Make this monsoon’s sweeter with Bhapa Pitha Recipe

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One popular Assamese dish that is enjoyed during the monsoon season is “Bhapa Pitha.” Bhapa Pitha is a steamed rice cake made with fermented rice batter and typically filled with a mixture of jaggery (unrefined cane sugar) and grated coconut. It is a traditional delicacy that is commonly prepared in Assam during festivals like Bihu.

To make Bhapa Pitha, follow these steps:

bhapa pitha rice cake

Bhapa Pitha

Bhapa Pitha is a steamed rice cake made with fermented rice batter and typically filled with a mixture of jaggery (unrefined cane sugar) and grated coconut. It is a traditional delicacy that is commonly prepared in Assam during festivals like Bihu.
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Prep Time 5 hours
Course Dessert
Cuisine Assamese, Indian
Servings 4 people
Calories 200 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Mixing Bowl
  • 1 Baking Dish

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups of soaked rice preferably fragrant rice like Joha rice
  • 1 cup jaggery grated or finely chopped
  • 1 cup grated coconut
  • Water as needed
  • Banana leaves for wrapping optional

Instructions
 

  • Soak the rice in water for at least 3-4 hours or overnight. Drain the water and grind the soaked rice into a smooth batter using a blender or grinder. Add water as needed to make a thick batter with a pouring consistency.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the jaggery and grated coconut to make the filling.
  • Grease a round or square baking dish or a steel container that is suitable for steaming.
  • Pour a thin layer of the rice batter into the greased dish.
  • Add a generous amount of the jaggery-coconut filling on top of the batter, spreading it evenly.
  • Cover the filling with another layer of the rice batter, ensuring that the filling is completely enclosed.
  • Place the dish in a steamer or in a large pot with a steamer basket. Steam for about 30-40 minutes or until the rice cake is cooked and firm.
  • Once done, remove the dish from the steamer and allow it to cool for a few minutes.
  • Cut the steamed rice cake into desired shapes, such as squares or diamond shapes.
  • Serve Bhapa Pitha warm or at room temperature. It can be enjoyed on its own or with a cup of tea.

Notes

If banana leaves are available, you can use them to wrap the Bhapa Pitha before steaming. This imparts a subtle aroma to the dish. However, if banana leaves are not accessible, you can still make the dish without them.
Keyword Assamese Pitha, Rice Cake

Here is a rough estimate of the nutritional information for Bhapa Pitha per serving (approximately 1 piece):

  • Calories: Around 150-200 calories
  • Carbohydrates: Approximately 35-40 grams
  • Protein: About 2-3 grams
  • Fat: Around 2-4 grams
  • Fiber: Approximately 1-2 grams
  • Sugar: Around 10-15 grams

Please note that these values can vary depending on the specific ingredients used and the portion size. Additionally, the nutritional content may differ based on the jaggery and coconut used in the recipe. It’s always a good idea to check the labels of the specific ingredients you use to get more accurate information.

While Bhapa Pitha is a delicious traditional dish, it is important to enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.