How Do You Spell POPPADOM?

Pronunciation: [pˈɒpadəm] (IPA)

Poppadom, also known as papadum, is a thin, crisp Indian food that's popular as a side dish, snack or accompaniment to curries. The word is pronounced /pɒpədʌm/ in IPA phonetic transcription, with the emphasis on the first syllable. The spelling of this word comes from the Hindi word "pāpāṛ," which means a thin, crisp wafer. Versions of the snack can be found across South Asia, where they are often made from lentil, chickpea or rice flour, and seasoned with a range of spices.

POPPADOM Meaning and Definition

1. A poppadom refers to a thin, crisp, and disc-shaped Indian food item made from a dough primarily composed of lentils, chickpeas, or rice flour. It is commonly consumed as an accompaniment or snack in Indian cuisine. The dough for poppadoms is seasoned with various spices such as cumin, black pepper, chili, and salt, which contribute to its distinct flavor and aroma.

   The preparation process of poppadoms involves rolling the seasoned dough into thin, circular shapes before being fried or roasted. Upon cooking, the dough expands and transforms into a delicate, crispy, and wafer-thin texture that is revered for its crunchy bite. The poppadom's surface can be smooth or textured, with occasional air bubbles that contribute to its light and airy consistency. The versatile nature of poppadoms enables them to be enjoyed in various ways, ranging from being devoured plain, to being topped with chutneys, pickles, or condiments for added flavor.

   Poppadoms are also often served alongside Indian meals as a palate cleanser and digestive aid due to their dry and crisp nature. They provide a contrasting element to the typically saucy and flavorful main dishes, adding a light and refreshing touch to the culinary experience. Poppadoms have gained international popularity and are readily available in Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and international markets, offering an authentic taste of Indian cuisine.

Common Misspellings for POPPADOM

• Poppadam
• Poliadon

Etymology of POPPADOM

The word "poppadom" has its etymology rooted in the Tamil language. It comes from the Tamil word "pappadam", which is a combination of "pappa", meaning "flattened" or "beaten", and "adam", meaning "to cool" or "to dry". Tamil is an ancient Dravidian language spoken primarily in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu and neighboring regions. Poppadoms are thin, crisp, disc-shaped Indian snacks made from various grains or lentil flours, which are typically dried or fried to achieve their texture. The word "poppadom" was brought to the English language through colonial influence and became the commonly accepted term for this popular Indian dish.

Plural form of POPPADOM is POPPADOMS