Fluffy Masala Idlis with Sambar Bliss

Fluffy Masala Idlis with Sambar Bliss

A delightful twist on the classic South Indian breakfast, this recipe combines flavorful masala-infused idlis with a hearty bowl of aromatic sambar. Perfect for starting your day or serving as a comforting meal!


Ingredients

For Masala Idlis:

  • 2 cups idli batter (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/2 cup finely grated carrots
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped bell peppers (any color)
  • 1/4 cup boiled peas
  • 1 tsp mustard seeds
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1/2 tsp red chili powder
  • 1 tbsp oil
  • 2-3 curry leaves, chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh coriander, finely chopped
  • Salt to taste

For Sambar Bliss:

  • 1/2 cup toor dal (pigeon pea lentils)
  • 1 medium onion, sliced
  • 1 medium tomato, chopped
  • 1/2 cup diced vegetables (carrots, drumsticks, brinjal, etc.)
  • 1-2 green chilies, slit
  • 1 tsp mustard seeds
  • 2-3 dried red chilies
  • 1/4 tsp asafoetida (hing)
  • 2 tsp sambar powder
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tbsp tamarind pulp
  • 1 tbsp oil
  • 2-3 curry leaves
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh coriander for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Masala Idlis

  1. Make the Masala Base:
    • Heat oil in a pan.
    • Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Add cumin seeds and curry leaves.
    • Stir in grated carrots, bell peppers, and peas. Sauté for 2-3 minutes.
    • Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
  2. Combine with Batter:
    • Cool the masala mixture and fold it into the idli batter along with chopped coriander.
  3. Steam the Idlis:
    • Grease idli molds and pour the masala batter into each cavity.
    • Steam for 10-12 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
    • Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sambar Bliss

  1. Cook the Dal:
    • Rinse the toor dal and pressure cook it with 2 cups of water, turmeric powder, and a pinch of salt until soft and mushy. Mash well.
  2. Cook the Vegetables:
    • In a pan, heat oil and add mustard seeds. Let them splutter.
    • Add dried red chilies, curry leaves, and asafoetida. Sauté for a few seconds.
    • Add onions, tomatoes, and vegetables. Cook until tender.
  3. Flavor the Sambar:
    • Add sambar powder, tamarind pulp, and cooked dal to the vegetable mixture. Mix well.
    • Adjust the consistency with water and salt. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.
    • Garnish with fresh coriander.

Step 3: Serve and Enjoy

  • Serve the hot Fluffy Masala Idlis with a generous ladle of Sambar Bliss on the side. Add a dollop of coconut chutney for an extra layer of flavor.

Tips:

  • For softer idlis, ensure the batter is well-fermented and airy.
  • Adjust the spice levels in the sambar to suit your taste.
  • You can prepare the sambar in advance for a quick meal pairing.

Savor the vibrant and wholesome flavors of Fluffy Masala Idlis with Sambar Bliss—a feast for both the palate and soul! 🌟

Read another recipe:
Upma recipe

Ignore tags:
Idli recipe
Idli breakfast recipe
Masala idli recipe

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