Bhutte ka kees recipe is one of Indore's most loved street foods, which is as simple as porridge, but not quite so. ‘Bhutta’ is the Hindi word for corn, and ‘kees’ is the Marathi word for grated, and together they describe exactly what happens when the grated corn hits the pan – it transforms into a spiced and slightly creamy dish. Traditionally, desi corn, which is a starchier, less sweet variety common across central India, is used, though sweet corn works perfectly well as a substitute.
The corn is grated rather than chopped or blended, a technique that releases the natural corn milk locked inside the kernels. That milky liquid is not discarded; it goes straight into the pan along with the grated corn, contributing to the dish's signature creamy texture. The tempering for this bhutte ka kees recipe starts with mustard seeds and cumin seeds, which crackle, then the ginger and green chilli, with curry leaves, for an impeccable flavour.
Making the perfect bhutte ka kees recipe comes down to the simmering stage, which needs patience. The corn mixture gradually thickens as the milk reduces, and it continues to thicken slightly even after the heat is turned off, so it is better to pull it while still a touch loose than to overcook it to a dry, upma-like texture. Make sure to add finishing touches too – freshly grated coconut, chopped coriander leaves with a drizzle of lemon juice, completing the dish.
Ingredients
UNITSIngredients
3 mediumCorn cobs (hard or sweet corn)
1 tbspOil
¼ tspMustard seeds
½ tspCumin seeds
1 tspGinger (finely chopped)
1Green chilli (chopped)
4-5Curry leaves (chopped, optional)
¼ tspTurmeric powder
¼ tspKashmiri red chilli powder (optional)
¼ tspCoriander powder (optional)
1 pinchAsafoetida (hing)
½ cupMilk (or water)
to tasteSalt
For garnishFreshly grated coconut, chopped coriander leaves lemon juice
Remove the husks from the corn cobs. Grate the corn kernels, avoiding the hard central core. Alternatively, slice the kernels off with a knife and coarsely grind them in a mixer. Keep the grated corn aside, along with any corn milk released during grating.
Description - Step 2
Step 2: Temper the spices
Heat the oil in a kadai or pan over low heat. Add the mustard seeds and let them crackle. Add the cumin seeds and let them crackle as well. Then add the chopped ginger, green chilli, and curry leaves (if using). Mix well.
Description - Step 3
Step 3: Add the spice powders
Add the turmeric powder, Kashmiri red chilli powder, coriander powder (if using), and a pinch of asafoetida. Stir well over low heat, taking care that the spices do not burn.
Description - Step 4
Step 4: Cook the corn
Add the grated corn along with its milk to the pan. Mix thoroughly and sauté on low heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring often.
Description - Step 5
Step 5: Simmer with milk
Add the milk (or water) and mix well. Season with salt to taste. Cover the pan and simmer for 10-11 minutes, until the mixture thickens and turns slightly dry, stirring once or twice in between. The mixture will thicken further as it cools.
Description - Step 6
Step 6: Garnish and serve
Spoon the hot bhutte ka kees into serving bowls. Top with freshly grated coconut and chopped coriander leaves. Drizzle with lemon juice and serve immediately.
Corn provides fibre, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It may support digestion, eye health, and energy levels while contributing to a balanced, nutritious diet.
People with corn allergies should avoid it. Those with digestive sensitivities may also limit corn if it causes discomfort, bloating, or digestive issues.
Corn can be part of a healthy daily diet when eaten in moderation alongside a variety of other fruits, vegetables, proteins, and whole grains.
There is no universal limit. One medium ear of corn or a moderate serving as part of a balanced diet is suitable for most healthy adults.