Tharipola

T haripola is the perfect snack for lazy, hungry evenings. It’s essentially semolina or rava cake, but one that doesn't require an oven to cook. Much like a handvo, batter is poured onto a pan and it’s ready. It’s made by bringing together semolina, eggs, sugar, cardamom powder, ghee, cashew nuts, and raisins. Remember to get creative with the dry fruits and other toppings, including throwing in a few chocolate chips.

The Malabar region boasts several unique, pan-made, fluffy cakes besides the Tharipola, including the Kai Pola, to which plantain is added, the Kadalakka Pola made with chana dal, and Mutta Pola, an iftar favourite, made with eggs, cardamom, and sometimes a tinge of turmeric.

Another cake from the region is the Chattipathiri, a cake where layers of thin Chapatis, laced with sweet, cardamom-flavoured egg and milk batter and sweet scrambled eggs are baked together. The cake is topped generously with nuts, raisins, and poppy seeds.

Born out of this thriving, exciting region, the Tharipola, although a cake, comes with several health benefits, courtesy the base ingredient semolina. Rich in fibre, it increases the feeling of fullness and prevents overeating, which may lead to weight loss. The magnesium in it also protects the heart and reduces risk of heart disease, and regulates blood sugar levels. It's also a great source of iron, which supports growth and better transportation of oxygen. Semolina also aids digestion and promotes regular bowel movements.