Idiyappam is a lacy, bowl-shaped South Indian bread with crispy edges and a soft, spongy center. This naturally fermented vegetarian bread is light, healthy, and a family breakfast favorite in Kerala.
Boil 1.25 cups water in a saucepan and add 0.5 tsp salt to dissolve.
Gradually pour the hot salted water into 2 cups rice flour in a mixing bowl, stirring to create a soft dough; add 1 tsp oil and knead until smooth.
Lightly grease idiyappam press and fill with dough, pressing thin noodles directly onto greased steaming plates in a spiral pattern.
Sprinkle 0.5 cup grated coconut over the pressed noodles for extra texture and flavor.
Steam the idiyappam plates for 8–10 minutes over medium heat until noodles become fluffy and edges crisp; allow to cool for 2–3 minutes before serving.