Appam Ishtu 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.
Wash the rice thoroughly and soak in plenty of water for at least 4 hours at room temperature.
Drain the rice, then grind it together with grated coconut and cooked rice, gradually adding water to form a smooth, thick batter.
Dissolve the yeast and sugar in 2 tbsp of warm water. Let stand for 10 minutes until foamy, then stir into the batter.
Cover the batter and let ferment in a warm place for 6–8 hours, or until doubled, airy, and bubbly on top.
Add salt to the fermented batter. Heat an appam pan (or non-stick skillet) over medium heat, pour a ladle of batter, swirl to coat edges, cover and cook for 2–3 minutes until the edges are golden and crisp, and the center is soft and set. Do not flip. Serve hot.