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| "Fluffy & Crispy Madurai Karupatti Appam" |
Indulge in the rich heritage of Madurai with a culinary journey through the streets of Sourashtrian traditions. The Madurai Karupatti Appam, a sweet delicacy, embodies the cultural tapestry of this vibrant city. Its roots delve into generations, creating a sweet symphony of taste and tradition.
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| Perfect Soft & Spongy Vattayappam - A Delicious and Healthy Kerala Treat |
When it comes to Kerala's iconic Appams, one recipe I’ve always wanted to highlight is Vattayappam – a soft, spongy, and deliciously unique fermented rice cake. While it shares ingredients with its cousin Vellayappam, Vattayappam stands out for its texture and cooking method – it’s steam-cooked to perfection, giving it a fluffy, melt-in-the-mouth quality. For those wondering, Vattayappam translates to “Round Rice Cake” in Malayalam!
This traditional Kerala snack or Nadan Palaharam is an ideal choice for a tea-time treat or a light oil-free breakfast option. Unlike deep-fried snacks, Vattayappam is steamed, making it a healthier choice without sacrificing flavour. You can enjoy it just as you would Appam, with a spicy vegetarian or non-vegetarian curry for an extra layer of taste.
Looking for more traditional breakfast ideas? Check out the post on Kerala-Style Christian Breakfast.
It is a traditional Kerala snack, a Nadan Palaharam which turns out to be an oil free tea time snack in most of the Kerala households & it is also a Breakfast dish, which can be eaten like an Appam with hot & spicy Vegetarian or Non-vegetarian Curries. The dish is made by steam-cooking the batter, and is very similar to its Goan counterpart Sanna & the Vietnamese Bánh Bò - a fascinating touch that underlines the universal appeal of steamed rice cakes.
Love Kerala snacks? Explore more traditional Kerala Nadan Palaharams, here..
Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a curry, Vattayappam offers a taste of Kerala’s culinary heritage – soft, slightly sweet, and a little tangy from natural fermentation. This simple yet delicious treat is perfect for any time of the day.
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| Stacked Pieces of Vattayappam - Soft, Fluffy, and Absolutely Irresistible. |
Once the Christmas season kicks in, so does the excitement of planning the Christmas Eve feast, breakfast, lunch, and the many rounds of snacks and dinner. This season is when families and friends gather around the table, and as we know, the Christmas feast is no simple affair – it’s a lavish spread of meats, breads, stews, rice, fish, desserts, and, of course, the iconic Christmas Fruit Cakes (or Plum Cake) alongside glasses of Homemade Wines. And let me remind you, it’s not just the wine that seals the Christmas joy – it’s the whole spread of traditional goodies!
🎄 Add a Homemade Touch to Your Christmas! 🎁
Essential ingredients like Candied Fruits, Marmalade, and Caramel Syrup, aren't just for perfecting your Christmas Cake—they're also charming handmade gifts to spread the festive cheer. 🌟
✨ Discover the Joy of Homemade Delights! ✨
As I often say, "Festivals aren’t just about Good Food; they’re about Great Food! And for Christmas in Kerala, that means a mix of Syrian Christian staples that once graced the table only during special occasions. Nowadays, though, we live in a world where no dish is strictly “festive” – favourites like Appam and Stew have sneaked into our daily menus.
Need inspiration for a Kerala Christmas breakfast? Explore these Appam varieties to elevate your festive breakfast table!
Back in the day – or as they say, "Pandu Pandu Oru Kaalathu"(literally, it says Once upon a time), – dishes like Appam and Stew were reserved for celebrations. The journey of these dishes into everyday Kerala homes speaks volumes of Kerala’s culinary history and its Dutch and English influences. The dish Appam has deep-rooted connections, especially with Jewish communities in Cochin, where it became a staple. Although most Cochin Jews have now moved to Israel, their culinary legacy – Appam included – has stayed on, flavouring Kerala’s tables for generations.
Today, I’m excited to share an authentic Kerala Christian recipe from my mother-in-law’s kitchen – Vattayappam. My MIL prepares this as a snack, though her approach has always been a bit hit or miss. For a while, I was hesitant to try it myself, but over the past seven years, I’ve experimented with various recipes until I finally found what I call my “perfect” spongy Vattayappam!
After countless trials and errors in search of the ideal soft and spongy Vattayappam, I finally found the perfect recipe – thanks to Lekshmi Nair’s Vlog. Her precise measurements, combined with one secret ingredient, turned my Vattayappam dreams into reality.
So incredibly soft and spongy were the results that I couldn’t stop repeating those words with delight. For the first time ever, I achieved a flawless Vattayappam on my first try. If you’ve been struggling to perfect this classic dish, this recipe is a must-try!
