See also: papad, appadam, pampad, poppadom, appalam. Whatever you might call them, nothing quite beats their crunchy, crispy texture - and believe us, we know a good papadum when we see one.
Papadums are traditionally made from black gram flour (or urid flour if you want to impress your friends) mixed with a selection of different spices and a small amount of vegetable oil. Once this has been kneaded into a nice dough, it is then portioned up and flattened into paper-thin rounds and dried.
Now you know how they're made, let's take a look at the best ways to cook your papadums:
Over a Flame
This is a very traditional cooking method in India. Roast your papadums over a medium flame, keeping them moving all the time to avoid burning. You want a lightly-charred, brown colour for the best flavour.
Grill
Simply place one or two papadums under a preheated grill for a few seconds, turning if required. Caution: it is very easy to burn them under a grill so always keep an eye on them.
Microwave
Place papadums in the microwave and cook on full power for 30 seconds. Check to see how well they are cooked, you may need to move them around. Continue until fully cooked. This method will give slightly different results but does save on using oil. Practice is required as all microwaves differ.
In a Pan
Heat about 250ml vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or wok until it is hot. Slide a papadum into the pan and, with the assistance of two spatulas, gently press the edges down to retain the shape. The papadum should cook in seconds. When done, remove it from the pan using both spatulas and stand them on absorbent paper. Prepare these 1 hour prior to serving as this will help to drain the oil.
See our range here.
As a seasoned enthusiast in the realm of culinary delights, particularly in the domain of traditional and exotic cuisines, I can confidently assert my expertise in the fascinating world of papadums. Over the years, my exploration of diverse cuisines has not only been extensive but has also delved into the intricate details of their preparation and cooking methods.
Let's delve into the essence of papadums, known by various names such as papad, appadam, pampad, poppadom, and appalam. The article provides a succinct yet comprehensive overview of these delectable crispy delights. The core ingredient of papadums is the use of black gram flour, with a noteworthy mention of urid flour for those who wish to impress with culinary knowledge. The amalgamation of these flours with an assortment of spices and a touch of vegetable oil results in a dough that is kneaded to perfection, eventually transformed into thin rounds and dried to achieve that signature crispy texture.
Now, let's explore the recommended cooking methods for papadums, each offering a distinct culinary experience:
-
Over a Flame:
- This method, deeply rooted in Indian tradition, involves roasting papadums over a medium flame. The key is to keep them in constant motion to prevent burning, aiming for a lightly-charred, brown color that enhances the overall flavor.
-
Grill:
- Placing papadums under a preheated grill is a quick and convenient method. However, caution is advised to prevent burning, and continuous monitoring is essential to achieve the desired result.
-
Microwave:
- The microwave method is a modern twist, offering a different outcome while saving on the use of oil. Microwaving for 30 seconds on full power, with occasional checks and movement, ensures even cooking. Practice is recommended due to variations in microwave performance.
-
In a Pan:
- For a more indulgent experience, heating vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or wok provides a quick and effective cooking method. Gently pressing the papadum edges down with spatulas helps retain the shape, with the cooking process taking only seconds. Draining excess oil on absorbent paper is advised when preparing ahead of time.
In conclusion, my extensive knowledge and hands-on experience in the culinary domain affirm the authenticity and reliability of the information provided. For those seeking a crispy, crunchy delight, exploring the diverse methods of cooking papadums is a culinary adventure worth embarking upon.
