Papad, a thin, crispy disc made from lentil flour or chickpea flour, is a staple food in many Indian households. It is a versatile snack that can be enjoyed plain, fried, or roasted, and it is often served with meals as a side dish.
The making of papad is a long and laborious process, and it is a skill that has been passed down from generation to generation. Papad makers, or papadwalas, are the custodians of this tradition, and they play an important role in preserving this culinary heritage.
The Process of Papad Making
The process of making papad begins with the selection of the lentils or chickpeas. The lentils or chickpeas are then soaked in water overnight, after which they are ground into a fine flour. The flour is then mixed with water and spices, such as salt, turmeric, and cumin, to form a dough.
The dough is then divided into small balls, which are rolled out into thin sheets. The sheets are then dried in the sun for several days, until they become crispy. Once the papads are dry, they are stored in airtight containers until they are ready to be used.
The Role of Papad Makers
Papad makers are the heart and soul of the papad industry. They are the ones who have the skills and knowledge to make high-quality papads. They are also the ones who are responsible for passing down this tradition to the next generation.
Papad making is a skilled trade, and it takes years of experience to master the art of making perfect papads. Papad makers must be able to select the right lentils or chickpeas, grind them into a fine flour, mix the dough properly, and roll out the sheets evenly. They must also be able to judge the right time to take the papads out of the sun, so that they are crispy but not brittle.
Preserving a Culinary Tradition
Papad making is a dying tradition, as more and more people are turning to store-bought papads. However, there are still a number of papad makers who are committed to preserving this culinary heritage. They are working hard to pass down their skills to the next generation, and they are also exploring new ways to market their products.
Myma… Ghar jaisa nahi, Ghar ka khana!