Discover more Kerala treasures: Explore a wonderful collection of Traditional Kerala Christian Recipes here...
At its heart, Vattayappam is simplicity itself, made with:
Despite the basic ingredients, the variations are endless, influenced by regions, kitchens, and personal preferences.
Pro Tip: Make it your own! Adjust the sweetness or add garnishes to match your occasion.
The beauty of Vattayappam lies in its ability to adapt – whether it’s a plain, oil-free snack or a sweet treat adorned with toppings. Every household has its unique spin, making this steamed rice cake a true reflection of Kerala’s culinary diversity.
In love with steamed snacks? Dive into a wide range of Kerala’s Steamed Delicacies here...
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| Perfectly sliced Vattayappam, highlighting its airy texture and traditional presentation on a banana leaf |
This Vattayappam recipe uses a combination of soaked raw rice, coconut, coconut milk, sugar, and yeast, but the magic lies in one secret ingredient – cooked idli rice! It’s this special addition that guarantees soft and spongy Vattayappams every time.
Whether you're planning a Kerala Christmas breakfast or looking for an oil-free snack to pair with your evening tea, this recipe fits perfectly into your festive spread. You can serve it for:
Don’t miss this festive combo: Pair Vattayappam with Kerala’s traditional Christmas Fruit Cakes & Homemade Wines.
Incorporating Vattayappam into your Christmas menu adds a traditional Kerala touch that’s both unique and versatile. Its oil-free nature makes it a healthy alternative, and its ability to complement both savoury curries and sweet treats makes it a crowd-pleaser.
Plan your festive feast: Check out Kerala’s Christmas Menu ideas for more inspiration.
Total Time: Approximately 10-15 hours (including passive soaking and fermentation time)
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| Perfectly Sliced Vattayappam - A Delicious and Healthy South Indian Treat |
For Vattayappam Batter:
Optional Garnishes:
Soak the Rice:
Blend the Ingredients:
Incorporate Coconut Milk:
Quick Tip: Learn how to make Thick Coconut Milk at home! Click here for the recipe.
Ferment the Batter:
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| Freshly Steamed Vattayappam - A Traditional Kerala Delicacy |
Prepare the Pan and Steamer:
Cool and Serve:
Pro Tip: For a festive touch, garnish with cashews, raisins, and cherries halfway through cooking.
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| Freshly Steamed Vattayappam - A Fluffy Kerala Rice Cake |
Pair your Vattayappams with:
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| Close-up of Vattayappam slice showcasing its soft, fluffy, and airy texture – a perfect Kerala rice cake. |
This recipe yields one 8" round soft, spongy, and fluffy Vattayappam, perfect for festive gatherings or as a comforting tea-time snack.
Vattayappam, with its soft and spongy texture, is more than just a steamed rice cake—it’s a taste of Kerala’s culinary tradition wrapped in simplicity and nostalgia. Whether you’re serving it as part of a festive breakfast, pairing it with a rich curry for dinner, or savouring it as a tea-time treat, this versatile recipe fits every occasion. With just a handful of ingredients and a little patience, you can master the art of making this delicious, healthy snack at home.
Have you tried this recipe? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
So, why wait? Gather your ingredients and try this recipe today! Once you taste the perfect Vattayappam, we’re sure it will become a cherished addition to your family’s menu.
Bookmark this recipe for Christmas or any special occasion.
If you enjoyed this post, don’t forget to share it with friends and family who love experimenting with traditional dishes. And while you’re here, check out our other Appam Varieties and Festive Recipes to make your cooking experience even more delightful!
Stay tuned for more authentic recipes, cooking tips, and kitchen hacks. Don’t miss a post—subscribe to "Essence of Life - Food" today!
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| Traditional Nendhra Pazha Appam |
Nendhra Pazham Appam is a traditional Nadan Palaharam (snack) that's deeply rooted in our family’s culinary treasure chest. This mildly sweet appam, made with rice flour, slices of Nendhra banana, ground coconut paste, coconut milk, sugar, and cardamom, is a treat that’s as comforting as it is simple. Perfect for tea time, this snack brings together the deliciousness of appams and the rich, distinctive flavour of Nendhra Pazham. If you're a fan of both, this snack is sure to delight your taste buds with its humble yet satisfying taste.
Love Nendhra Pazhams a delightful banana variety, then explore a few more Nendhra Pazham Recipes here... and don't miss the Pazham Pori Recipe too..
