CELEBRITY MASTER CHEF DR KAVIRAJ KHIALANI
Introduction to Paniyaram
“Paniyaram” is indeed a popular South Indian dish made from a fermented rice and urad dal (black gram) batter, which is typically seasoned with various spices and ingredients. These batter-filled dumplings are either fried or steamed to create a delicious snack or breakfast item.
As for the history of Paniyaram, it is deeply rooted in South Indian culinary traditions and has been prepared for generations. The dish is a versatile one, and variations exist in different South Indian states and communities, with each region adding its own twist and flavours to the basic recipe.
If “Paniyaram Saga” is a specific variation or a localized term, its history and details may still be limited in widely available sources. I would recommend consulting regional cookbooks, local experts, or online resources that specifically focus on South Indian cuisine to learn more about any unique variations or preparations associated with this term.
Types of Paniyarams
Paniyaram is a versatile South Indian dish, and there are several types and variations of paniyaram, each with its unique flavours and ingredients. Here are some popular types of paniyarams:
- Kuzhi Paniyaram: This is the most common type of paniyaram and is made using a batter of fermented rice and urad dal (black gram). The batter is seasoned with salt, and sometimes, finely chopped onions, green chilies, and curry leaves are added to give it flavour. Kuzhi Paniyaram is typically made in a special pan with small, round molds.
- Masala Paniyaram: In this variation, the batter is enriched with a mixture of spices and ingredients, such as mustard seeds, cumin seeds, grated coconut, and finely chopped vegetables like carrots and capsicum. It results in a spicier and more flavourful paniyaram.
- Sweet Paniyaram: These paniyaram are made by adding sugar, cardamom, and sometimes jaggery to the batter. Sweet paniyaram is a delightful dessert or snack and can be served with a side of coconut chutney or sweet dipping sauces.
- Ghee Paniyaram: Ghee paniyaram is made by adding ghee (clarified butter) to the batter. This gives it a rich and buttery flavour, making it a special treat.
- Wheat Flour Paniyaram: An alternative to the traditional rice batter, this version uses wheat flour for a quicker preparation. It’s often made when there’s no time for the rice and urad dal batter to ferment.
- Millets Paniyaram: Some people use millet flours like ragi, bajra, or foxtail millet to make paniyaram. These variations are healthier and gluten-free options.
- Leftover Idli/Dosa Batter Paniyaram: Instead of a specific type, this is a frugal use of leftover idli or dosa batter. You can add some seasoning and make paniyaram with it.
- Paddu: Paddu, also known as Appe in some regions, is a type of paniyaram made with a spiced rice and urad dal batter, usually without any added vegetables. It’s a popular snack in Karnataka.
- Kara Paniyaram: “Kara” means spicy in Tamil, and these Paniyaram are made with a spicy batter. Green chilies and black pepper are commonly used to add heat and flavour.
These are just a few examples of the many variations of paniyaram. The choice of ingredients and seasonings can vary greatly depending on regional preferences and personal taste. Paniyaram is a delicious and adaptable dish that can be customized to suit your preferences.
7 ways to prepare menu at home
CLASSIC PANIYARAM
Ingredients
- 1 cup rice
- 1/4 cup urad dal (black gram)
- Salt to taste
- Oil for greasing the paniyaram pan
Method
- Soak rice and urad dal separately for 4-6 hours.
- Grind them to a smooth batter individually, then mix them together.
- Add salt and allow the batter to ferment for 6-8 hours or overnight.
- Heat a paniyaram pan, grease the molds with a little oil.
- Pour the batter into the molds and cook until they turn golden brown on both sides.
- Serve with coconut chutney and sambar.
MASALA PANIYARAM
Ingredients
- Classic paniyaram batter
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onions
- 2-3 green chilies, finely chopped
- A handful of curry leaves, chopped
- Salt to taste
- Oil for greasing the pan
Method
- Add chopped onions, green chilies, and curry leaves to the batter.
- Mix well and adjust salt to taste.
- Grease the paniyaram pan and pour the batter into the molds.
- Cook until they are crispy and golden brown.
SWEET PANIYARAM
Ingredients
- Classic paniyaram batter
- 1/4 cup grated coconut
- 1/4 cup jaggery, grated
- 1/2 tsp cardamom powder
- A pinch of salt
- Ghee for greasing the pan
Method
- Mix grated coconut, jaggery, cardamom powder, and a pinch of salt into the batter.
