Idiyappam: Where Every Bite Takes Me Back to Her Kitchen

Idiyappam is one of those dishes I don’t make often, but whenever I see it or have the chance to eat it, it always takes me back to a special memory of an aunty in our apartment. I still vividly remember that one evening when she showed my mom how to make idiyappam for the first time. A Tamilian by heritage, she had a way of infusing every dish she made with love and tradition.

Every December 31st, while the chill of the winter night embraced our apartment complex, my mom and aunty would stand outside, surrounded by plates of white rice flour, sketching intricate muggu (kolam) designs on the pavement as they welcomed the New Year. My sister and I would be there too, playing in the cold, doing our best to help, but mostly watching in awe. Their hands moved with purpose and grace, and the kolam wasn’t just a decoration—it was a ritual, one of love and care that marked the beginning of a fresh new year.

And then there were the beautiful celebrations of Janmashtami. Aunty’s tiny Krishna feet drawn meticulously on the stairs, and the elegant bommala koluvu (toy display) that took over her home, bringing joy to everyone who saw it. It was like walking into another world, a space where tradition and love existed in perfect harmony.

But there’s one dish that will always take me back to those beautiful memories: her idiyappam. Made with simple rice flour, steamed into delicate strands using a murukku press, and served with veggie kurma or coconut milk, it was a staple at their home. Each bite was a reminder of the way she made everything feel special, from the food to the way she celebrated life. Even now, when I eat or make idiyappam, I feel her presence — not just in the ingredients, but in the love and care that goes into making it.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of rice flour (preferably roasted for the best texture)
• 1 ½ cups of hot water
• A pinch of salt
• A teaspoon of ghee or butter (optional, for extra flavor)
• A little coconut (optional, for serving with coconut milk)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, mix the rice flour with a pinch of salt. Gradually add the hot water while stirring continuously to form a soft, smooth dough. If you’d like, add a bit of ghee or butter to make the dough richer.

2. Set up your press: Grease your idiyappam press or murukku press with a little oil and dust it with rice flour so the dough doesn’t stick.

3. Press the dough: Take small portions of dough and press them through the murukku press to form fine, thin strands. Arrange them carefully on a steaming plate, stacking them gently.

4. Steam the idiyappam: Place the steaming plate in a steamer or idli cooker and steam for about 10 minutes, or until the idiyappam turns soft and fluffy.

5. Serve and enjoy: Serve your idiyappam with coconut milk or veggie kurma, just like my aunty did. Each bite will take you on a journey of nostalgia, filled with warmth and love.

Srishti’s Secret Tip for the Perfect Idiyappam:

For that perfect melt-in-your-mouth idiyappam, the key is in the consistency of the dough. It needs to be soft but firm enough to hold its shape. The secret is to knead the dough while it’s still warm. This helps the rice flour absorb the hot water properly and ensures that the idiyappam strands come out perfectly thin and delicate. If the dough feels too dry, add a little more hot water, but don’t let it get too sticky.

Srishti’s Healing Tip for the Perfect Plate:

Idiyappam is not just food; it’s nourishment for the soul. To make your plate truly healing, take a moment to savor the quiet and simplicity that this dish represents. As you serve it, reflect on the memories and the people that bring meaning to your life. The delicate strands of idiyappam carry with them the love and tradition of those who made it before you. Pair it with a side of coconut milk to add a creamy, comforting touch — this combination will bring a sense of peace and connection, just like the meals the aunty made that still live on in my heart.

Why You Will Love It:

This idiyappam is more than just a dish — it’s an experience. From the gentle press of the dough through the murukku plate to the soft, warm strands that melt in your mouth, every step of the process is a reminder of the love and tradition that food holds. It’s the perfect comfort food, not just for the body, but for the soul. Whether you’re making it for yourself or sharing it with loved ones, each bite will remind you that food isn’t just about what’s on your plate; it’s about the people who make it, the memories it holds, and the love it brings to the table.