Idiyappam Recipe Guide – How to Make Perfect String Hoppers at Home

What is Idiyappam?

Idiyappam, also known as string hoppers or nool puttu, is one of Kerala's most beloved breakfast dishes. These delicate, lacy rice flour noodle discs are steamed to perfection and served with coconut milk, egg curry, or a rich vegetable stew. Light, gluten-free, and incredibly satisfying, idiyappam is a staple in every Kerala household.

The secret to great idiyappam is the flour. Brahmins Idiyappam / Appam Podi is specially milled and pre-cooked to give you that authentic soft texture without any guesswork.

Ingredients

• 2 cups Brahmins Idiyappam / Appam Podi
• 2 cups boiling water (approximately)
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp coconut oil
• To serve: fresh coconut milk, banana, or egg curry

Equipment Needed

• Idiyappam press (string hopper mold)
• Idiyappam plates or steamer plates
• Steamer or pressure cooker (without weight)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Boil the water: Bring 2 cups of water to a rolling boil. Add salt and coconut oil.
2. Mix the dough: Place Brahmins Idiyappam Podi in a large bowl. Gradually pour the boiling water over the flour while stirring with a wooden spoon. Mix until a soft, pliable dough forms. The dough should not be sticky — add a little more flour if needed. Let it cool slightly until comfortable to handle.
3. Fill the press: Grease the idiyappam press lightly with coconut oil. Fill it with the dough.
4. Press onto plates: Grease the idiyappam plates with a little coconut oil. Press the dough through the mold in a circular motion onto each plate to form round nests of string hoppers.
5. Steam: Place the plates in a steamer or pressure cooker (without the weight/whistle). Steam for 5–7 minutes until the idiyappam is cooked through and no longer sticky.
6. Serve immediately with fresh coconut milk and a sprinkle of grated coconut, or alongside a spicy egg curry or vegetable stew.

Serving Suggestions

• Sweet: Drizzle with coconut milk and a spoonful of sugar or jaggery — a classic Kerala breakfast.
• Savory: Pair with a spicy chicken or egg curry for a hearty meal.
• With sambar: Serve alongside a bowl of Brahmins Sambar Powder-based sambar for a complete South Indian spread.

Tips for Perfect Idiyappam

• The water must be boiling hot when added to the flour — this is what gives idiyappam its soft, cooked texture.
• Work quickly while the dough is warm; it becomes harder to press as it cools.
• Grease the press and plates generously with coconut oil to prevent sticking.
• Brahmins Idiyappam Podi is pre-cooked, so the steaming time is short — don't over-steam or the hoppers will become rubbery.
• For a variation, try Brahmins Chemba Idiyappam Podi (red rice flour) for a nuttier, more nutritious version.

Shop the Ingredients

Everything you need for homemade idiyappam, delivered to your door:

• Brahmins Idiyappam / Appam Podi – 1 kg
• Brahmins Chemba Idiyappam Podi – 1 kg (red rice variation)
• Brahmins Sambar Powder – 200 g (for serving)