One of the things that makes Kerala truly unique is its incredible diversity when it comes to cooking styles. Every region within Kerala has its own distinct culinary traditions, and this is especially evident when it comes to the wide variety of dishes that you can find throughout the state.

A perfect example of this culinary diversity can be found in the Malabar region, which is known for its rich and flavorful cuisine. When exploring the culinary delights of Malabar, one cannot miss out on trying the famous Appam. These soft and fluffy pancakes are a classic dish that is loved by locals and visitors alike.

The Malabari version of Appam stands out for its unique taste and preparation method. It is made using a fermented batter consisting of rice, coconut, and a small portion of lentils. The batter is traditionally left to ferment overnight, allowing the flavors to develop and the pancakes to become wonderfully light and airy.

What sets the Malabari Appam apart is its distinctive shape – it is cooked in a special pan called an Appachatti, which gives it a bowl-like appearance with a lacy edge. The edges of the Appam turn out crispy and golden, while the center remains soft and spongy. This delightful contrast in textures makes it a truly fulfilling and satisfying dish.

Appam is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. It pairs perfectly with a range of side dishes and accompaniments, such as a rich and aromatic chicken or vegetable stew, known as Ishtu. The combination of the soft and fluffy Appam with the flavorful stew is a match made in culinary heaven.

Whether you are a food enthusiast or a curious traveler, trying the Malabari Appam is a must-do when visiting Kerala. It not only showcases the culinary expertise of the region but also provides a glimpse into the vibrant culture and tradition that Kerala is renowned for.

So, next time you find yourself in Kerala, make sure to indulge in the delightful Appam in the Malabar style. Its unique flavors and textures are guaranteed to leave you craving for more, and it’s an experience that you won’t soon forget!

To recreate the delightful Appam at home, you will need the following ingredients:

1. 1 cup of raw rice
2. 1/4 cup of cooked rice
3. 1/4 cup of grated coconut
4. 1/2 teaspoon of yeast
5. 1/2 teaspoon of sugar
6. Salt to taste
7. Water as needed

To prepare the Appam batter, follow these steps:

1. Wash the raw rice thoroughly and soak it in water for about 4 hours.
2. In a separate bowl, soak the yeast and sugar in lukewarm water for a few minutes until it froths.
3. Grind the soaked rice, cooked rice, grated coconut, and frothy yeast mixture together in a blender until you get a smooth batter.
4. Transfer the batter to a bowl and add salt to taste. Mix well.
5. Cover the bowl with a clean cloth or lid and let the batter ferment for at least 6-8 hours or overnight. The fermentation process will make the Appam fluffy and soft.
6. Once the batter has fermented, heat a non-stick Appam pan or a regular non-stick pan with a lid.
7. Pour a ladleful of batter into the center of the pan and quickly swirl the pan in a circular motion to spread the batter evenly and form a thin layer around the edges.
8. Cover the pan with a lid and cook the Appam on low heat for about 2-3 minutes until the center is fluffy and the edges are crisp.
9. Remove the Appam from the pan using a spatula and serve it hot with your favorite curry or chutney.

Enjoy the homemade Appam that is soft on the inside and crispy on the outside, providing a perfect combination of flavors with your favorite accompaniments. Happy cooking!