Kuzhi Paniyaram Recipe – Easy, Crispy & Delicious!
Love South Indian flavors? Kuzhi Paniyaram (also called Paddu, Appe, or Gunta Ponganalu) is a crispy, golden snack with a soft, fluffy center that pairs perfectly with coconut chutney and sambar. The secret to the best paniyaram? A well-seasoned cast iron paniyaram pan!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 3-4
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Batter:
- 1 cup raw rice
- 1 cup idli rice
- ½ cup urad dal (black gram)
- 1 tsp fenugreek seeds
- Salt to taste
For Tempering (For Extra Flavor!):
- 1 tbsp oil (coconut or sesame oil for authentic taste)
- ½ tsp mustard seeds
- 1 tsp urad dal
- 1 tsp chana dal
- 2 green chilies, finely chopped
- A few curry leaves
- 1 onion, finely chopped
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
1️⃣ Soak & Grind: Soak raw rice, idli rice, urad dal, and fenugreek seeds for 4-5 hours.
2️⃣ Blend to Perfection: Drain and grind to a smooth batter, adding water as needed.
3️⃣ Fermentation Magic: Add salt, mix well, and let it ferment overnight for that light, fluffy texture.
New to Cast Iron Cooking? Learn How to Season & Care for Your Cast Iron Cookware to keep it nonstick and long-lasting!
Step 2: Temper for Extra Crunch & Flavor
1️⃣ Heat oil in a small pan and add mustard seeds. Let them pop.
2️⃣ Add urad dal & chana dal – sauté until golden brown.
3️⃣ Toss in green chilies, curry leaves, and onions – cook until soft and aromatic.
4️⃣ Mix this into the fermented batter for an extra crunchy, flavorful paniyaram.
Pro Tip: You can also add grated carrots or chopped coriander for extra flavor!
Step 3: Cooking in a Cast Iron Paniyaram Pan
1️⃣ Preheat your paniyaram pan over medium heat.
2️⃣ Add a few drops of oil in each pit – this enhances crispiness.
3️⃣ Fill each cavity with batter, about ¾ full to allow rising.
4️⃣ Cover & Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the edges are golden brown.
5️⃣ Flip using a skewer or spoon and cook the other side for another 2 minutes.
6️⃣ Once crispy and golden, remove & serve hot!
Best Served With:
✔ Homemade Coconut Chutney
✔ Spicy Tomato Chutney
✔ Sambar for a wholesome meal!
FAQs – Everything You Need to Know About Paniyaram & Cast Iron Pans
Q1: Why should I use a cast iron paniyaram pan instead of nonstick?
✔ Cast iron adds a deep, smoky flavor and improves with use, while nonstick coatings wear off over time.
Q2: Can I use store-bought dosa batter for this recipe?
✔ Yes! Just add some water & a pinch of baking soda to lighten the texture.
Q3: Can I make sweet paniyaram in this pan?
✔ Absolutely! Try a jaggery-based sweet paniyaram for a traditional South Indian treat.
Final Thoughts – Upgrade Your Cooking Today!
Making perfect paniyarams starts with the right cookware. A well-seasoned cast iron paniyaram pan brings out authentic flavors, crispy textures, and a healthier cooking experience.
Ready to cook like a pro? Get your hands on a Premium Cast Iron Paniyaram Pan and start your journey today!
