Rava Appalu Recipe

Rava Appalu is a traditional South Indian sweet, particularly popular in Andhra Pradesh, made with semolina (rava), sugar, and coconut. These sweet discs are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

Here’s a simple recipe to make Rava Appalu:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup semolina (rava)
• ½ cup grated fresh coconut
• ¾ cup sugar (adjust as per taste)
• ½ teaspoon cardamom powder
• 1 tablespoon ghee
• Water as needed
• Oil for deep frying

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Toast the Semolina:
   • Heat a pan on medium heat and dry roast the semolina (rava) for 3-4 minutes until it turns slightly golden and aromatic. Be careful not to over-roast or burn it. Set it aside to cool.
2. Make the Dough:
   • In a bowl, combine the roasted rava, grated coconut, sugar, and cardamom powder.
   • Gradually add water, little by little, and mix until it forms a smooth, soft dough that can be shaped. Add 1 tablespoon of ghee while kneading for a richer texture.
   • Let the dough rest for about 10-15 minutes so the rava absorbs the water and softens.

Step 2: Shape the Appalu

1. Make Small Discs:
   • Divide the dough into small portions and roll them into smooth balls.
   • Flatten each ball into a small disc using your palms. You can keep them a little thick or thin, depending on your preference, but try to keep them uniform in size.

Step 3: Fry the Appalu

1. Heat Oil:
   • Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
2. Fry the Appalu:
   • Once the oil is hot, gently slide the flattened rava discs into the oil. Fry them in batches on medium heat.
   • Fry until they turn golden brown and crispy on both sides, flipping occasionally for even cooking.
   • Remove them with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Step 4: Serve

• Serve the Rava Appalu warm or at room temperature as a sweet snack.

Tips:

• Be sure not to add too much water to the dough; it should be soft but not too sticky.
• Fry the appalu on medium heat to ensure they cook evenly and don’t burn.
• You can garnish with chopped nuts like cashews or almonds for added crunch and flavor.