HANDMADE BRONZE UNNIYAPPAKARA | UNNIYAPPAM MAKER | KUZHI PANIYARAM WITH HANDLES

iscover the Art of Traditional South Indian Cooking with Handmade Bronze Unniyappam Maker from Alackal Bell Metals, Mannar, Kerala

Introduction

In the heart of South Indian culinary traditions lies a simple yet profound delicacy — Unniyappam or Kuzhi Paniyaram. This beloved snack, known for its golden crisp exterior and soft, sweet interior, has become a staple during auspicious occasions, temple offerings, and family gatherings. And the secret behind making the perfect Unniyappam is not just the recipe but also the cookware.

Alackal Bell Metals, a renowned manufacturer of traditional brass and bronze cookware based in Mannar, Kerala, brings you the handmade bronze Unniyappam Maker with 12-cavity and 15-cavity variations. These pans are specifically designed for creating Unniyappam and Kuzhi Paniyaram, two snacks deeply rooted in South Indian culture, especially during Naivedyam offerings in temples.

In this blog, we will explore the artistry of this cookware, its cultural significance, and how it helps in creating these delicious snacks while preserving the authenticity and health benefits of using bronze cookware.

What is Unniyappam?

Unniyappam is a popular snack in Kerala, typically prepared using a combination of rice flour, jaggery, ripe bananas, and coconut. The batter is poured into a bronze Unniyappam maker with small cavities, then fried to perfection. This snack is often offered as Naivedyam in temples and is loved by people across South India for its sweet taste and crispy texture.

Similarly, in Tamil Nadu, Kuzhi Paniyaram is made using a similar pan, but the batter can be either sweet or savory, depending on regional preferences.

Traditional Cookware – The Unniyappam Maker

The bronze Unniyappam Maker or Kuzhi Paniyaram Pan from Alackal Bell Metals, Mannar is crafted by skilled artisans using ancient metal casting techniques. Each pan features multiple cavities (12 or 15), allowing home cooks and professionals to prepare a large batch of Unniyappams in one go. The use of bronze in cooking is not just a nod to tradition, but also offers numerous health benefits.

Why Choose a Bronze Unniyappam Maker?

• Even Heat Distribution: Bronze cookware heats evenly, ensuring that each Unniyappam is perfectly cooked with a crisp outer layer and a soft, fluffy interior.
• Health Benefits: Cooking in bronze is known to enhance the nutritional quality of food. It is believed to improve immunity and digestion.
• Durability: Unlike non-stick pans that lose their coating over time, bronze pans last for generations. With proper care, they can become family heirlooms.
• Eco-Friendly: Bronze cookware is made from natural materials and is environmentally friendly compared to synthetic non-stick cookware.

Cultural Significance of Unniyappam in South India

In Kerala, Unniyappam is not just a snack but a symbol of spirituality and tradition. It is often offered as Naivedyam in temples during special poojas and festivals. Temples like Sabarimala and Guruvayur are famous for their offerings of Unniyappam to the deities. The preparation of these offerings in traditional bronze cookware is believed to maintain the purity of the food.

Unniyappam is also a key part of Onam Sadhya, the grand vegetarian feast served during the Onam festival in Kerala. The use of bronze Unniyappam makers in these festivals adds a sense of tradition and authenticity to the food preparation.

In Tamil Nadu, Kuzhi Paniyaram is a common breakfast or snack dish made from rice and lentils, either sweet or savory. Like Unniyappam, it holds a significant place in both religious offerings and daily cuisine.

How to Use the Handmade Bronze Unniyappam Maker

1. Season the Pan: Before using a new bronze pan, it’s important to season it. This process helps to enhance the non-stick properties of the metal and makes cooking easier. Start by heating some oil in the pan and wiping it down after a few minutes.

