Material and Build: Look for machines made from stainless steel or high-quality food-grade plastic for durability and ease of cleaning.
Design: Most machines have a cylindrical chamber where you place the rice flour mixture. They come with various press attachments that allow you to form the idiyappam into the desired thin, noodle-like strands.
Ease of Use: The machine should be easy to assemble and disassemble, with a straightforward mechanism for pressing the dough.
Capacity: Depending on your needs, choose a machine with a suitable capacity. Some are designed for small home use, while others are larger for commercial purposes.
Accessories: Check if the machine comes with multiple pressing discs to create different patterns or thicknesses of idiyappam.
Cleaning: Opt for machines that are easy to clean, ideally with parts that can be detached and washed separately.
Manual vs. Electric: Manual machines require physical effort to press the dough, while electric ones automate the process, making them more convenient but often at a higher price point.
Prepare the Dough: Mix rice flour with water (and a pinch of salt) to create a smooth, pliable dough.
Assemble the Machine: Attach the appropriate pressing disc to the machine, then load the dough into the chamber.
Press the Dough: Use the machine to press the dough into the idiyappam maker, which forms the thin strands.
Steam the Idiyappam: Place the pressed dough onto idli plates or a steamer tray and steam for about 10-15 minutes.
Serve: Once steamed, the idiyappam is ready to be served with coconut milk, curry, or other accompaniments.