Ada Pradhaman – The King of Kerala Payasams

 

Introduction:
Made with rice ada, jaggery, and coconut milk, Ada Pradhaman is often called the king of payasams. It’s the highlight of every Onam sadya and a staple in temple feasts.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rice ada

• 1.5 cups jaggery

• 2 cups thick coconut milk

• 1.5 cups medium coconut milk

• 2 cups thin coconut milk

• 2 tbsp ghee

• 10 cashews

• 10 raisins

• ¼ tsp cardamom powder

Method:

1. Cook the ada: Boil water and cook rice ada till soft. Drain and rinse in cold water.

2. Melt jaggery in a little water, strain impurities.

3. Mix ada with jaggery syrup, cook for 5–7 mins.

4. Add thin coconut milk, simmer till absorbed.

5. Add medium and thick coconut milk, simmer gently (don’t boil).

6. Add cardamom, ghee-fried cashews, and raisins.

7. Serve warm or chilled.

Pro Tip: Roast a few coconut bits in ghee and add for temple-style texture.