Masala Idli Recipe (Using Leftover Idlis)

Masala idli is a popular Indian dish that is made by adding a flavorful spice mixture to regular idli. Idli itself is a traditional South Indian dish made from fermented rice and lentil batter, which is steamed to create soft and fluffy rice cakes.

To prepare masala idli, the idli cakes are crumbled or cut into small pieces and then cooked with a variety of spices and ingredients to enhance their flavor. The masala mixture typically includes ingredients such as onions, green chilies, ginger, mustard seeds, curry leaves, and various spices like turmeric, red chili powder, and garam masala.

The process of making masala idli involves sautéing the spices and vegetables in oil, adding the crumbled idli pieces, and tossing them together until well-coated. This allows the flavors to blend and infuse into the idli, resulting in a delicious and spicy dish.

Masala idli can be served as a breakfast item, evening snack, or even as a light meal. It is often enjoyed with coconut chutney, tomato chutney, or sambar, which complement the flavors of the spiced idli.

Overall, masala idli is a wonderful way to transform plain idlis into a flavorful and satisfying dish that is loved by many across India. It provides a unique twist to the traditional idli and adds a burst of spices and aromatics to the dish.

Ingredients for Masala Idli:

• Idli batter
• Oil
• Mustard seeds
• Curry leaves
• Onion (finely chopped)
• Green chilies (finely chopped)
• Ginger (finely grated)
• Turmeric powder
• Salt
• Red chili powder (optional)
• Garam masala powder
• Coriander leaves (chopped)
• Lemon juice

Instructions for Masala Idli:

1. Heat oil in a pan or skillet. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Then add curry leaves and sauté for a few seconds.
2. Add finely chopped onions, green chilies, and grated ginger to the pan. Sauté until the onions turn translucent.
3. Add a pinch of turmeric powder, salt to taste, and red chili powder (if desired). Mix well.
4. Crumble the idlis into small pieces and add them to the pan. Gently toss everything together, ensuring the masala mixture coats the idli pieces evenly.
5. Sprinkle garam masala powder over the mixture and mix well. Cook for a few minutes until the idli pieces are heated through.
6. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the masala idli for added flavor.
7. Serve hot as a snack or breakfast option. Masala idli tastes great on its own or with coconut chutney, tomato chutney, or sambar.

Note: You can also add other vegetables like capsicum, carrots, or peas to the masala idli for more variety and nutrition. Additionally, adjust the spices and seasonings according to your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

1. Chutneys: Masala idli pairs well with different types of chutneys. Coconut chutney, tomato chutney, mint chutney, or coriander chutney are popular choices. You can serve a variety of chutneys on the side or drizzle them over the idlis for added flavor.
2. Sambar: Masala idli tastes delicious when served with sambar, which is a lentil-based vegetable stew. The tangy and spicy flavors of sambar complement the spiced idli well. Pour some sambar over the idlis or serve it on the side for dipping.
3. Yogurt: Serve masala idli with a side of fresh yogurt or raita. The cool and creamy yogurt provides a refreshing contrast to the spiciness of the idlis.
4. Pickles: Indian pickles, such as mango pickle, lime pickle, or mixed vegetable pickle, add a tangy and spicy element to the masala idli. Serve a small portion of pickles on the side for those who enjoy a bit of extra heat and flavor.
5. Garnishes: Sprinkle some freshly chopped coriander leaves (cilantro) on top of the masala idli before serving. It adds a touch of freshness and color to the dish.
6. Accompaniments: Masala idli can be enjoyed on its own as a snack or light meal. However, if you prefer a heartier meal, you can serve it alongside other South Indian dishes like dosa, uttapam, or vada.

Tips and Variations

Tips:

1. Use fresh and good quality idli batter for best results. The batter should be fermented well and have a light and fluffy texture.
2. While making the masala mixture, ensure that the onions and vegetables are cooked well, but not overcooked. They should be soft and slightly caramelized, but still retain their crunch and texture.
3. Adjust the spice levels and seasonings to your taste preferences. If you like it spicy, add more green chilies or red chili powder. You can also add other spices like cumin powder, coriander powder, or fennel seeds for added flavor.
4. Adding a dash of lemon juice at the end gives a nice tangy flavor to the masala idli.

Variations:

1. Vegetable Masala Idli: Add your favorite vegetables like capsicum, carrots, peas, or corn to the masala mixture to make it more nutritious and flavorful.
2. Cheesy: Add grated cheese to the masala mixture and toss it with the idlis for a cheesy twist.
3. Masala Idli Fry: Cut the masala idlis into bite-sized pieces and shallow fry them until crispy. It makes for a delicious and crispy snack.
4. Masala Pod: Coat the idlis with a dry spice mixture made from roasted lentils, sesame seeds, and spices like chili powder, cumin, and coriander powder. It gives a crunchy and flavorful texture to the idlis.
5. Sweet Masala: Make a sweet version of masala idli by adding jaggery, grated coconut, and cardamom powder to the idli batter. Steam and serve it with ghee or coconut milk for a tasty dessert option.

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