As the holiday season lights up our kitchens, we’re thrilled to explore Christmas Kerala recipes, where Kerala’s spicy heritage meets festive joy. This coastal Indian state boasts a vibrant Christian community that infuses local flavors like coconut and cardamom into holiday treats, creating dishes full of warmth and tradition.
We love how these recipes blend sweet and savory elements, perfect for gatherings that bring families together. From plum cakes to appams, they’re a delicious nod to Kerala’s multicultural roots, making every bite a celebration of home and heritage.
Ingredients
In our exploration of Christmas Kerala recipes, we focus on the vibrant flavors that define festive traditions, such as the aromatic plum cake and light, airy appams. These dishes embody Kerala’s multicultural heritage, blending spices like cardamom and coconut for a truly heartwarming holiday experience. Below, we list the ingredients for two beloved recipes, ordered as they are typically used in preparation. This ensures accuracy and ease when you gather your ingredients for these celebrations.
Kerala Christmas Plum Cake Ingredients
For this rich, spiced cake that captures the essence of Kerala’s Christmas spirit, we recommend sourcing high-quality, fresh ingredients to enhance the flavors of dried fruits and warm spices.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Sifted for even texture, as the base for the batter.
- 1 cup unsalted butter: Softened to room temperature, to cream with sugar.
- 1 cup brown sugar: Packed, for a deep caramelized sweetness.
- 4 large eggs: At room temperature, beaten lightly before adding.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Fresh, to help the cake rise.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: For additional lift in the batter.
- 1 teaspoon ground cardamom: Freshly ground if possible, for its signature Kerala aroma.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: To add warmth and depth.
- 1 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, candied peel): Chopped finely, soaked in rum overnight for enhanced flavor.
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (almonds, cashews): Toasted lightly, for added crunch.
- 1/2 cup fresh grated coconut: For a moist, tropical twist unique to Kerala.
- 1/4 cup rum or brandy: For soaking fruits, adding a festive boozy note.
Appam Ingredients
Appams are soft, fermented pancakes that pair perfectly with stews during Christmas feasts in Kerala. We prioritize simple, accessible ingredients while noting prep details for the best results.
- 2 cups raw rice: Soaked for 4-6 hours, then drained, as the primary base.
- 1/2 cup cooked rice: For added fermentation and texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast: Dissolved in warm water, to aid rising.
- 1 cup coconut milk: Freshly extracted or canned, for a creamy consistency.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: To feed the yeast and enhance natural sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Added after fermentation, for balanced flavor.
- Water: As needed, to adjust batter consistency for pouring.
These ingredient lists are tailored for authenticity and ease, drawing from our expertise in Kerala’s festive cuisine. By following this order, you’ll streamline your preparation and create dishes that truly shine during the holidays.
Instructions
We guide you through the step-by-step process for creating authentic Christmas Kerala recipes like our rich plum cake and fluffy appams, ensuring you capture the festive aromas and textures that define holiday celebrations in Kerala.
Preparation
Before we dive into cooking, let’s prepare the ingredients for our plum cake and appams to ensure everything is ready for seamless execution.
For the plum cake, we start by soaking 1 cup of mixed dried fruits (such as raisins and cherries) in ½ cup of rum or grape juice for at least 24 hours to infuse deep flavor. Next, we sift 2 cups of all-purpose flour with 1 teaspoon of baking powder and ½ teaspoon of ground cardamom, setting aside the mixture for later. Cream 1 cup of unsalted butter with 1 cup of brown sugar until the mixture turns light and airy, then beat in 4 large eggs one at a time for a smooth batter base that promises a moist, aromatic crumb.
For the appams, we begin by rinsing 2 cups of raw rice and soaking it in water for 4 to 6 hours to achieve the perfect texture. After draining, we grind the soaked rice with 1 cup of cooked rice and 1 cup of coconut milk into a fine batter, adding 1 teaspoon of yeast dissolved in warm water to help it ferment. Let the batter rest in a warm spot for 8 hours until it doubles in size, releasing a subtle, tangy aroma that signals it’s ready for cooking.
