
- Vegetable kurma
- Mild coconut milk with jaggery
- Lentil-based gravies
- Spiced chickpea curry
The soft texture of the noodles absorbs flavors beautifully, making each bite satisfying and aromatic.
If you are preparing this dish at home, keep these tips in mind:
- Always use roasted rice flour for better texture.
- Add hot water gradually to achieve the right dough consistency.
- Do not over-knead the dough.
- Steam just until cooked to maintain softness.
- Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Following these steps ensures your nool puttu turns out light and fluffy every time.
Why Choose Nool Puttu at Shalimar?
At Shalimar, we focus on authenticity and freshness. Our nool puttu is prepared daily using carefully selected rice flour and traditional steaming methods. The delicate strands are crafted to perfection, offering a soft and airy texture that pairs beautifully with our flavorful curries.
We believe in serving dishes that reflect regional culinary heritage while maintaining high standards of quality. Whether you’re enjoying a family meal or exploring new flavors, this dish promises a comforting and satisfying experience.
Nool puttu is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of simplicity and tradition. Its delicate strands, mild flavor, and versatile pairings make it suitable for any time of the day. Light yet filling, it represents the beauty of steamed cuisine in South Indian cooking.
At Shalimar, we invite you to savor the authentic taste of nool puttu prepared with care and expertise. From its soft texture to its wholesome nature, this traditional delicacy continues to delight guests seeking both comfort and flavor.