Easy Pressure Cooker Recipe for Bengali Pithe (Rice Dumplings)

Pithe is more than just a dessert in Bengali households — it's a cherished tradition that sweetens festivals like Makar Sankranti, Poush Parbon, and family gatherings. Made with simple ingredients like rice flour, jaggery, and coconut, Bengali Pithe (especially steamed Puli Pithe) has a rustic charm that resonates with cultural nostalgia.

While traditionally slow-steamed over wood fires or cloth-tied lids, today's kitchens demand efficiency without compromising authenticity. This is where the Meyer Presta Tri-Ply Pressure Cooker steps in — making it easier than ever to recreate these age-old delicacies with speed, safety, and perfect results.

Why Use the Meyer Presta Tri-Ply Pressure Cooker for Pithe?

The Meyer Presta is not just any pressure cooker — it’s a thoughtfully engineered, high-performance cookware solution built for Indian cooking needs. Here's why it's ideal for steaming delicate rice dumplings like pithe:

• Tri-Ply Construction: Even heat distribution across base and body ensures uniform steaming without overcooking or sticking.

• Step-Lid Design: Allows a tighter, more secure fit that preserves pressure and flavor during steaming.

• Ergonomic Stay-Cool Handle: Comfortable grip, no burns or slips even with extended cooking.

• Safe & Secure Build: With pressure indicators, controlled gasket release system, and safety valves, your cooking is risk-free and efficient.

• Multiple Sizes Available: Choose from 2L (perfect for 2–3 servings), 3L (ideal for small families), or 5.5L (great for festivals or entertaining).

  
  

  MEYER Presta Tri-ply with Outer Lid Pressure Cooker 3L

  
  

Ingredients for Steamed Puli Pithe (Makes ~10 dumplings)

For the Outer Shell:

• 1 cup rice flour

• 1½ cups water

• A pinch of salt

• 1 tsp ghee

For the Filling:

• 1 cup grated coconut (fresh or frozen)

• ½ cup date palm jaggery (or regular jaggery)

• ¼ tsp cardamom powder

Step-by-Step Recipe Using Meyer Presta Pressure Cooker

1. Prepare the Filling

1. Heat a nonstick or stainless steel pan (a Meyer frypan works beautifully).

2. Add grated coconut and jaggery, stirring on low heat until the jaggery melts and blends with the coconut.

3. Add cardamom powder and stir until the mixture thickens and leaves the sides of the pan.

4. Set aside to cool. Once cool, divide into small lemon-sized balls.

2. Prepare the Rice Dough

1. In a saucepan, bring 1½ cups water to a boil with a pinch of salt and 1 tsp ghee.

2. Gradually add rice flour while stirring to avoid lumps.

3. Stir until it forms a soft, pliable dough.

4. Cover and let it rest for 10 minutes. Then knead gently while still warm into a smooth dough.

3. Shape the Pithe Dumplings

1. Divide dough into equal balls.

2. Flatten each ball into a disc, place the coconut-jaggery filling in the center, and seal the edges to shape into a crescent or oval dumpling.

3. Smooth the surface with wet fingers if needed.

4. Steam Using Meyer Presta Pressure Cooker

1. Add 1 to 1.5 cups of water to your Meyer Presta Pressure Cooker (depending on its size).

2. Place a steamer plate or stand inside.

3. Arrange the pithe dumplings on a greased steel plate or banana leaf, and place inside the cooker.

4. Close the Step-Lid securely (you’ll feel it fit tightly thanks to the smart design).

5. Steam without the whistle on medium heat for 10–12 minutes. The dumplings will become slightly translucent and firm.

Note: The tri-ply body ensures even steaming from base to top, preventing soggy bottoms or undercooked centers. The stay-cool handles let you lift and check safely — a blessing when working with delicate dishes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with a drizzle of melted jaggery syrup or coconut milk. Traditionally, these are enjoyed as is — soft, sweet, and aromatic — best paired with winter sunshine and warm conversations.

Why Meyer Presta Makes a Difference

Most pressure cookers fall short when it comes to steaming delicate sweets like pithe. But the Meyer Presta combines the best of form and function:

• Tri-Ply Construction: No burnt edges, no uneven steaming

• Step-Lid Design: No steam escape, full flavor lock-in

• Ergonomic Design: Cook safely and comfortably

• Multiple Sizes: From solo indulgence to festive family servings

Whether you're an expert in regional desserts or just discovering the joy of pithe, Meyer Presta makes sure you cook confidently and consistently.

Conclusion

Rediscover the heart of Bengali cuisine with a modern touch. The Meyer Presta Tri-Ply Pressure Cooker doesn’t just reduce cooking time — it preserves tradition, enhances flavor, and empowers you to explore more authentic Indian recipes, right from your kitchen.