Appams are light, rice-based pancakes, similar to hoppers (because of their bowl-like shape), that are commonly consumed in Sri Lanka and the South Indian states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Made from fermented rice, these pancakes are thin, almost like savory crepes, and pair well with curries and stews. While the fermentation takes time, once you have the batter ready, the dish gets ready in minutes.
Ingredients
UNITSIngredients
1½ cupsRice
¼ cupThick poha
⅓ cupFresh coconut (grated)
2 cupsWater
½ tspInstant yeast
1-2 tspSugar
as requiredSalt
Follow
Directions
Description - Step 1
Step 1: Soak the rice and poha.
Rinse the rice under running water. Then, soak it in water for four hours. Also, soak the poha in water, but just for 30 minutes. Drain the water from both rice and poha.
Description - Step 2
Step 2: Make the batter
In a blender or mixer-grinder, add the soaked rice, poha, sugar, salt, and freshly grated coconut. Now, add water and blend it all together till a smooth batter is formed. Transfer this batter into a medium-sized bowl.
Description - Step 3
Step 3: Ferment the batter
Sprinkle instant yeast all over the batter. Mix well and cover the bowl. Set it aside for an hour, until the batter doubles in volume and develops multiple air pockets.
Description - Step 4
Step 4: Cook the appam
Put an appam pan on medium heat. Drizzle some oil and let it heat up. Once the pan is hot, take a ladle and pour the batter into the pan. Gently rotate the pan to spread the batter in a circle. Cover the pan and let the appam cook. The appam is cooked once the base becomes lightly golden and the edges turn crispy. Use a spatula to gently remove the appam and place it on a plate. Each appam should cook in 3-5 minutes.