Pesaha appam

Pesaha Appam is a unique type of unleavened bread that is traditionally prepared by the Saint Thomas Christians of Kerala, India during the Passover festival. This bread, also known as Inri Appam or Kurisappam, holds a significant place in the Maundy Thursday celebrations of these communities.

History

The tradition of Pesaha Appam dates back to the time when the Saint Thomas Christians, also known as the Syrian Christians, were influenced by the Jewish customs. The word Pesaha is derived from the Aramaic word Pasha, which means Passover. The bread is named after the Passover meal that Jesus Christ had with his disciples.

Preparation

Pesaha Appam is made from rice flour, coconut milk, and jaggery. The ingredients are mixed together to form a batter, which is then poured into a round baking dish. A cross made from the palm leaves blessed on the previous Palm Sunday is placed on top of the batter before it is baked. The bread is usually served with a sweet dish called Pesaha Paal, made from jaggery and coconut milk.

Significance

The preparation and consumption of Pesaha Appam is a solemn ritual for the Saint Thomas Christians. The head of the family cuts the appam, dips it in the Pesaha Paal, and serves it to the family members. This ritual is symbolic of the Last Supper where Jesus broke the bread and shared it with his disciples.

See also

• Maundy Thursday
• Passover Seder
• Unleavened bread
• Saint Thomas Christians

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