Ada

Ada, also known as Ela Ada, is a cherished traditional sweet from Kerala, India. This delightful delicacy is crafted by filling rice dough with a sweet mixture, wrapping it in banana leaves, and then steaming it to perfection. Often enjoyed as an evening snack or breakfast, Ada is particularly popular during the festival of Onam.

The main ingredients of Ada are grated coconut and rice flour, sweetened with either sugar or jaggery. Some variations even incorporate bananas into the coconut-jaggery filling, adding an extra dimension of flavor.

A notable variant of Ada is Poovada, which is prepared as an offering, or *Nivedyam*, during Onam. This version is adorned with Thumbapoo flowers, enhancing its auspiciousness. Another variation, Ottada, is a unique breakfast dish made with a combination of maida and rice flour, although sometimes maida is omitted. Ottada is typically cooked on a tava or over an open flame.

In some recipes, Ada might include fillings like Chakkavaratti, a sweet jackfruit preserve. Additionally, Ada is often given as *Prasadam*, a religious offering, to devotees at temples in Kerala.

Whether enjoyed as a snack, breakfast, or festive treat, Ada holds a special place in the hearts of those who savor its sweet, traditional flavors.