Paalappam, also known as Appam or Hoppers, is one of the most popular breakfast dishes in Kerala. Traditionally, ground rice was fermented using toddy, but nowadays, yeast is commonly used for fermentation. Appam pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as stews, egg curry, and black chickpeas curry, making it a versatile and delicious meal.
I personally love having appam for breakfast on all occasions at home. If you haven’t tried it yet, I highly recommend making this soft and delicious dish. Below is an easy-to-follow recipe for preparing authentic Paalappam at home.
What is Paalappam?
Paalappam is a beloved South Indian dish from Kerala, known for its soft and fluffy center with crispy edges. This rice-based pancake is a staple breakfast or dinner item. It is often served with coconut milk or other accompaniments. You can even customize Paalappam to suit your taste—some like it slightly sweet, while others prefer a savory version. Toppings like egg, chicken stew, or vegetable curry can turn it into a wholesome meal.
Ingredients
- Raw rice – 2 cups
- Grated coconut – 1 1/2 cups
- Boiled rice – 1 1/2 cups
- Sugar – 2 tablespoons
- Salt – 1/2 teaspoon
- Yeast – 1 teaspoon
- Semolina (Rava) – 2 tablespoons
Method of Preparation
- Soak the Rice: Wash and soak the raw rice in water for 3 hours.
- Grind the Batter: After 3 hours, drain the rice and grind it into a fine batter using enough water. Transfer the batter to a large bowl.
- Blend Boiled Rice & Coconut: Grind the boiled rice and grated coconut with some water until smooth, then add it to the batter.
- Prepare Kappi: In a pan, add 2 tablespoons of rava to 1/4 cup of water and boil. Stir continuously on low flame until it thickens. Let it cool.
- Mix Ingredients: Once cooled, add the kappi to the batter. Then, add salt, sugar, and yeast. Mix everything well with a spoon.
- Adjust Consistency: The batter should be thinner than dosa batter. Add water accordingly.
- Ferment the Batter: Cover the bowl with a lid and let the batter ferment overnight.
- Cook the Appam: Once the batter has risen, heat a non-stick appam pan.
- Make the Appam: Pour one ladle of batter in the center of the pan. Hold both sides of the pan and rotate it gently to spread the batter.
- Cook: Close the lid and cook on medium flame for about a minute.
- Serve: Your soft and delicious appam is ready! Taste and adjust sugar or salt as needed.
- Repeat: Continue making the remaining paalappams using the same method.
Enjoy Your Homemade Paalappam!
Paalappam is a delightful dish that you can personalize to your preference. Try adding a little sugar for a hint of sweetness, or pair it with your favorite curry for a savory twist. However you choose to enjoy it, homemade Paalappam is always a treat!
Give this recipe a try and enjoy a traditional Kerala breakfast at home!
