Chilli Idli Fry Recipe
Chilli Idli Fry Recipe: As a housewife, blogger, and food critic, I’m always on the lookout for dishes that are both delicious and easy to prepare. I still remember the first time I made Chilli Idli Fry; the aroma of the spices filled my kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation. The combination of soft idlis with the crispy, spicy coating created a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. My family was absolutely smitten, and it instantly became one of our favorite dishes. Today, I’m excited to share this beloved recipe with you and hope it becomes a cherished part of your culinary repertoire.
What is Chilli Idli Fry?
Chilli Idli Fry is a delectable Indo-Chinese fusion dish that brings together the soft, fluffy texture of South Indian idlis and the bold, spicy flavors of Chinese cuisine. It involves frying leftover idlis coated with a spicy batter and then tossing them in a flavorful sauce made from a blend of soy sauce, chili sauce, and other aromatic ingredients. The result is a mouthwatering dish that boasts a crispy exterior, soft interior, and a delightful medley of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors.
It is also known as Idli Manchurian, and is a popular street food in India. It is a crispy and spicy dish made with leftover idlis, which are small, round, fermented rice cakes. These idlis are cut into small cubes, fried until crisp, and then tossed in a flavorful sauce made with soy sauce, tomato ketchup, and chili sauce. The dish is garnished with chopped green onions and cilantro.
Variations of Chilli Idli Fry Recipe
There are several variations of Chilli Idli Fry that cater to different taste preferences and dietary needs. Some common variations include:
- Paneer Chilli Idli: Substitute idlis with paneer cubes for a protein-rich alternative.
- Schezwan Chilli Idli: Add Schezwan sauce to the recipe for an extra kick of heat and flavor.
- Veg Chilli Idli: Add more vegetables like bell peppers, baby corn, and mushrooms for a nutrient-dense meal.
- Air Fryer Chilli Idli: Use an air fryer instead of deep frying for a healthier version.
Nutrition Benefits – Chilli Idli Fry Recipe
Chilli Idli Fry is not only delicious but also offers several nutritional benefits. Idlis are made from fermented rice and urad dal, which provide a good source of complex carbohydrates, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals. The vegetables used in the dish add fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, while the spices offer anti-inflammatory properties. By opting for healthier cooking methods like air frying or baking, you can further enhance the nutritional profile of this dish.
Step by Step Chilli Idli Fry Recipe
Chilli Idli Fry Recipe
Ingredients
For the Idli:
- 8 idli
For the Batter:
- 4 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp all purpose flour / maida
- 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper powder
- Salt to taste
- Water as needed
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp Oil
- 1 Onions finely chopped
- 1 capsicum / bell peppers diced
- 2-3 green chillies slit
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp tomato ketchup
- 2 tbsp red sauce / red chilli sauce
- 1/2 tsp sugar
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp water
- 2-3 spring onion chopped (for garnishing)
Instructions
Pre-Cooking Preparation
- Preparing the idlis: Cut the leftover idlis into bite-sized cubes and set aside.
- Preparing the batter: In a mixing bowl, combine cornstarch, all-purpose flour, ginger-garlic paste, black pepper powder, and salt. Gradually add water to form a thick, smooth batter.
- Coating the idlis: Dip the idli cubes into the batter, ensuring they are evenly coated on all sides. Set aside
Cooking Steps
- Frying the idlis: Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully drop the batter-coated idli cubes into the oil. Fry them until they turn golden brown and crispy on all sides. Use a slotted spoon to remove the idlis from the oil and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Preparing the sauce: In a separate pan, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, diced bell peppers, and slit green chilies. Sauté the vegetables until they are slightly softened but still have a bit of crunch.
- Adding the aromatics: Add the ginger-garlic paste to the pan and cook for a minute or two, stirring frequently to prevent it from burning.
- Incorporating the sauces: Add the soy sauce, tomato ketchup, and red chili sauce to the pan. Mix well to combine the ingredients and let the mixture cook for a couple of minutes.