2. Prepare the Batter: Whether you’re making the sweet Unniyappam or the savory Kuzhi Paniyaram, start by preparing the batter. Traditionally, Unniyappam batter includes rice flour, mashed bananas, jaggery, and coconut.

3. Heat the Pan: Place the bronze pan on a stove and allow it to heat evenly. Add a little oil or ghee into each cavity.

4. Cook the Snacks: Pour the batter into each cavity of the pan. Allow it to cook until golden brown on the bottom, then carefully flip to cook the other side.

5. Serve: Once cooked, remove the Unniyappams or Paniyarams from the pan and serve them hot with tea or as a temple offering.

The Making of Bronze Cookware at Alackal Bell Metals, Mannar

Alackal Bell Metals, located in Mannar, Kerala, is a hub of traditional metal artisanship. The town is famous for producing brass and bronze cookware that has been used in South Indian households for centuries. The process of making these pans is both time-consuming and labor-intensive but ensures high-quality, long-lasting cookware.

Each bronze Unniyappam maker is handcrafted using the lost-wax casting method, which ensures precision and durability. Skilled artisans pour molten bronze into intricate molds, creating pans that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Why Bronze Cookware is Making a Comeback

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in traditional cookware made from metals like bronze, brass, and copper. Unlike modern non-stick pans, which are often coated with chemicals that can wear off over time, bronze pans are natural, safe, and add an element of nostalgia to cooking.

Many chefs and home cooks are returning to bronze cookware because of its ability to enhance the flavor of food while promoting even cooking. Additionally, its health benefits, eco-friendliness, and long-lasting nature make it a wise investment.

Health Benefits of Using Bronze Cookware

1. Boosts Immunity: Cooking with bronze is believed to have positive effects on your immune system. It’s a practice rooted in Ayurveda, where metals like bronze and copper are used to balance the body's doshas.

2. Preserves Nutrients: The even heating of bronze cookware ensures that food retains its natural nutrients, vitamins, and minerals.

3. Improves Digestion: Some studies suggest that cooking in bronze or other metals like brass and copper improves digestion and reduces acidity.

4. Non-Toxic: Unlike Teflon or non-stick cookware, which can release harmful chemicals when heated, bronze cookware is non-toxic and free from synthetic materials.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Unniyappam and Kuzhi Paniyaram

Cooking traditional snacks like Unniyappam or Kuzhi Paniyaram requires precision and patience. Here are some tips to achieve the best results using your bronze Unniyappam maker:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: The key to making flavorful Unniyappams is using fresh ingredients like ripe bananas, grated coconut, and jaggery.
• Maintain the Right Heat: Cooking at medium heat ensures that the Unniyappams are cooked evenly, without burning the outside while keeping the inside uncooked.
• Flip at the Right Time: Ensure the base of each Unniyappam is golden brown before flipping it over to avoid sticking.

Maintenance and Care of Bronze Unniyappam Maker

While bronze cookware is incredibly durable, it does require some maintenance to keep it in good condition. Here are some tips:

• Season Regularly: Regularly seasoning your pan will help maintain its non-stick quality and improve cooking performance.
• Avoid Harsh Scrubbing: When cleaning the pan, avoid using abrasive sponges that can scratch the surface. Instead, use warm water and a soft cloth.
• Dry Thoroughly: After washing, make sure to dry the pan completely to prevent any tarnishing or oxidation.

Conclusion

The handmade bronze Unniyappam Maker from Alackal Bell Metals is more than just a cooking tool; it’s a piece of cultural heritage. With its 12-cavity and 15-cavity options, this pan allows you to create delicious traditional snacks while connecting to the roots of South Indian culinary traditions.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice looking to explore traditional South Indian cuisine, investing in a high-quality bronze Unniyappam maker is the first step towards mastering the art of making Unniyappam and Kuzhi Paniyaram.

With its durability, health benefits, and the authentic touch it brings to your kitchen, this pan is a must-have for anyone passionate about cooking and preserving South Indian culinary traditions.