Crispy Kerala Achappam: Delightful Fried Rose Cookies Recipe

Achappam Recipe | Kerala Style Fried Rose Cookies

Achappam, also known as Kerala Style Fried Rose Cookies, is a delightful snack that perfectly embodies the essence of traditional Kerala cuisine. These crispy, intricate cookies are often enjoyed during festive occasions or simply as an evening snack, paired beautifully with a smoothie or tea. With their delicate shape and subtly sweet flavor, Achappam is sure to bring joy to your table. Here’s how to create this culinary delight from scratch.

Ingredients

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Preparation Time

Servings

| Servings | 10 |

Instructions

1. Sift the Flour: Begin your Achappam journey by sifting the rice flour through a fine sieve. This step is crucial as it aerates the flour, ensuring a lighter texture for your cookies.

2. Mix the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, pour in the coconut milk. Gradually add the sifted rice flour while continuously stirring with a spatula. Your goal is to achieve a fine and smooth batter.

3. Incorporate Eggs: In a separate bowl, beat the whole egg until it is fluffy, then gently fold it into the flour mixture. This addition will contribute to the airy texture of the cookies.

4. Add Sweetness: Gradually mix in the powdered icing sugar, whisking the batter using an electric mixer. This helps eliminate any lumps, ensuring a perfectly smooth consistency. If you find the batter to be overly thick, feel free to adjust it with a little more coconut milk until you reach the desired thickness.

5. Season the Batter: Stir in the fennel seeds and a pinch of salt. The fennel adds a delightful hint of flavor that complements the sweetness of the cookies.

6. Heat the Oil: In a thick-bottomed frying pan, heat sunflower oil over medium heat. It’s important to let the oil reach the right temperature, which will ensure your cookies fry evenly.

7. Prepare the Mold: Immerse the iron or steel Achappam mold into the hot oil for about a minute. This step is vital, as a hot mold helps the batter adhere better when dipped.

8. Coat the Mold: Carefully remove the mold from the oil and immediately dip it into the prepared batter. Ensure that the mold is only three-quarters immersed; this will facilitate easy removal of the cookies once fried.

9. Fry the Cookies: Reimmerse the batter-coated mold back into the hot oil, holding it there for one to two minutes. Watch closely as the batter transforms into a golden, crispy delight. The cookies will naturally detach from the mold when they are ready.

10. Drain and Serve: Once fried to perfection, use a perforated ladle to remove the Achappam from the oil. Place them on a kitchen towel to absorb any excess oil. Repeat this process until all the batter is used up.

11. Enjoy: Serve your Kerala Style Fried Rose Cookies warm, either as a standalone treat or alongside your favorite smoothie. Their light and crispy nature makes them an irresistible addition to any snack table.

Tips for Perfect Achappam

• Oil Temperature: Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying; if it’s not hot, the cookies may absorb too much oil and become greasy.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add a hint of cardamom or a splash of vanilla extract for a unique twist on this classic recipe.
• Storage: These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for a few days, although they are best enjoyed fresh for optimal crunchiness.

This traditional Kerala treat is not only a testament to the region’s rich culinary heritage but also a fun and engaging recipe to prepare. Enjoy making Achappam and share the delightful experience with your loved ones!