Kerala Style Idiyappam Recipe | Soft, Fluffy & Perfect Every Time

Kerala cuisine is a treasure trove of aromas, textures, and traditions — and among its many beloved delicacies, Idiyappam holds a special place. Also known as string hoppers, idiyappam is a steamed rice-noodle dish that’s light, healthy, and perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. In this blog, we’ll take you through an authentic Kerala style idiyappam recipe, step-by-step tips to make soft and perfect string hoppers, and how using the Idiyappam Stand Stainless Steel Steamer Plate from FourBrothers.in can upgrade your idiyappam game effortlessly.

What Is Idiyappam?

Idiyappam is traditionally made from rice flour dough that is pressed into thin strands and steamed to create delicate nests of rice noodles. In Kerala, it’s typically paired with coconut milk, vegetable stew, or spicy curries like kadala curry (black chickpea curry).

While idiyappam may seem simple, the trick lies in getting the texture just right — neither soggy nor dry, but soft, springy, and perfect to soak up the flavors of your favorite accompaniments.

Why This Kerala Style Recipe Works

This Kerala style idiyappam recipe focuses on:

• Moist and flexible rice dough
• Even extrusion through the idiyappam press
• Gentle steaming that preserves softness
• Tools that make the process easy even for beginners

And speaking of tools…

Make Idiyappam Like a Pro with the Right Equipment

One of the biggest differences between good idiyappam and great idiyappam is the steaming method. Using an idiyappam stand / steamer plate ensures each portion steams evenly and releases easily.

Check out the Idiyappam Stand Stainless Steel Steamer Plate at fourbrothers.in — designed with multiple perforations for optimal steam circulation and made from durable stainless steel that lasts a lifetime.

Buy now: https://fourbrothers.in/products/idiyappam-stand-stainless-steel-steamer-plate

This stand fits most standard idiyappam makers and steamer setups, giving you neat, perfectly shaped idiyappam every time — no sticking, no tearing.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• Rice flour – 2 cups (regular or idiyappam rice flour)
• Boiling water – 2 cups
• Salt – ½ tsp (adjust to taste)
• Oil – 1 tsp (optional)
• Fresh grated coconut – for garnish

Step-by-Step Idiyappam Recipe (Kerala Style)

1. Prepare the Dough

1. Heat water in a kettle or pan until it boils.
2. Place rice flour and salt in a large mixing bowl.
3. Pour the boiling water over the flour slowly, stirring continuously with a spoon.
4. Once the water is absorbed, use your hands to knead into a soft, pliable dough.
   Tip: The dough should be smooth and free of lumps. If too dry, add a splash of hot water; if too sticky, dust with a little more rice flour.

2. Prepare the Steamer

Set up your idiyappam steamer or large pot with a steamer insert. Add enough water to generate steam but not touch the steamer plate.

Place the Idiyappam Stand Stainless Steel Steamer Plate inside. The multiple holes ensure excellent steam flow, which results in uniformly cooked idiyappam.

Unlike flat plates, this stand helps steam each idiyappam layer evenly, keeping them soft and fluffy.

3. Load the Idiyappam Press

Take your idiyappam press (also called an attappam press) and fill it with the prepared dough. Lock the lid and ensure it’s secure.

4. Press and Steam

1. Grease the steaming plate lightly with oil (optional).
2. Hold the press over the steaming plate and squeeze gently to form spirals or nests.
3. Space them slightly apart so steam can reach all sides.
4. Cover the steamer and steam for 8–10 minutes on medium heat.

You’ll know the idiyappam is done when it looks translucent and fragrant.

5. Serve Hot

Once steamed, remove the plate from the steamer and let it cool slightly. Use a spatula to gently lift the idiyappam.

Garnish with fresh coconut and pair with your favorite side — be it coconut milk sweetened with jaggery, vegetable stew, chicken curry, or kadala curry.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Idiyappam Every Time

✔ Dough Consistency Matters

Your dough should be soft and pliable — not crumbly or sticky. Slight adjustments with hot water or rice flour can make all the difference.

✔ Use Fresh Rice Flour

Fresh, high-quality rice flour makes the noodles tender. Pre-packaged flour sometimes needs to be sieved to avoid lumps.

✔ Steam Gently

Too high heat can make the noodles dry. Medium heat keeps them soft and glossy.

✔ Don’t Overcrowd the Plate

Using the idiyappam steamer stand ensures good spacing, allowing steam to circulate freely for even cooking.

Serving Suggestions (Kerala Favorites)

Idiyappam is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a range of sides:

• Coconut Milk & Jaggery: A classic sweet combo. Warm the coconut milk with jaggery and pour over idiyappam.
• Vegetable Stew: Mildly spiced coconut stew with carrots, beans, potatoes.
• Kadala Curry: Rich black chickpea curry with aromatic spices.
• Egg Curry: A hearty choice for lunch or dinner.

Whichever accompaniment you choose, idiyappam acts as the perfect base — soaking up the flavors and making every bite memorable.

Why Every Kitchen Needs the Idiyappam Stand from FourBrothers.in

Making idiyappam the traditional way can be challenging — especially when you’re dealing with flimsy plates or uneven steam. The Idiyappam Stand Stainless Steel Steamer Plate solves these problems:

Key Features

• Premium Stainless Steel: Durable, rust-free, long-lasting.
• Perfectly Sized Holes: For optimal steam circulation.
• Stable & Easy to Use: Fits most steamers and idiyappam presses.
• Easy to Clean: Dishwasher-friendly.

This isn’t just a steamer plate — it’s a game changer for anyone who loves South Indian breakfasts or hosts guests often. Whether you’re making idiyappam once a week or for special occasions, this stand makes every batch better.

Order yours today: https://fourbrothers.in/products/idiyappam-stand-stainless-steel-steamer-plate

Final Thoughts

Kerala style idiyappam is more than a dish — it’s a beloved tradition that brings comfort and joy to the table. With the right recipe and tools like the Idiyappam Stand Stainless Steel Steamer Plate, you can recreate this classic in your home with ease.

From soft rice strings to flavorful accompaniments, every element works in harmony to create a beautiful culinary experience. So gather your ingredients, fire up the steamer, and enjoy the delicious simplicity of homemade idiyappam!