According to Hindu mythology, Kalpavriksha is a tree that grows in the garden of Devendra, the King of Gods. The literal meaning of Kalpavriksha, is the tree that fulfills every needs.
The Coconut tree, is known as the Kalpavriksha on earth, as every part of it is useful in one way or the other. We, the people of Kerala cannot think of a day without using either coconuts or any other part of the tree, and hence the title bestowed upon it is really appropriate, in every respect.
Because of Kera vriksha, the Coconut tree, our state Kerala has got it’s name ( Kera – alam means the land of coconut ). In Malayalam, our official language, the name is Keralam. As the terrain and climate are suitable for the growth of coconut, it is one of the main cash crops that adds revenue to the state. A large number of farmers are engaged in coconut cultivation, and the products are highly in demand within the state as well as for exporting.
Being a Satvik fruit, coconut has got ritual importance and is used as an important item for performing poojas on auspicious occasions. Breaking a coconut in front of Lord Ganesha ( the Vighneswara, who dispels Vighnas or obstacles ), is a custom to dispel all obstacles before starting any new venture.
Before concluding, I will share with you, the simple recipe of a very delicious coconut snack ‘The Ada’, that children as well as grown ups will enjoy with evening tea.
Preparation and cooking time – 45 minutes
Ingredients:
- Rice flour. – 1 cup
- Ghee – 1/2 tea spoon
- Salt – to taste
- Boiling water – as needed
- For filling :
- Grated coconut – 1 1/2 cup
- Grated jaggery -1/2 cup
- Cumin seeds – ¼ tea spoon
- Cardamom powder – ¼ tea spoon
- Dried ginger powder – ¼ tea spoon
A few pieces of banana leaves are also needed for wrapping.
How to prepare:
Put rice flour, ghee and salt in a pan and stir well with a spoon adding boiling water little by little, to make a thick dough,and keep it aside. In another pan mix together all ingredients for filling. Take a few pieces of clean banana leaf . Make the dough a little more soft with hands, roll it into small balls and flatten evenly on the leaf. Spread the coconut filling over the dough and fold it securely. Steam it for ten to fifteen minutes, and your delicious ‘Ada’ is ready.
Have it with a sweet smile
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