Appam is a popular South Indian dish known for its soft and lacy texture. It is typically served with coconut milk or any curry of your choice. A step-by-step guide on how to make Appam:
Ingredients:
For Appam:
- 1 cup raw rice
- 1/4 cup cooked rice
- 1/4 cup grated coconut
- 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 cup warm water
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
For Appam Batter:
1. Soak Rice:
- Wash the raw rice thoroughly and soak it in water for about 4-6 hours.
2. Activate Yeast:
- In a small bowl, mix active dry yeast, sugar, and warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
3. Grind Batter:
- In a blender, combine soaked rice, cooked rice, grated coconut, and the yeast mixture. Blend to a smooth batter. Add water if needed. The consistency should be similar to pancake batter.
4. Fermentation:
- Pour the batter into a large bowl, add salt, and mix well. Allow the batter to ferment overnight or for 8-10 hours. The batter should rise and become airy.
To Make Appam:
1. Heat Appam Pan:
- Heat the appam pan (appachatti) over medium heat. Grease it lightly with oil.
2. Pour Batter:
- Pour a ladle of batter into the center of the pan. Hold the handles of the pan and swirl it in a circular motion to spread the batter evenly, forming a thin layer on the sides and a thicker center.
3. Cover and Cook:
- Cover the pan with a lid and cook on low heat until the edges turn golden brown, and the center is cooked through. The edges should be lacy and crisp.
4. Serve:
- Carefully remove the appam from the pan using a spatula. Repeat the process with the remaining batter.
- Serve the appam hot with a side of coconut milk or any curry of your choice.
Appam is a delightful and traditional South Indian breakfast or dinner option. The soft and spongy texture of appam combined with the richness of coconut milk makes it a delicious and comforting dish.