Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Before we embark on our culinary adventure, let’s gather all the ingredients required for this delightful masala idli. You’ll need idli batter, mustard seeds, cumin seeds, asafoetida (hing), green chilies, curry leaves, ginger, bell pepper, carrots, green peas, salt, lemon juice, and cilantro. Ensure all your ingredients are fresh and readily available before you begin.
Step 2: Tempering the Spices
To kickstart the preparation of masala idli, heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Let them splutter, releasing their aromatic flavors into the oil. Next, sprinkle a pinch of asafoetida (hing) for added depth of flavor. This tempering process infuses the oil with the essence of spices, laying the foundation for our flavorful masala.
Step 3: Adding Aromatics and Veggies
Now, it’s time to elevate the flavors further by incorporating aromatic ingredients and vibrant veggies into our masala idli. Add finely chopped green chilies, curry leaves, and grated ginger to the pan. Sauté them for a minute until they become fragrant. Then, toss in bell peppers, carrots, and green peas. Stir-fry the veggies until they turn tender yet retain their crunchiness. The medley of aromatics and veggies adds a burst of color, texture, and nutrients to our dish, making it both visually appealing and wholesome.
Step 4: Mixing in the Idlis
Once the veggies are cooked to perfection, it’s time to introduce our star ingredient – the idlis. Cut the idlis into bite-sized pieces and gently fold them into the aromatic vegetable mixture. Ensure each idli piece is coated evenly with the flavorful masala. Allow the idlis to simmer in the masala for a couple of minutes, allowing them to absorb the flavors and become slightly crisp around the edges.
Step 5: Seasoning and Garnishing
No dish is complete without the perfect balance of seasoning and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Season the masala idli with salt according to taste and a generous squeeze of lemon juice for a refreshing zing. Garnish the dish with freshly chopped cilantro leaves, adding a pop of color and a burst of freshness to the final presentation.
Step 6: Serving the Masala Idli
Our masala idli is now ready to be served piping hot. Transfer the aromatic concoction to a serving plate and relish it as is or pair it with a side of coconut chutney or tangy tomato chutney for an extra flavor boost. Masala idli makes for a wholesome and satisfying meal that’s sure to please both the palate and the soul.
Tips for Perfect Masala Idli
For a healthier twist, you can steam the idlis using a combination of rice and lentils or opt for instant idli mix available in the market. Customize the masala according to your preference by adding or omitting veggies as per availability and taste. Ensure the idlis are not too soft but firm enough to hold their shape when mixed with the masala. Experiment with different tempering spices like fenugreek seeds, fennel seeds, or dried red chilies for a unique flavor profile.
Variations of Masala Idli Recipe
Paneer Masala Idli: Add cubed paneer pieces along with the veggies for a protein-packed version of masala idli. Podi Masala Idli: Toss the idlis in a spicy South Indian podi (powder) mixture for an extra kick of flavor. Cheese Masala Idli: Sprinkle grated cheese on top of the masala idli before serving for a gooey, indulgent twist.
Benefits of Masala Idli
Rich in nutrients: Masala idli is packed with essential nutrients from the veggies, making it a wholesome meal option. Balanced flavors: The combination of spices and aromatics in masala idli stimulates the senses and satisfies the craving for a flavorful meal. Easy digestion: Idlis are steamed, making them light on the stomach and easy to digest, ideal for breakfast or a light dinner option.
Q: Can I make masala idli with leftover idlis?
A: Absolutely! Leftover idlis work perfectly for making masala idli. Simply cut them into pieces and follow the recipe from step 3 onwards.
Q: Can I prepare the masala in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare the masala ahead of time and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, reheat the masala and mix it with freshly steamed idlis.
Q: Can I skip certain veggies in the masala?
A: Of course! Feel free to customize the masala according to your preference by omitting or substituting veggies as per your liking.
Other Recipes on Manjula’s Kitchen
If you’re looking to explore more Indian recipes, appetizers, beverages, and desserts, be sure to check out the following links on Manjula’s Kitchen. Here are some links to recipes on Manjula’s Kitchen official website: khaman (besan) dhokla, rasgulla, gobi (cauliflower) manchurian, aloo tikki (potato patties), malai koftai. These recipes should offer you a flavorful experience straight from Manjula’s Kitchen.
I really like Masala idli. Thank you for telling this recipe.
Luv to try ur receipes . Pls any other alternative of eno
Hi Manjula:
What if I do not have ENO? What can I substitute and how much?
Thanks.
It’s really good Aunty . My husbands like this especially with vegetables. He loves so much. Thanks so much. Love
I really like your recipes and I have learned how to make sweets from you.I have a request please show how to make veg sweet corn soup from fresh corn
I am leaving in london but due to cold weather fermentation is not possible for idly so how shall i make please reply thanks
Divyesh, cover the pot with blanket
Hi,awesome recepie quick n seems to yummy.tnx a lot
I luvd it alot..waz easy nd quick…luvly
Puja, thank you
So wonderful your every recipes
Krishna, Thank you, I appreciate the comment
Manjulaji hi I follow your blog regular ly I just want the know how to prepare sweet corn samosa plz answer
Aparna, Sorry I have never tried
Thanks for the wonderful recipe. I tried it and it turned out awesome. Family enjoyed thoroughly. 10 on 10 for this mouth watering delicacy which is equally appealing to the eyes
Very creative. I am going to try it.
Wow!
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