In Kerala, tea time is more than just a break – it's a ritual. We call it Nalumani Palaharam, which translates to the "4 o'clock snacks." Every region has its own take on teatime snacks, but Kerala's wide variety of Nadan Palaharangal (local snacks) really stands out. While some of these snacks have made their way into local bakeries and stores, many still remain hidden in the kitchens of families, passed down through generations. This Nendhra Pazha Appam is one such gem.
If you are a fan of Kerala Nadan Palaharams, then please do try recipes like Kozhukatta, Unniyappam and Ela Ada
When you’ve got overripe Nendhra Pazham (plantains) lying around, this is the perfect recipe to use them up! It’s a snack my mother-in-law (MIL) often makes, and I’ve seen her whip it uptime and again. It's one of her specialities that I absolutely adore. Today, as a special tribute to her on her birthday, I’m sharing her Nendhra Pazha Appam recipe, just as it’s written on her handwritten recipe card.
A big thank you to Amma for passing down this heirloom recipe to me. I'm thrilled to share it with you all today!
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| നേന്ത്ര പഴ അപ്പം - Recipe Credit: @ ഓമന ജേക്കബ് |
Every family has its own set of cherished recipes – those beloved snacks, sweets, and savouries that have been passed down through the years. These recipes might not be widely known, but they are always treasured family favourites. Nendhra Pazham Appam is one such recipe from our heirloom collection, and alongside it, we have our iconic Nadan Palaharam – the so-called “Ball.” Over time, I plan to share more of these hidden gems from our family kitchen and invite anyone reading this to share their own favourite family snacks. I’d love to try them and post about them here!
Explore a wide range of Traditional Kerala Snacks alias Kerala Nadan Palaharam Recipes here...
Explore More! For more recipes from our Family Repertoire, click here.
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| Nendhra Pazha Appam on Banana Leaf |
Protip: If you can’t find Nendhra Pazham, you can substitute it with regular ripe bananas for a similar texture and taste.
Protip: Whether you're using coconut milk or ground coconut paste, the process is fairly straightforward. Use freshly grated coconut for the best flavour and texture in your appam.
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| Close-Up of Nendhra Pazha Appam |
Protip: Gently mix the batter without exerting pressure to preserve the banana slices. Quick, light movements will keep the bananas intact and prevent them from mashing into the batter. We want those beautiful slices to shine in the appam!
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| Kerala-Style Nendhra Pazha Appam |
Now, let’s steam cook the batter into a delicious appam. You can choose between a traditional steamer or a pressure cooker.
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| Kerala-Style Nendhra Pazha Appam from our Family Repertoire |
Protip: For an even, soft texture, keep the flame on medium throughout the steaming process.
Love Kerala Style Traditonal Appam Recipes, explore through a wide range of Appam Varieties here...
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| Nendhra Pazha Appam |
Pro Tip for Perfection: If you have leftover batter, store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. The appams will be just as delicious when steamed fresh!
Can I use other types of bananas for this recipe?
Is this recipe vegan?
How can I adjust the sweetness of the appam?
Can I use jaggery instead of sugar in this recipe?
Can I add other spices to enhance the flavour?
This Nendhra Pazha Appam is a simple yet delicious recipe that captures the essence of Kerala's tea-time snacks. By incorporating ingredients that are both easy to find and rich in tradition, this recipe brings a touch of nostalgia and warmth to every bite. Perfect for family gatherings or a quiet tea break, this appam is sure to become a favourite in your kitchen too.
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| SWEET COCONUT MILK FOR APPAM/IDIYAPPAM |
I know two beautiful people who can write off their will for this heavenly Combo - Appam & Sweetened Coconut Milk. One is my MIL and the other person is my friend Santhini. I learnt that Santhini loves this combo during one of her visits. I had made Appam, Chicken Curry & Stew. But she asked whether I can make Sweetened Coconut Milk for her and serve Appam with Brown Sugar. Since then, whenever possible I try to make this combo when she visits us. Santhini, this is a long pending recipe for you.
Appam being a frequented recipe at home and I often make a batch of Sweet Coconut Milk for me & my daughter too. What took me this long to post this recipe is to get it photographed. Here we go with the recipe of Easy-queasy Sweet Coconut Milk, one best combo which goes hand in hand with Appam & Idiyappam. My first acquaintance with Sweet Coconut Milk was at Santhi Aunty's house. She had served it with Idiyappam and the Sweet Coconut Milk was made with Jaggery & flavoured with Cardamoms.
I usually make this Sweet Coconut Milk with Sugar and that is how my MIL usually makes & likes. We can get easy when it comes to the sweetener - Sugar/Jaggery/Palm Sugar. The choice is yours. And I do not add Cardamom Powder or any other flavouring in Sweet Coconut Milk. But traditionally the recipe calls for adding Cardamom Powder.
