Idiyappam (Nool Puttu)

Ingredients

• Rice flour - 2 cup
• Grated coconut - 3 tbsp
• Salt, to taste
• Oil, for greasing
• Idiyappam press
• Idli steamer

Instructions

1. 1Bring about 3 cups of water to a boil.
2. 2In a bowl, combine the rice flour and salt, then slowly add the boiling water little by little while stirring with a spoon until the mixture comes together.
3. 3Knead the mixture until you have a soft, pliable dough; it should be smooth and not sticky—if it feels dry, add a splash of warm water, if it feels too wet, dust with a little more rice flour.
4. 4Lightly grease the idiyappam press and the idli moulds with oil so the noodles release easily.
5. 5Fill the idiyappam press with a small portion of dough and press the strands into the idli moulds in a circular motion to form delicate nests, spacing them so steam can circulate.
6. 6Sprinkle grated coconut over each idiyappam, then place the idli stand in the steamer and steam for about 8-10 minutes, until the nests are set and slightly glossy.
7. 7Carefully lift the idiyappams from the moulds and serve warm with potato stew or egg curry. Optional: serve with thick sweetened coconut milk for a softer, sweeter breakfast.