Appam, also known as hoppers, is a traditional South Indian pancake that's soft in the center with delicate, crisp edges. Popular in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Sri Lanka, appam is commonly enjoyed for breakfast or dinner, often served with curry, coconut milk, or stew.
This quick and simple version uses just three main ingredients and skips the long fermentation process, perfect for a light, wholesome meal in less time.
Ingredients & Preparation
You’ll need just three key ingredients: raw rice (2 cups), baking soda (1 tsp), and salt to taste. You’ll also need water for blending and oil for cooking.
1. Rinse and soak the rice:
Wash the rice thoroughly until the water runs clear. Then soak it in clean water for about 4 to 6 hours. To speed up the process, you can use warm water.
2. Blend the batter:
After soaking, drain the rice and blend it into a smooth batter with salt, adding water gradually to get a pourable consistency, not too thick or too runny.
3. Add baking soda:
Mix the baking soda into the batter and let it rest for 30 minutes. This helps create the soft, airy texture that appam is known for.
4. Cook the appam:
Heat a lightly greased non-stick or cast-iron pan. Pour a ladle of batter in the center, then swirl the pan to spread it out thinly around the sides. Cover and cook on low heat until the edges are golden and the center is cooked through.
Serving & Variations
Appam pairs beautifully with coconut milk, vegetable stew, spicy chutneys, or egg curry. You can also try simple variations:
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Egg Appam: Crack an egg into the center while it cooks.
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Sweet Appam: Add jaggery and coconut to the batter.
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Savory Appam: Mix in spices or finely chopped vegetables.
Getting the right batter consistency is key to soft, fluffy appams with crisp edges. Use a heavy pan for even cooking, and always cook on low flame to avoid burning. With just a few ingredients and a bit of rest time, you can enjoy a light, nutritious, and delicious dish that's perfect for any time of day.