The only tedious process in making this recipe is grating, grinding & extracting the Coconut Milk. Once the Coconut Milk is ready, the job gets easier. Let's begin with the process, cracking the Coconut into beautiful and equal halves. (No... I cannot do it. I have a great trouble in this feat that I need somebody to help me do this). Lucky me, they sell it as grated coconut in local market. So it is years I have tried to crack open a Coconut, scrap it etc., Well, talking about the tedious process - next feat is scrapping all that beautiful creamy soft flesh. After this, the process turns out to be quicker. Grind the grated Coconut in your food processor or a blender, squeeze and sieve it to yield creamy, thick Coconut Milk. The freshness and flavour of home-made Coconut Milk is worth the process and all the more they have no additives in it. If you are using store-bought coconut milk or Coconut Milk Powder then you can get this recipe incorporated within no time.
For more APPAM RECIPES, Click here...
Cuisine - South Indian, Sri Lanka & Southeast Asian
Course - Side Dish
Difficulty - Easy
Yields - 11/2 Cups - 2 Cups
Author - SM
Preparation Time - 15-20 Minutes
Cooking Time - 8-10 Minutes
For IDIYAPPAM RECIPE, Click here...
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| SWEET COCONUT MILK FOR APPAM/IDIYAPPAM |
Grated Coconut - 11/2 Cups
Water - As Required.
A Sieve or a Thin Muslin Cloth
Blender or Food Processor
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| SWEET COCONUT MILK FOR APPAM/IDIYAPPAM |
For a detailed recipe on HOW TO MAKE COCONUT MILK, Click here...
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| SWEET COCONUT MILK FOR APPAM/IDIYAPPAM |
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| SWEET COCONUT MILK FOR APPAM/IDIYAPPAM |
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| KARIKKU APPAM - TENDER COCONUT APPAM |
Appam is one favourite dish among Malayalees. Right from a Breakfast scene to an elaborate party scene you can see an Appam served in the menu. So is the love for an Appam for Keralites. Needless to say it serves as a default Breakfast Menu on a Christmas & Easter day, in most of the Kerala Christian Households. Mostly served along with the ever knotted combo of Stew or an Egg Curry with Coconut Milk or any vegetarian/non-vegetarian side dishes of your choice. Or simply serve it along with Red Coconut Chutney, sweetened Coconut Milk or with Sugar/Brown Sugar. Some even serve Appam along with Steamed Bananas/Nendhra Pazham Puzhungiyathu The Side dishes served along with an Appam gets vivid with taste & preferences.
When a region is overloaded with Coconut Trees & that's Our God's Own Country - Keralam, you are intended to find quite a number of dishes loaded with Coconuts whatsoever. Needless to say, the locally proclaimed & celebrated hooch - the one & only "Kallu/Toddy" in the region and the never ending Kallu Shappu culture. Even you can find a wonderful Appam made with Kallu or the Toddy called Kallappam or the Appam with fresh sweet Toddy. Toddy helps in activating the fermentation process and also yields you with a fluffy centred and crispy edges Appams.
This Karikku Appam recipe is a simple twist given to a Kallappam, where I have used Tender Coconut Shavings & Tender Coconut Water to make this Appam Batter. And Yeast helps to get the batter fermented. This is a foolproof recipe. It is one best way to use the tender & sweet Coconut shavings, and it is full of flavours. Tender Coconut shavings has a natural sweetness and adds a creamy, rich taste to this Karikku Appam. Allow the batter to ferment accordingly and
there you go with a perfect Karikku Appam. This recipe of Karikku Appam
yields you with soft, fluffy centred and crispy edges Appams.
For more APPAM RECIPES, Click here...
Cuisine - South Indian, Sri Lanka & Southeast Asian
Course - Main Course
Difficulty - Medium
Yields - 30-35 Appams
Author - SM
Preparation Time - 15-20 Minutes
Soaking Time - 3-4 Hours
Fermentation Time - 10-12 Hours/Overnight
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| KARIKKU APPAM - TENDER COCONUT APPAM |
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| KARIKKU APPAM - TENDER COCONUT APPAM |
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| KARIKKU APPAM - TENDER COCONUT APPAM |
Essence of Life - Food is all about daily cooking with a simple sense of taste and health. It is all about food. Not a day goes by without eating for most of us, so what we eat matters on the whole. Food in the mode of goodness increases the duration of life, purifies one's existence, and gives strength, health, happiness, and satisfaction. Above all ingredients, the most vital one in my kitchen is love.
Sm @ Essence of Life - Food
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