Steamed Pittu with Crab

1. 1

   Line a steamer with several layers of cheesecloth and fill with the all purpose flour.

2. 2

   Steam for 45 minutes.

3. 3

   Spread the steamed flour on a baking sheet to cool.

4. 4

   Combine the steamed flour, roasted urad dal flour, and salt in a large bowl.

5. 5

   Add the hot water, a little at a time, stirring with a wooden spoon, until the dough resembles cornmeal (may not need all the water).

6. 6

   Place the mixture in a food processor and pulse until it resembles couscous.

7. 7

   Pour into a large bowl and mix in the crab meat, 1/2 cup grated coconut, shallots and basil.

8. 8

   Pack the Pittu steamer with 1 tablespoon of coconut then 1/2 cup Pittu mix, repeat until the steamer is full.

9. 9

   Steam for 5 to 7 minutes, until the steam comes out the top of the steamer.

10. 10

    Push the Pittu out of the steamer onto a platter.

11. 11

    *Cook's Note: Urad dal flour is ground split white gram beans.

12. 12

    It can be found in Indian stores.

13. 13

    ** Cook's Note: Pittu steamers can be found in specialty Sri Lankan stores.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.