Cooking
Now that our ingredients are prepped, we move on to cooking our plum cake and appams, focusing on precise techniques to develop their signature tastes and consistencies.
For the plum cake, we fold the soaked fruits and sifted flour mixture into the creamed butter and egg base, ensuring even distribution for a rich, fruity bite. Pour the batter into a greased 9-inch cake tin and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 50 to 60 minutes, checking doneness by inserting a toothpick that comes out clean—the warm, spicy scent will fill your kitchen as the cake rises to golden perfection.
For the appams, we heat a traditional appam pan or skillet over medium heat and ladle in ¼ cup of fermented batter, swirling the pan to create lacy edges that crisp up beautifully. Cover and cook each appam for 2 to 3 minutes until the center puffs up soft and the edges turn lightly golden, flipping if needed for even cooking—the result is a fluffy interior with a delightful contrast of textures.
Assembling and Serving
With cooking complete, we assemble and serve our plum cake and appams to highlight their vibrant flavors and make them ready for your Christmas feast.
For the plum cake, we remove it from the oven and let it cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack—this allows the spiced aroma to settle. Once cooled, we optionally brush the top with a simple glaze of 2 tablespoons of rum mixed with powdered sugar for added shine, then slice into generous portions to serve alongside tea or coffee, evoking the warmth of Kerala holiday gatherings.
For the appams, we stack them fresh on a platter and pair with 1 cup of coconut milk or a side of vegetable stew, garnishing with fresh curry leaves for a burst of herbal fragrance. Serve immediately to maintain their soft, airy quality, encouraging everyone to enjoy the comforting, multicultural essence of Christmas in Kerala.
Required Tools and Equipment
To bring our Christmas Kerala recipes for plum cake and appams to life, we need the right tools and equipment. These essentials ensure precision and ease during preparation, building seamlessly on the ingredients and steps we’ve already covered. Let’s break it down by recipe for clarity and efficiency.
For Plum Cake
For crafting the rich, aromatic plum cake that captures Kerala’s festive essence, gather these key tools. We recommend high-quality items to achieve that perfect golden rise and texture.
- Oven: A standard oven preheated to 350°F (177°C) for even baking; essential for transforming batter into a moist, flavorful cake.
- Mixing bowls: At least two large stainless-steel or glass bowls for combining ingredients like flour and butter without contamination.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate sets for precise measurements of items such as brown sugar and spices, ensuring consistent results every time.
- Whisk or electric mixer: A sturdy whisk or handheld mixer to blend batter smoothly, incorporating air for a lighter crumb.
- Baking tin: A 9-inch round or loaf tin, greased and lined with parchment paper, to hold the batter as it bakes to perfection.
- Spatula: A silicone spatula for folding in dried fruits soaked in rum, maintaining their distribution without overmixing.
- Sieving tool: A fine-mesh sieve to aerate flour and remove lumps, guaranteeing a fluffier texture in your holiday treat.
For Appams
When preparing soft, fluffy appams—a staple of Kerala’s Christmas celebrations—we focus on tools that support fermentation and cooking. These help achieve the signature lacy edges and tender center.
- Appam pan (Appachatti): A traditional cast-iron or non-stick pan with a curved base; heat it over medium flame for that iconic shape and crisp finish.
- Blender or grinder: A high-powered blender to grind raw rice and cooked rice into a smooth batter, ensuring the right consistency for fermentation.
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl with a lid for fermenting the batter with coconut milk, allowing it to rise naturally in a warm spot.
- Ladle: A heat-resistant ladle for pouring batter into the pan, controlling portions for evenly sized appams.
- Stove: A gas or electric stove with adjustable heat settings to cook appams gently, preventing burning while developing their fluffy texture.
- Spoon or spatula: A wooden spoon for stirring the batter post-fermentation, or a spatula for flipping appams midway for even cooking.
By having these tools ready, we make the process of creating these festive Kerala dishes straightforward and enjoyable, enhancing the holiday spirit in our kitchens.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To enhance your holiday preparations for our festive Kerala Christmas recipes like the plum cake and appams, we recommend these practical make-ahead strategies and storage methods. This approach allows us to maximize flavor development while minimizing last-minute efforts, ensuring your dishes remain fresh and delicious for gatherings.
