South indian food
IDIYAPAM RECIPES
Idiyappam, also known as String Hoppers or Nool Puttu, is a popular South Indian and Sri Lankan breakfast/dinner dish made from steamed rice flour dough pressed into noodle-like strands.
Here is a common, easy recipe using rice flour and hot water:
Ingredients
* 1 cup (about 130g) Rice Flour (preferably roasted idiyappam flour or a fine, quality rice flour)
* 1 to 1.25 cups Water (The exact amount can vary slightly depending on the flour)
* \frac{1}{4} teaspoon Salt (or to taste)
* 1 teaspoon Oil or Ghee (optional, to help with kneading and prevent sticking)
* Grated Coconut (optional, for layering or serving)
Equipment
* Mixing bowl
* Spatula or wooden spoon
* Idiyappam Press (or Murukku/Sevai press with a fine noodle disc)
* Steamer or Idli cooker with greased idli plates or special idiyappam plates
Instructions
* Roast the Rice Flour (Optional but Recommended for Softness):
* Heat a pan on a low flame and add the rice flour.
* Dry roast for about 4-5 minutes, stirring continuously, until the flour is very hot to the touch and a slight steam is visible. Do not brown it. This helps the flour absorb more water and makes the idiyappam softer.
* Transfer the flour to a mixing bowl.
* Boil the Water:
* In the same pan, bring 1 to 1.25 cups of water to a rolling boil. Add the salt and the optional oil/ghee.
* Make the Dough:
* Pour the boiling water immediately over the roasted rice flour in the mixing bowl.
* Quickly mix it with a spatula or wooden spoon until all the flour is combined and no dry flour remains. The mixture will be crumbly and then come together.
* Cover the bowl and let it rest for 3-5 minutes. The dough must be kneaded while it is still warm/hot for the softest texture.
* Knead the Dough:
* Once the dough is warm enough to handle, grease your hands with a little oil and knead it into a smooth, soft, and non-sticky dough.
* Tip: If the dough is too dry, sprinkle a little more hot water and knead. If it's too sticky, add a tablespoon of rice flour and knead.
* Keep the dough covered with a damp cloth or kitchen towel while working on batches to prevent it from drying out.
* Press and Steam:
* Boil water in your steamer or idli pot.
* Grease the inside of your idiyappam press and the idli plates/steamer plates.
* If using grated coconut, sprinkle a pinch on each greased plate.
* Take a portion of the dough, shape it into a cylinder, and place it inside the press (fill it about \frac{3}{4} full).
* Press the dough directly onto the prepared plates in a concentric, circular motion to form a small disc of string hoppers. Avoid overcrowding.
* Cook the Idiyappam:
* Place the plates in the steamer.
* Steam for about 8 to 10 minutes on medium to high heat. The idiyappam will look glossy and soft when cooked.
* Once done, switch off the heat and let it rest for a minute or two before gently removing the idiyappam with a flat spatula.
* Serve:
* Serve the Idiyappam hot.
Serving Suggestions
Idiyappam is usually served with:
* Savory Side Dishes: Vegetable Stew, Chicken/Mutton/Fish Curry, or a mild kurma.
* Sweet Side Dishes: Sweetened Coconut Milk (sometimes flavored with jaggery and cardamom).


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