Discover how to make delicious Hoppers (Appa), traditional bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour. This versatile recipe is perfect for serving with flavorful curries or topped with a sunny-side-up egg. Learn the step-by-step process to create these crispy and tender pancakes that are a staple in Sri Lankan cuisine. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a satisfying dinner, Hoppers (Appa) offer a unique and delightful addition to your meal repertoire.

Ingredients:

- 2 cups rice flour

- 1 cup all-purpose flour

- 1/2 cup coconut milk

- 1/2 teaspoon sugar

- 1/2 teaspoon salt

- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast

- 1 cup warm water

- 1 tablespoon oil

- 1 egg (optional, for topping)

- Curry (for serving)

Instructions:

Prepare the Yeast Mixture:

  - In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in the warm water. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

Make the Batter:

  - In a large mixing bowl, combine the rice flour and all-purpose flour. Add the salt and mix well.

  - Gradually add the yeast mixture and coconut milk to the flour mixture, stirring continuously until you get a smooth batter.

  - Cover the bowl with a cloth or plastic wrap and let it sit in a warm place for 2-3 hours, or until the batter has fermented and risen.

Cook the Hoppers:

  - Heat a non-stick or traditional hopper pan over medium heat. Brush a thin layer of oil on the pan.

  - Pour a ladleful of batter into the center of the pan. Swirl the pan to spread the batter into a thin layer around the edges, leaving a thicker center.

  - Cover the pan with a lid and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and golden brown. The center should be soft and slightly spongy.

Optional Egg Topping:

  - If desired, crack an egg into the center of the batter while it's cooking. Cover the pan again and cook until the egg is done to your liking.

Serve:

  - Remove the Hopper from the pan and place it on a plate. Serve hot with your favorite curry or enjoy it plain.

Enjoy your homemade Hoppers (Appa) as a delightful and authentic addition to your meal!

Nutritional values

Rice Flour (2 cups)

 - Calories: 1,000

 - Carbohydrates: 220g

 - Protein: 12g

 - Fat: 0g

Benefits: Provides energy from carbohydrates. It is gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten intolerance.

All-Purpose Flour (1 cup)

 - Calories: 455

 - Carbohydrates: 95g

 - Protein: 13g

 - Fat: 1g

Benefits: Adds texture and contributes to the structure of the hoppers. Contains some protein and carbohydrates for energy.

Coconut Milk (1/2 cup)

 - Calories: ~200

 - Fat: 20g

 - Carbohydrates: 3g

Benefits: Adds richness and creaminess, providing healthy fats and essential minerals such as magnesium, potassium, and iron.

Sugar (1/2 teaspoon)

 - Calories: 10

 - Carbohydrates: 2.5g

Benefits: Activates the yeast and adds a slight sweetness to the batter.

Salt (1/2 teaspoon)

 - Calories: 0

 - Sodium: ~1,200mg

Benefits: Enhances flavor but should be used in moderation to control sodium intake.

Active Dry Yeast (1 teaspoon)

 - Calories: ~30

 - Carbohydrates: 2g

Benefits: Helps the batter rise, providing small amounts of B vitamins.

Warm Water (1 cup)

 - Calories: 0

Benefits: Hydrates and helps to mix the ingredients to the right consistency.

Oil (1 tablespoon)

 - Calories: 120

 - Fat: 14g

Benefits: Used for greasing the pan, it adds a slight richness and helps achieve a crispy texture.

Egg (optional, for topping)

 - Calories: 70 per egg

 - Protein: 6g

 - Fat: 5g

Benefits: Adds protein, vitamins, and healthy fats, enhancing flavor and texture.

Curry (for serving)

 - Nutritional values vary depending on the type of curry. Typically provides additional protein, fats, and flavor.

This recipe combines rice flour and all-purpose flour to provide a balance of energy and texture. Coconut milk adds richness and essential nutrients. Yeast helps the batter rise, while sugar and salt enhance flavor. Oil contributes to a crispy texture, and the optional egg adds protein and richness. Curry, served with the hoppers, adds additional flavor and nutrients.