Plain Appalam

Description

Plain Appalam, also known as papadum or papad, is a thin, crispy Indian snack made from a dough consisting of lentil flour or chickpea flour, seasoned with salt and spices, and then dried in the sun or deep-fried. Here’s a detailed description:

Ingredients:

• Lentil Flour or Chickpea Flour: The main ingredient used to make the dough. Lentil flour or chickpea flour gives the appalam its characteristic texture and flavor.
• Salt: Used to enhance the taste of the appalam.
• Spices: Optional spices such as cumin, black pepper, chili powder, or asafoetida may be added for flavor.
• Water: Used to knead the dough to the right consistency.

Preparation Method:

1. Dough Preparation: Lentil flour or chickpea flour is mixed with salt and spices (if desired). Water is gradually added to form a stiff dough.
2. Rolling: The dough is rolled out into thin, round discs on a flat surface using a rolling pin. The thickness of the appalam varies, but it is typically very thin.
3. Drying: The rolled-out appalams are left to dry in the sun for several hours until they become firm and dry. Alternatively, they can be dried indoors in a well-ventilated area.
4. Frying: Once dried, the appalams can be deep-fried in hot oil until they puff up and become crispy.