10 Foolproof Tips For Making Kerala-Style Sweet Banana Appam At Home

Sachin Sharma

Jan 8, 2026

Choose Fully Ripe Nendran Bananas

Always use well-ripened nendran bananas for authentic taste and natural sweetness. Overripe bananas mash easily and enhance the aroma. Avoid unripe bananas as they affect both flavor and texture.

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Use Fine Rice Flour or Soaked Rice Batter

Finely ground rice flour gives the appam a smooth batter and crisp texture. If using soaked rice, grind it to a slightly coarse paste. Lumps in batter can ruin the final result.

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Balance Sweetness Naturally

Rely mainly on banana sweetness and add jaggery only if needed. Melt and strain jaggery to remove impurities. Too much sugar can cause uneven frying and burning.

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Add Coconut Pieces for Authentic Flavor

Small chopped coconut bits add crunch and traditional Kerala taste. Lightly sautéing them enhances flavor. Do not add large pieces as they can overpower the appam.

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Enhance Taste With Mild Spices

A pinch of cumin seeds or crushed cardamom elevates the aroma. These spices balance sweetness beautifully. Avoid using strong spice blends.

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Maintain the Right Batter Consistency

The batter should be thick yet pourable, similar to dosa batter. If too thick, appams turn hard; if too thin, they absorb excess oil. Adjust with water little by little.

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Rest the Batter Briefly

Allow the batter to rest for 10 to 15 minutes before frying. This helps flavors blend and improves texture. Do not ferment the batter.

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Fry in Medium-Hot Coconut Oil

Use coconut oil for authentic flavor and aroma. Heat oil on medium flame to ensure even cooking. Very hot oil browns the outside too quickly.

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Shape Appams Carefully

Use a spoon or hand to gently drop batter into oil. Avoid overcrowding the pan. Proper spacing helps appams cook evenly and puff nicely.

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Fry Until Golden and Drain Well

Turn appams occasionally for even browning. Once golden and crisp, remove and drain on absorbent paper. Serve hot for best taste and texture.

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Thanks For Reading!

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