Idiyappam (String Hoppers)

Delicate, airy, and irresistibly soft, Idiyappam (String Hoppers) is a traditional South Indian and Sri Lankan favorite, perfect for breakfast, dinner, or anytime you crave a comforting meal. Made from just four simple ingredients—rice flour, water, salt, and a dash of oil—this gluten-free dish is hand-crafted into intricate noodle-like nests and gently steamed to perfection. The result is a wonderfully light and versatile base that pairs beautifully with sweetened coconut milk, rich curries, or tangy chutneys. Thanks to its minimal prep time and straightforward technique, this recipe is an excellent introduction to making authentic South Indian steamed delicacies at home. Whether you're exploring global cuisines or looking for a wholesome, gluten-free option, Idiyappam is sure to captivate your taste buds while adding a touch of tradition to your table.

Nutriscore Rating: 71/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 cups Rice flour
• 2 cups Water
• 0.5 teaspoons Salt
• 1 teaspoons Vegetable oil

Directions

Step 1

In a large saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a rolling boil. Add 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil and 0.5 teaspoons of salt to the water.

Step 2

Gradually add 2 cups of rice flour to the boiling water, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. The mixture should come together into a smooth dough.

Step 3

Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the dough to cool slightly until it is warm to the touch but not hot.

Step 4

Knead the dough gently for 5 minutes until it is smooth and pliable.

Step 5

Divide the dough into smaller portions suitable for your idiyappam maker or press.

Step 6

Fill the idiyappam maker with a portion of the dough and press the dough onto lightly greased idli-style steam plates or into a medium-sized idiyappam steamer, creating neat circular nests.

Step 7

Place these plates or the steamer in a steaming pot or idli cooker, ensuring there is ample water beneath for steaming.

Step 8

Cover and steam the idiyappam on medium heat for about 10–12 minutes, or until they are cooked through and appear soft.

Step 9

Carefully remove the steaming plates from the pot and allow the idiyappam to cool for a minute.

Step 10

Serve warm with sweetened coconut milk, spicy curry, or a side dish of your choice.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	803.7 grams (803.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1186

Total Fat 7.50g	10%
Saturated Fat 1.40g	7%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.80g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 1194mg	52%
Total Carbohydrate 251.20g	91%
Dietary Fiber 6.30g	23%
Total Sugars 0.00g
Protein 24.80g	50%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 55mg	4%
Iron 2mg	12%
Potassium 200mg	4%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 5.8%

Protein: 8.5%

Carbs: 85.8%