"And He took bread"

And He took bread, and when He had given thanks, He broke it and gave it to them saying, "This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me."

- Luke 22:19

Every year my mom makes a Vattayappam or Pesaha Appam which is a traditional, steamed, unleavened rice cake made in Christian homes in Kerala on this day. The eldest member of the family cuts it to distribute to friends and family on the night of Maundy Thursday.

*Recipe*

- 2 c uncooked rice

- 1/2 c uncooked rice

- 1 c coconut milk

- 1/2 t yeast

- 6 T sugar

- 1/2 c warm water

- 1/2 t salt

- handful of raisins and cashews

- 1/4 t cardamom powder

- 1 T ghee

* Wash your rice and soak it in water for 6-8 hours

* Drain the rice and grind with it the coconut milk and cooked rice, adding water if necessary to make into a fine paste

* Mix together the yeast, warm water, and sugar and set aside for 10 mins or until it gets frothy.

* Add the yeast mixture to your rice mixture and add salt and cardamom powder. Mix well until you get a smooth batter. You can add more water if you need. It should be the consistency of pancake batter.

* Set aside covered for about 6-8 hours

* Grease a cake pan with the ghee. Pour your batter into the cake pan and steam for 10 mins. Carefully open the steamer and sprinkle on your cashews and raisins. Cover again and steam for another 10-15 mins or until done. Poke the center with a toothpick. If it comes out clean, it's ready!

* Once done, remove the steamed rice cake from the steamer and let it cool. Cut into slices and serve.