What is Paniyaram?
Paniyaram (Tamil name) is known by different names depending on the region, so it can be called kulu/kuli paniyaram, gunta ponganalu, paddu etc. These have plain, spiced or sweet versions. Being fried in oil, they are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside. My mom used to make these all the time during my childhood and it was one of my favourite alternatives to dosa/idli. It is definitely a kid as well as adult favourite!
How to make Kuzhi Paniyaram? Tips and substitutions
This recipe calls for really simple ingredients like rice, onions, mustard seeds, green chilli peppers, etc., so the star of the scene is the pan.
Paniyaram pan:
This recipe requires a special pan that is usually called as Paniyaram chatti or appe pan. This cookware comes with several mini round moulds and is similar to the Takoyaki (たこ焼き器) pan used to make Takoyaki in Japan or æbleskiver pan used used to make æbleskivers (danish pancakes) in Europe. I use a Takoyaki pan and it works perfectly well!
Idli batter:
Start with making idli batter, or use leftover idli batter. You can find the recipe right here, if you don’t know how to make it. Take out 2 cups of the batter and set aside.
Onion mixture:
Make the onion mixture that needs to be added to the idli batter. I used a mix that includes red onions, mustard seeds, ginger, green chilli peppers, chopped curry leaves, but you can choose to add or remove whatever ingredient you need to. Ideas for other additions: You can use red chilli powder for an extra kick, hing (asafoetida), ground black pepper, shredded coconut or fresh coriander.
Cooking Paniyaram:
Heat the Paniyaram pan on a stovetop, and add some oil (about 1 tsp in each mould). Be careful on this step, the type of pan determines the cook time. If its a light-weigh pan, the paniyarams will cook faster, so keep a medium to low flame in that case.Pour the spiced batter in the moulds so that it fills up to ¾ of the volume.Cook for a few minutes on low to medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes, covering the pan if necessary. Regulate the heat according to the pan, because this varies depending on the quality.You might need to flip them once or more to get the desired grip you prefer. I like it extra crispy and golden brown. When the paniyarams are golden, serve hot, or store in an air tight jar once cooled.
Serving the kulfi/kuzhi Paniyaram:
You can serve kuzhi paniyaram hot or warm with tomato onion chutney, kara chutney, idli podi or coconut chutney. Check out other South Indian recipes from the blog:
Kerala Kadala Curry/KariSambarIdli and Dosa
