Cheesy Vegetable Uttapam Treat
A fusion of crispy, savory South Indian uttapam topped with a melty layer of cheese and vibrant vegetables, this Cheesy Vegetable Uttapam is a treat for the taste buds. It’s a perfect breakfast, brunch, or snack option that’s both delicious and satisfying.
Ingredients (Makes 4 Uttapams)
For the Uttapam Batter:
- 1 cup rice
- 1/2 cup urad dal (split black gram)
- 1/4 cup poha (flattened rice)
- 1/2 tsp fenugreek seeds (optional)
- Salt to taste
- Water, as needed
- Oil or ghee for cooking
For the Vegetable Toppings:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1/2 tomato, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup grated carrots
- 1/4 cup corn kernels (optional)
- 1/4 cup peas (optional)
- 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
- Salt to taste
For the Cheese Topping:
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or a mix of mozzarella and cheddar)
- 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tbsp fresh coriander, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Uttapam Batter
- Soak and Grind: Soak rice, urad dal, and fenugreek seeds in water for 4-6 hours or overnight. Add poha in the last hour of soaking. Drain the soaked ingredients and grind them to a smooth batter using a little water. The batter should be thick but spreadable.
- Ferment the Batter: Allow the batter to ferment in a warm place for 8-12 hours or until it has doubled in size. Add salt and stir gently before using.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetable Toppings
- Prepare the Veggies: In a bowl, combine the chopped onions, bell pepper, tomatoes, grated carrots, and peas or corn (if using). Add cumin seeds and a pinch of salt. Mix well and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Uttapams
- Heat the Tawa: Heat a non-stick tawa or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease the surface with oil or ghee.
- Pour the Batter: Take a ladle of the fermented batter and pour it onto the hot tawa, spreading it into a thick, round pancake shape.
- Add the Vegetable Toppings: Quickly sprinkle the prepared vegetable mixture evenly over the top of the batter. Gently press them down with a spatula to ensure they stick.
- Cook the Uttapam: Drizzle a little oil around the edges of the uttapam. Cover the pan with a lid and cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the bottom to crisp up while the vegetables soften.
- Add the Cheese: After 3-4 minutes, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese on top of the vegetable mixture. Cover and cook for another 2-3 minutes or until the cheese melts and the uttapam is golden brown.
Step 4: Serve the Cheesy Vegetable Uttapam
- Plate and Garnish: Once the cheese is melted and the uttapam is cooked through, transfer it to a plate. Garnish with fresh coriander and a sprinkle of chili flakes if desired.
- Serve: Serve the Cheesy Vegetable Uttapam Treat hot with coconut chutney and sambar on the side.
Enjoy!
- Relish your Cheesy Vegetable Uttapam Treat—a perfect blend of crispy, cheesy goodness with the fresh crunch of veggies! It’s a fun twist on the traditional uttapam, making it an irresistible option for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Tips:
- You can use any cheese of your choice, but mozzarella works best for that gooey, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Experiment with different vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for added flavor.
- If you prefer a spicier version, add finely chopped green chilies to the vegetable mixture or sprinkle chili powder on top before serving.
This Cheesy Vegetable Uttapam Treat is sure to become a favorite for cheese lovers and anyone who enjoys a flavorful twist on a classic dish! 🌟
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