Cuisine : String Hoppers - How to prepare this dish of South India & Sri Lanka

 

String hoppers, also known as "idiyappam" in South India, are a popular dish made from rice flour dough. Here's how to prepare them in detail:

Ingredients:

- 2 cups rice flour

- 1 to 1 1/2 cups hot water

- 1/2 teaspoon salt

- Water, as needed

- Grated coconut (optional, for serving)

Equipment:

- String hopper maker (also known as an idiyappam press)

- Steamer or idli maker

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the rice flour and salt.

2. Gradually add hot water to the flour mixture while stirring with a spoon. The dough should come together to form a smooth, pliable dough. Add water as needed to achieve the right consistency; the dough should be soft but not too sticky.

3. Once the dough is formed, knead it well for about 5 minutes to ensure it's smooth and elastic.

4. Fill the string hopper maker with the dough, pressing it down firmly.

5. Heat water in the steamer or idli maker until it reaches a gentle boil.

6. Place the string hopper maker over the steamer or idli plates and press out the dough in circular motions to form thin strands onto the plates.

7. Cover the steamer or idli maker with a lid and steam the string hoppers for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are cooked through.

8. Once cooked, carefully remove the string hoppers from the steamer or idli plates using a spatula and transfer them to a serving plate.

9. Repeat the process with the remaining dough until all the string hoppers are made.

10. Serve the string hoppers warm with your choice of accompaniments, such as coconut milk, dhal curry, or coconut sambal. Optionally, you can sprinkle grated coconut on top for added flavor.

Enjoy your homemade string hoppers!