Chicken Stew and Appam Recipe

Why is Chicken Stew and Appam is Popular in India

Chicken stew and appam are popular dishes in India, particularly in the southern state of Kerala. There are several reasons why these dishes have gained popularity:

Regional Cuisine: Kerala is known for its unique and diverse cuisine, which includes a wide range of flavors and ingredients. Chicken stew and appam are iconic dishes that represent the state's culinary traditions.

Flavor Profile: Chicken stew is a mild and creamy dish made with tender pieces of chicken cooked in coconut milk and flavored with spices like cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon. It has a delicate and comforting flavor that appeals to many palates.

Complementary Pairing: Appam is a soft and fluffy rice pancake with a slightly crispy edge. It is an ideal accompaniment to chicken stew because the neutral flavor of appam complements the rich and creamy chicken stew, creating a harmonious balance of textures and tastes.

Coconut Influence: Kerala cuisine often uses coconut in various forms, such as coconut milk, grated coconut, and coconut oil. Chicken stew also relies on coconut milk, which imparts a distinct creamy texture and coconut flavor to the dish.

Versatility: Chicken stew and appam can be enjoyed as a hearty breakfast, a comforting lunch, or a wholesome dinner. Their versatility makes them suitable for various occasions and preferences.

Health Benefits: Both chicken stew and appam are considered relatively healthy options. Chicken provides a good source of protein, while appam is made from fermented rice batter, which can aid in digestion.

Cultural Significance: These dishes are an integral part of Kerala's cultural and culinary heritage. They are often served at weddings, festivals, and special occasions, adding to their popularity.

Tourism: Kerala is a popular tourist destination, and its cuisine, including chicken stew and appam, attracts visitors from around the world. Many tourists try these dishes to experience the authentic flavors of the region.

Word of Mouth: Positive word-of-mouth recommendations from locals and tourists have contributed to the popularity of chicken stew and appam. When people have a memorable dining experience, they often share it with others, leading to increased popularity.

In summary, the popularity of chicken stew and appam in India, especially in Kerala, can be attributed to their unique flavors, cultural significance, and versatility, as well as the influence of coconut in Kerala cuisine and positive recommendations from those who have enjoyed these dishes.

Ingredients for Chicken Stew:

For the Chicken Stew:

500g boneless chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

1 large onion, thinly sliced

2-3 green chilies, slit

1-inch piece of ginger, minced

4-5 cloves garlic, minced

1-2 sprigs of curry leaves

1-2 potatoes, peeled and cubed (optional)

2 carrots, peeled and sliced (optional)

1 cup thin coconut milk

1 cup thick coconut milk

Salt to taste

For the Spice Paste:

1/2 cup grated coconut

1 teaspoon fennel seeds

1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns

2-3 cloves

2-3 green cardamom pods

1-inch piece of cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

Ingredients for Appam:

1 cup raw rice

1/4 cup cooked rice

1/4 cup grated coconut

1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast

1 teaspoon sugar

A pinch of salt

Water

Instructions:

For Chicken Stew:

Start by preparing the spice paste. In a blender, combine all the ingredients for the spice paste and blend until you get a smooth paste. Set it aside.

Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced onions, green chilies, ginger, garlic, and curry leaves. Sauté until the onions become translucent.

Add the chicken pieces and sauté for a few minutes until they turn white.

Add the potatoes and carrots (if using) and continue to sauté for a few more minutes.

Now, add the spice paste and sauté for a couple of minutes until the raw smell disappears.

Pour in thin coconut milk and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover and simmer till chook and greens are tender.

Once the chicken and vegetables are cooked, add the thick coconut milk and season with salt. Simmer for a few more minutes until everything is well combined and the stew has thickened slightly.

Remove from warmth and garnish with a few clean curry leaves.

For Appam:

Wash the raw rice and soak it in water for 4-6 hours or overnight.

Dissolve the yeast and sugar in a small bowl with a little warm water. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes frothy.

Drain the soaked rice and add it to a blender along with the cooked rice, grated coconut, yeast mixture, and a pinch of salt. Mix until a smooth dough forms.

Pour the batter into a large bowl, cover it, and let it ferment for 6-8 hours or overnight. The batter should rise and become slightly bubbly.

Heat an appam pan (a special pan with a shallow center and raised edges) or a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Grease it lightly with oil.

Pour a ladleful of appam batter into the center of the pan and swirl it around to coat the edges. Cover the pan and cook for a few minutes until the appam is set and the edges turn crispy while the center remains soft and slightly spongy.

Remove the appam from the pan and serve it with the chicken stew.

Enjoy your delicious homemade chicken stew and appam!

Chicken Stew and Appam Benefits

Chicken Stew Benefits:

It provides essential amino acids necessary for various bodily functions.

Vitamins and Minerals: Chicken contains various vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins (such as B6, niacin, and riboflavin), which play a role in metabolism and energy production. It also contains minerals like phosphorus, which is important for bone health, and selenium, which acts as an antioxidant.

Low in Calories: Chicken stew is often prepared with minimal added fats, making it a relatively low-calorie option compared to some other meat-based dishes.

Hydration: Chicken stew typically includes a broth or coconut milk base, which can help with hydration, especially in hot and humid climates.

Flavorful: Chicken stew is known for its delicious and mild flavor. It's often seasoned with spices and herbs that not only enhance taste but may also have potential health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Appam Benefits:

Low in Fat: Appam is a type of South Indian pancake made from fermented rice batter. It is typically cooked with minimal oil or ghee, making it a low-fat option compared to many other Indian bread and rice dishes.

Gluten-Free: Appam is naturally gluten-free, which makes it suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

Fermented: The fermentation process used to make an appam batter can increase its nutritional value. Fermented foods can be easier to digest and may have probiotic properties that support gut health.

Good Source of Carbohydrates: Appam is a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy for daily activities.

Versatile: Appam can be served with a variety of accompaniments, such as chicken stew, vegetable curry, or coconut chutney, which can add additional nutrients and flavors to the meal.

Rich in Fiber: Depending on the type of rice used, appam can be a good source of dietary fiber, which is important for digestive health.

It's worth noting that the specific nutritional content of chicken stew and appam can vary based on the recipe and preparation methods. While they offer several health benefits, it's important to consume them as part of a balanced diet to ensure you get a wide range of nutrients. Additionally, portion control is important to avoid excessive calorie intake.