Idiyappam, also known as Nool Puttu or Rice Hoppers, is a popular breakfast dish in South India, especially in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. This simple yet delicious recipe consists of steamed rice noodles that are soft, delicate, and often served with curry, coconut milk, or sugar. The name “Idiyappam” translates to “rice flour pressed” in Malayalam, highlighting the dish’s signature preparation style. Let’s dive into this flavorful dish and learn how to make it at home.
Ingredients:
- For the Idiyappam dough:
- 2 cups rice flour (preferably roasted rice flour or idiyappam flour)
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp ghee (optional, for added flavor)
- For steaming:
- Water (for steaming)
- Idiyappam maker (or a similar device, like a pastry bag or press)
- For serving (optional):
- Coconut milk (sweetened or unsweetened, as per preference)
- Sugar (optional, for a sweet version)
- Vegetable or meat curry (like vegetable stew, chicken curry, or mutton curry)
- Scraped coconut (optional, to garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the rice flour and salt.
- Boil water in a separate pan. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, pour it into the rice flour mixture gradually while stirring continuously.
- Mix well to form a dough. The dough should be soft but not sticky. If the dough feels dry, add a little more hot water; if it feels too wet, add more rice flour.
- Once the dough is formed, cover it with a damp cloth to keep it moist. Let it rest for a few minutes.
2. Press the Dough into Noodles:
- Prepare your Idiyappam maker or press. Grease it lightly with ghee or oil to prevent sticking.
- Divide the dough into small portions and fill the dough into the press.
- Press the dough into the idli steaming plates or any other steamer in a circular, spiral pattern, just like noodles. Alternatively, you can form small nests of the dough.
- Ensure that the noodle discs are compact but not too tight, as steam needs to pass through to cook them properly.
3. Steam the Idiyappam:
- Heat a steamer with enough water at the base to generate steam. If you don’t have a traditional steamer, a large pot with a lid will work.
- Arrange the pressed dough in the steamer, ensuring that there is enough space between each disc to allow the steam to circulate.
- Steam for about 10-15 minutes, or until the Idiyappam is fully cooked. You can check by lightly pressing the noodles to ensure they are firm and not sticky.
4. Serve the Idiyappam:
- Once steamed, carefully remove the Idiyappam from the steamer using tongs or a spatula.
- Serve hot with a variety of accompaniments, such as vegetable stew, egg curry, chicken curry, or even sweetened coconut milk. You can also sprinkle some sugar or scrape fresh coconut on top for a sweet version.
Pro Tip: For a richer flavor, drizzle some ghee on top of the Idiyappam before serving. This adds a delightful aroma and taste.
Variations:
- Sweet Idiyappam: For a dessert-like experience, serve Idiyappam with sweetened coconut milk and a sprinkle of sugar or jaggery. Some prefer to add cardamom powder for extra flavor.
- Savory Idiyappam: It can be paired with vegetable stew, egg curry, or chicken curry for a hearty meal.
- Using Fresh Coconut: Some versions of Idiyappam include scraping fresh coconut over the noodles before serving, giving it a richer texture.
Tips for Perfect Idiyappam:
- Rice Flour: The key to soft and non-sticky Idiyappam lies in using good quality rice flour. You can use store-bought roasted rice flour, which works best for this recipe. Make sure the rice flour is fine and smooth.
- Steaming: Steaming is crucial to get the right texture. Make sure the steam is not too intense, as that could make the Idiyappam soggy or overcooked. Medium heat works best.
- Texture: The dough should not be too stiff or too soft. It should be easy to press but still firm enough to hold the shape when steamed.
Conclusion:
Idiyappam (Nool Puttu) is a beloved dish that brings together the simplicity of rice flour and the richness of various accompaniments. Whether you enjoy it sweet or savory, it is sure to be a hit with anyone who tries it. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this dish brings the comforting taste of South India to your table. Enjoy the delicate rice noodles with your favorite curry or sweet treats for a delightful culinary experience!
