Share
Appe is not just a South Indian delicacy. it is also found in Maharashtrian and Konkani cuisine, where it is known as appe or guliyappa. These delicious snacks are now popular in many states across India. Over time, different variations have emerged, including sweet and savoury versions, making appe a versatile dish enjoyed across India.
Appe has its roots in traditional South Indian households, particularly in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh. It is believed to have originated as a way to use leftover dosa or idli batter, preventing food wastage. The batter is poured into a specially designed appe pan, giving it a unique round shape.
Video Credit: Recipeana Recipies
In Maharashtra and Goa, appe is made using a similar method but with different spices and ingredients. Some variations even include jaggery and coconut for a sweeter version. It has gained popularity across India and beyond, with fusion recipes introducing new flavours and ingredients.
Types Of Appe
Savoury Appe (Kuzhi Paniyaram)
The most common type, made with fermented rice and urad dal batter, seasoned with mustard seeds, curry leaves, green chilies, and onions. It is served with coconut chutney or sambar.
Sweet Appe (Jaggery Paniyaram)
A dessert version is made by mixing jaggery, coconut, and cardamom into the batter. This is popular in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
Rava Appe (Instant Paniyaram)
This is a quick, non-fermented version using semolina (rava), curd, and vegetables. Ideal for those who want a quick breakfast or snack.
Masala Appe
A spicier version where finely chopped onions, green chilies, grated carrots, and coriander leaves are added for extra flavour.
Stuffed Appe
A fusion dish where the appe is stuffed with spiced potatoes, paneer, or cheese, making it an exciting variation for kids and party snacks.
Moong Dal Appe
This is a nutritious and protein-rich variation of the traditional appe, made using soaked and ground moong dal instead of rice and urad dal. The batter is typically blended with ginger, green chilies, and cumin for added flavour. Unlike fermented batter, moong dal appe can be made instantly after grinding the dal, making it a quick and convenient option.
Traditional Savoury Appe Recipe (Savoury Kuzhi Paniyaram)
Ingredients:
- 2 cups idli/dosa batter (fermented)
- 1 small onion
- 1-2 green chillies
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- 1 tsp urad dal
- 1 tsp chana dal
- 1 sprig curry leaves
- 2 tbsp grated coconut
- 2 tbsp coriander leaves
- 1 tbsp oil
- Salt
Instructions:
- Heat oil in a pan, add mustard seeds, urad dal, chana dal, and curry leaves. Sauté until golden brown.
- Add the tempered mixture, onions, green chilies, coriander, and grated coconut to the dosa batter. Mix well.
- Grease the cavities of the appe pan with oil and heat it on medium flame.
- Pour the batter into each cavity, cover with a lid, and cook for 2-3 minutes. Flip using a skewer or spoon and cook for another 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
- Enjoy with coconut chutney or sambar.
Tips To Make The Perfect Appe
Use Well Fermented Batter: This ensures the appe turns out soft and fluffy.
Preheat The Appe Pan: A properly heated pan prevents sticking and gives a crispy texture.
Grease The Pan Well: Use ghee or oil to enhance the flavor and prevent burning.
Cook On Low-Medium Flame: This allows even cooking without burning.
Don’t Overfill The Cavities: Leave some space for the batter to rise while cooking.
Experiment With Fillings: Try stuffing the appe with cheese, mashed potatoes, or paneer for variety.
Serve Hot: Appe tastes best when served fresh and hot with chutneys or sambar.
Appe is a delightful snack that is easy to make, healthy, and versatile. Whether you prefer the traditional Kuzhi Paniyaram, an instant Rava Appe, or a sweet Jaggery version, there’s an appe recipe for everyone. With simple ingredients and the right techniques, you can prepare a delicious batch of appe in no time.
