Baby Appam: A Delicious and Healthy South Indian Breakfast
Baby appam is a popular breakfast dish in South India, particularly in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. These small, fluffy pancakes made with fermented rice and coconut batter are a healthy and nutritious way to start your day. In this blog post, we'll explore the history and health benefits of baby appam, and provide a simple recipe for you to try at home.
History of Baby Appam:
Baby appam is believed to have originated in Kerala, where it is a staple breakfast dish. The word 'appam' is derived from the Tamil word 'appa', which means 'cake'. Traditionally, appams were made with rice flour and toddy (a fermented drink made from coconut sap). However, with the advent of modern technology, people now use yeast or baking soda to ferment the batter.
Health Benefits of Baby Appam:
Baby appams are a healthy breakfast option as they are low in calories and high in nutrients. The fermented batter is rich in probiotics that aid in digestion and improve gut health. Rice is a rich source of carbohydrates, while coconut is rich in healthy fats, making baby appams a well-balanced and nutritious meal.
Recipe for Baby Appam:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of raw rice
- 1 cup of grated coconut
- 1 tsp of instant yeast
- 1 tsp of sugar
- Salt, to taste
- Water, as required
- Oil, for cooking
Instructions:
- Soak the rice in water for 4-5 hours.
- Drain the water and grind the rice and grated coconut together to make a smooth batter.
- Add yeast, sugar, and salt to the batter and mix well.
- Cover the batter and let it ferment for 6-8 hours or overnight.
- Once the batter is fermented, add water to get a pouring consistency.
- Heat a non-stick pan and add a few drops of oil.
- Pour a ladle full of batter into the pan and spread it evenly.
- Cover the pan with a lid and let the appam cook on medium flame for 2-3 minutes.
- Once the edges start turning golden brown, remove the appam from the pan and serve hot.
Conclusion:
Baby appam is a delicious and healthy breakfast option that is easy to make and can be enjoyed by people of all ages. With its rich history and numerous health benefits, baby appam is a must-try dish for anyone looking to explore South Indian cuisine. So why not give this simple recipe a try and enjoy a hearty and nutritious breakfast today?