Make-Ahead Tips
Planning ahead is key to enjoying the rich flavors of Kerala’s holiday treats without the rush. Here’s how we can prepare components in advance:
- For Plum Cake:
We can soak the dried fruits in rum or brandy up to a week ahead to infuse deeper flavors. Simply combine the fruits with the alcohol in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. Additionally, bake the entire cake 1-2 days before serving as it matures beautifully, allowing spices like cardamom to meld. Prepare the batter the night before by mixing dry ingredients and setting them aside covered at room temperature.
- For Appams:
Ferment the batter up to 24 hours in advance for optimal texture. After blending the raw rice, cooked rice, and coconut milk, let it ferment in a covered bowl at room temperature. If preparing further ahead, store the fermented batter in the refrigerator for up to 12 hours, then bring it back to room temperature before cooking to maintain that signature fluffy consistency.
Storage Tips
Proper storage preserves the vibrant tastes and textures of these Kerala favorites, ensuring they stay fresh for your Christmas celebrations.
- For Plum Cake:
Once cooled, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze slices individually in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to retain moisture and aroma.
- For Appams:
Store cooked appams in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, but they taste best when reheated. For extended freshness, refrigerate them in a sealed bag for up to 3 days and reheat in a pan or microwave. If freezing, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to freezer bags for up to 1 month; simply thaw and warm for that soft, spongy feel.
| Dish | Room Temperature Storage | Refrigeration Storage | Freezer Storage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plum Cake | Up to 1 week | Up to 2 weeks | Up to 3 months |
| Appams | Up to 2 days | Up to 3 days | Up to 1 month |
Conclusion
As we’ve delved into the heart of Christmas in Kerala, we’re reminded of how these recipes weave together tradition and joy. They bring us closer to our roots, turning simple ingredients into moments that warm our homes and hearts.
Let’s embrace this festive spirit by trying these dishes ourselves—it’s an easy way to create lasting memories and add a touch of Kerala’s magic to our holidays.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of Christmas in Kerala?
Christmas in Kerala, India, celebrates a vibrant festive spirit with a focus on family and culinary traditions. It highlights the region’s multicultural roots, blending local flavors like coconut and cardamom into dishes that bring people together, fostering warmth and community during the holiday season.
What are some traditional Christmas recipes from Kerala?
Popular recipes include plum cake and appams. Plum cake features rich dried fruits soaked in rum, while appams are soft, fluffy rice pancakes made with coconut milk. These treats reflect Kerala’s unique blend of spices and ingredients, perfect for holiday gatherings and emphasizing the joy of home-cooked meals.
How do you make plum cake for Christmas?
To make plum cake, soak dried fruits in rum for a week, then mix with flour, butter, sugar, and spices. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 1-2 hours until golden. Let it cool and mature for flavors to develop, making it a festive favorite that serves 8-10 people easily.
What ingredients are needed for appams?
Key ingredients for appams include raw rice, cooked rice, coconut milk, yeast, and a pinch of salt. Blend into a batter, ferment for 8-12 hours, and cook in an appam pan for soft, lacy edges. This simple recipe yields about 10-12 appams, ideal for a quick holiday breakfast or side.
What tools are required to prepare these recipes?
For plum cake, you’ll need a mixing bowl, whisk, baking tin, oven, and measuring cups. For appams, use a blender, fermentation bowl, appam pan, and ladle. Having these tools ensures precise preparation, making the process straightforward and enjoyable for your Kerala Christmas cooking.
How can I store plum cake and appams?
Store plum cake at room temperature for up to a week, refrigerate for two weeks, or freeze for three months. For appams, keep at room temperature for two days, refrigerate for three days, or freeze for one month. Always use airtight containers to maintain freshness and flavors for your holiday treats.
Can I prepare these recipes in advance?
Yes, soak dried fruits for plum cake up to a week ahead and bake 1-2 days before serving. For appams, ferment the batter 24 hours in advance. These make-ahead strategies help manage holiday preparations, ensuring your dishes are ready and delicious for gatherings without last-minute stress.