Papad (Poppadoms) Recipe
Description:
Papad, also known as poppadoms, is a crisp, thin, and flavorful Indian snack often enjoyed as an appetizer or side dish. This mildly spiced variation is made with urid flour and rice flour, offering a delicate crunch and a unique texture. Perfectly paired with chutneys, dips, or curries, these papads are versatile and easy to make at home. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this popular dish in no time, making it a must-try for any food lover.
Spice Level: Mild
Prep Time: 1 hr 30 mins
Cook Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 1 hr 35 mins
Serves: 4
Dietary Info:
- Vegetarian
- Suitable for most dietary preferences, including gluten-free if rice flour is used.
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Rating: 3.3 stars
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Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Urid flour | 4 oz |
| Rice flour | 2 oz |
| Turmeric powder | ½ tsp |
| Pink rock salt | ½ tsp |
| Coconut oil | 2 tsp |
| Water | 40 ml |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Flour Mix:
In a large bowl, combine the urid flour, rice flour, turmeric powder, and pink rock salt. Mix the dry ingredients thoroughly. If you prefer a spicier version, this is the time to add any additional spices, such as cumin, ground black pepper, ajwain (carom seeds), garlic powder, or chili flakes to your taste. -
Form the Dough:
Add the coconut oil to the flour mixture and begin adding water gradually, a little at a time. Stir continuously to form a stiff dough. Once the dough begins to come together, knead it for a few minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. -
Rest the Dough:
Once the dough is kneaded, wrap it tightly in cling film and allow it to rest for about an hour. This resting period will help develop the dough’s texture, making it easier to roll out. -
Shape the Poppadoms:
After resting, divide the dough into six equal-sized balls. Dust your work surface with some flour to prevent sticking. Roll each ball into a thin circle, approximately 1mm thick. Ensure they are even and consistent to achieve that classic papad texture. -
Dry the Poppadoms:
Lay the rolled-out poppadoms on a sheet of kitchen paper to dry for about 20 minutes. If the weather permits, you can place them in the sun to speed up the drying process. The goal is to let them dehydrate before frying. You can also store these dried poppadoms in an airtight container for later use. -
Fry the Poppadoms:
Heat oil in a wok or deep frying pan. To check if the oil is hot enough, drop a small piece of dough into the oil. If it sinks and then rises to the surface quickly, the oil is ready for frying. Gently place one poppadom into the hot oil. Press it lightly with a spatula to ensure it fries evenly. The poppadom will bubble and puff up. Let it fry for about a minute or until golden brown and crispy. -
Drain and Serve:
Once the poppadom is golden and crispy, remove it from the oil and set it on a paper towel to drain excess oil. Repeat the process with the remaining poppadoms. Serve them immediately with your favorite dips, chutneys, or as a side dish to your main meal.
Tips for Perfect Papad:
- Rolling Consistency: Ensure you roll out the dough to a consistent thickness for even frying. The thinner the papad, the crispier it will become.
- Drying: Properly drying the papad before frying is crucial for a crispy result. Sun-drying is the best option for achieving a more authentic texture.
- Spices: Feel free to experiment with different spices based on your preferences. Adding cumin or garlic powder can give a more aromatic flavor, while chili flakes will add some heat.
Allergen Information:
- Contains: Coconut oil (for frying), which may be of concern to those with nut allergies.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but ensure that all your ingredients, especially the flours, are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
Dietary Preferences:
- Vegetarian: This recipe is fully vegetarian, making it suitable for those following a plant-based or meat-free diet.
- Gluten-Free: With the use of rice flour and urid flour, this dish can be suitable for gluten-intolerant individuals, assuming that the ingredients used are free from cross-contamination.
Conclusion:
Papad (Poppadoms) is a delightful, crunchy treat that complements a variety of meals, from curries to dips. By making these at home, you have complete control over the ingredients, allowing you to customize the spice levels and ensure freshness. This recipe brings the essence of Indian snacking into your kitchen, offering a perfect balance of simplicity and flavor. Whether served as a side dish or enjoyed on their own with your favorite chutneys, these poppadoms are sure to impress and satisfy any cravings for crispy snacks.
Enjoy your homemade papad with loved ones, and remember, they are best served fresh and warm for that irresistible crunch!
