How to Use an Idiyappam Steamer – Your Guide to Perfect Soft, Fluffy Idiyappams

If you love the delicate, lacy strands of idiyappam (string hoppers), you’ll appreciate the difference that the right steaming equipment makes. With the right tool—and a little know-how—you can produce restaurant-quality idiyappams right at home. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to use an idiyappam steamer step by step, and introduce you to the Four Brothers Idiyappam Stand – Stainless Steel Steamer Plate, built for consistency and convenience.

Why Use a Dedicated Steamer Stand?

Steaming idiyappam or similar delicacies like puttu or kolukkattai is more than just cooking — it’s about getting even steam distribution, gentle heat, and correct shape. A steamer stand designed for idiyappam helps in a number of ways:

• It ensures uniform heat and steam access from below and across each plate.
• It allows you to stack multiple plates, saving time when making for family or for a small gathering.
• It keeps the process clean, durable, and hygienic — especially when made of high-quality stainless steel.

That’s where the Four Brothers Idiyappam Stand comes in. Made of premium food-grade stainless steel with a mirror finish, it’s designed to fit most idli-cookers and steamers for consistent results. With variants available (3, 4, 5 or 6 plates), you can pick the size suited for your family size or batch preparation. 

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Use Your Idiyappam Steamer Stand

Here’s how to get the best results when using the idiyappam steamer stand — from preparation to serving.

1. Prepare the Dough / Rice Mix

• Use your preferred recipe for idiyappam. Typically, use rice flour, hot water, salt, and a bit of oil.
• Mix into a soft, lump-free dough so that it can pass through the idiyappam press/noodle maker smoothly.
• Allow the dough to rest briefly if needed (some recipes will recommend a 10-minute rest).

2. Set Up the Steaming Unit

• Fill your idli-cooker or steamer base with the appropriate amount of water (enough to generate steam throughout the steaming session).
• Insert the Four Brothers steamer stand into the cooker. Its design ensures even steam access under each plate.
• Grease each plate lightly (optional but helpful) to prevent sticking of the idiyappam strands.

3. Portion and Press the Dough

• Divide the dough into manageable portions.
• Place a portion into the idiyappam press machine or hand-press and squeeze the dough into the steamer plate in a circular motion, creating the traditional “nest” shape.
• Make sure the strands are not too densely packed — this ensures steam can penetrate the full thickness.
• Place the filled plate into the steamer stand and stack the next plate, if you are using multiple layers.

4. Steam the Idiyappams

• Cover the cooker/steamer and bring the water to a rolling steam.
• Once steam is strong, place the stand inside and steam typically for about 8-12 minutes (time may vary depending on thickness and amount).
• The Four Brothers stand’s stainless steel build helps maintain a consistent temperature and steam exposure. 
• To check doneness: the idiyappam strands should look cooked (not damp or gooey) and should separate easily with a light touch.

5. Remove and Serve

• Carefully remove the stand from the cooker (use tongs or a cloth—metal will be hot).
• Remove each plate and gently separate the idiyappam from the plate—if you greased lightly, this is very easy.
• Serve immediately while warm and tender.
• Record tip: Keep a bowl of cold water nearby to dip your fingers if the strands stick a little when handling.

6. Clean Up and Care

• After use, allow the stand to cool.
• Wash the plates and stand with warm soapy water; the mirror finish stainless steel of the Four Brothers product is easy to clean and maintain.
• Dry thoroughly to prevent water spots or rusting (though food-grade stainless steel is rust-resistant).
• For long life, store the plates stacked carefully or inverted.

Why the Four Brothers Idiyappam Stand is a Great Choice

Choosing the right steamer stand makes a difference — here’s what sets this product apart:

Material & Build: Made of premium food-grade stainless steel — durable, rust-resistant, and safe for daily use. 
Mirror Finish: Elegant look and easy to clean. 
Even Steam Distribution: Designed to ensure uniform cooking across all plates, meaning each idiyappam comes out just right. 
Multiple Sizes / Plate Counts: Available in 3-plate, 4-plate, 5-plate and 6-plate variants so you can choose based on your family size or how big your batch is. 
Compatibility: Fits inside most idli cookers / steamers — making it convenient for traditional South Indian kitchens. 

Tips & Tricks for Better Idiyappams

• Use the right flour: For best texture, use freshly milled rice flour (or good commercial variety) and ensure proper hydration.
• Don’t over-pack the plate: If the strands are too tightly pressed, steam won’t penetrate and you might get a dense result.
• Steam time: Adjust steam time based on batch size and thickness. In a multi-plate stack as in the Four Brothers stand, the bottom plates may need slightly more time — check carefully.
• Immediate serving: Idiyappams are best enjoyed fresh and warm. If you’re making in bulk ahead of time, keep them wrapped in a clean cloth to retain warmth and moisture.
• Complement with sides: Serve with coconut milk & sugar, spicy coconut chutney, vegetable stew, or kurma — the way many households do in South India.
• Cleaning tip: Avoid harsh scouring pads to preserve the mirror finish; use soft sponge and mild detergent.

Ideal Occasions to Use It

• Weekend breakfast or brunch: When you have time and want to treat your family.
• Festive gatherings: With 4- or 6-plate capacity, you can steam multiple servings at once.
• Meal prepping: Steam batches, cool, then refrigerate for a quick re-heat later.
• Cooking for guests: Impress with soft, perfect idiyappams using a reliable steamer stand.

Final Thoughts

If you’re passionate about making authentic idiyappams or other steamed delicacies like puttu, geb (mallu style) or kolukkattai, then investing in the right equipment can transform your home cooking. The Four Brothers Idiyappam Stand – Stainless Steel Steamer Plate is exactly such an investment: designed with practicality, quality and tradition in mind.

Get your own today from Four Brothers and enjoy steaming perfect idiyappams with ease, consistency and style. Your family (and your guests) will thank you for the soft, fluffy, freshly-steamed goodness.

Happy steaming and bon appetit!