Palappam is a beloved dish from Kerala, known for its soft, fluffy center and crispy edges. Often enjoyed with various side dishes, it makes a complete meal that is both satisfying and delicious. In this blog, we will explore the best side dishes to serve with palappam, including recipes and tips on using different palappam mixes.
Understanding Palappam
What is Palappam?
Palappam, also known as appam, is a traditional rice pancake made from fermented rice batter combined with coconut milk. It is typically cooked in a special pan called a palappam chatti. The batter can be prepared using various methods, including easy palappam mix and instant palappam mix, making it accessible for everyone.
Key Ingredients for Making Palappam
- Rice Flour: The primary ingredient; it can be made from regular rice or parboiled rice.
- Coconut Milk: Adds richness; can be substituted with grated coconut in some recipes.
- Yeast: Used for fermentation; instant yeast is often preferred for quicker preparation.
Best Side Dishes to Serve with Palappam
Palappam pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some popular options:
1. Vegetable Stew
A classic pairing, vegetable stew is made from assorted vegetables simmered in coconut milk. This creamy stew enhances the flavors of palappam beautifully.
- Ingredients:
- Carrots, potatoes, green peas
- Pearl onions
- Coconut oil
- Curry leaves
- Thick coconut milk
Preparation: Sauté the vegetables in coconut oil, add spices, and finish with coconut milk for a rich stew that complements the soft texture of palappam.
2. Kadala Curry
Kadala curry is made from black chickpeas cooked in a spiced coconut gravy. Its hearty texture pairs perfectly with the softness of palappam.
- Ingredients:
- Black chickpeas (Kala Chana)
- Onions and tomatoes
- Coconut and spices (coriander powder, turmeric)
Preparation: Cook chickpeas until tender and prepare the gravy by sautéing onions and spices before adding the chickpeas for a flavorful dish.
3. Egg Roast
This flavorful dish features hard-boiled eggs sautéed in a spicy onion-tomato mixture, making it an excellent accompaniment to palappam.
- Ingredients:
- Hard-boiled eggs
- Onions and tomatoes
- Spices (ginger-garlic paste, chili powder)
Preparation: Sauté onions and tomatoes with spices, then add halved boiled eggs to coat them in the mixture.
4. Fish Molee
A traditional Kerala dish, fish molee features fish cooked in a spiced coconut milk sauce. The delicate flavors of fish complement the mild taste of palappam beautifully.
- Ingredients:
- Fish fillets (like pomfret or tilapia)
- Coconut milk and green chilies
- Ginger and garlic
Preparation: Marinate fish in spices and cook gently in coconut milk to create a fragrant dish that pairs well with palappam.
Making Perfect Palappam Using Different Mixes
The Right Mix for Your Palappam
- Instant Palappam Mix: A convenient option that requires minimal preparation time. Just add water and let it rest before cooking.
- Easy Palappam Mix Recipe: Combine rice flour with coconut milk and yeast for a quick batter that yields delicious results.
- Kottayam Style Palappam Ingredients: For those looking for authenticity, soak rice overnight before grinding it into a smooth batter.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Palappam
- Create a smooth appam batter by blending soaked rice with coconut milk at room temperature until well combined.
- A ladle full of batter should be poured into the heated palappam chatti, swirling it to spread evenly across the pan.
- Cover while cooking to ensure steam helps cook the center properly while achieving crispy edges.
Conclusion
The combination of palappam with these delectable side dishes creates a complete meal that showcases the rich flavors of Kerala cuisine. Whether you opt for vegetable stew or kadala curry, these accompaniments enhance your dining experience. With various mixes available like easy palappam mix or instant palappam mix, making this traditional dish at home has never been easier!
FAQs about Palappam and Side Dishes
1.What type of flour is best for making palappam?
Rice flour is typically used; you can also blend regular rice into flour for authentic taste.
2. Can I make palappam without yeast?
Yes, you can use fermented rice batter without yeast for an alternative texture.
3. What are some vegetarian options to serve with palappam?
Vegetable stew and kadala curry are excellent vegetarian choices that pair well with palappam.
4.How do I store leftover palappam?
Store leftover appams in an airtight container in the refrigerator; reheat before serving.
5. If I use an instant mix, how do I prepare it?
Follow package instructions; usually involves adding water and letting it rest before cooking in a chatti.