Crispy Kuzhi Paniyaram (Appe): South Indian Savory Dumplings
1 hour 15 minutes
714 reads

About Crispy Kuzhi Paniyaram (Appe): South Indian Savory Dumplings
Craving a crispy, savory, and utterly delightful South Indian breakfast? Look no further than Kuzhi Paniyaram, also known as Appe, these bite-sized dumplings are a true taste of tradition.Made with a fermented batter, each Paniyaram boasts a wonderfully crisp exterior and a soft, spongy center. This recipe guides you through every step, from scratch to a perfect golden finish.Complete the experience with a vibrant Coconut Chutney, ideal for dipping. Whether it's a weekend brunch or a special breakfast, Kuzhi Paniyaram promises an explosion of flavor.
Recipe Time & More
Prep15 minutes
Cook1 hour
Total1 hour 15 minutes
Ingredients
Batter
- 1 packet Dhokla Mix (use gits or mtr brand), instant
- 2.5 tbsp Yogurt
- 230 ml Water
- 2.5 tbsp Oil
- 1.5 tsp Salt or to taste
Coconut Chutney
- 1 cup Coconut grated or chopped, fresh
- 1.5 tbsp Oil
- 1 tbsp Mustard Seeds
- 3-4 Curry Leaves
- 0.5 cup Water
- 0.5 tsp Salt or to taste
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, water, and oil. Whisk well to ensure the ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Add the instant dhokla mix to the wet ingredients. Whisk thoroughly until no lumps remain, creating a smooth batter. This forms the base for your Kuzhi Paniyaram.
- Heat a paniyaram pan over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil to each mold. This prevents sticking and ensures even browning.
- Carefully pour a spoonful of batter into each hot, oiled mold. Fill each mold about ¾ full to allow for expansion during cooking.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the bottoms are golden brown and crisp. The edges will start to pull away from the pan when they are ready to flip.
- Gently flip each paniyaram using a small spoon or skewer. Cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
- To prepare the Coconut Chutney, combine the grated coconut and ½ cup of water in a blender or food processor. Blend until a smooth paste forms.
- Heat the oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds and allow them to splutter. This releases their aromatic flavor.
- Add the curry leaves to the pan and sauté for a few seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.
- Pour the coconut paste into the pan and stir well to combine. Add salt to taste. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the chutney is heated through and slightly thickened.
- Serve the hot, crispy Kuzhi Paniyaram immediately with the fresh Coconut Chutney. Enjoy!
Recipe Notes
Good To Know
- For extra crunch and flavor, add finely chopped onions, grated carrots, or chopped green chilies directly to the batter before pouring it into the pan.
- If your batter is too thick, loosen it with a splash of water or buttermilk for a lighter, fluffier paniyaram.
- To achieve an even golden crust, heat the paniyaram pan well before adding the batter and drizzle a few drops of oil into each mould before pouring.
Expert Tips
- Experiment with different toppings and dips! Paniyaram pairs well with chutneys, sambar, or even a simple yogurt dip.
- For a savory variation, add spices like cumin powder, coriander powder, or garam masala to the batter.
- Don't overcrowd the pan. Leave some space between each paniyaram to ensure even cooking.
Storage Instructions
- Leftover paniyaram can be cooled and stored in an airtight container for up to two days; briefly reheat them in the pan to restore their crispness before serving.
Recipe Nutrition
Calories: 259kcalCarbohydrates: 1gProtein: 1gFat: 29gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 7.2gMonounsaturated Fat: 14.4gSodium: 1710mgSugar: 1g
5 Comments
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.





This is so tempting! Thank you.
This looks so good! Appreciate the share.
Lovely recipe
This is so inspiring! Can’t wait to cook it.
What a great recipe! Thanks for sharing.