Discover the authentic taste of homemade papad from your kitchen
Papad, also known as papadam or appalam, is a popular Indian snack loved for its crispy texture and flavorful taste. While store-bought papads are convenient, they often contain preservatives and artificial ingredients. Making papad at home allows you to enjoy fresh, natural snacks customized to your taste.
The process is traditional yet simple, prepare a dough from lentil or chickpea flour, roll it into thin discs, and dry them naturally. This guide explains how to make papad from scratch in 5 easy steps so you can savor crispy homemade papads anytime.
Step 1: Prepare the papad dough with simple and natural ingredients
Begin by mixing 1 cup of urad dal (black gram) flour or chickpea flour with salt and your choice of spices such as black pepper, cumin seeds, or asafoetida. Add about 3 to 4 tablespoons of water gradually to form a stiff, smooth dough. The dough should be firm enough to roll out but not too dry to crack. Knead the mixture well for 5 to 7 minutes to ensure the spices and flour blend evenly. Traditional papads rely on natural ingredients, so avoid using baking soda or artificial additives. The dough is the base for your papad’s taste and texture, so take your time achieving the right consistency.
Step 2: Roll the dough into thin, even papad discs
Once the dough is ready, divide it into small portions roughly the size of a golf ball. On a clean, lightly floured surface, roll out each portion as thinly as possible into round discs about 6 to 8 inches in diameter. Use a rolling pin and try to keep the thickness consistent throughout to ensure even drying and cooking later. If the dough sticks, sprinkle a little more flour, but avoid adding too much as it can make the papad tough. Rolling thin is key to achieving the classic crispiness that papad lovers crave. Patience is essential here, as thin papads require a gentle touch.
Step 3: Dry the papad discs naturally in the sun or a warm place
After rolling, place the papad discs on clean trays or plates and let them dry in direct sunlight for several hours, usually 1 to 2 days depending on weather conditions. The sun’s heat gradually removes moisture from the papads, making them ready for storage and cooking. If sunlight is unavailable, you can dry them indoors near a warm window or in a dehydrator if you have one. Ensure the papads are completely dry and crisp before moving on to the next step any retained moisture can cause them to spoil or cook unevenly. Proper drying is crucial for long-lasting homemade papads.
Step 4: Store dried papads properly to maintain freshness and crispiness
Once your papads are fully dried and brittle, store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Proper storage prevents moisture absorption, which can make papads soggy or stale. Homemade papads typically last for several weeks if kept away from humidity and heat. Avoid stacking them tightly, as this may cause breakage. You can also layer the papads with parchment paper between discs to protect them during storage. Freshly dried papads will have a better taste and texture than store-bought options, giving you a perfect snack anytime.
Step 5: Cook papads by roasting or frying just before serving
To enjoy your homemade papads, cook them just before serving. You can roast them over an open flame, on a hot tawa (griddle), or fry them in hot oil until crisp and golden brown. Roasting is healthier and preserves the natural flavors, while frying adds a delicious crunch. Keep an eye on the papads while cooking, as they cook very quickly and can burn easily. Serve your crispy papads as a snack with chutneys or alongside your meals for an authentic Indian experience. Fresh homemade papads taste noticeably better than store-bought, with a richer aroma and texture.
Homemade papad is a natural, tasty snack anyone can make
Making papad at home is a rewarding and traditional way to enjoy this beloved Indian snack without preservatives or artificial ingredients. Though it requires time for drying, the preparation process is simple and uses basic kitchen ingredients. Once you master the dough and rolling technique, you can experiment with different spices and lentil flours to create unique flavors. Freshly made papads are crisp, flavorful, and perfect for festive occasions or everyday snacking. Give this homemade papad recipe a try and bring authentic taste and freshness to your kitchen.