- Grease the paniyaram pan with ghee.
- Pour the sweet batter into the molds.
- Cook until they caramelize and turn sweet and aromatic.
GHEE PANIYARAM
Ingredients
- Classic paniyaram batter
- Ghee (clarified butter)
- Oil for greasing the pan
Method
- Mix ghee into the paniyaram batter.
- Grease the paniyaram pan with oil.
- Pour the ghee-infused batter into the molds.
- Cook until they are aromatic and golden brown.
ONION AND GREEN CHILIES PANIYARAM
Ingredients
- Classic paniyaram batter
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onions
- 2-3 green chilies, finely chopped
- A handful of curry leaves, chopped
- Salt to taste
- Oil for greasing the pan
Method
- Add chopped onions, green chilies, and curry leaves to the batter.
- Mix well and adjust salt to taste.
- Grease the paniyaram pan and pour the batter into the molds.
- Cook until they are crispy and golden brown.
MILLET PANIYARAM
Ingredients
- Classic paniyaram batter
- Millet flour (e.g., ragi, bajra, or foxtail millet)
- Salt to taste
- Oil for greasing the pan
Method
- Combine the millet flour with the paniyaram batter.
- Adjust the salt to taste.
- Grease the paniyaram pan and pour the batter into the molds.
- Cook until they are cooked through and golden brown.
CHOCOLATE BANANA PANIYARAM
Ingredients
- Classic paniyaram batter
- Cocoa powder
- Chopped bananas
- Chocolate chips or chocolate chunks
- A pinch of salt
- Honey or maple syrup for drizzling
Method
- Mix cocoa powder and a pinch of salt into the paniyaram batter.
- Add chopped bananas and chocolate chips.
- Grease the paniyaram pan and pour the batter into the molds.
- Cook until they are chocolatey and have melted chocolate inside.
- Serve with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.
Famous places to eat Paniyaram Saga in Mumbai
To enjoy traditional South Indian dishes like Paniyaram, including its various types and flavours, you can explore South Indian restaurants and eateries in Mumbai. Some of the popular areas in Mumbai where you can find South Indian cuisine include Matunga, Sion, King’s Circle, and Charni Road. These neighbourhoods have numerous restaurants and eateries that serve authentic South Indian food, which may include Paniyaram among their offerings.
While you may not find “Pariyaram Saga” specifically, you can enjoy a wide variety of Paniyaram and other South Indian delights at the following well-known South Indian restaurants in Mumbai:
Café Madras (Dadar)
Located in Dadar, Café Madras is famous for its South Indian breakfast items, including various types of paniyaram.
Arya Bhavan (Matunga)
This restaurant in Matunga is known for its authentic South Indian fare and is a popular choice for crispy paniyaram.
Ram Ashraya (Matunga)
Situated in Matunga, Ram Ashraya is another iconic South Indian restaurant where you can savour a range of paniyaram dishes.
Udipi Idli House (King Circle)
With multiple branches across Mumbai, Udipi Idli House is a popular chain for South Indian cuisine and offers a variety of paniyaram options.
Mysore Café (Matunga)
Located in Matunga, Mysore Café is known for its delicious South Indian snacks, including paniyaram.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while “Pariyaram Saga” doesn’t appear to be a widely recognized dish or term as of my last knowledge update in January 2022, you can explore various types of Paniyarams, a traditional South Indian dish, in Mumbai and other South Indian restaurants. These restaurants offer a diverse selection of paniyaram variations, from the classic to innovative versions, allowing you to enjoy the flavours and aromas of South Indian cuisine. Mumbai has a thriving South Indian food scene, so you can explore different eateries to savour these delectable treats. If “Paniyaram Saga” is a unique and specific dish, it may require further research and local knowledge to find the best places to enjoy it in Mumbai.
Celebrity Master Chef Dr Kaviraj Khialani is a Mumbai-based hotel-restaurant and food consultant. He is specialised in over 33 international cuisines and has quality experience with hotels and airlines as a part of his long journey of over two decades in his chosen field. Chef Kaviraj is a renowned author, academician, food designer, writer and has also been awarded several national awards and global recognitions for his talent & outstanding achievements. Besides having been featured on several food shows on ColorsTV and Star Plus he is a mentor, coach and guide to aspiring chefs and hoteliers of tomorrow.
