FOUR BROTHERS ACHAPPAM MAKER

Four Brothers Achappam Maker is the mould that turns rice-flour batter into the lacy, flower-shaped achappam that Kerala families make every Christmas. What It Is: A metal achappam mould fixed to a long handle, so the mould can be dipped in hot oil, then into batter, and back into the oil until the crisp achappam releases itself. Four Brothers Build: Four Brothers is a name familiar in Kerala kitchen shops for stainless steel cookware, and this mould is made to take repeated heating in hot oil season after season. Traditional Kerala Snack: Achappam, also called rose cookies, is made from rice flour, egg, coconut milk and sugar, and is a fixture of Christmas, Easter and wedding snack trays in Thrissur and across central Kerala. How To Use: Heat the mould in the oil first, dip it three-quarters into the batter so the achappam slides off easily, and fry until golden; the first one or two are for practice. Care Tip: Wipe the mould clean while warm, dry it thoroughly and store it in a dry cupboard so it is ready for the next festive batch.