
Mussels /Kallumakai is undoubtedly the most favourite shellfish in Kannur,Kerala .The best ones are found around Telicherry which is hubby's Place. Kannurites prepare many yummy recipes with Kallummakai like Kallumkai varattiyathu ,Kallumakkai curry , Kallumakai biriyani ,Kalummakai porichathu,Ari kadukka etc etc.
Ari kadukka is a very popular tea time snack in Kannur.The tastier ones are served in roadside thattukada. Its also available in bakeries now. I can say without a doubt that this is one of my favourite snack.
Here goes the recipe.
Ingredients
For stuffing
Fresh Mussels - 15 no
Rice flour - 1 1/4 cup
Cumin seeds - 1 tsp
Grated coconut - 1/4 cup
Shallots - 8 -10
Salt
For frying
Redchilly powder - 1 1/ 2 tbs
Turmeric powder - 1/4 tsp
Salt
Preparation
Clean the mussels under running water.Gently slide the knife through the slits and open the shell by running the knife around. This is quite tricky and should be careful .It is easier to open the shell if you slide the knife at straight portion of the the slit.
In a mixie pulse grated coconut, shallots and cumin seeds to a coarse paste. Add this to the riceflour and make a soft dough by adding salted warm water.Stuff the mussels with the dough and steam it for 15 -20 minues.Allow it cool down.Once it is cooled remove the shell and marinate the arikadukka with redchiily powder,turmeric powder and little salt( dont add too much salt as the dough contains salt).Keep it aside for 10 - 15 minutes.In a frying pan take some oil and shallow fry the ari kadukka by flipping the sides over.