Thin strands of rice or wheat noodles make up Sevai, a classic Indian delicacy that you are about to discover. Thanks to its adaptability, sevai—also called “vermicelli” or “semiya” in some parts of the world—is a treasured mainstay in Indian cuisine. It’s delicious in both sweet and savory meals.
The traditional method for making sevai involves pressing or sifting dough into thin strands, which are then cooked by steaming, boiling, or roasting until soft and cooked. You may use the prepared sevai as a foundation for many sorts of meals, from sweets to brunches.
It is common practice to season sevai with spices such mustard seeds, curry leaves, turmeric, and chili powder before mixing it with lentils, meat, or vegetables to make savory dishes. As a side dish, it goes well with gravies and curries and adds some solidity to the dish.
The sevai is boiled with sugar and milk and flavored with cardamom, saffron, or rose water to make a sweet dish called “sevai kheer” or “vermicelli pudding.” It’s a soothing and delightful dessert. Nuts and dried fruits make great garnishes for this fragrant and creamy dessert.
Sevai Recipe
Ingredients
For Making Sevai:
- 2 cups rice flour
- Water as needed
- Salt to taste
- Oil for greasing
For Serving (Optional):
- Grated coconut
- Jaggery syrup or sugar
- Coconut milk
- Seasoned vegetables such as mixed vegetables cooked with spices
- Seasoned lentils or curry
- Chutney or pickle
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sevai Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, add rice flour and a pinch of salt.
- Gradually add water to the rice flour while mixing with your hands until a soft and pliable dough is formed. The dough should be smooth and non-sticky.
- Knead the dough well for a few minutes to ensure that it is evenly mixed and smooth.
Step 2: Shape and Steam the Sevai
- Divide the dough into small portions and roll them into smooth balls.
- Grease the Idiyappam maker or Sevai press with a little oil.
- Place one portion of dough into the Idiyappam maker and press it to extrude thin strands of dough onto greased plates or idli plates.
- Repeat the process with the remaining dough portions until all the dough is used up.
- Steam the extruded dough strands in a steamer for 8-10 minutes, or until they are cooked through and firm to the touch.
- Once steamed, remove the Sevai from the steamer and let them cool slightly before handling.
Step 3: Serve the Sevai
- Once the Sevai have cooled slightly, gently fluff them with a fork to separate the strands.
- Serve the Sevai hot or warm with your choice of accompaniments.
- For savory options, serve Sevai with seasoned vegetables, lentils, curry, chutney, or pickle.
- For sweet options, serve Sevai with grated coconut, jaggery syrup or sugar, and coconut milk.
Tips and Information
Tips and Information
- Consistency of Dough: The dough for Sevai should be soft and pliable, similar to the consistency of chapati dough. Add water gradually to achieve the right consistency, as adding too much water can make the dough sticky.
- Variations: Sevai can be made with different flavors and textures by adding ingredients such as grated coconut, sesame seeds, or spices to the dough.
- Storage: Leftover Sevai can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat them gently in a steamer or microwave before serving.
- Customization: Feel free to customize the toppings and accompaniments according to your taste preferences. Experiment with different combinations of vegetables, lentils, spices, and condiments to create your own unique Sevai dishes.
“Sevaiyan” is a traditional Eid-ul-Fitr dessert that combines sevai with milk, sugar, and dried fruits for a decadent and joyous treat.
Whether you want it salty or sweet, sevai is an adaptable and flavorful ingredient that can transform any dish into an authentic Indian delicacy. Find out for yourself why sevai is a beloved dish in Indian homes all across the globe by delving into its limitless potential.
Traditional rice flour dishes from South India include Sevai, Idiyappam, and String Hoppers. Steamed rice noodles are a popular option for breakfast, lunch, supper, and even snacks due to their versatility and deliciousness. There are many different ways to eat sevai, from spicy meals made with spices and veggies to sweet ones made with jaggery and coconut milk. Sevai elevates every dish with its delicate rice taste and fluffy, airy texture.
