Kuzhi paniyaram is a spicy version of South Indian snack made with Rice and skinned Black lentil batter and mixed with other spices. The mix is then poured and shallow fried in a vessel specially made for this.

Step 1:

To make the batter, take about one cup of Black lentil (skinned & white) and four cups of Rice (preferably boiled rice). Soak them separately in water for about 6 to 8 hours.

Wash and clean the soaked rice and Black lentil and grind them separately in a mixer grinder to a paste. The ground batter is then removed from the grinder and kept overnight in a warm place. This will allow the batter to naturally ferment to a required taste.

Step 2:

Ingredients to make Kuzhi paniyaram

Take about 2 cups of the fermented batter, two medium sized Onions chopped, two green chillies chopped, handful of curry leaves chopped, one teaspoon of Black pepper, two teaspoons of Cumin seed powder and salt to taste. Mix all ingredients together and keep aside.

Step 3:

Kuzhi paniyarams are prepared in a vessel specially made for this. The vessel consists of depressions or holes in which the mixed batter is poured and shallow fried.

Heat the Kuzhi paniyaram pan in medium heat. Add few drops of cooking oil in each hole. Pour the mixed batter and allow few minutes for one side to cook to a golden brown.

When the bottom side is cooked golden brown, turn it upside down with the skewer. It is very easy.

Step 4:

When the other side is also cooked take the Paniyarams out with the help of the skewer.

The spicy Paniyarams can be eaten with any sauce, Chutney or simply with sugar. Makes a delicious evening snack with coffee.