Ingredients:
- 2 cups leftover idlis, crumbled or chopped into small pieces
- 1 tbsp oil or ghee
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- 1 tsp urad dal (split black gram)
- 1 tsp chana dal (split bengal gram)
- 1-2 green chilies, finely chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1-2 dried red chilies, broken (optional)
- A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
- 8-10 curry leaves
- 1/4 cup grated carrot (optional)
- 1/4 cup peas or chopped beans (optional)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare Idlis: Crumble or chop leftover idlis into small bite-sized pieces and keep aside.
2. Tempering: Heat oil or ghee in a pan. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Add urad dal and chana dal, and fry till golden brown.
3. Add Aromatics: Add asafoetida, chopped green chilies, dried red chilies, and curry leaves. Sauté for a few seconds.
4. Sauté Veggies: Add chopped onions and sauté till they turn translucent. Add grated carrot, peas, or beans if using, and cook for 3-4 minutes until veggies are slightly tender.
5. Add Idli Pieces: Add the crumbled idlis and salt to taste. Mix gently to combine all ingredients. Cook on low heat for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, so the idli pieces absorb the flavors.
6. Finish: Turn off the heat, add lemon juice if desired, and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
7. Serve: Serve hot as a quick breakfast or snack.
Tips for Perfect Idli Upma
- Use slightly dry leftover idlis for better texture; fresh idlis can become mushy.
- Add veggies of your choice to make it more nutritious.
- Don’t over-stir to keep the idli pieces intact.
- Adjust the chili and lemon juice as per your taste preference.
- You can add grated coconut for an extra flavor boost.
Health Benefits of Idli Upma
- Utilizes Leftovers: A great way to reduce food waste by transforming leftover idlis into a tasty new dish.
- Balanced Nutrition: Combines carbs from idli with proteins from dals and fiber from added veggies.
- Easy to Digest: Light and soft, ideal for breakfast or a light meal.
- Gluten-Free: Idlis made from rice and urad dal are naturally gluten-free.
- Low in Fat: Minimal oil used, making it a healthy option.
- Rich in Fiber & Protein: Added dals and veggies increase fiber and protein content, aiding digestion and satiety.
Idli upma is a quick, nutritious, and delicious way to reinvent leftover idlis into a flavorful dish.
Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.
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