Pudhina Paniyaram

Pudhina Paniyaram is a delicious and flavorful South Indian dish made with a batter of rice and urad dal, flavored with the refreshing taste of mint leaves. This dish, also known as Mint Paniyaram, is a popular snack or breakfast item in Tamil Nadu and is cherished for its crispy exterior and soft interior. The use of mint leaves, known as 'pudhina' in Tamil, gives the paniyarams a unique taste, making them a favorite among both kids and adults. It is traditionally prepared using an appe pan, which gives these savory balls their iconic round shape.

Ingredients

• Rice
• Urad Dal
• Mint Leaves
• Green Chillies
• Ginger
• Cumin Seeds
• Grated Coconut
• Salt
• Oil
• Water

Preparation

To begin with the preparation of Pudhina Paniyaram, you need to first prepare the batter. Wash and soak rice and urad dal separately for about 4 to 5 hours.

Steps for Batter Preparation

1. Drain the rice and grind it into a smooth batter by adding some water.
2. Next, drain the urad dal and grind it into a smooth batter separately.
3. Combine both batters in a large bowl and mix well.
4. Add salt to taste. Allow the batter to ferment overnight or for at least 8 hours for best results.
5. In a grinder, blend the mint leaves, green chillies, and ginger into a fine paste.
6. Add this paste into the fermented batter along with cumin seeds and grated coconut.
7. Mix everything well, ensuring the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Cooking Pudhina Paniyaram

Cooking Pudhina Paniyaram can be quite a fun process with the use of an appe pan. Here’s how you can achieve those crispy and delicious paniyarams:

Steps for Cooking

1. Heat the appe pan on medium heat and pour a few drops of oil into each cavity.
2. Once the pan is hot, pour spoonfuls of the prepared batter into each mold.
3. Cover with a lid and let it cook for a few minutes, checking occasionally.
4. Once the edges start to leave the pan and turn golden brown, gently flip the paniyaram using a skewer or spoon. Cook for another few minutes until it is evenly cooked on all sides.

Serving Suggestions

Pudhina Paniyaram is best enjoyed when served hot. Here are a few ways to enjoy this flavorful dish:

• Serve them with a side of coconut chutney or tomato chutney for a delightful contrast.
• You can also pair them with sambar for a wholesome and nutritious breakfast.
• For a light evening snack, enjoy the paniyarams with a hot cup of tea or coffee.

This versatile dish can be an excellent addition to any meal, providing a burst of fresh mint flavor in every bite.

Be sure to take your time while preparing the batter, as the fermentation process is crucial for the perfect texture and taste of the paniyarams. When you follow these steps and use the listed ingredients properly, your Pudhina Paniyaram will surely be a hit with friends and family!