- Seasoning: Add sugar and salt to taste. Stir to combine the ingredients and let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Thickening the sauce: Slowly pour the cornstarch and water mixture into the pan while stirring continuously. Cook until the sauce thickens.
- Combining the idlis with the sauce: Add the fried idli cubes to the pan and gently toss them in the sauce, ensuring that each piece is evenly coated.
- Garnishing: Remove the pan from the heat and transfer the Chilli Idli Fry to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped spring onions.
Equipment Used for This Recipe
- Serving Plate
Notes & Tips
- It is essential to use leftover idlis for this recipe, as fresh idlis may become too soft and crumbly during frying.
- Feel free to adjust the spice level according to your taste preferences by increasing or reducing the number of green chilies or chili sauce used in the recipe.
- For a healthier version, you can air fry or bake the idli cubes instead of deep-frying. Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) or your oven to 220°C (425°F) and cook the idli cubes until they are crispy, approximately 12-15 minutes.
- You can adjust the amount of chili sauce used according to your preference for spiciness.
- It is important to note that the recipe may vary depending on personal preferences and variations. Additionally, the nutritional information provided is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
Nutrition Information (Note: Approximate)
FAQs – Chilli Idli Fry Recipe
What is the best type of idli to use for Chilli Idli Fry?
For Chilli Idli Fry, it’s best to use leftover idlis, as they tend to be firmer and hold their shape better during frying. Freshly made idlis are usually too soft and may become crumbly when coated in batter and fried.
Can I use other vegetables in Chilli Idli Fry?
Absolutely! You can customize the dish by adding different vegetables like baby corn, mushrooms, or even zucchini. Just make sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces and sauté them with the onions and bell peppers for a vibrant, nutrient-dense meal.
Is there a healthier alternative to frying the idli cubes?
Yes, you can opt for air frying or baking the idli cubes instead of deep-frying. Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) or your oven to 220°C (425°F), and cook the idli cubes for 12-15 minutes or until they are crispy.
How can I adjust the spice level in Chilli Idli Fry?
Feel free to modify the spice level according to your preferences by increasing or decreasing the number of green chilies or the amount of chili sauce used in the recipe. Remember that you can always add more heat, but it’s difficult to tone it down once it’s already in the sauce.
What can I serve with Chilli Idli Fry?
Chilli Idli Fry can be enjoyed on its own as an appetizer, or you can serve it with a side of steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying main course. Pair it with a cooling raita or a simple salad for a balanced meal.
Can I make Chilli Idli Fry in advance?
While it’s best to serve Chilli Idli Fry immediately after cooking to enjoy the crispy texture, you can prepare the idli cubes and sauce separately in advance. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce, add the idli cubes, and toss them together.
Can I use store-bought idlis for this recipe?
Yes, you can use store-bought idlis for Chilli Idli Fry. Just make sure they are not too fresh, as softer idlis may not hold up well during frying.
Is Chilli Idli Fry suitable for vegans?
Chilli Idli Fry is suitable for vegans, as it contains no animal-derived ingredients. However, make sure to check the labels of store-bought sauces, like soy sauce and tomato ketchup, for any hidden non-vegan ingredients.
How can I store leftover Chilli Idli Fry?
Leftover Chilli Idli Fry can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the dish in a pan over low heat and stir gently until warmed through. Note that the idlis may lose some of their crispiness during storage and reheating.
———————————————————————————————————
Foodcazt (www.foodcazt.com) is a Food Magazine. We help you discover food. Benefit from our Recipes, Reviews, Food Guides & Articles. We uncover trends, especially for Indian and Asian Cuisines. Please follow us to learn more. Uncover recipes. Learn about trends. Unearth unique restaurants. Find what moves you. Discover what inspires others. We uncover trends, especially for Indian Cuisine and Asian Cuisine.
It would mean the world to us, if you follow, like or subscribe on: YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram.
